New Year's Letter

 

Hello my Beloved Ones,

It is the eve of the new year and it suddenly dawned on me, “Hey, Christmas /New Year’s letters are a brilliant idea!” Of course they are, but sitting down and writing one is a different story. But because I have found myself largely indisposed on my couch due to a minor but incredibly obnoxious illness, I am more than willing to forego hanging up the laundry and do a bit of reflecting. 

It has been nearly one year since I packed most everything I own into my parents’ basement and moved to Istanbul. It has been one hell of a time since. I have gotten to experience an entirely different place in so many different ways in appropriately seasonal stages.

 Last winter was spent with gawking eyes taking in everything around me while I worked to orient myself both geographically and culturally.

The spring was spent getting into a groove here and learning how to live, work and function on an every day level. I began trying my hand as an English teacher, which proved to be quite a natural transition.

By the summer, I felt at home and was priviledged to welcome many of you here. It became a season of reunions both for Akın and for me. I found it so unique and beautiful to link many various stages of my experience together: Brockell from back home, Monica from university, Aneta and Alex from Germany and Peter from Edinburgh. Our trip to visit some fantastic folks in Bosnia continued this trend and opened our eyes to a wonderful new corner of the world.

The fall became a time of discipline as I took on increasing responsibilities for work. I began teaching English Literature to 6th and 7th graders at a private school in Istanbul. It is difficult work, but I am lucky to have a fantastic boss, whom I love dearly. I have also been fortunate to continue teaching online courses. This balance between academic and elementary eduaction has taught me a lot about the art of teaching itself. A week in Milan proved a much needed remedy for this intensity. Thanks, girls, for hosting me!

Now, here I am in the winter again, a time of celebrations. Akın and I are so fortunate to have developed a loving community here, which is mirrored in my love for all of you back home and around the globe.

Looking forward, who knows what will come. I will continue working in Istanbul until the end of June and will return home for the summer. I hope to meet many of you at that time. Beyond that, only time will tell.

All my love,

Wynter