Thoughts from the desk of the Barefoot Empress...

Desertion!!!

2011-06-04T16:16:00.004-04:00

Salaam Alaikum, my dearest people...... and hello to everyone/anyone else reading my blurb... yeah, it's been a LOOOONG while since the Empress has passed through... I know, this action is called desertion or abandonment but I HAVE been busy! Six months worth of busy... on many different levels. And I must admit, a little lazy too with sitting down to actually type about life nowadays- as I have stated before, it's become toooo easy to keep up with family and friends on FB... I just type a few lines and hit that "share" button = life and/or thoughts sent!

So many things have happened in six months, Alhamdulillah, mostly all good so I don't where to exactly begin... there hasn't been anything "major" to report about... just keeping up the brood with the eldest two being in school- handling their studies and trying to keep them on track with all the have to do... it's amazing just how much work the wee ones get these days... my daughter will enter 2nd grade in the fall, and I must tell you, the work load from last year with ALL the textbooks was astounding!!!! But my Naughty Princess worked very diligently so she did well, thanks and praises be to Allah! And add to all that schoolwork, she and her brother have a Qur'an/Arabic teacher who comes to our home 3-4 times per week for 2 hours each session.... and she gives her a bunch of homework too each class!!! My daughter's school year ritual: off the bus, wash her hands, have a snack, within that hour span- in with tutor for 2 hours, dinner and homework simultaneously since the work load is unbelievable... so she can sleep by 8! Poor thing.... so my reward for her hard work? A nice little Princess party!!! I invited a bunch of little girls so they could all play "dress up" and eat and run around... complete with princess crowns and coloring books.... along with face painting and my favorite obsession, henna! They all had a blast and it appears all the Mommies had a good time as well.... :)

So, now, I'm prepping my third child for baby class for the fall... my big dilemma right now? Finding a good/safe/educationally sound preschool to enroll him in for the summer... I want to get him ready and used to the idea of not being with me or seeing me all day.... I don't want him to have a panic attack or start crying when the school year rolls around so I think this is a good time for my "shadow" to gain some more independence.... but all the best preschools have no space!!! So, what is a Mom to do when she's looking to make it happen for her kid? Call and play the "art of negotiation".... that's what all the smart Mommies try to do anyways... ha! What can I tell ya... you can take the girl outta New York.... ;)

There are many ideas/past passions lingering in my mind that I need to tie up, do something with but I don't know where to begin exactly... some has to do with writing (book and article writing) and the other stuff is centered around my brood.... my biggest problem is that living in Cairo, it's hard to find or get to the resources you need in order to be successful... some things we would find to be trivial back home is a BIG to-do here... and it sucks. Either people don't know, it doesn't exist here or it's insanely mega expensive to obtain.... I guess the mentality is, if you're smart enough to know about it or seek it out, you got the mula to pay for it..... :S

Now... will I promise like I have in the past to post on Fridays... nah, I can't make the commitment especially with summer being here... I'll be busy scooting the bigger kids to practices, Insha'Allah (gotta make them well-rounded) and back home in the afternoons for a jump start on next year's Arabic and keep up with their Qur'an lessons.... while I find and hopefully be "scooting" the third spawn back and forth to his summer session... somewhere.... which means I'll just have my Mini-me son at home, attached like glue to my lap...... :)

I hope these lines find all of you in the very best of everything.... and I will try to pop back in sooner than six months from now!!! Sending you all my warmest wishes...... be well!!!

Sisterhood: Are YOU your sister's keeper? The lost art of friendship

2010-12-15T01:26:00.033-05:00

Salaam Alaikum everyone in the blog world.... you know, I have been talking about an issue for a while as I've been watching how we, as Muslim women, embrace each other with companionship/friendship... and our relationships amongst ourselves have deteriorated into nothing!

I've met more than a few women after moving here to Cairo and me being me, embraced everyone for "face value" but after a while, you "weed out" the not-so good ones and keep the rest... meaning I see if the person is one I would want to keep company with long enough to consider her a friend: is she upstanding? A backbiter? A slanderer? A liar? A drama queen? These type of people are counter-productive... and very bad for YOUR Islam. You ARE the company you keep as if you don't start out that way eventually you WILL become part of that which they do... seriously, are you looking for extra sins??? I know I have more than enough to repent for, as we all do but you need to protect yourself and your deen from the fitnah that lies within these treacherous borders....

An honorable sister posted a good message in one of the Muslimah forums on Facebook about backbiting/slander which I think, would be beneficial for ALL to read...

Salaamu alaikum everyone,

Some of the fitnah on here needs to be stopped dead in it's tracks. I am one of those people who feels like everything is what you make of it. I don't think Facebook is evil or that it is a fitnah because the same people who will be on here causing all kinds of trouble will be on the phone doing it if they didn't have internet, or will be at the masjid saying all kinds of things etc... it is all about what you make it but there needs to be an understanding attained from all of this. There is NEVER a reason to knowingly sin. I don't care if someone is on your page, in their house or even in YOUR house sinning, what you do will go right along with them, or even do something that is haraam back, you are just as wrong. Your being angry is not an excuse. Honestly, there are only two excuses for it, either you are not at the age of understanding (puberty) or you are majnoon (insane). If you have a mental disease or ailment, this isn't the same as being insane. Being insane means you don't understand and lack the intellect to control yourself and your actions. It's not just having some diagnosis, no matter what it is, and thinking this is now an excuse to hurt others and oppress them with no accountability

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The Pen has been lifted from three: from the insane person who has no control over his reason until he recovers, from the sleeper until he wakes up, and from the child until he reaches puberty. ”Narrated by Abu Dawood (4399); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

When the woman asks about her husband the scholar replied in the case of your husband’s sickness, either he is aware of what he is doing and saying, or he is not aware. If he is aware, then he is accountable for what he says and does, and it is not permissible for him to accuse you or to fail to raise his children; he must do what Allah has enjoined upon him of acts of worship and obedience, and not do that which Allah has forbidden. In this case you must carry out all marital duties and it is not permissible for you to neglect them. If he is not aware of what he is saying and doing as the result of this sickness, then he is no longer accountable for what he says and does.

As you can see from the above statements, you can't have some and not the other... Either you understand and know what you are doing is wrong or you don't. If you do, then you do and using a mental ailment as an excuse (unless it is valid) is not a reason to mistreat and oppress others. The way I feel personally is that if enough of us put in some mental symptoms that we experience into Google, I am sure we would have some kind of diagnosis at the end of the day, myself included. I am pretty sure I would come out with anger management issues, and maybe even ADD... At times, I am sure I was even depressed... but it was and still is NO reason for me to do wrong against myself, or others, and most importantly, my lord. As he is an ever all watcher over us and knows what we do.

Prophet Muhammad said :"Do you know what backbiting is?" They said, "God and His Messenger know best." He then said, "It is to say something about your brother that he would dislike." Someone asked him, "But what if what I say is true?" The Messenger of God said, "If what you say about him is true, you are backbiting him, but if it is not true then you have slandered him." (Muslim)

"I asked the Messenger of God : Who is the best Muslim? The Messenger of God replied, "He is the one from whom Muslims are safe from the evil of his tongue and hands." (Muslim)

"When man wakes up in the morning each day, all parts of the body warn the tongue saying, ‘Fear God as regards us for we are at your mercy; if you are upright, we will be upright and if you are crooked, we become crooked.’" (At-Tirmidhee)

Backbiting isn't only something that someone does about one person, it could even be about a group of people. And before you go listening to what someone says about someone else, just remember that it may not be something that is true that is being stated. The person could be out right lying or lying by omission. I have seen it so much where people tell only what others do to them, not what they do to other people. Then everyone is looking at the other person as if they have wronged the other individual when really, it was none of your business to begin with and it didn't help you to find out and would not have hurt you to never know.

It was narrated by Abu Hurairah that the Messenger (Salallahu Alayhi Wa Salaam) said, "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent." Sahih Bukhari.

Allah said what was translated in the Qur'an, "Oppression is worse than murder." (Surah Baqarah: Ayah 192)

Even if you are not the one saying something about anyone else, if you are listening and lending an ear to it, then you are just as guilty and will carry the same sin. We all have the ability to cut it off at the head and end it often time before it even begins.

Here is a suggestion... the next time someone comes and tells you what someone did to them, ask them what they did to make this person do this. If they come acting innocent, just remember that if the other person has any sense about themselves, then you are NOT getting the whole story. You get what you give. If you are not going to get both sides to the story, then don't lend an ear to either side as this is what is fair.

I personally feel that was a very powerful message.... what happened to being your sister's keeper? Most women are so shallow these days, they don't (or won't) form bonds with women for STUPID reasons and then they tend to backbite based on their jealousy... I know what I'm talking about... it's happened to me. These women (for lack of a better term) will dislike you and backbite/slander you because your husband is better looking than theirs(!)... or your children are more beautiful than theirs(!)... or you have some wealth or more means that Allah has blessed you with... you dress better than them... you live in a nicer home than them... your husband is from another nationality than you (yes, people... petty women are even jealous of this)... your shoes are nicer than theirs... your group of friends is bigger than theirs... ?????????????????????????? Is this what we as Muslimahs have become? Why not say, "Masha'Allah" for that sister for all these things that were not begotten by her own hands but was giving to her by the Most-Merciful Allah?

Instead these SAME sisters who backbite and slander will brag and tell you they study Qur'an and Arabic at some of the best centers here and there along with Fiqh and 'Aqeedah but yet they don't practice or apply ANYTHING they've learned.... so, your knowledge is for what exactly? They come home from these same centers of learning and pick up the phone and slander/backbite her sister about something that happened at school... something she heard from another sister... maybe something she saw another sister doing wrong (oh yeah, can't pass up THAT opportunity!)... or PRYING into people's business to get information about other sisters which is none of your concern to begin with- what is this all about? Shaytan has corrupted the minds of more than a few of us... and it's starting to wear away at the very fabric which keeps us tied together as humans, as women, as MUSLIMAHS in Islam.

And let's not forget our children... if your children play often enough with the children of these women, you will more than likely see the same from them... the apple tends not to fall too far from the tree. If they see or hear Mommy doing it, then it's normal and okay. And it's funny, kids will "give you up"- have you ever witnessed this scenario: when you know someone is a backbiter and she loves to talk about people and YOU ARE the target of the moment, you will notice their kids will look at you strange and/or their behavior towards you will be different... seen it... it's happened to me- and I laugh! But they heard Mommy and ALL she had to say about you... and kids are innocent so what do you expect? They are creatures of their environment... so be mindful who your kids are playing with as well- all the little boys who curse or swear or beat on other kids... and all the "too sassy" little girls whose Mothers put colored lip gloss and/or lipstick and nail polish on them when they just stopped wearing diapers... these are the kind of girls you want your daughters playing with? And when she starts to like "Amina's look" and ask you for some, what do you say? I must tell you, I'm very selective with whom my bigger children play with... both of them, Masha'Allah, are good kids and I want to keep them that way as long as possible so I watch the action/behavior of those kids I let them be around. If I see or hear things that I feel should not the behavior of that child, my kids can not keep their company, full stop. My kids circle of friends may not be big but that's okay as they don't need to play with every kid because all the other sisters let their kids play together- if you see something questionable, I would suggest removing your kids from that environment as well... heed the warning!

I blogged about this sisterhood issue over the last few years so if you have time and care to, read my entries from these periods:

Sisterhood... where are thou?

Sisterhood

Moral Support

Where has sisterhood gone?

We all must try to remember our duty(ies) to our fellow sister... and do you really want to eat your sister's flesh? Be mindful of the company you keep for yourself and your children... may Allah protect us all from the whispers of the dejected one (Insha'Allah, Ameen!)

A sweet little Muslimah posted something recently I totally liked... and I think it reflects my attitude as well... if my circle of friends here in Cairo perishes, I feel like this: "I'm in my own little world... that's okay, they know me here."

I'm ever thankful to Allah for all the friends and sisters who know and understand the essence and heart of TRUE sisterhood back home... I do miss them so... may Allah always keep them that way!!!

Will you be your sister's keeper... or will you eat her flesh??? Think about it..... I love you all for the pleasure of Allah!

The Empress is back........

2010-11-22T05:29:00.010-05:00

Salaam Alaikum, my people and hello to everyone else in the blog world.... what's new, World???

Haven't been very good at keeping my promise with popping in on each and every Friday but life just doesn't permit me to do so.... with four little ones, life here can be hectic.... there's always something or somebody waiting or needing my attention!

I wanted to blog a few days ago only to find out just before that my internet service was out... my home phone service was out for over a week so they managed to fix that problem but in the process, they did something to my internet service.. so they called me on my house phone and basically said "okay, we fixed your phone so you can talk now but we jacked your internet service... call the company to fix it.... you're on your own".... thanks, phone people.

Anyhoo, a very lovely sister I know just returned from a fab trip to Turkey and she brought back some goodies I requested.... can't WAIT to see it!!! I'm in need of a vacation myself but my biggest babies are in school so no time to get away. I soooo need a change of scenery but I have no way of escaping..... sigh

I plan to potty train Little Papi starting next month... he's definitely ready now and it's time since I'll be looking to get him "prepped" for baby class in his brother and sister's school come September... so I'm thinking about putting him in a nursery for half a day starting the beginning of the new year so he can be relaxed and not cry when it's time to start the "real" school next fall... he's kinda clingy and I don't want him to cry his head off when it comes time for us to part.... doing it the right way can save your child from experiencing any psychological issues.... I don't want to traumatize my baby! Masha'Allah, for all those who know him, he's a REAL show-stopper and outgoing kid (half of Cairo already know who he is and his name- he attracts ALOT of people) but he needs to spend some time away from me now in order to gain some independence.... aww, then I'll only have one baby left..... my beloved Papito (Masha'Allah).....:(

Looking forward to getting my mind back on track... I haven't been feeling like my overly confidant self for the past few months... and it kinda bothered me. I've always known exactly what I wanted and how I wanted it but for some reason, I've kind of been "side tracked" meaning my mind has been in too many places and I felt strange not knowing what I should do next.... for all those who know me, that's not me!!! But I chalk it all up as having my plate running over for the last 2 years... yeah, soon it will be 2 years since I parted from my friends and family, my land, my home, my language (LOL) and trekked to the other side of the world with three small kids ages then 4, 2 and 6 months while being 5 months pregnant... all alone to start a new life!!! Many called me crazy... most thought I was losing my mind.... alot thought I wouldn't go through with it especially after I found out I was pregnant again BUT I did it!!! I'm not a weak person and when I set my mind to something, it's pretty much a sealed deal so I proceeded as planned.... but anyhow, mentally, I purchased a "bigger" plate so Anisa can be (and feel like) Anisa again.... I have NO TIME to be uncertain.... to doubt myself and what I'm doing... gotta keep moving forward!!!

I ask that you keep me and my family in your prayers.... as we try to live a pleasing life to Allah and do what's best for our family... some time to best thing isn't always the easiest thing so I do what I must for the sake of those I cherish and love.... and hope and pray, in the end, it will prove to have been worth all the trouble...

