A Muslimah's Musing's

January & February Favourites!

2012-03-01T00:38:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Lecture
Nouman Ali Khan - "Sin's of the tongue". I enjoy listening to islamic reminder's and his lecture's are always easy on the ear's. This video is a must see for anyone. You'd be surprised at how many thing's we do without even realising it. Sometime's from our own heart's and other are whisper's from you know who, audoobilah. I really believe that if we all improved in this area of communication the place would be alot better to live in. You and I both know that a few word's which come out of a person's mouth can either put you off them forever or make you want to be their BFF!
It's only 15 minute's long so don't forget to hit play and share with your family and friend's afterward's. If you aren't reflecting at the end of it, then you must know something is wrong(!)

TV
Call the Midwife - A BBC period drama set in 1950's east end London. Based on the book of the same name by Jennifer Worth. I enjoyed the whole series. It was in 6 part's and very detailed and I enjoyed the different stories of each family but most of all the practice of the midwives themselves. Comedienne Miranda Hart also had a role in it from part two along with a few other familiar face's. The only problem I had with it was that I found out it was based on a book when i was already sucked into it. I love to read a book before it's turned into something on screen. How i hadnt heard about it before now amazes me also!

Dancing on ice - one of my favourite shows which i always look forward to watching each year. I like how they have changed it around this time. One of the best moment's was when Christina Perri sang "Jar of Heart's" whilst Jane Torvill and Christopher Dean skated. Pure bliss. I had it recorded on sky and repeated it Allah knows how many times! Amazing talent shown by each of them. Intricate skating moves that they make look so incredibly easy, drawing the emotion from the song, it was just spectacular. I kept on watching their skate's through the dry ice and each time i saw it i saw something new. They really are very talented. I loved every part of it even down to the end when Chris smiles at Jane hehe. Why aren't they married?!
I found it on youtube, Enjoy!

The worst moment's so far have been Jennifer kicking herself in the head with the point of her blade - ouch! and Jorgie cut Matt's face right inbetween the eyes with her blade! Ouch! What was surprising is how professional they were after each accident happened, Jennifer completed her skate and Matt lowered Jorgie down like a true gent - i would have dropped her tbh! Phillip Schofield said on This Morning that the surgeon who operated on Matt was the same one who parted some conjoined twin's and he sewed his head up from the inside (however that's done!) subhanallah. So he's been told there won't be a scar..."have you been injured in an accident at work?" ;)

Book
Martina Cole - The Take - After reading other book's of hers i decided to read this one. It's not her latest, it's quite an old book.. It has some dark theme's to it like many others so it's probably not everyone's cup of tea. However I have only read the first few chapter's so can't say much more about it. Only that i need to get back into as it's been sitting there for a couple of week's now!

Food
McVitie's Chocolate Digestives - need i say more? : )

Movie
Harry Potter DH Prt 2 - Yes I finally watched it the other week. Having read all the book's and feeling rather diappointed in the screen play's as they miss so much detail and event's out made me not run to the cinema on it's opening night. I finally got round to watching with my husband, and a good job too! Did you see that snake? D: The film was actually quite good, very exciting and moving in part's. It had the odd lol moment which was good too. However i'm still and alway's will be a book person.

Beauty Product
The Raspberry Kiss Body Scrub by Treacle Moon - I highly recommend it. It works wonder's on my pore's, smells great, and doesn't contain any nasties!

BTW who do you want to win Dancing on Ice if you watch it? I like Chemmy but i think it's going to be out of the usual top 3: Jorgie, Matthew and Chico.

FebPhoto's - So long farewell...

2012-02-29T11:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Here are the last photo's of February. I wasn't able to take a photo everyday because i have had the flu. Inshallah i wish to continue the 365 project to Feb 2013.

Everyone need's a comforter! One of my favourite lush product's, great for a soothing bubble bath!

I used an android app called "Photo Art" to create this effect.

My hot water bottle, a must have item for getting better!

Whilst ill i ate weetabix with honey and sliced banana with warmed milk, it was like childhood in a bowl!

After so long the sun decided to put his hat on. A lovely blue sky with the odd cloud was much needed after being stuck in the house unable to move for so long. It's amazing how the sun can warm the soul and makes everything better :D

I made this on the "Keep Calm" android app, after experiencing some unwanted attention i thought it would be the simplest of thing's that people need reminding of.

The latest from Cadbury just had to be tried out!

Spotted this on a loaf of bread! I never even thought to check bread before! So does that mean other bread isn't halal? Odd.

This is what happen's when our olive and tomato omelette decide's to be a rebel and not be a circle(!)

A lovely body butter which smells devine! I highly recommend it!

Review coming soon!

This is Coldplay on The Simpson's, i'm so happy they won best group at the Brit's this past week. It means they are the only band to win it 3 times! Well deserved i must say!

Techie Tuesday ~ Islamic App's 4 U

2012-02-28T11:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Technology can be a wonderful thing if we use it for good. So this week's edition focuses on my favourite islamic app's which you too may find useful. All are tried and tested as i've been blessed to have used different mobile phone's either through work or personal use (android, apple, blackberry and window's).
All app's mentioned are free, unless otherwise stated. I rarely pay for app's because there are so many great freebies available! I always recommend searching for new app's as they are a great way to help our daily live's - islam related or not.
ANDROID
iQuran - 3/5 star'sThis is the mini version, if you want the full version (iQuran Pro) you need to pay. This app is the only free app with English translation. If you can read and understand Arabic then 'Quran Android' would be better suited. I like using this app for a quick reference and occasionally when i'm out and about.
Time4Salat 4.5/5 star'sDubbed the 'Muslim's swiss knife', this is one of my favourite android app's. I remember when i first had my HTC Sensation XL I told everyone with an android phone to install it! It has salah times local to your area, qibla direction and adhan. You can change the adhan to other notification sound's which can be useful because you wouldn't want it going off whilst your phone is in your bag in a public bathroom (as it's disrespectful to utter the word of Allah in the bathroom). The only problem that I have found is that is force closes when you don't acknowledge the previous notification, but i can live with that and i'm sure it will be fixed in a new update.

99 Name's of Allah 5/5 star'sAgain, really useful and easy to learn the 99 name's of Allah SWT. You view the arabic, translation and meaning and on top of that you hear the audio for correct pronunciation. The arabic script is clear too, so you can copy each one down on a post-it and stick them around the room for easy memorisation! Subhanallah!
Salaah: The Muslim Prayer 5/5 star'sThe app is great for learning how to pray. It's almost like the A-Z of salah, from intention to wudu, ghusl, when to pray, call to prayer, the breakdown of the prayer, number of fard and sunnah rakat - all with Arabic script, English translation and transliteration, not forgetting the diagram's of stance and position in salah. It's a fab little app for a revert's to learn how to pray correctly or born Muslim's refreshing their deen and revising their prayer inshallah.
Guidance 3/5 star'sThis app is a bit of a mash up of previous app's mentioned however this app has hadith (including Bukhari & Muslim) and a 'library' where you get the "Stories of the Prophet's" book to read on your device. In my area it's a little temperamental but if you install it, it may work better for you. If you prefer to have everything all in one then you may like this better.
Zabihah 3.5/5 star'sIt's a halal restaurant, market and mosque finder app. It uses your phones location to search for local registered halal establishment's and may find a few hidden gem's you didn't know about. This app is available on other phone platform's, so if you aren't an android user have a search for it on your phone.
Tasbeeh 4/5 star'sThere are many apps entitled 'Tasbeeh' on the android market so I have linked to the search page. However after downloading a few I feel that the 'Tasbeeh with actual experience' is my favourite. You can slide the bead down the string of the masbaha by swiping your finger down the screen of the phone. It has a little reminder at the bottom of the screen too. I found some of the others a little restricting to use so I settled with this one. Another reason why I like this way is because you can see the amount of time's you have hit it, which can be really satisfying and just encourage's me further, alhamdulilah.

BLACKBERRY
Salat MK 3/5 star'sThis is only app I found to work correctly on my old blackberry. Includes different notification sound's. It's a pretty basic app but does it's job.
Halal Food Guide 5/5 star'sAn invaluable tool to use whilst out food shopping to check labelled ingredients. It also includes E-number's and highlights each item in a different colour to co-ordinate with the key. Green for halal, purple for dependable and red for haram. I recommend this app alot. I just hope they bring something similar to android soon!

IPHONE
iSalam: Salah Times
iSalam: Qibla compass
I downloaded both of these app's on my husband's phone. He said he hasn't had a problem with them and to be honest they were the only apps that looked legit on the Apple app store. You just have to set them up before you can use them so it picks up your location but it's pretty straight forward.

WINDOWS
Al Qur'an (£0.79) - 5/5 star'sWorth the money, really useful and very easy to use. I used this app on a HTC Trophy.

Do you have any favourite islamic app's?? Please share in the comment's below : )

Modest Fashion Monday ~ Personal Fashion Style

2012-02-27T11:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Source

My personal fashion style:

Feminine

Simplistic

I'm all for simple, clean cut, no faff style's. I can't stand busy or clashing pattern's and OTT garment's or accessory over-load.
Conservative
Comfortable

I feel my best when i'm comfortable, not worrying about if something is uncovered and i can focus on the task at hand or just relax instead of forever adjusting a garment. For example, clutch bag's, what are they all about?? They are just a pain to carry around and personally i don't like not having my hand's free.
Modest
Chic
I never dress in sweat's in public and alway's make an effort as I feel better for it. If you look good, you feel good. Also I feel you should respect other's around you as they are the ones who have to see you. For example, these women who wear short short's with Ugg boot's are offensive to the eye's. Just because you are "proud" of you body doesn't mean you should flaunt it around to put people of their dinner, respect your self and cover it up. The same goes for larger women who still think they can fit into size 6, i beg you, it need's to stop. If you dress for your size and shape (pear, apple, straight, hour-glass..) and you will look a whole lot better.
...ME!
When it comes to 'fashion' identity is one thing which is lost. Some may say the opposite but although people think fashion and dress give you an identity, people following fashion's isn't unique. One thing which I highly consider a fashion 'faux pas' is when women or men will rush out to buy the latest 'in' thing but not even think to check if it suit's them. You all know what I mean, those people who look really proud to be in with the trend's but as hard as they try they just look misplaced and a little desperate. I don't care if it's Ralph Lauren (or any other designer) if it look's like something the cat wouldn't even sleep on!
One thing about me is that I will only wear what I want to wear, not what other's think is cool. If i wear something that is 'in' then that will be pure coincidence. So when I say "i love fashion", it's true but i just dislike how it is taken out of context with this 'sheep' behaviour as everyone start's to look like each other. Just last week there was a quote made by Vivienne Westwood who is responsible for a British fashion institution:
"Everyone looks the same and their clothes have never been so ugly..."
which personally, i believe is down to the disposable fashion culture, largely due to Primark. Investing in higher priced garment's will not only last longer but will stay as key wardrobe pieces for a while as you generally save more as you aren't paying over and over for cheap item's that don't even last two washes. This said, I don't avoid Primark, as you can find some good offer's, but what you have to do is find your own style and pick garment's suited to you.
You can mix high street and high end, it's just about how you feel. I'm one to turn down designer for high street if it looks hideous, why pay for something that you don't like? Just to boast about how much it is? I mean if that is your intention then you fell off the fashion boat a long time ago.
Also I will not be made to feel guilty about continuing to wear something when it is believed to be "out of fashion", as i won't be sucked into consumerism. I paid for it, i like it, it's comfortable and if that's your concern any fashionista know's, all thing's come back into 'fashion' at one time or another anyway, so why waste?
What's your Personal Fashion Style?

Want for others what you want for yourself!

2012-02-24T13:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

We all know the famous hadith where the Prophet (S.A.W) said “none of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself”,but do we really understand what this hadith is saying??

This hadith really goes along way in the aspect of how we should view one another as muslims. This hadith is telling us that as muslims it is a part of our faith to want good for our fellow muslims. Today, however, it seems that muslims are not unifying, rather they are finding ways to break apart. The first thing that a muslim can do to break apart from another muslim is to wish evil on him/her. This is a religion of peace and prosperity so there should be no reason why we as muslims should hate one another or wish misfortune upon each other.

When we don’t take the time out to think about our fellow muslims, then the door for arrogance is wide opened. Arrogance is from shaytaan. It is one of his many tools that he uses to make us muslims go astray and arrogance is despised by Allah. Allah does not like the person who is prideful and boastful in a negative way. There is nothing wrong with a person feeling good about themselves, but one should be careful as to not let it become arrogance. Practicing the above mentioned hadith can be a cure for arrogance.

When we make Dua for others we are becomming less self-centered, it shows Allah that we also have in mind the best interest for our muslim brothers and sisters. This is important for our well-being as muslims. When we make dua for our fellow muslims, then the angels make dua for us the same thing we are asking for someone else. For example, if I pray for my friend to be successful in this life and in the hereafter, then the angels will ask Allah to make me successful in this life and the hereafter as well. Subhanallah, this is a mercy from our Lord. Allah did not make us to hate one another and despise one another. Allah tells in the Qur’an in various chapters that the muslims should be nothing but brethren. I know some of you are thinking what if a muslim does me wrong? We should still wish good on that person and even more so ask Allah to forgive that person and guide him/her away from error.

Islam is a beautiful religion, I am asking my fellow muslims to help keep it a beautiful religion by uniting with one another and practicing this hadith. Qala Rasulillahi, “None of you truly believes untill he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.

Taken from this blog post, it's a shame that this is the only one as there is some great info and logic here. I was going to include it in 'The WWW' but thought it deserved it's own post.

The WWW - Link Love

2012-02-23T11:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

The W.W.W! Wonderful Web Wonder's that I love this week..or month i guess.

Photography: Blind Photography - what an inspiration, i mean really, go check it out!

Online (Facebook) Game: WeTopia - play for joy and it give's real life charity to children in Haiti and the US, what could be better than that??

Fashion: CoolSpotters - this makes it easy to discover and buy the products, and fashions being used by your favourite celebrities – in their real lives, and in movies and television. So if you liked a dress that someone wore and you wanted to know who designed it or where to buy it, this site is a life saver! Although if it's something really recent, it may not be on the site yet, as I tweeted Alison (Amarixe on youtube) the site because she wanted a shirt from Gossip Girl but it wasn't on there as it was the same night that episode aired, although it may have been added by now.

Song: "With you" by Colorfire ..now i first heard this, and got hooked on it because of the video linked called "Friendship Island", so i thought it's only fair to link that rather than the 'official' music video, (but if you want to check that out then click here.) Not to mention that it always makes me smile when I watch it, the video is very well put together and goes to show that anyone can have a fancy camera, but it's actually about the photographer/videographer behind it and what they do with it. Well done Joey for joining the two together as they make the perfect combo.
The video is of 4 friend's (and youtuber's - i found this video via Fleur & Ingrid, who you may know already) who went to Catalina Island, just off the coast of California, it sound's gorgeous doesn't it? It looks it.
I dare you to watch it and not feel happy afterwards!

Documentary - The business of being born. - I'm highly interested in midwifery and birth so after reading about Amnah's home birth (mashallah!) I watched the trailer and now really want to see the whole thing, I found a link to watch the full version online, but shhh. Although birthing is slightly different here in the UK there are many flaw's to giving birth in an NHS hospital. Although it's free it does have it's downfall's such as the increase in caesarean section's which are generally pushed onto the pregnant woman.

Website: The Halal Food Review - I've found lot's of new place's to eat at, alhamdulilah. Very informative too. They also have a facebook page

Blog: Muslim Wife Secret's - a great blog i've been reading this past month

Blog post: Need some tips on how to prepare for a Khutbah? - Then look no further! It also include's pdf notes of the class which i'm sure will be handy to anyone giving a speech or lesson inshallah.

News/Event: The Hajj Exhibition which opened in London at the British Museum. It's priceless when Prince Charles says "hajji" during his speech : D

Website: Saveur - Recipes, culinary arts and instructions, including lot's of invaluable tip's and trick's, and secret's of culinary school! Check this one out - how to peel an entire garlic bulb within second's, i actually thought they were joking when i first saw it!

