The Diary of A Dazed N Confused

CENSORSHIP

2012-01-18T09:21:00.001+02:00

#SOPA

This is what the web might look like under censorship by @migheille

#Fightrape Poster

2012-01-13T16:19:00.002+02:00

To be used and shared
Download

Thanks to Nadine Chahine from Arabic Type Today for the personalized poster

Bloggers Unite Against Rape

2012-01-11T09:15:00.014+02:00

A Round up of blogs supporting the January 14 Demo Against Violence and Rape

Arabic Type Today: Standing up for women’s right
Arabic Type Today: 3 poster signs for the march against marital rape
A Separate State of Mind: Fight Rape: The January 14 Protest
Beirut Spring: Why I Support The Demonstration Against Rape
Blog Baladi: No To Marital Rape
Corinne BouAoun: الإغتصاب مش كلمة بالتم
Fadi Bitar: Keep it secret, keep it safe
Farfahine: March against rape - Beirut

From Beirut With Funk
Half Eaten Man2ouche: March Against Rape in January
Gino’s Blog: Names and Faces of MPs Who Are NOT Against Rape + Protest on January 14
Reasons to believe: I would love to see a politician raped, then, let’s talk laws!
Lama’s Scrapbook: Taking our rights, there’s no other way
Lebanon Aggregator
Lebanese Nights: كل دولة لا تجرِّم كل أنواع الاغتصاب لا يُعوَّل عليها
Lebanon: Nasawiya Call to March Against Rape Laws
Lebanon Spring: The religious farm of Lebanon: marital rape is allowed

Mich Café: Lebanon to protest rape law
Paola Salwan Daher: Au Liban, Les Femmes Se Mobilisent Contre Le Viol et La Violence
Paola Salwan: The last fight is ahead of us
Ritakml: Women are human beings and an integral part of the Lebanese society

Rita Chemaly: Criminalisation of rape is a Must in Lebanon… join the protest on Saturday 14
Rouba Abou Zeid: One Week to Go!

This is Beirut: Stand up against sexual violence in Lebanon
The Rainbow Experience: Fight rape
Toom Extra

Outlaw Rape

2012-01-10T08:29:00.001+02:00

Wearing a short skirt and pouting one’s lips does not make you liberated!

Rich, poor

Educated, illiterate

Single, married, divorced, widowed

The law does not discriminate.

Most Lebanese are oblivious to the laws ruling them. On the surface, Lebanese women represent the epitome of modernity in the Middle East. The image reflected is a dream which is very far away from reality.

Rape, sexual harassment, abuse, domestic violence and spousal rape are injustices women suffer from on a daily basis in our modern society.

Unknown to most is article 522 in the Lebanese Penal Code which states that the perpetrator can redeem himself from the atrocious crime he committed by asking the victim in marriage. Washing his sins away, the rapist is absolved of his crime. Presuming the rape victim rejects the proposal, article 522 states that the felony is punishable by a six month jail term.

The notion of marital rape is not even acknowledged by the Penal Code (article 503 and 504), thus it does not constitute a crime.

All Lebanese women are concerned by this archaic law. The crime is perpetrated by the authorities. The prejudice the victims suffer at the hand of society and the legal system is offensive. Most women prefer to keep quiet. Rarely do they come forward and file a complaint. The injured party is at best shunned. Victims end up criminalized and are rarely vindicated.

The law against rape is long due for a change. Modernity start with the system.

Join the fight and march for your rights this Saturday, January 14 at 12pm from the Ministry of Interior in Sanayeh to the Parliament in Downtown. The significance of this movement extend to men as well, they are equally concerned. Men can be victimize and ostracized by the current establishment.

The demonstration against rape is organized by Nasawiya

Google Translate

2012-01-03T13:45:00.000+02:00

I see the work of Google translate

Taken last night in Hamra

This New Year!!!!

2011-12-31T12:25:00.001+02:00

Be Safe in 2012 by 21dB

K's Expedition

2011-12-23T12:29:00.003+02:00

Early saturday morning, I took the stairs. Using the stairs rather than the elevator is my latest quirk. I came across this bundle.

T'as pas entendu comme un bruit???

She, who turned up to be a He, was curled up and scared. At first, I thought it was a stray kitten who sought refuge from the cold during the night.

I am cute and I know it

Luckily, I was the only one he didn't run away from. At a certain point, he got scared when he heard some footsteps. Hastily, the refugee made his way into my purse.

Sanctuary

The poor thing was hungry. So, I got him some Emmental and water.

Relishing in some French cheese

It turned out to be Diego my neighbors' kitten who escaped their attention and decided an expedition was in order.

Diego was so small, he only managed to go down!!!

The following post will be offending sooo many

2011-12-02T09:26:00.003+02:00

Due to my growing ADD, i forgot to publish this post ten days ago... it was taking dust in my draft folder

This weekend, precisely around midnight this Saturday, I had my first non-vegetarian McDonalds meal of my adult life. Many of you don’t know that I was a lacto-vegetarian for over a decade.

I know many of you are appalled on many levels. I committed the ultimate sin for a vegetarian. Health gurus and nutritionist are disapprovingly banging their heads.

Food buffs are outraged by my lack of judgment... I tell you all it was worth every bite.

It was the craving of French fries *sigh* that haunted me all day that went unquenched. So close, yet so out of reach for many hours. I was obsessing!!! Yes, those golden monsters are a weakness of mine. I can go on in a detailed portrayal which some might find quite pornographic. So I will abstain.

Achilles Heel

After some greasy onions in my sandwich that took their toll on my stomach, followed by an aperitif at no other than Torino that lasted way longer than an aperitif should. Laugh all you can my aperitif was beer. Did I just offend another category???

Somehow aperitif is not the correct terminology as my light drink was post lunch. Therefore, I will refer to it as happy drinking hour.

I didn’t only have beer. I had two mango daiquiris and a Tabasco induced doodoo shot.

Doodoo

Now don’t go accusing me of being an alcoholic. I need my once-a-week fix. Three beers and two cocktails are quite harmless. Did I offend some more out there again? I am not advocating drinking. However I am entitled to cater to my pleasure.

This post lost its course from delighting in my first adult Mc Donald meal, it became offensive to different advocates.

My kind of felony: Mc Chicken

So, as you can tell I am going nowhere with this, I even lost track of what I had to say.

Oh yeah, I remembered *smirk*

Pst Pst, I forgot to mention that I got a Coke glass gift with my meal. Then and there I decided to eat my way through the whole collection

I wanna dive and get lost.. miam!!!

Cine-Concert by More Dust Under The Carpet

2011-11-28T15:41:00.000+02:00

For the second year in a row, the European Film Festival, this year in its 18th edition, presents a screening accompanied by a live performance. The festival which started on November 24th, is being held at Cinéma Metropolis Empire Sofil in Achrafieh.

Nosferatu: Eine Symphonie Des Grauens (a symphony of horror) is a masterwork of Germany’s Friedrich W. Murnau. It was released in 1922 to become Bram Stoker’s mythical rendition of Dracula. Murnau’s adaption is a chef d’oeuvre of expressionistic cinema.

The live performance was in total symbiosis with the silent film. The musical interpretation was enacted by More Dust Under The Carpet. The band is composed of Mazen Kerbaj (Trumpet), Paed Conca (Clarinet, Electronics and Electric Bass), Sherif Sehnaoui (Electric Guitar and Percussions), Stéphane Rives (Saxophone and Electronics) and Fadi Tabbal (Electric Guitar and Electronics)

I was lucky enough to be invited to attend Sunday, November 28th’s show by one of the performers as places sold out in no time. Another screening was added to the Festival’s program on December 5th, and t is not to be missed.

Tickets are on sale at Cinema Metropolis Empire Sofil. The rates are the following:

Films screenings: 4000L.L.
Students’ shorts: 2000L.L.
Cine-Concert: 10 000L.L.

Full program

Around The city: Beirut #5

2011-10-18T11:12:00.000+03:00

Inspiring woman

2011-10-17T11:29:00.001+03:00

Seeking to advance and promote arab women who makes a difference through their work or initiatives is the aim behind Olay Arabia’s Power Seven competition launched by the advertising agency Leo Burnett Mena, representative of Procter & Gamble Middle East. The winning contestant will be granted 20 000USD.

Suzanne Talhouk, the lebanese contender was chosen as one of the seven prominent women for the 2011 “Empowering Women, Inspiring Change” campaign. A purist of the arabic language, she revels her fondness through her poetry in her mother tongue. Talhouk who has an MS in physics from the Lebanese University is a published poet. Her first poetry book “I Am Not Just One Woman” published in 2009 was followed by “Till We Meet Again”. Both titles published in arabic are available in bookstore.

Talhouk chief work is through the NGO she founded in 2009. She presides over Feil Amer which preserve the Arabic culture and heritage. On June 26 2010, Talhouk launched the first edition of the Arabic Language Festival in Beirut. The location of the festival was picked for its symbolic significance. In the past Hamra street where the event took place, was the hub of Arab and Lebanese intellectuals. Due to limited resources, the Arabic Language Festival did not take place in 2011.

