Hijabification

That's a wrap

2011-01-10T22:23:00.000-08:00

Dear All 7 of my followers,

I am moving to wordpress. You can visit me at

http://midnightmama.wordpress.com/

Time for a change, hope it sticks.

Thanks & Salams :)

Mmm mmm, good.

2010-10-16T17:49:00.001-07:00

This was my first time making chicken fraciase (sans white wine).

I got the idea from my sister and winged her verbal instructions. Hamdullah it was outrageously delicious and we ate every bite. It was SO tasty that there was dead silence at the table; something we haven't had in a VERY long time! I'm starting to like this BlogPress!

Salams, sisters ;)

Posted on the fly with my iPhone

Update

2010-10-06T21:13:00.001-07:00

Salams sisters & Belated Eid Mubarak,

If this post seems disorganized and out of sequence, it's because I am disorganized and out of sequence.....life has been bananas, and solitary moments are rare.

Well- I might as well start of by announcing that my husband, little man and I welcomed our beautiful baby girl during the month of Ramadan. The preganancy was worrisome this time with health issues, and surviving the third trimester in hot, steamy summer and having a fasting Ramadan vegetable for a husband. I believe the stress of worrying about me and the pregnancy, and working too much contributed to his plight lol.

We left home at 430 am the morning of surgery; I had been dreading this moment because I am aware of the risks associated with surgery, and I inshaAllah I was leaving my little boy behind, blissfully asleep whilst Mima (grandma) watched over him. I always find the drive in to be so memorable. Ive passed this hospital a million times in my life, but it seemed so much more exhilerating, personal and memorable. We checked in, they took me behind the scenes to get changed etc, and the waiting began. The hospital was quiet, and as sunrise approached, everything came to life. The hustle and bustle began, and then it was my turn to walk into the chilly and sterile operating room.

Anywho- our little girl was born via repeat c-section, and the birth was amazing!!! I didn't think it could be all that, since my first c-section was quite shocking and depressing- and you know, there is so much out there about natural births being better (and I do agree although I've never experienced one) etc. We were much more prepared this time, and I felt SO present (thanks H.A.) and involved. My doctors were awesome, they took great care of us, and we had a little bonus in the operating room: the neonatologist that was present for the birth (I'm diabetic) turned out to be muslim! I couldnt see his name tag, but his long beard, and 'mark' on his forehead from prayer (anyone know what this is called???) clued us in right away. It might seem trivial that something like this would make us happy- it's just not very often we stumble upon another muslim.

After the spinal was in place, and the surgery began, there was so much excitement in the air. It was very quiet and intense. I felt like it took an eternity for baby girl to come out. She made her debut kicking and screaming, with a perfectly round head, black fuzz from head to toe, chubby lips and cheeks, and robust pink color! Alhamdulillah she was totally unaffected by my health issues. My husband whispered the call to prayer in her ear while my surgery was finishing up, so I missed it :/

Baby girl was in recovery with me for about an hour; I was allowed to hold & nurse her, and of course proud papa snapped a billion pics of her. She was kept in NICU for the first 24 hours of life as precaution, its hosiptal policy anytime a baby is born to an insulin dependent mother. It killed me not to have her with me, but she was perfectly healthy unlike a lot of her roomates. And we are so thankful for this.

Later that evening, when i was able to get out of bed and into a wheel chair, they took me to see her. She literally took my breath away. I swear I have never seen anything so pretty and sweet in my entire life. Right away I just felt my heart belonged to her, and the desire to cuddle her was overwhleming. She was so soft and tiny, and the minute she settled into my arms, I just cried and cried and cried, tears of joy and thanking Allah for this amazing and precious gift. Her twinkling eyes and faint kitten cries were just the most adorable, yet heart wrenching combination- simply because she couldn't room in with me yet, and I already missed her terribly.

When I fist got to my room after survey ,I had to share it with someone, and the minute I heard my roomate expectorating out loud in the common handwashing sink we shared, I lost my mind and demanded my husband to find me a private room (and he did!). I didnt have a private room last time either. I also loathed that there were tons of visitors and men in the room and I did not want to have to worry about modesty, especially with the post partum bleeding and nursing. The curtains did not provide compete privacy.

After five long days and baby going back to special care for 24 hours for double phototherapy (she had pretty bad jaundice) we came home to begin our life as a family of four.

She is amazing; simply the sweetest little girl i know.

Posted on the go with my iPhone

Be Warned

2010-02-05T20:17:00.000-08:00

If for some reason, there is a brother reading this post, let this be a lesson to you:

Never, ever tell your pregnant wife you are bringing home fresh pizza, and then come home without it.

Ive got two words for a situation like this. Pine box, baby.

Pine.

Box.

Suburban Cowboy

2009-12-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

He just loves wearing his new snow boots in the house, with no pants on. It is the cutest thing. He struts around like he's the new mayor in town!

He's got just a bit of status chubbicus left in his meaty little legs. Oh it pains me to see the pudgy legs go, but he's growing into a toddler now!

Oh No She Didn't.....Part II

2009-12-04T21:58:00.000-08:00

Oh How I love Eid Swaps. Well- Since I've only swapped with my homeslice HMM aka UmmSalihah , I should clarify that I adore Eid Swapping with her! Everything she does is so incredibly thoughful; take a look at this:

The beautiful handmade eid card with a lovely message inside.

Gorgeous Bobbi Brown eye shadows, skin and foot treatments, and lovely beaded bracelets. I am loving the Saudi, alcohol free perfume. Its a musk, which is my favorite- it just agrees with my body chemistry.

Chocolate (some not pictured hehe), Sohan Halwa, henna and miswak! PLUS fantastic CD for my son, by Yusuf Islam (aka Cat Stevens)......the songs are so adorable, especially "Ramadan Moon". I am so very thankful for this. iBaby LOVES it.

Three very off the hook GORGEOUS hijabs. Im lookin' good these days thanks to HMM!

I picked up the package on Eid, my mail carrier doesnt like to leave pakcages at the door (Im so appreciative that has concern for other's belongings). It came just in time, as my stress levels were alarming because of the impending move, and it totally caused me to take a step back, reflect, and be thankful :)

Thanks sis, it's perfect :)

Finally, A Moment to Catch My Breath

2009-12-04T21:22:00.000-08:00

What a week it has been. I am so relieved that the big move is over and that alhamdulillah we are very happy in our new apartment. We were cramped in a 600 square foot upstairs apartment with one bedroom, and finally found a great apartment with two bedrooms, groud floor, private entrance and approx 1000 square feet! It is so freeing, in so many ways to be here. No more clutter, more closets, iBaby has his own room now and adjusted immediately. We are all sleeping much better. My only regret is that we didn't do this sooner, however we waited to get the best deal possible.

Eid was OK. Alhamdulillah we are well, and lived to see another one. We moved right smack in the middle of Eid, so we didn't do anything special. My hub went for Eid prayer, and I stayed home with a coughing, sniffling little boy. He is OK, had a touch of croup.

Inshaallah I am excited to have more space, and now we can have family and friends over for dinner. So many jumped in to help us move last weekend. My husband would like us to make an authentic Tunisian meal to thank them all for their time.

I have been off from work for about a week, and how I loved it. I went back to work this yesterday hamdullah, but I miss being home with my little tribe. My son is now communicating with two words at a time, and it KILLS me to be away. Last night as I was leaving, my son looked at me and ask " I come?". I got in my car and cried. He is too sweet for words. The other day I was feeling a little weepy about a few things, and I started to cry. The little bear came up to me and asked "u cy-in, u ok?".

Im driving a loaner car from the dealership we got my wheels from. Our car has had some serious problems that cant seem to be fixed. It has less than 10,000 miles, and I certianly hope we don't have a lemon on our hands inshaallah.

We had a new bed delivered to our new place the day we moved in. Buying a mattress is basically a gamble. There is really no way to know, in the showroom, if laying on a bed for 15 seoncds is going to really give you an idea of what it will belike to sleep on it. Our first night here, we were drop dead exhausted, beyond what we thought possible. We managed to eat, get showers and we COULD NOT WAIT to go to sleep. It was like sleeping on concrete. My husband ended up on the couch, and I seriously contemplated the floor. What a dissappointment! We have decided to give it time, two weeks- before we send it back. So far- its getting really comfortable!!! I think its a keeper!

That's about it for boring updates. i hope you are all well and had a very blessed Eid!

iMuslimah

We're in!

2009-12-02T22:01:00.001-08:00

And what a chaotic transition it has been.

Happy Eid :)

2009-11-27T11:34:00.000-08:00

Eid Mubarak Sisters!

We are moving today and tomorrow inshaAllah, and hopefully I can get back in here to vacum, clean and leave the place nice for the next person. Inshaallah I'll return to blogging monday or tuesday. Please keep us in your duas for a smooth transition and easy move.

Hugs to you all!

Giving Thanks

2009-11-23T22:47:00.001-08:00

I need to give thanks. Right now. This very second. Alhamdulillah infinity.

My God, what have I done to deserve such good things? I often feel I am not living the way you want me to.

I have never been more in love in my life. Our son is on the cusp of 19 months old, and he is the purest joy, the purest love, the purest laughter, and the purest light. There are times when I cannot wrap my brain around the love I have for him. Its endless, timeless, and transcends the boundaries of my heart. His belly laughter slays me. His scent is sublime. There is still some evidence of status chubbicus left (aka chubby thighs, cheeks and tooshy) although they are dimishing rapidly since he has taken to running, climbing and jumping non-stop.

After his birth the depression set in, and it took a while to lift. When I look back I feel guilty for having complained about it, and for having felt so deprived of a naturual birth and crying endlessly over nursing struggles. Whatever it was, it was all God's plan. I realize now I had a failed induction and that's that. Ive accpepted it for what it is, I cant change it and there are no do-overs. Having a c-section meant we were saved from other complications and meant that my son would makes swift entrance into this world with literally no more stress. Why couldnt I see this then? My mind was clouded by fatigue, baby blues, and unrealistc expectations. In the end we were granted a full-term healthy baby boy, and that is truest blessing ever.

Im not sure what prompted this post. I suspect its due to reading some very heartbreaking things in the news and the blogosphere. I also suspect my thoughts are in part influenced by our upcoming move this weekend. We are leaving the place that our baby knows as home. This is where we brought him to begin our journey. This is where he slumbered like a prince in his bassinette, in the center of the living room, whilst our loved ones streamed in and out to admire him, and profess their insane love for him. I also suspect that my feelings are brought forth by our impending Eid Kabir InshaAllah. What more appropriate time to think about our children, when Ibrahim agreed to make the ultimate sacrifice for the love and sake of Allah swt?

We are goingn to start building memories someplace else now. InshaAllah it will be happy memories. We are going to build a future someplace else now (down the road lol), InshaAllah it will be a bright and rewarding future.

I'll probably be without internet for a bit starting on Eid- so InshaAllah I hope you all have a blessed Eid Al Adha. Enjoy one another. I cant wait to hear Takbir at the masjid if we can go!

Assalamu alaykum,

iMuslimah & Co.

Gifts :)

2009-11-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

Outrageous, handcrafted "Happy Eid" Banner

Blingy, bejeweled bangles (love. them.)

Over-the-top milk chocolate and henna!

Last but not least, gorgeous and feminine shaylas with matching undercaps.
Not shown: Hunter green undercap (in the wash at moment), it is a perfect match for my sheer shayla in all shades of green.
Also not pitcured: Hunk of "Happy Eid" milk chocolate that lasted 0.2 nanoseconds.
Regretfully not pictured either: Thoughtful handcrafted Eid card, with picture of her adorable children inside!!!!

AOA one and all:

Things have been BANANAS here, but hamdullah all is well. We are preparing to move soon inshaallah, so Ive been a bit ovewhelmed these days, BUT I did not want to forget to do this long-overdue post.

I received a lovely parcel from my dear sis, UmmSalihah for Eid ul Fitr, here are some pics of the loot!

There are no words to describe how much I cherish every item that was thoughtfully inlcuded in this gift. Everytime I wear my new shaylas, I think of my new friend across the pond!

Jazzakullah Khair sister for your kindness :)

2009-10-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

So. Stressed. Out.

Eid Prayers, Epiphanies and Toes.

2009-09-21T19:55:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum everyone & Eid Mabrouk!

Eid was such a good day for us! While I intended to stay home with iMuffin while my husband attended Eid prayer, that isn't how it worked out. Early in the morning while I was blissfully asleep my husband must of thought it would be nice if iCutie was in bed with me (not). Almost instantly, I felt little fingers being jammed up my nose and in my ears, followed by hair pulling being ridden like a horsey. My husband took him out of bed at my behest, and then proceeded to torture me about what they both were going to wear to the masjid. At that point, I was annoyed, aggravated and most notable AWAKE, so I decided to go with them. When we arrived the first Eid service was concluding and Mashaallah, what a surprise, instead of letting the ladies balcony get dangerously overcrowded, they made comfortable prayer areas outside for spill-over. I was psyched to pray outside! BUT- we attended the second service, and there was no spill over, so I prayed inside. It was QUIET and not overcrowded. I really enjoyed.

As prayer was in progress, and as I listened to the recitation of Allah's divine message for us humans, it all hit me- how tiny I am- we all are in this universe, that I am not the first Muslim, nor the last to walk this path and how much work I have ahead of me, and just how LUCKY I am to be Muslim and to have Islam. I could feel the tears welling up in my eyes, so I looked straight down at my feet, and that's when I noticed.......that the tiny 4 year old girl next to me had a sixth toe. That just about snapped me out of my cry fest, but nonetheless I was happy to be joined in prayer with a child, and realized just how UNIQUE we all are.

The Khutba was really good. I'm not a saavy cerebral person. I usually take note of a few key things, and the rest just kind of gets lost on me. What was most impressionable to me was how the Sheikh explained to us that the Quran and our Fasts will be present on judgement day to intervene our behalf. Can you imagine that? It really struck me and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since. This was my Ramadan 2009 Epiphany.

Worthy of mention- what a beautiful sight the masjid was this day. All the women were dressed in their best. The masjid in our area predominantly serves the Pakistan community; a very well dressed, and affectionate community I might add! Oh how I loved the colors, the style and trends these women displayed. There were bangles and ribbons, beads and sequins, embroidery and vivid color, gorgeous shaylas, abayas, pant suits and niqabs. The children were adorned in the finest garments and running about with balloons. I ran into several people I know, and it was very nice to see them. iBaby wouldnt even crack a smile for my friends! Instead he knitted his eyebrows together and pouted his lips whenever one of them talked to him. Occasionally he muttered "ooooooh, nooooooo" and looked away in disgust! I was horrified! When the service was over and the imam declared Eid Mubarak, I received hugs from complete strangers and strangely I didn't get all uncomfortable!

I walked away from the service feeling good. We were supposed to have dinner with my family but my step-father got sick and we cancelled. Instead- we had lunch at home, skyped with my husbands family abroad, laughed and just chilled out. My mom stopped by to wish us a happy Eid, brought my husband his favorite homemade banana cake and gave iBunny a gift. We had a gift for her too. It was nice! I didn't even cook! My lovely sister made us dinner. That was a relief, as we were running on empty in terms of energy, and that gaves us a nice break.

We also received some good news this day; my SIL gave birth to her fourth child, and both mom and baby are in good health hamdullah! Time to shop and make cards, yippey!!!!!!!!!!!!

