...I will fill you in here on what its all about.
The Turkish alphabet has 8 vowels (A E I İ O Ö U Ü ) and 21 consonants. The letters Q,W and X do not exist in Turkish. Most letters are pronounced pretty much as you would expect, but some are not. Once you know the pronouciation of all letters though, it is pretty easy to pronounce any word you see or to spell (yay!) any word one hears -unless it is of an unworldly length. The following letters require explanation:
Cc = "J" as in "judge" ( can= life, soul, pronounced like "John" )
Çç = "ch" as in "church"( çay= tea, pronounced "chay", rhymes with "buy" )
Ğ ( yumuşak ge [soft g] Never appears as the first letter in a word; essentially silent; sometimes lengthens preceding vowel; (dag =mountain, pronounced daa)
lı( undotted "i" ) "u" as in "radium" or "i" as in "cousin" (ışık =ligth, ırmak = river )
İi( dotted "i" ) ="i" as in "sit" ( bir = one, pronounced like "beer" )
Öö German "ö" as in "König" or French "eu" as in "peur"( göl = lake, rhymes with furl)
Şş="sh"as in "ship" (şey = thing, pronounced "shey" , rhymes with "hay")
Üü German "ü" as in "für" or French "u" as in "tu" (gül = rose)
The Ö and Ü I am always getting wrong, and along with the ğ are probably the hardest letters in this language. I have yet to be understood when I try to say the word çöp, meaning trash.
Turkish belongs to the Turkic branch of the Altaic language family. Turkish, the language of modern Turkey, is spoken by about 60 million people. Turkish formerly used the same alphabet as Arabic, but has been written in the Latin alphabet since 1928.
As an Altaic language, Turkish has virtually nothing in common with English or other Indo-European languages except for some loan words.
Turkish grammar is extremely complex- but has rare exceptions. It has multiple tenses, I believe this is all of them- past, reported past, present progressive, future, past present, and geniş zamana (english name, I dont know). The word order is SOV- subject, object, verb. In English 'I went to the sea' but in turkish it would be 'I sea to went' or 'Ben denize gittim'.
Two Identifying features of Turkish : (1) vowel harmony (vowels within a word follow certain patterns, matching each others sounds in a rythmn) and (2) agglutination (addition suffixes to words.)
So in Turkish often instead of saying a phrase, you have one root with multiple suffixes attached to create one word saying the same thing it would take multiple words in English to say.
For example- hatırlayacaksam means 'İf I can remember later'.
With the use of suffixes, also often, extremely long words are created. For example- the longest word in Turkish-
muvaffakiyetsizleştiricileştiriveremeyebileceklerimizdenmişsinizcesine.
Yeah. THATS A WORD. It means Like you are from those we could not make easily a maker of unsuccessful ones.
Some basic words in Turkish are-
Merhaba\selam- Hello
nasılsın(ız)\iyi misin(iz)\ne yapıyorsun(uz)\naber- How are you
iyiyim\iyilik\fena değil- response to how are you
evet\hayır- Yes\no. ( No can also be said by flicking your head up and clicking quickly).
teşekkür ederim\sağol- thank you
anladım\anlamadım- I understand\I dont understand- one of my favorites.
var\yok- there is\ there isnt- I have\ I dont have.
ne kadar- how much.
çok güzel- very beautiful, used to describe anything you think is good.
allaha allah- probably the most common word used, meaning god.
Afiyet Olsun- the 2nd most common word said in Turkish- which does not have a direct english translation, but along the lines of enjoy your food.
doğru mu- is this true? I use this all the time after saying something very complicated in turkish and I want to know if I spoke correctly or not.
Right now I spend all my time at school and evenings studying grammar, learning new words, practicing by holding conversations, or attempting to read childrens books. Becoming fluent in this language has evolved in a mission for me, that I attack with the determination as if it were a matter of life or death. Good news- if you speak slowly and use a fairly regular vocabulary, I can pretty much understand what your saying!!
I am hoping one day (soon!) I can master this difficult language...ama, tabi, inşallah. (but, of course, god willing).
xoxo, Amber.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
A Turkish life in an American body- an update of the past 3 weeks.
After I posted my last blog, my school, determined to make adapting as hard as possible, moved me into a different class than the one I had been attending for the first week. It was like the first day all over again- extreme amounts of attention I didnt want. But now, I have been going to school for three weeks. Hard to believe I know. Ive adapted to my class and I am now thankful for that miserable attention in the beggining, because now I know many people, from all different classes and grades. I go out with a different group of kids every weekend, to cafes or movies or the sea.
As far as class goes- I have maths (advanced algerbra and geometry) as well as Turkish lit., Turkish language, Otoman history, German, English, Art, Religion, Health, National security, and a whole 7 hours of geograghy. Because I cant understand the teachers lectures though, I generally study turkish. Right now I am reading chidrens books. One of my teachers gave me homework to write an essay on Turk-America and Nato and why its important. Im lucky he gave me three months to complete it!
