Dalyan – 28th to 30th September

I’d not seen The Aussies for a while so we arranged to have breakfast together on Sunday 28th September. I’d already checked that nearby Okyanus did a Turkish breakfast and they did, so I booked us in for 9.30am. We each had the Turkish breakfast with Turkish tea and extra pomegranate juice and it was so lovely. The total for the 3 of us came to 1,940 lira (£35.27) and we didn’t leave until gone 2pm. I was meant to have been spending time today on the book and planner content but I didn’t get the chance. I went home briefly and then set off for my next meeting with a friend at Books & Cookies. She’d just had another grandchild so was keen to update me and had plans to visit the baby in England. I had 2 cookies and a hibiscus tea plus a herbal tea for a total of 445 lira (£8.09). I had to dash back for a video call with Captain Caveman. He wasn’t impressed at how expensive the flights to Dalyan were in October so he suggested we delay his visit. Of course, I was disappointed but there was nothing I could do and neither of us were willing to pay over the odds for flights.
That evening, I caught up on emails and then had some leftover food from Simple which tasted just as good being reheated.

Gratitude List
1. Breakfast with The Aussies
2. Afternoon tea with a friend
3. Leftover takeaway.

Rain was forecast on Monday 29th September and it was no surprise to me, as I was due to look after Norman, the dog, from tomorrow.
I had my first go at using something called a Trello board, an online whiteboard that can be shared for workflow and project tasks. I was using it for the handy travel planner I was working on – something to help anyone plan for, and have, a better holiday. I was also finding out quickly that I wasn’t a fan of Pinterest, at all.
There was also an early birthday celebration get together for Drew at Ela’s Kitchen. I’d asked one of the girls for a lift and hobbled down to Lukka bar to meet her but she’d forgotten. I couldn’t really justify getting a taxi there and it would take me too long to walk.
I’d just got back in and sat down when Jamie messaged to say he was coming to get me, on his scooter
I decided to have my favourite meal at Ela’s, the full English breakfast, and a large bottle of water. My food was excellent, and Nanny Kay’s lasagne looked very good too. Natalie made probably the best carrot cake I’ve ever had, for the birthday cake and we all sang Happy Birthday.
I paid 600 lira (£10.91) and got a lift back with Nanny Kay as it was raining. On the way back Nanny Kay and I arranged that she would come visit Norman and I later in the week, while Jamie and Drew were on holiday.

Gratitude List
1. A full English breakfast
2. Getting out for Drew’s birthday celebrations
3. Birthday cake.

On Tuesday 30th September Norman was pleased to see me and wasn’t unduly bothered that Little Daddy (Jamie) and Step Daddy Drew were off on their holidays. For lunch I warmed up a chickpea and spinach curry.
At 6pm, I was trying my best to get Norman to go out for a walk – he wouldn’t and went back to door to be let back indoors.
For dinner I made a mushroom pasta and then did some content writing. I also totted up my September budget, which had not gone well. I’d received a refund from the Yücelen of 3500 lira (£63.64) because they had decided I had overpaid. This meant that the entire amount that I had paid out, including 3 consultations, 3 x-rays, the translator services, 3 prescriptions and a compression bandage had come to just under £85. Despite having an unrealistic budget of £1000 for this month, I had managed to spend £1,890. Even though Captain Caveman had transferred some funds, I’d also had to take another £106 from next month’s budget, already. We had enjoyed Captain Caveman being on holiday for a week and the costs of a broken foot for that, though. October was going to be a tight month but I was ready for the challenge.

Gratitude List
1. Norman, still in good health and coping well without Edna
2. A refund from my health insurer
3. Having had an expensive but enjoyable September.

Dalyan – 25th to 27th September

Thursday 25th September was mainly a ‘getting stuff done’ kind of a day, given that I had taken a day off yesterday – the first one in a while. I was meant to be joining my parents tonight to go on a boat to Kingfisher restaurant but we had decided to wait until I could walk a bit better. Unfortunately, my favourite pen ran out so I messaged my Mom to ask her to get me a couple more if she was passing the stationers. I also needed some medication from the pharmacy so she said she would be able to do that, which was good of her.
We had the Resort Experts team meeting where we discussed that Classic Collection were ceasing taking on any new bookings, which we were all shocked about. I had clients booked with them so it was reassuring to know that all would be fine for any holidays booked for the next year, and would run as booked.
In the evening, I had a video call with a Sheffield friend where we talked about lots of different topics, including that her and her husband would be back in Dalyan at the end of next month. What I couldn’t talk about was that her hubby was booking her a holiday as a surprise for her birthday next year and I had to keep it quiet – that was tricky! I also had a video call with Captain Caveman who was sat outside the Sun Inn, in Barnes, freezing his bits off.

Gratitude List
1. Knowing my clients who booked with Classic Collection would all still be looked after
2. Chatting to my friend without revealing the secret holiday plans
3. Speaking to Captain Caveman.

