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Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Postcard from Istanbul (Where the Sun and Water Were Born)

If one had but a single glance to give the world,
one should gaze on Istanbul.
-Alphonse de Lamartine

It's another world here. A place where, I'm sure, the sun and water were both born... the salt to cut out shores and seas and the sun to bleach stone and bake rock.

Istanbul is a land of sultans and crusaders. Of emperors and rulers. You feel that as you walk and ride the boats here. (The city forms a divide between Europe and Asia; I had coffee today on the Europe side and I'll sleep tonight in Asia.) But regardless of which continent your gait straddles, the sun bakes an awareness of the ancient into the soles of your feet - no matter where you walk. Today, on board a jaunt between the continents, the salty Black Sea air sprinkled me with a sense of history's mysteries. This place has a way of getting to you. It's fearfully and wonderfully romantic.

I'm on to the palaces and spectacular mosques and churches next. After that, the spice markets and Grand Bazaar. Will send you another blog postcard as I'm able.

Sending my love from half a world away,
Brin

12 comments:

  1. Brin, have a wonderful, safe and enjoyable time.

    Don't forget to come back home though :)

    Blessings,

    Sher

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  2. Can't wait to experience Istanbul through your sharp lens and reverent words.

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  3. How lovely!

    I do see how one's soul can heal in such a place.

    Looking forward to seeing more pictures.

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  4. Wow Brin,

    It really is gorgeous there. How did I have NO IDEA??!! Well, it will have to be on my list of "must see's" someday. :O)

    Enjoy the journey. So happy you are sharing the beauty with us. Happy Travels!!

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  5. Thanks for the postcard, Brin. I've been checking in to see if you've left a note. It's so kind of you to share some of your experience with us. A little excitement for this stay at home mommy.

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  6. I love what you have to say. I want to go to Istanbul and I've never ever even thought of it before now! How are the eyelashes weathering all of the fun?

    (Kat@theburbblog.com)

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  7. Your photos and your prose transport me. Thank you for sharing. Can't wait to hear more.

    Mayberry Magpie
    www.mayberrymagpie.com

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  8. Your trip to Istanbul sounds delightful...you would create a delight if none existed, but since it does, you will do it justice. I love reading anything you write!

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  9. What fun Brin!.. wishing you a safe and fun time for the rest of your stay in Istanbul!

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  10. Oh, how I"ve missed your way with words, as I check in daily to see if you've had time for a post, so glad you did and thanks for sharing your journeys with us. We miss you!!

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  11. Ohhhh (BIG Sighhh) Its beautiful. Thank you for sharing it with us.

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  12. I visited Istanbul from the States a month ago and every word you write, every picture you show keeps this fantastic city and lovely country at the front of my thoughts. Thanks.

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