Tolga and I are on holiday in Kusdasi. We have both been relishing the time. It was about a year ago that we came on borrowed money for his brother's wedding, and now - while things seem they will always be tight financially - I'm also finding myself appreciating everything more.
We are swimming and gardening everyday. The sea is warm and clear. Our garden is dry and overgrown. We bought boogie boards in Ankara and on windy days we play in the waves, and on calm days we float and snorkel. At home, my Yenge (aka "the manager") is visiting, as well as an overweight and balding cousin. The cousin, I was informed, has psychological problems. She also married a cousin. I'm not sure which came first - but apparently she's doing well now and she is happy here.
I hadn't realized how the sea life was such a relief from the city. In Ankara we just worked and came home and mostly ran errands on the weekend. When Tolga's parents came, there was nothing for them to do but watch TV all day. But here, most of the day is spent on the balcony. Baba slowly works his way around the garden. A little bit everyday. Weeding here. Planting there. The yard is still wild looking, especially since Baba has seemingly planted every possible floral and fauna available in our yard. The community also outlawed gardens this year to conserve water. So, Baba set up a secret garden that's tucked just far enough away that no one will notice.
When we arrived, Baba pulled out a magazine he'd been holding onto to show Tolga a machine he wanted to get. Tolga's parents don't ask for much, and Tolga is happy when they do, so we went out that day to buy Baba an electric grinding stone. He's been sharpening knives and tools ever since.
Tolga's youngest brother stops by most days, and occasionally brings his 9-month pregnant wife who is hobbling around on crutches from a broken ankle. His middle brother just came home today - he was working/living in a nearby city for a new job. My favorite time is seeing the three brothers together - they are each others strong support.
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