No doubt this latest car bomb will make the news at home, so I thought I'd be preemptive and send an email.
I'm safe and sound. I was at school in the cafeteria at lunch time.
Student council was selling roses for valentines day and I was buying some.
Simultaneously there was a huge ka-boom sound, the windows rattled and the air seemed to compress. Dust began to settle from the rafters and when I took a few steps outside into the cafeteria courtyard I noticed a tall plume of black smoke rising near the school. Of course, I knew right away what it was, but I remained calm in front of the students.
Later we found out the former PM was killed. The Lebanese staff are visibly shaken. Apparently this is a big deal. He was a controversial figure, but respected by many. To many, this is another example of Syria's influence in the political infrastructure of Lebanon. Elections are scheduled for May and it will be interesting to see what happens.
In the meantime, school is closed the rest of the week. Marcey and I will enjoy sushi and TV for Valentine's Day and keep you all posted as events warrant.
Stu