I once described my idea of the perfect wedding and I am so thrilled that I have finally witnessed it.i attended my cousin's wedding a week ago,there were no bells,whistles or flower arrangements and it was just perfect!
Simple ,serene, surprising.everything about this wedding was inspiring.The union here took centre stage ,which I normally find dulled by all the finery.there was nothing stuffy or pretentious about it and all the guests enjoyed what was a beautiful comfortable evening.it was capped off by the bride in a simple Abaya(Hijaab) ,leading her mum in law around the hall,making introductions and mingling.
I wish the couple eternal happiness and ease in this new phase of their lives. Now if only we could get this style of a wedding trending...
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Tuesday 27 November 2012
Monday 1 October 2012
List mania
A while ago I read a book entitled love:unlisted.I would have classified it as fluff(chick lit) had it not had such a profound lesson.It basically centered around a woman who kept a book with her,in which she would list the pros and cons of all those she knew.Freaky?yes,but it got me thinking that we do that without realizing it,except that we usually internalize our lists.And like the woman in the story it could get us into trouble too..
You might agree that being a good judge of character is important for ones own safety,but if it takes on the aforementioned style of 'listing' I think it would lend to an incredibly judgemental mind frame.And seeing as how we all have faults ( in abundance ) that's a trait we could well do without.if we are 'listing' lets try to keep it positive,focus on the good ( here's hoping I take my own advice)
So in the spirit of steering away from negative listing ,i'll share with you a list of 10 random things most people would probably not know about me
1. My childhood ambitions included becoming a pilot,a sports manager and a pediatrician
2. I am clumsy ( the trip over my own feet type)
3. I'm a recovering 'sports-aholic'
4. All my phobias start with an A ; Acrophobia(fear of heights) ,Astraphobia (fear of lightning and thunder) and Agyrophobia ( fear of crossing roads)
5. I am 22 going on 10,I have yet to lose interest in comics,fairy tales and rhymes.
6. I absolutely despise music and vulgarity
7. I compulsively declutter( material things weigh me down)
8. I was the family clown/ entertainer/dweeb(it included a brief phase of being an Indian Alligator)
9.Im a sucker for print media,chocolate and Rooibos tea
10.I struggled compiling this list,and more so with the realization that I'm about as interesting as a box (hah,take that ego)
Until you read again
Ma'assalaam
You might agree that being a good judge of character is important for ones own safety,but if it takes on the aforementioned style of 'listing' I think it would lend to an incredibly judgemental mind frame.And seeing as how we all have faults ( in abundance ) that's a trait we could well do without.if we are 'listing' lets try to keep it positive,focus on the good ( here's hoping I take my own advice)
So in the spirit of steering away from negative listing ,i'll share with you a list of 10 random things most people would probably not know about me
1. My childhood ambitions included becoming a pilot,a sports manager and a pediatrician
2. I am clumsy ( the trip over my own feet type)
3. I'm a recovering 'sports-aholic'
4. All my phobias start with an A ; Acrophobia(fear of heights) ,Astraphobia (fear of lightning and thunder) and Agyrophobia ( fear of crossing roads)
5. I am 22 going on 10,I have yet to lose interest in comics,fairy tales and rhymes.
6. I absolutely despise music and vulgarity
7. I compulsively declutter( material things weigh me down)
8. I was the family clown/ entertainer/dweeb(it included a brief phase of being an Indian Alligator)
9.Im a sucker for print media,chocolate and Rooibos tea
10.I struggled compiling this list,and more so with the realization that I'm about as interesting as a box (hah,take that ego)
Until you read again
Ma'assalaam
Wednesday 26 September 2012
The difference is from the heart
I sometimes go through my blog to give myself an idea of my progress,if any and also because Im a bit finicky when it comes to my writing style(more about that in a later post) .anyway,today i was struck with the thought,that sincerity so strongly affects the nature and outcome of actions,my blog being no exception.
Reading over a few of the posts It was so easy to recall my mind frame when I had written them. I mostly write when I'm feeling inspired but there were some that I had written light heatedly ,or simply on a whim. And the difference is incredible! The ones that are from the heart speak to the heart whereas most others just spill out messily onto the page.it's like when someone comes to you for advise,you can tell them what they want to hear or you can with sincerity tell them the truth no matter how painful it may be to hear .the former will appease them for that time but they will still have that problem,whilst the latter might offend them initially they will eventually see its light.I guess what I'm getting at is that in whatever we do sincerity needs to be present.if we are doing and saying things insincerely ,they ultimately become meaningless no matter how good they initially appeared to be. So whether we are advising, praising or expressing how we feel ,we need to be certain that it's coming from the heart. Else we eventually turn into robots,people pleasers ,shallow ,deceitful and fake!
