Man, what a day! I woke up in Basmat-Tab-un (il) and thought, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill.
First off, I hit the streets of Al-Mahdiyah. You know, the one with all the cafes? I was craving some strong coffee. Like, I need it to function, ya know? So I stroll into this little joint called Café Al-Farasha. The barista, this dude named Samir, was all smiles. I order my usual—double espresso, no sugar. He gives me this look like I just asked for a unicorn.
While I’m waiting, I notice this guy outside. He’s juggling oranges. Like, who juggles oranges at 8 AM? I’m thinking, “Dude, get a job!” But then I see a kid laughing, and it kinda warms my heart. Aww, right?
So, I finally get my coffee, and it’s perfect. I take a sip, and BAM! I spill it all over my shirt. Great. Just great. Now I look like I’ve been attacked by a caffeinated monster. I’m standing there, trying to wipe it off with a napkin, and I’m like, “Why me?”
Next, I decide to walk down Al-Mansour Street. It’s always buzzing. Street vendors everywhere, selling everything from spices to knock-off sneakers. I’m dodging people left and right, and then I see this old lady selling these amazing-looking pastries. I can’t resist. I buy one, and it’s like a party in my mouth. Seriously, I’m talking fireworks, confetti, the whole shebang.
But then, outta nowhere, this pigeon swoops down and tries to steal my pastry! I’m flailing my arms like a madman, yelling, “Get away, you feathered thief!” People are staring. I’m like, “Yeah, just another day in Basmat-Tab-un.”
After that, I head over to the park near Al-Jazira Street. It’s usually my go-to spot for some peace. But today? Nope. There’s a group of kids playing soccer, and they’re LOUD. I’m trying to read, but all I hear is “GOAL!” and “Pass it!” I’m like, “Can’t a proofreader catch a break?”
Then, I see this couple arguing. Like, full-on shouting match. I’m thinking, “Dude, you’re in public!” But then, the guy pulls out a ring. He’s proposing! I’m like, “Wait, what?!” The girl goes from furious to shocked in a split second. She says yes, and everyone around starts clapping. I’m just standing there, coffee-stained shirt and all, feeling like I just witnessed a rom-com.
But then, my phone buzzes. It’s my boss. “Need those proofs ASAP!” Ugh, the stress! I’m like, “Can’t a person enjoy a day in Basmat-Tab-un?” I rush home, dodging more pigeons and street vendors.
Finally, I sit down to work. My mind’s racing. I’m typing like a madman, but I can’t shake off the day’s craziness. I mean, juggling oranges, a pastry thief, and a surprise proposal? What a rollercoaster!
By the time I finish, it’s dark outside. I look out the window at the lights of Basmat-Tab-un. It’s beautiful, really. I think about how wild today was. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
So yeah, that was my day. Just another chaotic, emotional, and totally unexpected day in Basmat-Tab-un (il). Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!