We are very blessed. Alhamdulillah- I wish it wasn't over and I look forward to Ramadan 2010 INSHAALLAH!!!!

I hope you all had a special day.....

iMuslimah

Eid Mubarak

2009-09-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Eid Mubarak sisters! The last day of Ramadan was a lovely one, and we really enjoyed ourselves. We took our little boy to a cutting arboretum and park (gorgeous I tell you, gorgeous) and ran with him through acres of lush greenery shaded with giant, majestic Oak trees. My son especially enjoyed running through the hills chasing the poor geese. He kept calling them "doggy" and they just kept running from him. It was adorable. Afterwards, we decided we would not cook tonight, and went to our favorite Turkish restaurant for take out, and brought it home. It was perfect. iBaby liked it too, and ate well hamdullah. After Maghrib we wished each other Eid Mubarak, and reflected upon some stuff, and just relaxed on the couch whilst baby just ran through his repertoire of tricks for us, followed by some homemade ice cream sundaes.

The three of us drifted off to sleep fairly early, and of course I am now wide awake at 3am.

I am a little sad that Ramadan is over.

We don't have any plans to visit with any Muslims (we know very few), but hamdullah, my mother and step-father have wished us a happy Eid and will be making dinner for us today at 4pm in honor of Eid. Isn't that nice???? It will be good to see them, and we will bring them some sweets and gifts.

So my gal pals, I hope you all have had a beneficial Ramadan and a Happy Eid, I am thinking of you all.

iMuslimah

Quick Post

2009-09-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

Inshaallah we are celebrating Eid tomorrow :) Inshaallah it will be joyful!

UmmSalihah sent me a package that is literally bursting at the seams (and I suspect it did because the mail carrier brought it to me wrapped in rubberbands!) and I cannot wait to open it. As promised, I am waiting until tomorrow to raid the loot!

Thank you sister, for being so thoughful. Im sure I will enjoy it!

Until tomorrow inshaallah,

iMuslimah

Happy Ramadan!

2009-08-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

Ramadan Mubarak sisters!

May Allah accept our fasts, our intentions and renew our iman, Ameen!

BBQ

2009-08-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

Imagesare the sole property of iMuslimah

and may not be used or reproduced.

Today's Thrifty Craft Haul

2009-08-15T23:39:00.000-07:00

Above: 4 mat pads, 24 sheets each $2.50 US / ea. UNHEARD OF!!!!!

Above: Pack of 50 blank cards (5x7in or 12,7cm x 17,7cm for my friends abroad) $5.00 US
Pack of mini blank cards (43/4 x 3 3/4in or 12cm x 9,5cm) $1.00 / ea.
Pack of baby themed appliques $1.27 / ea.
Glittery alphabet & hearts $1.97 / ea.

I did get a few rubber and acrylic stamps but I am too lazy to take pics.

Alhamdulillah my son is better! No fever, no rash, back to normal, so we left the house to go shopping at Walmart with iGrandma. I also scored some cheap washable Crayola jumbo markers and washable Crayola beginner crayons for iBaby. iHubster was working all day, so this was the perfect opp to shop for bargains, since my mom has enormous patience and loved strolling the cart with iBaby in it.

Afterwards we went to a local diner for dinner, and iBaby was nothing short of a menace at the table. He is 15 months now, and throws everything. It is hard to teach them the true meaning of NO at this age. He is starting to gain an awareness, because now he references me with a glance before he hurls things. He has also mastered ripping his diaper off from underneath his shorts. Fortunately he's only done it a few times, at home, with nothing in it. Whew.

Tonight we watched CNN's Christine Amanpour present "Generation Islam". I missed the first hour, and caught the last half that took place in Gaza. I couldn't stop crying, seeing the damage, destruction, disruption and trauma the children are facing. I saw all these little children running loose in rubble and amongst other dangerous things, hungry and feeling hopeless. Very emotional. I would like to see the first hour, so Ive set the DVR.

Well, once again this was a craftless night. Tomorrow night inshaallah is mine! When iHubcap & iBaby fall asleep, I will tip toe out and craft myself into a cocoon with the "bumper stash" UmmSalihah sent me :)

I took this coming Tuesday off from work inshaallah, to try to prepare some different kinds of soups that I can freeze for Ramadan. I'm looking forward to this, as I am starting to get excited that our holy month is almost here. If anyone has any recipes they would like to share, hook a sistah up!

Fever, Emergency Room Visit, and Baba

2009-08-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

Hi All.

Hamdullah. My son was in the ER Sunday night, as he has been having moderate to high fevers with no explanation for 96 hours now. You would never know he is ill. He is happy, loud, playing, eating and drinking as usual. We followed up with his pediatrician this morning (how we appreciate her so!) and she said it shouldn't be much longer. No signs of any bacterial infections, all lab tests and exams are fine. My poor little baby with the chubby brown legs. I hope inshaallah this fever lifts soon.

Above are some pics taken about 4 months ago, before my baby got his first haircut. He thinks my husband is an amusement park, especially during prayer, and to me, it is the cutest thing- ever. Now that he is a little older he will grab his own prayer mat, and when he hears takbir he bows his head. When it is time prostrate, he bangs his head on the carpet, and stays there, clapping his tiny hands underneath himself.

Mashaallah. I just love my little guy so much. The love has no beginning and no end.

Crafty Love

2009-07-28T23:29:00.003-07:00

Here are some greeting cards that I have not yet added messages to- I intend to personalize them as needed. I had a lot of fun with these.

Here are a few Eid/Ramadan cards; the letter decals are very obvious in the photo due to strong flash, but to the naked eye, you cant see that they are decals unless you look very closely.

Here are a few baby cards Ive done; sorry for the poor focus.

Here are some more blanks that I will personalize as needed!

This weekend I intend to sit down and start using all the goodies from my friend UmmSalihah across the pond. I cant wait!

Oh No, She Didn't!

2009-07-26T19:30:00.000-07:00

She most certainly did- UmmSalihah that is!

Of course, and most notable, was the thoughtful and sincere UmmSalihah original enclosed:

Imagine my excitement when I dug deeper to find all this bling! And sticker art!

And then my creative monkeys began stirring when I found these:

You see, I have recently been inspired to craft my own greeting cards after reading UmmSalihah's blog. I absolutely love the craft, and find it to be very relaxing.

Sister, thank you from the bottom of my heart and may Allah bless you for such a thoughtful and lovely gift!

iMuslimah

Sand Munching

2009-07-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum,

Baby had his first beach experience and boy was it a brand new and exciting experience for him! His mouth was wide open, squealing with delight the entire time! We visited our favorite ocean beach close to sunset, after all the beach goers were gone. It was SO peaceful and clean. The water was quite rough and we did not go in. I wouldn't swim in the ocean without a lifeguard, and lifeguards are only there during prime hours when everyone else is there, scantily clad in thongs and bi kins, so obviously, its not something we will partake in.

Of course, every two seconds iBaby was stuffing his face with sand, pebbles, sea weed and other unpleasant things. He seems to be in a phase where he must sample and interpret all new experiences with his mouth!

Did I mention my son is walking and climbing? He never stops moving. All day I feel that I am constantly watching every move he makes. Since he has learned to climb, I cannot turn my back to him for even TWO seconds. Before I realized he could climb, I was in the next room preparing a meal, periodically checking on him, and I found him standing on the couch, throwing objects over the safety gate at the top of our stairs! Mischievous I tell you!

What A Day!!!

2009-07-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum,

Sorry for the absence folks. Ive been too busy as usual, and finding nothing interesting about my daily grind to write about.

Well, my little luv bug is almost 15 months old! Can you believe that? I cannot. He is suddenly starting to use little words (so cute!), and my favorite is OK. It's just hilarious when he uses it.

My sister has a private home with a HUGE private yard and a pool :) Her husband is out of town for a few weeks, so i saw prime opportunity to go SWIMMING! Mashaallah what a terrific day we had. It was just my two sisters, mother and our little kids. Oh how wonderful it felt to be submerged in a giant pool of cool refreshing water. I felt like a kid. I have not been swimming in 4 years because we could never come up with a halal scenario. I took my little guy in with me, and he LOVED it. He was just splashing, and laughing, smiling and blinking the entire time. It felt wonderful to feel so fresh and weightless, not to mention carefree. Afterwards, my son and I just ran around the yard kicking a ball and investigating nature. He loved watching the older kids play volleyball. We BBQ'd and had ice cream too.

Today was the perfect, relaxed, fun and carefree summer day. Alhamdulillah it was truly a gift to spend this fun time with the people I love, and for it to be halal and worry free. I hope we can do it again inshaallah. I think my son had a wonderful time. He passed out shortly after dinner and a bath, and is sprawled out in his crib looking so peaceful in his body hugging jammies. mashaallah. Love the belly and chubby legs.

Maybe next time, us ladies can vacate the premises, and my husband can go for a dip with the fellas. I would love for him to have a relaxing day too.

Blogging With Photographs

2009-06-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

Blogging is such a widespread, almost viral practice these days, and sometimes I am surprised if not shocked by content!

Here's a question for my Muslim sistahs......

Do you feel it is OK to post photographs of other people you don't know, (strangers, celebrities, models etc..) to demonstrate something that we Muslimahs should or more likely shouldn't be doing?

For those of you who may be wondering about my views, I am not totally against photography, I actually love the craft, but generally stick to the landscape kind. Photographs of my family are not displayed in my home, nor do I publish their faces on this blog, after much deliberation. I do on occasion, email photographs to those near and dear, to update them on iBaby.

Please leave a comment, I would love to know what you all have to contribute to this discussion!

Salams,

iMuslimah

Bedouin Chic

2009-06-12T22:44:00.000-07:00

Created by Allah

Photographed by iMuslimah

Images may not be used or reproduced.

Assalamu alaykum sisters,

My little snugglesaurus is getting so big! MashaAllah he is 13 months old, running, walking, crawling, climbing and generally sweet as pie. I can't get enough of him these days.

The first image is iBaby in a traditional outfit from my husband's country. We couldn't stop squealing when we put it on him. The kufi finally fits him, and we thought they looked good together! Sandals were a great bargain at Marshall's. We took him to an "end of year" children's party for our local masjid, where my hub teaches arabic to the tots. Most of the families were from Bangladesh and Pakistan, so I got to meet some new sisters from different cultures (and had some deelish BBQ). Their children were exquisite and were enjoying meeting iBaby. It was also nice to meet my husbands little students. What a great group of kids mashAllah! We had a very good time.

The rest are some candid shots of status chubbicus. Love those legs. Love. Them.

Subhanallah to see a human being grow in front of your eyes from embryo to this is the most precious experience ever. Alhamdulillah for everything.

If I Had a Million(s) Dollars

2009-06-10T13:24:00.001-07:00

Assalamu alaykum sisters !

I frequently ponder what I would do with a million dollars if I actually possessed it. I keep coming back to the same thoughts. Realistically it would take millions, but who's counting?

I have this recurrent vision of building an Islamic institution, and I would call it "The Islamic Center for Women and Children". I often feel that women are missing out on many benefits of the deen in the USA because masjids are generally small, poor and cannot accommodate space for us. MashAllah I see local masjids striving to reach out, but as the muslim population increases it is becoming more difficult financially.

I imagine a very large, modern building (approx 10,000 square feet), with all kinds of amenities including classrooms, a lecture hall with seating, multiple prayer rooms, offices, counseling, a health clinic and a food pantry for those in need. There would be a fitness center and a swimming pool. A "board" of sorts would be organized to coordinate educators, guest speakers, volunteers, donations, dawah, sanitation, maintenance, expenses, social functions and networks, and qualified caretakers to watch over the little ones when "mom" would like to pray in peace, attend a lecture or exercise. Children would have the opportunity to attend classes and workshops. There will be a large working kitchen. There will be stroller parking (for those of you that have seen hazards in local masjids will understand this very well). There will be no basements. There will be ample air conditioning and a working PA system. There would be an all-female security staff. There would even be transportation available for those who have none. Oh yes, and of course there will be amenities to cater to women and children with special needs, whether it be physical, emotional or mental.

As a result of this initiative, the muslimah community would strengthen and broaden- which would directly benefit society. We would benefit each other. Stronger women=stronger marriages=stronger families=stronger society...all for the sake of Allah subhana wa ta'ala.

I realize this may all sound naive, because I am sure that this would be a major task with enormous responsibility and endless funding.

Of course, I wouldn't mind a little personal indulgence, but that wasn't the purpose of this post.

Ultimately, I am thankful to Allah for everything he has bestowed upon my husband and I. If I never have millions, it's all good. I just cant see having it and not sharing it.

What would you do if you had millions?

Umm Salihah Where Art Thou?

2009-05-05T23:42:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum,

Please visit happymuslimah and offer your duas for our sister!

Thank you!

Happy Birth-Day To Me.

2009-04-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

SubhanAllah.

This time last year, I was a brand new mom. Twenty-four hours fresh into the unknown. The unexpected. The unforgettable.

I flip through photographs of my shining star, and I cannot believe that he has morphed into what he is, right in front of my eyes. It's like it happened yesterday, and it's almost heartbreaking to think that the precious infant I held in my arms that day, is long gone- replaced by a newer and improved version of edible cuteness, haughty freshiness, and one outrageously vocal little (halal) ham. OK- second thought: Lamb Chop.

Life with Omar is becoming more dynamic and challenging each day. It is clear his cognitive skills are really blossoming, and his motor skills are sharpening. To witness a child learning is a treasure. I wish I could savor each and every moment of interaction with him. His greatest achievement thus far is- giving kisses. My baby is learning to show and express love. Isn't that grand?

I wish we could have a mini-scaled down birthday party for him. Just love, cake, grandma and grandpa. Instead, I brought him to see them in the morning so they could have breakfast with him. I was so proud of them, that they never once uttered the phrase "happy birthday". I know it was hard for them. The rest of the day, my husband and I carried on as if it were any other day. I quietly kept reflecting, for the day my son was born, I will never, ever forget. We ended the day with a lovely trip to the beach, for it was unusually warm.

So you ask, why the title of this post? This has been the most rewarding and demanding experience of my life. The first few weeks of his life were super difficult. I finally realize that I deserve some credit for keeping it together......iMuslimah, you rocked it!

Alhamdulillah wu shurku lillah.

My Neglected Little Blog

2009-04-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum-

Oh I have been neglectful of my little blog. Where does the time go?

InshaAllah next week I will be off from work for NINE DAYS! Woohoo! I can't wait to assume some normalcy. I am very much looking forward to it, as is my husband (and if my son could speak he would agree!).

Not too much going on here. Been very busy with son, family, work. Life in full swing as usual alhamdulillah. MashaAllah husband is loving new job. Baby is going to be ONE in a few days. Wow- the idea takes my breath away. More to come on this subject. I am certain I will be reflecting a LOT in the days to come.

Deen is a little weak, I am not confortable with that- so I hope to take advantage of some Iman boosters inshaAllah. This weekend, the three of us will be going to family night at the masjid. MashaAllah its is a busy masjid, there will be a lecure, and then a community pot-luck afterwards. I look forward to seeing my fellow muslimahs as well as meeting new ones. Due to work obligations I am somewhat removed from interacting with the sisterhood here on a regular basis ( I work evenings to be home with my son), and it is to my detriment to some degree BUT I take comfort in being with iBaby most of the day. InshaAllah in May we are going to a HUGE HUGE HUGE Islamic convention, and I can't wait!!!!!