On Friday 26th September I was busy with work stuff as it was a lot of people’s pay day weekends. I had enquiries to do and I was hoping to get finished in time for a soirée I had been invited to that evening. I had more pasta bolognese for a late lunch as I was running out of time.
In the afternoon, I surprised a few of my colleagues, at Resort Experts, when I confirmed the ideal holiday for my friends. When I’d started this enquiry 37 days ago, I’d asked in the group chat for any help or advice from other Resort Experts who had more knowledge than me on USA, Canada and cruises – as these were areas I had the least knowledge in – I’d only been to New York once about 20 years ago! At the time I had replies saying that what the client wanted to do was impossible for the budget they had set. I called on friends outside of Resort Experts to help me, as well as an amazing lady at Travelpack. Over the last month, I’d contacted Norwegian Cruise Lines directly and I did endless training webinars and read up on all that I needed to know. So today, when we had confirmed the perfect holiday for the client and under the budget I was proud of myself.
I sent all the confirmation to the joint email adress as instructed by the husband booking it, then waited for his wife, my friend, to see the surprise. It took a while but when she did, we all had a video call and it was honestly the best feeling to have sorted out her birthday trip which included a 12 day cruise. She was so happy and I was relieved it exceeded her expectations.
After the call, I went over to Jamie and Drew’s where they were having a BBQ. I arrived with a bottle of Prosecco just in time for food and to find the party in full swing. I had a glass of Prosecco which got knocked over in to my chicken & salad and on to Nanny Kay’s crotch. We played loads of silly games and had a good laugh. After a couple more drinks, I ended up leaving just after Nanny Kay. It was about to get messy as I heard 3 people jump in the pool around 11.30pm. I’d taken no photos as my phone was almost dead.

Gratitude List
1. Being busy with Resort Experts
2. Getting the holiday booked for my friends
3. Having a good laugh at Jamie & Drew’s BBQ, especially when Nanny Kay had to cycle home with a soggy crotch!

Ma & Pa were off to the market on Saturday 27th September and had asked me if they could get me something. As they were coming to bring me some other stuff, I accepted their kind offer and they brought me nectarines, bananas and grapes. Mom wouldn’t take any money for the fruit so I wasn’t sure about the prices. But here’s what else they picked me up, with prices in lira;

Stationers
2 pens 200 lira (£3.64)

Şarküteri
250g Lurpak butter 345 lira (£6.27)!!!

Balcı Pharmacy
2 packs Contraceptive pills 658.36 lira (£11.97)
20 Ketoprofen 100mg 108.69 lira (£1.98)

I was shocked at the price the butter had gone up to and decided I would have to use it very sparingly. My parents didn’t stay long as they wanted to get back and rest up, ready for a trip to Ölüdeniz with friends tomorrow.
I ordered some water which came immediately and cost 100 lira (£1.82) for 19 litres.
That evening, I couldn’t be bothered to cook and I hadn’t remembered to get anything out of the freezer. I decided to treat myself to a takeaway, a first in a very long time. I contacted Onur at Simple and ordered beef noodles and a crispy chicken with fries. I decided I would eat half of each and save the rest for tomorrow. It cost 800 lira (£14.55) for the 2 dishes, including free delivery and was absolutely delicious.

Gratitude List
1. Shopping from Ma & Pa, which I really needed
2. Having a water delivery service
3. Delicious food delivery from Simple.

Dalyan & Ekincik – 23rd & 24th September

After the excitement of yesterday and knowing there was an outing planned tomorrow, Tuesday 23rd September was a day spent at my desk. I had lots of bits and bobs today so I worked down the to do list and ate nice food.

In the evening Captain Caveman and I both looked for flights for him to come to Dalyan but they were looking quite expensive for the dates he needed. We were still planning on flying to Vietnam for Christmas and Captain Caveman had seen some flights from the UK.

Gratitude List
1. Nice food
2. Flight searching for ourselves
3. A fairly calm day.

I took the day off on Wednesday 24th September as Jamie had invited me on another boat trip. He had friends over on holiday and there had been a spare place for me.
Before that, I got on the home scales with it being weigh day. I had put on 0.95kg (2lb) which was hardly surprising. On my measurements, my bust had increased by 1cm, my hips had remained the same and my waist had lost 3cm.
Of course, I was about to potentially make it worse by going out for the day.
Jamie & Drew had organised another day out with Captain Ünal on Duran Duran boat to Ekincik Bay. We did the usual boat trip which never gets boring and everyone had a fantastic day. It was quite choppy in parts so I plonked myself in the shade at the back of the boat while most of the others were up the front or on the roof making the most of the sunny weather. Mick, Nick’s Dad, kept me entertained with his hilarious Sheffield banter and we had some delicious food. Nick played mother and got me my plate of food which was really lovely, as always.

I didn’t do any swimming as my foot was hurting so I just chilled out. On the way back I had to have a second sea sickness tablet and also gave a couple out to others who were feeling a bit iffy. We stopped at Little Dalyan for fruit and cake while seeing some turtles. By the time I got back, I was super tired and drowsy but everyone was going to Lukka bar so I did too. Instead of alcohol, which I’d had none of for 3 weeks now, I ordered one of their excellent milkshakes. Everyone carried on their night and I was told later most ended up in Sofra bar. I needed my bed as I was exhausted.
I’d spent a total of £45 today and had a very lovely day – I wouldn’t need any dinner and I ended up falling asleep on the sofa.

Gratitude List
1. Losing centimetres from my waist
2. Being invited on another boat trip
3. Having such lovely food and fun company.

