Underground Basilica Cistern

One day Landon and I took a trip to this cistern to check it out. (Dad was resting with Gavin in the hotel as he was struck by a stomach bug that started with Landon at the start of the trip. Mom and Gavin would be the next to get it the following day! What fun!!) This cistern was built in the 6th century and provided water to the city then known as Constantinople. Landon's favorite part were the fish in the water and he did not like the Medusa head at all. It was pretty down there with all of the lights and columns.

Grand Bazaar

Here is our shopping trip to the Grand Bazaar which is one of the world's largest covered shopping markets and has over 5000 shops and spans across 60 streets. It was also built in the 1400's and was a lot of fun to see. (for me at least!) You could easily spend all day in here and Istanbul has wonderful shopping. Not as cheap as our time in Southeast Asia but equally interesting. We got some nice pieces and some hats for the boys and did not spend all day here (much to the relief of all 3 guys!)

Hagia Sophia

Here are our pics of the Hagia Sophia which was first a church dedicated in 360 and served as a cathedral to Constantinople. In the 1400's it was converted into a Mosque and is now a museum. The tour of this was really amazing and the history was impressive.

Blue Mosque

Here are our pics from the Blue Mosque. It was built in the early 1600's and is known for it's blue tiles inside and the 6 minarets outside. It was very beautiful and to go inside women had to wear headscarves and everyone removed shoes.

Topkapi Palace

Here are pics of our visit to Topkapi Palace (which was the official residence in the city of the Ottoman sultans since the 1400's) It was very expansive and had many cool artifacts on display, such as jewels and swords from that time period.

Istanbul, Turkey Trip

Last week we spent the week in Istanbul, Turkey sightseeing. It was an interesting city with very friendly people, great food and beautiful sights. We were hoping for a little bit better weather while we were there but we still had a good time. Here are some of the first pics of the city.









































Marmara Sea

Cats are everywhere

The boys were impressed...Gavin took a nap while Landon was enthralled with his lollipop ring ;)

Mommy's Birthday!

We had a great time celebrating Mommy's birthday before we left for Turkey almost 2 weeks ago. Landon LOVES birthdays and enjoyed helping open gifts and eating the cake that Daddy made! Gavin was partial to the wrapping paper however ;)