Turkish "Icecream" Man giving me lessons on how to make the perfect icecream.
Bahri and I together:)
At Sand City in Antalya. I am next to Ataturk who is like the father of modern Turkey.Had an awsome time in Turkey with Bahri and his family. Ramadan started whilst I was there and I loved the atmosphere and kindness that filled the country. During the day everything was pretty quiet. Most people would sleep until late morning and then as soon as the sun set massive feasts with family and friends would begin. Around the corner from our place there was a festival every night. The street was lined with food stalls, markets, rides for the children and a stage with different shows each evening. One I captured on camera is a famous old prayer ritual from Konya. The music in it is so soothing and relaxing.
Ramadan, its such an amazing time! It is often easy to take for granted simple things such as food, water and shelter -- but when your face to face with those less fortunate, you appreciate and cherish life a whole lot more. We visited a village in Antalya to help some of these people out. The first encounter we had was with an old man riding a bicycle (he must have been 70-80). Initially we asked him for directions, of which he was unable able to help us, and upon leaving anne handed him a box of food - containing rice, oils, olives, flour, salt etc (basical essentials). He was not overly excited on the outside, but I could tell by his gestures that he was indeed a happy man within. Ten minutes later and only 100metres away from him (still lost) I looked back to the old man and noticed he was still trying to work out how to attach the food box to his bike and go home safely. I'm not sure what the result was but my heart pounds everytime I think of him. The Mayor of the village accompanied us and directed us to various families/individuals in the area. It was a fantastic opportunity to take photographs here, the shots would have been breathe-taking and heart stoppping.... however, I couldn't bring myself to take one photo.......Fasting and Ramadan..... not only opens your heart and eyes but it truely does add dimensions to your character.
I'm now back in Australia and back into training. The Korea National Team is coming to Australia for a few weeks training in lead up to their Asian Games. It will be good to have some more friendly competition and to finally welcome them to our country.
Bahri is also in Australia tomorrow and .......Im so excited:) Yipeeeeee!
