Saturday, October 31, 2009

So, here’s a visual recap of what I’ve been up to over the past two weeks.

As I mentioned, I was sick. But that didn’t stop me from going to an incredibly boring concert with Barış! Of course, I only realized that afterward… I have to say, those were some truly depressing days. But at least we went out for an amazing meal after the concert, at my new favorite restaurant :) Sitting on the floor and everything…

Last week, it was suddenly my roommate’s birthday… Suddenly, because I had no idea, and well, what can I say… I also had no idea that so many relatives could fit into our apartment! Maybe I still haven’t fully processed the shock, but I’m working on it.

His “girlfriend” (a model from Estonia) had to be locked in my room because, apparently, the relationship isn’t exactly official. No comment. Luckily, it was only a short visit—but one that left behind mountains of food (parents… at least they’re good for something ^^). Cake, börek, baklava… everything the heart desires!

To top it all off, the next day, my other roommate received a huge box of fresh fruit and vegetables from his hometown. I think we’ve officially set the record for students with the fullest fridge.

PATATES GECESİ (Potato Night)

Last week was also the traditional “Patates Gecesi” (Potato Night) hosted by the Paragliding Club. This means: 50 people crammed into a tiny room filled with expensive equipment, devouring 5-10 kg of fries with Efes beer and Coke. No idea who came up with this… but it was definitely entertaining :D

When things got a little too cozy, we took the party outside under the open sky...

Does anyone else notice that all I do here is eat?! Okay, time for something different:

The Student Atelier – My Evening Escape from the Grey Student Routine (whatever that is)

The atelier is a place where you can come and go as you please and do whatever creative thing you feel like. A dream for anyone with an artistic side!

Right now, I’m learning how to use the potter’s wheel, which is way harder than it looks… but so much fun! :D And as the perfect housewife I will one day become (please don’t take me seriously), I will proudly produce my own porcelain! :D

Okay, quickly grabbing a fresh tea… And Back to Food :D

Cooking lessons with Zeynep—so delicious! We just made Dolma (stuffed vegetables)… :P I know Zeynep from paragliding, and we quickly realized we’re pretty similar. Let’s just say: anti-party people unite! Oh, and she has a piano!

Okay, I admit, it’s a bit out of tune, and my leg doesn’t fit properly between the pedals and keyboard because it’s too long—uh, I mean, the piano is too small. But as long as I can play, I don’t care.

She even asked if I wanted to move in with her… and honestly, considering that my roommates’ smoking is killing my bulbus olfactorius, I’m really tempted. But I need to think about it… she did mention that scorpions occasionally wander through the apartment. :-|

That’s pretty much all that’s been happening… except for yesterday. Cumhuriyet Bayramı (Republic Day) and all that.

I have to say, I really like the Turks and their obsession with red and white flags (merah-putih!). Here’s a little challenge: count the flags in this picture!

Sorry about the quality… if you remember: Camera 1 was left at the atelier, Camera 2 died under the bridge (see below), and that left me with only Door #3: my phone camera :(

This is the Bosphorus Bridge up close. A huuuge thing! It doesn’t really come across in the photos… so I guess you’ll just have to come see it for yourself!

P.S. I think nothing is standing in the way of my plan to gain 10 kilos… :) Görüşürüz!