Feil Amer’s other mission “First Be Creative” is also to help rural women in the Lebanese villages. Her approach is distinct from other existing initiatives. The project is to provide them a chance while staying in their community for a change. Her aim is not only to teach these women a craft nor a trade but to promote their well being. Her concept of advancement is to encourage these women to explore the unknown notion of their own creativity. The self satisfaction gained will valorize their own worth as individuals.

The lack of funds hinder the task of her NGO fe3el Amr. Talhouk is counting on the prize from the Olay competition to continue her journey.

Click here to vote

2011-10-06T13:06:00.002+03:00

Celebrate the inspiration

Steve Jobs 1955 - 2011

The photo displayed above is the creation of Jonathan Mak

2011-08-31T19:27:00.002+03:00

Do you know Jade?
Jad????
Noooo, JADE
So, it's Jad
Jade mish Jad
JAD..... eh laa!!!
Wlak no Jade
eh khalassss

So among the endless parade of local artists we hear about and most (thank god) we don't is: Jade.

You don't know him?
Well here's your chance to. Come to Sporting Terrace minus the bathing suit on September 2

PS: I, sane of mind (I think I am) simply believe in the talent of this upcoming superstar.

Pst pst: This blog is not becoming a signboard

Doorstep surprise

2011-08-25T13:08:00.001+03:00

I found this baby lizard on my doorstep. He looked lost. He is almost transparent. This little one made my day!!!

Sorry for the quality of the picture. I took it with my phone.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The AltMedia Experience

2011-07-25T17:00:00.000+03:00

The AltMedia Experience begins today.

For the coming week, a series of workshops and events are scheduled. This is the first event organized by AltCity in their new digs in Hamra. The AltCity venture is a media tech and a social impact collaboration. The space which will be fully operational in the fall is an open and creative collaboration and workspace for media, social activism, entrepreneurs, etc.

Monday July 25 2011

Workshop: Basics of Cinematic Storytelling

By: Mo Rida A 3-part workshop. The first session will introduce participants to narrative structure in cinematic storytelling.

Time: 12:30 - 2:30 PM @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Using Digital Media for Citizen Journalism

By: Hibr Lubnani Participants will learn various digital media and mobile application tools to become active citizen journalists.

Time: 3:00 - 4:30 pm @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Writing Children’s Stories with a Message

By: Association for Volunteer Service Find out how to creatively embed a message in a children’s book, with a chance of having your children’s book published.

Time: 5:00 - 6:30 PM @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Open Discussion: For or Against Citizen Journalism

Time: 7:00 PM @ AltCity Main Space Organizer: Maharat

LAUNCH CEREMONY 20:00 - 20:30 AltCity Main Workshop Space
Tweet-UP & NetSquared-Beirut - FUTURE MEDIA Monday, July 25th. 20:00 - 22:30 AltCity Main Space

Tuesday July 26, 2011

Workshop: Cinematography: Visual Story Telling
Discover how to tell a story visually with an introduction to cinematography workshop.

Time: 1:00 - 2:30 PM @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Getting Over Butterflies
By: Toastmasters

Learn how to get over the butterflies in your stomach and speak fluently off the cuff. The session will include helpful tips on improvised speaking and an opportunity to put those tips to work.

Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Release Your Inner Clown

By: Yara Boustany

Express yourself in unimaginable creative ways and break out of your social limitations through clowning and various theater games. Dress comfortably.

Time: 5:00 – 6:30 PM @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Panel Discussion: Marketing X in Social Media

Organizer: Assad Thebian

Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PM @ AltCity Main Space

AltCity & 7ekeleh Spoken Word Night

Time: 9:00 - 10:30 PM @ AltCity Main Space

Wednesday July 27 2011

Workshop: Basics of Cinematic Storytelling

By: Mo Rida

Session 2 of Basics of Cinematic Storytelling.

Participants will learn how to develop characters and plots.

Time: 12:30 - 2:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Business of New Media

By: TBA

Figure out how to make money and establish a self-sufficient business using new media.

Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM @ AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Citizen Journalism Photography from A to Z

By: Rita Kamel

Beirut Street Photography Acquire the skills to take and use a powerful street photograph with your semi-professional camera.
Time: 5:00 – 6:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Reception: Nasawiya Reception

Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PM @ AltCity Main Space

Event: AltCity Comedy Night

Time: 9:00 - 10:30 PM

Thursday July 28 2011

Workshop: Cinematic Storyboarding

By: TBA Discover how to construct a storyboard in an introduction to cinematography workshop

Time: 1:00 – 2:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Internet Security

By: Mireille Raad Learn how to protect your online presence from hackers and spam.

Time: 3:00 – 4:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Tips & Tricks for Citizen Journalists

By Mashallah News & Hibr Lubnani Acquire all the tips & resources to become an impactful citizen journalist on- and off-line.

Time: 5:00 – 6:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Panel Discussion: Censorship & Self-Censorship

Organizer: Mashallah News

Time: 7:30 - 8:30 PM @AltCity Main Space

Event: AltCity Shorts

Time: 8:30 - 10:30 PM @AltCity Main Space

Friday July 29 2011

Workshop: Basics of Cinematic Storytelling

By: Mo Rida

Part 3 of Basics of Cinematic Storytelling. Participants will learn the art of visual storytelling, as opposed to that of the written story, (showing rather than telling).

Time: 12:30 - 2:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Workshop: Pro-Website Set-Up

By: Walid Karam, Ma3bar

Set up your own professional website in three hours using Open Source technology content management systems.

Time: 3:30 - 6:30 PM @AltCity Main Workshop Space

Panel Discussion: Alternative Music and Lebanese Culture

Organizer: Omar Al Fil

Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PM

Event: Alternative Music Night

Time: 8:30 - 10:30 PM

Places are limited, register on Eventbrite


The Alt Experience schedule

Here and there on the web:

connect@altcity.me

To Tweets @altcityme

AltCity on Facebook

Amy, back to black

2011-07-25T09:11:00.001+03:00

A life wasted away by drugs, alcohol and an eating disorder. This is how Amy Winehouse bowed down for the last time on Saturday. Her death immortalized her as she joined the drug addled club of the forever 27 along other famed rockers, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Jimmy Hendrix and Curt Cobain just to name a few.

Winehouse's voice lifted her to the ranks of soul diva Ella Fitzgerald. As a performer, she was a distinctive vocalist setting her apart from other artists of her generation. With her beehive, tattoos and cat-lined eyes, she created for herself a unique style.

Her talent was immense yet shadowed by her life's antics. Winehouse who was diagnosed as a manic depressive said No to treating her condition the same way she sang her tune Rehab. Winehouse was taunted by her addictions and her troubled relationships. Her tragic life was played out to the public. A so called video of her smoking crack was made public by The Sun. She attempted several rehab stints to no avail.

Amy, the song writer, the artist left us with a legacy of two records Frank and the highly acclaimed Back to Black.

Around The city: Beirut #8

2011-07-18T11:56:00.000+03:00

Your typical Sunday afternoon

By the way this is the only window, this place have

The Revelation

2011-07-15T08:49:00.002+03:00

You've seen the posters plastered all over Hamra. If you've been to Hamra and didn't see them, you're probably blind.

The speculation and predictions has been quite varied, ranging from park, Library to another Vero Moda.

This one teaser campaign was fun. A success!!!

HINT #1: There's no entrance fee
HINT #2: It's not outdoors
HINT #3: It's a nocturnal activity
HINT #4: What to do after Saturday night bar-hopping?

So, What is missing in Hamra???

Many came close to guessing. This event will be the beginning of a new experience in Hamra. On July 23rd, it's happening. Electro Fans will rejoice.

DRM did it!!!

DRM will be hosting the first clubbing event in Hamra. In the DJ booth, Djette and Diamond Setters with a bang will enthral us.

Don't say I didn't fulfill my promise. Expect another blog post event!!!

Update: I am not affiliated with DRM nor am I getting paid for this post.

All will be revealed

2011-07-14T03:01:00.000+03:00

HINT #1: There's no entrance fee
HINT #2: It's not outdoors
HINT #3: It's a nocturnal activity. It won't be a one time happening.

What has never been done in Hamra? You can say many things.

The speculations has been buzzing for a few days now.

All I have to say is that you definitely want to be part of this experience.

So all will be revealed Tomorrow until then you can add your juice on Facebook

Don't forget to come back friday morning !!!

My one on one evening

2011-07-13T07:43:00.000+03:00

I had the best date last night. Nothing can lift my spirit like burying my sorrow with Godiva

Miam

while listening to the XX's Hot Like Fire

2011-07-10T12:55:00.002+03:00

Hand in hand Cancer and Couture

Shocking title you might say. If that is the case then let it be.

Both start with a C. Yet one overpowers the other one,not so, not any anymore. Advancement in the medical field had made it possible that more survivors beat the other C, the evil C.

Nevertheless, once the evil C was neutralized, the survivors face the future with anguish. The risk of being overtaken never fades away and remains a possibility ever after. The comfort one finds in taking care and pampering oneself becomes a dreaded ordeal. This is one of the biggest problem breast cancer survivors face.

