Top 5 Instagram Accounts for Christmas

Miss Craft Berry Bush has all things Christmas right now, and we couldn’t be happier about it.

These totally-fab interior designers have all the tips and tricks you’ll need to smarten up your own home or apartment for Christmas.

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If traditional Christmas styling isn’t really for you, look no further than the Instagram account of the A Beautiful Mess team Elsie and Emma for some great ideas.

Kelly Elko, who runs this account, finds cool things everywhere, consistently inspiring us to up our decorating game.

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How to Sync your Android Device with Mac

Syncing an iPhone with a Mac is a piece of cake. But what about Mac users who are

using Android phones?

They will find that syncing an Android phone with OS X isn’t quite as obvious. That

said, it isn’t terribly difficult either, here’s what to do:

2. Top Android Sync Manager apps for Mac

Here’s the Top Mac software for syncing your Android device to your Mac. Some of this software requires Wi-Fi

connection, some can work via USB cable.

MobileGo for Android Pro (Mac): A powerful sync manager to sync contacts, apps, music, photos, videos and more

between an Android device and Mac by using a USB cable. With this easy-to-use software, you can upload and

download all types of data and also manage your applications. You can install or remove apps, send SMSes, transfer

files of all formats and save a backup of your phone data on your computer.

DoubleTwist: This free app is a great Android sync manager for windows and Mac. You can sync music from your

computer to your Android phone or tablet in a snap. Just like iTunes for Mac, doubleTwist software is for Android. You

can keep your music collection organized, sync music, video and photos back it up on your computer, subscribe to

podcasts and even listen to live radio. It also syncs video and photos, and has a very clear and intuitive interface.

SyncMate: It allows instant data sync and backup from your Android to your Mac. It has an excellent interface and is

very easy to use. It can sync contacts, calendar, photos, videos, documents, text messages etc. by using the IP

address of your Android device.

Your December Star

Saying goodbye to a departing year and welcoming the new can stir up no end of emotions, memories and anticipation. How do the planets help us through this transition this December? Are we still trying to find our equilibrium after that Saturn to Neptune square last month, where our sense of security and comfort zones were shaken in way we might not easily swing back from? When Uranus goes into direct motion again on the 26th December we can hope for developments to take a more positive turn. Yes, there are still bumps on the road ahead this month, but good times as well, so let’s go forward, armed with a new clarity and resolve to embrace what 2016 throws at us.

 

 

Our Birthday Sign

Sagittarius

23 November –21 December

 

You, more than many, may have felt the impact of the recent Saturn aspect. Known for your eternal search for truth; the exposure of deceptions, misconceptions and smoke-screened situations may have left you feeling cynical and defeatist. Dig deep into that Jupiter-ruled psyche of yours and spread inspiration to those around you; you have the power to do it. Key dates for feeling good are the 1st, the 11th, when there is a New Moon in your birth sign, and the 30th, when Venus and your ruling planet Jupiter are in harmony.

Aries

21 March –20 April

December asks you to focus on what rings true for you. Don’t accept glib explanations or media hype, do a bit of soul-searching instead. There will be matters related to your career aspirations to handle as diplomatically as possible, as well as joint finances or debts to be settled. The 6th is a day to exercise damage control, avoid arguments if possible, tempers might flare. The 11th is also a day when nerves may be on edge; it seems that your patience is being tested to the max these days. Try to use the 25th to smooth any feathers you may have ruffled during the month.

Taurus

21 April –21 May

You can actually feel a little upbeat this December, harmonious aspects to your 7th house improve prospects for close relationships and partnerships. Planets in Capricorn will be supportive of any travel plans, or visits from friends from afar, so start getting your wardrobe in order for a busy social season. The 6th is tense, try to keep strong personal opinions out of workplace discussions, even though it could be difficult. The 11th, 17th and 24th are great for partying. You could be the star of the show.

