Thursday
Dear Elsie
Today was the day I began the blog early in the morning.
6am.
A place we’ve never been, seen or know much about. After quietly cruising out of Istanbul at 11pm last night ( I was fast asleep), I woke at 6am to find our ship in the Dardanelles.
Such a historic Strait, laden with history across the centuries. With land close by, we passed rolling tree covered hills with odd villages and buildings along the way.
The red flag etched out on the hillside is a telling sign we are still in Türkiye. We glide past Eceabat. I should be working but I keep jumping up from my desk to take photos!
The early morning call to prayer has been replaced by the thunking of the deck staff putting up sunbeds. Scarfs and skirts are replaced by sunhats and swim-suits.
Mike went off to the gym. “Work” he said, “the internet was super slow last night, so get some work done in case that happens again.” Ship internet using Starlink has never let me down. I’m not convinced I’ll have a problem, but dutifully got to work.
The pilot vessel meantime followed us along the waterway.
There were some sights to see…
As we began to exit the Dardenelles, we saw the last of the Turkish flags…
The pilot vessel appeared and the Turkish pilot hopped off.
The pilot appeared on the back deck of his boat and waved to all of those who were waving at him. He took a photo or two and then off they went. Very quickly we were in the open water of the Aegean sea – the interesting hillside sights gave way to broad sea-scapes with the occasional islands. We soon passed a large Greek island with a multitude of windmills. They seem to be on every hill & mountain top of every island we pass.
This afternoon, we went downstairs to the coffee shop and had coffee. There is a glass lift so I went and caught it up a floor while Mike took a photo. I think the lady thought I was mad!
Soon Julian will message to ask if I am ready to walk, so I’d better end up here and be prepared.
Psalm 104:31
May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in His works—
It’s not about now – we are only passing through.
Keep the smile going.
God bless you.
In His Grip,
Gran xx 🙂