A survivor who doesn't opt for a reconstructive breast procedure after a mastectomy or a double mastectomy has a hard time finding a padded bra. The search for a bra that should compensate for the loss of a body part that represent a women's femininity turn into a reminder of how much this disease invaded not only a women's body but her life irrevocably.

An unprecedented initiative by One Wig Stand and Fustany.com to support breast cancer survivors in the Middle East is the Bras-For-A-Cause campaign. This first of its kind competition not only support the survivors, it is an awareness campaign. Competing side by side known designers and other enthusiasts non-designers unite for the same combat.

The five categories competing are Designer piece, Her Bra, Everybody Wants Me, Training Bra and Such a Tee-s.

I was lucky enough to be one of the ambassadors and to endorse one or in my case to two of the talents. Without further wait, let me introduce to Saanieh and alizey Murza. Their design Minx tagged #4 in the Her Bra category captivated my attention.

Half balconnet Her masectomy Bra

So the in the war of C, couture is one hell of a C.

The voting is currently being conducted online and the winners will be announced on July 14. The designs will be presented during a fashion show in Dubai and in Beirut later this year. The date(s) for the show are yet to be announced. I'll keep you posted.

Don't forget to link it, post it, tweet it,

Like it then link it again, repost it and tweet it again

So hurry up and vote for your favorite design

...Let it be me fav '...

Click here to vote for my gals !!!!

Seriously??????

2011-06-22T09:58:00.000+03:00

What the hell???

Almost two months has passed since I snapped this picture. We were on our way to a BBQ tweet-up somewhere on the way to Faraya. We all have witnessed the ingenuity of the Lebanese.

So after, endless days of self-debating, mumbling and wondering... I came up to a conclusion.
This conclusion equals my first reaction. It was that simple!!!

What the HELL???

Some un-canned sardine

2011-06-15T02:34:00.002+03:00

After a long wait and countless pleas, the Amazin’ Sardine did it. And it happened last night at Walimat Warde in Hamra.

Getting my hands on the goods

Hell’sTeeth Monday attracted a hoard of friends and fans. The event, as any respected Lebanese event, started an hour late. We were greeted at the door by Zena El Khalil aka Ziggy Doodle , founder of Xanadu. Once my entrance fee paid, armed with my book, which includes a DVD (looking forward to indulge in some Sardinesque) I made my way into the venue, followed by some chitchat and the downing of a Pure Malt Almaza... Knowing me, can one expect me to drink anything else!!!

The ongoing dedication session

Yes, were was I? Chitchat and beer.

So, after some chitchat here and there, including with the talented Amazin’ Sardine... I know him, I am not star stricken!

Meanwhile, Walima was filling up, the dj was playing his selected set, and a hazy cloud of smoke was gradually setting up the mood for the start of the event.

Don’t be fooled by this creature, he may seem to be a Sardine, yet under his poorly concealed fins, hides an unidentified creature.

The Amazin' Sardine

Preceding the Sardine’s loud and ghastly reading, D'n'B took up the stage. They rocked the house with their live performance. I had to leave right after took up the stage. Although, I tried to pull through. The smoke was overpowering.

The Amazin'Sardine and D'n'B

As I stepped out into the dark night, I could still hear mr. Sardine ghostly haunting voice.

As this book hasn’t been approved yet by the Lebanese censorship body... Let’s face it no sane or insane being will approve of any work by the Amazin’ Sardine. For all those interested in getting their hand on a copy, if you can summon up your courage, you can approach the author through his facebook, you can send this neophyte a tweeting bird or you can read his blog at your own peril.

This post will be followed in the near future by a review of “An Ever Receding Tide” on The Cube

Around The city: Beirut's Street Art#4

2011-06-13T19:59:00.000+03:00

I found this one on a street perpendicular to Sadat Street, in the Hamra area.

Isn't she beautiful???

Review: Life As A Leb-Neh Lover

2011-05-11T09:17:00.000+03:00

If you missed my review on The CubeLB, here is your chance to catch up.

Kathy Shalhoub during her book launch last month at Librairie Antoine in ABC Achrafieh.

Around The city: Beirut's Street Art #3

2011-05-10T18:56:00.001+03:00

Three scoops please

Taken last night in Gemmayzeh, Gouraud Street.

Around The city: Beirut #6

2011-05-02T19:39:00.003+03:00

Around The city: Beirut #5

2011-05-02T15:09:00.000+03:00

Around The city: Beirut #4

2011-04-30T12:37:00.000+03:00

A jewel

2011-04-27T15:53:00.001+03:00

Isn't she a beauty?

This car has been parked off Hamra street. It is on sale if anyone is interested

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Around The city: Beirut #3

2011-04-21T02:45:00.000+03:00

Taken at Dany's

I am so loving the alien sneaking into the pic

2011-04-18T19:08:00.000+03:00

A tweep hub

A tiny enclave proves greatness

Once again, I forgot to press on publish, the draft was patiently waiting to be posted. Sorry!!!

I came across some picture of some mouthwatering macaron while miserably counting the ticks of the minutes displayed on my computer screen. A few days late, I notice another picture posted by another tweep. A few more tweets, clicks and follows... I got bitten.

Curious and on a mission, I dragged a friend one Sunday afternoon on a macaron hunt all over Hamra.

Following a crisscross from DePrague to the crown plaza hotel to cafe Younes, we locate Le Gustav.

To my disappointment, the place was closed. They used to close on Sunday's at 5:00pm.

Noor

A week or so, following some serious encouragement on twitter. I drop by once again. I had just finished work, sigh! I drove back home to Hamra. To my relief, Le Gustav was open.

The Goodies

So obviously the addiction started right there. On one side, I became addicted to their creations, or as I like to call the miam miam- I want to stuff my face with your macarons.
The other side of my addiction, are the lovely owners. It is where I met the godfather of tweeps @arabear and his partner @chefnoor. Noor, a chef Patissier, has mastered the art in France, working along the famed "Pierre Hermé”.

Thanks to them, I got to meet many many tweeps. Shout out to my first and one of my fav tweep @yasminehajjar

I won't rave about their sweets, all I have to say is that you're missing if you haven't been to Le Gustav. Run fast, see for yourself. One bite will make all your worries go away.

Tartelette aux fraises

Thanks guys for adopting me as part of the furniture

The Macaron Aficionado

Around The city: Beirut #2

2011-04-16T17:04:00.001+03:00

I took this pic at Oscar Wilde in Hamra last night, mmm... early this morning

Around The city: Beirut's Street Art#2

2011-04-15T16:35:00.000+03:00

Around The city: Beirut's Street Art

2011-04-15T00:34:00.000+03:00

Around the city: Beirut

2011-04-14T10:38:00.001+03:00

No Comment

The Funny thing is that the guy didn't leave a phone number, he just assumed that everybody is familiar with Salon Elie

The Rain Series

2011-04-06T09:57:00.003+03:00

One drop falling... One click... A vision... A scene momentarily captured for all eternity....

The passion Karen Kalou expresses though her rain series embarks you on a fascinating visual voyage. The young photographer destined to become one since her young age launched her first solo exhibition at The Running Horse.

Along the jersey coast, just outside NYC, in a car ride with a dear friend, one snap was the defining moment that led her into the creation of this visual landscape. As she was about to turn the page on her life to North America, she unknowingly opened a new one. Her interest in creating the rain series was triggered that by that first shot. That split of a second that she captured with her lens set a standard to every shot that followed. That sensation she got at that moment made its way into every picture she took in this series.

From a young age, she was fascinated by the power of pictures. The story behind each photograph she found, whether it was in a magazine, always mesmerized her. She looked into what was hidden behind.

Her passion for landscape reflects into her work as a portraitist. The softer light she captured in the scenery she seeks is the similar to the one she finds in her portraits. “The moment between two moments,” as she likes to define it. The instant when her subject let his guard down, that split of a second when his vulnerability is at its most, is the moment she strives to catch.

In 2010, Karen Kalou teamed up with Josette Youssef to start their own creative photography company Karen and Josette. In 2011, Karen and Josette won the Deutsce Bank Creative Award 2010.

2011-03-31T17:44:00.000+03:00

Hello spring
A lovely saturday in Tyre

Note: I wrote this post few weeks ago, as it seemed that I won't add to it nor read it, I decided it to publish it before it rots with other unpublished posts. Apologies for grammar, punctuation, all kinds of mistakes. I hope you will enjoy the spirit... Enough bla bla...

We planned to spend Saturday deep south, in Tyre. Tyre is refereed to nowadays as Sour.
A dear friend has a family house there, she invited my friend Nathalie to bring along some friends. So I went along.
I met Ufo, our host, two years ago through a visiting friend. I was glad to surprise her.

We arrived a bit late. We hesitated at first to go. We woke up to some rain and Beirut skies were quite gloomy. I am glad we ended up going.

The drive was invigorating it felt so good to breath some clean fresh air.
I was so happy to treat my inflammation with the best medicine out there, pollution-free respiration. Beirut has declined over the last few years into a concrete jungle. Trees and clean have become a thing of the past.

