Shop till ya drop

I could have bought that Narzalik to ward off negative energy. It's literally on everything, from doormats and cigarette lighters, to earrings and denim. I bought the latter in the form of jeans, to ward off the shopping bug. Ok we bought a Narzalik too, which we'll hang above the front door.

Last stop Istanbul

Back in Istanbul for a few days before we head back West. The weather is pleasant. Got some rain our first night, but now the showers are sun filled. Fall colors are all about, oh and the 15 million people are still here. Portland will feel like a ghost town.

Turkish Airlines inflight cuisine

Kidney beans in olive oil, chicken sandwich, and almond cake. Hands down, best meals at 34000 ft.

Mustafa

Pilot of our hot air balloon, marriage officiant, translator, photographer,and a great personality to boot. Mustafa is one cool dude.

The beautiful couple

Naomi's brother, Andrew and his bride, Melanie.

Balloons

From inches above ground to above the clouds, this ride had it all!

Pre wedding fun

Ever reclined on pillows and rugs outside while enjoying a belly dancing performance? This was my first time, and can you say "surreal"?!

THIS IS CAPPADOCCIA

Calling this place surreal would be an understatement. The landscape is straight out of a star wars set. Tuscan raiders wouldn't be out of place here. However, the fact is the valleys were home to thousands of Christians hiding from persecution in the 10th century. They carved out dwellings in the soft volcanic rock. The remains of these lofty spaces are still visible today.