Birthday in Morocco

I celebrated my 21st birthday in Morocco this past week.

To be honest, I wasn't oober excited. If I could pick to be anywhere, with anyone, it'd be with my friends and family from back home (any home, really). I would have loved to spend the day with Lucas and enjoying time with loved ones.

But clearly, I was an ocean away and five time zones apart. Not quite an easy feat.

So, I was bracing myself for an "okay" kind of day.

But it was fabulous :)

My friends in the CIEE program were great, wishing me happy birthday as soon as they saw me. I wasn't allowed to pay for lunch and I was constantly asked what I wanted to do. I was sung "happy birthday" in derija class and our teacher gave me a cute little key chain. After class ended, I was surprised with a birthday cake and really felt appreciated :) They sang "happy birthday" in English, Arabic, French and Spanish (just for me =P )!

Afterwards I headed home and was looking forward to Skyping my dad (with whom I share a birthday) and hopefully getting to talk to Lucas as well. My sweet host family surprised me with a birthday cake, candles and a beautiful gift. I was so overwhelmed I was almost brought to tears. My family sang me happy birthday in Arabic, Amazigh, English (soooo cute) and Korean!! So yes, it was a day of many languages :D

Nope, I didn't spend the day giggling with Lucas or reminiscing with friends from home, but I definitely had a good day, enjoying exactly where I am.