Photo credit – some photos by others on the boat

Dalyan & Ortaca – 22nd September

I had an appointment for my next hospital check up at 9.30am on Monday 22nd September. Ian and Janet had very kindly offered to take me, so I was up early having tea and toast before leaving at 8.45am. There were updates that the fires in the area had now been put out, which was great news.
It had been less than 3 weeks since I broke my 4th and 5th metatarsals in my foot and I was optimistically hoping to be given the all clear today. Once at the Yücelen hospital, Janet insisted on pushing me in a wheelchair. Not surprisingly, this made the whole visit so much more efficient, and less painful. Umut the translator was back, the orthopaedic doctor was pleased to see me and I was whizzed back and forth to the payment desk and x-ray room. As I had already used 80% of my 5,000 lira (£91) limit, under my outpatient provision on my health insurance, I was fully prepared to pay for my consultation, x-ray and any other costs. I’d already researched this and the girl at the desk said she would ask about getting me a discount as it was related to the same issue. While they sorted the bill, I went with Umut to the x-ray room where he took photos of my latest (and third) x-ray. When the doctor had me back in, he was very pleased and said it was healing well and I could now start to go swimming but I still needed to be careful and not walk without the crutch for perhaps another few weeks. I asked if I would now be allowed to fly and they did indeed say they could provide a fit to fly letter, should I need one. I could tell that the orthopaedic doctor wasn’t a fan of my Vietnamese porter sandals and he suggested that it might be a good idea to wear more supportive shoes. He also said to the translator that he had never had such a happy and positive patient. That made me laugh as I’d certainly not been feeling that way lately – maybe it was the painkillers which he offered me more of! I shook his hand and thanked him for all his help, I also said I would keep in touch with Umut via his Instagram so that I could follow his Japan adventure. I paid the bill of 4,375 lira (£80) not knowing at the time that I would end up being reimbursed for a chunk of it. As I’d not been able to drink any alcohol while on the medication, I had decided I would put 200 lira (£3.64) in to a glass for every day without having had any booze. That was easily what I might have ordinarily spent on drinks on average and I now had 3,800 lira (£69) saved up. Umut wheeled me back to the entrance where Ian & Janet were patiently waiting, then we left to go for a breakfast in Ortaca. At Cetem, a lovely cafe not too far from the hospital, we all had at least 1 Turkish tea, Ian ordered the menemen, Janet had pancakes and I went for the Turkish breakfast – well, I don’t get out much these days. I really enjoyed the food as well as the company and we did have a good laugh. Our waitress was really sweet and kept checking everything was ok while trying to clear the plates before we finished (not uncommon in Turkey). The bill came to just 1,200 lira (£21.82) and we were all stuffed. Janet and Ian nearly didn’t let me pay for breakfast and I had to put up a bit of a fight. Their kindness didn’t stop there, though, as Janet had got some new sandals which I’d been admiring so they even drove me to the same shop so that I could try on and buy a pair. They were Lumberjack velcro sandals which made me look like a fully fledged ramp user but, as soon as I put them on, they felt like I was walking (limping) on air. I was sold and, although I probably could’ve got them cheaper online, I was more than happy with the service of the sales assistant who made sure they fit properly and the fact that I had them straight away. I thought they were worth every lira at 1,900 lira (£34.55) and I was so pleased that Janet had recommended them to me as I would not have considered them otherwise. I must admit, I’d even tried on a pair of crocks (in desperation) but they weren’t comfortable for my foot.
We drove back to Dalyan and Ian dropped me right outside the door, Janet helped me to get inside the apartment with my new purchase and I was safely back home by 1pm. I felt a lot better knowing that my foot was healing and that I could potentially start to swim. I had some water then put my new sandals on in the house so that I could practice walking about in them. The bad foot fastened to about half way with the support bandage on which meant it was much more comfortable. I didn’t need any lunch and I did lots more cruise training in the afternoon. I was really fancying a Nile cruise in January 2027, now that I was learning all about the different types. At 8pm, Captain Caveman called me from London to have a video call. He was pleased that I’d had such a lovely morning with Janet & Ian and relieved I was getting better. At 8.30pm I warmed up more bolognese to go with pasta for dinner and then had an early night.

Gratitude List

Janet & Ian’s help and company
A good result at the hospital
New footwear.

Dalyan – 20th & 21st September

I woke up with my foot throbbing and itching at 7.15am on Saturday 20th September. The skies outside were still a little smoggy and the nearby fires were still ongoing. There were some posts on Facebook about local charities sharing, or not sharing, money donated from a recent event which involved some friends. I decided to leave all of the Facebook groups this related to as it was getting silly. I also did a sweep of any other Facebook groups or pages I followed that I no longer had time to follow and removed myself.
I had a cup of Yorkshire tea and some cheese spread on toast for breakfast then did a little bit of work and caught up on my blog posts.
Debbie very kindly went to the Saturday market for me again this week and here’s what she bought for less than 200 lira (£3.64), which I was delighted with;
2 onions
2 potatoes
Mushrooms
Red & Green peppers
4 carrots
1 lettuce
Bananas
Green Grapes
The lettuce alone was 50 lira (91p) which Debbie was unnecessarily apologetic about, given that they were cheaper last week. She also gave me more fresh figs, some black grapes and plums from her own stash. We had a drink and a chat, which was nice.
Later, Ma & Pa called in with some quark and bread for me from the shop. They didn’t stay long as they were off out with friends on a Dalyan night out. I warmed up some pasta Bolognese for dinner and spoke briefly to Captain Caveman who was working on site this weekend in North Wales.

Gratitude List
1. Cutting out the Facebook group crap made me feel better
2. Market produce brought for me by Debbie
3. Bread and Quark from my parents.

On Sunday 21st September I rested up mostly and caught up with some writing – I was quite behind. I treated myself to a bacon sandwich with the last packet of bacon from the freezer and the loaf my parents had brought yesterday.
I contemplated inviting my parents over for a meal but they were having a rest day as it had been a late one last night. Meanwhile, I was feeling the benefits of not having had any alcohol for 16 days with several more to go. Captain Caveman was in Newark meeting up with some friends for a Sunday lunch.
I reheated a roast chicken meal for my Sunday dinner and even treated myself to some gravy. I tried to have an early night, as I was up early for another hospital visit tomorrow morning, but I couldn’t sleep because of my foot pain and I had already taken the maximum amount of pain relief.