...And there I was peeling individual garlic clove's like a novice, tut!
P.S: I used a plastic lunch box and it worked all the same ;)

A Muslim's Fitness

2012-02-21T11:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Today I wanted to share a few great way's to get fit and eat well, no matter where you are in the world.

Firstly, here are two book's which I own and highly recommend:

Healing with the medicine of the Prophet -Imam Ibn Qayyim Al-Jauziyah
Food's that Harm - Food's that Heal -Reader's Digest

They really are worth the money and i'm sure will be used for generation's!

Here are a few place's on the web to get some great halal fitness information:

Fit Muslimah

"Fit Muslimah is a health and fitness revolution among Muslim women lead by founder Mubarakah Ibrahim. We give health and fitness information, advice and motivation. In addition we hold several international health and fitness retreats for women throughout the world."

I love reading the little snippet's of health information via facebook update's. They do sometime's help me to get up and work out. I think it's great what Mubarakah is doing mashallah!

Don't forget to LIKE their Facebook page

Sunnah Fit

"SunnahFit is committed to delivering informed and professional services based on reviving the Ummah through physical and mental development. The SunnahFit Team are dedicated towards helping the Ummah in reaching their goals. Our aim is to act as a trusted extension of the Ummah, by providing tutorials, seminars, webinars and much more..."

This one is more for the brother's but sister's can benefit from general information too. There are also some youtube videos on how to do different exercise's which helps and the awrah is always covered mashallah.

Don't forget to LIKE their Facebook page

Nadoona

"Nadoona is starting a health revolution and our mission is to save the world, one calorie at a time!

Nadoona = "Call on us" in colloquial Arabic and pronounced backwards is 'A New Dawn.' The aim: to transform the way people think, feel, and act about their bodies and provide a completely holistic approach to health and fitness..."

Another organisation for the ladies! Working around weight loss and fitness. They also have their own apparel including a breathable hijab for working out, as well as a long-line hoodie which are great if you can't workout at home!

Don't forget to LIKE their Facebook page

Quran Food

"Quran foods are based only on foods which are in Paradise. In fact, Quran foods are best for your health and will keep you disease free and help you loose weight . You can expect to see positive results. Start incorporating them in your daily life, start your day with a Quran food."

Focusing on the food's mentioned with The Quran and encouraging the consumption of these is great. I've alway's been interested in how individual food's help us (hence, the two book's above), it is truly amazing, subhanallah. As mentioned on their site, many illnesses stem from the lack of nutrition (or too much of the wrong thing), therefore a better understanding is crucial for us to take care of our bodies which Allah SWT blessed us with.

Don't forget to LIKE their Facebook page

My Halal Kitchen

"My Halal Kitchen is a halal food and cooking blog featuring culinary tips and healthy halal recipes anyone can make. "

Although this page is not directly focusing on fitness, it give's a wide variety of information for the fuel to your fitness - food! I have mentioned this blog before (focusing on natural DIY beauty product's) and I had to include it again as it really is a favourite of mine. Before the mass of Halal food blog's and home cooking blog's I believe this was one of the first to be aimed at Muslim's mashallah.

Don't forget to LIKE their Facebook page

HOT LINK:

Quran & Sunnah Foods: Health, Nutrition, Natural Healing Food Course

March 2012

Available in Singapore!

Info on their Facebook page

What they all have in common is a passion to help other's in becoming healthier, stronger and more positive people within the guideline's of Islam, mashallah!

On the authority of Abu Hamzah Anas bin Maalik (radiAllaahu anhu) - the servant of the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) - that the Prophet (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) said :

None of you [truly] believes until he loves for his brother that which he loves for himself.

It was related by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim

I pray that all their hard work continue's inshallah.

Strictly Soulmate's: Muslim - Review

2012-02-19T13:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

My friend recommended this TV show called "Strictly Soulmate's" to me via Facebook. It's a series of documentary show's on BBC3. It look's into the lives of several single people within different religion's looking to get married. I missed the other's but did catch the Muslim episode last Thursday at 9pm.

Here is the link to view it on BBC iPlayer if you'd like to watch it before reading the rest as it contain's a few spoiler's. It's available until Thursday 23rd February 2012.

My husband and I watched it together. I was hoping it would be quite refreshing, after all it was being aired on the BBC.

I have to say it was quite a pleasant show, however there were a few hiccup's and we each had our own opinion's on it.

Source

The show looked at 1 Muslim man and 2 women. I was hoping for a happy ending for at least one of them during the show, but it didn't happen. I hope it will work out for them in the future, inshallah.

During the filming of the show you see different way's of going about marriage within Islam. One young woman, an accountancy student had her parent's searching for her and once a meeting was arranged, it was up to her to decide if he was "the one"or not. She even said that it was like 'Blind Date' with her Mother being Cilla Black which was funny and brought a modernity to the show. I loved how it showed her sky diving in the beginning (something which i'd love to do myself) showing that we aren't all boring and fuddy-duddy without being too much in your face. It also showed you a section in the mosque when she attended a workshop on Muslim marriage relationship's which i'm sure would be an eye opener for many non Muslim's!

The guy, an engineering student went to a Muslim marriage service for advice on meeting women for the first time and Muslim matrimonial event information. He only had a short time to look for a spouse as he was heading back to Pakistan for charity work and actually wanting to live there. On the show we saw that he spoke with one prospect and she wanted to meet him again only if he changed his mind about going back to Pakistan, as she wished to stay in the UK. Having a beard and doing stand up comedy he broke down a few wall's but throughout the programme he always jokingly mentioned how women would go no-where near him because of their assumption's based around his beard, but you could tell it went deeper than that. Speaking with my husband during the programme I said that that's strange as alot of women actually prefer a man with a beard as it's a sign of masculinity . It's a shame how you can see it eat at the confidence of brother's in the UK, not only having to put up with judgement from non Muslim's but other Muslim's too. Although it did get to a point in the problem where I thought the song choice was a little OTT, using Lana Del Ray's song "Video Game's", like he was about to commit suicide or something, that was a little over dramatic!

The other woman who was older than the first relied on her brother's and Aunty to act as her Mahram because her Father had passed away. Each had their own hurdle's to pass. The older woman of the two was set on finding a Doctor (like herself) and was very specific on characteristic's which naturally narrowed thing's down.

I think was a good example for anyone else out looking for a partner. You will not find someone with everything on that checklist of your's. Again whilst discussing the programme I said to my husband some of the comment's I have got from girl's about my husband. I remember in college how they used to wish they could get a man "like that" (mashallah!!). The thing is that when two single people meet they then build on top of what they already know from textbook advice with practical experience. After time you both change and become better people for each other. Single people don't see this because it is hidden in a personal relationship (so i'm sharing the secret!) and they just want the 'end product' of a person from the level of a 10 year marriage for example. Therefore a married person may do a particularly romantic thing 2 years into the relationship but not have known to do so or act in such way when single. I hope that make's sense. So to want everything out of a man, just isn't feasible. Just like how he could want the world from you would be unreasonable! Never forget that one major part of marriage is compromise, so it doesn't hurt to do a little whilst on the hunt!

My husband said it may just be how the producer's of the show intended, to make Islam look difficult with having necessary rule's in place, and not allowing free mixing. I can understand this completely as I mentioned I was hoping they may show at least one happy ending.

Inbetween each of the 3 stories they showed snippet's of interview's with random Muslim's for extra insight. Some married, some just started looking and other's still looking. I thought this was great as it show's a wider range of people's experience's.

As the show went on, you couldn't ignore that they translated a few Arabic phrase's which Muslim's use in day to day speech e.g. 'inshallah' meaning God willing. These were great as it include's more non Muslim viewer's and demonstrate's how we are kind, spiritual people e.g. Asalamu alaikum = Peace be upon you, which is said when we meet and greet fellow Muslim's. The only problem that I had and i'm sure more people would have spotted it was when they put "Hamdulilah" on the screen, it's actually "Alhamdulilah" meaning all praise is due to Allah, said when remembering the blessing's in life. I don't know if they got this from an uneducated Muslim, or it was just plain rubbish research.

My husband who is a born Arab also pointed out that although they intend well, some of their action's for the show may come across a little shameful and doubted that you'd find anything like this by religious Muslim's in the middle east..

For example, the free mixing event's that went on, some resulting in one-on-one talk's without a mahrem. There are some rules in Islam that are there for a reason and modern society is a real example as to why we stick to those as best as we can, so it's sad to see people ignore them when they can be of so much benefit. Now i don't mean to insult anyone here, but when a hopeful bride is in the public eye and you have random men saying how 'beautiful' she is (thus placing that thought in male viewer's mind's), I wouldn't be happy if I was her. Everyone want's to hear that they are beautiful, don't get me wrong, but as a Muslim I wouldn't want other strange men to be looking and having these thought's about me, i'd only want that from my eventual husband. Privacy, modesty and dignity are ranked very high in Islam and I wouldn't want anyone else to risk those just for a TV show.

Although this programme was good viewing I think some thing's should still be kept private between both parties away from the public eye (maybe this is why thing's didn't work out whilst it was being filmed).

I don't know about you but I wouldn't want to see some Kim Kardashian style Muslim wedding any time soon!

Cooking for One

2012-02-18T11:07:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I know i'm not alone when I say that my husband tend's to work long hour's. Alhamdulilah, work is a blessing especially in this countrie's climate, more people are out of a job then ever before. When our partner's work shift's they can sometime's be over social hour's, and you can find yourself just cooking for one in the evening.

It's something which we all tend to look over, one time or another and we don't necessarily enjoy cooking, as there is no one to share our lovely cooked meal with.

So one evening a decided to change thing's up a little. Drop the unhealthy microwave meal's, instant noodle's and takeaway menu's! I promise that these will keep you full for longer and will have a far better taste than any manufactured meal. It's also about getting out of that laziness and being creative in the kitchen as alot of these meal's which you will see are just what I have put together, with no recipe in sight.I always feel that the effort is truly worth it and I hope you do too!

Here are a few simple, quick, but tasty and satisfying dishes - cooking for one:

Homemade Neapolitan Pizza

If you have some dough already made, then this is a great choice, you may like to listen to "La Donna e Mobile" for some inspiration to get into the pizza pie making mood!
TIP: if you don't make your own pizza sauce you can always use tomato puree and ketchup for convenience....just don't let my Italian ancestor's know i said that(!)

Halloumi + Egg Pitta's

Not just for breakfast ;)

Cod, Mushroom's & Pasta

Note to self; must make more sauce next time!

Jacket Potato

There really is potato under that mountain of cheese.
My name is Yara and i'm a cheese monster.

TIP: use spare leftover's for topping's!

Broccoli Cheese Spaghetti

(much more tastier than what it looks like! I over boiled my broccoli, doh!)

And the last but not least, my favourite:

Italian Chicken & Spinach Noodle's

Ingredient's:
Fine egg noodle's - one nest
Baby spinach - half a bag (100g i believe)
Rock salt
Italian Seasoning
Lemon (to clean and season chicken)
2 garlic cloves
Lemon Pepper

Method
Dice chicken breast

Add 2 garlic cloves to olive oil, season chicken

seal chicken pieces

stir, when almost cooked through

(MISSING PHOTO) ADD SPINACH

Once wilted, add noodles
add boling water and 1 chicken stock cube

simmer for 5 mins or once noodles are cooked

Serve!

I hope you enjoyed, and let me know what your favourite dishes for one are, as I love to try new thing's when cooking.
Bon Appetit!

FebPhoto's ~ week 2

2012-02-17T19:12:00.002Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Mmm, Malteser's
Kitty checking out how to make his new activity centre
King of the castle!
Trying out this eye cream from Superdrug, it's Vegan and work's so well!
Kufta for dinner!
It finally arrived, i ove it!
Fish & chip's treat, delicious!

All image's are captured on either my Canon Ixus 860IS or my HTC Sensation XL.

Techie Tuesday #1 - DIY Touchscreen Glove's

2012-02-14T17:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Have you ever been out shopping in a busy city, when it's really cold, carrying five bag's, your headscarf flying everywhere and have your phone ring?? Annoying?! Oh yes! It's especially so when you have a lovely modern smartphone with a touch screen! Juggle shopping bag's, open hand bag (whilst keeping an eye out for any dodgey character's!) take gloves off and answer phone...or not, because you were too slow after all that fuss!

To save yourself from all that some people invented "touchscreen gloves". Many of them are not all that fashionable whatsoever and charge you silly price's to save the inconvenice.

However in this issue of "Techie Muslimah" I have found a way to beat them!

You can use your favourite designer pair of glove's, wooly one's or even your modesty glove's which many sister's wear so you don't have to uncover in public.

How?

A quick and simple DIY!

All you need is a needle and some conductive thread. You may have some in your garage at home, if not it's pretty cheap at 99p (free P+P) for 1 metre on ebay! You could even do your husband's or teenage kid's whilst you're at it, so they never miss your call again.

Many glove's will have a seem at the very tip of the finger. Simply thread it in and out a few time's leaving about 1cm, loose inside. This part will need to reach your finger in order for it to work. I recommend this way if your glove's are quite expensive, as you can alway's remove the thread without leaving any hole's. Otherwise, thread in and out of the area where the centre of your finger print would be. Remember to tie off your end's so it doesn't come loose and you're done.

Voila!
You have some 'new', modern, techie glove's of your choice, all for 99p!

Remember to FOLLOW for more techie blog post's including the best Islamic app's on the market!

Modest Fashion Monday - £5 Maxi Skirts!

2012-02-13T17:22:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I thought i'd post something new this week. I'm generally browsing the internet and find little deals or sales every now and again. I tend to post them onto facebook or twitter for others to benefit from, even if i dont buy them myself, sharing is caring, right?? Although today I decided to share them in a blog. Who know's, maybe this will become a regular thing? I'm thinking of a different theme each week or sometimes a mixture of item's.

I'm always on the look out for a bargain or two, and this week didn't let me down. Even if it's not particularly the right weather for a skirt, you can always save it for the hotter month's to come!

Five fabulous find's for a fiver!
(I do love a bit of alliteration ;)

Shirred Maxi Skirt
Available in Plum, white and fuchsia, sizes ranging from UK 10-16.

Dipped Hem Maxi Skirt

TIP: If like me you are quite tall, for extra modesty you can wear opaque tight's or knee high boot's underneath.

Rose Embellished Chiffon Maxi Dress
Available in black or blue
...there are more maxi dresses available here too!

Long length Knit Dipped Hem Cardigan

Ali Baba Trousers
...in over 10 colour's!
They look very comfortable, and the waistband would be ideal for pregnant Muslimah's.

Of course they aren't entirely modest on their own but they are key piece's for you to build a modest outfit for the fashionable Muslimah, inshallah. Always have the right intention when dressing and you will feel alot better for it whilst you're out and about.

Let me know if you'd like to see more post's like these in the future!

Peace.

Where was the strangest place you prayed?

2012-02-11T12:00:00.076Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I wouldn't call them strange but the only other places which I have prayed at, other than my home, friends and families homes are a mosque in Amman, Jordan and above an Islamic bookshop in Rusholme, Manchester. When I was in Jordan, it was my first experience of performing salah in a masjid. It was a little odd at first as i'm used to praying alone or with my husband infront of me, so when the lines tightened I felt a little squashed. However i tried to put that out of my mind and focus as we were all there for one reason, to pray to Allah subhana wa ta'la. Such a wonder experience, especially when the "ameen" echoes in the sister's room. Mashallah.

