Beirut
After 3 days in Cyprus, a group of us took the 25 minute flight (!) over to Beirut to send out 2018 in style. I love Beirut for many reasons including the beauty of the city, the history, the delicious food, the trendy nightlife, the incredible people, etc. All of those could have essays written on them individually and many were covered in my last post on Beirut a few years ago, but this trip unveiled two new loves for me.
1- The Mineral Museum
Okay, yeah I know what you’re thinking - “Minerals? You mean like shiny rocks? Boo.” - and yes, I would have agreed a month ago. But oh my lord, these naturally occurring minerals are the some of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen. How are human artists supposed to compare with the magic that our earth can create without us?
Like, what? If I don’t find any other professional directions at the end of these three months, I fully intend on becoming a crystal hunter.
2 - Cats
So when I look back at my posts from 3 years ago I’m exceptionally proud of the number of times I was able to bring up Fireball organically into nearly every post. Sadly, over the last few years my fireball consumption has waned, but I’m pleased to announce that my newest obsession is even more incredible - Cats. One of the worst things about leaving for 3 months is being away from Denna, but fortunately for me, the American University in Beirut is known for being a safe haven for stray cats! During our hour or two on campus, I made dozens upon dozens of new best friends :).
I don’t know why all college campuses don’t recruit thousands of feline friends, but you best believe I’ll be writing a letter to Stanford’s President making my case soon.
Besides those two lovely encounters, we had a great time celebrating my last birthday before 30, and the Earth’s last birthday before it turns 4,545,362,432 (makes me feel young). Many thanks to the entire Cheaib clan for hosting us (especially Ruba and Marwan - you guys rock). Also special shoutout to Mehyo for being the only person who got me a birthday present this year even though he only met me earlier that day. And no - this isn’t a passive aggressive way of shaming everyone else who got me nothing...
Much love and check out more photos below.