School culture note- At the begining of class when the teacher walks in we all stand. Like a lioness, proud and powerful, they say good morning no matter the time of day. We then all together say thank you. When speaking to the teacher during class you stand unless the teacher says you may sit. But, even with these formalities the atmosphere is a friendly one-much more friendly than schools in the US. The teachers call us 'friends' instead of students and sometimes they come sit next to you on the small wooden benches.
At home, I have reached the home sweet home phase. Although sometimes school is still new and strange, at home I couldnt be happier.I look forward to coming home every night and enjoying a family dinner and then tea time. Sometimes we get a little off task- one night ended in a sing and dance a-thon. Birsen and Ali were singing traditional and gypsy songs from different regions in Turkey- real music. The sounds of people and generations- music that is never recorded or downloaded onto an ipod. Other times we begin talking discussing Turkish or American politics over some delicious Turkish delight. Other times religion. Its facinating to learn the simularity of beliefs between us although we come from two different worlds.
There are some things about Turkey I am falling in love with. The old man with a small radio on top of his cart of simits every morning, trying to make a living. The steep, narrow cobble stone streets and the way they flood when it rains. A kiss on each cheek and a hug on each side when saying hello or departing. The exhilirating feeling of having a conversation completely in Turkish, the words just coming out of your mouth without thought,feeling like they arent your own words, but something completely new. It all feels a little like a dream. The surrealness of being here has yet to leave me. I dont think I will ever be able to travel to a country, and be just a visitor again. You cant see the country until you see it from its peoples balconys, from their dinner tables, in their language.
During one of the past weeks we also took a spontaneous day trip tp Ephesus. Ephesus is an accient city, its history mixed and confussed in Greek myths, which biblical charchters such as Paul taught at, and many wars have changed its owners over and over. The cream colored buildings against the blue blue sky was stunning. I could almost see its long gone people, walking through the streets, on their way to the temples, the library, or the hamam. When I found ancient Greek writing carved into the walls,I think my hand may have begun to shake.The history of that place was alive, and the stories those words tell, I can only imagine. Later, we went to the final home of the Virgin Mary.
Life continues in Turkey.
Yes- Life. I learn a little more Turkish each day, figure out how to get to a new place by myself, make friends, I am even picking up Turkish body language and a Çanakkale accent- plainly, Im adapting. Im working through each days problems,and maybe one day, Ill even be able to function like a normal person. A life is begining to form, and along with it a person. The Amber that lived in America is a completely different from this half developed person who lives in Turkey. Its weird to think these two people, citizens of two different worlds, inhabited\inhabit the same body.
Lots of love,
Amber
Culture note-
İve been noticing the amount of consumption of products in America. An example- I have a package of hair elastics that I bought in America. Last night Sude would not stop questioning me on why I had so many, why I would need so many etc. Here I think you buy them individually. Another example is when I bought three pens at the store, Sude had the same reaction.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Back To School
This week I have began school. With the school year, a whole new set of problems is presented. The first day was something else. Awful really, actually. They had the national news there and I was shoved around with officals, forced to pose for photos, and even was interveiwed IN TUKISH! haha. The school put on a dance show for us and everything. Im a pretty big deal here because I am the 2nd exchange student they have ever had. If there wasnt a big sign around my head saying new kid already- there was certianly by the end of the day. It was all terribly mortifying. Up there with some of my worst moments. The next day I plainly did not want to go. I found myself doing something I never thought I would- missing East High!
In my desperation I talked to my brother, and he said something that really stuck. Being here is my chance to not only learn about Turkish culture, learn a new language etc, but to learn what is most important to me. A oppurtunity for personal revelation. He also said it is a chance to learn who I am really am. When you remove your school, your friends, and your family, all things we rely on to define us, you are left with you, in the purest form. Im looking forward to these lessons- and have actually already experienced a good amount of them. He ended the conversation with go get the world. Thats exactly what Im going to do- go get the world!
Each day I go to school and it gets a little better. Im actually begining to really enjoy it. I already have a great group of friends. Everyone has been extremely nice and welcoming. They love helping me with my turkish, and Ive even gone out with them a few times. We go to cafes along the sea and have coffee and play scrabble. hahah, it really helps me learn more Turkish vocabulary.