I'm just a woman (... a Superwoman but still only mortal... LOL) who was thrown into the lion's den and trying to come out victorious AND unscratched... ya think I can do it???

Do you like my post pic? Anyhoo, it was a mental note to myself... anybody coming to Cairo soon, please holla at me... I sooo need some new MAC lip glass.... ;)

Be good, take care and do a random act of kindness to gain some rewards... and remember to try to love those who don't love you!!!

A litte time to gab........ !

2010-10-04T07:21:00.013-04:00

Salaam Alaikum and greetings to the rest of the crew out there!

Had a moment to sit as my two eldest spawns (lol) are in school while the other two make a mess with all the toys.....

Just wanted to check in and see how everyone was doing out there in the world... anything new anyone care to share? Life has been busy here but with small things like getting the rugrats ready for the new school year and spending some quality time with my other half.... we had a great summer!!!

Oh yes, if anyone of you come here to live for any amount of time, DO NOT buy any house hold items from a company called Olympic... you can have a warranty with them and they will make you call time after time, send a technician who will basically come look at said item and tell you everything is good. I have an 11 kg washer/dryer and ever since I had this stupid thing, it's been one problem after the next. It's come down to me screaming into the phone at customer service and demanding supervisors..... and it doesn't matter- here they don't pride themselves in their work or ethics so it's like screaming at a wall. If this were to happen in America, for sure this problem would have been solved MONTHS ago as people don't want their company to have a bad rep so they take care of the problem... sooooo not the case here- they could care less. It's sickening, tiresome and disgusting. My hubby had the delightful experience of being able to witness the daily antics here with the companies, cleaners and other workers.... and his reaction?????? Pfft..... LOL..... told him. Initially, he thought I was "overacting" with my re-enactments via telephone but he saw first hand their lack of knowledge, crappy attitudes, and the sluggish temperament of the lot..... I can't even be angry anymore- it's become like one HUGE joke.... yeah, HA HA..... Dude, where's the flippin' hidden camera?????

Besides, the daily melodrama here, life has been quiet which I guess is good. My online store is there but it's not the fulfillment I was looking for.... I'm kinda looking for something else to do with my time. I want to make something/open something but here it's not easy to make money like back home.... here people want stuff, but they expect to get it for nothing- can't make anything here worth anything because there won't be a profitable return so I'm kinda stuck with ideas. I thought about just forgetting the whole idea of starting something but I want to be productive AND earn some cash.... hey, I got four kids, Masha'Allah!!!! LOL

And oh yesss, my brother is coming to pay us a visit!!!! I'm excited and he's thrilled as he misses his niece and nephews...... it's gonna be nice, Insha'Allah, to have him here. It'll be his first time in Egypt so he'll be armed with his high-powered camera and BIG lens for all the pics I'm sure he's gonna take. As a hobby, he's a photographer and drawing artist so I'm sure this trip will give him lots of fresh material to work on upon his return home! Can't wait to see what he comes up with.

Anyhoo, it's time for me to take a seat on the sofa for cartoons and continue the "munch fest" with Little Papi and Papito before the Naughty Princess and Big Papi's bus arrive.... then it's all business with homework and dinner!!!!

Everybody be safe, take care.... and be happy! Thanks for reading..... :)

P.S. I LOVE my post pic.... American Muslimahs, REPRESENT!!!!!!!

For all you Ebay people..... and other stuff

2010-08-31T12:50:00.004-04:00

Salaam Alaikum!

Just popping by to mention a few little things.... My hubby decided to list some clothing items on Ebay so all you who enjoy wholesale and have a home business, sell at vending fairs, at the masjid, etc., I think we might have something for you! If you check below this post, you will see the listing for the auction.

I truly miss all my sistas back home.... and for all of you reading this, please know that I love you all and can't wait to see you!!!! InshaAllah, I intend to be home next year for Ramadan... and we'll be in the new masjid, MashaAllah!!! I'm tooooo excited..... :)

On another note, since it's been the holiday, Life's Mosaic has been put on hold til after Eid, InshaAllah- then at that point, I'll send invites for those whom I think may be interested in the antics of my brood...... lol

So til next time, take care, be safe and if we don't link up again.... Eid Mubarak!!!! May Allah (SWT) have mercy on us all and accept our prayers and duas...... <3>

Wholesale Lot Abaya, Hijab, Jilbab, Islamic Clothing - eBay (item 150486722458 end time Sep-28-10 14:46:27 PDT)

2010-08-31T12:12:00.000-04:00

Wholesale Lot Abaya, Hijab, Jilbab, Islamic Clothing - eBay (item 150486722458 end time Sep-28-10 14:46:27 PDT)

The Barefoot Empress Boutique is OPEN!

2010-08-14T22:17:00.006-04:00

Salaam Alaikum to my brothers and sisters and greetings to everyone else in the blog world... just wanted to give a "heads up" that the Barefoot Empress Boutique is now open for business on Facebook.

Been fiddling around with everything and I'm NOWHERE near finished with adding items to the store but I decided to open with what I had the chance to list.... it has been a long process! Between taking pics of everything, the home, the kids, the hubby, and now the Holy month of Ramadan has begun, I usually start my "night job" of creating item numbers and descriptions and uploading pics after the kids sleep up until Fajr... InshaAllah, the initial set up of anything can be painstaking and tedious in the beginning- such is life!

Soooooooo, if anyone is interested in giving my little shop a look-see, please feel free to do so... AND as an extra added bonus, if you click that you "LIKE" me, you'll receive a discount off your purchase.....

And I would like to hear what you think of the items listed.... honest feedback to give me a better idea what people may want... I bought all those goodies based on the area and people (and what appealed to me) but a store location and an online store could turn out to be two different things... so let me know.

Don't hesitate to buy something for yourself, your sisters, your sisters in Islam, your wife, husband, brother, kids, blah blah blah.... you get the idea...... :)

I also added a little do-hickey Facebook thingy on the side of this blog so you can click to "like" from this site or you can click on one of the pics to take you to the FB fan page photos..... which is great as you'll be able to see the close-up detail on all the clothing items.

Please refer my page to your friends and family, InshaAllah.... please remember me and make dua for me and my family... and my store, InshaAllah!

I said I was looking for something to do.... this JUST might be it!

Iftar!

2010-08-13T06:20:00.008-04:00

Beautiful images of iftar... even one pic from one my favorite foodie blogs: Yasmeen Health Nut!

Ramadan Mubarak!!!

2010-08-11T05:36:00.009-04:00

Salaam Alaikum my brothers and sisters!

I just wanted to say to everyone have a very joyous, happy and healthy Ramadan..... spend it doing the best of deeds, feeding the poor, helping someone, showing more love to one another, reading Quran and other books of beneficial knowledge, and praying!!!

I doubt if I'll be back with any updates of any sort just maybe to post some beautiful pics of this remarkable month.... :)

From me and my family to you and yours, may Allah (SWT) accept all our prayers and duas.... please remember to make dua for me and mine!!!

Much love from the Empress, the Pakistani Prince, the Naughty Princess, Big Papi, Little Papi & Papito!

Random Update

2010-08-07T17:34:00.003-04:00

Salaam Alaikum everyone... and greetings to everyone else out there in blog land. I finally had the chance to start my little private blog project... and it's almost complete. The only hold up is for some reason I can't load some pics of my brood onto the blog so as soon as I figure that out, it will be up and running..... and I mulled over more than a few names and came up with something I feel perfectly describes us: Life's Mosaic: Tales from the Noisy Kingdom.... LOL!

Oh yes, since I'm paranoid about "putting my kids out there", I did state that the blog will be private.... so those who know me well (and good enough) will receive an invite to view.... and I hope I don't offend anyone but I feel the need to protect my kids' identities....

And I mentioned few posts back about me trying to open an Islamic clothing store and the owner turned out to be a big headache so I let the 2 small stores go.... I will be posting on Facebook within the next few days the items for sale. It includes abayas, usdells (overhead or on-the-head garment), a ZILLION hijabs, Saudi and Egyptian niqabs (material is waaaay different), butterfly abayas, girl and teen prayer garments, men & boys thobes, and gloves. I have a slew of very nice bras but I don't know exactly how to handle that one.... taking pics WILL take forever... but I guess that item will get listed sometime this month.... :)

So for you ladies in the Cairo area, I will basically be having "open house" for the month of Ramadan so you can purchase direct from me.... and of course, I can ship anywhere. Please tell all the sisters you know whom might be looking for some items for Ramadan and Eid for herself, her family or gifts for the sisters!!! In with keeping everything simplistic enough, the name of the page on Facebook will be "the Barefoot Empress Boutique".......

So just in case (again) I don't make it back here, I wish all of you a very happy and healthy Ramadan.... and may Allah (SWT) accept all our prayers and duas... InshaAllah, Ameen!!! I love you all for the pleasure of Allah.... please make dua for me and my family!

Checking In.....

2010-08-04T08:07:00.005-04:00

Greetings all...... just checking in as previously promised.....

I've been thinking about creating a private blog for my babies..... been mulling around a few thoughts about what I would want it to include- haven't narrowed it down yet. I want to make it private as I don't share much info about my brood- as I like to protect them and their identities..... the world can be a strange place and I guess I'm just a little paranoid but that's me. I can't find it within myself to put my kids names and forget about pics, out there for just anyone to look at... feels too weird.... hence the reference to their nicknames here and everywhere else I might mention them.... lol

The years fly by soooo quickly and I was thinking about how to preserve this period of their lives... to capture it for me to look at in the later years and for them as well. For them to look back on themselves growing, smiling, fighting, living in a foreign country, making new friends, traveling around Egypt and the sorts. And now, you have the cool option of turning your blog into a book.... which I feel is totally cool- just might do that.......

Anyhoo, hope everyone is getting ready for the blessed month of Ramadan!!! I'm a mixed bag of emotions as I was looking forward to being in New York, in "my" masjid with my sisters.... doing it how we would do it every year. But instead, I'm here in Cairo, with my family and praying that this year won't anything like the last Ramadan. I was confined, cooped-up and not pleased about not being able to go the masjid.... I already beat that dead horse issue here.... ain't going there again.... sigh

InshaAllah, I plan to check in again before Ramadan officially starts but if I don't make it back and/or you can't come back to read my blurbs, Ramadan Mubarak!!! Much love and kisses from me and my family to you and yours....... :)

Sisterhood.... where art thou?

2010-07-27T10:18:00.007-04:00

Salaam Alaikum sisters and greetings to everyone else out there reading my little blurbs..... there has been much talk about sisterhood lately or should I say, the lack thereof. It seems many sisters have some serious issues with each other- and most don't even have a reason.... been there. As I've said before, women can be their own worst enemy.... most can't seem to get pass the "cattiness", back-biting, scandalous slander and just making ugly, sour faces at a sister for whatever reason you don't like.... and most don't even know WHY they don't like the other sister: does she dress nicer? Is she prettier? Is she smarter? Is she articulate? Is she married to a handsome brother? Does she have beautiful children? Does she wear slamming shoes? Some may read this and chuckle but these things some sisters have issues with for some stupid reason.... where is sisterhood these days???

I'm not telling you something that I haven't experienced myself especially in the beginning when I "reverted". Then I had a very good job that paid me very nicely, had a beautiful huge apartment in an upscale neighborhood and drove a very nice 4X4, MashaAllah. I later heard after a few gatherings in my home when I wanted to get to know the sisters better, that I was "flaunting" my wealth, thought I was better than others (?????) and was a know-it-all (because at the time I was working on my BS in registered nursing)... where did ALL that come from you ask? To tell you the truth, I don't know! The only thing I could conclude that it was based off of pure envy and jealousy... but why? I never treated anybody "less than" but just the opposite- I tried to make everyone feel very comfortable in my home. I even heard that I went out of my way to impress people with food!!! But I fed the sisters what I had in my freezer..... nothing special. Some said I couldn't possibly eat these things myself on a regular so I was looking to "impress"..... geesh. Lobster tails, shrimp and pasta was my favorite food (still is) but life was different then: great paying job, no kids, single and had access to buy those things regularly. But the long story short, you see how I was being bashed for no reason? Where's the love??? I was a new Muslim, new in this Islamic community and instead of embracing me for the love of Allah and as their new sister, some had their own personal issues with me. Needless to say, the gatherings slowed down to a halt and I immediately got rid of the soon-to-be found-out troublemakers.... I don't deal with garbage and if you have issues with me for SURE you're not welcomed in my home!

There is a sister on Facebook, who, MashaAllah, really tries to correct sisters whom she see might be going down the wrong path with sound, loving advice... but yet in return, she's being talked about and "deleted"..... and more than a few sisters have stated this has happened to them. If someone was posting pure rubbish, you get a million people who click the "like" button but post something about correcting people on their behavior and/or about what we should be doing as Muslims, people have a problem with that. Shouldn't you THANK your sister for pointing out the error and/or bad practice? What's wrong with us as women? As Muslimahs???

I think we ALL need to rethink our behavior as women..... but as Muslimahs FIRST because just being an ordinary woman, to me, means one thing: the back-biting, envy, jealousy, slander and nasty behavior might be acceptable to most BUT as a Muslim, these things are NOT acceptable.... and forbidden!

Love for your sister what you would love for yourself.... if your sister see you straying from the right path and pulls you up on it, don't go on the offensive and start talking smack.... thank her for caring enough to want to tell you. Some people won't even bother to correct you but laugh at you behind your back and spread gossip about your short-comings.... believe it.... it happens out there amongst us Muslimahs more than some people realize. Your sister want you to be pleasing to the Al-Mighty, Most-Merciful, Oft-Forgiving..... if she didn't care about you and your Hereafter, she would keep her 2 cents to herself!!!

I think we need to learn to love one another truthfully and stop being so petty.... and I include myself as well as I use to have the tendency to cut people off at their first offense..... my old three-strike rule: it's not right because I'm a Muslim now and this isn't proper. My husband corrected me on this issue when we first married... he told me Muslims don't cut off their relation with their brothers/sisters because they might have done something to hurt you... and he was right. Honestly, I don't do it nowhere near like how I used to (maybe 3-4 times since reverting) but when someone REALLY violates, I mentally wipe their name off the list.... like you never existed.... working on that....... I'm human.

Let's all ask Allah (SWT) this upcoming Ramadan to forgive us for our sins and let's make an effort to show REAL love for one another.... and not just for the month of Ramadan!

My henna addiction... and other stuff

2010-07-16T06:44:00.006-04:00

Jumaa Mubarak everyone!

Just trying to keep my promise of stopping by to post a little something to let you know I'm still here- I think Fridays will be my posting day... a little more free time.

