Independence Day

Today is Independence Day here!  The kids are out of school and Justin only went into the office for his language lesson.  We have been looking forward to the fireworks over the Bosphorus for a few days now.  So, this afternoon, when it clouded up and began to rain Noah, Callie, and I cried.  The weather, we are learning, changes so quickly here.  Easy come, easy go.  By 6 or so the rain was gone and we set out for the very tall hill (not quite a mountain) in our part of the city.  So did half of the asian side!  It was busy and confusing but wonderful.  At the top of the hill there is lovely park with lots of big old trees with little white lights up in the branches, and tables with little tea stools.  The best thing by far about this place is the view.  It is amazing!  You can see two continents from there.  The city lights, the water, the skyscrapers, the mosques.... it is absolutely beautiful!  The big bridges had special lights on them to make them red.  Patriotic music was playing and there was a festive attitude despite the damp air.  People here are far more patriotic than any other nationality I've ever run into.  The fireworks were beautiful.  They were shot off along the water from several locations on both sides as well as from one of the big bridges!  Fantastic.  Next year we may venture down near the water.  I love to be "under" fireworks.  You really get the awe factor!  Looking down on them was pretty, but not heart-stopping.

Also, today Noah a a patriotic program at his school.  We did not know what to expect, but sort of thought it would be "bad".  We were right.  It was out in the baçe (the black-top area within the school walls were the kids have recess and line up each day before school).  The kids were in a semi-circle, lined up with their classes- including the middle school students that use the school building in the morning (Noah goes to school from 12:50 to 6:00).  Lots of kids, families, and flags!  EACH class had prepared something to celebrate independence day- songs, readings, skits, etc.  So, it was long and boring.  But I am glad we went.  I am happy for any taste of the culture that I can get!  Luckily, Noah did not have to preform.  His teacher had selected 5 students to recite something- who knows what it was.  Obviously, he was not chosen!!