As far as education in Turkey compared to in America- First of all you chose a focus. If you chose forgien language, you take almost all forgien language classes. Same goes for math, science, etc. Then you have a class that have your same focus. Your class has one room, and your teachers come to you. You stay together all through high school. This week I do not have a class, so I have just been going to the forgien language one. 11-H. We only have 7 students, but most classes have about 30. The teachers teach in a very lecture style. They just come in- talk for 40 minutes, and then leave. No homework as far as I can tell, your just expected to go home and study on your own until you understand. At the end of high school there is an exam called the ÖSS. This decides what and if you go to college. Its pretty much like dooms day, and the older you get, the more you study. Most 12th graders go to school after school and on saturdays and sundays too, to prepare. On Mondays and Tuesdays we have schooll until 430, but the rest of the days 330. Our lunch is an hour long. Unlike the US, where if your teacher cant come, you have a sub, here you have free lesson. Or basicly time to go or do whatever you want. This week our teachers have been really busy with this European Union school sharing project that I was a part of on the first day, so we almost never have lessons. Maybe 2 out of the 8 or 9 you would usually have. Today we went down town for lunch and shopping because we had no lessons. Also when I have a free lesson I can go to the art room. One thing I love about this school,in comparision to East, is the Art program. The art teacher here is GREAT, and is allowing me to come work in the room on oil paintings etc, whenever I want.
Im adapting and finally getting moved in and making friends and improving with Turkish, still I miss you all like crazy.
You are all in my thoughts, Amber.
In my desperation I talked to my brother, and he said something that really stuck. Being here is my chance to not only learn about Turkish culture, learn a new language etc, but to learn what is most important to me. A oppurtunity for personal revelation. He also said it is a chance to learn who I am really am. When you remove your school, your friends, and your family, all things we rely on to define us, you are left with you, in the purest form. Im looking forward to these lessons- and have actually already experienced a good amount of them. He ended the conversation with go get the world. Thats exactly what Im going to do- go get the world!
Each day I go to school and it gets a little better. Im actually begining to really enjoy it. I already have a great group of friends. Everyone has been extremely nice and welcoming. They love helping me with my turkish, and Ive even gone out with them a few times. We go to cafes along the sea and have coffee and play scrabble. hahah, it really helps me learn more Turkish vocabulary.
As far as education in Turkey compared to in America- First of all you chose a focus. If you chose forgien language, you take almost all forgien language classes. Same goes for math, science, etc. Then you have a class that have your same focus. Your class has one room, and your teachers come to you. You stay together all through high school. This week I do not have a class, so I have just been going to the forgien language one. 11-H. We only have 7 students, but most classes have about 30. The teachers teach in a very lecture style. They just come in- talk for 40 minutes, and then leave. No homework as far as I can tell, your just expected to go home and study on your own until you understand. At the end of high school there is an exam called the ÖSS. This decides what and if you go to college. Its pretty much like dooms day, and the older you get, the more you study. Most 12th graders go to school after school and on saturdays and sundays too, to prepare. On Mondays and Tuesdays we have schooll until 430, but the rest of the days 330. Our lunch is an hour long. Unlike the US, where if your teacher cant come, you have a sub, here you have free lesson. Or basicly time to go or do whatever you want. This week our teachers have been really busy with this European Union school sharing project that I was a part of on the first day, so we almost never have lessons. Maybe 2 out of the 8 or 9 you would usually have. Today we went down town for lunch and shopping because we had no lessons. Also when I have a free lesson I can go to the art room. One thing I love about this school,in comparision to East, is the Art program. The art teacher here is GREAT, and is allowing me to come work in the room on oil paintings etc, whenever I want.
Im adapting and finally getting moved in and making friends and improving with Turkish, still I miss you all like crazy.
You are all in my thoughts, Amber.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Turkish wedding and Bayram.
For all of you who dont know, I am currently in İstanbul for a wedding of one of my aunts, and also for Bayram.
Bayram is a 3 day Muslim holiday that celebrates the end of Ramazan. Its kind of like a mix between Halloween and Christmas. In Turkey, respect is very important. When you meet a elderly person, to show great respect you kiss their hand and place it to your forehead. They will LOVE you if you do this. During Bayram though, you kiss everyones hand that is older than you, not just elderly. When you do this, they give you money!! Easiest 50 bucks I have ever made!! haha. Kids also come to your door and trick or treat. During Bayram you visit all your loved ones. Its all about spending time with family and enjoying eachothers company. And eating! Since Ramazan has just ended everyone wants to eat eat eat. We had A TON of baklava!
On the first night of Bayram we also had the pre-wedding party. We had all of the Grooms family over and served them food. Then it was time for traditional dance. I was quickly pulled into a side room and taught the most basic form. Basicly, its 3 steps to the side, kick, 3 steps to the back, kick. While doing this you hold pinkies with the person next to you and sort of shake your hand in a complicated way I couldnt figure out. The end person waves a little scarf, and at what seemed to be random times to me, we hissed. I stumbled my way through this dance, but am now informing you that I will not join the traditional dance club at school as I was intending. As we danced, the lights were turned off, and the bride and groom came out in traditional dress. The bride was wearing a red dress with gold embroidery, and a read veil to match. Behind her was a woman carrying a bowl of henna with candles in it. The bride sat and opened her hands, where large circles of henna were placed on her palms. They then placed gold in the henna, she closed her hands, and they were put inside little red baggies. Later we all got henna circles on one of our palms.
