a dreamer's holiday: it's about the journey and the destination

On the first night in Istanbul I took a taxi to a recommended seaside restaurant. It was probably the freshest fish I have ever been served! Dinner was followed by an evening walk next to the Bosphorus, then to a rooftop bar for this spectacular view.

a dreamer's holiday: rooftop taverna

a dreamer's holiday: The Acropolis

This isn't exactly like the video we watched at the Acropolis Museum, but it helps paint the picture of the Partheon and its constant "remodeling."

a dreamer's holiday: The walk to the Acropolis

The New Acropolis Museum is one of the most amazing museums I have ever been in. The artifacts of every day life and the statues from the Parthenon blew me away. Since I am a very visual person I thoroughly enjoyed the video that showed in detail the Parthenon's transformation through the ages. They didn't allow any photos inside the museum or you know they would be on here too :) After the educational experience at the museum, we walked toward the Acropolis passing the Herodion Theater before reaching the Parthenon.

{previous Athens posts here}

birthday festivities...

On my birthday morning I awoke to my sweetheart surprising me with blueberry pancakes and bacon for breakfast. It was a perfect way to start the day.

Unfortunately the part of growing up that I don't like is working on my birthday. As a summer baby I am used to having the full day to play and celebrate! Ohhh, responsibilities... for dinner Lauren and David hired a babysitter (my Godparents) and so we went on a triple date to Anvil with Mom and Dad, L and D, me and Tison.

Saturday morning

 I invited some friends to:

We had so much fun!

Bring it on 28!!

Thanks everyone for coming.

28 years ago...

28 years ago today a pregnant woman went to the hospital and they told her she was in labor. She says, "Oh ok, I'll be right back!" Then proceeds to go get a manicure and a pedicure (Can you imagine what the lady at the nail salon must have been thinking!?) After that she went home and cooked meals for her husband so he would have food to eat for the week (God forbid the man is forced to go through a drive-thru)....then she went back up to the hospital and delivered baby at 8:58 pm. (All in a good days work, right!)

Can you guess who this woman is?

......my crazy mother on my birthday!

Mom, you are a superstar!

I think you have done a wonderful job with me, if I do say so myself ;)

evening light...

There is something about this picture that I love- that draws me in...the warm  sunset casting it's orange hue through this tiny street in Athens, the man crossing the street, the romantic dining table set up on the side of the road.....minus the woman's elbow in front of this shot I think it would be one of my favorites ever! :)

horsies & oysties...

On Sunday afternoon the Daltons invited us to their farm for horseback riding and oysters. It offered new experiences for everyone! Tison had never ridden horseback, I had never shucked an oyster, and Baby Hudson had never seen a horse before! After a trail ride around their gorgeous property we all pitched in for dinner. I can't wait to go back!

Hidden Acres Equestrian Center

a dreamer's holiday: Syntagma Square

Athens sightseeing is fascinating. A week before the violent riots took place in front of Parliament, we watched the changing of the guards. There were signs up everywhere and tents of people camping out in protest. Even spray paint covered the marble steps displaying the anger of the citizens. The best (or most memorable) part of visiting Parliament was witnessing one of the guards slip up on his footwork and wipe out while marching to his post in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. All 400 pleats of his fancy skirt- splat- right on the marble entrance floor! I was so stunned as he gathered his rifle and composed himself to continue the grand progression that I didn't even think to take a picture. Poor guy!

baseball & brewskies...

When I arrived in the Houston airport at the end of my trip, my friends were awaiting me with posters saying "We missed you!" I was overwhelmed :) Emily and Richard recently moved to Houston and I have been anxious to visit their new city! Fourth of July weekend was perfect. In great American style, we went to the Astros vs. Red Sox game...