May the Almighty make us sincere in our public and private lives,and above all grant us sincerity in worshipping Him.Aameen.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Reading over a few of the posts It was so easy to recall my mind frame when I had written them. I mostly write when I'm feeling inspired but there were some that I had written light heatedly ,or simply on a whim. And the difference is incredible! The ones that are from the heart speak to the heart whereas most others just spill out messily onto the page.it's like when someone comes to you for advise,you can tell them what they want to hear or you can with sincerity tell them the truth no matter how painful it may be to hear .the former will appease them for that time but they will still have that problem,whilst the latter might offend them initially they will eventually see its light.I guess what I'm getting at is that in whatever we do sincerity needs to be present.if we are doing and saying things insincerely ,they ultimately become meaningless no matter how good they initially appeared to be. So whether we are advising, praising or expressing how we feel ,we need to be certain that it's coming from the heart. Else we eventually turn into robots,people pleasers ,shallow ,deceitful and fake!
May the Almighty make us sincere in our public and private lives,and above all grant us sincerity in worshipping Him.Aameen.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Wednesday 19 September 2012
Lazy day biscuits
So I'm a baker as most of you would know but I don't share any tips or recipes here.i apologize for that major oversight in the past year and a half.*blush* anyway I am going to dedicate at least a quarter of my posts now to my passion and hope you share your yummies and suggestions with me as well.
This recipe is an absolute favorite.And tho it involves no actual baking it still deserves its place here. So let's get into it.it's called Lazy day biscuits and I make them pretty often.Not coz I have many lazy days ,okay well I do, but they are really that good!
Ingredients
90 grams butter
60 ml condensed milk
2 tblsp honey or golden syrup
1 tblsp cocoa
1 pkt Marie biscuit crushed
Method
Melt together the first three ingredients in a heavy based saucepan over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the crushed Marie biscuits. Pat the mixture into a lightly greased tray . Decorate with melted chocolate,allow to cool and cut into squares.Deeelish!!
All done in under 10 minutes and they usually disappear in under 2 days. You can go crazy with the variations. Add marshmallows,nuts,rice crispies,caramel,coconut or anything you fancy.this recipe is not my own,it's adapted from the book Sweet 73 by Waheeda Tayob. Its packed with Simple ,great tasting treats cover to cover,and thus far flop proof
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
This recipe is an absolute favorite.And tho it involves no actual baking it still deserves its place here. So let's get into it.it's called Lazy day biscuits and I make them pretty often.Not coz I have many lazy days ,okay well I do, but they are really that good!
Ingredients
90 grams butter
60 ml condensed milk
2 tblsp honey or golden syrup
1 tblsp cocoa
1 pkt Marie biscuit crushed
Method
Melt together the first three ingredients in a heavy based saucepan over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the crushed Marie biscuits. Pat the mixture into a lightly greased tray . Decorate with melted chocolate,allow to cool and cut into squares.Deeelish!!
All done in under 10 minutes and they usually disappear in under 2 days. You can go crazy with the variations. Add marshmallows,nuts,rice crispies,caramel,coconut or anything you fancy.this recipe is not my own,it's adapted from the book Sweet 73 by Waheeda Tayob. Its packed with Simple ,great tasting treats cover to cover,and thus far flop proof
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Thursday 6 September 2012
"Your aspirations are your possibilities"
Throughout my schooling career I was adamant that I would one day succeed in the corporate environment.tho my career choice changed with each academic year ,I maintained that I would someday make it as a career woman.but come the end of my matric year I think I was most surprised when my heart was inclined to an entirely different pursuit.
Mid January 2008 I enrolled at a girls Madrasah.my decision evoking reactions ranging from shocked to doubtful ,regardless I was certain that this was the way forward.my experience at Madrasah is one that will be forever rooted firmly in my heart. The atmosphere at Madrasah is amazing,one that can only be fully comprehended and appreciated when you are actually there.at Madrasah I learnt the things that a 12 year academic education failed to even touch on.of the thousands of aspects i was taught the ones that readily come to mind are; Nothing or Noone can be more important than Allah and His commandments.With Allah there is ease and the answer to every problem.The ikhlaas of the Kalima lies in staying away from forbidden things.A believer should live between hope and fear.From the experiences of our Nabi SAW and firsthand i was shown Family extends beyond the ties of blood.there is nothing lost from what we share,but rather there is increase and blessing. No matter how much knowledge we acquire there will always be something new to learn and certainly knowledge without practice is pointless.
Each phase of our lives comes with challenges,Madrasah was no different.there were some days when Shaytaan would try to coax me away from my goal,but through the mercy of Allah I completed and I have no regrets. My educators have worked tirelessly to instill the Love for Allah and Nabi SAW in us,leaving a rich legacy for us to aspire to.I make dua that every Muslima is blessed with such an opportunity ,to be actively involved in the acquiring and imparting of Deen. Aameen.
