pyramids and camels

We just got back from five days in Jordan and Egypt, wherein we saw Petra, the Red Sea, and Cairo (pyramids et all). More details to come, but for now I'll leave you with this beauty:
Our camel guides also doubled as photo-taking geniuses. I mean, these guys were effing professionals-- this pose wasn't even my idea!

ashkelon

still traveling

We're just hanging out in our hotel in Istanbul, waiting to fly to Tel Aviv and connect with our dad this afternoon.

Flying yesterday was uneventful. Delta had a pretty fantastic selection of movies so I watched 4 1/2 movies in lieu of getting any sleep on the way to Amsterdam. Then the next flight to Istanbul was too cold for me to be able to fall asleep. This resulted in a short nap upon hotel check-in, that maybe extended to three hours. By the time we were a little awake, it was 8pm and we didn't feel like navigating our way downtown anymore. Kind of lame, but we're coming back in two weeks with several days to explore the city.
I've got my maxi dress and keens: my uniform for the next three weeks. I'm happy to be here safely, and so excited for the upcoming adventures! Kirst and I will stay in Israel with our dad for just a day(beach, anyone?), then the three of us will drive to Petra and meet up with mom and Daniel, who are flying into Jordan. We have a whirlwind tour of Jordan and Egypt planned, then the five of us will head back to Israel. My mom and brother leave before Kirst and I do, so we'll get some extra days in Israel, then a few days in Istanbul before flying home.

so not worth it

I don't think I've ever spent $100 on a pair of shoes and felt so meh.

But they're going to be perfect for my trip. Plus? Everyone third person on the streets of Portland is wearing a pair of Keens, so I can continue to wear them when I get home and fit right in.

shark week

What do you bring to a pot luck shark week kick-off party?

A fruit tray, of course.