The next day was wedding day. We all went and got our hair done. After my hair was done, Ezgi and I were looking through a bridal hairstyle book. In the back there were bridal turbans too. I never thought about what a Muslim bride wears.
The wedding was very different from an American wedding. No vows or anything. Because Turkey is a secular country, no preist or Muslim religious man (?) is needed. I was wondering- even in non-relgious families in the US usually have a preist for vows. Is that required? As far as sealing the deal, the bride and groom just signed some papers in privite. The wedding was really more of an excuse to have a big dance party. Most of the night was danced away in traditional dances I didnt even dare to try. They, of course, also had a very dramatic enterance (with fireworks and humorous glatatior music) that made us all laugh. For a long time the bride and groom stood up front wearing read scarves that people would come pin gold and money to. This money was to help them begin family.
Last night we went to dinner at a more conservative families home. This may sound weird, but everything in their home seemed to say muslim, right down to the lilac colored walls. My family is not practicing the muslim religion so it was different for me. THey were very kind and enjoyable. Although some of the time we spent there was divided between sexes, it oddly didnt bother me, and it didnt seem to bother anyone else either. They seemed plenty happy with their lifestyle, so who am I to say it is wrong? You kind of just have to leave your judgements at the door.
It been really great being surronded by all my host families family. It is very large- 7 girls and 1 boy.You add in grandpa and all the spouses and children and you get a pretty big party. They are all pretty young, and very turkish- loud, expressive, and extremely friendly. Each night we have one big sleepover, and sometimes even enjoy a meal on the floor. One day we were on the way to a mall when a little boy came to our car window and tried to sell us kleenex. My Amca turned up the music, pulled out the exact same kleenex the boy was selling, and began to crazily dance with it. The little boy sure didnt know what to think, but it really made me smile.
Something right now that I am really struggling with is trying to find a balance between the Ambers. How to be an American here, and be true to my beliefs, while trying to be Turkish and fit in with them, and be open minded about their beliefs is a challenge. Hopefully that is something that will work itself out in time.
Much and best wishes to all of you, Amber
Bayram is a 3 day Muslim holiday that celebrates the end of Ramazan. Its kind of like a mix between Halloween and Christmas. In Turkey, respect is very important. When you meet a elderly person, to show great respect you kiss their hand and place it to your forehead. They will LOVE you if you do this. During Bayram though, you kiss everyones hand that is older than you, not just elderly. When you do this, they give you money!! Easiest 50 bucks I have ever made!! haha. Kids also come to your door and trick or treat. During Bayram you visit all your loved ones. Its all about spending time with family and enjoying eachothers company. And eating! Since Ramazan has just ended everyone wants to eat eat eat. We had A TON of baklava!
On the first night of Bayram we also had the pre-wedding party. We had all of the Grooms family over and served them food. Then it was time for traditional dance. I was quickly pulled into a side room and taught the most basic form. Basicly, its 3 steps to the side, kick, 3 steps to the back, kick. While doing this you hold pinkies with the person next to you and sort of shake your hand in a complicated way I couldnt figure out. The end person waves a little scarf, and at what seemed to be random times to me, we hissed. I stumbled my way through this dance, but am now informing you that I will not join the traditional dance club at school as I was intending. As we danced, the lights were turned off, and the bride and groom came out in traditional dress. The bride was wearing a red dress with gold embroidery, and a read veil to match. Behind her was a woman carrying a bowl of henna with candles in it. The bride sat and opened her hands, where large circles of henna were placed on her palms. They then placed gold in the henna, she closed her hands, and they were put inside little red baggies. Later we all got henna circles on one of our palms.
The next day was wedding day. We all went and got our hair done. After my hair was done, Ezgi and I were looking through a bridal hairstyle book. In the back there were bridal turbans too. I never thought about what a Muslim bride wears.
The wedding was very different from an American wedding. No vows or anything. Because Turkey is a secular country, no preist or Muslim religious man (?) is needed. I was wondering- even in non-relgious families in the US usually have a preist for vows. Is that required? As far as sealing the deal, the bride and groom just signed some papers in privite. The wedding was really more of an excuse to have a big dance party. Most of the night was danced away in traditional dances I didnt even dare to try. They, of course, also had a very dramatic enterance (with fireworks and humorous glatatior music) that made us all laugh. For a long time the bride and groom stood up front wearing read scarves that people would come pin gold and money to. This money was to help them begin family.
Last night we went to dinner at a more conservative families home. This may sound weird, but everything in their home seemed to say muslim, right down to the lilac colored walls. My family is not practicing the muslim religion so it was different for me. THey were very kind and enjoyable. Although some of the time we spent there was divided between sexes, it oddly didnt bother me, and it didnt seem to bother anyone else either. They seemed plenty happy with their lifestyle, so who am I to say it is wrong? You kind of just have to leave your judgements at the door.