The time in Rusholme was due to too much shopping! Subhanallah :) It was my first time stepping into any islamic shop so I was in awe. Lot's of book's just waiting to be read and below that floor they had racks or jilbabs and hijabs. "World of Islam" is the name of the shop on Wilmslow Rd. The shop where I bought my first abaya, jilbab and square scarf alhamdulilah. Although within the fun of it all, trying on different style's of jilbab's time was flying by and the gentleman informed us it was Asr and offered to let us pray in their office upstair's mashallah. It alway's brings a smile to my face when I remember this event. As a new revert it really did warm my heart. Very different to my life before, because there aren't many people who would let you in their office, but that's Muslim's for you, very giving. I remember trying to awkwardly have wudu, then realising there wasn't a towel (a few years later i read that its better to not use one as the wudu experience is more refreshing, maybe that was the reason?). So i had wet sleeve's and whilst moving into different position's of a rakat i was trying not to knock a stack of islamic children's game's over. It was quite funny thinking about it now. All i can say is that the owner's of the shop were very generous and pure. May Allah reward them and keep them in business with halal income for many year's to come, Ameen. Also, make sure you visit their shop when you are next in the area, it's like Aladdin's cave for Muslim's, or at least for me it was, hehe.

I haven't prayed on a beach, up a cliff or underwater but those were two very meaningful experience's to me. On a different trip to Manchester I saw a brother praying on the grass around the corner from Piccadily station. On his own. In Manchester! Subhanallah, such iman is what we all need to strive for. I would have been scared to do that as there are alot of 'character's' about, but mashallah he must have thought "it's time for salah. I'm praying!" :D

These are some reason's why I just love Islam!! Allah akbar.

Here is a video clip about Salah and when it's time to pray, beautiful thing's can happen.
Watch it until the end. ;)

Subhanallah.

Don't forget to share your experience of the 'strangest' or most meaningful place you have prayed in, in the comment's below, i'd love to hear them!!

What Kind Of Shopper Are You?

2012-02-11T11:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيمIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Source

After reading Mama Mona's blog, I decided to answer this tag question and put the same to all my reader's.

Here is the scenario:

You walk into the store and you see a scarf or dress in multiple colors. Which color do you choose and why? You can choose based on 3 motivations:

I choose because I love the colour!
I choose because this particular color looks good on me!
I choose because this color is in season now and is really trendy!

I'd say 2, 1, and then 3.

The main reason is because you can love a colour but it may look hideous, granny-fied or just wash you out. You could love a colour but need to accept that some are better suited for clothe's and some are better for tablecloth's ; ) That's why you will generally find me wearing blue, brown and purple hijab's, as they work best on me, rather than beige, yellow and white.

Link back to me at: http://muslimahsmusings.blogspot.com/ and leave a comment below to say you've done it and I can check it out, inshallah!
Copy and paste the scenario and the option's
Give your answer and explain!
Tag 3 to 12 of your most favorite bloggers with the same scenario
Don't forget to write out the rules so they know how to do it!

I will tag:

Everyone who enjoy's my blog!

Go, go, go!

20 Reason's Why I Love Jordan

2012-02-10T08:55:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Here are the thing's which I love about Jordan and what make's each time better than the last. Family, friend's, fun and sun and everything else in between.

Roman Theatre in Al Balad, Amman - Image is my own
1. Muslim Country - I can me a Muslim, M.U.S.L.I.M. I can relax, I am me. I am happy. I don't fell an outcast. Some people may stare at me because they can tell i'm a an English girl but I prefer that over the racial hate stare's anyday.

2. The Athan (Muslim's call to prayer) - It's the "real McCoy", no app's or athan clock's going off at silly time's. It happen's 5 time's a day, on time, every day. It's beautiful to wake up to in the morning's and it's just an amazing sound for the soul, Muslim or not.

3. Wearing hijab - It's so much safer to be wearing hijab and jilbab in Jordan. It's pretty much the norm and a breath of fresh air compared to some place's in UK.

4. Family and their hospitality - what can I say? Everyone was so welcoming mashallah. They can never do enough for you. Even with the language barrier between some family member's you know where their heart is and love need's no language (corny, but true!)

5. Falafel & Shwarma 24/7 - *big grin* need I say more??! Apart from the fact a huuge falafal sandwich with salad and fries is about 50p - bargain!

6. Cheap dry cleaning - Now this was a shocker for me, so I had to include it! My husband took his winter cashmere work coat and decided to get it dry cleaned. He come back and told me to guess how much they charged him. It cost just over £2. Less than £3 to clean his coat, mashallah! And a great job was done too. In the England or the US that would have cost a fortune. So, if you're travelling and you need something dry cleaned, it's worth taking that garment! ;)

7. Women in Mosque's - Women actually have their own area of a mosque, unlike the UK's mosque's where the men have a large hall and the women are left with the cleaning cupboard to squeeze into. Subhanallah.

8. Dial-a-hijama - Well, not quite. When I got my hijama done (I highly recommend it btw!!) it was done by my Mother in law's friend. We were so busy for that trip we had to cancel a few appointment's but she was lovely enough to come by one morning and do it the front lounge or 'saloon' as the Arab's say. She did a wonderful job. I just realised that I never blogged about it, inshallah i'll write my expereice to share with you.

9. Female hair salon - Ohh yeaah!! I know one where I live in the UK. Just one. In Amman there are so many. Not forgetting that they have spa's and beauty salon's too, check out 'Zubaida' where my sister in law had her wedding hair and make up done! Bliss.

10. Shop's open late - No matter where you go, from Sweifieh to Jibal Hussein to Mecca Mall. You can shop late into the evening, unlike here if you need something the only place to go is the 24hr Tesco's. : /

11. SUNSHINE - Being in England you miss the sun. Alot.

12. Eating out - hassle free. - No need to worry about pork or alcohol, just EAT!! As an avid ingredient list scanner myself, this felt like a holiday on it's own. Not forgetting the range of food that is available, mashallah!

13.Eid Celebration's - I have heard so much about the Eid celebration's over there and can't wait to enjoy them one day. In the west Eid can easily pass by just like any other day. Booo!

14. Hijab's galore! - It's just that. No matter what a Muslimah could need. You can get it, in any quality, colour, size, variation, it's yours.

15. Repair anything and everything - One thing which I have noticed about Muslim Arab's is that they are not wasteful. I rmemeber my handbag zip got jammed and typical western me thought i'll have to leave it or just use it as storage in the house. My brother in law said he'd take it and give it his friend. He come back later on and that baby was fixed. Back from handbag heaven! Their range of repair's goes beyond zip's but that was my own personal example.

16. Tastier fruit & veg - I know recently Jordan have followed the west and used hormones etc but when I first went their produce was so tasty. I generally find that it is in a hotter country. It's much riper, sweeter, juicier and more fulfilling than good's from England.

17. Traditional bakery - I love authentic little business'. It's really hard to find them in England these day's. They bake you bread on a hot fire stone oven. You can choose to add extra's including egg, zatar - you name it. There is no taste like that hot fresh bread straight out of the oven. Gregg's has got nothing on them!

18. Olive oil - Palestinian's and their olive oil, like two pea's in a pod. My husband's family are originally Palestinian and i'm pretty sure most Arab's love the zaytoon (olive)! My mother in law get's it from a special farm and I found out that (because of it's quality and price) some people can't afford to pay it in full so they actually get a barrel of olive oil on a payment plan. Subhanallah. Like how someone can get a DFS sofa on installment, they choose to get the finest, tastiest olive oil.

19. Family and Friend's - everyone is very close, and generally some people will be named as a particular family member but they aren't actually family. There's a real bond between everyone. They all want to help you out too. Therefore if you need anything done there's alway's this guy's friend's uncle who can help, hehe. The phrase "it's not what you know, it's who you know" is very apt with Arab's.

20. Lot's to do - There's lots to do in Amman, but if you wanted to see more of Jordan all you need to do is book a trip with JET (Jordanian Coach service, similar to National Express and the like) Option's include; Aqaba (great for sailing, fishing and shopping), Petra (one of the wonder's of the world), the Dead sea (another wonder of the world)...Jordan border's so many other countrie's too so you can easily holiday to them if preferred.

Petra - Image is my own
Let me know if you have ever been to Jordan and let me know what you think in the comment's below. : )Peace.

12 Things Happy People Do Differently

2012-02-09T12:00:00.004Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Is there anybody who doesn't like to feel happiness?

Image Source

12 Things Happy People Do Differently

Studies conducted by positivity psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky point to 12 things happy people do differently to increase their levels of happiness. These are things that we can start doing today to feel the effects of more happiness in our lives. (Check out her book The How of Happiness.)

I want to honor and discuss each of these 12 points, because no matter what part of life’s path we’re currently traveling on, these ‘happiness habits’ will always be applicable.

1. Express gratitude. – When you appreciate what you have, what you have appreciates in value. Kinda cool right? So basically, being grateful for the goodness that is already evident in your life will bring you a deeper sense of happiness. And that’s without having to go out and buy anything. It makes sense. We’re gonna have a hard time ever being happy if we aren’t thankful for what we already have.

2. Cultivate optimism. – Winners have the ability to manufacture their own optimism. No matter what the situation, the successful diva is the chick who will always find a way to put an optimistic spin on it. She knows failure only as an opportunity to grow and learn a new lesson from life. People who think optimistically see the world as a place packed with endless opportunities, especially in trying times.

3. Avoid over-thinking and social comparison. – Comparing yourself to someone else can be poisonous. If we’re somehow ‘better’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, it gives us an unhealthy sense of superiority. Our ego inflates – KABOOM – our inner Kanye West comes out! If we’re ‘worse’ than the person that we’re comparing ourselves to, we usually discredit the hard work that we’ve done and dismiss all the progress that we’ve made. What I’ve found is that the majority of the time this type of social comparison doesn’t stem from a healthy place. If you feel called to compare yourself to something, compare yourself to an older version of yourself.

4. Practice acts of kindness. – Performing an act of kindness releases serotonin in your brain. (Serotonin is a substance that has TREMENDOUS health benefits, including making us feel more blissful.) Selflessly helping someone is a super powerful way to feel good inside. What’s even cooler about this kindness kick is that not only will you feel better, but so will people watching the act of kindness. How extraordinary is that? Bystanders will be blessed with a release of serotonin just by watching what’s going on. A side note is that the job of most anti-depressants is to release more serotonin. Move over Pfizer, kindness is kicking ass and taking names.

5. Nurture social relationships. – The happiest people on the planet are the ones who have deep, meaningful relationships. Did you know studies show that people’s mortality rates are DOUBLED when they’re lonely? WHOA! There’s a warm fuzzy feeling that comes from having an active circle of good friends who you can share your experiences with. We feel connected and a part of something more meaningful than our lonesome existence.

6. Develop strategies for coping. – How you respond to the ‘craptastic’ moments is what shapes your character. Sometimes crap happens – it’s inevitable. Forrest Gump knows the deal. It can be hard to come up with creative solutions in the moment when manure is making its way up toward the fan. It helps to have healthy strategies for coping pre-rehearsed, on-call, and in your arsenal at your disposal.

7. Learn to forgive. – Harboring feelings of hatred is horrible for your well-being. You see, your mind doesn’t know the difference between past and present emotion. When you ‘hate’ someone, and you’re continuously thinking about it, those negative emotions are eating away at your immune system. You put yourself in a state of suckerism (technical term) and it stays with you throughout your day.

8. Increase flow experiences. – Flow is a state in which it feels like time stands still. It’s when you’re so focused on what you’re doing that you become one with the task. Action and awareness are merged. You’re not hungry, sleepy, or emotional. You’re just completely engaged in the activity that you’re doing. Nothing is distracting you or competing for your focus.

9. Savor life’s joys. – Deep happiness cannot exist without slowing down to enjoy the joy. It’s easy in a world of wild stimuli and omnipresent movement to forget to embrace life’s enjoyable experiences. When we neglect to appreciate, we rob the moment of its magic. It’s the simple things in life that can be the most rewarding if we remember to fully experience them.

10. Commit to your goals. – Being wholeheartedly dedicated to doing something comes fully-equipped with an ineffable force. Magical things start happening when we commit ourselves to doing whatever it takes to get somewhere. When you’re fully committed to doing something, you have no choice but to do that thing. Counter-intuitively, having no option – where you can’t change your mind – subconsciously makes humans happier because they know part of their purpose.

11. Practice spirituality. – When we practice spirituality or religion, we recognize that life is bigger than us. We surrender the silly idea that we are the mightiest thing ever. It enables us to connect to the source of all creation and embrace a connectedness with everything that exists. Some of the most accomplished people I know feel that they’re here doing work they’re “called to do.”

12. Take care of your body. – Taking care of your body is crucial to being the happiest person you can be. If you don’t have your physical energy in good shape, then your mental energy (your focus), your emotional energy (your feelings), and your spiritual energy (your purpose) will all be negatively affected. Did you know that studies conducted on people who were clinically depressed showed that consistent exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft? Not only that, but here’s the double whammy… Six months later, the people who participated in exercise were less likely to relapse because they had a higher sense of self-accomplishment and self-worth.

My Vogue Cover - Year I Was Born

2012-02-08T13:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Personally I find it interesting to know what was happening in my year of birth. It's strange how so many thing's have changed and how we can compare what life was like back then. You may have been on a website called 'whathappenedinmybirthyear.com' where you type in your birth year and you can read the highlight's which occured during that time. However, I did a little extra research.

Vogue Cover December 1988 with description:

Source: Vogue Archive
Compare that to a cover of today and they look like two different magazine's. The modesty level was far higher and check out the price compared to today! £2?!

Fisher Price's "Puffalump's" were the rage, and I still have mine!
It look's just like the one above, i'd take a photo but he's in storage :(

Sega Mega Drive
I remember playing Sonic the Hedgehog on my brother's a few year's later

1988 - Ericsson Hotline
"Pure 80s brilliance, everything from the neon orange details down to the font. With a weight of 4 kg this is exactly the type of phone that would have been used by executive types in the 80s."

Movies:

The top selling movie of my year was "Rain Man", a classic. Also, I only know this by shear fandom of the movie but "BIG" with Tom Hank's was also released then, another classic! Not forgetting "Dirty Dancing", triple YAY!
Other's included: Good Morning Vietnam, Coming to America, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Twins, The Accused, Die Hard and Fatal Attraction.

I was curious if i could find more random but appealing thing's for my year, 1988.

A good year for Music:

Bad Medicine - Bon Jovi
Hungry Eye's - Eric Carmen
Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
Heaven Is a Place On Earth - Belinda Carlisle
Man In the Mirror - Michael Jackson
Where Do Broken Hearts Go - Whitney Houston
Desire - U2
The Way You Make Me Feel - Michael Jackson
Is This Love - Whitesnake
(I really like all of those song's too! Coincidence?!)

and the best...Sweet child o mine - Guns n Roses
(You're Welcome!)

and the worst...Never Gonna Give You Up - Rick Astley
(I'm sorry!)

The song which was #1 on the day I was born was Cliff Richard's "Mistletoe and Wine", gah! The joy's of being a "xmas baby" hey?

Random:

-It was the year of the Dragon for the Chinese
-1988 held both winter and summer olympic's
-Wimbeldon won the FA cup final, against Liverpool(!)
-The book which was top of the New York Time's best seller list was "The Sands of Time" by Sidney Sheldon
-Children's book "Matilda" written by Roald Dahl was published
-The first year people wore red noses to raise money for charity in UK.
-"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle's" was a regular Saturday morning cartoon.
-Salman Rushdie published his Satanic Verses to much controversy
-Enzo Ferrari founder of the Italian automobile manufacturer Ferrari, dies at 90
-Celine Dion won the Eurovision for Switzerland
-Ronald Reagan was President
-Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister
-..and the Queen, was still the Queen!

So, what happened during the year you were born?

My Project 365: FebPhoto's ~ Week 1

2012-02-07T12:00:00.020Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

If you haven't heard of Project 365, it's basically a fun photography project where you take a photo of yourself everyday for a whole year. I think it's really fun and after viewing other people's completed project's of past year's put into video form, it is really effective. If you're still a little curious, you can find lot's on youtube. It can also be titled "P.E.D" (Photo Every Day).

In a little twist I didn't want to photograph myself because 1) I would never be able to get the same angle for every photo and 2) I don't upload my photo's to the public. For my (now belated, I missed the whole month of Jan') project I will be taking photo's of random item's, food (a think you may see alot of food :) ), and event's on the thing's which happened that day. It would be nice to look back at the end of the year to be appreciative of the blessing's that passed my way. Have you heard that quote that goes "alway's appreciate the little moment's, as you could be looking back and realise those were the biggest moment's in life"?

