moving on

The morning was busy at the villa and the long long afternoon was busy at the apartment - steam cleaning furniture! Fortunately I was able to jump in to the pool to cool because even though it was overcast, the temp was  around 38ºC - not ideal for such activities!

The apartment is now ready to be put on the market. Burak arrived around 5pm and took a few photos before running me home to the villa, his car packed with yet more of my stuff. One of the last times I will be needing to do this.

It was a significant and at times very melancholy day. I know my mood was triggered by Gaby leaving last night - I'm always sad when friends leave -  but my day's activities enhanced this doleful frame of mind.  Going to the complex  I walked from the bus stop via the dirt track (in the pic) which was not only my daily route with Rufus which he loves because he can safely run off lead, which is no longer possible in Akbuk, but also because for years every time I walked here I was joined by Gece the community garden dog, sweetheart, (extra) who recently crossed the rainbow bridge. I hope she's found peace in her eternal much longed for forever home.  Getting to the complex I also felt sad about the garden cats I've fed for years - especially Nelson and Cleo.  I'm continuing to buy cat food, delivered by Amazon, which a neighbour is giving them, but it's not the same. Nelson had lots and lots of cuddles this afternoon. 

Melancholy also because this little corner of paradise that I bought in 2011 as a bolt hole from the turmoil of life in Istanbul has witnessed so many happy times with good friends and significant times too, most especially the transition from employment to retirement in 2020 during covid and lockdown - and of course so many days with Graham and Kat, beers together in the communal garden.......

oh dear, what a ramble. 

Time to move on.