No road trip worthy of mention goes on unhindered. The obvious happened, we got lost!!!!
We almost ended up in Naqoura.
It was suggested we take up the goodies bought in Beirut to the UNIFIL camp we reached. We would have dined with some hot robust Italians in a suit. Shout out to Danielle who wrote a blog post on the subject.

We finally managed to find the place. In our defense, the portal had no indication sign. We were searching for a gas station on the left, or was it right? The gas station we were looking for was sold god-knows-when... Basically we passed by it several times but we could't recognize it as the sign wasn't changed. They kept the old owner's name. We had to guess... Next time I will consult an oracle.
The fattoush
Once we were done playing hide and seek, we drove into an alley of citrus trees. It was promising.
Once the greeting was done, the hummous, the fattoush (a Lebanese salad, the competitor to Tabouleh) were prepared. The grilling of meat, chicken and fish was done. We ate, finally!!!!
Wild Thyme Salad

I so enjoyed the wild Thyme salad. It was MIAM!!!!! They were picked that same morning. Life was beautiful. I was ALL Smiles.

Belly full, we took a stroll. It was heavenly. We picked up from a tree to taste a mouthwatering orange. I was all giddy. I grew up in a city. The notion of belonging to a village, mountain or anything that had more than a park and stabs of storey floor building was exotic.

Papaya tree
The full trees of bananas, mandarins, oranges, lemons was a timeless sight. I am getting a bit carried.
my new friend
Our hostess has also planted for their personal use a papaya tree, a baby mango tree...

While some drifted back to the house ahead of us to enjoy a game of pingpong, some coffee and fruits, I made the acquaintance of a new friend.

Did someone say coffee?
We followed them shortly... Sipping on my coffee, enjoying the delicious 'real-tasting' fruits I followed, if I need to describe fittingly I would say, I stared blankly with a stupid smile plastered on my face, at the game.
Verveine plant

Our day concluded in watching a spectacular sunset and the viewing of a moon-esque. It was a sight. We witnessed an event that happens once every twenty years.

Before departing back to our daily lives, our lovely hostess equipped us with some newly picked, garden-fresh goodies. Around 7:00 pm, we setoff dragging the car trunk back to Beirut.
Filling the trunk
Shit I forgot to mention the animals... You can see the pictures

Check out Sietske in Beiroet’s picnic of in tyre. To learn how to make some arabic/Lebanese mezzeh, hop to Confetti and get a Taste of Beirut, you won't regret it

2011-03-31T15:58:00.001+03:00

Dear Le Gustav,

Yes, both of you my sugar daddy n sugar bear... CUT Me off.

Under no circumstances am I to be served.

If I come asking, ignore me!

If I come begging, kick me out!!

If I cry, scream, rave, grab me and shove me out of the door!!!!

if I threaten your lives, call the Cops!!!!!

Do not give me my sugar fix....

I need to lose weight. My clothes are tight. My belly is bulging, I know the beer I consume is not helping. Seriously it's for my well being, ok also for health reasons.

PS: starting Monday, ok. I can still be a valued customer until then.

Love,

Total addict

A beer truth

Note to self

2011-03-22T21:36:00.000+02:00

I was thinking while driving this morning about how much I changed in the last few months.
I have been really happy lately. I am not sure if I am Really happy or if I have been convincing myself. In case I have been... Great!
If not... Damn I am doing a great job!!!

My Birthday

2011-03-20T15:28:00.000+02:00

A birthday...

Six hours of drinking...

A bunch of quirky friends

One hell of a wacky friend

...And Me

In Gemmayzeh

What should be preserved

... yet again, another historic edifice is being insensibly shred.

Last november, on a Tuesday night, I turned ... I decided to celebrate in style. The weeks of festivities have mostly been held at Obros in Clemenceau. In 2010, Obros was the chosen venue to witness several celebration. To perpetuate this year tradition, I celebrated my life in Obros, Yet, on the day in question, I re-sorted to my usual spot. Along with some of my friends, passers-by and some fresh blood met at the scene of the action, I celebrated in a laid-back mode, on a nice stool at good ol’ Torino.

Beers were gulped down, shots were downed, drinks were rapidly sipped...

My cheeks bruised by well-wishers kisses...

I decided to call it a night. I think i did. I might have been going to grab some well deserved nourishment. I can’t recall. Well, that was two month ago and the night was quite “arrosée”.

So, my friend and the life of the party decided to get my car from the last-standing parking in Gemmayzeh, to pick up my friend. Somehow, somewhere on the way, I decided to snap some pictures of the latest building getting demolished. One snap, followed by another, a peek inside the entrance, couple of stairs were climbed, we found ourselves on the first floor. In utter darkness and total fascination, two fruitcakes using the flash of the camera as the only mean to direct them got into an artistic frenzy.

In an exploration mode, we wandered through the four remaining stories, or what is left of them. Sacrificing our attires, at least I did. My Dior ballerina and LV bag, my favorite top purchased in NYC were dragged into the mud.

Holding to each other for our lives, dangling through a missing room to get the best take, we reminisced of what once must have been, of past generation and lives uprooted. This once witness to a war, lives, romance, fights and endless stories is being reduced to a pile of rubbles.

Sad, at the same time exhilarated, we were rightfully forced by the friend awaiting us at the pub, to walk out and move away, abandoning this once bustling habitation to its doom.

On that night all that remained, was a last complaint, a pipe wastefully lashing in anger its contents into the darkness..

2011-03-15T18:26:00.003+02:00

Love conquers death in a poem

Hind Shoufani's poems are reminiscent of a lost lover, a lost time...a place, and ultimately the loss of loved one.

She transports one through a journey of tears, laughter, sadness, happiness and mostly a life once conquered, yet remains to be constantly explored.

In her first collection, published in august 2007, "More Light Than Death Could Bear" the poetess recounts her Beirut, past lovers and friendship. The recurring themes are found once again in "Inkstains On The Edge of Light," her second volume released in 2010. Although, she evolves and find her home in a new city, her wandering soul remains packed in a suitcase for a long period, the slight change in her style is subtly noticeable.

Shoufani's one true love is Yasmine. Any one who has experienced love and death can by her profound words express his emotions.

Her attachment to an unknown land she rightfully belongs to can but move the reader to explore the bygone stories and the history of a place throughout his existence known as Palestine.

I am happy to count Hind among the people in my life. She shares her joy, her colourful nature and her perseverance in life with her smile.

"Her love to her lost one transcends death through her sparkling poems," If I can define the turmoil her words put me through while reading both books, I would add.

I am looking forward to her future work whether on screen or in print.

To fill us up she shares her laughter and tears on the home of the Poeticians, a group she had initially founded in Beirut then transported with her to Dubai before releasing it to the sphere on the web.

Hind can also be found on her website www.hindshoufani.com, and finally @hindoisms through her glittery tweets.

2011-03-06T13:27:00.000+02:00

I Ain’t Chilling...

And for a good reason, what was supposed to be nice evening among my partners in crime turned into a fiasco. The tweep mafia has been disgraced.

They don’t know who they messed with... A bunch of bloggers and tweeps gathered for an evening of promised-pizza rendered us into a bunch of helpless hungry party.

The venue we choose to gather and banter was EM Chill in Mar Mikael. The Rock N Roll Pizza party was scheduled to start at 9:00PM. We arrived at 9:30PM. They asked us to return in half an hour. The proceeding event was running late. LBC was filming “Nemr Comedy Show’.

Wholeheartedly, we pit-stopped at Entourage for a quick beer and couple of colorful shots.

Once we finished up our drinks, we ‘strutted’ our flat bellies (flat from hunger) back to EM Chill. We got there, the bouncer or whoever it was, asked us to wait another half an hour, then another 15 minutes. After we waited patiently for over an hour and the half, we decided to ‘snub’ them and grab a hot dog. In my case, it was a Nutella sandwich that I swallowed in two bites...

Hunger...

... Am excused

An apology for wasting our time would have been nice after all this delay. We are not a cattle hoarding your sidewalk. It was all in all unacceptable. The least you can do is to manage better your events.

So, EM minus the chill, you can't expect people to chill on the sidewalk with no consideration!

One Cupcake At A Time

2011-02-17T20:10:00.005+02:00

The cupcake craze has kind of been slow. For a country renowned for growing businesses depending on what is 'In' today. The rise of cupcakes has been at a ratio of one shop per year.

A year ago, "Sugar Daddy" opened. I tried them once but my attention swayed away as soon as I stepped out of the shop with my selection. I found it too sweet. Such a statement coming from me is a big deal. My reputation as a sweet tooth has preceded me. No quantity is enough. Yet, Sugar Daddy was too sweet. I think I should give it a second chance before I deliver my final judgement. They are located in Koreitem, on Takielddine El-Solh street.

End of 2010, "Cupcakery" opened in the Hamra district, on a Jeanne d'Arc street. The shop design is inviting. The inspiring color blue is an invitation to try out their products.

It took me some time to step into their door. The opportunity rose when I was driving to my friend's place. She is a cupcake lover. I choose a sample of four cupcakes: strawberry & cream, Rebel in Red, A Chocolate Affair, and a Lemon cupcake.