This is week 1, i didn't want to post a seperate blog for each individual photo as that can be a little boring, so I will upload weekly, inshallah.

1. Camera browsing, i don't think it will become 'shopping' for a while. I can dream for now.
2. My first ever Krispy Kreme. I devoured it FYI. It would be rude not to!
3. As I was shutting my laptop down, a skype conversation with my hub mustn't have closed correctly so it gave me this message, hehe!
4. #UKSNOW!
5. Childhood in a bag! Mmm rhubarb and custard.
6. Husband's breakfast: Halloumi cheese & egg's on toast w/ houmus and olive's
7. Bath time for kitty! He wasn't amused.

All image's are captured on either my Canon Ixus 860IS or my HTC Sensation XL.

What's NEW On This Muslimah's Blog!

2012-02-06T12:00:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

This past week I have been working on sprucing up my blog. A spring clean for "A Muslimah's Musing's". What do you think? I have been looking at it for far too long so a reader's thought's would be appreciated. Here is a quick recap of what I love and left, as well as a few blogging tip's thrown in for good measure!

Out with the old:

- Pre-made Layout. Although it's pretty, it just restrained my creativity on my blog and because the coding was already set I had no clue where to start even if I wanted to adjust one tiny thing. They are good for beginner blogger's but once you remove your stabiliser's and want to run free, DIY will be your best option! It's out of here!
- Random Widget's/Gadget's. These were based in the sidebar, but because I wanted a more simplistic layout, those have been moved (some, not all) into some of the tab's at the top of the blog (more about those later). Not forgetting that they can sometimes delay the loading of the blog page for my lovely reader's, and I wasn't having that for any longer. If your blog take's it's sweet time to load, have a look through your's to see what is necessary and more importantly - what's not!

In with the new:

- New banner/Title. Let me know what you think in the comment's below. If you are not sure why I have an addiction to butterflies be sure to 'follow' this blog and check back for a later post explaining the link and meaning of them to me.
- Useful tab's. Set at the top of the page, below the banner, now include's 'My Blog Award's' and other useful link's! Very handy!
- Threaded comment's. Now you will be able to see if I replied to your comment personally, which work's so much better, well done blogger!
- Organised labels. I originally thought they were to be used as 'tags' (if you use 'weheartit' or 'tumblr' you will know what I mean!) so that was a loong, loong, loong night erasing the original's and adding brand spanking new one's. Dear Blogger, you need a new way to edit label's! Sincerly, a sleepless night.
- Share button's! Like one of my post's? You can now share it with your friend's much easily via facebook, twitter and more! Find them at the end of each post.
- Signature. I have used a mini intro for a while but never stepped up to a signature but had a little think and I thought i'd try it out, to help 'officially' end a piece.
- Popular Post's. These are post's that have had the most view's, which don't alway's coinside with what I feel are my best article's ;) They are based in the side bar.

On the way I picked up a few extra tip's and trick's so it wasn't all bad. I'm still having a little trouble with adding uber large image's to my post's though. I upload them with the blogger uploader and end up having to change the height and width which can sometime's blur the image, not a look i'm going for.

The search goe's on! If you can help, then please share your knowledge. ^_^

This is what I use, is this the old fashioned way?!
Help!

Viva la Diva - My Coldplay favourite's!

2012-02-05T10:00:00.079Z

Before I begin, i'd like to point out that there are many different view's on music in Islam. You don't have to read/listen to this blog, but if you do then please enjoy.

Some of my older post's included favourite Coldplay song's and I said that I would write a post on some of my favourite's for those interested in listening to some of their best song's.
So, let's get straight to it!

Shiver
For me, this. is. Coldplay! Young raw British talent and such catchy guitar riff's. An oldie but goodie!

A Message
just listen.

Viva La Vida
Iconic violin intro, who can forget this song? Used in many advertisement promotion's and inspiring video's worldwide, nearly 100 million view's on youtube to date, Viva la vida was a hit. You cannot not listen to it and come away in a worse mood than what you started with, and that is why I love Coldplay.

Talk
Although their new work is good, nothing beat's their older stuff. I can't believe more people haven't heard this song before. I can listen to this song on repeat, for day's! What can I say, their music make's me happy!

God Put A Smile Upon Your Face
You have to listen to it!

Lost
This is one beautiful moving piece. Coldplay are the one's who can translate emotion, meaning, and passion and still be successful today!

In My Place
A classic, pure and simple.

Paradise
Magical! My favourite part is where the elephant hold's onto the bar with his trunk whilst riding the Tube xD One of their best videos to date. Need I say more?! It's the 2011 "Clock's" which is also ah-mazing!

Don't Panic
Mistaken for the title of "beautiful world" this song is very mellow and just an all round lovely reminder. It's probably their most underrated song!

Yellow
L.o.v.e the lyric's, and the fact that my hub and I will sometime's sing this to each other *corny alert* ^__^. I have also got my hub hooked on Coldplay too, it just had to be done.

Every Teardrop Is A Waterfall
Their first release after what felt like for-ever. Going through a rough time, listening to it meant alot.
"i'd rather be a comma than a full stop...i'm in the gap between the two trapeze's..."
Live at Glastonbury.

And finally:

Fix You
The ultimate Coldplay classic. I believe this relate's to most people, has been the back track to alot of memories and experiences; happy and sad. No matter where you live i'm pretty certain you must have heard this song... if not, ENJOY!
(I have included the lyric video for a better understanding at how truely amazing this song is, you can find the official video on youtube here)

I love the majority of their song's but I cannot list them all : ) I don't agree with the one with Rhianna, what were they thinking?! Sorry Coldplay, but no, big mistake, you don't her.
Coldplay are one band i'd love to see live. I don't think i'd want to see anyone else play more than I do Coldplay.
I was so disappointed that all ticket's for their arena 2012 tour sold out within minute's and tout's were selling them on ebay for hundred's of pound's. Joke! I'm sure there's a better way at going about it to save tout's abusing fan's, for all show's not just a Coldplay concert. I may look into the outdoor arena tour, even though i'm not fond of rubbing up against smelly strangers, there maybe a seat somewhere! (No moshing for me, thank you!) because even just watching them live on TV is mind blowing, I couldn't imagine what it'd be like in person. I remember watching them perform on a chat show in the US via their website and the audience just didn't comprehend what they were witnessing, shame on them. Shame on them.

P.S: I need a bag full of that butterfly confetti they use at their show's, as you all know of my love of Butterflie's!

Is the Dunya your biggest concern?

2012-01-30T12:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tell me, What will benefit you more in the grave:

~ Applying make-up to look good for stranger’s in public whilst out with friend’s or pleasing Allah SWT by washing your face for wudu to complete your salah on time?

~ Wasting time aimlessly or giving basic dawah?

~ Working a job which include’s unliked thing’s by Allah SWT or giving it up so you are able to live a halal life with trust in Allah that you will receive something better from him?

~ Judging other’s fault’s publicly or kindly helping them correct a mistake in private?

~ Spending your hard earned saved cash on a world cruise or completing 1 of the 5 pillar’s of Islam by going on Hajj?

~ Removing your hijab for a job interview or remain wearing it because you were created to please Allah SWT, not the work place?

~ Wasting food for a silly trend (youtube videos included!) or putting it to good use in a recipe to donate food to a charity/soup kitchen or even a neighbour?

~ Using your God given talent on haram or using it to better the world we live in in an islamic organisation?

~ Making excuse’s to make the haram halal or putting all that effort into actually doing the correct halal action’s to please Allah SWT, your creator?!

This life is very short. Of course it’s not easy! Was anything worth getting (i.e. Jannah, in this case) ever easy?! If the ummah put more effort into pleasing ALLAH SUBHANA WA TALA rather than our fellow being’s and THINK of where we will eventually end we would be much stronger, happier people!

Remember that once you are in your grave, that time will exceed your life time (think of those who already passed away), the exam is over, everyone will have left you, there’s no extra time to get a few extra deed’s in, no one can protect you, all those people you tried to inpress won’t remember you, and you will be left there saying “if only I had done X Y Z”…” if ONLY i had put Allah SWT over all else in the dunya” …do you want to be there full of regret's or there thinking "I did and give everything I could!"

Don’t be a loser, be a winner!

Lingerie Shopping, Saudi & La Senza

2012-01-28T17:00:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

It made me so happy to read this article. If you have travelled to the middle east you would have noticed that it is mostly men who are sales assistant's. It's all ok until you fancy shopping for lingerie or general clothe's for women. When visiting Jordan I alway's noticed it and it put me off from entering some shop's completely.

It can happen in Turkey and Tunisia too, so there's no doubt that it happen's in other largely populated Muslim countries. Sometime's the male owner's or worker's will just stand in the doorway waiting for customer's to enter. Again this is awkward because you don't want to have to squeeze past them or divert into their shop which will start an unwanted conversation. Then you may have them looking over your shoulder as you browse, then meddling with your intimate's as they bag them up(!)

It baffle's me why they haven't thought to do something about it sooner, as i'm sure it effect's their sale's.

In one way i do see where they are coming from, it's better for a man to be in a shop as it's a business where money is located so they are able to defend their business if the worst were to happen. I don't understand why they can't have a female sale's assistant if there's a mahrem in the back room. Plus, do you know any Arab men who would walk in a lingerie shop and buy something for their wife, on their own? Me neither!

Although this is common, it isn't the same for all retail store's. I know that in Amman, Jordan I had my hijab styled for a wedding by a hijab designer. The shop sold jilbab's, abaya's, hijab's, pins and all other type of accessories. She worked with another girl and an older gentlemen who may have been a family member. I was far more comfortable to go to her for my shopping need's than another shop with a man in his mid-20's.

As many women would agree, this is a great step forward for Saudi Arabia. Not only for shopping need's but for independence of women through out the middle east to be given the equality and right to work. Inshallah more companie's will follow suit in the near future.

Image credit to NYTimes
(click link above)

Staying on the subject of lingerie, I was so sad to see La Senza close down :( I could not fault their item's. From the underwear down to the pyjama's, they were great quality!
I first heard the news through a tweet of Theo Paphetis' (as you may know, he was an investor of them in the beginning). However if you are looking for a similar line he is involved in Boux Avenue. I haven't tried any of their product's yet, but i'm sure it won't be too long, as I love shopping for those girly thing's! I believe that it alway's make's you happier and more confident within yourself when you have gorgeous, well fitting item's on, no one can tell but you and it's alway's good to look fab in front of the man in your life!

Here are some of my -not too intimate to share on the internet- favourite's which caught my eye:

White Chiffon 3 votive candles set
£15.00

Renee jersey lounge palazzo pants
£20.00

Maggie jumper
£28.00 - SALE £14.00. They need to restock these!

You can shop online or at any of their store's. Let me know if you have tried any other their product's in the comment's below!

Under Construction & Big Photo's

2012-01-23T03:59:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Just a little head's up to say that if you visit within this month and early Feb, thing's maybe a little crazy. I hope to fix this blog layout to how I like it. You may have noticed a lull in posting and one reason behind that is because i just don't feel as inspired as before. I feel a new crisp, clean layout is what's in order, so watch this space!

Also I am on the hunt to find out how I can add really large beautiful image's to my post's. At the moment I feel i am restricted to the standard blogger uploader. The 'large' option just isn't cutting it any more

Doe's this work... ?

Just to compare, here is the same image in 'large' under the blogger restriction's...

Thank's for reading, will be back up and running soon, God willing : )

Salam!

Topshop, Sales & A Hijabi's Eye!

2012-01-02T01:00:00.002Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

January sale's have well and truly started. It seem's that they start earlier and earlier every year, which i believe is thanks to the infamous NEXT boxing day sale which starts at the crack of dawn!

I haven't had a chance to go into town and browse what's on offer so i decided to look online. It's generally something that i do to find new bargain's, style's, blog's and fashion's.

When scrolling through the many page's of sale item's, I stumbled on this item from Topshop.

As a Muslimah, I believe we are all trained in a particular way to seek out modest garment's. We never take this training but it is something of a gift. So as I scrolled down the page's there was a mini 'red alert' situation going on in my head! Long sleeves? check. Loose fitting? check. Long length down to the feet? check. No ghastly tacky design? check. There it was, a jilbab!

PREMIUM CASHMERE MAXI COAT

click image to enlarge

In Topshop?! Yes!
At quite a decent price, may I add. You will find great quality jilbab's are around that price mark or more. It is on sale for 50 GBP, reduced from 185 GBP which mean's it's nearly a quarter of the RRP!

Bargain Price's + Modest design's in mainsteam fashion = one happy hijabi!

Let me know if you have found any bargain's in the sales via the comment's below!

Not another 2012 post!?

2011-12-31T08:00:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

It's different, I promise!

The H+W at Home

2011-12-30T12:04:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

What did you do today?

2011-12-16T07:45:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

There is a nasheed, or religious song, by singer/songwriter Dawud Wharsby Ali who asks, “What did you do today? Were you kind to your mother, did you smile at your brother? What did you do today?” We need to reflect on our actions and ask ourselves before drifting off to sleep each night, “Did I make the world I live in a better place today?” During your waking hours we should remain vigilant of our words and actions and cognizant of the angels recording our every deed for the Day of Judgment.

If we can behave in a kind and compassionate way, half the battle to live an Islamic life has already been conquered.

New Boots...finally!

2011-12-15T07:35:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

A few post's ago focused on finding a good all round winter boot. Here is what I found!
From the good ol' trusted New Look : ) Yay!

Wear them up or down. They are very comfortable and I love them! I was prancing around and dancing in my lounge with excitment, before I wore them outside haha, but you didn't need to know that did you??
Before finding these lovelies, I broswed the Clark's sale and tried on the most weird boots. They looked fine but once I put my foot inside it felt as though it was twisting my foot round. Very bizarre! I like my ankle's so decided to carry on looking.

You know what they say, good thing's come to those who wait!

New Look

Accurate!

2011-12-04T11:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Even though i was in the top class for Maths all the way through school, I never actually got 'it'. I'm more of a creative person and the whole thought of equations is just horrible to me. Plus we don't actually need all that stuff in our daily lives anyway even if the teachers do like to tell you differently.

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 7

2011-12-03T10:00:00.020Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 7 - Out with friends
Shopping!! I'd wear this outfit to go food shopping with the husband, going to the sister's book club at a friend house, day trip shopping in Manchester, it's like an everyday type outfit. Dark jeans and jacket, with the cowl neck coming out over the coat. Smart, casual - simplistic! Me!

Bootleg Jeans - New look
Cowl neck jumper - H&M
Wool Coat - TKMAXX
FUgg boots - Primark
BOW zip bag - Shop in Sweifieh, Jordan
Purple Hijab - gift

And that is the end of HFW November 2011, it's been fun. I've loved looking at everyone's posts too alhamdulilah.

I Love HFW!

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 6

2011-12-02T10:00:00.008Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 6 - Date Night

Confession! This isn't actually what i'd wear/wore for a date night. I wore this to a wedding. I wanted to use this because I didn't have anything else. Sad I know. It's quite rare for us to go on a date night. It is something we really need to work on because it isn't like we have children that get in the way and no doubt when we do we will kick ourselves because we never went out when we could. However working long shift's doesn't always leave time to go out in the evening. Although I have had a word with hub to take me out, and soon! We go out with friend's sometimes but that just isn't the same as a romantic night out together. For outfit's which I would wear, you can check my polyvore for some insight (link below).

Butterfly Maxi Dress - Internacionale
long sleeve body top - primark
Gold necklace - gift
Floral hijab - Gift
Silver headband - primark

Love HFW

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 5 Wedding Gown Coverage

2011-12-01T10:00:00.037Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 5 - Formal Event's

Another blue hijab (with a satin border!!) - World of Islam, Manchester
Black jacket - Designer, TKMAXX
Black abaya underneath which just looks like you have a skirt on when you wear a closed jacket - Jordan

Sequin band abaya - Jordan
Hijab - Jordan
Gold bracelet - Jordan

BONUS: My Bridal outfit!

