Beach Morning

July 24 2013

We needed a small break from the routine of things that normally go on in our week.  So Wednesday morning, why not head to the beach, its only 15 minutes away, the sun is shining...........so we did.

The water was a little cold.  

Noah got a new float to help him swim, and he loved it.  

It has a pirate ship on it, that may be why he likes it so much.

Luke was content to stay on the sand. 

The castle across the water we visited a couple of weeks ago.

It wasn't very crowded. 

Cheesing with Momma.

Finally Luke wanted part of the water action. 

boats were just achored out on the Bosphorus.

Luke decided to swim a little.  I have the cutest video.

But in the end the sand won out, the wind was blowing so after both boys found out if they were in the water for long, and then got out, they would freeze from the wind blown/wet body. They just soaked up sun and were content digging. 

Unexpected visit

July 21 2013

Our sweet friend Brittini came to town.  

So we of course had to meet up with her and spend a little time catching up. 

We had a great excuse to go eat at this place I have been wanting to try. 

And introduce her to Mihlama.  This is my favorite Turkish food.  

A quick pic between rangling the boys at the dinner table.

The clouds rolling in on the Bosphorus.

Little memories

July 15 2013

Luke has been a little sick, stomach issues.  And well we always spoil our boys extra when they are sick.  Today I relished the moment just rocking my baby boy.  Can't believe that God has blessed us with another baby on the way.  

My sweet boy passed out at nap time.  

1st boat ride/castle

July 12 2013

We took the boys on their 1st boat ride.  And they loved it.  

Can you tell?  Look at that smile.

Luke was just watching everything. 

I just love the colorful buildings.

Me and Noah sunning 

Just a pretty little boat.

When we got off here are some of the first things we saw at the port.

Cats everywhere.

Gorgeous stained glass panels.

We got a ride up to the castle, a man (Mehmet) took us and the boys in his car.  And once I realized how far uphill I would have had to walk, I was very thankful for the kindness.

Here is the left side.

Here is the right side.  This is where the 3rd Bridge is to be built joining the to continents. 

Asia and Europe. 

The castle tower.

Can you see my little family?

There they are.

Beautiful stone, from the 1200's.

There are several Crosses embedded in the wall.

We had some followers as we went along the path.

The view looking up. 

At one of the entrances, you can no longer go into the inner court.

The view looking down.

A pretty archway leading to town. 

A little friend along the way.

 Just stopping for a moment to swing. 

Once we were in town.  There are cute little vacation homes.

And cute little shops...........with pinnochios.

 Going home. 

It was a fun day and just long enough for the boys to keep their interest, but just short enough for us to keep our wits about us.