Gemini

 22 May –21 June

Someone near and dear to you may be going through a stressful time, so try to put your own worries to one side and be as supportive as you can. Your solar 5th House is highlighted on the 6th and the 11th, indicating a need to be extra vigilant in anything related to children, or sport and exercise. Relationships with colleagues and the general mood around the workplace should be lively, so take time out for a bit of fun. On the upside, the final days of the year are perfect for getting together with friends, including some you may not have seen for a while.

Cancer

22 June –22 July

Inspiration and a new approach on the work front will set the month off to a good start on the 1st, but remember to keep things in balance. Domestic responsibilities, family and your closest relationships may suffer if you allow yourself to be distracted. When Venus slips into compatible water sign Scorpio on the 5th you can look forward to some romantic moments, or at least pleasant pastimes. Excellent days for planning something special fall on the 11th, 17th and 24th.

 

 

Leo

23 July –22 August

Seasonal festivities should have you in the mood for creating a stunning a mbience at home. It seems that home entertaining holds more appeal than going out on the town this month, so practise your hosting skills. Just don’t overdo things, the 19th and 21st could see you feeling a bit below par health-wise. The 24th is a day when you can pull out all the stops, relax, mix and mingle, there really will be a feeling of goodwill in the air.

Virgo

23 August –23 September

Like fellow earth sign Taurus, the planets are supporting your efforts during December. Of course, we can’t expect to have smooth sailing all the way, and you may have financial frustrations and unexpected expenses to contend with. Plan for contingencies. With a lot of focus this month in your 3rd solar house of communication you should make time to be more communicative and outgoing. That means sending a few New Year’s greetings to friends you have been out of touch with as well!

Libra

24 September – 23 October

Normally peace-loving Libra may be at the forefront of a few battles this December. Try to keep the peace around the home, and be patient with older family members. Days to watch are the 6th and the 11th.The good news is that finances should be on the up and up, maybe an end-of-year bonus or raise? Make the most of the festive mood on the 24th, people should be in a laid-back mood and ready to party

Scorpio

22 December –20 January

This is a month of mixed aspects. You personal charisma is at an all-time high for a lot of the month, but that could be a double edged sword with jealous rivals ready to create gossip and cast dispersions when they get a chance. Clever Scorpio knows how keep things discreet, so that should be the golden rule this December. There may be a small chance of needing  to watch health matters, either your own or someone close to you, so don’t ignore any symptoms, better to be safe than sorry.

Capricorn

22 December –20 January

It may take a bit of prodding to get you into a festive mood, but with so many invitations flooding in you should soon let loose your ‘party animal’. The trick will be to juggle a busy schedule. Tensions could arise when you find career obligations running up against domestic responsibilities, just do your best!  Capricorns are masters of the art of organization, so strut your stuff! If you were born between the 5 to 7th of January watch out for stress around the 6th and 11th, you may feel that your personal boundaries are being threatened.

Aquarius

21 January –19 February

While your ruling planet Uranus has been in retrograde motion you may have felt that your ideas were considered out of touch. Now, as Uranus reverts to direct motion on the 26th  ,you should find a much more appreciative audience. Your public persona should be getting some attention, make sure you dress to impress when needed.  It’s not the best month for tangling with bureaucracy; try to avoid dealing with this until the new year if possible. Good days for getting together with friends are the 24th and 30th.

Pisces

20 February –20 March

Friends from afar, or a spot of travel for yourself. Whichever way it goes you should have plenty to stimulate your mind as December gets under way. There are a few niggles to contend with, maybe in the form of heated discussions over joint finances on the 6th and 11th. You may find a special rapport with fellow water sign Scorpio, they can give you emotional strength and boost your spirits when you feel a bit down this month. Don’t forget to get out your most glamourous threads for parties around the 17th and 24th of December..

Is it really ADHD

We’ve seen quite a few moms at our practice voicing concerns that their children might be suffering from ADHD. Don’t worry!  Most kids end up not diagnosed with ADHD. To ease your concerns, we decided to give you a quick guide on the topic.

The signs and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) typically appear before the age of seven. However, it can be difficult to distinguish between ADHD and normal kid behavior.