2 bridal lace hijabs - gifts from Jordan
Bolero jacket - New Look
Bridal arm sleeves - ebay
Wedding gown - Forever Yours

I hope these help, sorry they aren't as clear I had to use photos which I already had rather than taking photos for this particular project : ) I'm loving all your comment's so far mashallah! ^.^

Love HFW

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 4

2011-11-30T10:00:00.049Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 4 - Holiday Destination's
Some outfit's which I have worn on past holidays.

Trinidad
Long sleeve Blue Tunic - Tesco
Wide leg grey Trouser/Jeans - New Look
Blue Square hijab - World of Islam, Manchester
NOTE: Turple flowers in my husband's Auntie's garden were used in my wedding bouquet, which you may see tomorrow!! ; )

Jordan
My go-to Al amirah hijab
Jilbab - Jordan
Wide Leg jeans - A random designer from ebay

Same as above

My go-to al amirah hijab (I'm actually wearing it right now! lol, it's the best!)
Denim Jilbab - Sajeda Jilbab shop, Jordan

England
Jeans - New Look
Button tinuc - H&M
Long sleeve top - Shop, Jordan
My go-to al amirah
cross body bag - peacocks/matalan... not sure!

Mmm, yes, if you don't know by now I like blue ^__^

Love HFW

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Thinking of Honeschooling? My thoughts...

2011-11-29T19:19:00.009Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

This blog post comes to you from a conversation I was having with a sister earlier. She shared this particular article on twitter and after I had read it, it couldn't help but trigger my passion and admiration of parent's who choose to home school. Why? because then our children wouldn't have to face such x-rated subjects when they are as little as 8 years old(!). Call me old fashioned but what innocence would a child have after watching such 'educational' video? Why do they even need to know about the content of the video at such age? Shouldn't parent's be the ones who educate their children on such private matters? As a child care practitioner I simply wouldn't allow that to happen in my classroom. Children are simply growing up too early these days, there's nothing wrong with letting them grow in their own time. If we are shoving this kind of material at them from 8 year's old why is that people are surprised that the teenage pregnancy rate is flying up the chart? My niece has just turned 7 years old and I could not imagine a teacher showing her this sort of perversion in just a year's time. The thing that is shocking is that people are surprised at the out burst that people have against it, calling us 'prude'. Sorry, but I was under the impression that streaming a video borderline pornography would land you in jail, now they say the opposite and sugar coat it like it's nothing.

As parent's, you don't get a say about what is put into the curriculum at school. Some setting's may send a letter home for parents permission to show their child a sexual education video/class but that method is vulnerable as anyone can take a pen to paper to sign the consent slip. You cannot control what goes on in classroom's, one teacher with an average of 20 pupils is impossible to give each child the attention he/she needs.

Apart from public school's, there is also the option of private schools and for myself and friend's; islamic school's. This may seem like a better choice at first glance however there are many factors which can still effect your child's development. For example, fellow children in the school, on the playground. Children learn from their fellow classmates aswell as their teacher. We have all been to school and watched the 'naughty child' play up when his friends are around, that may have even been you at one time. Children can become influenced by others around them, in a positive way, as well as negative. Not to mention those precious minutes slipping away whilst the teacher gives all of his/her attention to the disruptive child and leaving the remaining class members helpless losing their concentration and right to learn. This may give you a better insight, written by parent's who chose to home school their youngest after putting their first children through private school. Homeschool over Private school

During school year's it is known every child is bullied at one time or another. I won't go into the reason's why children decide to bully at this time but I will talk about the effects of this underrated topic. Bullying is the highest cause behind teenage suicide. A child who has been hurt, broken down to the point where they believe the best thing to do in life is to commit suicide so they no longer feel that pain. School's can do very little on bullying. Many form a 'buddy' system where by the older students look after the new year students and they have councillors. However children are scared to use these especially when there are threats against them or the bullying happens outside of school. What I personally find upsetting is that alot of children cannot confide in their parents or even feel confident enough to talk to them. I cannot imagine the anguish that parents go through knowing their son/daughter commited suicide. I have personally been in the middle of racial bullying, my best friend is Asian and her Father took her out of the school because it had got so bad. Even the police were involved at one point so i'm sure you can imagine how useful the high school was in dealing with the issue.

I don't wish for this to scare any parent's who have their children in state school's at the moment. I feel it's good for everyone to know the inside's and out's, to reach out to their children and give them the best childhood possible. Plus we have all been to school and know some of the thing's that can go on. It's just your decision to think about whether you would like your child to go through the same issue's or have a better chance at life through home schooling. It may not be for everyone but it is handy to look into it.

Why is homeschooling so different?
Children who are homeschooled are alot more confident within themselves, generally they achieve higher marks at a younger age as expected in state school's. They learn responsibility from a younger age. They have a stronger bond with their parent's too. If you are a Muslim then you are fulfilling your duty to educate your child, instead of letting complete stranger's (usually non Muslim's at that) teach them and take care of them for a large portion of their day. Remember that children belong to Allah SWT and are only 'loaned' to us as a test, wouldn't you want to take that test and pass with flying colours inshallah? Another point is that you are able to relate to your child regarding learning style. Do you remember when you had that one teacher that taught you a subject and you just didn't get it? then you changed class to a different teacher and picked up the same subject in an instant? well that's because they used different learning styles. Everyone learns differently, if you aren't learning that is not your (pupil) fault , it is the teacher's fault.

However it is not always possible to change classes/teachers at school so what happen's then? Your child may fall behind and begin to lose confidence because they don't understand. At home you can change that up at any time, plus you will have that one to one time to be able to understand each other better. The environment is much better as I mentioned the classroom and playground are areas where your child can learn and possibly pick up bad habits. You can take learning outside; it doesn't just have to be in a classroom. Use the park, library, fire station etc. Something else I wanted to cover was Religious Education class. Many parents which are religious and homeschool enjoy the fact that they can teach their child the correct way to believe and not have anything to prevent that. In school's especially in the west children are taught a number of thing's which contradict Islam. It is good for a child to know what other people believe, however it is not acceptable for our children to be in an activity where they have to go against their own belief's e.g. draw what you think God looks like (I actually found this activity in one of my old school books(!).

Different parent's will have different reason's and intentions, here is one example: Why Homeschool - top 10 reasons.

This video is by a fellow Muslimah, Zohra Sarwari, who chose to homeschool her 3 children. This may give more of an understanding from a different perspective:

Zohra has a homeschooling webpage which you may find handy: Super Charge Homeschooling. There is also an article on her website Why is Home Schooling The Best Choice? along with many other interesting read's.

Some of my readers may never have thought about the prospect of homeschooling but I hope that after reading this it may have triggered some thoughts about what you would like to do in the future inshallah. Remember that if your child is in school at the moment it isn't too late to start homeschooling. There are so many resources out there (book's, blog's and internet site's) as well as social groups (for parent's and children to enjoy), help and free activity resources at your local librarie's.

It will be alot of hard work, that is granted but if you look at what the outcome will be then that struggle and labour of love will all be worth it inshallah! Plus when did anything great in life come for free?? Not to mention the reward's for nurturing a beautiful child who will be an example of a Muslim for generation's to come.

Below are some links to Islamic homeschooling blog's and facebook page's. There is everything from how to get started, reason's why they homeschool, general life of a homeschooler blog post's, project's they do with their children and how to make them - you name it! There's even page's of their own favourite homeschooler's so you can discover more blogger's than the one's that I have listed!

I hope you enjoy them and discover the world of home schooling or even find something new to use as an evening/weekend activity with your children.

Handy Homeschooling site's, blog links and facebook page's:
Peal's of Jannah
Handmade Beginnings
Old Muslim Woman in the shoe
Educating the Muslim Child
Muslim's Guide To The Well Trained Mind
Ummi's Circle
Successful Muslim Home schooling
Islamic Homeschooling On A Budget
Homeschooling Muslimah Mommies

Homeschool for Muslims
Habeebee Homeschooling
The Muslim Homeschooler

Is it just Mother's who homeschool?
My Father Homeschools too - Abi Homeschools too

Peace to all : )

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 3

2011-11-29T10:00:00.018Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 3 - Break the rules!

My rule of choice? DOUBLE DENIM.

This is always said to be a fashion faux pas, even though it did actually come into fashion a few months ago (fashion is a funny thing, isn't it?). To be honest, I never pay attention to the latest fashion trend, as I make my own fashion. Who said socks with sandals or open flats was bad? I am obeying Allah SWT, so I love it that i'm completely covered except hands and face alhamdulilah! I hope never to compromise by deen for fashion, inshallah.

This is actually one of my favourite outfit's that I wear. It's loose and long and just all round comfy! Plus these jeans are my absolute favourite!

Uber wide leg jeans - Warehouse
Tunic - NEXT
Turtle Neck - New Look
FUgg Boots - Primark
Square Hijab - gift

Love HFW

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 2

2011-11-28T10:00:00.020Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Day 2 - Hobby/Recreation

I don't do many outdoor activities but I do lots at home! Reading, sewing, cooking and ZUMBA! I'm usually in my pyjamas or sporty items ('sweats') when i'm lounging around the house, that is until my husband comes home and I have a quick change into something more attractive!

I use the Zumba Fitness game for PS3. I recommend it to everyone because you are free and comfortable in your own house to have a good wiggle! Plus it works a dream as you are totally sweaty afterwards (nice!).

Nike Air Bottoms - TKMAXX
NY Yankee's hoody - JD (worn for modesty, usually I wouldn't wear it when exercising)
NY tee - TKMAXX
Reebok Easy Tone's
My go-to Hijab - Al amirah (two piece)

Love HFW

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

Hijabi Fashion Week Nov 2011 - Day 1

2011-11-27T15:08:00.006Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

It's back again!

HFW November 2011. For seven days Hijabi's across the world will be taking part and posting up their interpretation of an outfit on a particular theme.

My intentions:
I am not the most high fashion hijabi in the world but i wanted to take part. One reason was to represent the average woman. We don't have an endless amount of clothes, we don't just look like we stepped off a runway, no fancy locations and I wear clothes that are me, affordable and which i am comfortable in. I don't need to point this out but I wear hijab first and foremost to obey my Rabb and for modesty. You can be a Muslimah and fashionable at the same time. I hope the picture's aren't too bad, i'm used to being behind the camera and i'm not exactly fond of self timer! Not to mention the lighting, gah! It's all for fun at the end of the day : )

Day 1 - Leaders in Hijab

For myself that would be a child care practitioner based in a Primary school.

Cardigan - Primark
Shirt - Peacocks (which makes me look pregnant, I shall be throwing that out! well, donating inshallah)
Wide leg Trousers - Primark
Bag - Gift
Hijab - hijabfashionshop.com
Shoes - black sequin flats which you can't see in the photo

Love HFW?

For more of my outfits that are modest, chic and unique, click my polyvore! ^_^

THINGS TO TELL OUR GRANDCHILDREN

2011-11-26T11:00:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I thought this was pretty accurate!

Click to enlarge

Non Hijabi Sisters & Body coverage

2011-11-25T11:00:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I recognise that many sisters have reasons as to why they do not wear the full Hijab - yet.
But this post is not to discuss the validity of those reasons.

So lets accept that for whatever reason - you do not wear a scarf on your head.

What about the rest of your body though?
Just because you don’t wear a scarf doesnt mean that you should abandon Islamic guidelines for dressing completely and totally.

Wearing leggings, skinny jeans, short skirts, short dresses, tights alone, half sleeves, low cut tops, doesn’t become okay just because you are missing one part of your Hijab.

Try and wear loose and long lengthed clothing.
If you at least cover from wrist to ankle with modest clothing then at least it’s something.

At least when you are ready to take the step of wearing the scarf as well then it won’t be such a huge transition for you.

By taking these steps now things won’t be as difficult when it comes down to covering your hair as well.

And at least you would be making some kind of step in the right direction towards complete Hijab.

The scarf alone is not Hijab.
The scarf and the rest of the clothing you use to cover yourself with eventually makes it up.

So by covering your body in the right way, you’re almost there

NOW that's what I call Nasheeds!I

2011-11-21T12:49:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Great for relaxing, studying, or even cleaning to! It includes some favourites such as: Sami Yusuf, Native Deen, Talib Al habib and many more! I found a forgotten favourite too - Ashiq Al Rasool's "Madinah". I dare you to listen to it without feeling happy afterwards!! Many of them have the happy factor but others are just fab reminders mashallah.

LISTEN

Let me know what you think, or recommend some of your favourites that aren't included in the comments below inshallah : )

Have a fab day!

3 Mistakes that should be avoided before Marriage

2011-11-20T11:30:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

For all my single ladies! ...and the odd borther who may have stumbled upon my blog!

Fly to Freedom

2011-11-19T04:56:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Freedom.
I've never liked to follow the crowd or 'fit in' or do something just because somebody else is doing it. Alhamdulilah, I have the willpower and confidence to be who I want to be. I never fear of what society will think of me because I know that I am free. I know that the only one who can judge me is Allah SWT. If you can focus, in this life, on the correct reasons for your existence then you will do nothing but fly.

An Islamic Home - Decor!

2011-11-12T11:00:00.001Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

There are many frames, ornaments and random items which you can use to decorate your home to give it an islamic touch. Many of my friends including myself choose to rent our properties so I wanted to share a great idea which is perfect for rented homes.

Islamic wall stickers!

I originally knew about the idea for other imagery and phrases but only found out about islamic ones today. My friend shared a photo on facebook of her sticker on one of her walls. You can choose any phrase, size, colour. You apply them to the wall and can peel them off if you move or decide to change your decor. No mess, fuss and absolutely no holes in the walls (which takes care of those kill joy estate agents).

EDIT: For more variety you can take a look at this site here: Irada Arts

Transition of a revert - Muslim Bilal

2011-11-11T20:46:00.000Z

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I woke up today pretty late. Had my usual breakfast and decided to see what was on TV whilst i was waking up :) Islam channel it was! The Nasheed Show to be exact and this is what I found (however on the Islam Channel it looked like he was performing at the GPU event or something similar but i found this on youtube)

It is now one of my favourite reversion stories i've ever heard mashallah (in poetic speech, not prose). Once he reverted his Mother was influenced by how her son was acting, researched the deen and reverted too. Allah Akbar!
It is well worth the listen as I know when some people look at the length of a video they are put off, but trust me on this one : ]

I couldn't make it to Jummah and listen to the khutbah but I stumbled across this inspiring piece, alhamdulilah.

I pray that your Jummah went well inshallah.

'Characteristics of the Righteous' UK Event

2011-10-08T00:47:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Asalamu alaikum,
I wanted to share this event for any sisters which are local or can travel to either Coventry Uni, Uni of Birmingham or Aston Uni.

Check the website for dates and times and more information!

Favourite Tunes of the week

2011-10-04T10:00:00.013+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Honestly, if you feel music is bad for you, then just skip this entire blog post. I understand. There are many schools of thought about music and Islam and I believe that it doesn't say music is haram in the Quran (please correct me if I am wrong). Also music has a big effect on me and only I know what is inside myself. I'm not bumping and grinding in a club or running around with blades in my hands, this is just my way of relaxing in my own little world after a stressful day. Everyone has their own thoughts and mind.
So please, no hating. Thanks!

Lowkey - One World ...it's always a favourite. No words necessary. He says it all.
Remember to check out Lowkey's new album "Soundtrack to the struggle"!

