I'm here!!!!

I made it!

I have had some fun interesting experiences so far. one of the days we got to visit the famous blue mosque and hagia sophia. They are right next to each other and symbols of the city. I loved looking at history, and just learning more so I can better pray for the people here.

we did have one downfall. This city is so big, and there are so many people. one of the girls went to the bathroom, and I am not sure anyone knew. We left and were touring around, and when we were counting to see if we had everyone so we could move on to the next stop we realized she was missing. It had been over an hour since anyone had seen her. We quickly retraced our steps and found her in front of the restaurant we had lunch at. Praise God she was ok, and stayed put! It was scary, but we realized we needed to have a better grasp of the buddy system, and really watch out for each other.

a guy on the street making some sort of candy

the work in progress - the yellow is the plaster that covered the beautiful mosaics underneath it.

one of the famous beautiful mosaics that was plastered over when it was turned into a mosque

The hagia sophia - a famous church that was made into a mosque, but is now a museum

The famous blue mosque and hagia sophia

The blue mosque is a very large and beautiful mosques that is part of the European skyline of Istanbul

Beautiful detail inside

Julie, who is leading with me, and her little trooper! Ellie has been so good this whole trip so far!

The large racks of "doner" meat. one is lamb the other is chicken. They rotate slowly and cook by flame on one side. The meat is shaved off to make sandwiches that are common everywhere, you can find them from $2-$7 wrapped in a large tortilla, pita or on a baguette.

a cool shot I was able to get in a break in the crowd

I have no idea what the sign says

the city skyline

the blue mosque and the hagia sophia from the ferry boat traveling between Asia and Europe. I am living in Asia, but most of the touristy places are in Europe