Gratitude List
1. Bacon
2. Writing
3. Sunday dinner.

Dalyan – 15th & 16th September

It should have been my last painkiller on Monday 15th September but, as advised by the doctor, I started my next packet. This meant I was affected by them and not 100% focused. I had to also make sure I wrote everything down so that I didn’t forget or get distracted with all my daily tasks, which were mounting up. Ironically, I was starting to get busier and had several ongoing enquiries to deal with at once. My bad foot had started to have dry skin/peeling directly where the fracture was which was weird.
I had beans on toast followed by figs and nectarines for brunch. I drank lots of water and herbal tea too.
In the evening, I was asked to meet my parents and The Aussies so I decided to combine them together and suggested Lukka bar, with it being my nearest place. I ordered a vanilla milkshake thinking the calcium in the milk would do me good but it probably wouldn’t make a difference due to the sugar in it. Greg turned up without Amanda because she hadn’t been feeling well. I had another 2 drinks of soda water so my bill came to 500 lira (£9.09) including a small tip so wasn’t bad for an alcohol free night.
We said bye to Greg, who was off to get a kebab before going to check on his wife.
I was on my way home to eat when my parents convinced me to join them at Duble and the thought of a good chicken soup sounded lovely. Ibo, the owner, had chicken soup on tonight so we ordered 3 and it did not disappoint. I had prawns for my main which came with chips and salad. The meal was very nice and, of course, I didn’t drink wine with my parents – just water. When we came to pay the bill, my parents insisted on paying which was lovely. They also walked me back home as the automatic light on the stairs doesn’t stay on long enough for me to get up them safely.

Gratitude List
1. Painkillers
2. Milkshake
3. An impromptu meal out with my parents.

It was a very busy day on Tuesday 16th September and, if I’m honest, I was struggling with the pain. It was also very hot despite having the AC on and I’d not been able to attempt doing any hoovering or laundry yet as I couldn’t carry the hoover or the laundry basket to hang it out very easily. So the chores were mounting up and the house looked a bit messy, which bothered me as I like to keep things neat.
I warmed up some chickpea and spinach curry for a very late lunch at 3pm and had to prop my foot up and ice it around 6pm. I finally ate a beef stew that I’d thrown in to the slow cooker, around 8.30pm and almost fell asleep on the sofa shortly after.

Gratitude List
1. Batch cooking food
2. Having a slow cooker
3. Resting

Dalyan – 13th & 14th September

It was market day on Saturday 13th September and I’d offers from a few people to get me some shopping in, should I need it. I was running low on a few items so I asked Debbie if she would mind grabbing me some items. I spared my parents having to carry their own stuff and mine but did ask if they would get me some items from the shop, including a wholemeal sliced loaf for toast.
The water man came and, luckily, he always brings it upstairs and replaces it in the cooler, all for 100 lira (£1.82). Debbie arrived in the afternoon and brought me nectarines & onions from the market, figs from the garden and a Dido chocolate bar and some homemade cookies. It was a lovely treat and we sat and had a good natter over a cup of tea. I should send her to the market more often as it came to less than 100 lira. My parents arrived with shopping and it was hot outside as Dad moaned about Mom forgetting the shopping list. Ma bought me a loaf, a whole chicken and some cheese spread. They didn’t stay as they were a bit out of sorts with the heat, and Dad didn’t even notice Debbie was there.
That evening, I made a chickpea and spinach curry with steamed rice, which was very tasty and had spare for the fridge/freezer. I also had some naan bread in the freezer which I had to go with it.

Gratitude List
1. Having people who were able to go shopping and to the market for me
2. Tea and a chat with Debbie
3. Curry for dinner.

I’d toyed with the idea of inviting my parents round for a Sunday dinner on Sunday 14th September, not quite sure if I could hobble about long enough to cater. They had been here a week already and I’d only seen them twice. It turned out they were busy when I asked if they had plans but I decided if I cooked a roast chicken anyway, it would make me quite a few meals for the week.
I had fresh figs, nectarines and cheese for breakfast, which was delightful. I had beans on toast for lunch and then excelled myself on the roast dinner – I even did stuffing (but no Yorkshire puddings).
It tasted lovely but I think I’d overdone it as the washing up took longer than I thought and my foot hurt a lot. By the time I spoke to Captain Caveman at 8pm I was tired, in pain and emotional. He reminded me that it was not even 2 weeks since I broke 2 bones in my foot and that I needed more rest.

Gratitude List
1. Having nice food
2. Being able to cook for myself still
3. Knowing that things could be a lot worse and I would get better soon.

Dalyan & Ortaca – 12th September

On Friday 12th September I was due back at the Yucelen Hospital for my first check up. It had been 8 days since I was there and the conditions of the insurance policy state that you have to go before 10 days, so I was early due to it being a weekend. Jamie had kindly agreed to drop me off and pick me back up, as he was nipping in to Ortaca anyway. He brought Norman, the dog, and he dropped me off around 11am. This time, Umut the translator wasn’t there so I went to the osteopathic doctor first. He looked at my foot, looked confused and sent me to the pay desk then for another x-ray. I walked to each, and was surprised at how well I managed to not slip on the floor that was being buffed directly in front of me by an oblivious employee. At the pay desk reception I was asked if I had all my insurance documents and asked by a female translator if I’d got a copy of my statement of what happened to injure my foot. I didn’t as I’d never had one so she helped me with what to write and the translation in to Turkish. I then paid 1559.84 lira (£28.36) for my consultation and 2nd x-ray. The x-ray concluded it was still broken and the doctor then told me I should not be walking on it, or swimming and that I needed to keep my foot up and rest it! I was to only remove my brace to shower and to sleep with it on – I hadn’t been! The walking in the hospital wasn’t helping! He said it could take 3 – 6 weeks to heal but I needed to come back in another 10 days to have another check.
Jamie picked me back up, I went to the pharmacy and got more Ketoprofen Painkillers for 108.69 lira (£1.98) before going home to sit on my bum. I warmed up some pasta Bolognese for lunch, caught up on emails, fell asleep on the sofa and then made mini wrap pizzas for dinner. I finally got a call from Captain Caveman at 9.30pm, he’d temporarily forgotten I was due for my check up as he was so busy with work.