I'm here trying to decide on what's for lunch... what's for dinner.... and I want to become a little more active here since me and the hubby were discussing "the future" last night. It looks like for sure now we intend to make this place our home. So, I'm thinking about what I can do so I can feel like my old self again. Since I can't attend masjid here, there aren't any projects/gatherings or committees to join..... so what is a sister to do? Groups here come and go: people attend in droves then disappear for lack of interest, other commitments, family issues, moving back to their countries and the list goes on. I was trying to establish an Islamic clothing store here but the owner of the shop turned out to be a real jerk so I let the spot go... I'm not trying to create more of a headache for myself! They ARE a unique breed..... lol

So the idea is to maybe sell some stuff online and from another location here if I find a decent spot- hijabs, abayas, intimate apparel, a few thobes for men and boys and those prayer garments for girls which I see some people actually wear outside around here.... I invested in some quality stuff not garbage and I contacted one of my best girlfriend's who lives in Mecca and shipped some very nice (and different) clothing here... I have the need to do something so I think I'll see how this little venture goes....

Anyway, I gotta ask again: if any of you sisters here in Cairo are reading this, does anyone know of a GOOD henna artist??? I'm like really craving a nice henna job with REAL henna NOT black dye!!!!! If ya do, holla back at a sista.... all I can do around here is "ohhh" and "ahhh" over Ash Kumar designs.... his stuff you can get replicated in any decent henna salon home but here.... it's just a dream...... :)

Until next time.... take care, be good, stay positive and try to remember to make dua for your sisters!!!

Just popping by........

2010-06-28T13:58:00.003-04:00

Just thought I'd give everyone a quick shout-out since I had 2 seconds to check to see if there were any new comments I needed to post... there was a few so I know someone is still reading! LOL

Still keeping up with the lives of most of the people I've come to know here on Blogger- everybody posting their lives on Facebook.... me included! But just thought I would ask: has anyone missed me????? :)

All things here in Cairo is fine.... spending time with the babies.... kinda wishing I was in NYC for the summer but ya can't have everything!!! But there's nothing like summertime in the BEST city in the world.... and I miss my friends and family!

Working on a few personal projects here so when/if something materializes, I'll let everyone know.

The clan is back from their evening walk... gotta run..... remember to keep Allah (SWT) in your lives and love those who don't love you!!!

Yeah... I know.... went missing again!

2009-11-11T05:18:00.005-05:00

Salaam Alaikum everyone!

Yea.... I know.... it's been a LONG while but I've been incredibly busy with daily life and all my babies. And I've also found it much easier to jot a quick blurb on Facebook... with life being the way it is, I only have a quick sec to post something and keep moving!

But I must tell you, I've been pretty much up to date with info on the daily lives of some of the sisters here on Blogger since they post daily on Facebook as well: some have added new additions to their families, others have had their first arrival (MashaAllah!) while others are dealing with family issues and some are still battling their demons, psychologically speaking.

Egypt has improved immensely since my last post- I have basically surrounded myself with expats and I have 2 really good Egyptian friends so my inner circle is tight and I'm in a good place right now, Alhumdulillah. After all that initial drama, I finally have some relief, some peace of mind about my state of "being".... so overall, I feel like my old self again!

My Papito is 3 months old now- yes. Three months have flown by and the Naughty Princess and Big Papi started school the beginning of October but since this past Sunday, school has been shut down until December 1st (alledgely) since a few boys in the primary area have been diagnosed with swine flu... we're supposed to have a meeting next week at the school to discuss how we're to handle their work load while they're out.... so I guess we'll receive a complete lesson plan to follow until school resumes. Gotta keep them busy.... especially since both of them are doing exceptionally well, MashaAllah! :)

Planning a trip home, InshaAllah, while they're out- hopefully, I'll be successful in finding some decent fares- and I plan to use my frequent flyer points to purchase at least one ticket .... I gotta buy more than a few! Thank goodness, I only have taxes to pay on Little Papi and Papito!

My family and friends are eagerly awaiting the actual arrival news so I need to get crackin' with my ticket search.... and this is the start of the busy holiday season so tickets won't be cheap- but just landing in New York and being able to smell my city is worth EVERY SINGLE PENNY! Must haves when I get home: Junior's cheesecake from Brooklyn, a bacon & egg sandwich from Al-Noor halal deli on 4th Avenue in Brooklyn, a FEW containers of Haagen-Dazs (well, gotta make up for ALL those months I wanted and couldn't get it!), a Nathan's hot dog with some fries and a REAL Pepsi down in Coney Island, have some delectable orange beef with fried rice and yummy spring rolls from my favorite Chinese restaurant and consume enough pizza at my favorite spot, Gino's, to last me for a year...... LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL LOL.... but I'm not kidding! And a visit to my nail salon for a SERIOUS manicure/pedicure and an elaborate hands, legs and feet henna job at my favorite Indian henna palace! NO ONE does it like this sista........ unless your name is Ashkumar (professional world reknown artist)!

Okay.... gotta run as it's lunch time for the rugrats.... and I'm waiting for the Olympic man to come service my washer/dryer for the 2nd day in a row: he checked it yesterday, it started to work with no problem.... as soon as he left, it had an error message! So much for expensive, state of the art machinery.... oy!

Everyone be good and safe.... take care of yourselves and remember to love each other... even if someone doesn't love you back!

Forever grateful.......

2009-08-16T09:29:00.004-04:00

Salaam Alaikum, my sisters!

Just wanted to give everyone a "heads up" that baby Papito came along on Wednesday, August 5th..... alhumdulillah, all went VERY smoothly- like 1 push smooth..... I could never complain about my deliveries!!!

With all my running around, not eating or taking care of myself as good as I would've if I was home in New York, Papito was my smallest one yet! But I can't complain as he is healthy and as cute as a button, MASHA ALLAH!!!! He's resembes Big Papi but time will tell if his face changes into something totally different.... all of my kids look different from each other but you could tell that they're related.....

And the hubby made it here JUST in time- he arrived Monday evening and by Wednesday afternoon, I was heading to the hospital! I kept telling Papito to hang in there and wait for his Baba and like a good boy, he listened! I was ready to come home the same day but the doctor had already left the hospital and when the staff called him, he said just stay- as usual, I felt like I didn't even give birth! Ready to go home to my own place and relax with the clan around me... but he and I had the chance to bond overnight as we spent the night smelling each other and him sleeping on my chest- this is my process with all of them and it does create a tighter, closer feeling bond between you..... and when they smell you and kinda sigh, you know they recognize you!

Well, always when you proclaim that you would never do something, something usually happens to make you eat your words- I said repeatedly while pregnant, that this one would more than likely be the last but now that he's here, talk about crazy but I think I wouldn't mind another!!! ;p

The troops are loving him like crazy.... my family thought that Little Papi might "flip out" since he's attached to me like glue (literally sometimes) but he's the main one kissing him and rubbing his head! Alhumdulillah, I'm glad I don't have to worry about the hitting, biting and scratching that usually happens when the youngest meets the newborn.... oy! And Little Papi just turned 1 a few days ago..... Alhumdulillah, my life has been blessed by yet another addition to the clan- Allah (SWT) is merciful and I am forever thankful for ALL that He has given me in this life..... please make dua for us!!!

Okay, break time over.... back to Momma duties.... time to make din din! ;)

the Barefoot Empress Beauty Emporium is open for a limited time...

2009-07-22T12:08:00.004-04:00

Ladies in the Cairo area!!!

I have some items in my home I need to clear out if I can... Victoria Secret bras and other style bras, panties, organic scented bath salt and a few home-made brown sugar scrubs I made in New York before I left... the lovely folks in customs here turned them all upside down so the labels were ruined with the oil from the container.

I also have superb hair colors and relaxers for those looking to spruce up their look!!! :)

I brought these things from New York and looking to get rid of least some of what I have left- customs help themselves to most of it....

If anyone is interested, let me know.....

Did ya miss me???

2009-07-21T05:03:00.006-04:00

Salaam 'Alaikum sisters!!!

Yeah.... I know it's been awhile but believe it or not, I JUST finished up my last bit of settling in and down business here on last Sunday. It's been a long haul but now, I can finally stay home in my apartment and relax and wait for the hubby to arrive (which is in about 2 weeks) and count down the final days til my bundle make his or her appearance!!! :)

I wanted to let everyone know all is well, children are good, Alhumdulillah.... apartment is FINALLY finished, have everything I need for the new arrival, InshaAllah.... met more cool Muslimahs which is always a blessing, the hubby is due to arrive soon (Wooo Hooo), still trying to adjust to some of the local yocals but my new but old approach to this tiresome, daily problem: "let it roll of my back, let's not care too much about it" attitude will get me through!!! (InshaAllah)

Okay, I don't know if I'll have the opportunity to log in again anytime soon.... Queen, I miss ya- haven't had the chance to read your blog in awhile... hope you and your family are doing okay!!! And I miss communicating with everyone so much but my life has been consumed with getting it all together here so I can start to "live" again.....

Next time you might hear from me, I'll have arrival news to share!!! I love you all for the pleasure of Allah.... please make dua for me and my family!!! Smooches!!!

In need of an English and Math tutor.....

2009-06-12T07:16:00.009-04:00

Assalaam 'Alaikum sisters!

Quick post... do any of you sisters here in Cairo have a GREAT, reliable English/Math tutor? I would like to hire one ASAP for my kids who will be 3 and 5. I believe in being proactive and I'm not in the place to devote much time to them right now (meaning being totally consistant with everything) with all I have going on in this house! They'll both start school in the fall and I like to be ahead of the game.... especially since the educational system here in this country is lacking greatly. I've heard many, many wonderful things about the school they'll attend but I need to know they'll at least to "up to snuff" with their classmates. I brought alot of workbooks with me from New York but I don't want to start to stop... because of stuff coming up and the likes, ya know what I mean? And with my Little Papi who requires a great deal of time, I know a tutor would do them better justice than me at this point! And I feel with someone else in the house, they'll pay closer attention than with me.

I'm looking for someone as soon as 2 weeks to start- I'm finishing up my house and I need to go away for a breather before the hubby arrives... so we're looking for someone twice to three times a week indefinitely... I will ask some of the many sisters here but I wanted to get the word out there.... let me know!

This evening I met a sweet sister, MashaAllah.....

2009-06-07T16:34:00.005-04:00

I had the pleasure of finally meeting my sweet sister, Molly from over at " The Sandbox Confessions of a Multicultural Muslimah" ( to check out her blog, click here). She such a sweet, warm Muslimah.... we chatted, ordered dinner (whose cooking in this heat???) and had a great time!

It's a blessing to be able to see a sister and warm up to one other like you known each other for years... you can't get that with alot of people but you can experience it with a down-to-earth person which I found her to be! We went from sitting on the couch to lounging in the bedrooms... how's that for just meeting someone? When it's real, ya know it! (smooches)

I'm grateful to have met her and hope we link up often.... I love you, my sista!

Thinking about my daughter's wedding......?????

2009-06-03T07:58:00.010-04:00

I dunno what's with me lately but as I watch my little Hijabi Princess run around, screaming and making all sorts of weird noises with Big Papi, my mind starts to drift off thinking about when it'll be her turn to get married, InshaAllah. I start to think about the many things involved: wedding location, the massive families to coordinate that are scattered all over the world, bridal clothing, cake, amount of gold jewerly bought for her and the list goes on. Now, I'm not psycho since my Mami is only 4 going on 5 but since she's my only girl who will be the eldest with three siblings, I wonder how her Baba and I will handle it all when the day comes?

I dream about the type of wedding I would LIKE which will not necessarily be of her taste... to which I'll probably get upset but she's kinda like me when it comes to stuff- I dunno if it'll last but if so, we might be okay with planning! ;) Her Baba will have his own set of ideas for sure... I think it'll be interesting!

I watch her run around, care free and laughing while I sit and think about her education and future... what will she do? What will she like? How might she change in the years to come? I don't know if other Mothers dream of their daughter's wedding but I have been thinking about it alot and I don't know why! She's just a baby and she will not be getting married any time soon but I guess maybe because I know she's my only girl? And I told her Baba start saving that money NOW for the event... and you know Pakistani families usually don't do small weddings and since she's definitely "the Princess", it won't be something taken lightly!

I've thought of fancy cakes.... you know, the kind that don't even LOOK like cakes (like the one above that look like pillows... definitely, my style)? The amount of family and friends from all the world- my family is huge and my hubby's family is massive so it would be a spectacle to see (hence the reason to start saving NOW... lol). Her wedding will more than likely be nothing like mine: very small, right after Friday kuttbah with an average sized walimah the next day...

Anyhoo, just thinking aloud... we have many, many, many years ahead of us to think about the event, InshaAllah- I guess I'm just being a Mommy right now... watching my little Hijabi Princess grow up before my eyes..... sigh.

Now, all we need is the right boy: practising, religious and from a good family...hmmm......

Sisters are makin it happen... would you like to join us?

2009-06-02T03:36:00.006-04:00

Assalaam Alaikum, my beautiful sisters!

Just a moment to give all the sisters here in Cairo the info on that meeting I mentioned in my last post... it's all about sisterly support for us expats, remembering Allah (SWT) and coming together to learn from one another with classes, workshops and the sorts... children included!

The next meeting will be this Thursday, June 4th at the Global Net Cafe located at 25 Hassan Haamid St. in Hayatul Ashr (sic) from 10AM-1PM. Hassan Haamid St, is located 2 streets BEHIND Eltaweed & Nour store- it's on the 1st floor in a pink and blue building... hope that's enough info!!!

For sisters living inside Rehab, there is a bus that can take you to the meeting but you must notify the sister, Umm Layla if you need a spot- first come, first serve.... I actually didn't get her permission to post her cell so please send me a line in comments and I can pass along the message- please include your mobile number for contact. Fee for the bus I believe is 10 LE to cover the cost and the price of admission to the meeting is 5 LE which is to cover the cost of using the facility.

They do send out info reguarly via email so those who are interested in receiving the info already shared, send me your email addresses and I can forward it to you- when you attend the meeting, the sisters will take all your contact info for future updates and contact.

They have a buddy system here within Rehab- you are assigned a buddy which is someone who lives close to you and you exchange personal info between yourselves just in case the sister needs to care for you or your children if you fall ill or need other assistance and vice versa... it's a great concept and it's already very much in effect! I wasn't feeling well and my buddy visited and met me for the 1st time over a week ago- just to say hello, introduce herself and offer her assistance! And we linked up again last night since I suffered from a mishap here in my flat, she made dinner for me and brought it by! What more can you ask for? The sisters here REALLY look out for each other and it feels great to be associated with them!

For those sisters living in Nasr City, Umm Layla mentioned the buddy system can be created for you as well- this is definitely a wonderful thing, MashaAllah!!!

Okay.... duty calls with the kids... hope to see all of you there.... I love you all, for the pleasure of Allah!

There's NO place like home....

2009-05-23T12:00:00.015-04:00

Well, I have about 3 minutes to sit at the moment and I've been thinking about my beloved home for the last few days... and I started to look at pics and the mind started to drift away- thinking about normalcy, family life, friends, GOOD food, cleanliness, wide open spaces, fresh air, the beautiful ocean, the vast cultures all co-existing in that huge melting pot called New York!