Just because a child has symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity does not mean that he or she has ADHD. Many kids who can’t pay attention don’t necessarily have an attention deficit. They may not have been taught the skill of concentration and merely have a short attention span! Helping your child to concentrate and focus is a critical life skill.

Here are a few ways to improve your child’s concentration levels:

  • Promote a healthy lifestyle: Good nutrition and enough sleep are huge factors in helping your child concentrate on a task. Studies have shown that a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and veggies will help your child’s brain functions. Try to avoid foods that have coloring in them, as they may increase hyperactivity in children.
  • Set tasks according to your child’s maturity level: Often, the reason kids lose focus on a task is because it’s either too easy or too hard for them. Take a close look at the activity and make sure it’s the right skill level for your child.
  • Divide big projects into small tasks: A great tactic to help increase your child’s concentration is to split the task up into smaller pieces. Big projects can overwhelm.
  • Minimize distractions: Give your child a quiet place to work when focus is necessary. Remember that kids haven’t developed the same ability to screen out distractions that adults have acquired
  • Control the use of television and electronics: Experts agree that kids under two should not watch TV at all while older children should only be allowed 1-2 hours a day. Too much TV and electronics can prevent children from doing intellectual and physical activities like, reading, doing homework, playing outside, and interacting with friends and family.
  • Get your child moving: It has been scientifically proven that children that do at least 30 minutes of exercise per day are more likely to do well in school, focus better and generally be more positive.
  • Play Memory games: The ability to focus is like a muscle. With practice, a person can experience longer and more effective periods of concentration. Use memory games as a fun way to increase your child’s ability.
  • Be honest and open with your child: If something is going on within the family, talk to your child about his or her feelings. The stress of the tension that might be going on within the household could be the leading cause of the lack of concentration.
  • Supplement with proper essential fatty acids: Some studies have shown that children who supplement their diet with essential fatty acids (EFA’s), also known as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have a lower likelihood of developing neurological disorders like ADHD, depression and anxiety. However, studies examining whether EFA’s help improve symptoms of ADHD have produced mixed results. In the meantime, eating foods that are high in EFA’s is a good approach. Examples of these foods are oily fish (e.g. salmon and sardine), flaxseed (linseed), soya oil and walnuts. Consult your child’s doctor first before deciding to use any EFA supplement for your child.

Before a diagnosis of ADHD can be made, it is important to rule out the following possibilities:

  • Learning disabilities or problems with reading, writing, motor skills, or language.
  • Major life events or traumatic experiences (e.g. a recent move, death of a loved one, bullying, divorce).
  • Psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
  • Behavioral disorders such as conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder.
  • Medical conditions, including thyroid problems, neurological conditions, epilepsy, and sleep disorders.

So if your child is suffering from attention and hyperactivity issues, it may be worth digging deeper to determine if that’s really the issue.

 

Romanov in Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski

 

Type of cuisine:  European Grill House

Signature dishes: The restaurant’s menu is designed for gourmands. It features a selection of seafood, from lobster and beluga caviar to oysters and mussels. Their steaks range from the finest Australian beef to the best Wagyu meat cuts. Their signature dish is a 600g Australian Chateaubriand that serves two people. All meat cuts are served with their unique rosemary potatoes and herbal butter. 

Dishes sampled: Impeccable dish presentation – from the soft brown bread covert served with seasoned butter and sardine paste. All dishes sampled were displayed with the utmost attention to detail. For starters we chose their Classic Beef Tartar which came accompanied by thin crispy deep fried sweet potato chips. Another choice was their Marinated Salmon on a bed of cream cheese, Ikura caviar, thin onion slices and sprinkled with capers. As a main dish we opted for one of their premium meat cuts – the Sirloin – cooked medium – and accompanied by a whole bulb of oven baked garlic, cherry tomatoes and mushroom sauce on the side. The meat was perfectly sealed, leaving it juicy and tender. As burgers now have entered a new gourmet level we thought of trying their 50/50 Burger. A thick burger patty made of half American Angus and half Australian Wagyu. You can enhance you burger experience by adding a slice of seared foie gras – and that is how we ordered it. The burger experience was nothing short of the ones experienced in Paris. On the side, potato gratin and grilled baby tomatoes. We finished off our dinner by enjoying every single bite of our desserts: vanilla mousse with sponge cake and dark chocolate mousse filled with cherry jam.