That's it for now, time to myself is up and bouncing baby boy is patiently waiting for me to play with him!

Be good to each other,

iMuslimah

Handbag or Garbage Bag?

2009-03-30T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hello my esteemed blogeress',

Today was lovely. I was off from work, got a decent nap this morning, had lunch with my sister and son, then went to Marshall's and splurged on a funky handbag I never thought I would carry. The colors are outrageous. I'll have to post a pic.

Also, while shopping in CVS, they had a sale on Maybelline Lash Stiletto Mascara (pictured above)....buy one get one free. Who can resist that? Not I. I must testify, that this stuff is the BUSINESS! It smells too floral, but hey. The lashes look fab. No curling needed. No clumps. I am already hooked. Go get some today.

I have also come to the conclusion that I am my own Kryptonite sometimes. I hold myself to ridiculous standards, and when I can't meet them, I go insane. At least I can admit it. Now to change it? That's the real challenge. I thought if I attempted to rectify big things in my life, that all the little things would fall into place. Not so, at least not for me. I have learned over the past few weeks, that if I address the little things, I have less big things to tackle. How's that for a wisdom nugget?

This may seem odd, but last week I took a night off from work to collect myself. I was feeling very overwhelmed and disorganized. Now- I'm sure some of you can identify that when your handbag looks like the county dump inside, it is a red flag that you are approaching wicked, emotional heifer status. Every time I looked, it seemed to be getting fatter and fatter. I had so many receipts and snippets of paper that I couldn't find my money or other necessary things. I Couldn't even get the bag to close. I must have looked like a travelling pack rat. It dawned on me, that I was in dire need of help when I went to the bank with my husband. When the banker asked for my ID, I had to unload my trunk on his desk, whilst things like pantyliners, and crumpled up tissues, and empty on-the-go baby formula packets popped out onto his desk. I know my husband was mortified.

How did it get this bad? Not allowing myself enough time to do anything. Not caring. Sleep deprivation. Stress. Ironically, the worse it got, the more stressed I became.

So, anyway (yes there is more)-

On my special night off, I spent THREE HOURS cleaning my trough of a handbag. I organized everything in it, then determined what got trashed and what was needed. I found about $10 worth of coin on the bottom, about $20 in singles all wrinkled up. After I was done, I tackled my wallet. What a task that was. I didn't realize how many unnecessary things were jammed in there.

I am happy to report, that my beautiful, favorite handbag has gone back to it's normal size, my wallet has assumed it's slim silhouette, and I can locate everything with ease. It has to be at least 5 lbs lighter. My whole world seems more organized. Everything has order; home, car, work.

I now see that my handbag, is life central for me. It's the nerve center of my daily activities. Since I am constantly on the go, it is always in use for one thing or another. It never occurred to me that it was so critical to my own well-being.

Hijab-Ability

2009-03-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum one and all.

Inspired by the most humble and honest thoughts by Sister Fuzzy http://asks-muslimah.blogspot.com/2009/03/age-old-debate_26.html , I have the urge to share my own thoughts and feelings about being Muslim, observing hijab, and the impact it has on my daily life....

I am a revert to Islam since August 2005. I was born in and have lived in the USA my whole life. While there is no doubt that there is a lasting western influence in my lifestyle, I was pretty much modestly fashionable. Being a fuller figure/well nourished woman, I was more than aware of my body type and always wanted to look feminine, yet appropriate. I enjoyed getting my hair done, wearing nail polish, and generally took pride in my appearance. I felt lovely and soft.

Since wearing hijab, many blessings have come into my life; a thriving relationship with my husband, a beautiful little boy, a promotion at work, and people accepting for who I am and what I believe in, rather than what I look like. This is the ultimate freedom. Will life always be this easy? Inshaallah- but if not, my hijab will remind me that my faith is more important than anything, and like all things, doing them with GOD in my life will certainly make them worthwhile and ultimately to my benefit, whether it be in this life or the next.

Since wearing hijab, I've noticed that I do not like my appearance at home, when I am not wearing it. My hair is matted to my head to the point where I can't even style it without washing it all over again. I look like a pathetic drowned water rat. There is no recovery from a look this bad. Honestly, by the end of a day off ( I am only home 2 nights a week, working full-time evenings)- the last thing I feel like doing is re-styling my locks or putting on make-up to spice things up. I know in my heart, in the recesses of my soul, that my husband, unquestionably loves me and is indeed attracted to me. The problem is that I am not attracted to me. It has gotten worse since the birth of my 11 month son. Now, I truly do not have a minute to spare without sacrificing something else that needs to be done. Ive manage to carve out about an hour at the end of my night (1 to 2am) where I just do "me" things....read the news, pluck the brows, take a long shower or blog a bit. That's it.

I also feel frumpy. I don't feel that my current wardrobe is very fashionable, because I believe I should keep things simple. Is that an excuse? Sound like one. Do I have the energy to put something together that is cuter? Not really. I don't wear an abaya; I am just not comfortable with it. I do own a few beautiful ones, and wear them on special occasions. Maybe someday I will be willing to wear abays, but for now it takes me deep into the discomfot zone. Every spring and summer I painfully hunt mainstream clothing stores for items that are appropriate for hijab. Sometimes I get lucky, and sometimes I don't. I get frustrated and depressed. I feel like I wear the same things over and over again, just in different colors! I have found a few lovely, long tunics at Shukr, and I have a plethora of long skirts. This spring I should have a greater variety of things to wear.

Going to work is a breeze- I wear scrubs and a lab coat down to my knees. I don't have to worry about coverage, as it is madatory for us to wear these things. They are actually quite comfy, and very loose fitting. I like to match my Al Amira undercaps to my scrubs LOL. Now that I am verbalizing these things, it has dawned on me that A) I am perpetually exahusted and nothing is appealing when you're tired B) I work five nights per week, and really only worry about weekend wardrobes which might be part of the reason I am lacking in this department. I dont get dressed up often enough.

How do I get to any resemblance of my former self? Is it even possible? I suppose someday inshaallah my work schedule will ease, and there will be time. For now- these days.......there are only two things I can guarantee when it comes to self caring; #1 showering #2 good oral hygiene and a basic skin care regimen. That's what gets my free time!

After writing this, I don't feel so bad.....

Oh yeah, I have a wedding to go to in July. This should send me in a wicked fit trying to find something appropriate and nice. Wish me luck. Better yet, wish my husband luck. Poor unsuspecting soul of the "I have nothing to wear" wilderbeast that is about to rear it's ugly head.

Mother's Day: To Celebrate or Not?

2009-03-22T19:19:00.000-07:00

Whilst commenting on Umm Salihah's blog, I realized it was too long and that it would be more appropriate to just continue my thoughts here- so welcome, and thanks for reading.

Regarding Mothering Day/Mother's Day:

It is a personal and emotional controversy with me. With Islamic evidence presented, part of me still doesn't see a problem with this celebration, since my intention is not to honor a Greek or oman goddess or take part in a religious ceremony, however being Muslim and visually (hijabi) Muslim, I feel i have a certain responsibility to set an example and to be consistent.

I appreciate my Mom on a daily basis. In the past I have adored celebrating her life on Mother's Day, and I relished in the joy she exuded when she was treated like an absolute queen by our family on this day! Waiting an entire year to pull out the stops made it special and exciting.

Regardless of why I was brought up to celebrate Mother's Day, and it's origins; despite fatwas, and scholarly opinions on whether it's viewed as a shirk innovation- my feelings haven't changed. A month before Mother's Day, my siblings and I would secretly start growing our Marigold and African Violet flower seeds in empty coffee cans. Painted macaroni necklaces were in progress, our hand prints in plaster were a right of passage, and of course, one of us made a pig sty out of the kitchen trying to bake a cake. Let's not forget the original poem chock full of misspellings and atrocious grammar. My father would give her rose garden extra special attention and even add new buds. He did his best to please her within their means. All this, for the love of Mommy. I still want to burst into confetti on Mother's day for all the memories and love she gave us. For all the pain and sacrifice she endured for us. For all the penniless moments, multiple-jobs-with-no-day-off moments, and scary moments. For holding her head up high during the darkest hour moments, and all of her successful and and accomplished moments.

Not partaking in this day does not mean I love her less than I did yesterday. It does not mean that she is not a phenomenal woman. Not celebrating would mean my faith is stronger than I previously thought. Not observing would mean that I truly believe any sacrifice or hardship in this life will be rewarded in Jannah. I imagine that my mother would agree that faith in God is more important than anything else in this life.

So- you ask, what does iMuslimah want from us? I'll tell you and then some. I want your deepest internal wisdom on the subject (pretty please), especially if you are a recovering (Muslim) Mother's Day or Birthday junkie. I want to know, stated as simply as possible, what motivated you to give up non-religious holidays and how you changed your feelings. If you are somewhere int he middle like me, I would like to hear about that too.

Jazzakullah Khair,

iMuslimah

Yes, You Are Seeing This Correctly

2009-03-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, Ladies- it's real.

This sign is posted on a state owned beach upon which a national landmark is built. How is this fair? The attraction in the background received hundreds of tourists weekly during spring and summer. Unsuspecting visitors (such as myself) may walk the entire boardwalk to the ocean front not realizing what awaits them; people. Yes, lots and lots of men and women who like to tan their bits, frolic in the sea, and play volleyball- completely naked. And I have news for you- they aren't all spring chickens in their prime.

How I wish this wasn't so. How I wish there was a beach for religiously modest or just very conservative families; where clothing is not optional, thongs and speedos are a no-no, and our children could enjoy God's splendor without being subjected to haram habits. I know that in life, my son will be faced with many choices and decision, and that I cannot completely shield him from indecency, but this is where I draw the line. It's a painful one. I miss the beach. I want to build sand castles with my son and husband. I want to teach him to body surf someday. I want him to splash around in the surf and collect seashells. I suppose these joyful activities will wait until we go to my husband's home in N. Africa, where hijab is observed. I am looking forward to this inshaAllah.

I know that what awaits us in paradise inshaAllah, will be far more spectacular than anything we can experience on earth..........

Surrender

2009-03-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

Stick a fork in me, I am finished. I cannot find a template that really suits me. This is the last attempt for now. I loved the blue jeans, but it was a little hard to read. This one is much easier.

That said, I'm about to do some more baby proofing. We need to move some furniture around to make a better play area for my little Huggles. Hopefully I will be able to get to the toy store today, and get him safe toy chest for all his things. He loves to dig through his things, it keeps him busy for hours. For now, his toys are in a basket, and he takes them out, then puts them back in- over and over again. It's too cute.

My PC that I use soley for editing and storing photos took a dirt nap last night. I went out and bought a portable hard drive to back up my photos (all 14,000+ of them), and when I went to actually do it, my computer would not start. I think the power supply in the tower died. I'm totally annoyed, because now I will have to pay someone to back up my hard drive.

Lets not even talk about the fact that I have my photoshop proggie on the dead puter that is only for XP- and this laptop is vista. That was a dowload also. Currently I'm downloading trials of newer photoshop products to try on vista. They are super expensive. CS4 is about $700 USD. Im thinking of buying an older version of CS2 on e-bay for $150 USD. I'm so bummed out. I just took a bunch of new photos of Huggles with my new lens, and now I cant upload them and process them!

Moving on- I hope to get my hair done tonight. HijabiApprentice I know you will be appalled, but I have not had my hair cut since huggles was born, nor have I colored it. Four inches of grey roots (attractive). My sister is a hairdresser/make up artist, so inshAllah she will cut, color and highlight tonight. I need a pick me up. Feeling like dirty spittied up dish rag.

That's all for now. More later.

Ciao Bellas.

Ridiculous

2009-03-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

I'm about to loose my MIND with this bloggy template XML crap.

What do you think? Should I keep it? Is it easy to read? I hate busy blogs that make my eyes bug out. I love blue jeans. I love my baby boy in blue jeans. Too cute.

Having trouble customizing. I'll have to ponder this tomorrow. Feel free to leave advice.

Shukran ;)

I've Been Tagged!

2009-03-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

Thanks http://hijabiapprentice.blogspot.com/ :) Back atcha bewty!

The rules:

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

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

3. Send this to 5 other moms of the year that deserve a reminder that they too are the best moms that they can be. Remember to send them a note letting them know you have selected them, and also add a link to your post that directs people back to the person who nominated you!

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

One thing I feel awful about: Working full-time. It is not a choice. Alhamdulillah I have a good career that is rewarding. We are saving to buy a home inshaAllah. We are also both working on our education, and also saving for iBaby's education. I know that in time, I will be able to slow down. When my little man looks at me with his big liquid brown eyes, it slays me to walk away. I don't know that writing this down will make me feel better, but it's worth a shot.

Seven things I love about my son: This is tough, I have more than seven. I'll try to keep it brief.

1) the thighs, THE THIGHS! Oh they are sublime and chubby.

2) I love watching my son when he is *busy*. It is the cutest thing ever. He becomes

engrossed in something (i.e. toy phone, stackable cups, etc...) and won't look at me.

3)I adore watching my son and my husband interact with each other. They have such a

unique and beautiful relationship.

4)When he is excited, instead of screaming while exhaling......he screams while inhaling. It

is the most hilarious sound. Especially in the middle of the night when he thinks it's play

time. The minute he lays eyes on my husband, he starts making this noise, because

he knows he is going to have fun.

5)I love feeding him his bottle. He just turns in to a super-mush-love-angel-baby and

stares at me intently. When he drifts off to sleep, he fights it, as if he is checking to see

if I am still there.

6)I love playing peek-a-boo with him. He cracks up every time. He loves any kind of

game.

7)I adore shopping for him. I find joy in purchasing even the most mundane things like diapers, wipes, bath prodcuts, clothing and shoes. It helps me realize that together, my husband and I can provide everything he needs, through the grace and mercy of Allah swt.

Overall, I love the joy and happiness he brings our families. He is loved infinitely, and cared for more than he will ever comprehend until inshallah he is father someday.

I would like to tag HijabiApprentice & UmmSalihah but they have already been tagged. In addition, I will tag: http://americanmuslimawriter.blogspot.com/ and http://motherofabdu.blogspot.com/ !

Mr. Blue Jeans

2009-02-23T23:31:00.000-08:00

Mr. Freshy pants is quite edible in his new jeans. I found Levi's on sale and splurged. I nearly lost my mind after I dressed him. The cuteness was too much to bear. I just started snapping away. I can't believe he is almost 10 months old. Current stats:

23 lbs 7 oz

30 1/2 in long

No teeth

Stands alone, takes steps.

Still calls me Da-da.

Calls my husband Baba

Babbles all day long

Loves to be clothing free

Can remove his pants

Can remove his diaper if left to his own resources

Loves telephones

Doesnt love mommy on telephone

Loves to throw things

That's about all for now. Alhamdulillah he is thriving and well. I love him so very much.

What Is This World Coming To?

2009-02-13T12:58:00.000-08:00

I am absolutely appalled by what I've just read:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/scienceandtechnology/technology/4611161/Rapelay-virtual-rape-game-banned-by-Amazon.html

What kind of sick and twisted individual would want ANY part of this? There's my answer- a sick and twisted one. How could this be a game? I am actually having trouble forming my words right now, because of how disturbed I am.

Has anyone else heard about this? I realize violence in video games is nothing new, but this takes things to a whole new level. It's almost like consumers are so so so satisfied by over-the-top technology and animation, that the manufacturers and developers have to come up with things like this to keep the attention of the virtual gaming culture.

