#desertdesserts

These dynamic Egyptian women were an uplifting end to a day that got off to a wobbly start. I should have known the day would get better when in the afternoon I met and got into a conversation with the lovely, Mira Meran Saad. She asked me what I liked about Siwa… and was very patient when she got the long and involved answer, which is probably a post in itself (written or unwritten).

Hours later, I bumped into Mira in a restaurant where I was getting takeaway grilled leg and thigh (always so fresh and moist - and quick), salad, flatbread and tahini. We chatted while I waited and Mira introduced me to her friend. Mayra has a colourful dessert corner in the restaurant (which, to be honest, I try to stay away from). Both women made me smile and were exuberant and excited - about life, really. Maybe that’s youth. Mira, who has relocated to Siwa, was talking about her marketing work and Mayra (who I assume is not Siwan as she was not covered and has her own business in public) was on her way home to cook 150 deserts for the next day.

Mira said I was full of energy and Mayra asked ME for a hug!!! I think the first Egyptian (assuming she is one) who’s asked ME for a hug!! She totally made my day!!!

The wonderful thing is that Mayra’s venture, ‘SLOW: Bake & Cake’, is about “Enjoy life eat cake”. I noticed the word Slow repeated on various signs up on her walls. I asked her if she’d heard about the concept of slow food, as opposed to fast food, and she’d hadn’t. She had come to it herself.

Later, I thought I didn’t ask Mayra what slow meant to her. I didn’t listen. I whizz through life quickly and too often, miss the present moment. I find slowing everything right down a struggle even though it feels so wonderful when I do. Note to self: “I must ask Mayra more about her concept of slow, next time I see her.”

Maybe, it’s time for dessert in the desert! Couldn't help it …