Al Green - Let's stay together. It has to be the best part of Pulp Fiction, during the bruce willis scene. It's just one smooth track and I am in love atm

Coldplay - Paradise. I am so gutted that I couldn't get tickets for their tour in December! I don't know what was up with ticketmaster but I couldn't get through to the pre-sale tickets or the general sale. I guess it was meant to be...well that's what i'm trying to tell myself anyway...my favourite coldplay songs will be in a future post for those who may not have heard much about them (tut tut! ;)

Train - drops of jupiter...it has to be one of those songs that everyone knows but doesn't realise it! : )

Nikka Costa - Everybody got their something... v.sassy! I found it through watching the film ''All about Steve'' with Sandra Bullock. If you haven't heard of her, don't be put off - try something new. Change can be good ^_^

Eric Clapton - Layla...it's funny because I liked the name 'layla' and was going to choose it as my Muslim name, after I reverted to Islam. Hub mentioned something which I can't quite remember now but he basically meant that the name was associated with something bad either here or in Jordan. Why did I want it at first? It's soft on the tongue to say. It's 2 syllables...and I like this song, duh! Has anyone seen ''Big Daddy'' where Buddy meets Layla and tells her "hey i like your song"? I thought that was cute...but I chose 'Yara' and found it a whole lot better as it suited me more alhamdulilah : )

Beauty Find: Visionary Soap Company

2011-10-03T10:00:00.026+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Visionary Soap Company

Visionary Soap is the UK’s leading fair trade body care company whose whole range carries the FAIRTRADE Mark. Our company has been entirely dedicated to fair trade since the business’ inception in May 2005. Our products consist of an organic body care range handcrafted in the UK and abroad using ingredients from producers in Palestine, India, Ghana, Nicaragua, The Dominican Republic, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and South Africa.

They are based in the UK and are vegan approved. Providing body butters, oils, balms and much more! They even provide products for gardeners.

An important and appealing factor about this company, on a personal level, is that their olive oil is bought from Palestine. Helping Palestinian's to continue and develop their business further. Natural ingredients for your body and ethical too, I am yet to see anything wrong with this company!

I can't wait to get my hands on their products to review them and share my thoughts with you all! As i'm sure they will be placed on my 'halal beauty products list'.

Shea Butter & Oatmeal Soap

You can check out their facebook page here

Finding the perfect boots

2011-10-02T10:00:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

What do you look for in a pair of boots? They are one of my favourite types of shoe and I always like to put more thought into it whilst buying a pair of boots. I'm looking for a great all round boot for winter
I was just reading the latest article on HijabTrendz which i'm subscribed to (I hope you are too!) and thought i'd make a little checklist of demands myself.

1. Leather
2. Great quality inc. Waterproof - i.e. puddle proof(!)
3. Brown - I have two pairs of black boots already
4. Wedge 2"-3"/flat - preferably wedge, definitely no heel
5. Feminine - no brogues or military style ones, i'll leave those for the men.
6. Wide/long enough so that trousers can be tucked in - versatile styles?
7. Trendy for many years to come
8. Rubber sole - or any other which has good grip and non 'clicky' sounds
9. Comfortable - of course!
10.Simplistic and chic

Inspiration:

Betty Jackson-Debenhams £60.00 from £75.00

John Lewis £112.50

New Look £79.99

It is shocking how the fashion of A/W 2011 has failed this year the choices are very far and few inbetween. I don't wish to pull off the whole butch look and I just cringe every time I see a brogue in the womens section (just because it's in 'fashion' doesn't mean that it suits you. People forget that too often). I did come close to a pair of 'perfect' boots but they weren't the right shade of brown. I want more of a chocolatey brown rather than a camel brown. Inshallah I find some soon as I don't want to be stuck in Ugg boots all winter (again!)

P.S: How much of a stupid idea are those boots with a peep toe???!! o.0 Practical went out of the window on that one! lol :)

Keep Calm annnnd....

2011-10-01T10:00:00.004+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

One of my favourite films, but I think you all know that by now ; )

Date for your diary: Eid Souk: London Oct 2011

2011-09-30T10:00:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

The Eid Souk will be the first of an annual weekend shopping festival prior to the celebration of Eid al Adha. This will be a theme based event recreating a Middle Eastern port market (souk) selling clothes, food, perfumes and arts & craft prior to the celebration of Eid

Friday 28th October 2011 - Sunday 30th October 2011

Rick Owens' Hijab on the Runway

2011-09-30T09:00:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Autumn/Winter 2011 fashion find: Rick Owens

Now that is a headscarf/hijab I could wear in winter!

I come across this designer whilst browsing my favourite fashion blogs and websites for leather jackets. I maybe late on this if you have seen this designer mentioned on one of the more official 'hijab fashion blogs' but I wanted to share my find anyway!

Many of his pieces are so hijabi friendly. It's a shame that they aren't very purse friendly... unless you happen to be a Princess in the UAE ; )

I love the length and how this skirt falls:

Ruched jersey maxi skirt - £410

And I am a fan of uber long sleeves, scrunched up a little as I find them so cosy.

Long-sleeved jersey dress - £295

As long as the skirt isn't hugging your figure too much, you'd just need to add a hijab to this outfit and you are good to go

Paneled leather jacket - £1,515

Summer-Autumn Transition Outfit

2011-09-29T00:32:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Summer - Autumn Hijabi outfit by modernmuslimah featuring cord jewelry

H M flare dress
£7.49 - hm.com

Dorothy Perkins floral pants
£34 - dorothyperkins.com

Moda In Pelle flat heels
£33 - mylabel.co.uk

Peace bag
$23 - tillys.com

H M cord jewelry
£2.99 - hm.com

Freebie alert!

2011-09-25T02:09:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I stumbled across a little freebie via facebook today. You know how I have to share these little things! It's a free ebook about successful relationships in accordance to The Quran and Sunnah

Don't fret single ladies, it focuses alot on the relationship with yourself first, then majorly on your connection with Allah SWT and then the assumptious marriage relationship. I am yet to read it in full but I am happy with it so far alhamdulilah. Very useful for all inshallah...and it's FREE!

Just visit their facebook page to get it!

Inspirational Blog Award

2011-09-04T11:00:00.011+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Yesterday I was rewarded with the Inspirational Blog Award by sister Foz from Muslim Mummies alhamdulilah. It is really sweet, so thank you! ^_^

The rules of the award are simple:

Copy and paste the award onto your site and copy the link of the person who gave you the award.
Then answer the tag questions and nominate any blogs you feel deserve it.

EIGHT EASY TAG QUESTIONS:

What makes you laugh, smile or giggle?
Simple pleasures: a day out with family, a child's laugh, antics of my cat...

What are your dreams for your future?
To be happy with the person who I will have become and to be the best Muslimah I can be inshallah

If you are to go to a cruise, where would it be and why?
Australia, i have never been and it's along way to travel so why not travel in style? ;)

How would you spend your vacation time and with whom?
With my husband sight seeing, relaxing on the beach, swimming, shopping, eating and discovering the lands.

If given a chance, what life would you choose? Your life now or your past?
Now alhamdulilah.

Is there something that you wished before when you were young but you didn’t get it?
I guess there was lots of things but Allah SWT is the best of planners : )

Have you been in a situation where you might have given up but still you chose to move on?
Yes, alhamdulilah. Too private to put here but those close to me will know exactly what I went throough.

Is their someone in your life who has been your source of strength and inspiration?
if it's 'someone' then it would be my husband mashallah, but the source of my strength is from Allah SWT.

<3

I will nominate my favourite inspirational Blogs in a different post later on. The reason being is that I have been out of the blogging loop for most of this year and it's unfair to name my usual fav's as there is so many other blog's out there worthy of a mention. So look out for that inshallah!

Peace.

Modest Fashion: ELENANY A/W 2011 Collection

2011-09-02T20:06:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I have just come across a little treat on facebook and had to blog asap! To know more please press play to view our sister's creative promo video. Displaying her latest collection of Modest clothes described "urban threads with an islamic twist" through stop motion film.
You will notice the subtle use of islamic icons on the garment's, if you are not familiar with Elenany already.
There is music so mute if preferred (when it started I thought it sampled "Rain on my Parade", but maybe that's just me?)

For more information please check out: ELENANY

My EID Wishlist

2011-08-30T04:51:00.003+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Here's a little hint for family and friends ;)

Quran - Colour coded w/ English Translation & Transliteration
British Seasonal Fruit & Veg Guide Mug
'Drop scones not bombs' eco shopping tote bag
Morrocan Oil
LUSH 'Very Berry' giftset
Carlton Air Rage FX-Ti PINK Badminton Racket
...and Italian lessons with the hub would be great if anyone knows any classes within North Staffordshire.

Rosie & Jim

2011-08-27T11:45:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Something happened earlier this morning. I stumbled across a picture of a coracle. Yes, a coracle. :) "What has that got to do with anything?" you ask. It was a little nostalgic moment for me because it reminded me of a children's show I used to enjoy (and still know the theme tune to!) called "Rosie & Jim". They were ragdolls who lived on a narrow boat in England. I remember that the man who steered the boat John went in a coracle hehe! That's how it links. It was a really good, educational children's show where they (I say they like they were people lol) would travel around England on the canals and stop off at different places, usually little factory type places that made boats or they showed you where wool comes from, other times they went in hot air balloons or to carnivals and things. I read that the show hadn't been shown since 2004, which is such a shame. I had the shows on VHS when I was little but they are long gone now. On Amazon one VHS is 13.99 :O I also remember my little brother having these really nicely made plushies of Rosie & Jim (look here) and he drew in Jim's drawing book too which was naughty. I really do hope they bring the show back, either a re-make or they will just have to have a dig and blow the dust off the old ones as to be quite honest - they beat the rubbish that's on these days! (and i'm not saying that in an old grouchy lady kind of way I know with being a child care practitioner and refusing to feed children iggle piggle, teletubbies and such like!)

I do think that children's tv has gone down the pan. One reason in which I don't like to use the two tv shows mentioned above is because children need to learn things from clear speech. For example if you say "hello", they child may grasp "e-oh" at first. It may sound familiar as that is the way 'teletubbies' say hello. So if a child mostly hears "e-ho" then he/she will attempt an even shorter version of that, at best they would say "e-oh" whhich is incorrect. Also it is known that there is a high increase of speech impediments and late talkers which saddens me. There are many parents who are guilty of not speaking or interacting with their children and just feed their minds with mush. I am going of subject slightly however if a child is going to see any tv show at all, please let it be a decent ones that they can learn and develop from. :)

Rain boot Garden

2011-08-18T01:20:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

If you follow my blog you may remember the "flower in a can" blog post not so long ago, if that wasn't quirky enough take a look at this!

Rain Boot Garden - mint, basil, strawberry or camomile.

I think it would be really cute for the 'bud'ding gardener.
Garden or not this would be a great addition to any home, stick it on the kitchen window sil if you have too. Now I need to find where they sell them in the UK as this site is for the states. *sigh*

Halal Scotch Eggs Recipe

2011-08-15T22:39:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Here's a recipe which I found on the facebook group "Ramadan Recipes". They may have been a favourite party snack for many reverts. Shop bought scotch eggs contain pork meat so here is an alternative in which you use halal chicken/beef/sheep mince instead:

{{From User: Moony Moody}}

Scotch Eggs recipe:
...I brought back to my table a dish I haven’t made for ages. Although they are called “Scotch eggs”, these super duper little hard-boiled eggs (wrapped in spiced minced meat, coated with breadcrumbs and deep fried) are not originally from Scotland. They were first made or invented in London. And here is the recipe to make about 8 – 10 eggs, according to egg size.

8 L eggs
1 Kg minced meat (better to use beef)
1 Large onion very finely chopped
Salt – Pepper – Nutmeg to taste
1 TB parsley finely chopped
Flour – Egg – Breadcrumbs for coating

Let’s get started :) Put enough water with 1 TB salt and some vinegar in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Gently place the eggs, so they do not break, and boil for 7 minutes. Drain and cool them under running water then remove the shells.
As the eggs cool down, let’s prepare the wrapping. Get the meat in a large bowl. Add the onions, parsley and spices, and mix all well. It’s better to use a food processor at this point to get all the stuff incorporated together. Otherwise, you have to make sure that your onions and parsley are VERY finely chopped and combined WELL with the meat. Divide the mixture into 8 balls large enough to wrap the eggs.

Let’s get cooking :) Get 3 dishes for the coating stuff. Season the flour and egg with a dash of salt and pepper. Bring the boiled eggs and meat mixture. Take 1 meat ball and flatten it like a patty. Get an egg and dust it well with flour then remove any excess. Put the egg in the middle of the meat and gather the meat corners to evenly wrap the egg. MAKE SURE THE MEAT IS ENOUGH TO WRAP THE EGG WELL WITHOUT THE NEED TO STRETCH IT; OTHERWISE IT WILL BREAK UP WHILE FRYING. Repeat the same steps till you’re done with all the eggs.
Frying time. Put enough vegetable oil in your pan or deep fryer and heat on medium till 180 C. Meanwhile get the egg balls, dust each lightly with flour, and roll in egg then in breadcrumbs to coat evenly. Shape to get the egg look. If you’re pan frying, make sure each side is well cooked. When done, remove and drain on paper towel.

Serving time :) When the eggs cool down, cut each in half and bend a parsley stem to dig in each half to make it look like a basket handle. Serve over a bed of parsley, lettuce and French fries for garnish.

The original recipe calls to use ANY sausage meat instead of minced, but I never did it this way. I like to use my own minced meat for health reasons :)
ENJOY and tell me your feedback if you’ll try this dish.

There are many other fab recipes shared by Muslims within the group - come join us all here: RAMADAN RECIPES

A Ramadan Refresher!

2011-07-28T11:48:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Really helpful and very informative mashallah. I know there are so so many ramadan blog posts going around but this needs to be seen to make sure you are on tops of things inshallah! :)

My Personal Ramadan Prep List

2011-07-20T12:00:00.011+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

It's not next Monday but the Monday after, inshallah (all depending on the moon sighting, do you think the ummah will get it right this year and we all start our fast on the correct day?? Allahu Alim)

Things I need to do so I am prepared for Ramadan:

-Write dua list
-Sort, pay, arrange bills/meetings before or after Ramadan- less stress!
-Write intentions for the blessed month
-Complete Ramadan menu
-Shopping list (most healthy and nutritious foods - don't forget the dates!)
-DO NOT over burden self
-Read 'amena's ramadan diary' and review
-BLOG star Ramadan/eid card craft activity
-Get zawji's present
-Arrange invites for family and friends
-Plan a better routine to enable more time for remembrance of Allah SWT
-Annual check of my salah with zawji to make sure my pronunciation is still correct
-BLOG advice for Ramadan prep -mind, body and soul.
-Discuss with zawji an idea for local mosque "FREE Date + Milk stand". Must get some dawah leaflets too if this is to go ahead inshallah!
-write personal duas for: beginning, during, on laylatul qadr and after Ramadan
-add more ramadan nasheeds to the playlist
-make decorations!

EXTRAS:
-Learn a new surah?
-Get a hard copy of 'the sealed nectar'?
-Print off 99 names of Allah SWT w/ meanings to learn during Ramadan

Inshallah khair

Flower in a Can

2011-07-19T23:17:00.000+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

This is something I stumbled across in one of my many nights of searching the web. I thought it was a little odd.

"Pop the top, add a bit of sunshine and
some water and in a short while you’ll
have grown yourself a pretty bouquet
of flowers in a can! Makes a great gift.
Dahlias, geraniums, impatiens, pansies,
sunflowers, petunias, marigolds & more.
Try all eight! Item approximately 3.5"

$14 found here along side alot of other quirky unique items!

A possible Ramadan gift maybe? for a beginner gardener? for a house with no/little garden area?

Ramadan 1432: Just 30 out of 365!

2011-07-16T11:31:00.003+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I keep hearing people moaning about how long fasting will be this year (re: UK timings)!

SubhanAllah. Yes, its going to be a bit tough, so it is important to eat foods that will give you the correct resistance throughout the working day. Further, you need to have iman and correct intentions to realise it is purely for the sake of Allah swt and you must understand, THERE WILL BE FOOD for you sitting on your table, unlike some people worldwide who are just having perhaps 1 meal (sometimes nothing at all) and are dying due to starvation. Prepare yourself mentally and realise, the month could be your chance for all your sins to be forgiven, who knows if you or I will make it till the next 15 days and who knows if this may be our last Ramadan!?
If you enter something with positivity, this will be the outcome. If you go into Ramadan with a negative attitude, then that is how you will feel.