Eventually, most of us can learn to adapt to our surroundings at some point and time, while others may NEVER be able to adapt at all- this is LIFE and we're all built differently. What I can take and make a joke out of it, some may feel bitter resentment and hate things even more- and no one behavior is right or wrong- how we cope is part of who we are..... I must tell you the obvious: visiting is one thing but when you're forced to live the day-to-day in this forsaken place called Egypt, it's not easy. The biggest problem I feel is how people put their "culture" before religion- to most of them, this is what it's all about. We're ALL to be the same, regardless of where we come from... and this is what we as Muslims are taught and THOUGHT... be here, this is not necessarily the case- you are the OUTSIDER and most will NOT let you forget it. Forget about being brothers and sisters in the most glorious religion on this earth: you're from where YOU are and we're EGYPTIAN- so stupid. And if I could speak a lick of the local slang dialect, I would ask: what exactly IS IT to be EGYPTIAN??? Not to rant, but most feel for some really odd reason that they're better than us... and how so do I ask? Is it the ancient culture that have absolutely nothing to do with you nowdays... or is it the country that you so disgustingly neglect in almost every way imaginable??? I must tell you, I have had alot of contact with some very nice Egyptian people here and even they agree: their people have some serious issues.... and alot of them don't even like us, Muslim or not- but if you stop and think, if people like us from ALL over this world didn't come here for one reason or another whether it be to live indefinitely, study for a period of time, vacation, buy property,etc. what ELSE EXACTLY WOULD BE GOING ON HERE??? I will tell you... nothing.

In my lifetime, I have mixed and mingled in many different circles: rich, poor, middle class, no class, super highly educated, no education whatsoever, average education, morons and uber-intelligent so I know HOW to hang with the good, the bad and the indifferent. I have tried to immerse myself somewhat with understanding the mentality of the locals to which some things I have figured WHY they do what they do but still again, most stuff you just can't understand WHY... and even their own have said so- to me! But I think the biggest problem is all the boisterous pride, the blatant ignorance and the moronic arrogance and the REAL belly buster: the huge aire of SUPERIORITY that they try to "flaunt" in your face (this one I really laugh at) but I ask you, WHY? Maybe some Egyptian sisters care to comment so maybe people like myself living here can get a better handle on what we're dealing with or HOW to deal with the natives. I truly want to understand since I do plan to stay, InshaAllah, but to co-exist like this IS NOT condusive. I can honestly say, I wouldn't advise anyone to come here UNLESS you've been here and know what you might be facing in the long run. I want to make it bearable not perfect- to be able to look at the natives and feel like I belong here and they ARE my brothers and sisters... not the things that run through my mind when I'm faced with the uncalled-for idiotic behavior (Astagfiruallah)- you're not hurting me but you're making yourself and your people look bad... think about it. Because I know, at the end of the day, I CAN pack my bags and hop a flight back to my native land- no questions asked... but is this the solution? WHY shouldn't I be able to stay and feel like one of them? A person, a sister, a Muslim and still yet know I am a foreigner? I've heard MANY things over the years about what people think about the people here and I said to myself, they shouldn't say things like that: they ARE people just like us- but until you have to walk a mile in someone else's shoes, don't judge- living here for 3 months have put things into perspective as to WHY they've said what they have- and I can't fault them. But I don't want negative feelings and total resentment be my memory of living in this country- I want to walk away whenever I leave, with a positive experience and be able to say, I lived amongst my brothers and sisters and it was good! I don't want to report that the experiences were all bad: they're HUGE liars, thieves, arrogant, ignorant and such- even writing that doesn't look NOR feel good- but this has been most of the interactions here so far- I can totally relate to Umm Travis's gripe. For those who might think she complains- life here everyday is like this... imagine this being your daily fight... would YOU feel good or even remotely "appreciate" the people? I think not. I want to understand the mode of thinking- someone "enlighten" me, please!!!

So, even though this place will be my home for some time to come, InshaAllah, I can't help but miss my beloved New York... I might be biased but it's one of the most beautiful places in the world! NO PLACE can EVER compare to it whether it be the wide open spaces, huge homes, friendly neighbors, landscaped lawns and uber-clean parks in Long Island or the hussle and bussle in one of the greatest cities that NEVER sleeps- New York has it all!

Maybe, if I close my eyes and click my heels three times, I might find myself in my old neighborhood: there's no place like home... there's no place like home... there's no place like home....

Just here... for the moment.....

2009-05-09T03:43:00.017-04:00

I've received sooooo many emails from people telling me to "come back!" and "I miss your posts!" and "I miss you!!!".... and I thank you all from the depths of my heart for not forgetting me! Well, my story is the same- but thank Allah, I've finally gotten the new flat to where everything I have is in it's right place- still waiting for my bloody boxes from Alex, though... but that is a whole other diaster. The good folks here decided in customs that I shipped too many things and that ALL of it couldn't be for me and my kids- like I brought my entire life here to sell! The nerve! The guts! The gall! And they charged me a HUGE HUGE fine as a penalty for sending my things here to set up my life- soooo very nice of them- a few THOUSAND US dollars.... thank you, Egypt. pfft..........

And I'm extremely exhausted still from the initial move, the move again and all the unpacking... and with my little hijabi Princess, Big Papi and Little Papi in tow, things haven't really slowed down much. And for those who don't know (only those who were closest to me have been privvy to the details) I'm expecting.... again! So, there's the other reason for all my tiredness- came here with my troops, alone and pregnant and trying to make it all work- even my ob/gyn here has told me he's in complete awe of me! Foreign land, no help, no hubby here at the moment, came alone with small children, moved, moved again... and all while very much pregnant and not feeling well. Well, me, I believe you do what you gotta do- at any cost so, there it is in a nutshell. If you see me, I look about 2-3 months OVERDUE but I'm not due until sometime this summer.... it's funny how much bigger the belly gets with each baby! Just to give you an idea: when I was pregnant with my first, the Hijabi Princess, everyone thought I was having twins and I even heard triplets... and you know how the belly expands with each one- so imagine what I look like now??? :)

The looks before when I wasn't so big was like "Maybe she's still carrying that baby belly from that baby on her hip" but now people just look at me like "???" and some are like "MashaAllah...." yes, I AM carrying a baby on my hip and VERY much pregnant- again.... HA!

I will try to post more now that things have calmed down some- take my new camera out the box finally so I can take some pics of some sites soon... I promise to post them- don't expect anything fancy... just random shots of stuff and life around Cairo.

Please make dua for me and all my babies... we're here and making it by Allah's (SWT) mercy- and I feel we just might be able to make it work here. I've found some good people, Alhumdulillah, to be in my camp so I think with my new network, I just might elect to stick around for awhile... not to give up just because of the sometime crazy culture that exists here and the extremely rude, arrogant people- and let's not forget the lot that feel that they have bigger, smarter brains than the rest of us but are very HIGHLY uneducated- makes me chuckle. Gotta take the bad with the good- I've also met some fabulous Egyptian sisters, MashaAllah- the kind I wanna be around: good, practising sisters who have it together: Islam over culture! I've decided to do my usual- laugh at the rest mentioned above and keep moving... stupid is as stupid does.... and my girlfriend from England who is married to a nice Egyptian, has explained some of the customs here to me- she also used to think most stuff was crazy but when you do dig a little deeper, you realize WHY they do some of the things they do and it makes sense when you stand back... but other stuff, you're still like ??????????????????????????????????????????????????

Anyhoo, time for tea and put Little Papi down for his morning nap- maybe we'll get a chance to go out and enjoy the weather today! I love you all, for the pleasure of Allah!

UAE lifestyle- Part II

2009-04-11T06:26:00.004-04:00

Well, since I posted the link to the original, disturbing story concerning the lives of foreign workers and other expats over in the UAE, our brother over at One Root has posted some more information in regards to this- and have included some video from the KSA.

I must say, my concern with the original story was the lives of the workers... not those who foolishly go over there and run up debt without common sense and are not "informed" of the laws of that country so let's be clear on that. Before anybody embarks on the quest to relocate anywhere, they should familiarize themselves with the laws of that country or at least be with people who can tell you the "dos" and "donts" of the land...

To read his new post, click here and to read his original post, click here.

Somebody! Please help!!!

2009-04-11T03:06:00.005-04:00

I have come to realize within the past few weeks that I have an addiction.... yes, addicted to Haagen Dazs. I've tried to sub with the mall Carvel ice cream (which isn't tasty... more like some sort of ice milk) and nothing will satisfy my cravings for my favorite brand. I've checked all the markets already- including the biggest one around, Carrefour- there the ice cream selections are just plain weird and NOT very appealing... at all.

Can someone PLEASE tell me where to find my love in Cairo??? If I can't get to an actual store where the selections and toppings can NOT be compared, I'll settle most definitely for frozen...

It's gotten so bad that even when I look at my kids Hershey's chocolate sauce in the fridge, I start itching for ice cream... sick, right? All the "little" things we take for granted.... sigh. I need help..... please...... somebody! ;)

Mesmerized by the fab UAE lifestyle, aren't you???

2009-04-09T18:04:00.005-04:00

Well, as we all know by now, I don't have much time to post lately.... and I really don't have much going on to post anything interesting but I did have the chance earlier today to sit down and read a few.... our brother over at One Root posted a mind-numbing story about the "real" lives over the in UAE. I know many people are sooooo fascinated by the sick wealth, glitz and glamour that most people especially alot of our Muslim brothers and sisters, can only talk about moving there... as if THAT place is the end-all, be-all.

If you read his post and STILL feel like you wanna pack your bags and go live amongst the masses in that desert oasis, then I personally feel you need some serious pyscho therapy... may Allah (SWT) bring relief to those suffering at the hands of their oppressors, InshaAllah (Ameen)

To read the stomach-churning post, click here

Random things....

2009-03-24T16:41:00.018-04:00

Greetings all!

Just wanted to take a minute to let everyone know I haven't disappeared but just busy getting things sorted out here. I was feeling bettter but now coming down with something else... ugh. I HAVE to get some probiotics from home ASAP!

Moved into my apartment but not quite sorted yet- I found out today my vast shipment from New York has finally arrived in Alexandria so I'm assuming by this weekend I should be able to arrange to have the stuff brought down to Rehab... can't wait! Basically, my entire life is in those 30+ boxes!

Anyhoo, I have a lovely big flat here, MashaAllah, but I WILL be moving... sounds crazy? Well, after being here for about 3 1/2 weeks now, I can't deal with my other tenants I found out I had sharing my kitchen.... yup, roaches. I CAN NOT do the roach thing. I'm totally crazy when it comes to this... I start to imagine that the damn things have crawled all over everything, leaving masses of germs for us to consume in some sort of way. So how have I been dealing with my psychosis??? Washing everything in the bleach-laden egyptian water (this stuff is beyond horrible- just think putting bleach water mixed with acid in your mouth... that what I felt like the first time I came here and made wudu) and then use my Nestle delivered bottled water to sterilize everything... I sit and boil, boil, boil. So you can imagine it's costing me a pretty penny to keep using my drinking water but I have no choice- I can't consciously give my kids their cups or fix food in a plate where one MIGHT have been. Now, don't get me wrong- the place isn't crawling with them at all- one here and there on occassion.... but I KNOW they're there. We just can't co-exist. And they don't venture out of the kitchen either... so the rest of the place is totally okay but I won't wait around to see if they opt to broaden their living quarters. When I told the hubby, he laughed... he KNOWS me when it comes to this issue: had a wonderful, fabulous apartment we moved into after we first married- everything a girl could ask for but about after a week or so, I saw my first roach there. I can't kill them- don't want carcass on my slippers or anything else for that matter so I usually just cringe (sound like a baby, I know). Then I saw another, then another, then another- so I started to cry- my hubby thought that was the funniest thing! A big womanl like you, crying over seeing roaches... needless to say, he didn't think it was hilarious when I demanded we move.... ;)

So, next month I'll have another flat to fix up- this one I rented is furnished- or semi furnished really... so if you know anything about Egypt, you have to buy EVERYTHING: light fixtures, cabinets for your kitchen walls, closets, sometime a bath tub (some only come with very small stand up showers)- basically, the places only come with bathroom and kitchen sinks and toilets! But it'll be nice to fix it up the way I like and make things comfy for the babies....

Haven't seen any sights as of yet- and since I'll be moving, everything for pleasure will be on hold until that project is complete. An associate of mine have an apartment down by the Red Sea so I might take the kiddies over with some friends one weekend when it's a little warmer to play in the sand... they'll love that.

Oh yes, if any of you sisters have a RELIABLE house cleaner looking for extra work, please let me know- the one I had was a good cleaner but lazy so her last day was yesterday... me, I don't have the patience right now to argue with people- they want money but don't wanna work... go figure. And no, I wasn't slaving her- this seems to be the Egyptian way- my friends DID warn me- first they all start out wonderful, on time and clean like you wouldn't believe. Then they start to show up late (like I'm talking hours late), miss days (without calling mind you)(just happpened to me over the weekend) and then come to clean and clean whatever they want, not what you tell them and expect to be paid- mind boggling to me. One of my girlfriends told me most Egyptians just don't value your time so expect to be waiting, waiting and waiting- if you want to have something done you can't accomplish yourself- this is the way it is. Looking to make my life as easy as possible right now so I need reliable people in my camp since I'm flying solo at the moment..... can't wait for the hubby to get here!

I promise, InshaAllah, more interesting updates with pics when the craziness of adjusting has slowed down- I miss my random entries but just no time to share at the moment. It's ALOT to be in a new land, don't speak the language (at all), with 3 very small children by yourself and have to set up your life again... my poor hubby worries everyday and he's totally stressed since he's not here yet but I tell him I can manage which I'm trying like hell to... most days are good but some days you're like, "Just where can I purchase an automatic weapon complete with silencer???"....

Anyhoo, extremely tired- have another health issue I'm dealing with right now but we'll save that for a later time... gotta go get some sleep while the troops are knocked out! :)

P.S. Just wanted to thank Umm Travis for stopping by the other day and spending the morning and early afternoon with me and the bambinos... it was nice to actually sit down and chat- we had the chance to really talk about ourselves- and even discuss how we both came to embrace Islam, Alhumdulillah. She's a beautiful sister, MashaAllah... I'm glad I've had the opportunity to have met her!

Finally... greetings from Al Rehab, New Cairo!

2009-03-15T01:46:00.011-04:00

Well.... we finally made it, Alhumdulillah! Been in Rehab since the 27th of February, waiting for an internet connection (to which I was told was already in my flat) so I was literally cut off from the REAL world until yesterday when I met the fab Umm Travis! She called me since my other sister, Umm Ismail, has been in constant contact with me and knew I wasn't feeling so great since arriving (another wonderful perk about living here- constantly sick) so she reached out to my sister- and she called!

We met at one of the most popular malls here and it was great... I can honestly say, I felt like I knew her forever! I developed an instant love and bond with her in my heart- InshaAllah, I hope it grows ever so stronger! (hugs)

So, getting back to this internet thingy, you know, I wouldn't have been soooo pissed if people would just actually be forthcoming with info. Don't tell me the guy is coming tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow never comes. If you tell me, "Hey, Anisa, can't have internet for 3 weeks", I can accept that but to keep blantantly lying to me is NOT cool. Quickest way to my bad side? Do just that... things will go sour in NO TIME...