Gratitude List
1. Jamie giving me a lift to the hospital
2. Managing to deal with things at the hospital without help
3. More medicine.

Dalyan & Ekincik – 11th September

Jamie had invited me to join him and some friends on a boat trip on Thursday 11th September and it had been booked long before I broke a couple of metatarsals. I had already paid my money to Sioned to go on Captain Unal’s Duran Duran boat and didn’t want to miss it because of being in pain. It has been a week since I’d not seen that very small step! It was also a good chance to catch up with my parents, Nanny Kay, Jamie, Josh & Martha, Ann & Stuart, Karen & Shaun, Julia and Evie. The boat was moored the nearest to home that it could be, which was good for me crutching to get there. I took a seasickness tablet as well as my medication and I was well away before 10am. We sailed to Ekincik and, as usual, we were served welsh cakes and other nibbles with our hot beverages. It was a lovely day out albeit limited because of my mobility but I did manage to get down the lovely disabled friendly steps to go for a swim. The lunch was great and my mom was kind enough to do the buffet run for me. The food was amazing with extra meatballs being dished out by Ünal. In the afternoon there was a delicious cake with fruit. It was probably one of the best I’d had on this boat too – I really did need to just stick to the fruit next time! I was a little sad that Captain Caveman was back at work in the UK and unable to be here for this trip. Due to my medicine it was another alcohol free day, too, and I wasn’t really missing drinking.
After the trip, I was tired and resting up on the sofa while adding stuff to my to do list for tomorrow.

Gratitude List
1. Being on another one of my favourite boat trips with lots of friends and family
2. Going in the sea and managing to get back out without further injury
3. Amazing food on the boat.

Dalyan – 9th & 10th September

On Tuesday 9th September I was eating breakfast and looking at flights to go to the UK in November when I saw a message from Jamie on the work group chat. He had won a free trip to Antalya for 5 days in October. It was the day after his holiday with Drew to Kos where I was already looking after Norman, the dog, so I replied to say Congratulations and that I could extend the dog sit by 5 days if he needed me. He didn’t have time to respond before I had checked my emails to see I had also won a place on the same Fam trip with Anex Tours. Sod Norman, the dog, I was going. It was the best thing that had happened in my 11 months as a Resort Expert. Jamie and I had a quick call, got very excited and he had arranged for Drew to do the dog sitting. Next month we would be at a 5 Star All Inclusive resort in Antalya and we were super excited.
I worked extra hard that day with a rest for a cup of tea in the afternoon as my foot was throbbing.
In the evening, I got some bad news; the Turkish classes that were due to be starting back this week were no longer going ahead. Our teacher, Sioned, had decided she needed to focus on her family and could no longer commit to them. I was disappointed as I really enjoy them but I understood her reasoning.

Gratitude List
1. Winning a work trip
2. Getting to go to Antalya for work with Jamie
3. Having a zero spend day.

It was Weigh day on Wednesday 10th September and I was keen to know just how much damage my 16 days of holidaying with Captain Caveman had done. However, I was groggy, in pain and too busy to get to Fat Club, even if I could walk there a bit quicker. I also had a visitor; Jamie had to go to Fethiye and had dropped Norman, the dog, off for me to look after at 8am. I wasn’t quite sure how taking him for a walk would pan out but he seemed quite happy on the sofa while I worked. He had clapped the weight on too so I was in good company. I think Jamie had been giving him Edna’s share of the snacks since she’d passed away.
At 12.30pm, I decided Norman might need a tinkle and I attempted to get him out for a walk. He wouldn’t go down stairs and just stood at the top watching me! I’d been down and back up for no reason while Norman thought it amusing.
For lunch I had cheese, olives and nuts followed by fruit and quark. Captain Caveman asked me to look at flights for him to visit in October but they weren’t cheap. We might need a Plan B.
Jamie came back for Norman and we said farewell, he wasn’t impressed we were leaving him to go off on a jolly next month, but we thought it was funny. Carol from Fat Club popped by with her scales so I could see how fat I was. I had put on 2.2kg (5lb) in the last few weeks – I’m surprised it wasn’t more but I was now back to the weight I was at the end of September 2024!!!
For dinner, I made myself some veggie noodles which tasted ok, I was determined to lose the weight despite not being able to walk much. I continued working until I started to fall asleep and then went to bed. I’d got a day off tomorrow.

Gratitude List
1. Having Norman, the dog, come over to see me
2. Nice healthy homemade food
3. Not putting even more weight on.