Once at her place, the lovely box was placed on the table with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. The first bite was quite satisfying. A bite of this and a bite of that, we sampled the different flavors. Two of the cupcakes I choose had a filling. The chocolate based ones had no filling, only the topping. The moist consistency of the cake coated with a well-dozed creamy glazing rendered our sampling experience enjoyable.

At a cost of $10, my selection of four didn't come cheap.

The Benihana experience: In solidarity with bloggers Rights to Freedom of Expression

2011-02-14T14:55:00.004+02:00

In Support of Mark, check out his blog

A few days back I posted about Benihana opening up at the Avenues and yesterday night I decided to pass by with Nat and try it out. The service wasn’t too bad for a restaurant that’s just been open for a few days and the staff were really friendly. The restaurant itself is made up of islands and bars with a grill in the middle of each one. You sit around the grill and the chef will come to your table and prepare the food right in front of you which makes things entertaining. It’s actually why I prefer sitting at the bar in Japanese restaurants in general, since you can talk to the chef and watch them put your dish together. The problem with my experience last night though was with the food, it was disappointing to say the least.

We ordered beef negimayaki for starters followed by an Orange Blossom maki and a Hibachi Chicken. The negimaki arrived looking good and was probably the best thing we had there even though I prefer Maki’s negimaki which has a richer teriyaki sauce. The Orange Blossom was very ordinary, wouldn’t order it again. Now the Hibachi chicken which is basically grilled chicken, that was the worst. The chicken was very chewy (I could swear it was undercooked if not raw) and tasted terrible. Even after I had the chef add some more teriyaki sauce in hopes of improving the taste it didn’t work. I tried to dip it into the sauces that came with the chicken but it was hard to figure out if they were actually making things worse or not. Nat only ate one piece of chicken and left the rest while I needed my protein since I’m on a strict diet and forced myself to eat my whole plate (I can do that) but the after taste was really bad. Even the rice and the veggies that came with it tasted bad AND were under cooked. Once we left I considered picking up a frozen yogurt from Pinkberry even though I hate frozen yogurts but I just needed something to get rid of the aftertaste. A few moments later we ended up at Chocolate Bar ordering the gooey chocolate cake (bye bye diet).

I shot the two videos above of the chef preparing our meal. Benihana are known for the live shows they perform when preparing your dish so I was expecting to see [This] but ended up with the above . Would I go back to Benihana? No I wouldn’t. Their sashimi and maki’s are pretty cheap (KD1.5 for 5 pieces of Salmon sashimi for example) but there are two other Japanese restaurants at the Avenues, Wasabi and Maki, and I would prefer either one of those to Benihana.

——————————————-

Update: Comments have been closed.

Update2: If you read the comments below you will see that the Benihana GM Mike Servo threatened to sue me. Well, Benihana have actually gone ahead with the lawsuit, I got served my papers and my court date is in March. I have been receiving a lot of support from people via twitter, email and blogs. For now my lawyer has advised me not to discuss the case or talk about Benihana, but as soon as he gives me the go ahead I will be sharing all the details.

Update3: I’ve been given the go ahead by my lawyer to talk about the case, here is the court order and more details regarding the lawsuit [Link]

Update4: The amount of support I have been receiving is phenomenal, here is a link to the full media coverage the subject has received so far [Link]

This post is in solidarity with Mark and Nat, who are being sued by Benihana Kuwait. Needless to say that Benihana world wide has lost a customer in me. I personally was not familiar with Mark Makhoul's blog. Their legal action seemed to attract more attention to a blog, a post that would have gone unnoticed. I am joining in today's action in support of Mark in his predicament by posting a copy of an extract of Mark's Benihana post. Thanks to Le blog de Chanty, Joe's Box and Ritakml.

In hope that none of us will end up being sued...

PS: I was unable to upload the videos, my connection is going at a snail rate.. I will try again later on

2011-02-12T14:32:00.005+02:00

....Life in 2010

-We broke-up with the guy first week of January

-I bought a new Mac. Had it not been for a beer spillage incident by my friend Floupy back in July, I would have kept my previously brand new Mac.

-I got a Blackberry.

In less than one week, I ended up with a huge phone bill.

Lebanese usage of BBM scared the shit out of me. The “Add Me,” phenomena was the one thing I feared to hear. Suddenly,everybody from the taxi driver to the hairdresser to that friend I haven’t seen since KG1 had a Berry. They would ask me to add him/her. Yeah, Hell NO... Being friends on Facebook is more than I can deal with.

The only reason, I got a blackberry was to communicate with

my siblings in the US. SMSssss ain’t cheap in Lebanon.

(I am in my own way a geek)

-Got a new job: Learned that my tolerance is quite high..

-Coped with working under the totalitarian labor system in Lebanon. Ok, joke joke... mmh, let’s face it, partially it’s true.

-Job: By the end of the year, I decided that enough is enough. I didn’t quit yet!!!

-Attended the Laic Parade on April 25th

Life-Altering::

-Overcame my fears of driving in Beirut... Survival tip: Forget everything you learned abroad, Beirut is a jungle.

-Bought my first car. I called her “Bebe” because she is so cute, small yet spacious and so practical. She is absolutely perfect.

-Fell in Love with my car.

-Mastered the art of parking under all circumstances

-Got my first ticket

-Had my first accident ever

-Despite my absolute fear of commitment (I hate to be tied down in any way: car, house, people, things and stuff,) to be fair it is a phobia, I committed to buying a car.

-About Life in Lebanon: Less nagging...

I totally gave up on making sense

Logic is a mythical concept

The negative became comical (viewing daily occurrences)

-Watched Placebo live in concert at the ‘Forum de Beirut’

Placebo at the Forum

-I kicked the ass of my depression... work still in process

-Re-gained the confidence and self-assurance I lost

-Re-discovered myself

-Remembered aspects about my personality and life style long-forgotten

-Faced my worst fear

-Dealt with my grief and mourning. It is a happy-sadness.

-Distanced myself from bad vibes and bad energies

-I read... I am a bookworm...totally addicted

-Joined Nasawiya, a feminist group. I didn’t participate much due to time constraints.

-I wrote (although, I started writing again in 2009) It made me so happy

-I got published

-I wrote for Sawtalniswa

-Participated in a writer’s workshop

Birru

-On the same day, I attended my first Ethiopian New year at T-marbouta in Hamra, I had the pleasure of enjoying the first edition of the “Hamra Street Festival.” A car-free Hamra was a dream.

-I tried a new drink

-I relished in my love for Beer. I did the impossible, I converted some adamants. As long as I am well and drinking, Almaza has nothing to fear.-I tried a new drink

Wata El-Lounge

-New-to-me. I discovered some local bands, Fareeq El Atrash through their self-entitled album

& Wata El Lounge as I caught up with them rocking it in their Pj’s at SpinOut on September 15.

-I bought myself the perfect birthday present. If you know me, you know i am a bagaholic: The large YSL Muse 2

My beloved

Total addiction

-My brother got me an ipad... to satisfy the bookwork, the junkie and the geek in yours humbly.

Love you bro...

On the upside:

-Celebrated my birthday for the first time in a long time...it was quite festive

-Met some amazing people

On the downside:

-Woke up to find a black scorpio/spider the size of a hand palm in my room

-Was annoyed to death by a seemingly harmless stalker

Oh, I forgot the most important. I lost effortlessly most of the 20 kg I gained the last few years. It only took a bit of a free-will and some adjustments. I am loving it!!!

❤ I mostly value and appreciate the people in my life. The time I spend with them is so precious. This goes to some in my family and friends.

“I am grateful to have you all in my life.”❤

-I DECIDED TO TAKE CONTROL OF MY LIFE AND BE HAPPY

The best part of 2010 is that I meet some TWEEPS online & offline

I have a great feeling about 2011, can’t wait

I see grease

2011-01-27T17:59:00.028+02:00

I just had lunch. As I am writing this, my body is in fully digestion mode. I should at least be happy to have had a copious meal. Yeah, not so!!!!

My body is complaining through pains and grunts.

Basking in oil

The cause to my suffering is the greasy meal I just had at Couqley.

The best part

I ordered the grilled salmon laid on a bed of spinach and stirred vegetable. I also asked for a side of fries.

Let me tell you, the fries were the lightest nutriments on my plate. I feel as I am typing these words the greasy oil slipping through my lips.

I assure you the grilling of the fish is more likely to be the frying of it. Golden rule: never ever fry a salmon with oil nor butter. It's own oil perfects it's tenderness. But who am I to advise a French chef that served the best in a French palace?

Let the worst be said at last. The subtleness of the vegetable stir was nowhere to be found on my plate. Rather than the lightly crispiness, I had some mushy vegetable basking in a sea of oil.

I was quite disappointed to be served a poorly prepared dish I could have made myself at home. The butter-lemon sauce improved it enough to make it edible.

Facing me, my friend was savoring his 'Foie Gras' entrée followed by a 'Confit de Canard'. One more than his companion, reveled in his feisty luncheon.

My poor scoop

The Blueberry pie

I will go to church tonight and light a candle to the angel who had the mission of guarding me today. The dessert made up for the mess I forcefully injected my body with.