Mid January 2008 I enrolled at a girls Madrasah.my decision evoking reactions ranging from shocked to doubtful ,regardless I was certain that this was the way forward.my experience at Madrasah is one that will be forever rooted firmly in my heart. The atmosphere at Madrasah is amazing,one that can only be fully comprehended and appreciated when you are actually there.at Madrasah I learnt the things that a 12 year academic education failed to even touch on.of the thousands of aspects i was taught the ones that readily come to mind are; Nothing or Noone can be more important than Allah and His commandments.With Allah there is ease and the answer to every problem.The ikhlaas of the Kalima lies in staying away from forbidden things.A believer should live between hope and fear.From the experiences of our Nabi SAW and firsthand i was shown Family extends beyond the ties of blood.there is nothing lost from what we share,but rather there is increase and blessing. No matter how much knowledge we acquire there will always be something new to learn and certainly knowledge without practice is pointless.
Each phase of our lives comes with challenges,Madrasah was no different.there were some days when Shaytaan would try to coax me away from my goal,but through the mercy of Allah I completed and I have no regrets. My educators have worked tirelessly to instill the Love for Allah and Nabi SAW in us,leaving a rich legacy for us to aspire to.I make dua that every Muslima is blessed with such an opportunity ,to be actively involved in the acquiring and imparting of Deen. Aameen.
Wednesday 22 August 2012
Ramadaan 1433
It came ,it left me in awe and I hope it conquered atleast a few of my nafs( evil desires) Inshaa Allah. my favourite time of the year has passed and it was a very busy one(which should explain my absence). like with so many other things it left me with a great feeling of sadness,not for what the month was ,but for what we now make of it.
Each year we experience a heightened sense of spirituality during Ramadaan,and that's how it should be. But What gets me down (excuse the pun) ,is how after the high,we fall almost flat on our faces the very next day or in the week that follows.the day of eid becomes a showcase of the wrong ideals ,not the day of prizegiving as we have been taught. Immodesty and gossiping are of the evils that almost immediately slip back into our lives.There are many exceptions to this but I think we all can relate in some way to how we see our efforts go in vain by our OWN hands.
WE can make the choice to continue to guard our eyes ,our ears ,our limbs and minds. And WE can make dua that Allah guides our hearts to what is good eternally. It's up to us to decide if WE have truly loved ,appreciated and honored the amazing month that has left us.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Each year we experience a heightened sense of spirituality during Ramadaan,and that's how it should be. But What gets me down (excuse the pun) ,is how after the high,we fall almost flat on our faces the very next day or in the week that follows.the day of eid becomes a showcase of the wrong ideals ,not the day of prizegiving as we have been taught. Immodesty and gossiping are of the evils that almost immediately slip back into our lives.There are many exceptions to this but I think we all can relate in some way to how we see our efforts go in vain by our OWN hands.
WE can make the choice to continue to guard our eyes ,our ears ,our limbs and minds. And WE can make dua that Allah guides our hearts to what is good eternally. It's up to us to decide if WE have truly loved ,appreciated and honored the amazing month that has left us.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Sunday 15 July 2012
Dear ones
Hugs! Hugs! Hugs! Oh how I've missed you. It's been a long five weeks away but I hope what I've learnt during this time and what I will share in future blogs regarding it,will more than make up for my absence.
I wanted my 'return blog' to be a light hearted one but there's a message that I must,must share. Let me get straight into it. Life should be labelled 'fragile.handle with care' coz it is so undeniably precious. But the thing is that even if we value our own lives , we forget to attach that importance to the lives of those around us. We bicker with and moan about and back bite and manipulate the ones we claim to love(and others). We fail to realize the rights others have over us and how we should protect ourselves by protecting their rights. We also fail to understand a most basic principle,that we should treat others the way we would like to be treated. I am the first in need of this reminder and I hope I can wrap my brain and heart around it to be truly grateful for the gift that is life.
May the Almighty Allah save us from pettiness and prejudice and may we all fully appreciate the lives we have been blessed to be a part of.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
I wanted my 'return blog' to be a light hearted one but there's a message that I must,must share. Let me get straight into it. Life should be labelled 'fragile.handle with care' coz it is so undeniably precious. But the thing is that even if we value our own lives , we forget to attach that importance to the lives of those around us. We bicker with and moan about and back bite and manipulate the ones we claim to love(and others). We fail to realize the rights others have over us and how we should protect ourselves by protecting their rights. We also fail to understand a most basic principle,that we should treat others the way we would like to be treated. I am the first in need of this reminder and I hope I can wrap my brain and heart around it to be truly grateful for the gift that is life.
May the Almighty Allah save us from pettiness and prejudice and may we all fully appreciate the lives we have been blessed to be a part of.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Thursday 7 June 2012
Mummy wisdoms from a male
I often think of the challenges our mothers faced raising us and if it differed much to what we face now.After reading many posts in the pregnancy and motherhood forums I follow,it's clear that tho decades apart the pressure of others on new mums remains the same.i couldn't quite put it into words and then I stumbled upon this which is so incredibly apt and surprisingly written by a male
"When every single person around a young mother wants to tell her what to do and what not to do, why her child is crying and how she is feeding the child inadequately, then more confusion and hurt is caused than education or solution to the matter. Babies will cry just like we all did at one stage and it is only correct to say a word of encouragement to the mother or remain silent. Interference into matters of feeding and upbringing can be the most annoying, depressing and stressful experience a young mother has. Each child is unique and not all solutions will be applicable. Criticism of young mothers by their own family members or friends shows that they do not really care but simply want to prove they know better without actually providing a positive silent solution in the most loving manner. No mother intentionally causes pain and grief to her baby but rather she is very keen on providing every bit of comfort. This status is dedicated to mothers who have suffered at the hands of "know it alls" who will not leave them alone! May the Almighty bless us all! Aameen"
It's tough being a new mum but it's extremely rewarding.i think new mums need all the confidence they can get and should be given the time to develop this and hone their maternal instincts.with that said I hope I don't morph into a know It all when interacting with a mum newer than I .