Other menu options that appealed: We would have loved to taste the Beluga caviar – but were being polite.

Décor: Imposing and elegant decoration, the restaurant has a beautiful view of the swimming pool. Comfortable velvet chairs and classy table settings are spread out, making your dining experience cozy and private. Hunting portraits are featured along the restaurant walls – reminiscent of a royal hobby. The lights are dimmed and soft lounge music is played. You can watch the chefs mastering their abilities through the large kitchen glass window. A separate room for wine tasting is located between the restaurant and the cigar bar on the other side.

Beverages: Selection of fresh juices, soft drinks, and a full bar/ wine tasting room.

Clientele mix: Couples and executives – definitely a venue for a special celebration.

Price range: Expensive, but worth it for a memorable dining experience.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 7  – 12 am-, closed on Mondays

Address: Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, First Settlement,  New Cairo

Tel:  02 2389 9000

Facebook page: kempinskiroyalmaxim

Instagram: kempinskiroyalmaxim

Fat Cow

The Name Says it All!

Concept: Authentic American Burger

Mantra: Build your own burger

Opening hours: Weekdays 12 -11 pm & until 2 am on weekends

Address: 73, Road 9, Maadi

Tel: 0101 600 0554

Facebook page: Fat Cow Egypt

Type of cuisine: Gourmet Burgers

Beverages: Local and imported soft drinks. Expect to find Canada Dry Ginger Ale, Dr. Pepper and Root Beer.

Signature dishes: Choose from a variety of different toppings and sauces and customize your own burger. The menu is very concise and straightforward. You came for a burger and that is what they will treat you to. No frills. To get started you choose between: American Angus Beef, Chicken or Shrimp. Yes they do actually have a shrimp patty. The chicken comes in two options either grilled or buffalo style which is spiced with hot sauce. Having decided on the core ingredient of your burger, you move on to taking your picks to build your own heavenly burger. Select your cheese, sauces (from American ketchup to Hickory BBQ and Chipotle Mayo) and toppings (the basic lettuce, onion, tomatoes, Dill pickles). And if you are still seeking the ultimate touch, go for the premium toppings: caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, fried onion strings etc. Wrap it up with 5 side dish alternatives: fries, jalapeños poppers, onion rings, potato salad, or coleslaw. If you are lacking ideas check their chalkboard for some inspirational set burgers, (see sampled dishes).

Dishes sampled: We were treated to a real burger feast. Uncle Sam, a succulent burger patty of 220g of American Angus beef, served with cheddar cheese lettuce, tomatoes and onions; The Swiss has caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese and steak sauce; Grilled Chicken is served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions and chipotle mayo; Buffalo Chicken is served with ranch sauce and Shrimp burger comes with tartar sauce. Their bread is a secret recipe that was mastered after 24 trials – in a combination of the two best recipes put together.  The burgers are served in food boxes that are unfolded into a placemat and folded back if you want to take away your burger home. There’s no need for plates, forks and knives. Perfectly seasoned chunky Belgian French fries and mouth watering jalapeños poppers accompanied our burger selection. From the meat to the ingredients Fat Cow takes you to the States in a bite.

Other menu options that appealed: Onion rings, potato salad and coleslaw.

Décor: Fat Cow is located downstairs under Costa Café. Their name in big shiny steel letters will easily catch your eye. The restaurant is small, cozy and neat, with a couple of indoor tables, as well as high tables and stools outdoors. It can get easily crowded. Their burger suggestion is written on a retro blackboard. Look up at their ceiling and you’ll find the chalk graffiti bull.

Home delivery:  Maadi

Clientele mix: Students, friends, families and midnight owl.