The berry tart accompanied by the vanilla ice-cream I ordered, was mouth-pleasing. I wish my piece of pie was not placed on the bar waiting to be served, while my melting ice-cream was withering away. Had I not attracted the attention of one of the waiters to my lonesome pie, my scoop would not have survived.

My friend's crème brûlée

Update: It seems that the Chef was not at Couqley on that specific day.

They are greater in their own sense

2010-12-10T06:44:00.000+02:00

I was looking forward to this December. I wanted to celebrate. I wanted this one December to be different. I really believed it would be. I am still hoping the wheel will shift though I don’t believe it would.

This was the first year, no one died. So, I thought.

No loved one has passed away... No funeral...

These deaths came in different forms. I didn’t grasp these events as such until today.

Three blows... Three souls...

Each was different yet somehow they are connected.

The timeline these events occurred is baffling.

June.... December...

One has been going on all year long.

Had life been a human being, I would brand her a hypocrite.

Taunting me with what was once bestowed on me.

It has been nothing short of ironic.

I was finally ready to embrace what had been dangling under my nose had I not being to blind to see it. I failed to cherish and nurture this precious gift I was given.

All life left me was the realization of what could have been.

Life had given me a taste of a reflection, a dream, I never dared to hope for.

Life sneakingly snatched what I so yearned for.

Nothing remains but a faint hope...

Utterly

2010-11-15T17:16:00.002+02:00

It feels good to be Happy.

I am happy for many reasons.

I am happy mostly because I decided to be happy.

I am happy because being positive attracts good vibes.

Yet, it's a scary feeling.

Is "to be too happy" a bad thing?

I really want to believe no.

I just don't want this feeling to go away.

Defying Tyranny

2010-11-02T14:16:00.003+02:00

The force and courage a woman finds to escape her torturers is impressive. This exploit done by a child bride is nothing but short of a miracle. I bow to Nojoud Ali, who despite her age, displayed a force of nature most adults lack. Braving strangers in a country women are deemed less than second hand citizens. Nojoud displayed a bold heroism. I recommend you to read her recitation of her ordeal as a bride child. She is a force to reckon with. Let her audacity be a lesson to us all. Her story is an example we as human should be inspired from.

I highly recommend this book. If for no other reason than the narration of her bravery. Profits from the book will fund two girls school fees and mold two lives.

Moi Nojoud on Amazon

2010-11-02T07:46:00.001+02:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

I don’t have a choice

2010-10-28T16:32:00.000+03:00

The parking issue has been a recurring topic among bloggers, tweeps, and regular folks.I thought I will add my spice to the subject. I prefer to refer to it as a plight.

Most Lebanese don’t enjoy the comfort of having a parking spot in their building or at the workspace. Renting in the local parking on monthly basis a spot in one location or the other, could be both, is not within the luxuries one can afford to add to their countless monthly expenses. That is if one had a choice.

The only other option available to most is to park their cars in their apartment. Regrettably, the impossibility of this choice forces them to stretch their buck and pay a hefty fee.

Prices can vary from a $100 to $200 in some areas, depending on the availability and demand.

I find myself facing this predicament at work mostly. I am one who won’t leave the keys to her car. Forget about valet parkings, it’s not even an option. I’d rather go home than do one or the other.

You would know that there is a BUT somewhere.

The But is that I have no choice. I work in Achrafieh. If you happen to work in this busy area or a similar sector, you would know that parking spots are a gold mine. Once you find one, you never want to let go of it.

Sadly, you have more chances of winning the lottery than on coming by this kind of luck.

So,

My only option is to leave my keys with the parking guy.

Let me tell you about those guys.

They are two.

They are charming!!!

They are a Mafia who hunts every spot on the curb.

They are bloody hounds.

Seriously, how can they predict which car is gonna move and vacate a space? I am also curious to figure out how they manage to get a car out of the lot in the blink of an eye.

How do they do it?

They manage to untangle a car from within the web, get it out of the parking, and conveniently right in position, next to the be-vacated spot.

They manage within seconds to be there with a car waiting patiently for the driver to steer out of the slot.

I believe they are an elite species.

I work on a one way busy street filled with valets parking. I have witnessed the occasional dispute. Yet, those guys are always one step ahead of everybody else. They have conquered the street and the nearby streets. They are unrivaled.

So, back to me...

Those charming devils refuse to grant us the privilege of paying them a monthly fee. They prefer to charge us a daily fee. The stacks are high, at noon, they are full.

...And I submit helplessly with a smile plastered on my face to their laws like everybody else. I don’t want to anger them and find myself banished.

Their tyranny extend to moving my car once or several times a day.

Every day I pray and try to find an empty spot. Most of the times, it is wishful thinking. At a point, I give up and end up doing what I do every morning. I drop my car. I pay them. Two-seconds later, by miracle, a space clears up. I barely turn to find my beloved ride parked on the sidewalk.

The afternoons are quite something. I am constantly wondering where I will find my poor car. It’s a daily guess. At times, I find it parked here and there. At other times, it is parked in an unconventional way or position. It can be half parked.

Let’s not neglect, a scratch here and there. These occasional recurrences are becoming frequent.

What Me can do is close to nothing.

I complain from time to time to no avail. Risk no risk, they are unaffected.

The best I can expect is:

“It’s ok, you are leaving in a while.”
“Nothing will happen”
“Don’t be scared”
“Don’t worry”

These comfort words are followed by the occasional “Walaw” or “Bassita.”

Hopeless and helpless, I wonder if my beloved car will make it for the next four years or if I will end up paying for a car-less loan to my bank.

I abide with a smile to an unknown fate!

Ex and The City: Unchartered Territory

2010-10-20T02:29:00.001+03:00

Sharing a city with an ex is a first for me

Sharing a city with an ex you want to avoid, is a headache

Sharing a city with an ex and when this city is Beirut is utter pain

Sharing a city with an ex you want to avoid and when this city is Beirut, it gets complicated.

Exes were always far away...an airport, a plane kind of far away.

Exes were not something I had to deal with on a daily bases.

Confrontation was not an issue.

The distance was a blessing.

All that has changed. I find myself facing for the first time in my adult life an unknown situation.

The vicinity is claustrophobic. At moment, it feels like walking in a minefield.

You stand still in the middle of the field, all alone, just to avoid tripping up.

Water No Water

2010-10-15T14:34:00.000+03:00

I had to go by for days without using the bathroom at work. It took a toll on my body and nerves. Imagine spending eight hours without peeing. Funny, despite all the luxury we have, it comes down to our basic need. Everything else becomes obsolete. The need we have for our resources is greater than one can imagine. Water is life. Without it, any form of life will get extinct.
It's time to act. This is our chance.
Maybe our last chance.

No, not that Obros!

2010-10-04T14:57:00.001+03:00

Do you know this place?

No.

Then don’t: I would like to keep it off the radar and enjoy it.

But you should, because it is simply awesome.

This one of a kind venue holds a treasure of vintage furniture and obsolete technology dating back from the 60’s and 70’s.

An avid collector, Joulan El-Ashkar decided to make use of his assortment. So, by giving these items a second life, he brought us a well hidden, off the map, Obros. A week or so, during a discussion I had fell under the false impression that a couple of friends travelled to Obros, Cyprus in Arabic.

“When did they go to Obros?”

I barely uttered the question that i realized we were talking about Obros, the pub and the specific outing in question. The name is quite misleading.

Let me specify that you do not need to bring out your passport nor apply for a visa. The joke has long lost its luster. Be creative or Get over it.

On my first visit, last march, I was fascinated by absolutely everything. My eyes couldn’t keep up with my surrounding. I was all over the place. I had enjoyed then my one visit but that was it.

My second time was two months ago. Few visits down the road, the Obros grew on me and my once in a while stop-by became a favorite spot. The place sustained its magic. I am bewildered by the lights, seatings, table and every knickknacks surrounding me.

Let me not forget the pivotal point, the popcorn machine lures me back over and over again. The crunchy popcorn from my childhood is made on the spot. The pleasure of listening to the popping pricks the ears. It can but be increased by the smell filtering into my nostrils. As you can imagine, the poor waiter waltzed all night back and forth filling our plastic bowls.

Nevertheless, the popcorn are not the only mouthwatering treats to indulge in. The addictive garlic and cheese pizza is a favorite of mine. I would also recommend the delicious cheese and potato pot sparkled with a dust of cinnamon. It is becoming harder and harder whether I am hungry or not, not to order one or the other and to restrain myself

I am not a fan of arabic nor oriental music. Although, I lived the 80’s in Lebanon, it appears I lived in a parallel Beirut than the rest of my friends. I do not recognize the songs, the cartoons, the series. I know but a few. So every time, we end up at Obros, they get into beirut 80’s culture. I could say that ordinarily i would feel out of place or left out but then I am sipping my beer at Obros, where it is impossible not to assimilate this mesh and connect. You would even find me dancing, jumping on sounds I would have found lame and boring elsewhere.