It been really great being surronded by all my host families family. It is very large- 7 girls and 1 boy.You add in grandpa and all the spouses and children and you get a pretty big party. They are all pretty young, and very turkish- loud, expressive, and extremely friendly. Each night we have one big sleepover, and sometimes even enjoy a meal on the floor. One day we were on the way to a mall when a little boy came to our car window and tried to sell us kleenex. My Amca turned up the music, pulled out the exact same kleenex the boy was selling, and began to crazily dance with it. The little boy sure didnt know what to think, but it really made me smile.
Something right now that I am really struggling with is trying to find a balance between the Ambers. How to be an American here, and be true to my beliefs, while trying to be Turkish and fit in with them, and be open minded about their beliefs is a challenge. Hopefully that is something that will work itself out in time.
Much and best wishes to all of you, Amber
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Life is picking up
Life here is quickly and suddenly going to take a turn for the crazy, stressfull, busy life I thrive for. Yay! Already life has begun to pick up. This past week has mostly been a good one. Sunday was probably my favorite day of my exchange so far.
It began when we went for coffee at a friends house. These people are the people who told my host family about YES, and currently have a daughter on exchange. I really enjoy them, and am glad when we get to spend time with them. The mom (I feel silly because I cant remember their names) taught me how to make Turkish coffee! Its known to be an art, and I was learning from the best. They used to own a coffee shop! Following that we went to a local village. I was already in a good mood from the coffee lesson, but driving to the village- through the rolling golden hills of Turkey, above the sea- made me feel so giddy. At the village I was pleased to be welcomed with the double kiss and treated like family! This village had the same feel as the ones in China, only this time I wasnt a unwelcome tourist, but family. They took us to their garden where we picked fruit and visited. One villager even gave me a beautiful flower. After they served us tasty fried cheese things, even though they were fasting. The day continued as we went to pick up Granny and take her to dinner and ice cream. She was the exact image of how a grandmother is depicted on TV!! The poor woman- Sude kept pulling off her headscarf and jumping on her- quite overwhelming for granny. At the little Ice cream place, It was pretty funny because they were playing very obscene English music. Everyone was completely oblivious except me.
The next few days I spent a lot of time just sitting on the hammok, relaxing, trying to enjoy the out doors before we move to the winter house and high paced life begins. Twice Ezgi, 'family' of ours, invited me out with her. Once just her and me, once with her friends. She is only a few years older than me- It was veryyy nice to be around some teenage energy. She showed me all the best cafes and hang outs around the city. She went to the school I will be attending, so she told me all the about the uniform, and how to break it. She also showed me this food called Midye that is sold on the streets of Çanakkale late at night, after the fishermen come in. It is basiclly calm with rice and lemon juice served in the shell. Ohhhh so tasty!!
Culture note- Turks are always weirdly scared of getting cold and always worrying that you may be cold. AFS had mentioned we would see this, and it is proving true with every person I meet here. ' No, Sude, I promise I will not catch a cold if my hair is wet while I watch TV.' Or the importance that I wear a jacket in 70 degree weather, but also zip it all the way up. After all, I may catch a cold ;)
Missing you all lotsss, Amber
It began when we went for coffee at a friends house. These people are the people who told my host family about YES, and currently have a daughter on exchange. I really enjoy them, and am glad when we get to spend time with them. The mom (I feel silly because I cant remember their names) taught me how to make Turkish coffee! Its known to be an art, and I was learning from the best. They used to own a coffee shop! Following that we went to a local village. I was already in a good mood from the coffee lesson, but driving to the village- through the rolling golden hills of Turkey, above the sea- made me feel so giddy. At the village I was pleased to be welcomed with the double kiss and treated like family! This village had the same feel as the ones in China, only this time I wasnt a unwelcome tourist, but family. They took us to their garden where we picked fruit and visited. One villager even gave me a beautiful flower. After they served us tasty fried cheese things, even though they were fasting. The day continued as we went to pick up Granny and take her to dinner and ice cream. She was the exact image of how a grandmother is depicted on TV!! The poor woman- Sude kept pulling off her headscarf and jumping on her- quite overwhelming for granny. At the little Ice cream place, It was pretty funny because they were playing very obscene English music. Everyone was completely oblivious except me.
The next few days I spent a lot of time just sitting on the hammok, relaxing, trying to enjoy the out doors before we move to the winter house and high paced life begins. Twice Ezgi, 'family' of ours, invited me out with her. Once just her and me, once with her friends. She is only a few years older than me- It was veryyy nice to be around some teenage energy. She showed me all the best cafes and hang outs around the city. She went to the school I will be attending, so she told me all the about the uniform, and how to break it. She also showed me this food called Midye that is sold on the streets of Çanakkale late at night, after the fishermen come in. It is basiclly calm with rice and lemon juice served in the shell. Ohhhh so tasty!!