So no more waiting for a stupid DSL connection as my fab sister told me about the store where I already hooked up my mobile service thru, that they offered a wireless modem (and I didn't know anything about this- not very computer savvy at all) so when we went in to check it out, I was sold! At bit more than I was looking to spend for the internet but at this point, I would pay almost any amount to be in touch with my friends and family! They all are going bonkers in New York (and the rest of America for that matter) wondering what the heck is going with me and my kids over here- most didn't want me to leave anyway so you KNOW the imagination is running wild with all sorts of weird stuff. People in their right mind wouldn't pack up their very small children and willingly fly them to a 3rd world country to live... lol

So... we are here.... dealing with the arrogance that is the way of the locals, and feeling like I've been placed in a time warp- dragged back about 100 years but I knew about all of this before I came so I can't complain by acting like I didn't know- just takes some getting used to. Having almost everything in life at your finger tips to going back to a "one horse town" like Umm Travis said in her post (more like donkey cart town)(lol) is alot to deal with at once- and I don't care HOW modern they seem, it's just NOT when u look closer... oh well.

Not feeling great today at all, went to bed shivering from chills like my poor daughter the night before so I'm coming down with something. So I think we'll be in the house for the next few days until I can feel up to snuff and the children are okay- they still have some lingering congestion and stuff going on.

Umm Trav, sorry for not such a fab first meeting (which is TOTALLY not me) (LOL) with all the running around shopping but I PROMISE, InshaAllAh, to make it up to you! Even my daughter took an instant liking to her- when she realized when we were getting in the cab that Umm Travis was missing, she said "Mommy, where's Auntie? We left her inside the store!" (meaning the mall). Yes, you left an impression with her. And my Big Papi was trying to pull up her niqab to see her face in the store.... always him, my little sourpuss! lol

Oh yes, Umm Trav.... met yet another character from Blogger? I know I'm pretty much very animated but THAT much? LOL LOL LOL

To all the sisters here in Cairo, looking to link up so send me your mobiles and home phone numbers, InshaAllah, so we can get together in the near future. And to all those who have my New York number- just give me a little time to figure stuff out here as how to connect everything and set it all up- then, InshaAllah, we'll be chatting like I never left!

Signing off to lay down for a hot minute- feeling rather yucky. More post to come, InshaAllah, about our adventures and the sorts here in the land of the pyramids!

A DiStUrBiNg Post Every Mother Should Read

2009-02-18T01:40:00.005-05:00

I was catching up last night on my daily blog readings and I came across this post (click here) by our gracious sister, Habayeb, over at A Learning Muslimah.

Her post included this link that I feel ALL MOTHERS should click and read- carefully and slowly... this could affect ANY of our children and what some of us may learn, could mean the difference between harm or intervention.

As a current Mother of three, I know this has to be one of the most feared thing by many parents... I know it plays heavily on my brain, especially when your offspring is VERY young like mine. We could NEVER be too cautious- let's all be diligent in protecting our children from evil, InshaAllah (Ameen).

Mom of the Year Award!

2009-02-16T15:29:00.011-05:00

I just received what I deem to be, one of the coolest honors to be bestowed upon a woman... a Mom of the Year Award! My lovely sister Mona over at Mama Mona nominated ME as one of her choices- thanks sis!

Here are the rules of this tag:

1. Admit one thing you feel awful about (involving being a mom). Once you have written it down, you are no longer allowed to feel bad. Remember you are a good mom!

2. Remind yourself that you ARE a good mom, list 7 things you love about your kids, you love doing with your kids, or that your kids love about you.

3. Send this to 5 other moms of the year that deserve a reminder that they too are the best moms that they can be.

Remember to send them a note letting them know you have selected them, and also add a link to your post that directs people back to the person who nominated you!

My Number One peeve about myself....

1.) Well, my number 1 is basically the same as Mona's: I yell.... ALOT. So much so, sometimes I get irritated hearing myself. But let me give you an inside idea of my house: my kids are 4, 2 and 6 months and when the bigger two are playing, you can hear them throughout the house! Then they start to fight, bite each other, scream and when they're done abusing each other, one tries to outrun the other to come and tell me... and I'm usually somewhere in the vicinity of the bedroom where the 6 month old is sleeping... can you guess what happens next??? Exactly, couple their screaming with the high pitch, agitated baby and you've got total chaos- especially when you're trying to pack, wash dishes, vacuum and keep your sanity ALL at the same time. Geesh, never told anyone that one... felt good.

And to boot, everyone is on their BEST behavior when the hubby comes in.... sweet and smiling while playing NICELY. Then he says "WHY is Mommy always complaining you two are bad? My little darlings..."- yeah, right.

My 7 things I love about my little terrors (MashaAllah!):

1.) The simplest things make them happy- give them a new batch of crayons and watch their little faces light up!

2.) I love to watch them in the park- there's one park they love most of all- down by the water so they play on the rides and then we go watch people fish, watch the boats sail by and watch the birds fly around. They especially love the geese and the ducks when they're around!

3.) I love that they ALWAYS tell me they love me- especially my Big Papi. Not a day goes by when he doesn't say at least once, "I love you, Mommy!" My Princess says it too but not quite as often as he does- she's definitely her Baba's girl....

4.) I love that they are very social kids- they make friends very easily. Some kids have hang-ups and don't play with other kids especially when there's a difference in skin tone, race and/or ethnic background. Mine will run up to ANY kid and start blabbering and playing- and I like it. My kids are exposed to ALL kind of people- and it shows!

5.) I love that they never forget about each other- when they are out and some one gives one of them something, each will ALWAYS look for the same for their sibling... I didn't exactly teach them that but I always tell them what you have, you share with your brother/sister- what is yours belong to them also... always share. So when they get anything, they look to collect for the other one too! And now, they include my Little Papi too...

6.) MashaAllah, at this very young age, both are quite bright for their ages... I hope their love of books continue! My daughter and her "constellations" and my son tells everyone he wants to be an astronaut... and he look sooooo serious when he says it too- he's only 2. Who knows, too early to tell- my husband tells him, "No, you're going to be a hafiz!" And I always chime in, "Well, he can be a hafiz astronaut who gives dawah in space!".... HA! My daughter pretends to be a doctor on a regular and she says her name when she gets big will be "Dr. Ben"- it's from one of their cartoons... InshaAllah!

7.) I love that they watch out for each other- THAT one I taught them. I tell them always, "Never leave your brother/sister... always look out for each other, let no one hurt you!" Even though they're young, they get the picture. I remember when they were playing in the park and someone knocked into my daughter, and my Big Papi said, "Hey! watch out for my Nana! (that's my Princess's nick name) She my friend!!!" He calls her his friend- see, he totally understands at the tender age of 2.

Now... I nominate the following AWESOME women to receive this prestigious award:
Umm Ismail over at Umm Ismail's World

Umm Khadijah over at The Striving Muslimah

Queen over at The Life of a Bangladeshii Wife

Sis. Najea over at Hijabi Couture

Desert over at Desert Monsoon

Boring life???

2009-02-14T21:45:00.010-05:00

I have read lately and have listened to more than a few people complain about being bored... their lives are boring... what they do is boring... the people they know are boring... their everyday surroundings are boring... blah blah blah. I'm one for self-motivation so when I read that people lives need " a shake up" I think you have many options to turn to such as articles, books and lectures in order to feel and/or remain "on track"... with that being said, I came across this wonderful article for those who need to break out of the rut:

If you feel like you are living a boring life, that there is more to life, and are willing to do something about it, you have just made the first step to creating a great life. You see, most people want a great life but are not willing to do what is necessary to get it. So how do you create a great life once you know you want it?

First of all, if you feel that you are living a boring life it’s because you are not living to your life potential. I believe that you were born to live a great life full of excitement. Begin to do some brainstorming and figure out what things would make you feel like you are living a great life.

Once you have come up with these things, it’s time to start doing some of them. I know that many of the things you came up with might be a bit scary for you but you are just going to have to get past the fear if you want to live great. Fear is the number one reason why people don’t live the lives they are meant to live. Don’t become another casualty of fear.

After you have started to turn your life from boring to great, make a decision that you will never let your life become boring and mundane again. This means that as soon as you feel yourself slipping into a rut, you immediately begin to find ways to liven up that area of your life again.

Is there greatness on the inside of you but you don't know how to achieve it?

Sisterhood

2009-02-13T18:29:00.014-05:00

Just felt the urge to post about sisters... was chatting with one of the funniest and coolest, MashaAllah, Muslimahs I know, Umm Ismail!

A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.
- Isadora James

A sister smiles when one tells one's stories - for she knows where the decoration has been added.
- Chris Montaigne

A true sister is a friend who listens with her heart.
- Author Unknown

Having a sister is like having a best friend you can't get rid of. You know whatever you do, they'll still be there.
- Amy Li

Help one another, is part of the religion of sisterhood.
- Louisa May Alcott

Is solace anywhere more comforting than in the arms of a sister.
- Alice Walker

Sisterhood is powerful.
- Robin Morgan

Sisterly love is, of all sentiments, the most abstract. Nature does not grant it any functions.
- Ugo Betti

Sisters don't need words. They have perfected a language of snarls and smiles and frowns and winks - expressions of shocked surprise and incredulity and disbelief. Sniffs and snorts and gasps and sighs - that can undermine any tale you're telling.
- Pam Brown

Sisters function as safety nets in a chaotic world simply by being there for each other.
- Carol Saline

When sisters stand shoulder to shoulder, who stands a chance against us?
- Pam Brown

Some benefits of cinnamon & honey

2009-02-10T21:32:00.009-05:00

I had received some great health information from my beautiful sister, Umm Ismail, over at Blaque Queen, in regards to some of the wonderful benefits of cinnamon and honey....

It is found that a mixture of honey and cinnamon cures most diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients... Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada, on its issue dated 17 January 1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

HEART DISEASES:
Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also, those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily they are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged... honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and veins.

ARTHRITIS:
Arthritis patients may take daily, morning, and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured.. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon honey and half teaspoon cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated, practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

BLADDER INFECTIONS:
Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

TOOTHACHE:
Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be applied three times a day until the tooth stops aching.

CHOLESTEROL:
Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of cinnamon powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient were found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol. By the way, if you're taking cholesterol medicine, STOP! They all contain STATIN which weaken your muscles...including YOUR HEART and none has been shown to stop heart attacks or strokes!!!!

COLDS:
Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

UPSET STOMACH:
Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS:
According to the studies done in India and Japan , it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

IMMUNE SYSTEM:
Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacterial and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant Use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION:
Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA:
A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ingredient which kills the influenza germs and Saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY:

Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increases and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

PIMPLES:
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTION:
Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts, cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS:
Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER:
Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

FATIGUE:
Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

BAD BREATH:
People of South America, first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS:
Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restore hearing.

I'm sure some of us NEED to implement a few of these things in our lives for better health... I know I do and will, InshaAllah! Just some food for thought......

High Expectations

2009-02-07T11:53:00.016-05:00

Lately, I've basically been having the same conversation with people in regards to personalities and our expectations. When I was younger, I used to "dismiss" people who couldn't "rise to the occasion" or "make things happen" from their will to achieve or they "let go" of their dream or end goal because they suddenly felt weak or felt they "just couldn't do it" . I believed that, it was totally, another sign of weakness like laziness. Self-doubt and pity are our worse enemies! I totally STILL believe that...

Needless to say, those who know me, know I have a very strong personality- not one to succumb to situations but I search out alternative options (which I usually have already put in place) and look to meet those goals or tasks. I've always lived my life around Plan A, B and C. Of course, Plan "A" is the ultimate goal and the direct route to achieve it... Plan "B" is the same outcome but a different course taken to achieve the same end result... and Plan "C" is the option when all else fails- I don't know how to live my life without this scenario. Some may see it as sick or too rigid but you know what, all my life it has worked for me. I know I do possess an "Alpha" personality, and to understand WHICH type of Alpha I am (for those who know what I'm talking about) I need to tell you that I'm about 30% Alpha 5 and 70% Alpha 7- this is who I am. I've tried to deviate from this in the past but I couldn't... I can't... this is me.

I have learned over the course of my life NOT to dismiss people but try to help them achieve their goals with my, should I say, "steps to success". I tell people that for one, I'm not a crier- on rare occasion when the struggles of life REALLY get to me and it seems like the whole world is about to cave in, I break into tears. When this happens, I lay down and give myself the ultimate pep-talk, "You're not weak... crying is for others, not you", "you're better than this situation", "get over yourself", "rise above it OR lay down and succumb to your failure", "find a way to make it happen", "self pity is a sign of weakness", "WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO???". Usually at this point, I cease crying, wash my face, I sometimes pray and then I relax. I clear my head and tell myself, "What's the next course of action?". I then assess the situation at hand and revise my immediate goals and the put in place the new outline of Plan A, B and C.

Over the years, my husband and I have to come to crossroads where he has said on numerous occassions that he doesn't understand me or my mode of thinking... but with knowning how I am and my personality, I have come to realize that you can not explain your attempt or end result to him as he sees it as thinking too far ahead or sometimes too abstract... but I think most can agree that men tend to see with "tunnel vision" or like I sometimes like to say, "they can only see to the tip of their nose" while most women tend to look at the broader picture and keep the end goal in mind. There have been times when situations have taken days, weeks and even a few months before the end goal was achieved... and he would say things to me like I'm not working on getting something in order or making any effort to get things cleared up (not realizing that things have been working in the background) and then when it all comes together, the hubby would just look at me and I at him and say, "Exactly...."- enough said!

As our lives evolve, so do our plans and/or goals so we are ever modifying, changing or tweeking our outline in order to achieve our desired end results... it's to pray to Allah and seek his guidance... and USE the brain Allah (SWT) gave you- that's why we all have one (well, most of us anyways). ;)

We must learn to rise above the petty everyday sorrows and the misery it usually brings in order to get through this world... you have to learn to pick yourself up and dust off the issue(s) at hand and work towards making the situation favorable if not totally better. If you don't know who you are and what you want out of life, and don't have a general idea as to how to achieve your goal(s), you could easily be swallowed up by this mean, unforgiving, disgusting world and forever lost in the dark abyss of doubt and self pity. That's definitely NOT an option for me... is that an option for you???

What are some of your common practices to "making it happen"? Though my method of madness may seem extreme to some, your reply concerning your method might help someone who doesn't know how to achieve their end goal(s)...

Cherish

2009-02-03T13:50:00.008-05:00

Do you realize for every breath that we take we are fortunate to be in this world? Many times, I take for granted the good health that I have, the love I received from my loved ones. I say "Thank you for Life".

There are many ways we can make the most out of our lives and cherish the people around us. We can start with a heart of gratitude for where we are in this moment. Our needs are taken care of and we are surrounded by people we love and who love us. When we have a heart of gratitude, we can thank God for everything. We can thank God for our physical needs being taken care of, our mental mind and our stable emotions. We can make the most out of life by being joyful in the moment. When we are joyful, even the taste of ice-cream delights us and brings us to the edge of heaven. When we are joyful, we just feel like singing and dancing. We smile and laugh and all these positive emotions are reflected from our inner beings and these positive emotions can charge another to feel better. We just hug the first baby that comes along be it from strangers or friends because the wonder of the world is reflected in a baby or a small child. The smile on the baby or child's face says it all.