I am happy to travel through time to experience what I failed to catch on during my childhood growing up in war-torn-beirut. So in a blend of 2010 and late 20th century, Obros is definitely one of my top Beiruti hangouts.

Cinderella

Superman

The Sink

Obros is located in Cleamenceau, Tajer Bldg

Bathroom Aggression

2010-09-10T13:19:00.000+03:00

The Ethiopian girl who works at BO18 was aggressed by a girl (crazy bitch) last night. Despite the fact that a bouncer was checking on her every once in a while. X was able to punch the poor girl a couple of times in the face. Luckily she was found and thrown out by a bouncer. Sadly, her act was left unpunished and she was able to walk freely.

This random act of violence was uncalled for.

I will re-edit this post later on.

Live ByDany's

2010-09-08T14:51:00.001+03:00

The board

These are some picture from last friday's concert at Dany's in Hamra. The performance was by Basel Rajoub (Saxophone, Trumpet) featuring Fouad Afra (Drums), Jean Madani (Base) and Tarek Yamani (Keyboard)

The Original compositions combines oriental and world music.

Dany’s is located on street 78 in Hamra. The ground floor is a cafe-bar. The live acts are performed in an intimate surrounding in the basement. These events are brought by Live ByDany’s.

*Sorry for the quality of the picture, I was standing on the stairs.

Numbers

2010-09-08T10:34:00.001+03:00

I am really intrigued by the fascination of Lebanese with Numbers. I am not sure if this trend is throughout the middle east. I can assume it is.

And no, I am not talking about number in a mathematical way....

Being the lucky owner of a number that rimes or follows a certain pattern that others can remember, is a national sport.

The craziest part is that people are willing to pay a couple of hundred, some will even pay a couple of thousands.

To this date, I know of two trends. It is quite important to acquire the coolest cell phone number and license plate. Some even take it to another level. I have met two individuals that matched the two.

I have even met a person or two that were willing to spend a whole month salary just to get a ‘nice’ number. Did you think that was extreme, think again! The craziest of all were the ones who borrow to acquire the Golden and Platinum numbers.

My question is, am I willing to spend hundred or thousand when I can buy a line for 10-20 bucks. This amount varies. It depend on the season or the mood of the salesperson in the shop, the two providers and God knows what. It is simple, there is no logical explanation to the pricing of the line. Don’t bother to understand!

To all those smart people, I say: “Get A Life!”

It is unacceptable to spend sums on a number that very few people will memorize it. Cell phone have an address book that you can back on your PC, on your gmail, etc.

What about car plates?

I don’t see the utility of those either. I think almost nobody is gonna memorize nor care to memorize car plates.

The only two explanation that someone in fact will, are:

Your spouse (boyfriend or girlfriend or life companion) suspect that you are cheating. It can go the other way too. He might be driving your car or a car you bought and in case he/she might be cheating on you, it can be quite convenient to own a distinctive number.
The other scenario I came up with is as it follows. A loved-one or yourself might have a gambling problem or suffer from an addiction. Whether it is alcohol, drugs, etc. It doesn’t matter. Any form of addiction will do. Here again, this particular asset could come in handy.

That being so, these people will be happy to be able to locate one another. These are the only two rational explanations I came up with. But then, I presume in both cases the other don’t want to be found.

That is

Unless you are a stalker!!!

That being said, this self-gratification one looks for in this form speak tons about the society we live in. Whether it is a distinctive number, the need to own and acquire the latest mobile phone or car, the obsession with showing one’s value through insignificant means, highlights the necessity of chasing this ideal lifestyle. This trait in our culture best describe the malaise we live in.

Lebanon news - NOW Lebanon -Official car registration department left powerless

2010-08-18T11:35:00.000+03:00

This morning while browsing through blogs, facebook, medias, etc, I came across this article by Now Lebanon. It is in the same line as my previous post Flipping Lebanese style.

Lebanon news - NOW Lebanon -Official car registration department left powerless

Flipping Lebanese style

2010-08-17T15:48:00.002+03:00

It’s bad enough that I have to work during August while 99% of my friends are enjoying their holiday. It is bad enough that I am losing my marbles due to boredom. It is bad enough that I won’t be able to spend enough time nor enjoy the company of friends I haven’t seen in years. I thought that will make coming to work intolerable.

Wrong!

I was totally off the hook!!!!

Guess what?

The reasons mentioned above were the least of my worries as it turned out.

The one thing simple commodity the rest of the world enjoy is becoming quite a luxury.

Did you figure it out yet?

Yup yup yup, it’s good old electricity. As one of the hottest spot on the planet, electricity is fast becoming scarce.

One minute it is on, the next it is off. It plays tricks on us.

It is quite a suspense, I can compare it to a kick-ass mystery novel or film, it keeps us on our toes.

Did you think it can’t be any worse?

Guess again!!!

The natural behavior in a country with such privileges is to buy from the local crook in your area generator powered electricity. If you are fortunate enough to afford the cost of the installation (meaning = extend a cable all over the street from his generator to your lucky abodes) and the monthly subscription. Prices start at $15 for five ampere in Beirut.

If you consider the lucky few who can afford to pay this amount, which will light a couple of bulbs. The unlucky ones cut on their other expenses, such as food, medications, etc.,for this privilege.

So, if you are one of those lucky or unlucky ones who pays, don’t think your troubles are over. What awaits you is running around, because the generator is overloaded and it shuts down every 15 minutes. As a result, you will either have to wait for five to ten minutes, for the guy to realize and to turn it on again. You might give up and call the guy. The best way is to hope that a hopeless neighbor will call before you, which will save you a dollar or two on your next humongous bill.

Another reason, is that the meter he installed is either deficient or won’t manage the amount of amperes you are paying for. Either way, one has to run up, down the stairs the street, depending on where he installed the bloody device to switch it back on.

The third cause of distress is the untimely cuts EDL inflicts on us. The ratio is of three hours per day in Beirut. The extra cuts they bestow on us can vary from a few minutes to a couple of hours. No one is out of reach. Any area at any time can experience these additional portion of electricity free bliss. To go back to the ones with a generator provision, these occurrences are a simple reminder of their misfortune. Paying for this extra service does not guarantee it painlessly. The same torturous conditions are to be applied (Refer to the paragraph above.) Such as, phone calls, running up and down and switching timers are all part of the challenge.

That is!!!!

That is, if the guy didn’t take off. He might have been under the false impression that his work was done and he can go on with his life. Wrong mister!!! In that case, one has to wait for the guy to make it back to his beloved generator. Meanwhile, one only has to be patient and try to preserve what remains of his sanity. The challenge is to be able to do all this under the blazing heat of summer 2010.

Some of the other challenges one might face are:

figuring out if which one is on, the electricity or the generator (which requires a system of networking with your neighbors)
crossing the street: making it without getting hit by a car, bicycle, scooter, bike, truck and an eighteen wheeler.
Getting electrocuted
Missing a step, while running up and down the stairs. which can result from the simple leg fracture to the neck or back fracture.
Losing your breath... at best, you will suffer an asthma attack. At worst, it can result in suffering a heart attack!!!

Don’t take what you have for granted

Glitters & blue

2010-08-16T15:42:00.001+03:00

While walking in dowtown beirut Saturday late afternoon, in the blazing heat, I passed by the Adidas Blue store. The window display was eye-grabbing.

Vespa Adidas Blue style

My sin at Classic Burger

2010-08-16T13:19:00.005+03:00

On Saturday, after deciding on around five restaurants, my friend and moi finally gave Classic Burger a shot.

It was totally worth it.

We were quite lucky. We got there at 1:30PM. So, we had our pick. We opted for the stools on the window. It was this or sitting on a table for two in the middle. We could have moved after placing our orders. One of the side tables cleared out but we decided to stay put. Other customers were not so lucky. The place filled up real quickly. Some even had to wait on the curb.

For once, I didn't throw up my meal.

I am a semi-vegetarian, a former lacto-vegetarian, who had the Mozzarella Chicken Burger. I wouldn't venture near the meat stuff. I tried eating chicken a few time but I always ended up... getting rid of them.

So for once, it was nice to enjoy a meal and not feel appalled by the taste of flesh.

The meal was served with fries and coleslaw.

Some people might consider the serving of the fries poor. (If you are used to Lebanese plates, digging for for your meal is natural activity.) I did not. It was perfect. No need to stuff yourself with greasy foods.

I also got to enjoy my burger much more without having the taste of the fries take control over my palate.

The fries were ok. I am an aficionado of french fries. I am one of those who can overdose on fries.

The coleslaw was ok, too much mayo though! Definitely needs improvement!

The chicken was grilled, the mozzarella was quite tasty, not one of the rubbery things they stick on food.

I like the fact that they grill their burger rather than frying them. I added grilled onions, miam miam...

My friend selected the cheese burger, he followed my example and added a topping of grilled onions. He really LIKED it.

My friend Almaza quenched my thirst. It was so cool!!! We wanted to try some new local brand called L (I think so). Alas, it was not cool enough to be served and good ol'Almaza won the battle.

The whole experience was quite nice. The meal was light and at the same time consistent.

The service was good.