Be grateful to Allah SWT, he only asks us to fast for 30 days out of 365! Audobillah.

There will be further blog posts to help prepare for Ramadan 1432 inshallah.

Subhanallah: How Daffodils can help Dementia

2011-07-15T14:00:00.004+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

From a personal point of view it is very emotional to witness within the family. I saw the latest show of "CountryFile" on BBC1 and thought i'd share this with you all. Subhanallah it just is incredible. Many are quick to gobble down man made prescription's believing they are the better option but never really take a look around and find natural remedies given to us by Allah SWT. Please watch.

BSL included.

P.S: I hope you are enjoying your Jummah inshallah :)

Halal Beauty Products: Ultimate List!

2011-07-14T10:33:00.008+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

NOTE: Please keep this handy blog post saved in your favourites or linked in your blog sidebar as it will be updated with new product review's inshallah.

I really feel that this post is long overdue. We all have our favourite brands of make up and skin care and such but do we ever check to see what is inside of them?

Many could ask; "Do we really have to go this far? We already have to check food labels so why do we have to check beauty product labels as well?"

To cut a long story short - we are not allowed to eat pork in Islam, this is a ruling of Allah SWT. Therefore why should be be rubbing these lotions full of pig by-product into our skin which we purify before salah? Personally, it doesn't make sense. I feel that we go about using these products blinded and because we have so many resources now we shouldn't need to be supporting these deceitful companies anymore and can now support the ones who use pure ingredients inshallah.
Please do not get confused and mistake this blog post as something which you could find from the "haram police". This is just my and many other Muslims views. Allah made us the only mammal who can think, listen, read, write and talk. It's about time we used our noggin and stopped being so lazy with the excuse of "it doesn't say that in The Quran".

Al-Quran is the best guide to all mankind however Allah SWT gave us a brain to use logic and to think outside the box with reason. You may wish to avoid some or all by-product ingredients, we all have different ethical values.

Another point to remember is that Allah does not allow animal cruelty. Therefore an animals welfare is far more superior than the workings of the latest mascara.

You may also like to watch this video about animal welfare in Islam which is inspired by our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) - don't worry there are no shocking pictures in it.

If you are curious to know why I used the above excuse as an example then please read on, if not just jump to the next paragraph inshallah :) I use "it doesn't say that in The Quran" as this is the response I got when I politely explained to a sister that M&Ms were not halal to eat due to their colouring (they contain E120 Cochineal which is a beetle, that is crushed to get the red dye from it making the red and oorange M&Ms - it's also in some red food colouring and marshmellows fyi). However I think she forgot to undertsand that Allah SWT only made the pure animals and meat allowed for us to eat. Is it just me or does anyone else see where I am coming from in this point? Just because it doesn't say it in black and white that M&Ms are not halal to eat doesn't mean that it isn't true. This is why I support people thinking outside of the box within reason, because Allah gave each of us a mind to think subhanallah.

Alot of this research has come together from me taking time out and digging with my own two hands! It is great how easy it is to get the information too. Many websites will be happy to reply to your questions through email, some already have those questions answered on their FAQ page, many have the full ingredient list available on their website under individual products. I recently had someone ask how to get ahold of this information as they were doing research, I hope that helped you a little.

Check your own bathroom cupboard, make-up bag or dresser and read the labels.

You maybe thinking "I've read the labels but most of it is gibberish!"
This is very true, many companies are not going to list an ingredient called "pig fat", therefore they use 'Glycerin' or 'Sodium Tallowate'.
NOTE: Glycerin can be taken from different animals or plants or vegetables - so before you disguard that product, double check to see which type of 'Glycerin' is used. If it is plant or vegetable then it is OK to use.

All you need to do is search for each ingredient online, it is worth it in the end trust me! Here is a useful list of animal products to start you off. You could just need to check out your favourite products, rather than the whole range if you don't want to :)

And if you need to know who test on animals and who do not and you can't find the info on the company website: PETA are here to help!

In 2009 there was a ban on animal testing in the EU for cosmetic ingredients, however that is only in the EU. Animal testing is still ongoing throughout the world. Our products come from large companies based all around where these rules do not apply. Not forgetting the possible loop holes that some companies may have found to continue testing on animals in the EU. Only Allah knows, but we can all do our bit inshallah!

HOT LINKS:
EWG Cosmetic's database
BeautyPedia
-Both site's enable you to read up on certain brand's and the ingredient's that they use, you'd be surprised at some of the thing's that hide beneath!

Which alcohols are permissable to use in cosmetics, if any?

Allah Most High says:
“O you who believe! Alcohol (khamr), gambling, dedication of stones, and divination by arrows are an abomination (impure) of Shaytan’s handiwork. So abstain from such (abomination) that you may prosper.” (al-An’am, 90)

Cetyl Alcohol - Halal
Cetyl alcohol is a long chain alcohol which is solid hence obviously not drinkabale nor does it cause intoxication if at all ingested. Therefore, it is halal to use in cosmetic products. It is also not absorbed through the skin when applied as a cream.

Cetearyl alcohol - Halal
In cosmetics and skincare Cetearyl Alcohol is not really an "alcohol" such as ethyl or rubbing alcohol, which would dry the skin, but is an emulsifying wax made by combining fatty alcohols derived from vegetable sources.

Ethyl Alcohol - Haram
Ethyl Alcohol is also used in many cosmetic agents both for men (Aftershave Lotion) and for female perfumes. Ethyl Alcohol is absorbed through the skin. It then passes through the flesh into the blood vessels and finally mixes with the blood and circulates throughout the body. Once in the blood it is as good as if one has ingested through the mouth. As a small quantity of any intoxicant is haram therefore, as mentioned earlier, all liquid cosmetic products containing Ethyl Alcohol are prohibited. Other names given to synthetic Ethyl Alcohol are, Ethanol, Methylated Spirits (contains 5 percent Methyl Alcohol and 95 percent Ethyl Alcohol). Products containing these ingredients therefore will also be prohibited.

More on Synthetic Alcohols

When I was doing this research I came across a question on a site asking if growing a date/grape tree was ok, because alcohol is prohibited and alcohol is made from those two fruits. This is where we need to use our heads. Just think for a second. Do we eat dates? yes. Do we eat grapes? Yes. Where do they grow? You know where i'm going with this but as along as your intention is not to grow a tree to produce alcohol you are fine. Islam is not a complicated religion!

I want to stress that these findings are for you to draw your own conclusions, whether you choose to use this information provided is up to you. You maybe someone who eats halal meat and will only consider some products wrong over other's. You maybe a Muslim vegetarian? It is up to you. I encourage you to do your own research also.

Remember that companies may change their ingredients whenever they want to so although this info is correct on date of publish, it wouldn't hurt to keep updated by checking them out every now and again. Also please leave a comment if I have made mistake or if you know of another company that we can all benefit from :)

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Halal Beauty Products:
The Ultimate List!
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BRANDED AS "HALAL or HALAL CERTIFIED"

Pure Halal Beauty
Cruelty free? Yes, inshallah
Good to know: The shop in England has a variety of products and brands. It's the first store of its kind in the United Kingdom and is the creation of 20 year old Rose Brown, daughter of UB40 drummer Jimmy Brown. The store is located on the 2nd Floor of the Pavilions Shopping Centre, London. Report from Dec 9th 2010. Skin care products for men and women, also including halal make up!
My thoughts: Fab! I hope I get to visit it one day. If anyone has visited this shop then please let me know! I wasn't aware of it until I was researching for this blog post. If you are like me and cannot make it to London I have linked their website above.
Contains alcohol? No, the site mentions that all products are halal certified

Hussana
Cruelty free? Yes, inshallah
Good to know: Halal certified, which will be hard to find on the more mainstream products, Baby skin care range, anyone can become a Hussana sales agent and earn commission for their work (similar to Avon).
My thoughts: Great initiative, as it is something which the market is lacking. We just need more Muslims to buy it rather than all the products with the nasties inside! I have a free sample of hand cream, I will let you know how it goes!
Contains alcohol? No

HAWAS Therapeutic
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Made in England. Looking at the very few ingredients it seems very pure, almost as though anyone could make it in their own ~~lab~~ bathroom, it's quite a breath of fresh air not to have to decipher the ingredients list. This natural cream contains beeswax, aloe vera & essential oils which can help prevent wrinkles and skin ageing, red blotches, spots, acne and saggy skin. Use twice daily. Other products available include black seed hair oil, black seed cellulite lotion and more.
My thoughts: I received this from The Islamic Establishment in Leicester. I am still yet to try it out. The only problem that I found was that there isn't a website for them (hawas) which is odd. All informoation provided is what is on the tub. If you have ever tried these products then please let me know! :)
Contains alcohol? No

Samina Make-up
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Halal approved make-up. Medium to low priced make-up.
My thoughts: Proffessional site, prices seem reasonable for the quality products. However if you are used to paying MAC prices there's no bother, you will actually save with them whilst giving your skin the best ingredients
Contains alcohol? No

The Alcohol Free Shop
Cruelty free? Yes, inshallah
Good to know: this site has lots of other alcohol free products but the page linked above share some halal certified brands such as Hussana and some others which we have not come across yet including: Saaf Organic and Tom's Of Maine
My thoughts: Look and ye shall find!
Contains alcohol? ~~what do you think?!~~ No

MAINSTREAM BRANDS

LUSH
Cruelty free? YES
Good to know: Fresh natural handmade products, FAIR TRADE, minimal packaging. If you purchase anything in the black tubs LUSH offer a great recycling scheme. If you take back 5 black tubs after you have finished with them, you will receive a FREE fresh face mask!
To find out more, watch the video below (Just skip 5:08 - 5:21 promoting their 'naked' products. We don't need to see their bums to know that they have good products)!
My thoughts: I *heart* LUSH. I enjoy their products so much. Some are a little pricey but you really get what you pay for! Have a browse and go in to ask questions - i have never met a grumpy lush member of staff yet! :)
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Lush Cosmetics - A Lush Life, We Believe

My Pure
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: All natural/organic ingredients. A wide variety including: baby care, make up and even pet care! Lots of choice you can even search by concern. If you click their contact page, you can request for a free sample!
My thoughts: I cannot wait to try them out!
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Dr Organic
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: all products are suitable for vegetarians. Ingredients include aloe vera, honey, pomegranate, and lots of other lovely things!
My thoughts: I saw a review on youtube by a fellow hijabi which got me searching for them. I would definetely try them in the future
Contains alcohol? varies - always check the label

Montagne Jeunesse (Face and Hair masks)
Cruelty free? YES
Good to know: All products are vegetarian certified however most are Suitable For Vegans, Gluten Free, Dairy Free with No Added Parabens
My thoughts: I have tried one face mask, it worked ok. I will try them again in the future inshallah. I hope to find more companies like this one who avoid all the nasties.
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Or you can DIY! Try this homemade avocado facemask
presented to you by one of my favourite online site's 'MyHalalKitchen'!

NIVEA Pure & Natural product range
Cruelty free? YES
Good to know: 95% of natural origin. They contain no parabens, silicones or artificial colorants. The Argan Oil we use is organic, as are our Burdock Fruit Oil, Jojoba Oil, Chamomile Oil and Aloe Vera Gel...Different ranges do actually contain animal by-products to read more, click the link to read the full email I received from NIVEA.
My thoughts: I am yet to try this range, I wanted to research it more before buying anything.
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

SIMPLE
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Predominantly free of animal derived ingredients, with the following exceptions. SIMPLE Pure Soap and Simple Exfoliating bar contain Sodium Tallowate (dead cooked carcuss fat). Beeswax is used in Simple Baby Zinc and Castor Oil Barrier Cream, Simple Sun F20 Lip Protector Stick and also Simple Therapy Nourishing Cream Cleanser. Hydroxypropyltrimonium Honey is used in Simple Rich Repair Shampoo and Conditioner. All other products are animal-free. Click the link for more info.
My thoughts: Disappointed about the soap, another one bites the dust! However the wipes are great and I have their moisturizing bath cream ready and waiting for my next bath!
Contains alcohol? No

The Body Shop
Cruelty Free? Yes
Good to know: Lots of natural products, Ethical trade, some bottle's are made from 100% recycled plastic, support many campaigns e.g. stop HIV and sex trafficking. Awarded RSPCA's good business award twice.
My thoughts: A good alternative, they are like a less fun version of LUSH (that may hurt as I know they have history together!). However I haven't tried many of their products to know them enough. Although I would try some in the future. I am a little curious about their link with L'oreal though, as they do test on animals and I wonder why they would associate with a company that do such a thing after building up their reputation.
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Jergens
Cruelty Free? Yes
Good to know: 95% natural ingredients! Click the link to see what they said about their ingredients
My thoughts: I use the skin firming moisturiser and it smells really nice (pomegranate!). I would try more of the products
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Superdrug (own brand)
Cruelty Free? Yes
Good to know: Products are usually cheaper than name brands. I was unable to find ingredients for their naturals range online, however they sent an email about their product contents.
My thoughts: The lip tins are a great alternative to the vaselines ones. I have heard great things about them but am yet to try them out. I will be stopping by next time i'm in town. If you have tried their own brand you can leave some feedback here
Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Macleans

Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Click the link to read the email i received from them regarding testing a ingredients
My thoughts: I am currently using this toothpaste so am very happy to know that it is animal product free and therefore halal inshallah.
Contains alcohol? No, not as far as i can see (using Macleans: Total Health)

Palmer's

Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Can use it whilst pregnant, smells amazing, DOES contain animal by products(!)
My thoughts: I used in on my thighs and glutes - not any more. I will find an alternative.
Contains alcohol? varies - check the label

Figs & Rouge
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Organic balms, made in UK, a favourite of Harry Potter star Emma Watson, just 4.99 GBP, no petroleum used
My thoughts: I really think the packaging is very appealing and would love to try them. I added them here as an alternative to the vaseline tins!

Treacle Moon
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Ingredients suitable for vegetarians, smells amazing, they do charity work for disadvantaged families in Khandel and the villages surrounding it, located in the desert state of Rajasthan, India. Exclusive to Tesco however you can forget them and buy straight through their website (other flavours are available too, I love the names of them too).
My thoughts: I was gifted 'The Raspberry Kiss' body scrub last year and I really enjoy using it. You can tell the difference straight away. I usually can't stand the sensation of body scrubs but I pulled through with this one! I will be using it again.
Contains alcohol? varies - check the label

OPI

Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Awaiting reply on ingredients, their colour names are funky. Picture shown here is called "do you lilac it?"
My thoughts: wearing nail polish voids your wudu as the water cannot reach your nail which is required to complete ablution. Therefore some Muslimah's choose to wear it on their break which is fine or sometimes to a party where it can be removed before the next salah.

Barry M Cosmetics
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: All products suitable for vegetarians and the odd few for vegans.
My thoughts: I discovered them at The Clotheshow Live many years ago (2003/4 i think) and instantly saw their cruelty free icons. I use their products and think the pricing is great!

L’Occitane
Cruelty free? Yes
Good to know: Natural ingredients from the med!
My thoughts: I haven't tried them before, they are pricier than some other organic brands but perhaps you get what you pay for? Let me know if you have tried them as i'd be interested to know
Contains alcohol? No

Coming soon...

-ASDA body butter lotion 400ml

-Sudacrem

-Bio-Oil

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D.A.N.G.E.R
These companies/brand's are cruel to animal's:
**************************

Vaseline (Unilever)

Cruelty Free? No

Good to know: click the link for general dry skin FAQs

My thoughts: They test on animals therefore I will be switching to the superdrug own brand for my lip tin's and using an alternative moisturiser inshallah.

Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

E45

Cruelty Free? No, their website does not state anything about animal testing, however they are owned by a company called Reckitt Benckiser who also brand calgon, vanish, nurofen...

Good to know: Perfume free, allergy screened, dermatologically tested if you must use it

My thoughts: This was a go to item for me. I do not have eczema (which the cream/lotion is generally used for) but i used it as a moisturiser as it was so light. Really disappointed.