Until you read again
Ma,assalam
"When every single person around a young mother wants to tell her what to do and what not to do, why her child is crying and how she is feeding the child inadequately, then more confusion and hurt is caused than education or solution to the matter. Babies will cry just like we all did at one stage and it is only correct to say a word of encouragement to the mother or remain silent. Interference into matters of feeding and upbringing can be the most annoying, depressing and stressful experience a young mother has. Each child is unique and not all solutions will be applicable. Criticism of young mothers by their own family members or friends shows that they do not really care but simply want to prove they know better without actually providing a positive silent solution in the most loving manner. No mother intentionally causes pain and grief to her baby but rather she is very keen on providing every bit of comfort. This status is dedicated to mothers who have suffered at the hands of "know it alls" who will not leave them alone! May the Almighty bless us all! Aameen"
It's tough being a new mum but it's extremely rewarding.i think new mums need all the confidence they can get and should be given the time to develop this and hone their maternal instincts.with that said I hope I don't morph into a know It all when interacting with a mum newer than I .
Until you read again
Ma,assalam
Tuesday 29 May 2012
Slipping away
after my 'free Friday' post ,the week that followed was anything but.i guess I deserved it for gloating,hehe,tho I must ask which new mum can resist not sharing that type of info? I digress,so let me swiftly get into todays Blog before I am the first to miss the message I have in mind.
I was full of blog post ideas this past week but I had no time to gather and organize my thoughts neither to remember them all nor type them out.I wrote a piece of poetry which remins incomplete,formulated a few 1 or 2 line quotes ,had passing eccentric ideas and deep thoughts yet nothing concrete.my mind was constantly multitasking and would not settle down.i realized that when you are moving so fast in pursuit of materialistic goals you lose track of the important things.and tho you might think you're moving along deftly ,at the end of the day you still end up wondering what happened to the time and how you did not achieve all the things you set out to do.In the grand scheme of things it means our time on earth is running out,surreptitiously at some times blatantly at others.either way we need to maximize whatever we have left inshaAllah.
Time is a gift.its been said repeatedly but there's no contesting the fact.a precious ,precious gift which if not used wisely can contribute to our downfall,Allah forbid.I recalled the following Hadith and hope to remind myself of it when I have some time to spare again.
'Take benefit of five before five:
Your youth before your old age,
Your health before your sickness,
Your wealth before your poverty,
Your free-time before your preoccupation and
Your life before your death.'
[Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam - Al-Haakim,
Al-Baihaqee: Saheeh]
May we be guided to use the time we have to 'build' and 'beatify' our palaces in Jannah,and not to throw it away in efforts that will be of no avail in the next life. Aameen
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
I was full of blog post ideas this past week but I had no time to gather and organize my thoughts neither to remember them all nor type them out.I wrote a piece of poetry which remins incomplete,formulated a few 1 or 2 line quotes ,had passing eccentric ideas and deep thoughts yet nothing concrete.my mind was constantly multitasking and would not settle down.i realized that when you are moving so fast in pursuit of materialistic goals you lose track of the important things.and tho you might think you're moving along deftly ,at the end of the day you still end up wondering what happened to the time and how you did not achieve all the things you set out to do.In the grand scheme of things it means our time on earth is running out,surreptitiously at some times blatantly at others.either way we need to maximize whatever we have left inshaAllah.
Time is a gift.its been said repeatedly but there's no contesting the fact.a precious ,precious gift which if not used wisely can contribute to our downfall,Allah forbid.I recalled the following Hadith and hope to remind myself of it when I have some time to spare again.
'Take benefit of five before five:
Your youth before your old age,
Your health before your sickness,
Your wealth before your poverty,
Your free-time before your preoccupation and
Your life before your death.'
[Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam - Al-Haakim,
Al-Baihaqee: Saheeh]
May we be guided to use the time we have to 'build' and 'beatify' our palaces in Jannah,and not to throw it away in efforts that will be of no avail in the next life. Aameen
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Friday 18 May 2012
free friday
its today, its today. hehe,my free friday,that means just me and my family and my Creator time.BLISS!
Dont get me wrong,i love my work.sometimes its nice not having to rush and to worry about running to the oven.i think my lil man feels it too,he follows his routine effortlessly when i have a stress free day.with all this free time on my hands what do i do with it?and productively? hmm, i cant sit still unless with a book or ipad in my hand so i will probably do just that.unless my feet get really itchy and i hear my mixer calling my name.
so to all of you under a bit of pressure or stress,this is what i have found for you
"For fast-acting relief, try slowing down."