I suppose I should not be surprised, women have been exploited for thousands of years, why should it stop now? In my opinion, rape has little to do with desire, it's about hatred directed at women.

Everything seems excessive these days; music, television, movies....people of all ages are constantly being bombarded with images and notions of immediate gratification and needful things. I can now see how the trend is leading to products like these. Disgusting.

I'm flat out sickened by this. Ya Allah, All Knowing, All Seeing, save us.

Addendum

2009-02-10T19:50:00.000-08:00

Please see last post.

Re: AMW/ALL MUSLIMAH

I was able to get on today with no trouble !!!! I am so happy! I didnt change anything, I dont know what happend. Perhaps it was Divine mini-intervention ;) I found a blo i really enjoyed too. Double bonus.

Thank you Brandy, for all your efforts to unite us!

Hello?

2009-02-09T18:49:00.000-08:00

Assalamu alaykum,

Sorry for the prolonged absence, been burning the candle at both ends, with little time to blog.

First things first- alhamdulillah wu shukru lillah for everything in this life and the next.

Shout out to Organica: Find joy in your journey. Those radical converse are bound to land you someplace interesting ;)

Life with baby, husband and two full time jobs between us has been a real challenge. We are exhuasted, irritable at times, and keep pushing forward. Fortunately iBaby is always with one of us, so he is thriving and happy.

I had an asthma attack last night. It started with a sinus infection, and by last night I couldn't lay down, I could only sit up straight and labor to breathe. At about 2am iHubcap wrapped iBaby in his blankets walked him two doors down to my sister's house and took me to the Emergency Room. I received prompt treatment and relief, and came home. I was really surprised by all this. I have been very well controlled with maintenance meds for almost a decade, and the infection just completely exacerbated my condition. I'll be on steroids for the rest of the week which means I will be a ferociously hungry and wicked wilderbeast for the next five days.

When I initially called my sister at 2am, I was hysterical. Being a veteran of asthma in my 36 years of life doesn't take away the fear. For those of you may wonder how awful it feels, it's like attempting to take a breath through a straw. I didn't want to leave my little bundle. I was afraid it would get worse. It wasn't severe enough to warrant an ambulance, but I knew I had to get to the hospital.

I hope inshaallah my little guy doesn't catch this sinus infection.

Tonight I felt strong enough to hold him (after nice hot disinfecting shower) and give him his night-time bottle. MashAllah- dressed in his form fitting, pale aqua and yellow duckling fleece feeties, he sunk into my arms like a warm loaf of bread, and just stared at me in the dark. just looking, and connecting. I wept uncontrollably as I imagined that his big black liquid eyes and paint brush lashes were telling me that he missed me today (I slept all day whilst iH tended to him). His lids kept drifting and drifting until he could no longer fight off slumber. I let him stay in my arms for about a half hour (he was sweating), as I could not stop admiring him and thanking Allah for this beautiful grant He has bestowed upon us. Holding him, and rocking instantly made me feel better. His cute little body and round chubby cheeks are like an instant band-aid. Yes that's it, he is my little band-aid.

Moving on, shout out to AMW/owner of ALL MUSLIMAH BLOGS- I want so badly to visit your site, but every time I do, my internet explorer browser goes bananas! Any suggestions? The problem occurs when I try to close your page. All of sudden, it just keeps reloading page after page, and before you know IE has launched itself 20 or 30 times! Anyone have any insight? I miss reading Brandy's entries.

Duaa request: iH has a second interview this week with a health care facility he has been wanting to work for, for about 7 months (his current job really stinks). Please please please make even the tiniest dua that everything works out for the best, as there a few complicated issues. May Allah swt in return for your duaas. I really believe he is deserving of this new and exciting opportunity. Only Allah knows what is best for him/us.

Shout out to Jibbly & Mumina, where ya been?

It Wasn't What I Thought It Would Be

2009-01-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

Created by Allah Subhana wa ta'ala

Photographed by: iMuslimah

Images may not be used or reproduced

Recently, my brother-in-law came to visit us. One particular day we had NO plans, and could not think of anything to do. We decided to visit our local aquarium (I know, exciting). I really wasn't into it, it was very small, and quite frankly it looked lame from the outside. Boy were we surprised when we walked in. Yes, it was small, but I could not believe the number of tanks and displays they had, or the diversity in species. I especially think it was designed for children. Many of the exhibits were at eye level and very interesting. The colors were magnificent. Not expecting to have fun or see anything photo worthy, I did not bring my dSLR. I brought my little point n shoot camera and took a few handheld, flashless shots in low light. Not as sharp as I would have liked, but flash photography would not have captured anything special. Here they are, enjoy.

I forget there is an entire world under the sea. Allah truly is amazing.

Mmmm mmmm good.

2009-01-05T20:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you, http://motherofabdu.blogspot.com/ for the recipe. It was sooooo delicious and simple to do. My husband loved it. It reminded him of cooking back in Tunis. It is very similar to Algerian food.

:)

Assalamu alaykum,

iMuslimah

Slap Chop

2008-12-30T22:42:00.000-08:00

Seriously. Have you ever? I am watching an infomercial featuring a product that claims to chop and dice anything....

I think I might like to have one, but the name turns me off!

You can see it here https://www.slapchop.com/ver1/index.asp , it seems convincing.

Anyone Reading This?

2008-12-20T21:56:00.000-08:00

Salam sisters!

Welcome to hijabification. I am hoping to dedicate this blog to all things hijabi!

I am a hijabi. I hope this serves as a connection to increased knowledge about modesty and practice. I want this endeavor to be fun, with a sprinkle of humor, a dash of cooking advice, a smattering of fashion, and lots of sensibility. I want this to be place where ideas and thoughts are exchanged in a positive and respectful blogger environment.

I have not figured out where I will find the time to do this :P

Should I just combine this with blog with "iMuslimah" and keep it simple? Should I just toss the idea of "hijabification"? I just seem to think that Hijabification is catchier and more interesting than iMuslimah. I realize it's not the about the name, but the content.

Comments & suggestions welcome and appreciated.

Good night,

iMuslimah

Bucket List

2008-12-11T23:26:00.000-08:00

Tagged by none, inspired by Organica & HijabiApprentice :)

Hajj with husband and son when he is old enough
Meet husbands family in person; travel to his homelandia <----my fave hijabiapprenticism
Buy a house with a private yard and pool
To be more charitable
Start something wonderful that outlives me.
Leave a legacy
Make a difference
Be re-united with my husband and son in jennah inshAllah
Become a better muslim, stellar wife and outstanding mother
Improve my practice and application of Islam
Excel in the field of photography
Buy a home for my mother so she can retire
Swim in the ocean and build sand castles with my son (this is a thorn in my side!)
Get back to the carribean
Volunteer more often
Have a winter cabin in the White Mountains of New Hampshire
Summer home in Tunis
Learn Arabic, Spanish and French
See the Alps, Rockies, Atlas and Himalayan mountains
Hike through Oregon and Washington, from the coast to Mt Ranier
Drive cross country for photographic purposes
Publish my own coffee table photo book
White water raft through the Grand Canyon
Witness Aurora Borealis
Learn to play the harmonica
Swim with dolphins in their natural habitat
Dog sled in Alaska
Take better care of myself
Be more patientwith others
Improve cooking skills
Get another college degree
Take up cycling and surfing
Take piano and guitar lessons
See all the National Parks
Begin posting my second blog "Hijabification"
Launch a photojournalistic website with a team of hijabi photographers

There you have it, the most recurrent wishes in my mind that seem meaningful to me! I wonder if Hijabification should be the photojournalistic site....any thoughts?

Gotta go, iMonkey requests my attention.

Assalamu alaykum.

Baby's First Shopping Cart Ride

2008-11-25T22:10:00.000-08:00

This is my little man. Tonight my husband and I took him food shopping as usual, but this time, he sat up in the shopping cart like a big boy! He is 7 months old now, and sitting up really well. We purchased one of those quilted shopping cart inserts and it is great! Its a comfy and sanitary way to keep him happy. He LOVED it. He sat in that seat, like he was the mayor of the grocery store. He has a big silly round head and a long neck, and well, he just kept staring at everyone and looking around, sort of like a meerkat. It was so precious and sweet. My husband and I kept crashing and bumping into things, as well as caused numerous traffic jams in the isles because we couldn't stop staring at him LOL.

Thank you Allah, for the sweetest little boy.

Stuff

2008-11-21T21:22:00.000-08:00

Salaams peeps.

Been real busy the past 2 weeks. I am now realizing this is my life, and it is only going to get busier as iBaby gets older!

Re: previous post "Five Minute Face", the Morgan Schick Hi-Def is drying my skin out, probably wont use it anymore.

The holidays are upon us all, and no matter how hard I try, I cannot seem to get out from underneath the great opressor "Christmas". I find it to be a suffocating time of year, and I am looking forward to it's passing. Inshaallah I am eager to greet 2009!

My husband is miserable at his job. Alhamdulillah it is a job, but it is just awful. He is currently seeking new employment, so please keep us in your dua's.

Inshaallah I will meet my brother-in-law for the first time next week. Yay! My husband hasn't seen him in eight years. He is coming for a visit, and I am excited for my husband and my son. This should be a really joyful time. Thank you Allah.

iBaby is getting huge. Growing like a weed! Last well visit he weighed in at 19 lbs 11 oz and 29 1/2 inches long. That was three weeks ago. I am certain he is closer to 21lbs now. All of a sudden his sleeves are short and his onsies dont snap so easily. Mashaallah. He will be 7 months old next week. If he is in my husbands arms, he reaches out for me and vice vera- its a very cute game he likes to play with us. He also will lay his head on my should if I ask him "will you please give mommy a little hug?" He looks absolutely sublime in his red fleece feetie pajamas with monkeys all over them. May Allah bless his sweet little heart, he is the joy of my life.

Ameen.

Pre-School

2008-11-11T08:25:00.000-08:00

Assalamu alaykum,

I pose a question fellow muslimahs: do you feel it is necessary for elementary aged girls to wear hijab to a muslim school (mainly pre-pubescent aged?) My little guy is only 6 months old, but the demand for muslim pre-school and grammar school is high because there aren't many instituions. I thought I would familiarize myself with what's available to us and what resources we will need. I happen to notice that the dress code requires hijabs for all girls. I don't have a daughter, but it did cause me to think.

I'm not sure how I feel about it. On one hand, I think it is very good for little girls to see the reasoning behind hijab at an early age, especially since I am a hijabi, and then on the other hand, I am not sure that a small child is really able to wrap their brain around the concept and practice, and therefore it wouldn't be meaningful to them. I never want my child to do something "just because" when it comes to something this important.

If Allah blesses me with a daughter someday, of course I want her to practice hijab, but I want her to feel empowered and choose to wear it. I don't want to mandate that she wear it. I believe that if I am a positive role model, and she is taught about the love and grace in Islam, and the importance of hijab/purity/preserving one's awra, I would hope that she would wear it with ease.

I feel wishy washy, what's your opinion? What is your experience? Do you think your reversion to Islam, or being born into a Muslim family is a factor?

Assalamu alaykum!

The Alleged Five Minute Face

2008-11-09T19:40:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies:

I am in search of the ever-elusive five minute face. I have finally carved out 5 minutes for myself, and find it annoying that I cannot apply even moisturizer, mascara and lip gloss in five minutes. In my desperation, I tried a few new products, and I will rate them:

Morgen Schick Hi-Def Pre-Makeup Illuminator: Feels gritty, but actually gives skin a nice youthful glow. It's some kind of "half gel, half powder" concoction. Ive been using it alone, and I actually got three compliments, all agreeing that my skin seems to be looking fresh & renewed.
Morgen Schick Light Saver Eye Pen: Not so much. Its like gold glitter in a stick, and the shimmer seemed to accentuate fine lines I had never seen before. BUH-BYE!
Oil of Olay Total Effects 7: OK, this stuff is not going in the trash. It totally agrees with me, and I love it. Will include it in my post shower regimen to keep skin moisturized.
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks: I've had them for a bit now, I wasn't crazy about them, and then while watching Tim Gunn's Guide to Style, I realized I was using it incorrectly! What a difference when used the way it's intended. These are definitely keepers: Rose, Bronze and Apricot. I heart finding yummy stuff in my collection that I forgot about.

So, if I moisturize, apply mascara, use the shimmer brick and apply a sheer gloss, it takes me exactly EIGHT minutes. I'll take it!

I feel that I am betraying my Bare Escentuals, my most favorite products, but they take more than 10 minutes to apply. I'll save that for a special occasion. I just want to look refreshed and feel like my old pre-baby self , without actually wearing pigmented cosmetics.

By George, I think I've done it *wink*

Now to resume the weight loss...........I got a little lazy after I stopped breastfeeding my little guy. You see, breastfeeding made me kind of hungry, and I got used to eating more frequent smaller meals with higher calorie content, but now that we are finished, I no longer need to keep the higher calorie content, and need to change my habits. Wish me luck!

Hello?

2008-11-09T11:24:00.000-08:00

UmmSalihah, where are you?

I hope inshallah you are well. I miss your blog :(

Assalamu alaykum,

iMuslimah

SuperChunk!

2008-11-03T19:04:00.000-08:00

Six months and one week old.

19lbs 11oz

29 1/2 inches

Sitting up

Crawls backwards

Babbles non stop (mama, dada, baba)

Pulls and destroys my hijab. No point in even trying to wear anything that requires pins.

I also have a bald spot at the nape of my neck- from the merciless pulling and yanking.

Grasps the spindles on his crib while on his belly, pressing his face against them to look for us.

LOVES his Curious George stuffed monkey.

Loves to eat his baby food now, string beans are amongst his favorites!

That's all folks!

Brilliance

2008-10-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

If it is there- I will eat it.
~
If it is not there, I will not eat it.

Status Chubbins

2008-10-07T09:29:00.000-07:00

5 months 1 week
18 lbs 11 oz
29 inches (he grew 1 1/2 in in 4 weeks!)
Didn't cry with his shots
Hates Peas
Loves Carrots
No Fruit Yet
Almost sitting up
Understands "No"
:)

A quick note:

2008-10-04T00:13:00.000-07:00

Eid Mubarak!

Not much going on, been too busy to blog any of my thoughts. Alhamdulillah husband and iBaby are doing great! Baby is getting SO big and silly. He's been scooting around on his belly, and sleeps with his behind up in the air! He is also smitten with hair-pulling, skin pinching and slobbering on anything within reach. And of course, he is a total sucker for anything soft and squishy! We go to the pediatrician Monday inshaallah, I have to guess hes bordering at least 19 lbs and 28 inches long. We shall see ;)

Ive been battling an awful sinus infection, but alhamdulillah it wasnt enough to keep me down! Working out of the home full time makes time fly. One day blends with the next, and before I know it, its sunday night and I am already missing being home with baby and husband in the evening.

I am super excited about the upcoming presidential election. No matter who wins, history will be made, and I look forward to following it closely. I still have not finished my investigation to determine who gets my vote. Im pretty sure what direction Im headed in, but I still have some time to mull it over.

Im super worried about the economy. Im not a financially savvy person, but there are signs- and of course news, about how bad things are. I cant help but think that the root cause of all this trouble is g-r-e-e-d. Lack of regulations. Riba. I do not think we are immune to hard times like during the great depression. I am scared, and hope inshaallah that things turn around soon.

