I Think I Am Managing

So far Istanbul has been more then eventful and just as surprising to me. I have been able to see so many things already such as the Hagia Sophia and the Blue mosques. One of my favorites was actually when Huma and I along with the kids went to a Robot zoo! I have had the opportunity to go to several of Istanbuls malls, my favorite was the Canyon mall which is in the shape of a canyon (duh) and even has a small river flowing through it. I cannot wait to visit that mall in the summer time when its nice outside! Istinye Park mall is large and new, with many fancy shops and even a Starbucks. I like going there to read and relax it makes me feel at home as just about every Starbucks does.
Last night I was able to meet Sara another au pair from Iowa and we went to Taksim square to watch the grand opening festivities for Istanbul 2010. This year Istanbul was choosen as Europes Cultural Capitol which means that all year long there will be special exhibitions, more museums open for longer periods of time (maybe even cheaper) and awesome cultural events all over town for the entire year! I feel so lucky to be in this city during this time of its history (and let me tell you, this place has alot of history).
The opening festivities were to die for, there are severn hills of Istanbul and each was holding a different concert of some kind both before and after the firworks and introduction ceremonies. I didnt know that Taksim was going to be the most popular and best concert of all the hills until I got there. I decided to go there at first becasue it was closest and one easy simple metro ride away. I am so thankful for Quinn and all his patients with me when I was struggling to read a map, or a metro line, or bus line because now I am so good at it. It all makes sense to me and I dont think I will get lost much. I was able to actually test my skills when Sara and I were walking from Taksim to the metro, somehow when we were lost in conversation we took a wrong turn (rather lack of turn) and ended up way too far off course. It was easy for me to orient us and then head in the right direction as well as direct Sara where to go after I hopped on the metro. So thanks Quinn all that hard work paid off!
Today was especially nice, its Sunday and technically my day off but Huma has set up a "playdate" for me with another girl named Ece as well. Her parents would like her to learn english both the language and the accent and want me to some spend time with her. Only 2 hours once a week. It was very enjoyable and the little girl whos 6 spoke english very well. Its a fun and easy way for me to earn a little more money and be able to save. (Maybe keep my Starbucks habit around!)
Soon I want to visit Saltanahmet at night and the Grand Bazzar!