Price range: Reasonably priced for the size and quality of the burger you get. No service charges applied.

 

Cairo Marriott Garden Promenade Café

Concept:  A hotspot for weekend brunches where family, friends and hotel quests can kick-start their day.

Ambiance: It’s the king of the outdoors, perfect for Friday brunch with a scenic view of the lush gardens, and live jazz music.

Opening hours: 1-5pm for the best BBQ in town.

Address: Cairo Marriott Hotel Zamalek and Omar Khayyam Casino, 16 Saray El Gezira St.

Tel:  02 27 28 3000

Facebook page: Cairo Marriott Hotel Zamalek and Omar Khayyam Casino

Instagram: Cairo Marriott

Type of cuisine: Garden Promenade Café is the best people-watching venue in town, but it’s also known for the delicious, creative, international and ethnic food it serves. With the BBQ special you will find roasts of lamb and beef, cooked exactly as you like them. With a wide range of side dishes from fresh vegetables to pasta, it’s got all you’ll ever need for a successful Friday brunch.

Beverages: A great selection of fresh juices, soft drinks and a full bar.

Dishes sampled: Rigatoni pasta with bechamel, topped off with parmesan. A BBQ platter with succulent roasts of topside, kofta and tender, juicy ribs.

The sushi menu showcased a range of the classics, including California and Alaska roll, vegetarian maki and the spicy tuna. All were fresh and simple, showcasing quality ingredients and expertise.

The dessert buffet had a huge variety with something for everyone, from chocolate chip cookies, to a mountain of macaroons of all colours, mini-gateaux, creamy chocolate mousse, also the traditional kunafa and basbousa. A feast for the eyes and equally as delicious.

Décor: A royal garden with historical statues surrounding it gives it a truly magical ambiance, ideal for relaxing on a sunny Friday afternoon.

Clientele mix: Family, friends and hotel quests enjoying the warm breeze, sunshine and delicious food.

 

How To Bake Delicious Ginger Cookies for Christmas

Being more of a traditionally foreign holiday, celebrating Christmas in Egypt has become significant and important over the past decade, across all sectors – private and public.  Restaurants, hotels, cafés, schools, shops and even people at home make a lot of effort to celebrate this warm festive season.

In the name of this warm, special season, we’ve decided to share with you a few tips about Christmas cooking/hosting parties as well as a traditional Christmas cookies recipe to go with it.

Some tips to have in mind, if you’re having a Christmas gathering:

  • Don’t keep everything until the last minute; make sure you only have the final touches to go so you can spend time with your friends and family.
  • Don’t choose too many complicated recipes: Especially if you are baking with kids. You will avoid baking fatigue as well as keep the kids interested in your holiday traditions.
  • If any of your guests are bringing any food over, ask them to get it ready to serve in order to avoid chaos in the kitchen or delay in serving the food.
  • Ask some of your friends or family to help, if you’re making dinner for a crowd. You need it!
  • Make sure you buy all your ingredients a day beforehand, to guarantee your cooking and baking run smoothly. Get the dry ingredients way in advance and leave the fresh and risky ones like milk, eggs, cheese, etc until the end.

Christmas Ginger Cookies

Tip: Bake in Christmas shaped moulds for fun!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup vegetable shortening or butter
  • ¼ cup molasses
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Using an electric mixer at low speed, cream the shortening/butter and sugar until thoroughly combined.
  3. Add the egg and molasses and beat until completely incorporated.
  4. Sift together the flour, baking soda, spices and salt and add to mixture.
  5. Stir together until combined, then roll dough into balls that you will flatten later with fork on baking sheet, or stuff into baking moulds you have.
  6. Make sure to dip dough into sugar first.
  7. Place on butter paper, onto baking tray and place in the oven.
  8. Bake for 12 minutes and cool on wire racks after for another half hour before you serve.
  9. For an extra kick, mix 1/2 cup water, 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, squeeze of lemon and two drops of your favorite food coloring in a bowl, to create icing for the cookies.