When we are thankful for who we are, we are in a better position to make the most out of life. Even a walk in the evening is something to be thankful for as we appreciate our surroundings and our physical and mental faculties to appreciate what we can see, do or be. The green grass and the blue sky is ours to see and feel good about it if we so choose to do so and that's what Life has given to us, to cherish the moment of where we are. When we have people who make us laugh, understand us and cherish us, we have been given the greatest gift of love by being here. In this moment, when we realized that by loving the people around us, we are cherishing them for who they are and are grateful for them being in our lives.

Life is beautiful and it is how we look at it. Appreciate the beauty of our lives and when we appreciate the gift of life, we cannot but be thankful for the people in our lives and for being here in this moment. We can make our world a better place by encouraging another person and be with them when they need us. Life is meant to be lived with passion and when we forget that is what we need to do, remind ourselves that we are here for a reason. We want to live when the flame is lighting and when it is done, we know we have burn brightly and the warmth of the light has touched someone else.

A few simple things we can do to start to make the most out of life and cherish the people around us:
1. Show love and care to people we love
2. Be joyful
3. Appreciate others by telling them that we appreciate them
4. Simply say "I love you" to people we love and let us not assume they know we love them
5. A pat on the back or just listening to someone also indicate that we care
6. A note of love and appreciation to people we love

There are so many ways we can cherish the people around us and most importantly is to start with one way and then we will have more ideas to do so and let us just do it. It is never too late to tell someone you care. Live life and let your joy shine through.

-Helen Tays

I am sooo undeserving of this honor...

2009-01-29T17:01:00.008-05:00

I was giving the award by my beautiful sister, Hijabee and I dunno if I exactly deserve such a thing- a newbie blogger like myself... but when I write, it comes straight from the heart. I can say she, being Hijabee, is an inspiration to me- she is well-spoken, appears to be even-keeled, insightful sister who writes with a passion that you can feel (anybody remember her short story?)... and I'm glad to have had the chance to know her. If anyone deserves this award, my sister, it's you! (hugs & kisses)

So... I must nominate 10 others out in our little blog world- the choices aren't easy as there are many great bloggers out there- some have been nominated already and some will appear as a repeat on my list:

Moma Mona: A very nice sister who lives in Egypt who reached out to me to inform me of what to expect there... and not to expect (and the loads of stuff to bring!). I love reading about her and her beautiful children, MashaAllah

Cool Guy Muslim blog: This brother has no nonsense posts... all about info on Islam and all quite insightful. You wanna learn something you might not have known? Check him out!

Desert Monsoon: I appreciate this sister's quirky style of writing- I get a good chuckle every time I read one of her passages. And we've chatted more than a few times... she's definitely a great sister to know!

Desert Veil: Her post are a good mixture of personal issues, world affairs and other random things... that's what I like about reading her blog, you can't guess what she'll write about next so it keeps things interesting

Hijabi Couture: This sister is TRULY one in a million! What a sweet, loving persona! We have chatted constantly back and forth thru email and I can tell you, she's a unique lady. Her sewing skills are definitely on point! She made a fabulous Eid outfit for me (which everyone loved!) and she just completed yet another nice order for me today... ladies, check out her things and give her a holla- you won't be disappointed! So what she's in Morocco!!! (its worth it) lol

My Baking Addiction: This blogger named Jamie has a beautiful site! The recipes are wonderful and she gives you the links to the actual site to make them yourself. For all those who enjoy baking, check her out

Inspired Muslimah: She's such a sweet sister... I don't know exactly what to say about her- I appreciate her honesty and she comes across as a truly genuine person. She's a new Muslimah- and she's got her head on right! Stay the course, my humble sister!

Seeking Serenity: Another sweet sister with her head on her shoulders right! Her blog is also a good mixture of personal issues, fashion and the sorts. Keep it up!

The Striving Muslimah: Umm Khadijah's blog is fabulous... another blog full of insightful, beneficial information for us sisters. A mixture of news, Islam, poems and personal posts. Definitely worth reading...

Umm Ismail: This no nonsense sister (lol) has 2 blogs but "Blaque Queen" is the latest... very informative (learned a few things I didn't know over there) and all about Islam- no fluff included. Issues covered range from dealing with husbands, to how to treat your children, Islamic books, Islamic stories, Islamic knowledge and beautiful poems. She's another sister I have had the pleasure of chatting with extensively- definitely a sister with a good heart, MashaAllah.

Even though I have listed my ten people, this list could NOT be complete without mentioning Umm Travis. I know she has been giving this honor twice today but her blog is full of passion... and even though, we both know we don't always agree on some issues, (*hugs*) at the end of the day, we have TOTAL understanding of each other- and that counts for everything! I love you, my sister, for the pleasure of Allah!

Remember to pass this honor onto 10 people of your own... would love to see how many other great blogs are out there we haven't had the pleasure of reading yet!

I've been tagged!

2009-01-28T12:27:00.013-05:00

I couldn't help but post this pic... this Native American baby looks almost exactly like my Little Papi!

I've been tagged by my humble sis, Hijabee, so here are my answers:

NOTE: You have to add one additional "favorite" thing to the end of the list when you answer

Favorite color: Black

Favorite perfume (guys): Issey Miyake... ultra sexy? any attar my hubby wears! ;)

Favorite perfume (girls): the classic Calyx by Prescriptives

Favorite pj brand: Any

Favorite clothes brand in general: Gap

Favorite person in the entire world: Me! LOL... just kidding- my babies!

Favorite country: Barbados (so many vacations there... loads of memories)

Favorite car: R350 (perfect family vehicle)

Favorite sport: baseball

Favorite sport player: none

Favorite spot in America: toss up between Savannah, Georgia and Boston

Favorite animal: birds (to me, bliss is hearing them sing in the morning)

Favorite movie: Indian: Devdas - American: Scarface

Favorite singer: none now although I really used to love Jill Scott

Favorite day in the week: Fridays!

Favorite time of the day: Evening

Favorite holiday season: Summer

Favorite number: 21

Favorite food: Lobster tails

Favorite chocolate: Godiva (especially truffles)

Favorite cartoon: as a child, Tom & Jerry

Favorite blogger: none (actually many are good- cant choose)

Favorite Flavor Ice Cream: Mint chocolate chip

Favorite Mobile Brand: My Blackberry Curve- cant be without it!

Favorite name: my hubbys!

Favorite hobby: Shopping, shopping and more shopping!

Favorite room in my house: Bedroom

Favorite Fruit: toss up: Mangos and Cherries!

And I add: Favorite flower: Calla lily

I tag the following sisters:
Beautiful Muslimah
Desert Monsoon
Desert Veil
Inspired Muslimah
Momamona
Seeking Serenity

In relaxation mode...

2009-01-22T22:22:00.012-05:00

I feel the need to kick back and relax... in spite of all the boxes, clothes, books, food and other miscellaneous items sitting in the middle of house beckoning for my attention! I'm sooo tired of looking at this stuff... I feel as if I haven't even made a dent. So here we are amongst the books tonight that need to be boxed up so I started reading some of my favorite quotes (I'm a quote loving girl).....

Tonight's featured writer: Aristole

-All human actions have one or more of these seven causes: chance, nature, compulsion, habit, reason, passion, and desire.

-All paid jobs absorb and degrade the mind.

-All virtue is summed up in dealing justly

-Man perfected by society is the best of all animals; he is the most terrible of all when he lives without law, and without justice.

-The moral virtues, then, are produced in us neither by nature nor against nature. Nature, indeed, prepares in us the ground for their reception, but their complete formation is the product of habit

-We are what we repeatedly do

-I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his enemies

-Piety requires us to honor truth above our friends

-To enjoy the things we ought and to hate the things we ought has the greatest bearing on excellence of character.

And one of my all time favorites:

-It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it

My heart is bleeding....

2009-01-17T16:42:00.011-05:00

If you have a weak stomach or can't take extreme graphics, don't click the link for what you will see will surely make you ill... our sister Lazeena has a very disturbing post that needs to be seen by as many people as possible so they can see what those animals are doing in Gaza- I shouldn't even disgrace the animals with the association... they are the vilest things to slither around on the face of this earth.

Click here

I definitely didn't see this story on Al-Jazeera's site before I commented on how it looks like the US gave the savages the "green light" to do as they please since the government is about to change hands- check this story out: http://english.aljazeera.net/news/americas/2009/01/200911402950253579.html

Crazy behind the veil?

2009-01-15T13:00:00.007-05:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to speak to my very outspoken sister-girl last night and we discussed a few things that are going on under the umbrella of Islam but all it is are sick people succumbing to their own desires/wants/needs.

Here are a few interesting things that are currently going on out there with sisters... and even though it might sound funny, these are truly some very serious issues:

- A sister marry a kaffir thinking that he loves you (because he tells you so) so you go to civil court and marry but yet he NEVER converts;

- When your husband decides he would like to make an "undesirable" a housewife and a Muslim (just so he could have her)... and you totally agree(?);

- A sister who walks around constantly saying "My husband says..."- the Case of the Husband Sayers and what he SAYS is not Islamically correct anyway;

- Or the husband wants another wife he KNOWS he can't afford (but all the other brothers have 'em) so to make YOU feel good, he'll allow you to pick her for him, online... tsk tsk;

- Or your husband have you and other wives but yet all are on public assistance and yet still making babies like pouring Kool-Aid? And most of these men DON'T work... and somebody correct me if I'm wrong, isn't this haram? Aren't you to marry what you can support???

- You don't wear hijab because your husband say so or the new one going "he's scared for your safety";

- "My husband beats me because he loves me"... immediate psychotherapy required!

- The husband can't find a job (most of them don't want one) so he makes one wife go to work and the other stay and take care of all the kids and make them all live in one house... and his function is?????

- Or the brother who has multiple wives and to cut down on his "running around" to keep time equal between them feels it's easier to sleep with ALL of them AT ONCE? AstaghfirAllah....

I don't know about the current state of some of our Muslimahs today- as I hear, these are real, live issues that are on the forefront in some of their lives... and what exactly do any of these things have to do with our glorious religion? Or even legislated for that matter? If someone knows something I don't, please enlighten me...

If you see or know a sister going through anything remotely similar to above, sit her down and TALK to her, I think she needs your help.

What will you teach your children???

2009-01-09T21:58:00.007-05:00

It seems there's not much love in this world of ours... we are in a sad, pittiful state! We need to teach our children the right things so they grow with acceptance, tolerance of others and respect for mankind:

If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If children live with hostility, they learn to fight.
If children live with fear, they learn to be apprehensive.
If children live with pity, they learn to feel sorry for themselves.
If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If children live with tolerance, they learn patience.
If children live with praise, they learn appreciation.
If children live with acceptance, they learn to love.

If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.
If a child lives with jealousy, he learns to feel guilty.
If a child lives with fairness, he learns to justice.
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.
-Dorothy Nolte

What will you teach YOUR children???????????

10 Random things about me.... oh boy.........

2009-01-07T23:06:00.023-05:00

Okay, I've been tagged by my wonderful sisters, Hijabee and Hajar so here's my imput for 10 random things about me:

1.) When talking, I HATE to have to repeat myself... an old pet peeve I can not let go of- I get irritated if I have to (also when you talk to people and they don't look at you... ugh!)

2.) I dislike very much when people call, let the answer machine pick up, and DON'T leave a message (then I have to check caller ID to see who it was = annoying)... I mean, what kind of psychotic thing is that?

3.) I don't like not being able to "handle" a situation... me, a definite total control freak!

4.) LOVE shopping... not so much for myself but for my babies and others especially when I know they like certain things- more like a "pleasant surprise" gift

5.) Dislike when things are out of order... meaning not in its proper place (always mumbling something about this to the hubby)

6.) Love to escape the city for the country (or even better, the ocean!)... green grass, wide open spaces and vast oceans is for me!

7.) Love to cook and have gatherings with my friends... food tends to relax most of us and I like to feed people... especially to be able to see them smile and laugh with their friends- I'm the definite party coordinator!

8.) I love to drive fast cars... had 1 or 2 of them growing up and I always thought I would race them on a track one day as a hobby (NOT!)(lol)

9.) People always put me "in charge" or hold me as some "authority" figure (yeah, right)... from the time I was old enough to REALLY know myself, this has been my role- always "You're smart, so we'll let Anisa take care of it!" or "They'll definitely listen to you, you tell them!" or "Let's ask Anisa to see what SHE says..." or the classic "I think they all scared of you, you do it..." ... hence one of my biggest roles in life

10.) I'm the usual "go to person" for just about everything... with living life, people have ALWAYS come to me as I've been "around" and know where to get just about anything under the sun (well, not really everything but you get the picture... lol)- always, "If anyone knows, Anisa knows..." hence one of my other bigger roles in life

Okay, so I tag the following sisters: a learning Muslimah, Beautiful Muslimah, Desert Monsoon, Desert Veil, Halal Honey, the Striving Muslimah and Thru My Muslim Eyes.

Donations for Israel

2009-01-04T13:47:00.019-05:00

I just received a very interesting text message that I wanted to share with everyone:

"Fwd: Starbucks and McDonalds are donating their next 2 weeks of earned revenue to Israel. Please BOYCOTT them and forward this message to everyone you know..."

Now, remember that could be YOUR country that was being bombed... your Mother, Father, sister, brother or innocent child(ren) being slaughtered for no reason- let's not take our freedom(s) for granted.

Even if you hate every Muslim on the face of the earth and everything we stand for, you must agree that we're all human and those poor people DO NOT deserve what has been happening to them. Any person with a quater of a brain and any kind of heart could see that this is genocide taking place while the WHOLE WORLD sits back and watch... shame on us all

******* People take a look at this link below and do what YOU will with the information as I WILL NOT engage in a debate with ANYONE over this topic, so don't bother yourselves too much. If you choose to ignore it, than so be it- if you figure you might be able to divert any more harm to those people in Palestine, then act on it- the choice is yours *******
Please check out Ange's post here on some companies that are owned and/or operated or their affiliation- enough said

LOL... I think I have a headache....

2009-01-04T04:38:00.004-05:00

Assalaam 'Alaikum sisters (and "hello" to you other readers):

People, I posted this as a comment on my last post, but for those who may not see it: there is a beautiful poem over at Umm Ismail's newer blog that I think ALL should read...

Enough said... geesh

Do you REALLY love your sister?

