It’s my birthday today – one year close to death, as I cynically mutter every time this day happens – and in light of that, I thought I’ll list of a bunch of things I’ve learned in the past year.

1. Top Gear is one of the most original, funny, and eye-popping shows I’ve ever seen. And I’m definitely not a gear head.
2. It really isn’t the heat – it’s the humidity.
3. Indeed, distance does make the heart grow fonder.
4. Don’t swear on Twitter. Actually, don’t lose your cool, in general.
5. There are always – always – two sides to every story.
6. The production side of newspapers is not only really, really important, but it’s really, really fun as well.
7. There is nothing nice to be said about airports. Nothing.
8. I am nothing without my iPhone. Nothing.
9. I am quite terrified to live in a place which does not give pedestrians the right of way.
10. The amount that feral cats in the Middle East are well-fed is directly proportional to the distance to a western-populated office.
11. Lemon mint juices are not only inexpensive, but a great way to cool off in the heat.
12. I’ve learned more working with a bunch of British journalists in one day than I ever have at journalism school.
13. Living off $1 sharamas may seem like a great way to cut food costs, but your stomach will not appreciate it after the third day of greasy chicken wraps.
14. There’s really no point in walking in the Middle East. Your car is your second home.
15. I don’t miss rain or snow as much as I originally thought.

There’s probably more, but these are the only ones I can think of right now.