The second short trip with our family was to a nearby town/city. It's home to a local Muslim minority group who migrated here some years ago from one of the 'Stan countries. We had a great time exploring a new place!
On the way, there was a section of road that cut and weaved its way through the mountains. The scenery was a complete surprise and thoroughly enjoyed. With the camera pointed out the window, a couple hundred photos were snapped. Below are a handful.
Next to the hotel we stayed at was an elementary school. When we arrived, some kids were piling into a small bus to head home. I went over to chat and take some pictures. Very cute.
Skipping rocks in the river near our hotel.
This garden and spring was quiet and pretty. It was located next to a mosque - which is reflected in one of the pictures. The garden would be an excellent place to spend a couple hours with a good book.
But outside this garden was a bit more interesting to me. We wandered the local streets - a labyrinth of narrow roads - and channels of water lined the small streets. We peered into the homes if their door was cracked. Behind large, elaborate doors, most homes had a central courtyard garden surrounded by smaller rooms - really neat to see. We had fun slowly strolling along smiling and waving to the locals. One older man taught me how to say 'hello' in their language so I took any opportunity to practice. And we made a young friend along the way. (He deserves two pictures.)
We sampled some of the local favorite dishes. This was a neat environment but definitely BYOT - bring your own tablecloth.
Meat prep
Sometimes it can be a bit tough to get off. The girls did prevail though. Val and Meg had the best expressions so they're featured on this post.
Remains of the meat and spicy bread - all so good.
Pasta prep
'Ding ding' noodles are ready! Very tasty. All five of us devoured every single 'ding.'
We ventured a bit out of town and did some exploring along the river ... and through A LOT of rocks into it.
Well, okay ... maybe not THAT many.