May Allah keep us wise, close to the deen and responsible. May Allah protect us from despair and hardship, and at the same time, increase our ability to be kinder and more generous to those in need, Ameen.

Alhamdulillah wu shukr lillah for everything in this life and then next!

Until next time folks, May Peace Be Upon YOU!~

iBaby briefing

2008-09-10T08:39:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum: Here are the latest stats on my little monkey...

4 1/2 months old
17 lbs 5 ounces
27 1/2 inches long
Still not sleeping well at night
Hates anything on his feet
Sits up well with assistance
Hold his head up strong!
Babbles non-stop
Not ready for cereal yet
Widow's peak is filling in nicely!
New fur growth on ears, legs, back, ears and fingers!
Chubby thighs
Loves to read books
Still nursing part-time
Rolls over!
Grabs his feet!
Got two needles and didn't even flinch!

Enough said ;)

Hijabification

2008-09-08T22:44:00.000-07:00

Hijabification is the act of wearing hijab, around my body, and my heart. It is not just a scarf or veil, but a garment that is a symbol of my faith that holds wisdom, sentimental value, purpose and responsibility.

Hijabification is not an event; it's a lifelong process. It's the evolution of my mind, body and soul. It doesn't necessarily begin with the physical act of covering one's hair and body- but with the curiosity of Islam and what it means to be Muslim.

This is what Hijabification is for me. What does it mean for you?

Ma Salama,

iMuslimah

I'm Thirsty

2008-09-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Ramadan Mubarak everyone.

May this Ramadan be a reminder for us, as to how fortunate we are.

May this Ramadan be our "reset" button to slow down and gain a deeper re-appreciation for our deen and stronger iman.

May Allah subhana wa ta'ala accept our fasts!

Sunday Morning

2008-08-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Created by: Allah subhana wa ta'ala
Photographed by: iMuslimah
Copyright 2008
Image may not be used or reproduced

Big Boy!

2008-08-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

Salaams.

Baby update:

14 weeks old
16 lbs 8 oz
26 1/2 inches long
Cuter than ever
Sweeter than candy
Softer than silk
Milder than a gentle breeze
Happier than happy
Downright silly
Big black eyes
Dribblin' and droolin',
That's my boy.

Alhamdulillah.

Zucchini Squares

2008-07-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

Inspired by the well written UmmSalihah, I am posting a zucchini recipe that a friend passed on to me. It is super tasty, and fattening, so a little goes a long way. I like to make it as a side dish when serving company. Its also nice for a brunch, or a sister's get together:

3 cups grated zucchini
1 cup biscuit mix (I use Bisquick)
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 tsp fresh oregano (finely chopped)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
dash garlic powder
2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs lightly beaten.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees (Fahrenheit). Mix all ingredients together, spread in a 13 x 9 inch pan, and bake for 30 minutes. When the top is golden brown, it's ready! Cut into square pieces to your liking. I would like to bake this in a pie plate and serve slices....might make for a nice presentation OR bake them in muffin tins....

UmmOmar Back to Work

2008-07-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

As'salamu alaykum one and all.

Before I ramble, I must say two things:

1. Alhamdulillah wu shukru lillah for everything Allah subhana wa ta'ala has blessed me with.
2. A special thank-you to my husband, for everything has done for our budding family. I miss not being home with you in the evening.

I went back to work one week ago. It was crazy- more hectic than I remember. Three and a half months flew by quickly. I was dreading it; I cried non-stop for about three days prior to my return, and then the moment I actually had to tear myself away from my baby bear- I completely lost my composure. I must have kissed him a hundred times, and told him how much I loved him. The little stinker was in my husbands arms, and when I turned away from him to walk out, he followed me with his little coconut head, drooling and cooing. Oh, my heart ached all night long.

With that said, there are blessings here. I was/am not at all worried for iBaby's well being, as he is always with his father when I am working. My husband is a champ, he does it all- from diaper changes, to baths, entertainment, feedings, laundry, cooking and moral support. I do the same for him while he is at work. I can see they joy in his face when he is taking care of baby. It is really, really beautiful to see, and I can't stop smiling when I think of the two of them. My husband truly is my best friend, and has done everything in his power to make my transition back to work as easy as possible. I hope he reads this.

I miss my son. I long to see his chubbly little face when Im at work. It is all I can think about, and what gets me through the night, is that Inshaallah when I leave work, I head home to my family. I love it. I have a family. Not two of us, but three. Three is wonderful. I never though I would love the number three so much.

I was greeted with so much happiness and excitement when I returned to work. My colleagues were happy to have me back, and it felt kind of good to get back into the swing of things. While I would probably stay home full time if I had the chance, I just keep focusing on the positive aspects, like helping support my fa mily- and it is a satisfying feeling.

We have decided to start saving for iBaby's education. Hopefully inshallah we will send him to an Islamic parochial school for his elementary education, as well as junior high & high school. It's expensive. So worth it. The more I look into his education, the more I realize how important it is to develop his spirituality as well as his academic skills. Inshaallah, we will also be saving to send him to college. I cant even think that far in advance, but I know that time will fly, and inshallah it will be nice to have the means to send him without sweating it out financially.

My God, I am so in love with this little guy. Everything has new meaning, every moment seems more precious, and the miracle of life is unfolding in front of my eyes.

Now onto the practical: I am wiped out. I feel pitiful lol. iBaby must feel the shift in routine, and hasnt been sleeping so great this week. Hubby and I are both back to being sleep deprived but inshallah it is only temporary. Tonight I arrived home at 1am, to find my little kitten bright eyed and bushy tailed. All smiles with his legs sticking up in the air. So seriously sweet and delicious he is. What a treat to come home to this. I cant get anything done. Im so tired in the morning and afternoon, that I am lucky if I manage to get fresh air. When he rises at about 8am, we spend about an hour feeding and playing, then he gets to watch mama straighten up the house, tidy up herself, get her clothes ready for work, prepare a simple meal, make a few phone calls- and then before I know it it's feeding time again. Then, I get to shower, pray, greet hubby and sometimes we all nap together for about an hour, and then I leave.

Feedings: Ive been giving baby formula, and supplementing with expressed milk (I can only get about 8 0z on a good day), and out of the blue, last week, I was just too exhausted to get up and warm a bottle, so I re-introduced iBaby to the breast, and he took it! Mashallah I was shocked. He is bigger and stonger now, and more able to latch on properly. Its been about one week, and I am not enough for him alone, but nursing him just a few times a day helps keep my milk supply up. If this does not last, I will not get all upset. I have told myself that this brief experience with him is a gift, and I am just treasuring each moment. Im glad to have the experience, and to know what it is like to nurse him without all the drama and tears. Alhamdulillah.

I know everything will fall into place soon, I just need to have more patience :)

Gotta run, time to sleep!

iBaby Update

2008-07-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

Age: 11 weeks
Weight: 14lbs 9oz
Length: 25 inches
Head circumference: 16.5 inches

Mashallah! Alhamdulillah he is in good health. He received several immunizations today, including DTaP which is known to have unpleasant reactions in babies. He is slightly whiny/cranky, but has been given baby tylenol as a preventative measure. I could not watch him get the injections. My husband had to hold him still. He was so cute and quiet, and when the needle went in, he let out a horrific cry- which was followed by a pause (you know that hysteria type pause when they shake), then continued to howl. Oh my poor baby. I was choking back the tears.

Yesterday I laid him on his tummy (awake) to see what he would do, and he kept his head up high, and then turned himself halfway over! Mashaallah! He is drooling excessively and keeps licking his gums. Its super cute. Maybe teething is just starting, I hear it comes and goes, and takes quite a while (months).

Thank you Allah subhana wa ta'ala, for this most precious baby boy. I love him infinitely.

Bits and Pieces

2008-07-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum ladies & germs:

Greetings and salutations. My husband and I just had the BEST weekend! We attended the Islamic Circle of North America 2008 Convention in Hartford, Connecticut. MashALLAH what a wonderful experience it was! From the moment we stepped foot in the parking garage, we were surrounded by Muslims from all walks of life, for the same purpose!

The program was CHOCK full of talks, lectures, slide shows, and informational booths. There were so many choices, that we had to pick what was most interesting to us (it was almost overwhelming with the plethora of choices available to us). Friday and Saturday, every hour on the hour, there was something new being offered in one of the TWENTY conference rooms available! I mean, I just can't convey to you, how massive this was. There easily had to be at least 5,000 (yes- five thousand) Muslims present. We brought iBaby with us, and mashaallah he was SO good. We dragged him around 14hrs each day on Friday and Saturday, and he never made a peep unless he was hungry.....even the noise didn't bother him. Well- I take that back. He screamed bloody murder when he heard the adhan! I think it was way to loud for his tender little ears, so I just made sure I boogied out of the main hall when it was coming.

A large part of this conference was dedicated to sisters, and sadly I just did not have a chance to investigate, as there were so many others things to do. The highlights for me were talks and lectures given by the following individuals:

Yahiya Emerick

Dr. Jeffrey Lang

Shaykh Yusuf Estes

Imam Siraj Wahhaj

Shaykh Mokhtar Maghraoui

Chaplain Yusuf Lee

The knowledge, peace, thoughtfulness and love for Allah swt was so clear in the hearts of these brothers. I walked away with a boost in my iman and having learned something new. For me, the biggest benefit I received from this weekend was understanding and accepting the Qadr of Allah.... I had been going through some stuff prior to this trip, and something Sh. Mokhtar said has not left me....I dont remember his exact words, but in essence it taught me to change my thinking and that when I see something that I long for myself, to say "Alhamdulillah for what Allah swt has given this individual, and may Allah grant the same for me".

So of course, you are wondering what I was longing for- and I don't want anyone to think it was something material, sooooooo here goes, for the last time, as I promise to no longer revisit this issue: breastfeeding. It has been the #1 disappointment of my life. Every time I would see a woman nursing a child, it would move me to tears and I wished I could do the same.....iBaby is almost 11 weeks old now, and I have decided to stop trying. I truly believe it is Qadr Allah swt. Allah says that with hardship comes ease,so I am trusting that Ive done all that I can, and since alhamdulillah iBaby is healthy and thriving, I ought to just leave it alone.

The Bazaar was OFF THE HOOK! This was a bonus. There had to be at least 200 vendors there, in a flea market like setting, all from popular websites you and I have probably shopped on. There were Jilbabs, hijabs, abayas, and niqabs for sale as far as the eye could see! There were entire book stores that catered to children and adults (oh man-I found some really great things for iBaby that include but are not limited too a mini prayer rug, kufi and his "first quran"). My husband and I found some great books, AND I got a stash of hijabs and pins that ought to last me a long while.

I met sisters from all over the world and I loved every minute of it. This truly was a family oriented event- so i wasn't worried that iBaby was going to cry or have an explosive bowel movement. I was panicked about changing his diaper in public if need be, and it only happened once. The line for the ladies room was TOO long, so I found a discreet corner and draped a blanket over his stroller so no one could see his business LOL. I brought these diaper sacs that conceal odor, for moments like these. I also had to pump milk in my car (gotta love technology), that was a bit of a positional challenge! Did I feel like a pack mule for this trip? You betcha, but it was worth every bit of aggravation.

Do you know what also impressed me? The youth! A large part of this conference was also dedicated to young Muslims, and it was great! It was so refreshing to see young Muslims practicing and really taking their iman seriously. Since I reverted to Islam at 32, i don't know what it's like to be a Muslim teenager in the west. I am certain it is a huge challenge, and I commend these young people for doing their best.

Saturday night my husband and I attended and entertainment gathering that featured The Travelers AND Baba Ali!!!!! Do you know who Baba Ali is? He is the comedian behind Ummah Films that you've probably seen on YouTube. If you haven't seen him, look him up on YouTube, Im sure you will get a good laugh!

Total strangers would stop us frequently to check out iBaby and make dua for him. During a lecture, I was feeding him, and when it was time to burp him, I put him over my shoulder, and he was just looking around and cooing at the ladies and children behind me. When he opened his mouth to coo, and a giant burp came out LOL and all the children giggled; it tickled me pink!

So there you have it, a watered down version of my wonderful weekend. I hope inshaallah we go again next year AND I hope some of you will go too. I believe ICNA has chapters all over the USA. Check out ICNA.org !

Extremism

2008-07-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

Nope- I'm not talking about religion folks; if you can bear it, I am talking about my son! I experienced seriously extreme cuteness tonight:

I swaddled iBaby in his stretchy receiving blanket, put him down to sleep in his bassinet and left the room. About 15 minutes later, I walked back in, and peeked.....my little chubbykins had one arm out with his fist in his mouth, and when he made eye contact with me, he let out a big happy coo, with a giant smile.

That's it, nothing major to the general public, but it made my heart burst.

Assalamu alaykum.

Things That Make Me Happy

2008-06-30T21:25:00.000-07:00

Created by Allah
Photographed by iMuslimah
Copyright 2008
Images may not be copied, used or reproduced.

Working Outside-the-Home Moms Please Speak Up

2008-06-30T20:02:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum all :)

Alhamdulillah it's been 9 1/2 weeks since iBaby has graced us with his arrival. In about two weeks, I will be returning to work, full-time, in the evening. My heart is breaking, as he is getting cuter each day, and now he has a repertoire of tricks at bedtime, that I will miss, five nights a week. I'm not worried for his well being, as he will be home with Baaba who is in amazing father, and who will give him so much TLC inshaallah.

I'm just feeling deflated/sad/heartache for being away from him. I cannot work days- because then iBaby would be in daycare 9 hours a day, and I am not willing to do that.

My God. Mashaallah he is so soft and sweet. His legs are chubby and cute. He's very calm and easy going- and loves to smile, coo and make baby noises. Four days ago, he found his hands and now they are in his mouth frequently. Sometimes I put him down for a nap, and when I walk back into the room, I hear him sucking. He still loves to be swaddled at night, and when I'm all finished wrapping him, he gives me a huge gummy grin and loves to be cuddled. We then head to the rocking chair for some quiet time. He stays awake and just looks at me, and I feel like I'm the best thing ever. I will miss this.

So, what I want to know is: how do you all cope with returning to work? Do you have a strategy for getting things done at home, as your time is limited? How do you juggle your husbands, and children and your own needs? Does anyone have any helpful hints that you would like to share? Even your smallest tip or idea could be helpful...

Alhamdulillah for the opportunity to work. Alhamdulillah for my education and skill that allows me to help provide. Alhamdulillah for a hard working husband ( and outstanding father to our son) who will begin graduate school in September. Alhamdulillah for our healthy baby boy, and may Allah swt protect him always.

8 Weeks.

2008-06-23T20:27:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Goodness.

SubhanAllah.

My baby giggled at me today. A full on, primal, unrefined belly giggle- accompanied by giant smile. It lasted only for a nanosecond- enough to make me go absolutely insane with joy and pride.

I think I kissed him a thousand times as a result of his giggle.

I can now identify his different cries most of the time (hungry is distinctly different from tired, and tired is very different from "I need attention"), and now when he cries, real tears come out.

iBaby has also learned to suck on his forearms, hands and fingers in a pinch. LOL.

I just got a rocking chair; we love it.

Tomorrow is my last post-partum check up. I will miss this chapter in my life so much! My OB/GYN is the best. I will bring iBaby with me. This should be interesting since I havent ventured out alone, with him, without help yet, unless I go for a walk. My appointment is at noon, so inshaallah I should wake up at 7am LOL. It will take me that long to get ready.