Ahmed Dawood

Captivates Audiences

 

From the Sinister Saber you Loved to Hate to the Full-Blown Star he is Today

By Shorouk Abbas

 

This charismatic star took an indirect path to find his niche. After graduating with a degree in engineering, Ahmed Dawood first fell into work as a theatre actor. It was then that he discovered his sharp knack for picking roles in noteworthy movies, an attribute that propelled him on his course to stardom. His fame then skyrocketed after his role as Saber in Segn El Nessa, also starring Nelly Karim, a couple of years ago. Cairo East Magazine was intrigued by Dawood’s path to success. Getting to meet him in person was an affirmation of what it takes to become such a star. He is warm and witty, yet his smile reveals a childlike curiosity about life and the magical unfolding of his career.

CEM: What is the moment or event that has impacted your life the most?

AD: Saber, my character in the series Segn El Nessa. Kind characters are boring and don’t leave an impact. Saber is a complex character. He is mean and devious, yet the audience identified with him and saw what made him this way. His character became interesting because people were drawn to him and absolutely hated him at the same time.

How did you prepare for this role?

Normally when I read a script it either clicks or it doesn’t the very first time I read it. Once I make the decision of accepting the role, the visualization process starts happening instinctively. However, to do the role of Saber I spent a week in a microbus station. I would hop in a microbus and just be there to feel the energy of the people and get some clues from the driver. After that, I would take another one and get to live another story in that microbus. I had to experience this life before I played the role.

What about the movie Welad Rezk, what was that experience like?

The location gave me the energy I needed for the role. We were filming in Ain Al Seera and that in its’ self put me in character. Although the plot of the movie is not a normal story for people living in that area, still I felt more inspired and creative just by being there.

Before the Summer Crowd (Abl Zahmet El Seif ) is now participating in the Dubai Film Festival and will be playing in theatres in Egypt very soon. Tell us about your role in this movie.

I am actually excited to see it! It was filmed on a beach in the North Coast and I play a simple, kind porter from Upper Egypt. I serve people in that compound and get them their groceries and tend to their demands. It’s a role of a poor, uncomplicated guy so that was a dramatic change from my role as Saber in Segn El >>

 

Nessa. The setting was also conducive to serenity and peace. Being by the sea gave all of us good energy. The movie is directed by the legendary Mohamed Khan and stars Hana Shiha and Maged El Kedwany.

You are now working with Youssry Nassrallah on El Ma2 Wel Khodra Wal Wagh Al 7assan, how is that experience?

The movie is about the life of cooks in villages and is being filmed in Mansoura. These are people who cook for weddings and big events. I really enjoyed working with Youssry Nassarallah, mostly because he seriously gets to know the actor. This gives him more access to my skills and gets me working on a deeper level. He actually works on me as an actor, which helps me develop in many ways.

What brings you the greatest joy?

A good scene after I am done with it. Before that, I am usually tense and after that I worry about the next one. So actually only in that moment I feel exhilarated. It’s the gap between the mental exertions.

What’s the best advice you have been given?

It’s actually strange. In 2006, I won a prize for a role in a play in the French Cultural Center. I was a theatre actor back then. The prize was a trip to France to be coached by a renowned French acting coach. I did not speak French at the time so all I could do was perform the acting without speaking (miming), which was of course more difficult. The coach was so impressed with my talent and I will never forget what he told me. “Never let anyone break you. Do not lose yourself to any compromises or financial gain. ”

What are you reading now?

An Arabic novel called Hepta written by Mohamed Sadek. It’s about relationships between men and women. He has an interesting way of putting them in categories. It’s going to be made into a movie too.

Last movie you’ve watched?

The Network. It’s a 70’s movie about ratings and someone being killed because his viewership went down.

Three things you can’t live without?

A paper pad and a pen. I always write what happens to me and how it made me feel. It’s not journaling. I do not write the events of the day. Only incidents that impacted the way I feel, whether good or bad. It acts a reference for me and I go back to read it when I need to.

Also, my mobile, and a photo of my wife Ola and my kids Adam and Mila.

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