The meal with a generous tip was a round 30USD. It is not the cheapest burger one can find in the city. Yet, a good price for the quality of the ingredients served.

From A to Z, we stayed for 45 minutes. We didn't rush. We took our time to savor our burger.

The valet parking were not annoying. I was rather surprised by their good manner. Although, I parked my car. They were nice enough to inform me of their services without imposing.

Would I go back?

I am not sure if I will go back just because it goes against my principal. I would definitely suggest a vegetarian option (please no mozzarella patty, there are far better veggie burgers out there) for the animal lovers among us accompanying their carnivorous friends.

To the One true soul

2010-08-12T16:25:00.000+03:00

To my mom who passed away two years ago, on the first of Ramadan, I would like to tell her how blessed I was to have such a loving and caring mother. She was unique and my one true friend.

2010-08-12T14:33:00.002+03:00

Created by Oatmeal

You may not agree with me...

2010-08-11T17:19:00.002+03:00

You may not agree with me...

Happy Ramadan to all!!!

This year, thanks to my work, My fasting consist of the following steps:
- Using the WC facilities (I can't lock the door, both doors, the WC and where I work)
- No Electricity
- No AC

It may not be the traditional way but this is my contribution.
I am honest, true. I never abondaned anyone. I never stole, Rarely lied. I try to help out as much as I can.
I try not to hurt loved ones. I respect all human being and believe in treating them equally.
I don't sleep till 7:00PM and claim that I fasted the day then only to stuff myself till dawn.

So whether one agree with my way or not is debatable.

I agree!!!

Beirut - My Night With A Prostitute From Marseille

2010-08-11T17:04:00.002+03:00

One of my all time favourite... anything by Beirut is a favourite.
Song their ablum: "March Of The Zapotec / Holland" (2009)
Beirut the band

girl quits job on dry erase board exposes farmville boss called her hopa theCHIVE

2010-08-11T12:00:00.000+03:00

I stumbled on this article on twitter. It made my day. Maybe it would be an inspiration source.

girl quits job on dry erase board exposes farmville boss called her hopa theCHIVE

Encore une fois

2010-08-10T15:23:00.137+03:00

This article was published on August 9, 2010 but for unknown reasons, it sort of disappeared.

The day is closing on August 8, 2010

I dined Chez Sami once again. On Sunday, after an afternoon at the beach, having diner in the area was the logical choice. If for nothing else, to avoid sunday's rush, tipped the balance. We considered several places. Chez Sami seemed to cater the wishes of the three of us. Also, I am a sucker for their food.

The outdoor area
As always, I forgot any logic and started ordering food like a convict on death row ordering his last meal. This time, I avoided any restraining from the maitre d' as there was no crabe and the cigale de mer (the bastard) had zero appeal to my palate.

The soothing waves

This visit, we opted for the outdoor patio. It was a first for me. Although, I have been a customer for the past twenty years. I've known the first place located few minutes away. The experience of indulging myself with this succulent food and the joy of sitting a foot away from the sea was breathtaking.

Our dining experience was perfect. The fans were quite sufficient to instill a cooling breeze despite the high temperature.

The evening went very smoothly as a whole. It was perfect on all levels. Their food is to-die-for.

Water at my feet

I am sorry I didn't take any pictures of the meal but I was too busy enjoying the mouthwatering fish, hummus, potatoes...

Maybe next, I will be able to control myself for a few seconds to snap some shots.

The coastline

Just a small fact about August 2010

2010-08-09T17:41:00.000+03:00

This August has 5 Sundays, 5 Mondays, 5 Tuesdays, all in one month. It happens once in 823 years.

Have you ever noticed?

2010-08-09T17:36:00.000+03:00

The culprit

Have you ever noticed this lamp? I haven't. I've been going to Torino for years, yet after all this time I was surprised to discover this one item that have dully escaped my radar for so long.

The object in question

KriKita, the cousin of kri-kri

Here are some photos from my Saturday bash at Torino, my second home, the office.

My good friend Almaza

Reasons to quit my job:

2010-08-03T15:06:00.004+03:00

Just thinking of all the reasons BELOW
my imaginary friends gave up on me and left fleeing this heat
My other imaginary friends got so bored and found someone else with a bit of action at the workplace
if by mistake I choke on anything, no one will notice, i will suffocate and die
I can end up losing my marbles thus on a shooting spree before turning the gun on myself
I can end up living with bats.
I am at risk of having the eyesight of a 90 year old at best. I might end up completely blind at worst
Other humans may seem like aliens.
Everything and everyone i look at have auras.
I see multiples...
As it is the remaining of my brain cells are scattered all over the place. I might reach a point I won’t be able to gather them. A shovel won’t do the trick
My brain cells are dying at an incredible rate.
I can end up crying my heart out for hours while sitting on the floor at the workplace. OH, i’ve already done that... several times.
Being oblivious that these people have no interest in what i am saying...They are actually trying to get away from me.
Chatting my brain out to people I just met two seconds ago on the street...
Turning into a weirder weirdo than i already am.
I can end up fat. A consequence of filling my time and amusing myself with food.
My only friend can end up being the cockroach living on the premises. I forgot that Y might have killed him on his visit weeks ago.
I can end up fat. A consequence of filling my time and amusing myself with food.
I might forget what a conversation is with someone under 50.
I might lose my social skills. Already there
nagging can become a lifestyle. I kicked this one out (Ok partially kicked)

Bloc Party - Flux

2010-08-03T11:32:00.003+03:00

Song of the Day

Just a meal

2010-06-17T15:11:00.001+03:00

So the other day, my friend called. We decide to go to the beach. It should have been my first time this season. The fact that I didn't buy a bathing suit yet was just a minor detail. I wasn't even sure to fit in my old ones. I had gained almost 20 kgs then I lost 10. Nowadays, my wardrobe is kind of limited, I fit in five items only. My clothes are either too small or... I got rid of the rest. It's not like I went on a shopping spree while bingeing. Actually, I went on a bingeing spree.

The fact is I wasn't ready to hit the beach, at least not yet but it was just a minor detail in my grand plan.

The truth be-told, I was so relieved when my friend called back to tell me he was not feeling well. I suggested a lunch in the mountains. So after an hour of texting back and forth, we decided to eat fish. I was so excited.

Ok I had fish the day before at Burj Al-Hamam but I can never say no to fish.

In due time, I picked him up. After a stop at a Mc Donald, I needed to pee, we switched seats and he drove till Jounieh. Initially we were going to have lunch chez Louis in Tabarja. On the way, we changed our minds and decided to eat Chez Sami. There was no hesitation about the Chez, only about which Chez.

So we get to Chez Sami. Upon entering, our eyes detect the fish fridge, naturally we head straight towards it. Did I mention that our stomaches took over our brain?

So,

We order we order we order

The maitre d' suggests that this might be enough.

Happily we let go of the fridge and we settle down at a table with a view. The waiter comes to pick our order. We ask for some mezze, just to name a few, batata harra (spicy fries) and Fattouch. Their fattouch is to die for.

so this was a Fattouch for two

In no time, I was full but that didn't stop me. I kept munching. I wondered how I was gonna be able to devour the sea food and the fish. Unwillingly, we decided to restraint ourselves and wait for the second part, the sea food. A bite from here, a bite from there, finally the long awaited platter arrives.

With effort and pulling, I finish my first crab. It was heavenly! Next, I attack something called "Karakand" or "Cigale de mer". It was tasteless. The poor bastard is probably a cross-breed between a lobster and a crab. They dubbed it the local lobster. Some fishermen do. The poor creature didn't inherit any of its progenitors' good genes. Once I was finished with IT. I look at my remaining crab. My friend was already done with his.

So I look, I grab and the rest is history. No really, it was in my belly; actually my stomach. My belly was so full, rations were piling upwards. I managed to absorb it until the last tiny remaining little piece. The reasons behind stuffing myself were simple. One, it was too good to go to waste. Two, I was gonna pay either way.

To nobody's surprise, the waiter shows up with the third part of the meal, the remaining half a kilo of

fish. Did I mention that the fish were fried? Yes, they were. My friend managed to eat six of the monsters. I had reached my limit. I surpassed myself. The last crab was a similar experience to climbing Le Mont Blanc.

Full and barely able to walk, I head to the ladies room to wash the stench. We ate with our hands. Minus one layer of skin, I return to our table and take my seat. My friend take a look at me and feels inspired. He recalls a similar outing. His victim was one of his friends. The poor girl was left traumatized. He dragged her around in a skimpy outfit from a dinner joint to Leon to Bruxelles to etc.

Just hearing the story made my stomach lurch. I will spare you the gory details. All I can say is that I headed as fast as my body would allow it to the ladies room. No incidents were reported on the way.

A good five or ten minutes later, I lost track of time, I make my way back to our table feeling quite lighter. I order a well-deserved cup of coffee.

I feel ashamed to relate the rest of the story.

To conclude the story, et’s say that some fruits, debs and tahineh, etc. showed up magically on the table. They did, we didn’t ordered them. Ok, we knew they were coming. And let’s say, resisting those delicacies was not optional.

With nothing left to do or eat, we paid for our abundant meal and vacated the premises.