Cyprus

For October half term break this year we decided to hit another island country to catch some last rays before we hunker down for winter.  We decided on Cyprus, a country we hadn't been to yet, and a location (more middle east than Europe, although technically European) that was sure to be warm in late October.  It hit all the right marks for sun, interesting things to see, wonderful food and relaxation!   

This trip was for some unknown reason the most relaxed I had felt in as long as I can remember.  So much so in fact that I came home with only 148 photos!  I know that is shocking for someone who would normally come home with 6,000+ photos on a week-long trip, but my urge to photograph left the building for some reason.  I have to say it was fabulous!  There were several days where I didn't even pick up my camera!  And I have no regrets.  The few photos I did take are good enough, and capture very much our experience there.

 Paphos

 Ruins of ancient Paphos

 Our fabulous pool at our fabulous villa. Have to say this was the best villa we have ever rented.  It was just amazing, and surprisingly affordable.  Holiday rentals are really the way to go when traveling with kids.  The infinity pool and our amazing view were easily the highlight of the whole week.

 Village of Peyia

 Old town Paphos

 A day at the beach, Coral Bay

 We spent one day in the capital of Nicosia.  Officially, depending on who you ask, it is a divided city.  And the only divided capital city in the world.  The country of Cyprus is officially, depending on who you ask, a divided country.  Northern Cyprus claims its independence against Southern Cyprus, although it is not recognised by the EU.  But to go into Northern Cyprus requires a passport check.  We crossed into the north on foot in Nicosia.  We were careful not to get a stamp in our passports, as to some, including Southern Cyprus, this will invalidate the passport.  The flavour of each is distinctly different, the south being more Greek and the north being more Turkish, Greek Orthodox and Muslim respectively.  In the north you see the Turkish flag waving all over, and in the south the Greek flag, almost more than the Cyprus flag.

 The ruins of Palepafos with the temple of Aphrodite

 Rock of Aphrodite

 Last day in Larnaca

At Home

Hard to believe we are now in our fifth year in the UK.  This place truly feels like home.  I don't notice all the differences so much anymore.  Driving on the other side of the road doesn't feel like the other side of the road.  I am weather obsessed just like all my neighbours.  I forget my American accent, not remembering I don't sound like them.  In fact I don't actually hear the accents anymore, it all sounds the same to me now.  On paper I am still an immigrant, but in my heart I am home.  I like this feeling.  I am still me, but I am me here.  I am at home with my family here.  

 As with every place we've lived I've tried to keep a record for the memory book of life.  I've so appreciated all the photos we have of every place we have lived.  We have been in our current house for over two years now.  It's quirky.  It's old.  It's drafty.  But we love where we live.  This collection of photos was taken over the course of our two years in this home, through all the seasons.

 Dining room

 Utility Room

 Guest Bath

 Entry

 Downstairs office/crafting room/travel planning room

 Upstairs

 Reception Room

 Bedroom

Familly Bath

Teenager Room

Girly Room