happy republic day!

Eighty-eight years ago today, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk declared Turkey a Republic, officially dissolving the Ottoman Empire. Happy Cumhuriyet Bayramı, Turkey!

eighty-seven

Today marks the 87th anniversary of the founding of the secular, democratic Turkish Republic and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire. Red flags with white crescents and stars fly from every flag post, decorate the windows of homes, offices and schools, and fireworks brighten the night sky. Hopefully the giant clouds sailing in from the Black Sea won't obscure my view of the pretty pyrotechnics.

Happy Republic Day, my Turkish friends— Cumhuriyet Bayramı kutlu olsun!
I would also like to add a most heart-felt thank you, for making this nomad feel so at home in your beautiful country. Çok teşekkürler!