Dalyan – 8th September

I think the phrase ‘I didn’t know my arse from my elbow’ was pretty accurate on Monday 8th September. Firstly, I hadn’t slept well on account of not getting to sleep until after the non-jazz playing Jazz bar had closed around 2am and by then I was tracking Captain Caveman’s flight. Secondly, I’d not heard from my parents to say they had arrived but I imagined they wouldn’t have their UK phone on and would have no Turkish Wifi. Finally, I was in pain with my foot and kept waking up so I was rather exhausted on my first day tackling the Resort Experts to do list. I didn’t even have chance to have breakfast before sorting out a few emails and booking in for some training sessions that were due this week. My mom messaged me to ask if Captain Caveman had got off ok and I let her know he was already back in Barnes, ready to start work. They had loads to do including getting the internet put on, which was in my name. I was very pushed for time and knew I couldn’t walk to the shop and back very quickly so Ma went on her own and sorted it. At 11am I ate some fruit and quark for a late breakfast, with a cup of sage tea. Around 4pm I finished off the White House beef wellington which warmed up nicely in the air fryer.
For dinner, my parents were keen to get out for a meal and I agreed to join them, with it being a while since I saw them. It also meant that they could help me up the stairs in the dark now that Captain Caveman had gone.
They chose Duble so I hoped they had chicken soup but they still didn’t. Dad and I had liver (again) and Mom had a seafood pasta dish. I drank water and my parents had a beer. I paid the 2,610 lira (£47.45) bill as my parents had been good to us when I visited the UK last time, letting us stay at their house. It was a very reasonable price for the 3 of us and we all enjoyed it.

Gratitude List
1. Getting through the day without falling asleep
2. Having my parents back in Dalyan to help me up the stairs if I needed it
3. Dinner at Duble with my parents.

Dalyan – 7th September

Sunday 7th September was a busy day as I prepared for Captain Caveman leaving and my parents arriving. My parents’ flight was due to land at 10.20pm and Captain Caveman didn’t need to leave to go to the airport until 11.30pm at the earliest, however, I thought it would be a lovely idea to arrange for Captain Caveman to say hello (& goodbye) to Ma & Pa at the airport. My ‘crazy’ idea was that Captain Caveman and I would set off to Dalaman airport much earlier than required for his 1.20am flight on Monday morning. We could be at the Arrivals exit to jump out of their taxi, say hello and then leave Captain Caveman while the 3 of us headed back in the taxi to Dalyan. My parents last left Dalyan almost 10 months ago so I was also thinking they might need some help putting on the electric and sorting out their apartment so they could get to sleep quicker and I could perhaps help. Captain Caveman had agreed despite knowing he would be stuck in the most expensive airport for way too long, I wrongly assumed my parents would like this idea. Ma replied to say they would rather get straight off as they didn’t want to be hanging about.
My first mission for the day was to very slowly make it out for breakfast. Captain Caveman and I decided to go for a last day breakfast and treat ourselves to a large full English at Ela’s Kitchen. It’s not for the fainthearted (or those supposed to be doing Slimming World) but it is fantastic. Here’s what we had with the prices in lira – not the cheapest place in town but in my opinion it is one of the best;

1 Large bottle of water 100
1 Espresso 130
1 Yorkshire Tea 150
2 Large breakfasts 1,190
Tip 100
Total spent 1,670 lira (£30.36)

What a treat and we even asked for extra toast which we weren’t charged for – my eyes were bigger than my belly, even though I gave Captain Caveman my eggs and tomatoes (why he needed more toast). While we were at Ela’s we noticed a sign which stated they would not serve people who were half naked. This was a good move, however, a guy sat down under the sign and then took his shirt off! He didn’t get served and had to take his order away but the young waitress was clearly really embarrassed. While I crutched back home, Captain Caveman nipped to the shop for peppers and courgettes.

I rested up all afternoon while Captain Caveman sorted his packing and the moving of anything I might need/not around the house. We obviously didn’t need a lunch and I wasn’t mobile enough to do any cooking. Captain Caveman decided we should enjoy his last meal at Duble, another one of our favourite places to eat in Dalyan. Here’s what we had with prices in lira;

2 Lentil soups 250
1 Haydari 155
1 Beetroot 160
1 Hummus 170
1 Potato croquettes 165
1 Prawns 495
1 Liver & Onions 295
1 Red wine 140
1 Big Water 95
Tip 200
Total spent 2,125 lira (£38.64)

The food was fantastic and I felt so lucky to get all the prawns to myself as Captain Caveman can’t eat them. Ibo, the owner, was still chatty despite the place being really full. A couple even got turned away and told to come back later as it was so busy.
I really had been spoiled today although I was quite drowsy from the medication and the walking about when I had to say bye to Captain Caveman. Sonuç picked him up at 11.30pm but I didn’t go to the car to wave him off on account of me not wanting to come back up the stairs in the dark without any help. Hopefully, Captain Caveman would be coming back again in October, so I might get to see him soon.

Gratitude List
1. An amazing breakfast at Ela’s Kitchen with Captain Caveman
2. A wonderful dinner at Duble with Captain Caveman
3. Having had the best time with Captain Caveman in Turkey.