Culture note- Turks are always weirdly scared of getting cold and always worrying that you may be cold. AFS had mentioned we would see this, and it is proving true with every person I meet here. ' No, Sude, I promise I will not catch a cold if my hair is wet while I watch TV.' Or the importance that I wear a jacket in 70 degree weather, but also zip it all the way up. After all, I may catch a cold ;)
Missing you all lotsss, Amber
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Ramazan and Dardanos
Before Ramazan ends, I had to try it one more time- even if I was doing it all by myself. And guess what? It was harder than the first time, but just as rewarding. Have you ever noticed, in our high paced lives, how eating is just something we do? We shove the food in without really tasting it and then move to the next activity of the day. All day, I dreamt of just simple fresh bread dipped in peynir. How have I been eating that every morning and not crying from its incredible flavor?? I made a pact then to never just eat- but to savor my food. We really forget how lucky we are to have it.
Another thing that came to my attention as I broke my fast is we are slaves to this earth. Us, in our foolish ways, think we can out smart our planet with our science and cars and money. But when it comes down to it- We need this earth. I know, duh. But really, We (the human race) think we rule the world, when really, the world rules us. Just something to chew on there.
I would really encourage you all to try fasting for Ramazan. It can be a religious thing if you want, or you can do it like me, just to bring your thoughts down to earth. All you need to do is find the time of sunrise on the internet and make sure you are up a half hour or so before that. Wash your face, then your hands, then serve your food on white table cloth. At sundown you can have your first drink of water, and then continue to eat a very big, tasty dinner. But here is the important part- break your fast with loved ones and savor each flavor. The feeling of gratitude for these people, and the food you have gone without, but now have, will knock you off your feet. I really love this holiday. Flan and I are going to celebrate it back home next year too, If any of you would like to take part.
This week has been a roller coaster. At first I had a really hard time adapting to gender roles in my host family. I came to understand though, that I was looking at it from an outside perspective, but also, I am not here to judge and or 'set things right'. As I entered viewing my host family from a Turkish point of view, I noticed I had misjudged many things as the gender roles the were once bothering me, were hardly there. I can now happily say- 'Its not good, Its not bad, Just different'. I am starting to feel really at home here. Every once in a while a thought roles into my head that says 'hey! I really do love this place.'
Im going to try to give you guys a mental idea of what Dardanos kind of looks like, since I feel it cant really be captured in photos. As you know, We are in the country. In this area there are two little markets, two bars/discos on the beach (which are always completely empty), a mosque, two playgrounds, and houses of course. The houses are all different colored cement. Red, pink, green, yellow, and white pealing paint are the most common. It feels almost like a forest outside- dirt winding roads, big trees, and feilds of plants- Until it opens up onto the beach. Our beach is right on the end of the strait going to the sea of Marama. Turks have a real sense of nationalism so all the little boats, bobbing in the water, have Turkish flags waving on them.
Here, Its pretty empty most of the time. Usually walking around the area, the only company you'll find is older men and women wandering alone and a lot of stray cats.Everyone here grows their own fruit, so not only are there gardens every where, but fresh fruit is always tasty and abundant. But most importantly- there is just something about Dardanos. Time has a rythmn here. Or a lack of one. I cant really explain it, except that it feels like time has paused to take a breath, and wrap this place in it warm embrace.
'hey! I really do love this place.'
xoxoxo- Amber
Oh and- Cultural note:
Last night we had friends (or family?) over for dinner. They explained to me in old Turkish belief, It is said, for every grain of rice you dont eat, you will have that many kids. haha!
I say family? because I am always left unsure who Im actually 'related' to and who Im not. In Turkish culture you should call everyone slightly older than you abla or abi (big sister/big brother). Anyone of maybe 15 years older than you, and above the age of maybe 30, you call Teyze or Amca (aunt/uncle). It is to show respect, which is a HUGE deal here. If they are actually family or not, I am unsure, because everyone I meet is my 'aunt' etc. Its so puzzling. :)
Another thing that came to my attention as I broke my fast is we are slaves to this earth. Us, in our foolish ways, think we can out smart our planet with our science and cars and money. But when it comes down to it- We need this earth. I know, duh. But really, We (the human race) think we rule the world, when really, the world rules us. Just something to chew on there.
I would really encourage you all to try fasting for Ramazan. It can be a religious thing if you want, or you can do it like me, just to bring your thoughts down to earth. All you need to do is find the time of sunrise on the internet and make sure you are up a half hour or so before that. Wash your face, then your hands, then serve your food on white table cloth. At sundown you can have your first drink of water, and then continue to eat a very big, tasty dinner. But here is the important part- break your fast with loved ones and savor each flavor. The feeling of gratitude for these people, and the food you have gone without, but now have, will knock you off your feet. I really love this holiday. Flan and I are going to celebrate it back home next year too, If any of you would like to take part.