How will I ever return to work without a broken heart?

Ya Allah, please help me deal.

iBaby Update: 6 1/2 Weeks

2008-06-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

Mashaallah:

He smiles.
He coos.
He always kicks with his chubby left leg first.
He tries to communicate with me.
11 lbs. 8 oz.
He knows his Mama and Baaba
Tonight he went to sleep at 10:30pm!
Mamma's gonna get some shut-eye!

May Allah continue to bless his little heart, his little life, his innocent soul, Ameen.

Night night.

Tender

2008-05-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Created by Allah Subhana wa tala

Photographed by iMuslimah

Crude

2008-05-29T21:05:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum all-

Seriously, this happened to me today:

I was out shopping with iBaby and my sister, at a very popular warehouse club where you can purchase things in bulk. While I was on line, my sister and I were talking about travel and airplanes. She mentioned that a certain airline (can I say on here?) is going to start charging for ANY luggage that is checked! The cashier chimes in, seemed quite lovely, and said "it's because of the price of oil- they are finding new ways to pass the increase onto the customers, and all airlines will probably follow the same new rules". She then dropped the bomb-

"You know, my son just got back from Iraq and said that oil is 3 cents a gallon. Our boys are there fighting to help these people and you would think the least they could do is send us some of their oil".

Can you imagine?

There are so many things wrong with her statement, that I didn't know where to begin.

What is it with people? Do they not understand that you don't discuss politics with customers, better yet, it shouldn't be discussed in the workplace???? I wanted to jump all over it- I was ready to retort, but I thought it best to hold my tongue, even though I would have been mild mannered and eloquent about it.

I would like to know where some make the connection between putting a material value on life under unfortunate circumstances (and that is putting it mildly). Ok, so her son was in Iraq, he survived- would cheaper oil have made her pain and agony better, while she was waiting for her son to come home in one piece? Would it make parent who has lost a son or daughter in service feel better? Highly unlikely.

Are we really helping the Iraqi people? No we are not. I do not believe that at ALL. The people of Iraq have lost so much, their children, relatives, homes, cars, roads, jobs. They continue to fall prey to hunger, poverty, starvation, unemployment and violence. Hospitals are destroyed, banks are gone, markets and other necessary structures have been destroyed. We are supposed to believe that we are helping them, and then take their oil in return? Give me a break.

******

Recently I went shopping for a piece of silver jewellery. I didn't have anything specific in mind, I just wanted something shiny and sparkling. The clerk kept overwhelming with pieces, and I couldn't take it. She just kept throwing things out of the show case for me to look at. I wanted to throw them back at her.

She decided she wanted to sell me a crucifix! I gently explained that I am Muslim, and that it doesn't jive with my religious beliefs. She look stunned. She kept insisting it was beautiful, and again I explained I am Muslim. Finally, I thought maybe I should take it one step further- apparently she didn't know what being Muslim meant, maybe she never met a Muslim. So I asked her if she wanted me to explain, and I did. I gave her a very watered down version, making the point that I would not wear a crucifix for several reasons. She got it, and stopped trying to make the crucifix sale. I ended up purchasing a simple ring. When she handed me my receipt she said:

"Remember there is only one God: the father, the son, the holy spirit; and Jesus is the son of God and our lord and savior".

I returned my ring.

Chunky

2008-05-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum.

I was staring at iBaby tonight, while he was sleeping in his bassinet, and I cannot believe how big he is getting. Mashaallah he is SO cute and cuddly, and ROUND! His head is a perfect round melon with black peach fuzz. His nose is delicious, and his lips are sublime. His feet are irresistible, and his toes are like tic-tacs; tiny, edible and sweet. I cant stand the cute, chubbing-up cheeks and his sweet little chin. Oh and the thighs! He has totally filled out his stretchy feety pajamas (with little baseballs and bats on them), and he looks like a little sausage link. I can't believe this weekend he will be 4 weeks old inshaallah. Subhanaallah, he is just amazing. I think he is going to be a tall boy. May Allah bless him always, Ameen.

Am I biased?!?!?!?! *wink*

Maybe Ill do a photo-essay. That will take time, but maybe I can manage it when my husband is off. Don't know. I'm not sure how I/hubby feel about posting his photos on the internet. I'm so anxious to share his pic with you all......so tempting. (I don't feel conflicted islamically about photography- its the whole internet thingy that causes me hesitation). What are your opinions on this? Please comment!

Until then- Ma Salaama,

iMuslimah & Co.

Grumpy

2008-05-20T13:46:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum.

Hello all. Trapped in house today. No walks for us today due to plentiful rain. Grumpy. How dare I?

Happy to report iBaby is thriving and growing mashaallah.

Feeling bad about breastfeeding. I just wish I could do it. It would make life so much easier for both of us. I just cannot reconcile, in my pea sized brain that it is not working for us. On average, I am able to pump 20 ounces of milk for him per day, and only having to supplement with about 6 ounces of formula.

I used to love watching 'A Baby Story' on The Learning Channel', but I cant stand the sight of a woman giving birth the natural way, nor can i stomach seeing a woman nurse her child, right now.

How immature and nasty of me.

I have to change my perspective asap, or I will torture myself.

Seriously, how dare I feel this way? All of these circumstances in my life are beyond my control and in Allah's hands. He knows what is best for iBaby and I.

How can I grind my teeth because my milk supply isn't increasing, when there are women starving and thirsty in Myanmar and China- unable to nurse their children because there is no food or clean drinking water?

How can I complain that I have to use formula to supplement, when children in Myanmar and China have been orphaned and are starving to death? Heck- I don't even have to look that far. There is plenty of poverty and hardship right here, in the land of want and plenty- the USA.

Alhamdulillah I know I am so incredibly blessed with my son, my family. I love them more and more each day. Its amazing, I never thought my heart could hold so much.

Stuff

2008-05-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

Can someone please tell me why spaces are not showing up in between my paragraphs??? It is very annoying and ugly to read.

Alhamdulillah yesterday I had some free time without iBaby. I had reservations about being away from him, BUT my husband was with him and he actually convinced me that getting out and clearing my mind would be good for me! He was right! I missed iBaby while gone, but it wasn't terrible. I think if he had not been with his Baaba, I would have felt differently, or maybe I would not have gone. I got in my car and drove. Oh my, did it feel good. I cranked up some Frank Sinatra ("All of Me") and enjoyed every measure. It so reminded me of my mother, she would clean the house on Sunday morning to her favorite music, Sinatra being one of her all time fave artists. I was gone about 1 1/2 hrs, ran a few errands and just enjoyed it.

"You know- you got the part, that once was my heart......so why not, why not take all of me"

Oh- I had a post-op check up with my OB/GYN on Friday, and she went absolutely nuts over iBaby. She even remembered that he has fuzz on his ankles and shoulders! We took a few snapshots of them together, and then talked about health. Are you ready???

I am 49, yes FORTY-NINE pounds lighters than my first pregnancy visit! Can you believe that? I almost fainted! Everyone has been telling me that I look like Ive melted away and look great, but I'm so tired, and still recovering- so I don't feel it. Alhamdulillah I developed really good eating habits during pregnancy due to diabetes and chronic hypertension, to protect iBaby, and in the end, I reaped a huge benefit. I no longer have to take anti-hypertensive medication, and my blood glucose no longer needs to be monitored! Mashaallah! The breakdown: I lost 22lbs during the pregnancy and 27 after delivery! Oh yea! All this eating every 2 hours, and choosing the right foods- and we had plenty of calories too. I hope inshaallah I can continue on this path to loose 35 more lbs, and be in the best shape possible for my son, and my family. I want to run and play with him, as well as show him how to take care of the bodies Allah swt gave us. My husband and I want to get bikes so we can take nature trails through our gorgeous parks. I would like to start hiking- we've got lots of trails and nature walks around us. Alhamdulillah.

Finally- all the Arabian styled clothing my husband's family sent me is starting to fit, and I am sure they would love to see me in it. I would love to wear some of it too- there are a few gorgeous abayas/jilbabs (whats the difference???) that would be perfect for the Eids.

Each day, I find new hope and new joy- I am finally starting to feel like a true mommy (it took a few weeks), and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Assalamu alaykum ;)

Day 4

2008-05-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

There is not going to be a Day 5, since my husband has a 4 day work week (Ameen!).

Day 4 went pretty smoothly, I got some help from my sister. She came over and fed, burped, changed and cuddled him, which allowed me to get other things done! It felt really good, as clutter was accumulating in our home, and I needed to tidy up. After that was finished, she accompanied me to Babies R Us- as I don't feel strong enough to leave the house alone with him, since I still cannot lift anything heavy (car seat, stroller etc..). It was nice. We shopped a little, then came home.

iBaby is having gas/crying issues at night. It also seems he has gone back to sleeping ALL day and having to be awakened for feedings, and then being super fussy between 10pm-2am. It is stressful, but it was nice having husband home to help with it, since normally he is not home for this. Even if the fussies don't go away completely, as his organs mature, it will get better. I noticed that the leg massage/exercises help him pass gas and make him more comfortable.

I found switching bottles has significantly helped the gas issue. I was using the Medela bottles and slow flow nipples that came with my pump- the nipples are super soft and iBaby collapses them, hence sucking too hard/getting air. I also tried the Avent bottles- and he was still getting too much air- and burping a LOT with hiccoughs. I purchased one Playtex VentAir Advanced, and one Dr. Brown's- and guess what? Dr. Brown's did not help at all, BUT playtex did. I was pleasantly surprised. iBaby is now using the Playtex, and its much better for him. The nipple doesn't collapse, and it is a true slow flow nipple- when he drinks from it, it's a little more work and his jaw/neck muscles move like he is actually nursing directly from me. We are happy.

Well- I must say that Medela has outstanding customer service. I called them Thursday night about my broken pump (Medela Pump in Style advanced), the agent I spoke to was getting ready to leave but said she would stay a few minutes extra if I could get to a fax and send my proof of purchase. Do you know why? They take breastfeeding/nutrition seriously and she told me that she would like to make sure I got a brand new motor the next day as not to interrupt my son's feedings. Can you believe that? Well, low and behold, the next day- a new motor arrived- and it didn't cost me a dime! I have since rented a hospital grade pump, just for a month to see if it will increase my supply. If not, Ill return in 4 weeks, and continue using the one I have which is pretty darn good. Alhamdulillah for everything.

iBaby now follows my face and voice. It is so darn cute- I can't take it! Mashaallah he is really growing and changing so much, and is really filling out. He is loosing his newborn look and the ripe old age of three weeks.

That's it for now- motherly duties await me!

Assalamu alaykum ;)

Day 3

2008-05-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

Salaams to all.

Day 3 was essentially the same as Day 2. I'll take it. Anything is better than Day 1.

Still grappling with the nursing issues. I just can't give up. I'll keep trying until I am convinced it can't work. For now he gets mostly bottles, and a little bit of me. I am relieved he is at least getting my milk.

Pump aggravation: We spent $329 on a pump almost 90 days ago. All of it's functions are not working, so our options are (now mind you my son is relying on pumped milk) to return it to the manufacturer (it weighs a lot) with shipping at our expense, and then rent a hospital grade pump for one month at the cost of $70 plus the $49 accessory kit I need to use it OR I can attempt to wait until the 'buyer protection' (which cost us $40) warranty kicks in after 90 days, and get a brand new replacement (Im sure there are strings attached), and spare the cost of renting a pump for one month. I'll make a decision tomorrow morning after speaking to the manufacturer. Maybe they will offer me a better solution, who knows.

Positive stuffage: I tried on some pre-pregnancy clothing that was WAYYYYYY too tight on me before I got pregnant, and they are falling off me! Hooray! It feels good to be getting back on track to a healthier lifestyle. I'm really excited. My husband is taking us for my follow up visit with my OB/GYN tomorrow, and then to get me new threads inshaallah. I can't wait. I'm also looking forward to showing off iBaby to the staff at the office, whom Ive seen every week for what seems like forever. I'm happy to see my doctor too- as we just feel that she gave us the best care possible, and we cannot forget that. I'll have to dress shim in something extra delicious for his debut.

iBaby is up to about 3 0z milk per feeding now, and sucks it down quickly, even with a slow-flow nipple. I have to interrupt him so he can burp (and boy- can he). We had some issues settling down for bed, and basically he stayed awake from 1am to 430am. When my husband came home at 3:15am, I felt a sense of relief. I was exhausted.

Mashaallah he is getting cuter and cuter. Sweeter and sweeter, and big! His voice is starting to change a bit, and he is able to follow our voices. When I put him over my shoulder to burp, he tries to suck on my cheek; yet I am convinced he is trying to kiss his mama.

Inshaallah tomorrow is a new day for us.

Day 2

2008-05-14T07:35:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum,

Day 2 was better than Day 1 alhamdulillah. I'm still grappling with the bottle/nursing issues- but today I opted to only bottle feed beasty (A nickname bestowed upon iBaby by the nursery staff lol). I actually enjoyed feeding him, it was much easier on my psyche and his. No crying, no fussing- pure gratification for him. The down side is the constant pumping- the constant bottle and nipple washing, and measuring. I can't believe he is already taking 3 oz per feeding. Mashaallah he is growing so fast; I swore last night that he was bigger than when he woke up. His onsies are getting snug, and he is more able to wiggle out of his receiving blankets. His umbilical cord fell off Sunday, but I still sponge bath him. My husband and I want to give him his first bath together- we just haven't had time yet. It will surely be a Kodak moment.

I accomplished more Day 2: I got a long, hot shower with hair washing. I even shaved my legs! I also was able to sponge bathe iBaby, straighten up our home, make our beds AND actually cook a meatball and spaghetti dinner. I did all this after my husband left for work. I'm feeling better than I did Day 1. I miss him so much, and when he comes home, my heart leaps.

C-section is healing very well alhamdulillah.

I still can't believe I have a family now, and that I am a mother.

Inshaallah, tomorrow is another new day for us.

Day 1: Baaba Back To Work

2008-05-13T18:20:00.000-07:00

Assalamu Alaykum-

I dreaded this day since the birth of iBaby- especially when I learned how awesome my husband would be....

I might as well be truthful- it was awful. iBaby had a rough day; his mama was exhausted and terrified. Breastfeeding was a total nightmare; we had made it almost one full week of exclusive nursing, and that ended this day. We've been for several lactation consults, and made some progress with the 'bionic nipple'. My nipples are flat, there is nothing for iBaby to really latch onto, so Im using a silicone shield. the draw back is that I have to hold the nipple on, and football cradle him with my other hand. That leaves me helpless when a problem arises. When baby sucks, the silicone nip draws breast tissue into it, to create more of an utter (for lack of appropriate vocab). He really doesn't like it, if he fusses- it falls off, and if his feisty little hands go bananas (like the usually do when he is hungry), the nip gets knocked off. By the time he latches, 20 minutes has passed, Ive pulled out every trick in the book, hes cried real tears, I've balled my eyes out, and then he falls asleep after 10 minutes of nursing. I then have to wake him and start over. Overall, it's taking about 1 1/2 hours to get a good solid 30 minutes nursing session. I am frustrated- disappointed, depressed. I've been wanting to nurse him and do the best for his health. It seems that the forces of nature are working against me. Mashaallah Ive been able to keep up a decent supply of milk by pumping, so I have not had to give him formula, yet.