Dalyan – 6th September

Captain Caveman and I were having breakfast at home on Saturday 6th September. He was contemplating going to the dog shelter to walk some dogs. I was going to do a few bits of content editing for next week, being back at work, so that my 2 weeks off went smoothly. I also had loads of stuff to share from this holiday, with Captain Caveman, and couldn’t wait to get it on my business page.
Our friends Josh & Martha had arrived in Dalyan to join their family and they had booked the Princess of Ekincik boat for a private day trip, after I had recommended it. There had been a group chat to discuss requirements for the wheelchair user on board so I hoped it would be suitable and comfortable for all of them. For those who might need to know, a wheelchair up to 60cm wide will fit!
Martha got in touch to say that her and Josh had been delayed on their flight, after another passenger had a medical emergency, so they were super tired. She wanted us to join the trip so that we could catch up and help keep everyone lively. I was on the strong medication and lidocaine based sprays, so I was away with the fairies and said yes. I hadn’t accounted for the fact that I needed to walk all the way to the boat which took me absolutely ages. When I got there, Ismail mentioned that they do have a mobility scooter that they can collect disabled guests on, should I have needed it. I got a hot drink and sat myself down with my leg propped up until the others arrived.
When everyone got on board; Martha, her parents, brother and Josh, it was really nice to see them all and we got on great straight away. The wheelchair went on and off fine and was parked up so that Zac could see the amazing scenery as we sailed down the river to the sea.
The crew, the boat, the food, the drinks and the company were absolutely perfect and to see Zac be able to enjoy a boat trip in Dalyan was just fantastic. We had a couple of swim spots and even a visit to the back of the beach, Little Dalyan, where I kept Martha’s mom company on the boat while the others went off for a bit of adventure. I even had a cherry juice in a wine glass so that Trish wouldn’t feel alone in her red wine enjoyment – it was a real pleasure to see her have a bit of time to herself and not worry about Zac, who was in very capable hands.
When the family got back, they had enjoyed a jaunt over the beach to the sea and Captain Caveman didn’t fall for the joke of me having red wine in my glass – he knew I wouldn’t be drinking against Doctor’s orders. We then decided to go to the boat end of the beach so that we could see the tourist part and it was very busy. We saw turtles which was great as some of the guests on board hadn’t seen them before in Dalyan. We all enjoyed a really lovely lunch on board which, given that Captain Caveman and I had decided to join only this morning, was plentiful.
After spending the rest of the afternoon on the boat and enjoying ice creams, then some cake with fruit, we returned to Dalyan at gone 5pm. I’m not mentioning any names but I think more than 1 of us had a power nap, as we were just so relaxed.

That evening, after resting my foot, Captain Caveman took me for a slap up dinner at White House. We both had my favourite meal, the beef wellington, which is just so good. Captain Caveman had wine and cocktails but I had water and a friend booked our table while waiting to chat to her boyfriend. Our bill was 4,000 lira (£72.73) which I thought was reasonable. Because of having eaten so much, though, I had to take half of mine home. Tomorrow was Captain Caveman’s last day in Dalyan and I wasn’t looking forward to him leaving.

Gratitude List
1. Having such an amazing day that it was difficult to pinpoint just 3 things to be grateful for!
2. The Princess of Ekincik boat trip, being so good.
3. Beef Wellington Dinner with Captain Caveman at the White House.

Photo credit – some photos by Martha and her family

Dalyan – 5th September

Captain Caveman decided to treat me to breakfast at La Sorella on Friday 5th September. We ordered;
1 water
1 Espresso
1 Green tea
1 Croissant
1 Croissant with banana, berries & chocolate

I forgot how much it cost, though, I was slacking! It was very nice and, as I wasn’t able to drink alcohol for the next 2 weeks because of the painkillers, I was happy to have a food treat instead.
While I crutched back home, Captain Caveman went off to do the shopping and made sure he stocked up on items I would find hard to carry once he left Dalyan on Sunday. Here’s what he bought on the first visit, with prices in lira;

Migros Supermarket
1 Red onion 7.59
3 potatoes 10.88
4 milk 43.60
Grapes 47.36
1 Protein Quark 55.95
Wraps 84.50
Fabric Softener 116.95
Nectarines 130.85
Washing Powder 505.95
Total spent 1,003.60 lira (£18)

It was sunny in the afternoon so we went to Okyanus so that Captain Caveman could have a few beers in the sun and we could meet up with The Aussies who we hadn’t seen for a while. We ended up having some food there too – here’s what we paid;

Okyanus
3 soda waters 210
1 Lamb wrap 420
1 pizza 440
3 Efes Malt beers 450
Tip 150
Total spent 1,670 lira (£30)

While Captain Caveman went off for more shopping, I went back home to rest my foot and get more medication. Here’s what Captain Caveman bought on his evening shop;

BIM Supermarket
2 packets of pasta 25.00
1 wholemeal loaf 29.50
2 Dido Chocolate bars 31.50
400g Mushrooms 49.00
6 eggs 65.00
Basmati rice 69.50
Toilet rolls 87.00
Bananas 95.68
Total spent 452.18 lira (£8.10)

Sok Supermarket
Carrots 35 lira (63p)

Şarküteri
2 tins of beans 170
1 tin coconut milk 100
Total spent 270 lira (£4.84)

We spent the evening at home and we had more friends arriving in Dalyan tomorrow to join family who had already arrived. I was in quite a bit of pain so I needed to sleep.

Gratitude List
1. Breakfast and a late lunch out
2. Seeing our friends
3. Medication

