Kalí óreksi!

(that means "bon appetite" in Greek by the way!)

Today, as part of our ongoing orientation, we went to a Greek cooking class! (Mom you're going to be so jealous, but don't worry... I wrote down all the ingredients and instructions for you!) The chef taught us how to make Ravioli with Halloumi cheese, grilled Halloumi cheese on pita with tomatoes and cucumbers, and Keftedes, which are fried meatballs.

It was amazingggg! Thank you Momma for teaching me how to be so appreciative of food :) Did you know that in the houses of Greek families, if you leave without eating something that is 
considered rude? Actually, that goes for most Mediterranean households. Now I know where my family gets it from!






After cooking, we learned more about the "Cyprus Conflict."  (Now don't freak out and think I'm in danger or anything...) But, Cyprus is divided into two halves, the Southern part, where I'm residing, is controlled by Greek Cypriots, and the Northern half is controlled by Turkish Cypriots.  (this all came about when Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974... a little history lesson for you all today!) Nicosia, Cyprus's capitol (also where I'm living) is the only divided capitol ever.  You actually need a passport to travel between either side. 

So, yesterday, we were on a break in The Center of Nicosia and a few of us decided to go to the "North Side."  Instead of stamping our passports, they stamped a paper Visa, since it isn't recognized as a real country by the EU. The Turkish side was like going back through a time warp.  It was very quite.  And slow.  In the middle was a courtyard that was beautiful with older women knitting and a man reading the newspaper.  (see photos below)  And don't worry, we made it back to the other side alive!

Anyways, besides not being able to sleep on a normal pattern, Cyprus has been amazing. I really couldn't be more happy :)