I'm feeling angry- this is the most natural process, and I cant do it. At what point do I surrender and try to enjoy him more? Feedings are an ugly process, and I watch the clock now- waiting for the next session to begin.

I'm sure, some of you are reading and thinking that I should simply be thankful for my son, and wonder how I could be whining about this. I don't know how to explain my feelings. Nursing is a very strong instinct, as natural as the desire to be pregnant. Ive dreamed of this for a really long time, and time is passing quickly. I feel almost like I am grieving. I find myself unable to even talk to other moms about it. My son is growing mashaallah, and the window of opportunity to nurse him is growing smaller and smaller. I couldn't birth him the natural way, and now I cant feed him- and I feel completely and totally inadequate. I am feeling more and more like a failure. When I look into my baby's twinkling little eyes, I get lost in them and start to cry. I love him so intensely, and hope that my inability to do the best thing doesn't affect him. I cant stand the idea of even supplementing with formula. I have some here- because I do realize I will eventually need it, because my milk supply dwindles when I'm only pumping without nursing.

I'm sorry for sounding so blue. I need to get all of this off my chest. I realize there are many couples out there dying to start a family.

I never made it out of my pajamas. I never napped. I was awake for 20 hours, and when my husband came home from work at 3am, I handed iBaby to him and went to sleep. I feel guilty for that. He worked 12 hours and didn't have a chance to get his shoes off. He stayed awake until 6am, slept for 5 hours, woke up, made me a beautiful breakfast and packed his own lunch then went back to work for 12 more hours. I have to do better.

May Allah subhana wa ta'ala help me to be a better mother and wife, Ameen

Birth Story

2008-05-11T06:03:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum one and all ;)

We are moving beyond two weeks old, and life has changed dramatically. I am pleased to announce that iBaby now has a better understanding of night and day, and is actually sleeping 3hrs at once. Not bad mashaallah!

So for those of you that like more details, here are the rest:

Due to health reasons I had to be induced on a Friday night. The drive to the hospital was so exciting because now it was my turn, not someone elses. I work in the hospital I delivered at, so I always wondered what happened on the labor and delivery unit. The curiosity was killing me.

By 4am-ish, labor began, and by late morning, my membranes were ruptured and labor was in full swing. I still couldn't believe that I was having a baby, and my husband and I were full of anticipation. I just could not wait to push the little guy out, after a long pregnancy riddled with health concerns. The nurses and my doctor were phenomenal. You would never know that they were overflowing with patients and other deliveries by the individual care and attention they gave us.

The anesthesiologist came to place an epidural, and of course, he immediately asked my husband where he was from (he has an accent), and then assumed I converted to Islam for him!!!! You would think that someone with is degree of education and sensitivity training would know better. Anywho, it turned out he was from India and was interested in visiting my husband's country.... and then went on to say that all religions have their trials and troubles etc.....including his own (Hinduism). I left it alone, I just wanted to get rid of the pain.

By late afternoon, I was still 4cm, despite the wicked contractions. I had not made any progress, not even with the hard contractions and the addition of pitocin. By early evening my doctor discussed the inevitable: c-section. Two words I did not want to hear. I came all this way, and was almost at the halfway point! iBaby's head would not come down, and I carried Group B Strep, so the longer he stayed in there with membranes open, the greater the chance of infection. Of course, at that point my glucose kept dropping too low, and my blood pressure was getting too high, and I agreed to the surgery. I just wanted iBaby to be healthy and sound, and didn't really care how he came out.

Around 730pm ish I was wheeled into the O.R., it seemed so cold and sterile, and there was a rush of people moving about. I was strapped down, on the table, with plenty of reassurance from the entire team that everything was going to be OK, because I was terrified. When they re-medicated my epidural, it was different this time. I couldn't feel my legs, nor could move AT ALL. I was paralyzed. I couldn't even use my abdomen/chest muscles to clear my throat. Scary. Alhamdulillah it was only temporary. the shakes began, and I couldn't even speak. Once my husband was allowed in, I calmed down, and the surgery began (I didn't even know it!).

Alas, at 8pm, we heard the most robust cry, and I caught a glimpse of our munchkin on his way to be cleaned up by the nurses. He looked HUGE. Long, skinny feet. Perfect lips and chin. Black peach fuzz for hair. Just adorable. I was able to see him for about a minute and then he was whisked away to the nursery because his glucose was low.

About 4 hours later, after I left the recovery room, and I was stable, I finally got to hold our son. I was somewhat drugged up, but I remember feeling like I was on a cloud, he was so warm and soft and ALERT! He was so bright eyed and calm; we melted into him. I'll never forget it. Ever.

So, overall, it wasn't the ideal birth I had fantasized about. Allahu Alim, it was nothing like I had imagined. It was the opposite of what I hoped for. While I wasn't aiming for a totally natural birth, I mourn the no pushing, no release from the labor pains, no closure to the physical aspect of pregnancy and labor. I know in time, these feeling will leave me, as I work through them. We have a perfect, healthy baby. I could never ask for a better outcome. Alhamdulillah, we were placed in the hands of very capable people who provided excellent care.

The incision is healing well alhamdulillah. It still hurts, but it is not nearly as bad as days 4-5. That was the worst, and it's behind me now. My husband returns to work tomorrow (waaaaah), and I will be trapped in our house, as he works 12hr shifts and I cannot get down the steps myself, nor can I carry the baby down the steps, especially in his car seat. I can't drive yet anyway. I would like to take daily mini-walks, so perhaps I can arrange for a family member to help me with that. It really helps with the healing, and the weather is gorgeous right now. Spring is in full swing.

I had a very bad case of the blues until about 5 days ago-it was atrocious. I couldn't stop crying- everything overwhelmed and upset me, and the nursing seemed like a hopeless disaster. I felt like my body failed me again. To boot, no one mentioend baby blues- only post partum depression and how common it is, blah blah blah. So then I was worried on top of everything else, that I was abnormal, I was ashamed to say anything and kept it all in. Alhamdulillah a good friend shared her experience with me, and then I realized it was kind of normal. I branched out and asked others, and they all agreed. It felt like a weight had been lifted and I haven't been upset since (I kept forgetting I had surgery and that I need to heal too). I didn't ask for any visitors except immediate family, because I could barely get dressed and hobble around. I would get upset when visitors would just pop-in or call, as it seemed I was chained to my breast pump or the baby, and didn't feel comfortable with it yet (Im still not-it's not something I feel I can do in front of others). Nursing has been a real challenge, and we still have some kinks to work out. Inshaallah it will be successful. He's on pure breast milk thus far and I have not had to supplement with formula in a week! For now, he gets me 4 times a day, and nurses rigorously for about 30 minutes before passing out. It holds him for 3 hours! At night I need to give my parts a rest, as they are quite painful right now- hence he gets pumped milk in a bottle. He is happy either way ;) Mashallah he is thriving and gaining weight.

My husband has been great, in the hospital and at home. Cooking, cleaning, laundry, helping me nurse (he knows a lot more than I thought he would), changing and cleaning iBaby, grocery shopping and just loving us. He has been emotionally supportive through the mini break downs too. I love watching his relationship with our son flourish. It is just the purest joy.

I have to go now, iBaby ate 1 hour ago, so I should shower and grab a mini nap before he wakes up inshaallah. My breast pump is malfunctioning and I need to return it ASAP.

Thanks for reading, and I'll be back inshaallah!

iMuslimah & Co.

iBaby Stats

2008-05-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum all,

I've got a few minutes to spare, and I'm typing with one hand, so here are some details!

*Born two weeks ago
*7 lbs 9 1/2 oz
*22 in. long
*Loudest cry/squeal on earth
*Loves to be held, especially by Baaba
*Loathes diaper and clothing changes
*Big feet
*Covered in black fuzz from head to toe (and I love it!)

I actually managed to get a shower before 6pm, and it felt ohhh so good.

I'm dreading my husband's return to work Monday. He has been my rock.

New Man in My Life

2008-05-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

Alhamdulillah wu shukru lillah! iBaby has made his way into this world and into our hearts. I am totally smitten with him, and my husband has gone bonkers- totally nuts over our magnificent gift. I'm wiped out, super tired - so I will post more later. Just wanted to keep you all up to date! Please make dua for us, that we remain in the best iman, health, healing, and that the nursing keeps up. It's been very difficult, and tonight was the first night it seems hopeful, and I want to be successful. Thank you :)

Assalamu alaykum!

iMuslimah

A GINORMOUS Apology and Thank You to My E-Sisters

2008-04-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum sisters-

I have been SO self absorbed and just absent minded, that I didn't realize I changed my preferences on my blog to moderate all comments. I don't know what prompted me to do that, but I had over 36 fun comments to read this morning. I had been wondering why my blogs were so empty, and I just thought I wasn't interesting enough! Everyday i would check to see if anyone left me any tidbits and I would just close my laptop and walk away LOL! It really lifted me up this morning to see all your good thoughts and wishes, ideas and helpful tips! I just adore them and feel like a celebrity now!

Thank you thank you thank you for taking time to visit!

Jazzakullah Khair one and all, and I promise inshaallah to update you very soon (see last post before this one).

You are the best!

iMuslimah & iBaby to Be.

P.S. I've been adding links to your blogs slowly but surely, hope y'all don't mind!

3 Days to Go and Hopelessly Love Drunk

2008-04-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

As'salamu alaykum one and all.

If I don't go into labor this week, I will be induced Friday evening. Can you believe it? We cannot. Inshaallah it will be a smooth and sound process. We just want baby to be healthy.

I stopped working last Monday, and that gave me a nice opportunity to recover from the wicked case of bronchitis, as well as tie up some loose ends and get ready for baby. Nesting is complete. My husband can't stop smiling, as he is waiting patiently.

The past few days have been one of the most beautiful and peaceful periods in my life. It's been a time of reflection, supplication and expectation. Each prayer with my husband has become more precious, as I know that it will stop for a while after our son is born. I've never felt more IN love, in my life.

My husband and I decided to write letters for a keepsake book we have started for our baby. His is in Arabic, mine in English. I have always envied that my husband is multi lingual/literate. My husband wrote three pages, and read it to me last night when he came home from work at 3:00 am.

It was the most beautiful and emotionally raw/naked moment we have had in a long time. He bared his soul to his son, and when it became to much for him, he paused. The pauses, caused me flooding tears and immense joy. I never enjoyed hearing my husband's voice, so much, ever. His thoughts were humble, kind, educated, understanding, gentle and tender. I am still reeling. My GOD, I am incredibly blessed. What a beautiful gift. For that moment, time stood still, and I realized that we needed it.

When it was my turn to read my letter out loud, I couldn't. The tears were overwhelming, yet soothing. My husband just comforted me like never before. When I began reading, he became so quiet and still, he kept nodding his head, and then he began to cry.

Never in my life, do I recall such a beautiful moment in time. I know the best is yet to come, but this was one of those precious experiences that never leave a soul. My GOD, please know that I thank you from the bottom of my heart for it.

After we were done, he rested his head on my bosom and caressed my big belly in the dark. The most unusual bird, started singing alone- there were no others. That is when we realized it was time for fajr. The bird was singing and praising, and I didn't want it to stop. We prayed, reflected, then drifted off to the most peaceful sleep.

I never could have planned this.

Alhmdulillah wu shukru lillah for everything in this life and the next.

iMuslimah

Home S T R E T C H

2008-04-16T06:49:00.000-07:00

Salaams to one and all. I haven't been blogging much, let alone writing in my own. I hope all is well with each and every one of you inshaallah.

Status: 2 weeks left inshaallah! Tired. No EXHAUSTED. Sinus infection w/ bronchitis. Can't sleep because I am congested and my asthma is TOTALLY aggravated. Heartburn. Weird dreams. Non-stop trips to the loo. Blood Glucose well controlled.

Alhamdulillah everything comes from GOD. I'm not really complaining lol. I just can't wait!

I envy my habib, his gentle soul, as he sleeps like an angel, ever so peacefully, not even remotely aware of the chaos that will ensue upon us. Mashaallah he has been even more helpful and supportive. He's been cooking, washing dishes, putting up with my nesting insanity, and he just bought me the niftiest new cell phone LOL. We match now. He appreciates the little things I manage to get done at this point. He tied my shoes for me the other day. He's been doing the laundry since Ive been told not to lift anything heavy (we have to go the laundromat-ugh). I just feel he is going the extra mile for me, so I can enjoy what is left of the pregnancy, since I just stopped working. I felt great up until this past weekend, I felt unstoppable-full of energy. Now I am sapped.

I did learn a neat trick yesterday. My mom told me that if I press my curtains while wet, the wrinkles will come out. What a difference wrinkle free window dressings make! I'm very proud of my efforts! I just had this horrific urge to take them down, wash and iron them. It was torturing me. Today, my task for today will be to leave a to-do list for my mom and sisters whilst I am giving birth! Can you imagine? I would never do that, but they are willing-

I hope that inshaallah while I am laboring, my mom/sisters just come into our house, and maybe do quick straightening up of our apartment, nothing major.......to make sure I am set for visitors. My biggest request is to have fresh bedding for baby and I when we get home. That is it really. Nice crisp linens after being in hospital sheets will feel glorious. I have asked them to put the bassinet together, and to wash all the bedding that comes with it, once I go into labor.

Bags are packed. Camera batteries are charged. Gray hairs to be colored tomorrow night inshaallah. Will exfoliate feet and legs tonight. Eyebrows/stray whiskers to meet their demise this evening. Will attempt, if not in labor this weekend, to make a few one dish meals and freeze them.

This is what I packed, moms please tell me if anything is missing (2 day stay anticipated inshaallah):

1. toothpaste, floss, mouth wash
2. antiperspirant, favorite body wash and lotion
3. blow dryer, comb, brush, tweezer (for rogue sprouts), hair clip, rubber band.
4. make-up. I know.
5. ginormous sanitary napkins
6. pads for bra (in case I spring a leak), lanolin
7. stretchy nursing bras
8. 5 pairs bloomers
9. socks
10. giant terry robe that takes up half of bag, flip flops for shower
11. fluffy feminine slippers
12. 1 pair jammies that cover (for visitors), with easy access for baby.
13. al-amira hijab
14. outfit for baby, beanie cap, onesie, teeny socks, knitted sweater and blanket, baby comb
15. comfy nightgown to sleep/nurse in.
16. love letter for my habib. must remind husband how important he is to us, and that I could not do this without his gentle love and support.
17. give endless thanks and praise to Allah, always.

I *think* Ive got my bases covered. Maybe i should toss a book in there too, just in case.

Birth plan: I'm pretty flexible. I've had some serious discussions with my doctor who is totally awesome. We think alike. Pain meds: yes, epidural: undecided, probably no. Birthing coach: husband only. I do not want an audience. I do not want to see the birth. No mirrors! Low lights, quiet environment. Episiotomy: yes, please. I have no desire to be massaged or to tear. I feel so at peace with my plan AND my doctor. It's a good feeling. Ive thought a lot about my major choices, and hope inshaallah there are no complications. Should something arise, I feel safe knowing that my doctor is there for us.

May Allah protect us and keep us in his care, Ameen.

iMuslimah

Remedial Hijab Lessons

2008-03-22T05:44:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum y'all.