Lily Tomlin
- 1. One of the best ways to relax is to turn off the television, the computer, and any other item that can prove to be distracting.
Lay back in a recliner, a sofa, or even a bed and close your eyes. . Do not allow your mind to focus on things that cause stress. Just focus on relaxing thoughts and slow breathing exercises.
- 2. Many individuals who indulge in a warm bath or a warm shower find that this is a very relaxing way to rinse stress away.
- 3. There are many different types of exercises that may prove to be relaxing.-(from todays woman and health.com)
-4.laugh
-5. a meal or visit with loved ones
-6.connecting with nature
-7.and the ultimate relaxant- Praying!
until you read again
hope your weekend and week to come are stress free,InshaAllah
Ma'assalaam
Dont get me wrong,i love my work.sometimes its nice not having to rush and to worry about running to the oven.i think my lil man feels it too,he follows his routine effortlessly when i have a stress free day.with all this free time on my hands what do i do with it?and productively? hmm, i cant sit still unless with a book or ipad in my hand so i will probably do just that.unless my feet get really itchy and i hear my mixer calling my name.
so to all of you under a bit of pressure or stress,this is what i have found for you
"For fast-acting relief, try slowing down."
Lily Tomlin
- 1. One of the best ways to relax is to turn off the television, the computer, and any other item that can prove to be distracting.
Lay back in a recliner, a sofa, or even a bed and close your eyes. . Do not allow your mind to focus on things that cause stress. Just focus on relaxing thoughts and slow breathing exercises.
- 2. Many individuals who indulge in a warm bath or a warm shower find that this is a very relaxing way to rinse stress away.
- 3. There are many different types of exercises that may prove to be relaxing.-(from todays woman and health.com)
-4.laugh
-5. a meal or visit with loved ones
-6.connecting with nature
-7.and the ultimate relaxant- Praying!
until you read again
hope your weekend and week to come are stress free,InshaAllah
Ma'assalaam
Tuesday 15 May 2012
s.o.s
i follow a few pregnancy and motherhood forums and ive noticed a large number of ladies with the following problem.i call it triple m- moody ,miserable motherhood or what is more commonly known as post natal depression.
its nothing to be ashamed of.I,to a certain extent noticed a change in my behaviour after giving birth.it is understandable considering what a woman goes through during pregnancy and childbirth,it all takes a toll.the problem is that it should not negatively imprint on your behaviour permanently. i researched pnd and i was surprised to note that it often goes undiagnosed and worse,untreated. the latter is possibly lethal,where some mothers end their or their kids life.
there is light at the end of the tunnel and it involves the use of simple solutions.
Pray.constantly and sincerely.there is nothing that puts you more at ease than dua(prayer)
Take care.look after your body and mind by eating well and resting
Talk! if you feel you are constantly down talk to your spouse ,parents or someone you trust.
Relax.take time off for you, a massage,tea with a friend,read a book.
Professional help.seek counsel if symptoms persist.
Link up. form a support group with other new moms.(revised from pregnancy sites)
realize your value as a mother and the incredible status you have been blessed with.cherish your role and remember that “Verily, with hardship, there is relief (94:6)” Al Quraan
until you read again
ma"assalam
my sugar sister gets sweeter
i know i did a post of her work recently but i could not resist not posting these.shes trying her hand or rather her eye at photography and the results are gorgeous.have a look :)
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she is one of those 'if you apply your mind you can achieve it' people.so i hope you aspire to the same.
until you read again
ma'assalam
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she is one of those 'if you apply your mind you can achieve it' people.so i hope you aspire to the same.
until you read again
ma'assalam
Sunday 13 May 2012
killer reads
im not a book worm,im a book snake,a big one.i read until the wee hours of the morning,taking turns to rest each eye and i can never get enough.at the moment im binging on my James Patterson collection,as gory as they are i cant say no to books that are so well written.
i classify books that i read as either 1.fluff,yeah all you chick lit lovers know all about that.
2. the back in the day books,memoirs,wars,history books basically which i usually avoid except if they are Islamic.
3.horrific,think stephen king or goosebumps from our childhood days.lol
4.peter pan style books,fantasy and adventure
5. soppy,those drama filled books that you cant put down when you are pmsing
6.cops and robbers.action ,thrillers,suspense
7.Islamic,self explanatory and my favorite
so back to james patterson,his books are often a combo of 1-6 .maybe not so much 1,2 and 5 but those elements are included.i think his work can best be described as disturbingly brilliant,his ideas are novel,he moves at break neck speed and the books are borderline psycho.hehe,all in all they are reads that will keep u engrossed cover to cover or leave u tossing and turning come bedtime. i suggest like with all books,you make up your own mind about them.let me know what you think and what are some of your favorites.
until you read again
ma'assalam
i classify books that i read as either 1.fluff,yeah all you chick lit lovers know all about that.
