August 30, 2007 - page 3

Something strange however, happened the first day we were let loose in the city on our own.  A group of girls went shopping and bought food in the grocery store to make dinner. We were able to use the Turkish we had learned to communicate with the salesmen and navigate around the city. I felt accomplished and more than a tourist walking the streets. The next week came and went by so fast, but I actually started enjoying myself. Although my Southern accent still prohibits correct pronunciation, I'm able to order

in restaurants using Turkish and bargain at the Grand Bazaar.

Here I am in Istanbul, finally over jetlag and accustomed to the food, loving every minute of it. I know that you weren't expecting this sentiment at the end of this journal entry, but I admit that first impressions are not always accurate. I was fooled by the dingy buildings surrounding Galata Tower but once I gave the city a second chance, this unfriendly stranger warmed into a familiar face. 

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