Contains alcohol? Varies - always check the label

Johnson & JohnsonL'OREAL
BIC
Gilette
Sunsilk
Sensodyne
Aussie
Aquafresh
Crest
Clearsil
Colgate-Palmolive Co.
Chapstick
Dove
DOLCE & GABBANA PERFUME
Dunhill perfume
Escada
E45
Febreze
Garnier
Head & Shoulders
Herbal essences
K.Y
Lancome
Listerine
Max Factor
Maybelline
Nair
Neutrogena
Olay
Pantene
Pearl drops
ROC
Vicks
Zest
...and many more which can be found via the PETA link above.

I feel it is rather unfair that the companies have millions but yet continue to use ingredients which are bad for our health. They test on animals so i refuse to check their labels. Natural remedies are the way to go. If only more people knew what they put inside these things and the horrific tourment the animals go through to make these products.
On another note the majority of 'danger' companies listed fund israel and their war crimes, so it does so much good to steer clear of them!
Helping animals, the humanity of the Palestinian people and choosing alternatives (such as own brand) can save you pennies because those work out cheaper for you too! Because let's face it - you only pay for the name on the 'danger' products as we all know now that it isn't for high quality ingredients!

**************************

If you are looking for some cheap hidden treasure beauty product's, here is a HUGE list including some DIY beauty remedies - however you would need to check their ingredients out yourself! Phew!

Newcastle Mosque

2011-07-13T07:51:00.005+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Something I stumbled across recently was this video for a new build mosque in Newcastle. If you were thinking what cause to give your zakat to this year then this maybe an option (methods to donate are located on the website). I am not from Newcastle but in my town there is a half built mosque, it's just s shame that I have no details on how to get in contact with the owners. I tried to find something on the internet but there isn't anything but a few racist articles and a facebook group wanting it stopped. I intended on giving charity to that one as the quicker it's built the quicker I can use it inshallah hehe! I hope the one in my town will be something a little like this, check it out! :)

Newcastle Central Mosque Project from yacine helali on Vimeo.

I loved the little wudu room mashallah. I hope they reach their goal and build a beautiful house for Allah SWT sake!

To find out more information please visit the Newcastle Mosque website or facebook page.

Thank you.

Niqabi Fun

2011-07-13T02:00:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

This is not me, I saw it on a site so thought i'd share. :)

My Thoughts on "Life of Muhammad" (SAW) BBC2 Documentary Part 1

2011-07-12T01:37:00.008+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

NOTE: 'SAW' stands for 'sallallaahu alayhi wasallam' which in English means 'may peace and blessings be upon him'.

It was ok, not great. Had it's faults but that is the BBC for you. Covered the basics, so not much was to be learnt for educated Muslims. It was to address the British public and non Muslims, and in some places demonstrated some characteristics of our Prophet SAW by showing that he was a man with feelings as he lost many loved ones in his life. They also go to say how "Muhammad SAW and his followers resisted without resulting to any violence", "a violent confrontation wasn't even feesable", "you have your religion and I have mine", and they address the 'no compulsion in religion' belief that we have from The Quran.

Islam is all about PEACE!

I was surprised about how they described Khadijah - may Allah SWT be pleased with her- and how she proposed to him (SAW) linking how it is still rare for women to do this today. However they didn't mention women's rights and how we could(and still can) marry who we wanted - funny that! I guess it is there for someone to pick up and ponder further though. They also mentioned how she was the first person to comfort him after revelation of the Quran and how she believed in her husband, subhanallah.

A few other points:

They didn't say (SAW) after his name, I think it may have been said once at the beginning but that is it(!)

The twin towers and terrorism were mentioned within the first 5 minutes, oh sorry I meant the first minute, which have nothing to do with his life (but hey why not throw that in there!? Naughty BBC)

Every time he said an Arabic word, it was hard to understand. I knew what he meant but it was said that hurriedly a non Muslim would have no chance. Why not just say it in English next time? As the 'not knowing' is what makes people worried.

There was too much word manipulation which would have gone over most peoples heads, especially the ignorant non Muslim type as I don't remember stabbing a woman to death was according to "Muslim tradition", so next time please make it clear that those sorts of acts were done in the time of ignorance, not under Islam.

Choice of words at times were unnecessary. "an explosive reaction from Muslims" re: the Danish image of the bomb in turban...!!

Next thing you know "The Satanic Verses" were brought up. You have to be kidding me!

When reading a description of the Prophet SAW please do not pan to random Arab men smoking shisha..as people forget to hear and learn but start gawping at the imagery and wonder if it's drugs they are smoking(!)

Also who were those Tom, Dick and Harry's?! They needed more Ibrahim's, Maryam's and Yusef's - actual Muslims, not any folk paid out by the BBC to talk any old tosh, oh hi Robert Spencer! To be fair there were some pleasant surprises others just plain old twoddle, hi Robert Spencer. There was an appearance from Abdur-Raheem Green and Ajmal Masroor for the Muslim corner.

The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) said: "He who tells a lie on me intentionally, let him take his seat in the Hellfire" (Bukhari Volume 1, No 107).

I will be watching the next two parts inshallah as I have it on scheduled on sky+. I will let you know what I think.

If you saw it then please let me know what you thought in the comments below!

Support Palestinians NOT israelis this RAMADAN

2011-07-10T12:00:00.005+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

We all know that Ramadan is just around the corner inshallah. Excited? I am!
I hope you have all started your preparations, there's lots to do :)

One thing which I wanted to share with you all is the importance of helping our brothers and sisters inshallah. Breaking our fasts together, giving zakat and giving presents are amazing to do but how about doing something great even before Ramadan starts?

BUY ORGANIC FAIR TRADE DATES!

Buy doing so you support the farmers and give your body the the most nutritious food. Please read your labels when buying dates as alot of dates are sold by Israeli's pretending to be from Palestine (the irony!) and profiting from our hard earned cash. Do not buy dates that come from: 'Israel', 'West Bank' or 'Jordan Valley'.

Buying israeli dates will mean that your money is going towards supporting the theft of Palestinian land and the oppression of Palestinians.

Not only do they steal land, demolish home's, murder our brothers and sisters, cease food and water supply and any other means of living they even deceive us into buying dates, and at which time of year is this widespread? Ramadan.

"Dates have been Israel’s leading fruit export and account for about 15% of export from Israel into the EU. It is estimated that Israel produces over 10,000 tonnes of dates per year and the total income for Israel from dates in a year is approximately £80 million – and a vast majority of which are sold during Ramadhan." Taken from here

Please visit Zaytoun: Fair Trade Products from Palestine who are based in England, UK and are an ethical business established to support marginalized farming communities in Palestine. Inshallah.

Olive oil, olives, olive oil soap and many varieties of honey are also available.

This Ramadan, check your label: Don't break your fast with Israeli dates!

Daughters of Another path: Book Review

2011-07-06T18:15:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Daughters of Another path
Experiences of American women choosing Islam

Author: Carol L. Anway

I didn't buy this book, I borrowed it from the library. However I think I may purchase it to keep in my mini library and share it with my family who are what I like to call 'almost muslims' (inshallah khair) ;)

I had heard great reviews about this book. It was on my reading list for quite a while. I recently came across the website which my local library uses and where members can search and request for for books to be taken out. If this sounds technical, you should see how they issue them now! So i just popped the word "Islam" in to see what came up. To my horror there was alot of fowl titles which were tagged with 'islam'. However amidst all that I found 'Daughters of another Path'. I had to get it of course, even though I had (well, still do) a pile of unread books at home.

I am half way through and I just know I am going to enjoy the rest just like the beginning and middle. The information and snippets were gathered from a questionairre filled out by many American reverts. Therefore will be familiar to alot of reverts and if not it's always good to see other people's point of view. Throughout the book it covers lots of topics about Islam, the thought process of the individual women along with the story of a relationship between mother and daughter as the back drop. The Mother in this is actually author Carol L Anway. Therefore this book will help non Muslims, just-about-to-revert-muslim's, and of course it is a great iman boost for the reverted Muslim (like myself) and i'd assume born Muslim too inshallah.

"The change was not a choice for me; it was going home. It gave me answers to questions I had and questions I didn't have. I love Islam. I love the concept of ummah" - page 31

It covers the basics, breaks them down with easy to understand explanations and really displays Islam in a great way, which is a breath of fresh air. I enjoy reading how people came to Islam so much. It is quite bizarre to know that we are all different, have a variety of up bringing and are yet drawn to this beautiful religion and way of life that is Islam. Subhanallah. It clearly shows that when Allah calls you to Islam, there is not one thing that is going to get in your way! Allah akbar.

I highly recommend this book.

HOOTD: Private to Public

2011-07-05T05:39:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Hijab Outfit of the Day (HOOTD)

Private to Public by Modern Muslimah

Summer Chic 2011

2011-06-28T13:00:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I could not believe the price of this maxi dress when I first saw it! Wow...I had to make an outfit around it. :D

Summer Chic 2011 by butterfly2729 featuring mini bags

Vintage day dress
£26 - josephm.com

Dorothy Perkins white top
£5 - dorothyperkins.com

Ladies Denim Lead In Jacket
£20 - peacocks.co.uk

Wolford knee high hosiery
$25 - barneys.com

H&M wedge shoes
£25 - hm.com

Mini bag
€40 - shopfriiscompany.com

Jennifer Ouellette headbands hair accessory
$19 - barneys.com

Black jacquard pashmina
£12 - debenhams.com

Pretty in Pink ~ Summer Night 2011 {Jane Norman}

2011-06-27T13:00:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I really can't wait to try the printed scarves by H&M. I do hope they can be worked into hijabs. There isn't one in my end of the woods so I have to wait until i'm next in Manchester inshallah :) Let me know what you think of this outfit in the comments below.

"Pretty in Pink" Summer Night 2011 by butterfly2729 featuring printed scarves

Jane Norman shift dress
£45 - janenorman.co.uk

Jane Norman ribbed cardigan
£15 - janenorman.co.uk

H&M high rise pants
£25 - hm.com

Pretty Polly nylon tight
mytights.com

H&M wedge heels
£25 - hm.com

Leopard print handbag
£8.40 - peacocks.co.uk

Jane Norman shell jewelry
£5 - janenorman.co.uk

H M printed scarve
£3.99 - hm.com

Boho Hijabi Highstreet Chic

2011-06-26T01:02:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Here is a look I created using highstreet names (mainly H&M). I only recently found out that Peacocks have an online store. Let me know what you think of the outfit in the comments below. Peace.

Boho Hijabi Highstreet Chic by butterfly2729 featuring fringe scarves

H M top
£4.95 - hm.com

H M denim jacket
£15 - hm.com

H M long skirt
£6.99 - hm.com

Pretty Polly nylon stocking
mytights.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors leather wedge sandals
$98 - bloomingdales.com

Summer handbag
£8.40 - peacocks.co.uk

H M metal ring
£1.99 - hm.com

Jane Norman fringe scarve
£8 - janenorman.co.uk

Miss Selfridge peacock hair accessory
£6.50 - missselfridge.com

I won!

2011-06-25T22:37:00.004+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Asalmau alaikum everyone, long time no see/hear/read! Lots have been going on and I miss everyone so much. On top of that I have computer probs so only just got back to the WWW today(!). Although you saw posts I wasn't around, they were scheduled. I'm pretty sure I have missed lots but I hope to catch up inshallah.

I opened my email today, and found a comment letting me know I had won a giveaway on Maya's blog. I am so happy and surprised. I never win things so this really made my day - Thanks again to myazfashionspot I look forward to receiving the prizes inshallah :D

*happy dance*

Fashioning Faith: a documentary by Yasmin Moll

2011-06-13T03:37:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Muslim clothing designers in New York City struggle to combine high fashion with a high sense of piety. Their designs aim to stay true to Islamic principles of feminine modesty while attempting to break into a fashion scene marked more by exposed shoulders than covered hair. In the process these young women designers are redefining what it means to be a modern Muslim in contemporary America.

Fashioning Faith: a documentary by Yasmin Moll from Yasmin Moll on Vimeo.

More bookshelf Art!

2011-06-01T08:00:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

More goodies for the book lovers out there. How good is the bookshelf den (5th down)? :D

Woman on a Mission!

2011-05-31T08:00:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

I love this! :D

Muslims invent stuff too :p

2011-05-29T08:00:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Find the Time

2011-05-27T08:00:00.001+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Mark your diaries! SISTERS NIGHT @ WATERWORLD!

2011-05-26T08:00:00.005+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

What, where, when: Sisters Funday at WaterWorld (Yay!!)
Saturday 9th July 2011 ~ 7pm – 10pm

(EDIT: It says 'funday' but it's more of a night as it's from 7pm-10pm hehe)

Info:We are pleased to announce the return of the most eagerly awaited sister’s event of the year. Sisters Water World is back!

Water World is the UK’s number 1 Aqua Theme Park featuring: • Breathtaking Indoor White Water Roller Coaster • White Water Rapids • Challenging Assault Course • 4 Lane Family Multi Slide • Mini Children Slides & Pools • Relaxing Spa & Bubble Pools.
Water World has something for all ages, whether you want to ‘chill out’ and relax in the bubble pools or get your adrenaline pumping on the White Water Roller Coaster.
Come and have fun in a safe Islamic environment with female only lifeguards guaranteed. Coach transport is available from Birmingham to Water World. The departure/arrival point will be from Little Green Lane (Between Morrisons & Green Lane Mosque). Under 8’s must be supervised by an appropriate adult at all times.
Dress Code Please ensure that your Awrah is covered at all times. Below are a few suggestions on what you can wear: Top Long Loose T-Shirt/Top. Bottoms Leggings 3 Quarter/Full Length Jogging Bottoms. We would also suggest wearing a leotard under the T-shirt or belt over it as it is likely to float up when you enter the water. A dark coloured T-shirt is recommended as white can become transparent when wet. Swimming water contains chlorine that does discolour certain materials, so do not wear anything too valuable.

My view:Last time was great, my only problem was that it went too quick! I don't know if people organised a coach from birmingham last time but it was packed - maybe that was why. So there was lots of people queing for the rides. However you do have to think positive as it's a great chance to have fun with the girls as it is a very rare occasion! I did mention to my friend that I'll need to wear some different leggings this time around. The pair I wore were cotton and made me get stuck in one of the rides as I wouldn't slide any further (in the supperbowl) so i had to push myself down into the tank of water which isn't as fun when you could we swirling around the bowl and don't know when the drop is coming :D
I live pretty close so I'm going to go inshallah - anyone else thinking of coming??

Book Now

New islamic Art HUBB in Birmingham UK 2011

2011-05-25T08:00:00.004+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

"More tea?"

2011-05-24T08:00:00.004+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Don't worry be happy!

2011-05-23T08:00:00.002+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Why?

•13 muscles are used to smile, but 47 are required for frowning. You have to smile nearly a quarter of a million times to make 1 wrinkle.
•Laughter lowers the levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol suppresses the immune system. Lowering these levels enhances the work of the immune system and may prevent disease.
•You can stimulate your heart and lungs, elevate your blood pressure and improve breathing capacity by laughing.
•In terms of exercise, you can get the same benefits from laughing 100 times a day, as you can from 10 minutes of rowing.
•Charles Darwin believed that one’s facial expression can actually influence one’s moods. Studies in bio-feedback confirm Darwin’s belief.
•15 minutes of laughter equals the benefit of 2 hours sleep.
•One good belly laugh burns off 3 1/2 calories.
•Laughing for 15 seconds adds 2 days to your life span.
And that’s just a few facts. Look here for more

You gotta have faith!

2011-05-22T08:00:00.003+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

My Blue Pearl Award

2011-05-21T08:00:00.005+01:00

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Asalamu alaikum.
Thank you very much for my award Miss Blue Pearl it is so sweet :)
It's great to know that there's someone out there who gains benefit from my blog posts which is what it's all about. I am writing this on 4th May but since I schedule my posts)for the time being) it will appear later in the the month. My award will now be 'hung' on my blog sidebar :D
**Hugs**