2. the back in the day books,memoirs,wars,history books basically which i usually avoid except if they are Islamic.
3.horrific,think stephen king or goosebumps from our childhood days.lol
4.peter pan style books,fantasy and adventure
5. soppy,those drama filled books that you cant put down when you are pmsing
6.cops and robbers.action ,thrillers,suspense
7.Islamic,self explanatory and my favorite
so back to james patterson,his books are often a combo of 1-6 .maybe not so much 1,2 and 5 but those elements are included.i think his work can best be described as disturbingly brilliant,his ideas are novel,he moves at break neck speed and the books are borderline psycho.hehe,all in all they are reads that will keep u engrossed cover to cover or leave u tossing and turning come bedtime. i suggest like with all books,you make up your own mind about them.let me know what you think and what are some of your favorites.
until you read again
ma'assalam
Friday 4 May 2012
Buried in books
Yup it's that time again,with Every second person up to their elbows in textbooks and tutorials and on scavenger hunts for past year exam papers.whilst I'm not one of those individuals presently,I thought I'd share some tips and advice so that the studious don't attempt to gorge out their eyeballs with their hb's.
1.body basics
Yes a healthy body = a healthy mind
Eat well,sleep well ,exercise.it is that simple.go for power foods at breakfast time,oats ,eggs ,bananas,smoothies etc.think high energy but slow releasing energy foods
Keep your Meals light,snack regularly on brain food(almonds) and keep hydrated.
2.strategise
He who fails to plan plans to fail
Draw up a timetable ,set realistic daily goals and stick to them.there is a sort of comfort in discipline and structure.
3.environment
Make your study environment conducive to your study needs.choose a room that is free from distractions.a peaceful environment with all your resources at your disposal (sometimes hunting for stationery sets you back a good few minutes)
4.rewards
When you set a study goal accompany it with a reward for your efforts.give yourself a break every forty minutes or so,your mind wont switch off and will be rejuvenated with the treat you have chosen for yourself .also remind yourself of what you are studying towards,eg,your degree
5.pray
Make dua often .it eliminates anxiety,grants you release when you are under pressure and promotes a healthy frame of mind.exactly what you need for a productive session of studying
'Rabbiy anniy maghloobun fantasir' that dua has helped me on a number of occasions and it mens 'Oh my Lord ,I am overwhelmed so assist me'.And don't lose sight of the fact that these tests of the world are not what will matter at the end,try yourbestbut don't be too hard on yourself.
Until you read again
All the best inshaAllah
1.body basics
Yes a healthy body = a healthy mind
Eat well,sleep well ,exercise.it is that simple.go for power foods at breakfast time,oats ,eggs ,bananas,smoothies etc.think high energy but slow releasing energy foods
Keep your Meals light,snack regularly on brain food(almonds) and keep hydrated.
2.strategise
He who fails to plan plans to fail
Draw up a timetable ,set realistic daily goals and stick to them.there is a sort of comfort in discipline and structure.
3.environment
Make your study environment conducive to your study needs.choose a room that is free from distractions.a peaceful environment with all your resources at your disposal (sometimes hunting for stationery sets you back a good few minutes)
4.rewards
When you set a study goal accompany it with a reward for your efforts.give yourself a break every forty minutes or so,your mind wont switch off and will be rejuvenated with the treat you have chosen for yourself .also remind yourself of what you are studying towards,eg,your degree
5.pray
Make dua often .it eliminates anxiety,grants you release when you are under pressure and promotes a healthy frame of mind.exactly what you need for a productive session of studying
'Rabbiy anniy maghloobun fantasir' that dua has helped me on a number of occasions and it mens 'Oh my Lord ,I am overwhelmed so assist me'.And don't lose sight of the fact that these tests of the world are not what will matter at the end,try yourbestbut don't be too hard on yourself.
Until you read again
All the best inshaAllah
Sunday 15 April 2012
A blind eye
We experienced a robbery about 8 months ago and i still have nightmares about that night.but how much worse must it be,when robbers invade your home and take up residence there? We would have to ask our Palestinian brothers and sisters that,who suffer daily
at the hands of the delusional state of Israel.
There's a brilliant Facebook page called 'awaaz' that highlights the plight of oppressed nations worldwide.last week I had viewed horrific images on the page ,of Palestinian babies and kids murdered by Israeli troops.i was reminded That the world often chooses to ignore injustice or aids the perpetrators.Here I must make mention of it's biggest ally,the USA who spent $698 BILLION invading other countries last year!their so called wars on terror should be renamed wars of terror,seeing as how they have butchered the very people they claim to protect. I will not be so bold as to say these two entire nations are corrupt,but those governing them certainly are.
We had learned the truth a long time ago ,this is just a reminder.so how long will we wait to assist those terrorized and brutalized in their own homes?or will we simply look the other way?
Until you read again
May Allah assist the victims and grant us all peace eternally.
Ma'assalam
at the hands of the delusional state of Israel.
