Trip to Turkey

We have always planned on taking the boys to Turkey to show them where Omer grew up but had wanted to wait until Aiden was older. But sometimes life presents itself and you have to go. First, the university where Omer's grandfather worked was holding a huge celebration for his what would have been 100 birthday. And second, the house where Omer lived for his first five years and then every summer after until college is going to be sold. So two perfect reasons to make the long trip.

I would like to not that this was the first plane ride for both boys and also their first intercontinental travel. We kept the latter in mind when they were being slightly difficult; a lot more leeway. I would also like to mention that when I was 23 this was my very first plane ride and intercontinental trip as well...these boys are lucky. 

Overall the trip went smoothly and the majority of us had a great time. We left here at 11:30 pm to make a very long journey to Buyukada, one of the Princes' Islands outside of Istanbul. They both did great for having to stay up way past their bedtimes. Aiden was so tired that he fell asleep on the plane before we even took off. Owen was fascinated with the take off and then after it settled so did he and slept. Both boys slept pretty much the whole 10 hours plan ride. Omer and I wish we could say the same. Then we got in a cab from the airport, to a ferry, to a private boat, to the dock of the house. Long journey! 

We stayed on the island the majority of the time, and we are so happy we did. The kids loved swimming in the sea, playing in the sand, going on lizard hunts, fishing for sea creatures and playing with their toys. They also loved riding in the horse carriages, which is the only way other than bike or walk around the island. We all enjoyed the deliciously light and fresh ice cream; I think every day. 

We knew with Aiden's age that he would not take much from the trip or even remember a lot of it, but I will say he tried to make the best of it. He was slightly grumpy and homesick good chunks of the day, but when he wasn't he loved playing in the beach area with trucks and monsters. And he would jump off the dock and swim in the sea giggling the whole time. Sadly and pretty funny, when we asked Aiden what his favorite part of the trip was, he responded nicely "Going Home!" But don't let that fool you, he did a great time. 

Owen got a lot more from the trip and really enjoyed the adventure. He told us that his favorite parts were swimming in the sea, hunting for lizards and finding sea stars. And that is about all he did all day every day...well a little Lego's in there too. He was always excited to head down to the water and went right to jumping and swimming. He even swam out and touched one of the boats. Omer loved it because he was able to show Owen all the cool stuff he used to do as a kid; Owen loved it. 

We headed into the city to see some museums one day. We originally had planned to go two days but one day was enough. So much hotter and crowded (obviously) in the city and although they really did love Tokapi museum they were done and ready to go swim after a couple hours. They were amazed by the mummies and tombs the most but also loved seeing all the ancient weapons. 

Omer and his parents headed into the city for a whole day to celebrate Emre's dad. From what I hear it was an amazing celebration of an stellar man. He did a lot for Istanbul and was appreciated by many. They had a wonderful time remembering and honoring him. While me and the boys stayed on the island and swam and played all day. 

One night Omer and I headed to dinner to a very popular and secluded place. As all the islands are, it is only accessible by boat. The restaurant sends a boat to your dock and then takes you to the restaurant. The place is gorgeous and delicious food. It is on a hillside that looks over the sea and spectacular city views. It was a cool experience I am sure we won't be able to replicate. 

The trip was also meant for Omer to see some of his childhood friends and he really enjoyed catching up and reminiscing with them. Omer also wanted to get one more stay at his childhood home and soak it all in. I think he accomplished that too. 

The trip back went super smoothly too. We were dreading it more because it is 10.5 hours and we left at 1:00 pm so they were not tired. But I have to say I think this flight was better. The kids did awesome, watched movies, played games, colored, etc, and even napped. And for me I was not exhausted and ready to sleep so much easier on my system; we even got to watch our own movie. 

It was an amazing experience to take the kids to Turkey and one I hope all of us remember. 

Now sit back and enjoy all 333 pictures (started out at 570)