As all good things must come to an end, we are making the most of our one day in Ankara before saying our good-byes to Country and friends. The first of our two highlights today was the Ankara (Geological) Museum, which just reopened this week after a two year restoration project. Even if you are not a museum fan, this one was amazing, covering from the Stone age through the Classical period.
This is a holiday weekend (Children's Day tomorrow) so we joined the "natives'" pilgrimage to the mausoleum of their national political hero, Ataturk (1881-1936), the founder of modern Turkey, who led a secular movement in a Muslim country. He is still sacred to the people for his ideas on separation of church and state.
A bit of "down time" this afternoon at our beautiful Hilton before we have our farewell dinner at a special restaurant tonight.
A word about the tragic mine accident in Sono his past week. We are geographically far away but now, in the capital city, are hearing of the demonstrations here against the government's lack of support and their lax attitude toward the community of these 300 lost souls and their families.
Our guide has let his opinions about the prime minister be known to us along the way! Sadly, we have felt part of this history-making experience.
Thanks to all of you who have hung in there these past two weeks, following along on my journey. Feedback is welcome as I continue to learn.
Home Monday (tomorrow) night.
Love to all!
Lainey
Pix: the Mother Goddess giving birth (especially for my daughter-in-law, Melissa!); gateway to Ataturk Mausoleum; Mausoleum; Hilton lobby
That top picture definitely looks like how I feel! (Giggling a little)
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