This week has been a roller coaster. At first I had a really hard time adapting to gender roles in my host family. I came to understand though, that I was looking at it from an outside perspective, but also, I am not here to judge and or 'set things right'. As I entered viewing my host family from a Turkish point of view, I noticed I had misjudged many things as the gender roles the were once bothering me, were hardly there. I can now happily say- 'Its not good, Its not bad, Just different'. I am starting to feel really at home here. Every once in a while a thought roles into my head that says 'hey! I really do love this place.'
Im going to try to give you guys a mental idea of what Dardanos kind of looks like, since I feel it cant really be captured in photos. As you know, We are in the country. In this area there are two little markets, two bars/discos on the beach (which are always completely empty), a mosque, two playgrounds, and houses of course. The houses are all different colored cement. Red, pink, green, yellow, and white pealing paint are the most common. It feels almost like a forest outside- dirt winding roads, big trees, and feilds of plants- Until it opens up onto the beach. Our beach is right on the end of the strait going to the sea of Marama. Turks have a real sense of nationalism so all the little boats, bobbing in the water, have Turkish flags waving on them.
Here, Its pretty empty most of the time. Usually walking around the area, the only company you'll find is older men and women wandering alone and a lot of stray cats.Everyone here grows their own fruit, so not only are there gardens every where, but fresh fruit is always tasty and abundant. But most importantly- there is just something about Dardanos. Time has a rythmn here. Or a lack of one. I cant really explain it, except that it feels like time has paused to take a breath, and wrap this place in it warm embrace.
'hey! I really do love this place.'
xoxoxo- Amber
Oh and- Cultural note:
Last night we had friends (or family?) over for dinner. They explained to me in old Turkish belief, It is said, for every grain of rice you dont eat, you will have that many kids. haha!
I say family? because I am always left unsure who Im actually 'related' to and who Im not. In Turkish culture you should call everyone slightly older than you abla or abi (big sister/big brother). Anyone of maybe 15 years older than you, and above the age of maybe 30, you call Teyze or Amca (aunt/uncle). It is to show respect, which is a HUGE deal here. If they are actually family or not, I am unsure, because everyone I meet is my 'aunt' etc. Its so puzzling. :)
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Turkish Food!
As I have mentioned before, my anne is a very good cook. The food here is wonderful!! Sooo tasty. Our eating schedule is a little different than most in Turkey, I think though. Since my family does not practice the muslim religion, we eat during sunlight. Usually, we wake up at elevenish. Then anne prepares the food while I take all the food to the porch where we eat. The same goes with dinner,which is eaten at about eightish. I am rarely allowed to help in the cooking or cleaning, although everyday I say multiple times 'Yardim istiyor musun?' (do you want any help?) Breakfast is the most different from America. These are basic rules for a Turkish breakfast-
1. Never cook your boiled egg all the way. Half raw is preferred and actually tastes pretty good, although probably not very safe.
2.Bread. Bread.Bread. would you like another loaf to eat? haha
3. Olives are a very common breakfest food. Yogurt is to only be eaten at dinner.
4. Four glasses of Turkish tea is the average. I probably have about ten glasses of tea per day. Most people have more.
5. Fındıck- a like nutella type stuff, except it is 70 percent hazlenut. 70 percent. They tell me that most days. I dont really get the big deal but...okay. 70 percent. Got it? P.s. Its only found in Turkey.
6.HELVA! This is my favorite breakfast food. probably because it really is more of a desert. I believe it is a soy/sugar compound. mmmmm. Tasty! and yesterday I discovered it comes in flavors! Also, only in Turkey.
7.Grape molasas and sesame paste goop stuff mixed makes a chocolate like dipping sause for your loaf of bread you get every breakfast. It tastes just like chocolate!! And its super healthy too?? Only in Turkey is chocolate sause healthy.
8. A big bowl of fruit including İngirs. This fruit also found only in Turkey looks like a bright colored mini pear. Its not sweet like most fruit here but more salty I guess? Only it doesnt actually taste like salty fruit. I dont know.Its a very different flavor. I wish all of you could try one.
9.Meat is never served for breakfast. NO BACON especially. As far as I know, Pork isnt sold any where around here. Nobody, nobody eats pork.
10. Mom- CHEESE. all the time. Eating just pure cheese is normal for breakfest.
Some other things I have noticed about food etc. here are-
1.No Microwave
2. No one drinks tap water. Its very unhealthy. Water from the hose is a even bigger no no.
3. You dont have anything to drink with dinner. Instead you have tea time about a half hour after dinner.
4. We dont have a trash can or recylcling. If you have trash you put it in a little baggie and it is taken outside shortly.
5. And finally- Baklava. Yummmm. The stuff in the US is nothing compared to this amazing desert. p.s. We never have desert here unless its baklava. Although, There may be some ice cream in the freezer, you get too full from the meals to ever want any.