Yes, I am in need of remedial hijab lessons. I have resorted to wearing slip on Al-Amiras because of my inability to pin or wrap them right. No matter what I do, or how hard I try, they are lopsided, slip off, become twisted or look like they are objects on my head, not part of me. The biggest problem I have is slippage. Despite using underscarves, they always slip off, and I find myself hiding in dark places so I re-adjust them. I just cant get a snug fit! I can't even DREAM about wearing an oblong shayla, that just throws a monkey wrench in my routine.

Ive watched videos on you tube, illustrations on the web etc...... and I still can't get it right.

Any suggestions? I almost never go to the masjid.....that's a whole 'nother post.

Help!

Real Beauty

2008-03-17T22:57:00.000-07:00

Salaams sisters,

Check this out, some of you might have seen this, but if you haven't, grab your mothers, aunts, daughters and nieces, grandmothers, cousins, granddaughters and friends- it's a real eye opener:

http://www.campaignforrealbeauty.ca/film_fullscreen_evo.html

Even I, a 35 year old woman, hold myself to ridiculous standards sometimes. While I never fulfill them, I sometimes feel like "less than" a woman because I cannot.

Stupid huh?

6 Weeks To Go

2008-03-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

Assalamu alaykum,

I've got about 6 weeks left before my little brownie arrives. "My Little Brownie" is a nickname that my husband assigned to our little boy in-progress; which is a tribute to his absolute favorite snack, the fudge brownie lol.

I guess I am nesting; I am starting to freak out about our apartment; I feel like everything needs to be thrown out and re-decorated and re-organized. I can't stay focused, and seem to get nothing accomplished because I get distracted easily, plus I am totally e x h a u s t e d.

Went for fetal monitoring today, and I am pleased to report that my little sunshine would not stay still long enough for my doctor to get good tracings! Eventually he settled down, and all is well alhamdulillah. His size is average, not big, not small, which just reassures me that I am taking good care of my health and the gestational diabetes.

My husband and I elected not to have a baby shower. My family was very disappointed, but the concept is foreign and odd to my husband (not that that matters lol), but more importantly, I find it hard to celebrate without having baby in my arms. It is just how I feel. Sure, I would have liked all that attention, and a mountain of useful baby gifts, but we are good. We've managed to get everything we need thus far. We will have a good support system with my family living in such close proximity, and that is a tremendous blessing (my husband's family is overseas).

Thank you Allah, for providing everything in due time, for the health care we are receiving, the roof over our heads, for the love of our families and friends, for our faith, our jobs, our full stomachs, and for this very special experience and for a loving and respectful marriage.

Who Hijacked My Rainbow?

2008-03-13T22:13:00.000-07:00

Salaams.

I have loved and adored rainbows since childhood.

I don't know how the general public feels, but I am deeply annoyed that the symbol for "gay pride" is the rainbow. The rainbow, nature's prism, a rare sighting in most parts of the world, and also the most beautiful, has taken on new meaning for the public.

I have the most outrageous rainbow luggage strap, which is quite easy to spot amongst a sea of blue and black suitcases at the airport. My good friend and travel buddy (who happens to be female) was embarrassed to be seen with me, and when we checked into our hotel, the hostess behind the counter assumed we wanted one king bed! On another occasion, I returned home from San Francisco, with said luggage strap and rainbow trimmed socks LOL, and my mother actually thought I was trying to tell her something. My younger sister approached me whilst we were pigging out over a decadent lunch waiting for my dad to come out from heart surgery, and she told me that my mother was ready to attend a PFLAG meeting, because she was convinced that I was a lesbian. I guess a trip to SF coupled with the fact that I travelled to Hawaii with another woman is what caused her suspicion (?). I was in my late 20s, newly divorced, excelling in my career, and took a genuine interest in travelling. For the first time in life, I had saved some money, was in a good frame of mind after a traumatic divorce, and was ready to build new memories that weren't associated with my former husband. All I wanted was to have a little fun.

I recently treated myself to a new umbrella, but passed on the gorgeous, golf size one that could easily shelter my husband and myself, as well as look fantastic on a gray and gloomy day. Of course, you guessed it, each "pie slice" of the umbrella's protective barrier was a vibrant color of the rainbow. I know for sure, I would be walking alone if I carried it.

I won't even mention (ok, so I will mention it) my beautiful pastel, ribbed rainbow scarf that looked smashing with my tailored black wool Navy Pea Coat. (It mysteriously dissappeared after numerous negative comments).

My point is that, that I am just angry, that something so beautiful and awe-inspiring is linked to an alternative and controversial lifestyle, but maybe I should be angrier that others are too quick to judge and arrive at false conclusions.

Who's idea was this anyway?

Are we a nation obsessed with symbols?

Should I just go back and get the umbrella? I really admired it.

What do you think?

Bananas Don't Belong in Fruit Salad

2008-03-10T23:39:00.000-07:00

You've got to be kidding me. Why do people insist on putting bananas (and grapefruit) in fruit salad? They have NO PLACE, I tell you, NO PLACE. The creamy texture of the 'nana just insults the satisfying, fresh, and thirst quenching integrity of cherries, watermelons and grapes. And grapefruit? Delicious alone, plain old nasty when paired with other fruits.

Blasphemy. I'm disgusted.

Salaams.

Simple Gifts

2008-03-01T00:37:00.000-08:00

Scenery Created by Allah (swt)
Photographed by: iMuslimah
Mode: AP, dSLR
Manipulations: cropped, contrast adjustments
*Images may not be used or reproduced*

The ocean and it's surrounding nature are most magnificent during winter. Sometimes, just sometimes, I miss the wind whipping through my hair. The other times, I remember how blessed I am, to witness moments like these.

We Are Not Alone

2008-02-27T00:36:00.000-08:00

Scenery: created by Allah (swt)
Photographed by: iMuslimah
Mode: auto, point and shoot camera
Editing/Manipulations: desaturated, contrast adjusted
*Image may not be used or reproduced*

Help!

2008-02-26T22:37:00.000-08:00

Salaams peeps :)

I can't stand my layout. So many sisters have such beautiful pages, and I am just stuck. There aren't many template options on blogspot, can any offer some advice? I want to know how you do it! I would like to stay here, is there any way to import templates, preferably free/halal ones?

Help a sister out with an e-makeover.

Shukran ;)

Spoken Word

2008-02-25T23:52:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum all :)

I'm not talking about poetry....

Abud-Darda (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said, "Nothing will be heavier on the Day of Resurrection in the scale of the believer than good manners. Allah hates one who utters foul or course language" [At-Tirmidhi who said that it is good and authentic.]

Since becoming muslim, I am amazed by how specific and thorough our faith is! We are warned about everything, whether in the Holy Quran or through hadiths. It seems that for every issue we face in this life, it is addressed in our Book and sunnah. What a gift!

I hope I can raise my son, together with my husband to understand this very important and beautiful aspect of Islam, inshaallah.

...And it goes without say, that potty mouth will not be tolerated, and we will set the example inshaallah.

Minding our Manners

2008-02-22T18:26:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum all.

I purchased a really good booklet: "100 Ahadith about Islamic Manners", published by Darussalam. It is the "bees knees" for those of us who are new to Islam. I am really enjoying it; hence I will share with you, one hadith that spoke to me today:

Abu Harairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said, "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him show hospitality to his guest, and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him maintain good relations with his kin, and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him speak good or remian silent. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

These recommendations are sound but challenging at times. While I think I am doing ok in the hospitality department, I can work on the "speak good or remain silent" principle and try to improve my relationship with family members I don't see often, or at all.

I haven't seen my father in three years....

Unknown

2008-02-16T01:23:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum ;)

For those of you who have been kind enough to read my pointless blog, I thank you.

We are expecting our first munchkin, and while I am in my mid thirties and have had the benefit of watching my siblings raise their children; I don't REALLY know what to expect. Here I am, with my unborn son squirming around in my belly, loving him endlessly and wishing my due date would get here. I have this intimate relationship with him already, but once again, I have no idea what comes next.

I will love him more than life.

My love for my husband will continue to increase exponentially.

I am willing to LIVE for my son, not just give my life.

I will love rocking him to sleep.

I will be nervous about so many people holding him.

I will be anxious to inspect him from head to toe at birth.

I think his hair will be as fine as kitten fur.

I will experience true exhaustion like never before.

I will feel guilty and cry my eyes out when I return to work full-time.

I will forever cherish this gift that Allah swt has bestowed upon us.

That's about all I know right now. I hope I am right. Inshallah I hope it's better than what I think I know. Alhamdulillah for everything.

In Loving Memory

2008-02-15T01:03:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum one and all.

Subhanala.

Several years ago, newly muslim, I wandered into a chat room for muslimahs that changed my life forever. I met the young woman that introduced me to my husband several years ago. A few weeks ago, Ukhti passed away after an ambitious campaign against a serious illness.

I will never forget her dedication to, and her indepth knowledge of the deen and her connection to the ummah. I will forever cherish her character and honesty; I will always have a special place for her in my heart, for the good deed she did for my husband and I.

Most importantly, all praise and thanks is due to Allah for sending Ukhti into my life. He truly works in mysterious ways.

May Allah subhana wa tala grant Ukhti peace and warmth in her grave, and a most special place in jennah inshaallah.

I want a Burquini

2008-02-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum sisters and brothers- especially to whom might have the same internal struggle- I MISS SWIMMING.

I miss frolicking through the waves on a brutal summer day, letting the current whisk me away weightlessly, tossing my cares and worries to the wind and enjoying one of Allah's most magnificent creations: the ocean. Let's face it folks, I would even take a chlorinated swimming pool at this pool, if one were available.

For some reason, one of the most difficult modifications I have made to my lifestyle since becoming muslim, has been the removal of aquatic activity. Recently I found the genuine Burquini online, and my heart went a pitter-patter. My husband and I thought seriously about it, and then decided against it. There is just too much controversy over the subject. The thoughts we keep coming back to are that, when I emerge from the water, the shape of my body will be visible and there will be men present. I realize my intentions are not to fraternize with the opposite sex, but I am not comfortable with the idea. Doesn't that stink? There is not a single "women's only" swim club ANYWHERE in my region. Not to mention, the beaches are all co-ed and very crowded.

I wish there was a gym with a real athletic swimming pool, for women only. Swimming is an awesome all-over body work out, and I have received the most benefit from this excercise in the past (chronic back pain sufferer here). I would also love for one beach to be for religiously conservative communities (I know, I know, wishful and outlandish thinkging here), where a family could picnic and witness a salacious ocean sunset and not have to face men and women in thongs making out on beach blankets. I lament that when my baby comes, the lifestyle I enjoyed so much as a child, will not be available for him- pales and shovels, sand castles, digging for crabs, collecting sea shells...... there is so much joy and delight in these simple activities.

This is where I am supposed to cling to my belief...that the rewards in the next life will be greater than anything I can imagine here inshaAllah. I find myself, forgetting this sometimes, and feeling deprived. I suppose that is what makes me human. I don't know- my thinking is flawed and I cannot seem to reverse it.

Why does this mean so much to me, when there are so many other really awful hardships being faced by muslims everday???? I actually feel rotten for having these thoughts. Alhamdulillah I have so much that I am grateful for.

Ma Salaama.

Have you ever???

2008-02-05T22:55:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum :)

Today was interesting. I had a prenatal appointment that sort of went like this:

Sonographer: Hi there (insert pleasant small talk here)
Me: (silent, non-verbalized thought) Save the small talk and show me my baby.
Sonographer: Is it just your husband that is muslim or are you muslim too?
Me: Alhamdulillah I am muslim.
Sonographer: Oh, so you converted for him after marriage?
Me: No, I converted for ME before we met.
Sonographer: Oh.

I did not ask her a single question in return. I am slightly annoyed with myself for satisfying her curiosity. I am a hijabi; my husband was not with me.......

I'm Already Sweet Enough

2008-02-02T10:15:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been having wicked urges and cravings for things I wouldn't normally eat. A colossal vanilla ice cream sunade smothered with hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, bananans, walnuts and rainbow sprinkles would make my heart sing, but first I would indulge in a huge greasy pizza covered with extra cheese.

This is not wise, nor is it possible. From day 1 of pregnancy, because I carry extra weight already, I was terrified of poisoning my baby with garbage, and I was afraid of developing Gestational Diabetes. Low and behold, three weeks ago, I failed my glucose tolerance test, and now have to monitor my blood glucose 5 times daily. My fingertips are sore, and I am a little frustrated that I can't give in to a single craving BUT I am happy to report that all my hard work and prevention tactics from the beginning of pregnancy have paid off! I had to adjust my diet very little, and I have not had a single abnormal fingerstick. I haven't gained an ounce thus far (and this OK for me as per my OB/GYN, it might not be ok for everyone). I do need to step up and be more active, and my doctor recommended walking.

Essentially the test that I failed demonstrated that I have the inability to process sugars, and if I do not watch my intake, there could be complications. Inshaallah the condition should resolve itself after delivery. Inshaallah I will remain good until the end. I do understand that this can change towards the end of pregnancy so I must continue to do my best and keep my faith strong that Allah (swt) will do what is best for my unborn baby and myself.

Complications that can arise if the sugars are not well controlled are: insulin therapy (sometimes even watching the diet is not enough), large babies, c-sections, and baby not being able to stabilize his own blood sugar after birth (thus being whisked away from me until he can- which can impede my ability to nurse him, and that kills me). G.D. also means that later in my life, I have a good chance of becoming non-insulin dependent diabetic...so if I get a handle on it now, it won't be a surprise, nor will I struggle with the lifestyle changes. I might even be able to prevent it!

My wish inshallah is to continue on this healthy path after he is born, so I may be an example for him as to how to nourish and care for the bodies Allah (swt) has loaned to us. I don't want him to have the same issues I've had with weight, and I want my husband and I to enjoy an active, outdoors lifestyle with our little miracle!

Time for lunch....

As'salamu alaykum

Who am I ?

2008-02-01T17:55:00.000-08:00

As'salamu alaykum ;)

I am starting to realize that I am no longer who I thought I was. Does that make sense? If I analyze my feelings, common sense tells me that my identity is not defined by the things I used to do, but by my virtures, moral compass and intentions. The idea that I will never be alone, ever again, is scaring me. I am more nervous and aware of my surroundings at all times, and have an instinct to always be close to home. The notion of being seperated from my husband (for any any reason I can think of) brings anxiety. Now, every thought and deed revolves around my unborn son, impending motherhood, and my husband. It seems like a very natural progression, and life has taught me that whenever there is a new experience on the horizon, balance is key to enjoyment. I am alomst certain that I will adjust to my new role, as I find myself aching to embrace my new baby, in Allah's (swt) time inshaAllah.

There are times when I ponder the days when it was just 'me'. I came and went as I saw fit, never having to consider anyone else. I rarely cooked lol, shopped at will, journeyed into the night for prolonged exposure photography (alone, and yes- stupid) and if I left my underthings on the bathroom floor for a day, it was no sweat. There was nothing more satisfying that logging onto to travelocity and booking a flight on a whims notice. Alhamdulillah living alone was a valuable and rich experience that I will never forget. The mistakes, failures and successes will never leave me, and I hope that the lessons learned will serve me well in my new role as "mom". I wouldn't trade my married/family life for anything in the world, I am just learning how to navigate through the next chapter.....

Hooked

2008-02-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

I made these! I adore crocheting sweaters and blankets for babies. It is a very
satisfying hobby, and when I give these items away as gifts, they are treasured, even though they are imperfect.

Interested? Give it a try! I learned from a booklet that came with all the fixins'. It's super easy to get started :)