There's a brilliant Facebook page called 'awaaz' that highlights the plight of oppressed nations worldwide.last week I had viewed horrific images on the page ,of Palestinian babies and kids murdered by Israeli troops.i was reminded That the world often chooses to ignore injustice or aids the perpetrators.Here I must make mention of it's biggest ally,the USA who spent $698 BILLION invading other countries last year!their so called wars on terror should be renamed wars of terror,seeing as how they have butchered the very people they claim to protect. I will not be so bold as to say these two entire nations are corrupt,but those governing them certainly are.
We had learned the truth a long time ago ,this is just a reminder.so how long will we wait to assist those terrorized and brutalized in their own homes?or will we simply look the other way?
Until you read again
May Allah assist the victims and grant us all peace eternally.
Ma'assalam
Wednesday 11 April 2012
Baking blog addiction
The title is what it is and honestly I can't get enough of them.for the past few days I've been 'stalking' a few baking blogs .today I'm getting my fix on the 'my baking addiction' blog and boy oh boy is it delicious!
Theres Red velvet cuppies in a jar ,snickers galore,peanut butter cupcakes,Fudgy brownies ,toffee bars,and tons more of the sweet life to feast your eyes on.her blog has an accessible and attractive layout,She provides simple to follow instructions,helpful hints and the most stunning photographs to accompany each recipe.
Another blog that I Drool over is 'dessert first'.tho her blog Inludes other topics it is full of creative dessert and baking ideas.Pastrygirl lives up to her name showcasing her gorgeous experiments most of which are successful.
If you have time on your hands or you would like to tickle your sweet tooth check them out,its the stuff sweet dreams are made of.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam .
Theres Red velvet cuppies in a jar ,snickers galore,peanut butter cupcakes,Fudgy brownies ,toffee bars,and tons more of the sweet life to feast your eyes on.her blog has an accessible and attractive layout,She provides simple to follow instructions,helpful hints and the most stunning photographs to accompany each recipe.
Another blog that I Drool over is 'dessert first'.tho her blog Inludes other topics it is full of creative dessert and baking ideas.Pastrygirl lives up to her name showcasing her gorgeous experiments most of which are successful.
If you have time on your hands or you would like to tickle your sweet tooth check them out,its the stuff sweet dreams are made of.
Until you read again
Ma'assalam .
Sunday 8 April 2012
Two and counting...
"Of His signs is this: that He created for you spouses that you might find rest in them, and He ordained between you love and mercy." (Quran, 30:21)
There are no words that sum up my two years with my best half more perfectly,and yes you read right ,TWO!! Okay you might be thinking Yeah sure,big deal,some couples last for far more but it is significant for me.it means I'm fortunate enough to have found someone so amazing who has stuck with this Pain in the foot for over 730 days.
When I think back it has been an amazing journey,and I'm hopeful it's the first leg of a long and Fruitful one.with all the challenges we face,I would not trade My marriage for anything in this world. "No relationship is perfect, ever. There are always some ways you have to bend, to compromise, to give something up in order to gain something greater...The love we have for each other is bigger than these small differences. And that's the key. It's like a big pie chart, and the love in a relationship has to be the biggest piece. Love can make up for a lot.”
― Sarah Dessen-
I've laughed and cried with the mister and that's proof enough that he is a blessing.supportive and generous and loving,a man who is fair with his time and most importantly a firm believer in Allah.Masha-Allah!
All this girl can do is pray he forever remains a good Muslim and that our union lasts even in Jannah(paradise).Aameen!
Until you read gain
Love for the pleasure of Allah
Ma'assalam
There are no words that sum up my two years with my best half more perfectly,and yes you read right ,TWO!! Okay you might be thinking Yeah sure,big deal,some couples last for far more but it is significant for me.it means I'm fortunate enough to have found someone so amazing who has stuck with this Pain in the foot for over 730 days.
When I think back it has been an amazing journey,and I'm hopeful it's the first leg of a long and Fruitful one.with all the challenges we face,I would not trade My marriage for anything in this world. "No relationship is perfect, ever. There are always some ways you have to bend, to compromise, to give something up in order to gain something greater...The love we have for each other is bigger than these small differences. And that's the key. It's like a big pie chart, and the love in a relationship has to be the biggest piece. Love can make up for a lot.”
― Sarah Dessen-
I've laughed and cried with the mister and that's proof enough that he is a blessing.supportive and generous and loving,a man who is fair with his time and most importantly a firm believer in Allah.Masha-Allah!
All this girl can do is pray he forever remains a good Muslim and that our union lasts even in Jannah(paradise).Aameen!
Until you read gain
Love for the pleasure of Allah
Ma'assalam
Tuesday 3 April 2012
I have a lot to be grateful for
Its true.in fact I cant remember nor can I count it all and I was reminded of that fact yet again.
A colleague of my mum in law got married on friday,a happy occasion no doubt ,but she had neither mother nor father to share her special day with.i thought back to my wedding day when my mum gathered all her resources to make it perfect for me and when my father asked for my permission so he could be witness at the nikaah.so often we forget all that we have been blessed with,while obsessing about our materialistic goals.
