Abundance

Our final day in Istanbul. After another rooftop terrace breakfast, we spent the morning at the Grand Bazaar. It was as expansive as I’d imagined, and I loved the warrens of tiny antique shops.

We made our way over to Suleymaniye Mosque, which was impressive but not as compelling as Rüstem Paşa a couple of days prior – Suleymaniye was more crowded and had more modern accoutrements, like video displays (though I did like this one).

The grounds outside were a lovely place to wander and just sit in the sun. I spent an hour or so out there, mostly resting against the wall opposite the mosque.

When I was younger, I struggled very much with travel, due in large part to a combination of anemia, anxiety, and chronic sleep deprivation. My early trips with K were often a strain, and I spent a lot of time in hotels and otherwise holed up while she adventured. Things are much easier these days. Having such great traveling companions helps.

Dee was having a rough time, so she spent some time with me at the mosque while the others went on ahead. We had a late lunch on a rooftop nearby

then hurried back to catch the van to the airport. Kathy was waiting with yet another cat (showing it mouse videos).

Onward to Urgench and Khiva!