Cappadocia to Dalyan – 3rd & 4th September

On Wednesday 3rd September Captain Caveman and I were due to check out of the Mithra Cave Hotel and were thinking of staying 1 or 2 nights in the Göreme Cave Suites, which was fancier and had a pool. We were undecided as Captain Caveman had hoped to travel back to Dalyan via Eskişehir and take a scenic train back to Denizli. I was still sceptical that we could fit the trip in and return to Dalyan in time to see friends before Captain Caveman left Turkey. Captain Caveman decided he would get up to see the balloons again. The hot air balloon flights were super cheap at this time of year, at less than 50 Euros per person. However, neither of us wanted to do it.
We were still to decide what to do and we were thinking we might go mad and stay in the nicer hotel for a night or two. Captain Caveman had been looking at flights, trains and buses and weighing up the affordability. I was reluctant as I didn’t feel I should ‘waste’ the money.
After breakfast, I had to get my laptop out to do some work on a booking. We finally decided we should get back to Dalyan so Captain Caveman sorted out a flight and a transfer. I asked reception what time check out was (11am) then ask to extend until 2pm. Captain Caveman went off to buy more water and some travel snacks while I did a few things on my laptop. After checking out, I sat with the bags on a seat outside while Captain Caveman went sightseeing for the afternoon. At 5.30pm we were in a minivan on our way to Nevşehir airport for a flight to Istanbul. I remember two annoying passengers with tons of bags sat opposite us and that the driver had chatted up and taken the phone number of the young lady in the front seat, 7 minutes before we arrived at the airport.
We were delayed a bit which was eating in to the Lounge time at Istanbul that Captain Caveman had booked for us.
There wasn’t an awful lot of food left at the Lounge so I had some vegetables, rice and then later a plain bowl of pasta. I had 4 glasses of red wine, though. Captain Caveman drank beers and had a lovely chicken dish which I avoided in case it was too spicy. We boarded our flight from Istanbul to Dalaman on time and I fell asleep straight away.

Gratitude List
1. Getting to visit Cappadocia with Captain Caveman
2. Last minute flights and transfers working out
3. The Lounge, which was £20 approx each, so worth it.

We landed at Dalaman airport around 2am on Thursday 4th September and Sonuç, from Dalyan Transfers, was there to meet us. After some sleep, I woke up about 9am and Captain Caveman was getting ready to go Bumming with the Riverbums. Unfortunately, my day was not going to be quite as pleasant as picking up other people’s litter. I’d done something to my foot when I didn’t see a very shallow step and thought I’d stepped on a twig which had crunched. It was hurting, so I decided to go to the hospital to get it checked out.
While Captain Caveman went to Riverbums, I tried to make a hospital appointment but I was in a bit of pain and couldn’t really concentrate. I decided to ask Sonuç to take me to the Yucelen Hospital in Ortaca and get checked out. Captain Caveman had arrived back by the time I was leaving but he didn’t come with me. Sonuç had made me the appointment but when he looked at my foot he said he didn’t think it was broken and probably didn’t need to go. As I’d injured this leg 5 years ago I wanted to just check. I saw the orthopaedic doctor who touched my foot gently to see if it hurt, at first it didn’t, then I screamed out when he touched the bit that hurt. A translator was sent for, an x-ray was booked and I had to give my insurance documents and residency card to another receptionist. The walking between the different bits was starting to get tricky and extremely slow, but I managed.
The translator, Umut, was really good and we got talking about his trip to Japan. The x-ray person was friendly too and we went back to the doctor after, for him to tell me I had broken my 4th & 5th metatarsals. Oh dear. He gave me a prescription and told me to come back in 10 days for a check-up. I walked back to the pay desk where my insurer had already confirmed they would pay my bill, all but 875.16 lira (£16.21), and I had to sign a piece of paper. At no point was I told not to walk on it but I had crutches which Sonuç had picked up from Tay at Rehab bar. I was impressed with the service at the Yucelen and was back home by 3.25pm. I paid 2,000 lira (£37.04) for Sonuc’s services, too, which given he’d driven me about and waited there the whole time was a good deal. Although he’s not an official translator for medical stuff, he’d come in very handy and was great at taking my mind off the pain! I managed to cheese Captain Caveman off by not hobbling in to the chemist on my way back and assumed he would be ok to go and pick up my prescription for me. He was a bit put out but went anyway. The prices were as follows;

Balcı Pharmacy
Ketoprofen Painkillers 108.69
Naproxen spray 159.10
Frenag spray 247.21
Support Bandage 450
Total 965.00 lira (£17.87)

I was hungry as I’d not eaten yet today so Captain Caveman suggested we eat at Lukka, so I didn’t have to walk far. Here’s what we had with prices in lira from Lukka bar;

1 Sprite 110
2 small Draft lagers 170
4 Efes Malt 360
1 Philli cheese chicken sandwich 375
1 Crispy chicken sandwich 390
Total spent 1,405 lira (£26.02)

The food was lovely and a generous portion size – I’d somehow forgotten to eat sensibly this holiday!
I went back home for a rest and to put my leg up, the medicine can’t be taken with alcohol and I hadn’t known this so I would have to start the pills tomorrow as I had already consumed 2 halves of draft lager with a bit of lemonade.
We had no food in at home, on account of us coming home earlier, so for dinner we went out again. It took me far too long to hobble along to Ayaz, a fairly new local eatery. It was quite late so the staff were very apologetic to have run out of all lamb dishes. I had a chicken shish and Captain Caveman went for a chicken iskender. I had a fresh pomegranate juice and the whole meal was amazing at a great price, even though I forgot to note the prices.
On the way home, I bumped in to Aytaç Burçak Saraymine, my insurance broker. He wanted to check how I was and also how the service had been with the insurer. I knew the insurer would only pay up to 80% of any outpatient costs and I was happy with that. Aytaç invited me and Captain Caveman for a cup of Turkish tea with him and we sat and had a chat. I had been so happy that I had taken out the insurance with him. Lots of people (obviously, not experts) had told me that the cheaper insurance for residency wasn’t worth having but I certainly disagreed with that. My injury could’ve been a lot worse and cost me quite a bit just for not noticing a really small step!We stayed out until 11pm and I needed to rest my foot when I got home. The sprays were really helping and tomorrow I could start the stronger painkillers.

Gratitude List
1. Sonuç being available for hospital visiting
2. Not having a cast on my foot
3. Health Insurance covering 80% of the cost of my injury.