2009-01-02T20:42:00.019-05:00

I was just having a very refreshing chat with a sister and we touched on the subject as to whether or not sisters really love each other... because I know, if you really love your sister like you claim to, you won't "sugar coat" the truth to make her feel good and not "pull her up" when she's wrong. I mentioned in another post of mine I believe or in the comments of one of my post that here, where I live, when one of us is wrong, a sister or group will call you on your mistake- now, some of us a VERY tight so sometimes the words may seem to be a bit "rude" for others but we understand each other... we know that the sister is addressing the issue(s) because she loves her sister and don't want her to err- it's not about getting an attitude and giving people the "cold shoulder". We call it "constructive criticism". Please tell me... exactly how do you benefit from people telling you lies to make you feel good? Some people WANT to be pacified... and sorry, we tend to call them like we see them so I guess we're not a good group if you're looking for "feel good" friends..... :o

Love for your sister what you would love for yourself... if you love her, tell her the truth- she may NOT appreciate it then but if she a true sister and realize her mistake(s) then it was worth it in the end. It's not be rude but state your concern(s) with love and tactfulness that she may see where she went wrong. And she should thank you, if not aloud, in her heart. And if you're the type of person who allow your sister to continually make the same mistakes in her actions, words and/or behavior without correcting her, then know you are definitely not your "sister's keeper" and most infinitely not her friend...

My personal philosophy is "never co-sign garbage"... and I plan to teach my kids the same, InshaAllah- some may not appreciate your "direct" approach as most are accustomed to people telling them things to make them look or feel good when they themselves KNOW they're wrong, but in the end, you'll know that you did the right thing. That Muslimahs, is REAL love......

Hello stranger....

2009-01-02T13:29:00.009-05:00

Hello, stranger.... it was an experience briefly chatting with you today although our conversation lacked "feeling". Inner intuition is telling me one thing but I won't put it out there for the world to scrutinize... I'm no psychoanalyst nor do I desire to be but there seems to be more than a few things going on- remember, I'm ALWAYS available whenever you want to talk... my door will NEVER close:

You wander as a lonely

Each day you wake up with a frown
Rumours keep spreading around town
That you’re suffering a mental breakdown

A solitary walk you walk
A lonely talk you talk
As you wander as a lonely

You wander as a lonely at night
You wander as a lonely on sight
You wander as a lonely at day
You wander as a lonely and pray
You wander as a lonely each day

Slow down, slow down
Shut down, shut down

Shutdown the lonely before you drown
Embrace your friends with warmth
They can give you assistance
Deliver you from your lonely existence

You keep fighting love
Bending it around like a curve
With your glowering face
Reserving only a lonely place,
Halting happiness to arrive in your life

Do you ever stop to wonder?
Do you ever stop to ponder?
Are you the reason for the lonely blunders?

Slow down, slow down
Shut down, shut down

Remove from your head that lonely crown
You wander endlessly as a lonely
Searching for a spot called homely
But your face is missing that vital smile called lovely

Copyright 2006 - Sylvia Chidi

Happiness Is Not Comforts

Does happiness depend upon comfort?
The answer is definitely a big, No!
Happiness lies in not comforts alone!
Happiness is not a static quality of the human mind, body and soul.

All can’t remain happy all the time.
It would be foolishness to wish for a life, filled with happiness alone;
Happiness is more when woes come in-between.
Happiness is just a feeling weird!

Life could become boring and monotonous, when happiness is prolonged.
Even the pauper can be happier than the prince.
Even the beggar smiles and sleeps well, despite much strife.

Happiness is a frame of mind that’s dynamic in nature;
Happiness is a kind of mood of feeling very well;
Happiness is a state of one, when life seems worth living;
Happiness is something strange that varies with time, experience and wisdom.

Happiness is all within;
Happiness is in giving;
Happiness is in sharing;
Happiness is the ceiling, whatever you fix!

Happiness does not wholly depend on comforts;
Happiness cannot be bought by money;
Happiness is not all luxury;
Happiness is abstract to the core!

Happiness is in being child-like, though adult;
Happiness is in making and seeing the less fortunate ones, smile;
Happiness is in acting adult-like, although a child
Happiness is in giving something to someone, although you still need it.

Happiness is in sacrificing for others’ sake;
Happiness is in giving up your chance to someone, who most needs it;
Happiness is in doing acts of charity;
Happiness is when you’ve led a righteous life.

Happiness to some is in dreams alone;
Happiness to some doing risky feats;
Happiness to a few is in a sheer lazy life;
Happiness to some is in yeoman service to mankind.

Happiness is a phenomenon;
Happiness is a quirk of fate;
Happiness is quite rare and scarce at times;
Happiness to some is in living in a virtual world!

Happiness is in braving the storms of life;
Happiness is in toiling for others’ sakes;
Happiness is in sharing your talents and ken;
Happiness is in loving your poor brethren.

Copyright by Dr John Celes 6-15-2008

Trying to raise our daughters with mirror images of themselves

2009-01-01T12:26:00.009-05:00

I've started to take my daughter with me more frequently when I shop and I'm starting to see what she's looking at when we go to the mall or the supermarket. Now, I let her pick DVD's for her and her brother to watch- always either Diego, Dora, the Backyardigans or Elmo and she has a few Barbie movies... and I notice her looking at all the "big girls" when we go out and even at the age of 4, she has begun to take notice of what they're wearing. One day, when we were walking she said, "Mommy, look at her hair!" as the girl hair was very long like hers, MashaAllah and "I like her pants..." which the girl had on a pair of decorated jeans. So it made me realize truly how early we need to start to "instruct" our girls with the proper way of covering herself. Now, we started to put hijab on her just a little before she turned 2, not full time but to get her used to the idea of wearing it. Now that she's 4, she knows what it's all about... there are some days when she'll say to me, "Mommy, I don't wanna wear it today!"- these are the days when we paid a visit to the Dominican salon for her monthly deep condition and "blow out"- if any of you know about it or ever had one, you definitely know there's nothing else out there like it! But for the most part she doesn't protest about putting it on and on some days when the house is crazy and I'm trying to get everybody out to get some place on time, she'll even remind ME by yelling, "Mommy, you forgot my hijab!!!"... MashaAllah.

It made me start to think about all the images they see on a daily basis and how even when we think they're not listening, their little ears hear ALL things.... on more than one occasion while driving, if I had an episode of "road rage" and called someone an "ignorant donkey", she would say to me "Mommy, why did you say that? That's not nice...."- and she's right. That's when I catch myself and tell her Mommy was wrong and that wasn't a nice thing to say and that I'm sorry. She would say to me in return, "Mommy, okay, NOW you're being a good girl... excellent, Mommy!"- the phrase I always tell her when she corrects her behavior, subhanallah.

So I never bought her any dolls until recently as my husband IS NOT an advocate of them but as a Mom, I knew I grew up with too many to count so I wanted to her to have a few so she would be able to "play house" the same way I did coming up... so I bought her three Pottery Barn Kids dolls as she fell in love with these particular ones when she saw their latest catalog in the house. While the dolls are fully dressed and look "normal" meaning not like those hoochie Bratz dolls, I said to myself I should find her something that would be more suitable for her as a little Muslimah- which started my quest for the beautiful Fulla doll. Now, I became familiar with the doll when it first came out but since she just came along and now she's starting to took at dolls, I thought I'd better be proactive and give her something to identify with in a positive way. When she visits her cousin's house in Long Island, she has more dolls than any one shelf in Toy'R'Us and they play with them for hours... including those provocative Bratz girlz... and I see she likes them as I sit there and watch her by the way she stares at them- NOT the image we want etched in that mind of hers!!!

We've also made it a practice of having her wear her abaya when she goes out to masjid so she can get used to that idea as well- and when I recently started researching where here in the US I could purchase the Fulla doll, I saw that you can get her in her abaya, in her prayer outfit, as a dentist, as a teacher and totally dressed up in a gown... just the thing I was looking for! They are quite costly but to me it's worth it- if I can buy her a non-Muslim PBK doll then I can pay a few more dollars to buy her something that she can identify her Mom, my friends and her little friend's Mommies with... properly covered and wearing a hijab! Even when I showed my 2 year old, Big Papi, the Fulla doll, he exclaimed, "That's Mommy!"...

MashaAllah, she LOVES wearing niqab when we visit one of my girlfriend's house or when my best friend is around, she'll take the niqab and put it on herself! At home since I don't wear one, she improvises by taking my inside scarf and tying it around her face... InshaAllah, I hope in the future she elects to wear one... she would look sooooo beautiful (MashaAllah). They need to make a Fulla doll complete with niqab!!!

Just jotting this down to remind myself and any of you sisters out there with daughters that they are sooooo much more aware than we realize and we need to be more diligent with showing our daughters to guard their beauty by covering properly- early intervention saves a WHOLE lot of headache later...

How time flies....

2008-12-31T20:23:00.015-05:00

My best girlfriend who recently moved to Saudi is currently visiting Cairo and we were chatting today about how fast time flies... on this same day, one year ago, we boarded Egypt Air from New York to Cairo- her and her youngest daughter and me and my two little terrors... with intentions on having a blast! Just a getaway, to take care of somethings for herself and me, to confirm my intentions (again) as to whether I really wanted to make that move. We had a trip planned to Hurgada when we were finished with shopping, shopping and did I mention shopping? lol

But things didn't exactly work out that way in the end- we had to cut our trip short after about 9 days as she had a very serious illness in her family. And on the night before we left, I had to have a frap from their Costa Coffee house in Al Rehab... it was raining and instead of me walking which seemed like a 1/4 of a mile (wasn't) I decided to cross a very wet wooden bridge which extended across a very elaborate water fall display... so guess what happened next? I went up the steep bridge okay but with having on high heeled boots, on the steep decline down, my feet began to slip... so I started to run-walk to avoid slipping... and all of a sudden, I couldn't stop! So, I had to think quick as I knew I was going to fall but definitely didn't want to fall on my stomach since I was 2 months pregnant and just a little paranoid (I had 2 miscarriages before that pregnancy) so I decided to brace my feet when I came to the end of the bridge so I ended up in a "arched cat stance"- when that happened, I heard three VERY loud snaps.... I couldn't walk! I managed to get up, limp to the coffee house (still had to get that drink... hey, I was pregnant!) and as I was standing there, I could feel my right ankle start to balloon up so big my boot felt tight around my ankle. Trying not to panic, I wasn't sure if it was broken as the pain was unbearable but I held it in like a trooper (helps to have a high pain tolerance...) and made it back to my hired car. The driver asked me what happened, and I told him I fell and I'm not sure if it's broken... he immediately drove me to my friend's flat, took my kids home and raced me to the hospital there in Rehab. Not long after arriving, they summoned the doctor from I think home, took three x-rays of my right ankle and we awaited the results... totally fractured in three places! The doctor made a cast, told me to buy a shoe, bear the pain since I was expecting and follow up with my doc when I got back home- I was ordered to wear it for 6 weeks and then have it evaluated further...

We left Cairo the next morning in route home... my husband was a wreck when we arrived for some reason he thought I said my right hand so he was a bit relieved to see it was my ankle... and that everyone in the end, was okay. On the flight home, I was miserable and feeling a little queasy which I NEVER do when I'm pregnant- my husband ALWAYS have my pregnancy symptoms eg: back pain, nausea, vomiting, food cravings, etc... talk about funny! But I couldn't wait to get home, in my house and elevate my feet...my kids were trying to rub it for me to make me feel better while I suffered thru that immense pain- I kept trying to sleep it off.... didn't work.

So we laughed today at exactly how time flies and reminisced about our lovely trip... I can't wait to see her late next month / early February, InshaAllah- may Allah reward her for being a very good sister (Ameen). I can't wait to have henna parties and sleep-overs! (LOL)

Raf, I love ya!

Just a little more closer now.....

2008-12-26T19:59:00.007-05:00

I've been going a little nuts lately with trying to figure out what should be my next move with the BIG move we're untaking... I kinda feel like I'm in limbo- so much to do but don't where to start while other things can't begin because other things need to happen first... Ugh.

But, finally a step in the right direction, my hubby's friend has a shipping company he uses for his business and they, Alhumdulillah, have an excellent rate with shipping goods overseas so InshaAllah, this is the company I'll send my things with- that was a HUGE relief! Now, I spoke to my contact in Cairo earlier today and he's finalizing who he will deal with on that end to get my things from Alexandria to Cairo.... he's going to give me the details tomorrow, InshaAllah!

So.... here we are.... getting closer.... bags are being packed slowly.... finding out what's left to be bought (probiotics, vitamins, kid medicine, etc.)... last minute things to sell.... things to give away as charity.... buy my tickets.... get together with my girls before I leave and they leave for their destinations (Saudi, Australia, Florida and such)... make my rounds for my goodbyes to my family and friends.... take my kids to their last Disney show in New York.... call those I won't see to tell them I'll contact them when I arrive in Cairo via phone or after I get internet service (which I hope will be ASAP- I must have a computer at my immediate disposal!).... and the list goes on.

I really don't expect to have any entries about anything exciting until we actually get there- I'm sure that's when the REAL fun is going to start (yeah right) ;)

What do you think?

2008-12-26T17:16:00.005-05:00

I posted more than a few new pictures of sisters I found along the entire length of the side bar... what you think? Some are actual photos, some are more of a fashionable photograph but I thought all were beautiful- and represent a small cross section of who we are.

Too many pics, not enough variation... too much variation? Feedback, please!

Desktop Backgrounds

2008-12-25T10:51:00.023-05:00

I paid a visit to the blog of our fellow sister Mona on this very still, quiet Christmas day (it's like the world is standing still here) and she posted her favorite desktop backgrounds... so as a tag, I'm posting my favs here:

The ever beautiful, awe-inspiring Taj Mahal... InshaAllah on my list to visit after I complete Hajj

Some women in the marketplace

The peaceful escape of Maldives

A few shots from Anne Geddes various collections.....

A beautiful black sand beach- ahh, it's calling me.....

What are some of your favorite backgrounds?

Care for a little sisterly advice?

2008-12-22T06:39:00.019-05:00

Let's see... I don't even know where to begin- Hmm, we'll start here with: pretentiousness, self-righteousness, arrogance, humiliation and superficial behavior have NO PLACE IN ISLAM. Over the course of the last few days, I've seen sisters belittle each other- and I found it to be quite disturbing. One can TRY to relate to the plight of another, but as stated before by me in other blogs, unless you've actually been the receiving end of that EXACT situation, regardless of what it might be, you will be able to SYMPATHIZE or some may EMPATHIZE but you CAN NOT understand the full magnitude unless you've been there yourself.

I think we should all know by now that it's okay to agree to disagree with certain issues that people might hold near and dear to their hearts- we all will never see eye to eye on certain issues, and that's okay- it's to listen, try to understand and offer a possible solution but not one that seems to belittle the situation or argument... that just leads to more division and resentment- and with each resentment, there is usually some form of retaliation... and that is a normal human reaction. To be human is to err, none of us are perfect, but to willingly cut your sister down to make yourself feel better IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. If you've offended your sister with words or your actions, you should seek her forgiveness- it's not about being the bigger or better person in the situation but as Muslimahs who supposedly follow the doctrines of Islam, we should not let things separate us- I kid you not, I can almost feel the bitterness and resentment out there... and that's UNISLAMIC.

