Ghost Eagles and Boating in the Mediterranean: Halloween in Turkey

Gutting the pumpkin in our PJs

No trick or treating for the kids this Halloween, but thankfully the holiday did not pass without some celebration.  First, the Monday before, the kids I bought a huge pumpkin at the weekly market.  It was a nice whitish green in color but definitely not for carving.  No, the rind was unbelievably thick. Indeed, Alan got quite a workout transforming it to the jack-o-lantern design that Brewer had drawn for it.  Nevertheless, the kids were ecstatic with the end result and we had a lit pumpkin on our balcony all week.

My sweet eagle ghost and friendly ghost

Then, on Halloween day Nese arranged a private boat trip for all the Georgetown students and faculty. Many dressed up for the ride, including Brewer and Ruby.  We did the best we could considering our lack of resources.  After much guided deliberation (No, Brewer I cannot sew a snow Yeti monster costume), Brewer settled on a "scary ghost eagle" and Ruby was content to be a straight up ghost.  They had so much fun dressing up and actually stayed in their costumes for most of the trip.

Close up showing my expert face painting
work Brewer specifically requested that he
have scary "cuts".

Me and Rubes enjoying the view

The ride was about four hours and went all around the penninsula where the castle is located.  The weather was perfect (low 70s and sunny) so we got some great views of the castle walls, caves, and Kleopatra beach.  We stopped along the way for swimming too.  The kids of course did not get in but had so much fun watching and cheering for everyone, including Alan, jumping and diving from the boat. (Those crazy college kids.) 

Harbor with the red tower

Brewer and Ruby did not get bored one bit.   Nese brought lots of sandwiches, chips and Halloween candy that helped considerably anytime they started to get fidgety. - Kelly