Shopping top to bottom

While we strolled through the streets of Kayseri, Eric pointed out traditional items and encouraged the students to consider buying them: they are locally made, traditionally Turkish and inexpensive.  The collective shuffled shyly, not really wanting to deal with a shop that spoke no English.  But there was a particular pause at a little shop that had small woollen caps out front.  I decided to apply a little gentle pressure.

Going to one of the most stylish of the ladies, I offered to take a photo on my iphone of her wearing a cap and then she could see what it looked like.  Of course she looked adorable and she eagerly chose one, no two!  My camera was busy for ten minutes while more and more hats were thrown into the pile. 

Just doing my bit to help the local economy.

Another shopping moment came not a half hour later.  Eric had previously bought himself a pair of Turkish trousers and was encouraging the others, extoling their virtues of comfort.  Only one took him at his word, and Matthew bargained his way with a couple of streetside vendors.

First contact has been made!