skyscrapers

For some reason lately I've really been missing the feeling of walking next to and along skyscrapers. Maybe its the feeling of something bigger taking control, or knowing that I'm so small in a world that is so big and magnificient, but anyways, I missed it. Istanbul does have skyscrapers, dont you worry (a city of 20 million would be next to impossible to function without some sort of corporate structure) Knowing this I took the metro on my day off to this area and walked around, It made me feel a little better, but the problem with thier skyscrapers is that they are very spread out. There is like one per block. So i barely got the feeling of being small.

The weather has been beautiful here, I would love to only wear a tank top but all the Turks are wearing winter jackets still. How weird am I to think this weather is hot?

On my second day off I decided I wanted to take a long walk, I went to where one of my students works b/c she has been upset with me for not visiting. I found her shop with no problems and she was very excited to see me. We talked, she showed me around, she took me to all of her friends stores. Showered me with gifts that I dont need (minus the sunglasses which I was going to buy that day anyways) bought me lunch, her boss offered me a job and couldnt understand why I didnt want to work on my days off from teaching "but christy, its not "work" here, you can relax and talk to people. Me"but i have to wake up and come, i'm not here to work myself to death"
I do like the Turkish work style. She was able to just leave for a couple hours to walk me around. That is something that would NEVER happen in America, you would either be fired, docked pay, or reprimanded, for just leaving for a few hours.
My student then paid for my bus on our way home, something that i've noticed is common, she was mad that I would suggest paying. Why is our culture so different. Everyone fend for themselves, no treating of guests differently. This is something I really admire about the turks, not only b/c i love being treated like a princess, but because I really agree with it. It has been very difficult for me to understand and to accept but to get used to. Another thing I am very jealous of and have talked to many Ex pats about, is tea culture. Everywhere you go, you sit and enjoy a tea with someone, no problem. You dont want a tea? oh thats almost not accepted, want to talk? have a tea. want to shop? have a tea. want to catch up ? lets have a tea. busy? lets have a tea. Its good. Needless to say after that crazy day, skyscrapers felt distant. I think this city / culture is amazing. I will eventually get my fill of skyscrapers, It can wait 3.5 more months.