The first date I have had in a while!

The last day of Eid Al Fitr and the calmness of 'Normality' (Which doesn't exist in Luxor) is creeping back in after the excitement and celebrations which have taken place over the last 3 days.

These fresh dates, or 'Bellah' have been taking their time to ripen in a friends garden. Each time I visit, I check to see how they are doing and today, was picking day, they were ready.

Sayed climbed onto a chair and carefully selected the best dates, which only he knows how to do. I am guessing that is the depth of the colour which determines the ripe factor?

Here are some interesting factoids about dates....Did you know that;

They are used to break the fast during Ramadan.

The Ancient Egyptians used to make wine from them.

Tables, chairs and ornate objects are made from the main vein of the leaves.

The Date Palm trees are either male or female, with 50% of seedlings being the female (Fruit bearing) The male can wind pollinate up to 100 females!

If you ever get the chance to try a fresh date, do. They are nothing like the ones in England in the plastic containers (With long fork) covered in gooey, sticky stuff, at Christmas. They are de-lish!