Fear Factor?

None, whatsoever (not that I'm looking forward to the long trip). One of the reasons I'm writing this blog is to share this incredible experience with others. I do understand (and appreciate) that this big trip might seem scary to some, but I've built up to it with lots of travel experience. I'm looking forward to seeing many former students, colleagues, and friends there--and new folks, as well--and I know things will be just fine. This reminds me of the millennium, when I chose to go to Turkey amidst the Y2K fears. I spent Christmas up north with my mother, who just did not understand my ways. Rather than trying to explain to her, I gave long-time neighbor Carol instructions: "Look, if something happens to me, just tell my mother that I would rather die in Istanbul on the eve of the new millennium than die of boredom in @#$% Kansas." That still pretty much sums it up, and Carol will vouch for my story. Risk of squid eyeballs for breakfast? Still better than corn flakes any day of my life. And I'm livin' it! I'd love to hear from you while I'm away, and I'll respond as I'm able. Please keep reading!