Dinner-
We usually have some kind of vegetable or bean cooked in olive oil and spices.The flavors are so rich and delicious, but also very healthy. Sometimes meat, but not too much thankfully. Yogurt is mixed in to everything. So far my favorite is salma (or something like that) which we had the first day. It is richly flavored rice with vegetables wrapped and cooked in grape leaves from the garden.
How am I? I am great. So far my week of boredom have been totally bearable. Yesterday I got to go grocery shopping! hahahaha.I have certianly found the humor, because the fact that I looked forward to that all day is extremely funny. Oh! And Sude and I built a real life birds nest. It took seriously an hour but hey...Ive never built a birds nest before! Then we got eggs from the fridge and put them in it with our chickens. hahaha.
I am not extremely homesick thankfully,although Id like to say I love all of you lots. The weather has been rainy but is starting to clear up so I can go to the sea soon, and maybe a bike ride. Dardanous is very rural and peaceful, a bike ride would be wonderful in the cool rainy air. Our pet chicks are getting older and starting to escape their box.
Turkish soaps have also proven to be a good time passer, while helping my Turkish. Currently I am teaching Sude basic household objects names in English. Its fun teaching her English and she learns VERY quickly. After I get out of college,I have been wanting to join the peace corps and teach HIV/AIDS prevention. But now after enjoying teaching Sude English so much, maybe I should look into the English teaching department of the peace corps. Anyways...Now I am just ranting.
Lots of loves always, Amber
1. Never cook your boiled egg all the way. Half raw is preferred and actually tastes pretty good, although probably not very safe.
2.Bread. Bread.Bread. would you like another loaf to eat? haha
3. Olives are a very common breakfest food. Yogurt is to only be eaten at dinner.
4. Four glasses of Turkish tea is the average. I probably have about ten glasses of tea per day. Most people have more.
5. Fındıck- a like nutella type stuff, except it is 70 percent hazlenut. 70 percent. They tell me that most days. I dont really get the big deal but...okay. 70 percent. Got it? P.s. Its only found in Turkey.
6.HELVA! This is my favorite breakfast food. probably because it really is more of a desert. I believe it is a soy/sugar compound. mmmmm. Tasty! and yesterday I discovered it comes in flavors! Also, only in Turkey.
7.Grape molasas and sesame paste goop stuff mixed makes a chocolate like dipping sause for your loaf of bread you get every breakfast. It tastes just like chocolate!! And its super healthy too?? Only in Turkey is chocolate sause healthy.
8. A big bowl of fruit including İngirs. This fruit also found only in Turkey looks like a bright colored mini pear. Its not sweet like most fruit here but more salty I guess? Only it doesnt actually taste like salty fruit. I dont know.Its a very different flavor. I wish all of you could try one.
9.Meat is never served for breakfast. NO BACON especially. As far as I know, Pork isnt sold any where around here. Nobody, nobody eats pork.
10. Mom- CHEESE. all the time. Eating just pure cheese is normal for breakfest.
Some other things I have noticed about food etc. here are-
1.No Microwave
2. No one drinks tap water. Its very unhealthy. Water from the hose is a even bigger no no.
3. You dont have anything to drink with dinner. Instead you have tea time about a half hour after dinner.
4. We dont have a trash can or recylcling. If you have trash you put it in a little baggie and it is taken outside shortly.
5. And finally- Baklava. Yummmm. The stuff in the US is nothing compared to this amazing desert. p.s. We never have desert here unless its baklava. Although, There may be some ice cream in the freezer, you get too full from the meals to ever want any.
Dinner-
We usually have some kind of vegetable or bean cooked in olive oil and spices.The flavors are so rich and delicious, but also very healthy. Sometimes meat, but not too much thankfully. Yogurt is mixed in to everything. So far my favorite is salma (or something like that) which we had the first day. It is richly flavored rice with vegetables wrapped and cooked in grape leaves from the garden.
How am I? I am great. So far my week of boredom have been totally bearable. Yesterday I got to go grocery shopping! hahahaha.I have certianly found the humor, because the fact that I looked forward to that all day is extremely funny. Oh! And Sude and I built a real life birds nest. It took seriously an hour but hey...Ive never built a birds nest before! Then we got eggs from the fridge and put them in it with our chickens. hahaha.
I am not extremely homesick thankfully,although Id like to say I love all of you lots. The weather has been rainy but is starting to clear up so I can go to the sea soon, and maybe a bike ride. Dardanous is very rural and peaceful, a bike ride would be wonderful in the cool rainy air. Our pet chicks are getting older and starting to escape their box.
Turkish soaps have also proven to be a good time passer, while helping my Turkish. Currently I am teaching Sude basic household objects names in English. Its fun teaching her English and she learns VERY quickly. After I get out of college,I have been wanting to join the peace corps and teach HIV/AIDS prevention. But now after enjoying teaching Sude English so much, maybe I should look into the English teaching department of the peace corps. Anyways...Now I am just ranting.
Lots of loves always, Amber
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