Also, let's not generalize people's situations- it's just another form of belittlement. Yesterday was yesterday and today is a fresh slate: don't reference yesterday's infested sore on your blog with post that have nothing to do with the previous agrument(s)- don't beat a dead horse... let the ignorance lay where it is- if someone didn't see it, good because that display of contempt is nothing to be proud of.

Your sister has the right to defend herself! If points or inferences are made about an idea or statement that was made, a sister should be able to defend her statement- maybe she IS wrong or lack understanding in your plight but all the same she has the right to be heard- do not delete the comments. Someone out there might be able to explain to her where she is wrong or missed the point of your argument- you can't have that exchange if their words are deleted. By all means, if some donkey comes along from the outside looking in, spewing total ignorance, then delete them without hesitation. Do it in the spirit of fairness- people aren't always going to agree but someone out there with a similar view may become enlightened when some points of the argument are explained- nor should you "pick and choose" whose comments you'd like to publish if someone's view doesn't strike your fancy....

Maybe some will read this and say who asked her... or I don't care about her outlook on the situation- but we as Muslimahs SHOULD care about each other regardless of what race or creed we hail from. We are all responsible for our actions and words and on the Day of Judgement, we all will surely answer for our deeds...and if you could care less about what I said above, I will say this to you- FEAR ALLAH... full stop.

I love all of you, my sisters, for the pleasure of Allah regardless whether you are white, black, purple, green, magenta, grey, yellow, blue, ugly, stunningly beautiful, short, fat, tall, skinny, scarred or flawless!

Now, can we ladies climb back into the sandbox and play nice? As always, all comments are welcomed! ;)

Reminiscing about my marriage weekend...

2008-12-21T09:17:00.025-05:00

My beautiful sister, Hijabee in DC, had a post concerning family and it talked about a certain Hindi movie- I used to watch them ALL the time and my first intro to Bollywood films was thru my husband (wasn't the hubby then) and being as sweet as he is, MashaAllah, he translated the entire movie, Devdas.

When I thought of Devdas, I thought about the weekend we got married and how I ran around looking for a beautiful lehenga that I knew would please my hubby... now of course, I'm not Desi but I knew it would bring a smile to his face to see me dressed in the traditional garment of his culture... and he had no idea!

So, if any of you know anything about New York, the best place to shop for traditional bridal wear is in a place (area) called Jackson Heights in Queens- you can always go there and find brides and their sisters and Moms checking out lehenga cholis, salwar kameez and saris... all heavily beaded and quite exquisite! Now, me being a big girl and tall, the quest wasn't an easy one as most bridal shops carry no sleeve, cap sleeves, mid section exposed, back out lehengas- and not in ample plus sizes! I didn't want to go the salwar kameez way- felt funny with wearing pants to the masjid... so I searched and searched until I found the perfect one!

I ended up with a VERY beautiful soft powder blue one nicely beaded with long sleeves- it was meant to be! I thought of my husband's face when he would see me- and it made the mad hunt worth it!

We were married on a Friday after prayers and there was a nice gathering at the nikkah- then we went home to a few friends and family to have a nice lunch. We had established before we married we wouldn't get crazy with the expenses (it's not like we were 18 anyway... lol) so we could put alot of money to the side for something else. My walimah was the next day- and it was fabulous, MashaAllah! I left home hours before him to go to the mall in Long Island to have my makeup done at M.A.C. and I took my dupatta so they could see what I was wearing to use complimentary colors on my chocolate brown skin... and the end result? Simply stunning if I say so myself, MashaAllah... it all turned out better than expected!

When I arrived at the masjid, everything was in place in the sister's section and the guests was arriving in a steady stream and next thing you know, the place was packed! Everyone had a wonderful time and my family and friends (who are all Non-Muslims) had a great time as well... you should've seen everyone's face when they saw me! It was nice to play "dress up" since we can't do such things everyday... but we sisters have worn ours lehengas to our all-girl Eid get-togethers- all of us modelling our finest Desi wear... I'm gonna miss that *sigh*

Later that day when my hubby wanted to speak to me, I met him by a door and when I opened it he said, "Wow..... MashaAllah!"- and it made the running around in the freezing cold worth every second! I'm obviously not Pakistani but I was his Pakistani bride that day- only a chocolate version! I thank Allah (SWT) for my hubby... he was my friend, introduced me to Islam and became my other half... what more can a girl ask for?

Randoms thoughts on living life

2008-12-20T16:16:00.006-05:00

Oh, I'm in a reflective mode right now so I thought I'd share some quotes from random authors on living life:

Life is like a taxi. The meter just keeps a-ticking whether you are getting somewhere or just standing still.

Life is a grindstone. Whether it grinds us down or polishes us up depends on us.

We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.

Live as if your were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.

In the game of life it's a good idea to have a few early losses, which relieves you of the pressure of trying to maintain an undefeated season.

In the book of life every page has two sides: we human beings fill the upper side with our plans, hopes and wishes, but providence writes on the other side, and what it ordains is seldom our goal.

Expecting life to treat you well because you are a good person is like expecting an angry bull not to charge because you are a vegetarian.

All of the animals except for man know that the principle business of life is to enjoy it.

Difficult times have helped me to understand better than before, how infinitely rich and beautiful life is in every way, and that so many things that one goes worrying about are of no importance whatsoever...

Ay! Tagged yet again!

2008-12-19T21:54:00.006-05:00

Okay, I tagged my sista-gurl, Halal Honey and she tagged me back! So, here are the rules again:

- Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following questions

- They have to be real place, names, things, nothing made up!

- Try to use different answers if the person who tagged you had the same 1st initial.

- You can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

What is your name: Anisa

A 4 letter word: arch

A boys Name: Amir

A girls Name: Anjali

A color: amethyst

Something you wear: ascot

A food: avacado

Something found in the bathroom: air vent

A place: Aruba

A Reason for being late: accident

Something you shout: Ay!

Ahh... the awesome letter A

2008-12-19T14:18:00.010-05:00

Salaam 'Alaikum sisters... I was tagged my beautiful sister, Hijabee in DC, so here are the rules to this tag:

- Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following questions
- They have to be real place, names, things, nothing made up!
- Try to use different answers if the person who tagged you had the same 1st initial.
- You can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

What is your name: Anisa
A 4 letter word: ache
A boys Name: Abdullah (my Big Papi...)
A girls Name: Asiya
A color: azure blue
Something you wear: anklets (many of them!)
A food: apricot
Something found in the bathroom: aspirin
A place: Argentina
A Reason for being late: aggravation
Something you shout: Aha!

I will tag these ladies:
Desert Veil
Halal Honey
Inspired Muslimah
Momamona

Why are women so.....

2008-12-18T07:54:00.006-05:00

Actually, you could end that sentence with just about anything but I can't take women who are catty and just down right phoney.... they annoy me to no end- maybe because I'm older or maybe it's not having much tolerance for ignorance, who knows, but I don't have the stomach for most women. It's a sad thing to say but why are women this way? And it starts from so very young.... when I see young girls behave in this manner, I give them "the look" like you shouldn't act like you are right now and if I personally know them, I ask them, "What's going here? None of that garbage!" Yes, there are times when people (women) do things and we "share" the information with each other but you gotta know when to turn that stuff off- that's backbiting and usually a dose of slander thrown in for good measure.

Or those who want to be with you, associate with you, form an alliance with you to benefit themselves... pleeeze. Just how old are we anyway? Most act like children or young school girls- as that old song goes, "act your age, not your shoe size". Alot of people use to think I was "uppity" because when they start this same mess, I look at them like they have about 18 heads or walk away but I don't have time for gossip- my life is too busy for it and I don't need any extra sins, thank you. I gave that crap up when I was about 16... lol

Anyhoo, just observing a few things... it wasn't really worth talking about but some women can take you there.... and for those who don't have a plethora of knowledge, here's the dictionary definition of phoniness:

Phoniness

Main Entry: pho·ny
Variant(s): also pho·ney \ˈfō-nē\
Function: adjective
Inflected Form(s): pho·ni·er; pho·ni·est
: not genuine or real: as a (1): intended to deceive or mislead (2): intended to defraud : counterfeit b: arousing suspicion : probably dishonest c: having no basis in fact : fictitious d: false , sham e: making a false show: as (1): hypocritical (2): specious
— pho·ni·ly \ˈfō-ni-lē\ adverb
— pho·ni·ness \ˈfō-nē-nəs\ noun

Just wanted to put that out there... now I can get on with my day

5 things......

2008-12-17T11:16:00.013-05:00

I love these... I was tagged by my sis, Umm Travis... so here's my story:

5 Things I was doing 10 years ago:

- I was at the VERY tender age of 28 (tender- yeah right) just started working at my last job (laid off last year) and taking a much needed break from college (pursuing too many things)

- Hanging with my girlfriends... doing ALOT of shopping ( you know us girls!)

- Vacationing every chance I got (one of my favorite past times.... *sigh*)

- Moving into a new apartment

- Making plans to move to the West Indies after finishing my degree (which one, wasn't sure)

5 Things On My To-Do List:

- Packing... and more packing!

- Buy some stuff I want to take to Cairo

- Make more brown sugar scrubs

- Possibly drive my kids upstate New York this weekend by the Canadian border to stay at my fellow Muslimah's house (so her kids and mine can go bonkers!)

- Call some friends

5 Snacks I Like:

- Haagen Dazs and Breyers brand ice cream (Yummy!)

- Granola bars

- Cannolis (Italian pastry)

- Pillsbury dough cookies (the ones you make yourself)

- Salted pistachios

5 things I would do if I was a millionaire...

- Buy a HUGE home (perfect- no riba!) and have at least 1/2 acre backyard to build my kids the ultimate playground

- Fly my nearest and dearest family & friends from all over the world to Cairo so I can host the ultimate BBQ (I'm famous for those)

- Finally open the clinic I was thinking about doing years ago for the Native American women & children for ob-gyn & pediatric care (the idea was to give back to the people which they are a huge part of my heritage) at a low cost or free of charge

- Give sadaqah to all the Muslimahs around the world with children and no husband (do you know how many of them are out there?)

- Put all the kids I personally know thru 4 years of college

5 places I have lived ( for various lengths of time):

- Long Island, New York (where I grew up)

- Queens, New York

- Inshallah... Cairo, Egypt!

5 Jobs I have had:

- Sales clerk (1st job at 16.... awwwww)

- Medical collector

- Head customer service rep/area asst supervisor in a optical lab

- Customer service for an aircraft repair company (somebody has to fix the planes we fly in...)

- Senior rep and salesperson for a packaging distribution company (last job)

5 people I will tag:

- A learning Muslimah

Where I would be right now...

2008-12-15T21:13:00.016-05:00

I was just chatting with a girlfriend on-line and we were talking about where we would be right now if we weren't married with children... we laughed about the many places we have each visited in our lives so I thought I'd share where I feel I would be right now and what I'd be doing... kicking back, relaxing on a nice black sand beach... just the sounds of the ocean and my Khalil Gibran book- some of his many passages listed here:

Coming generations will learn equality from poverty, and love from woes.

Generosity is not giving me that which I need more than you do, but it is giving me that which you need more than I do.

I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers.

Knowledge of the self is the mother of all knowledge. So it is incumbent on me to know my self, to know it completely, to know its minutiae, its characteristics, its subtleties, and its very atom.

The just is close to the people's heart, but the merciful is close to the heart of God.

The person you consider ignorant and insignificant is the one who came from God, that he might learn bliss from grief and knowledge from gloom.

To understand the heart and mind of a person, look not at what he has already achieved, but at what he aspires to.

As usual... wow.... now take time to reflect........... he's definitely my favorite!

Rampant racism in Saudi?

2008-12-13T17:36:00.016-05:00

I was talking to a few sisters over the last couple of days and we discussed making Hajj and Ummrah and one sister told me of her unfortunate experience last year when she made Hajj with her husband... she needed to use a restroom and the went to the nearest place, a hotel, to gain relief. Upon them leaving the establishment, one Saudi there began to verbally assault them... told them they couldn't afford to stay in such a hotel and what gives them the right to think they could use the restroom? She said he was screaming and looking at them with total disgust so her husband asked the guy where was his Islam? And all she did was use the restroom... the guy started screaming that "they" are not allowed to use the bathroom and "they" aren't even allowed in such places and he was going to get them in trouble and make them pay a hefty fine for entering the hotel... in Saudi?

Talked to another sister who left today to visit her in-laws in Pakistan and as we were discussing cultures, we arrived on the subject of Saudis and her feelings about how the Saudis treat people... other Muslims, who hail from other nations, like animals. I heard stories of visas being denied because Saudis feel that certain groups are MUCH lower than them and they're not wanted there...more "deserving" people for Hajj come from America, the UK and the sorts. Reminds me of the caste system that STILL exist in India...

Now, I heard how they treat workers from Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and other nations in that region like animals... even worse than animals- most are treated like slaves. Then I went on to hear how some of them work and don't get paid for it... another gave me a personal experience of being sponsored by someone in the country only to be extorted for money when they needed to letter or note to travel within the city... didn't even know you needed that until my friend moved there in September. If you don't go with a job from an actual employer there and you decide to inhabit the place via sponsorship thru someone else, you need that person's permission to go anywhere WITH a note or letter stating they GAVE YOU PERMISSION to do so... if not, and you're caught, you're in trouble and so are they (who sponsored you). But this part isn't soooo bad until people start robbing their own brothers and sisters- where's the Islam in that?

The sister who had the bathroom incident told me this is how things are in Makkah but not in other places like Jeddah. I remember she used to be so gong-ho on her husband completing his degree and getting a job there so they could leave... now she has a real bitter taste in her mouth about the whole thing. Once your skin isn't light, they have an issue with you- I heard even lighter skinned Saudis won't marry darker skinned ones... WTH?

I know there is alot of Arab pride and most of this stems from that but where exactly is your Islam? Your brothers and sisters from other countries are all beggars (this term is used often) and less than dirt in your eyes since they're not Arab? I know racism exist everywhere but to my understanding there the situation is not even concealed... they call you out whenever they feel like it... and they feel it's okay- and right! Subhanallah......

It made me start to think, have any of you gone to Hajj or Ummrah and was made to feel "less than" because of where you're from or your skin tone? I know these things don't happen to white expats there- it seems they're accepted, no problem... and they're non-Muslims.

Have they (and those Muslims from other countries who suffer from this same ignorant disease of the mind) ever heard of these?:

That ye may recognise each other

(Not that ye may despise each other).

Verily, the noblest of you

In the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you."

(Holy Quran 49:13)

"And mankind is naught but a single nation."

(Holy Quran 2:213)

"And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens

And the earth, and the variations in your languages and your colours;

Verily in that are signs for those who know."

(Holy Quran 30:22)

"All men (includes women) are equal in Islam, the Arab has no superiority over the non-Arab, nor does the non-Arab have superiority over the Arab, save in the fear of God."

Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

Any feedback on your personal experiences?

Are you covered?

2008-12-09T10:00:00.006-05:00

While browsing through Sister Najea's beautiful collection from Hijabi Couture, I found that cute little quote to post... enough said!

Allahu Akbar!

2008-12-07T15:37:00.015-05:00