"A person however learned and qualified in his life's work in whom gratitude is absent, is devoid of that beauty of character which makes personality Fragrant"
I tell myself to read the news often,in all the corruption,disaster and drama you will acknowledge all you have been favored with.
Also when you are Grateful be sure to express it,coz
"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
A colleague of my mum in law got married on friday,a happy occasion no doubt ,but she had neither mother nor father to share her special day with.i thought back to my wedding day when my mum gathered all her resources to make it perfect for me and when my father asked for my permission so he could be witness at the nikaah.so often we forget all that we have been blessed with,while obsessing about our materialistic goals.
"A person however learned and qualified in his life's work in whom gratitude is absent, is devoid of that beauty of character which makes personality Fragrant"
I tell myself to read the news often,in all the corruption,disaster and drama you will acknowledge all you have been favored with.
Also when you are Grateful be sure to express it,coz
"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Sunday 25 March 2012
my sugar sister
my eldest sister is a crafty genius.from flower arranging,interior decor,painting,sewing to icing decor shes tried it all and succeeded. im going to share the last of her talents mentioned above with you.
and my absolute favourite....
have a sugary sunday and remember to share the good things you love...i just did.
until you read again
ma'assalaam
and my absolute favourite....
have a sugary sunday and remember to share the good things you love...i just did.
until you read again
ma'assalaam
Wednesday 15 February 2012
Self induced nostalgia
Have you ever felt nostalgia for who you once were? it seems a strange thing to ask but answer it anyway .like me,you might just find yourself missing your former self ..
Erratic ,that sums up human behaviour perfectly.today you're high tomorrow down on your knees,and more often than not its our spirituality on the rise or decline.i constantly recall times when my head and heart seemed to be more grounded.i remember when some aspects of myself were way better than they are presently.i guess each period of our lives comes with its own challenges ,making it easier or more difficult to uphold a desired standard of behaviour.each new environment presents a unique test of character making life a constant struggle with ones self.and so it is that sometimes when I'm particularly moody or petty I miss the old me,tho imperfect, that girl knew contentment.
So think back to where you've come from.it could be a time when you did more for your loved ones,had more respect,dressesd better,believed more firmly..whatever the case may be let your old self inspire you..
"If you wish to achieve worthwhile things in your personal and career life, you must become a worthwhile person in your own self improvement."-Brian Tracy
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Erratic ,that sums up human behaviour perfectly.today you're high tomorrow down on your knees,and more often than not its our spirituality on the rise or decline.i constantly recall times when my head and heart seemed to be more grounded.i remember when some aspects of myself were way better than they are presently.i guess each period of our lives comes with its own challenges ,making it easier or more difficult to uphold a desired standard of behaviour.each new environment presents a unique test of character making life a constant struggle with ones self.and so it is that sometimes when I'm particularly moody or petty I miss the old me,tho imperfect, that girl knew contentment.
So think back to where you've come from.it could be a time when you did more for your loved ones,had more respect,dressesd better,believed more firmly..whatever the case may be let your old self inspire you..
"If you wish to achieve worthwhile things in your personal and career life, you must become a worthwhile person in your own self improvement."-Brian Tracy
Until you read again
Ma'assalam
Thursday 9 February 2012
The Day of Reckoning
I awoke to a terrifying storm this morning.the sky was alive with violent flashes of light and cracks of thunder that had my heart beating at record pace.ive always carried a fear of the elements but this was the first time it affected me so deeply .the thought struck me that I am way underprepared for the day that is to be like no other in its ferocity ,that is The Day of Judgement.
Al imraan 3:30] "On the Day when every soul will find itself confronted with all that it hath done of good and all that it hath done of evil (every soul) will long that there might be a mighty space of distance between it and that (evil)."
Ibrahim 14:44]" And warn mankind of a day when the doom will come upon them, and those who did wrong will say: Our Lord! Reprieve us for a little while. "
It terrifies me yet my actions contradict my fear.you see Our lives have become so commercial we've lost sight of what's our real objective.our eating,dressing,our lifestyle in general screams show and money but that's not why we are here.we seem to be involved in a dismal transaction where we trade the eternal bliss of the hereafter for the temporary pleasures of this world . Be bold ,be brave, be tireless in your pursuit for ultimate success.its time to set right what we've been doing wrong for so long!
Umar R.A used to say: "Judge yourself before you are judged and weigh your deeds before it is weighed for you."
Until you read again
Ma'assalaam
Al imraan 3:30] "On the Day when every soul will find itself confronted with all that it hath done of good and all that it hath done of evil (every soul) will long that there might be a mighty space of distance between it and that (evil)."
Ibrahim 14:44]" And warn mankind of a day when the doom will come upon them, and those who did wrong will say: Our Lord! Reprieve us for a little while. "
It terrifies me yet my actions contradict my fear.you see Our lives have become so commercial we've lost sight of what's our real objective.our eating,dressing,our lifestyle in general screams show and money but that's not why we are here.we seem to be involved in a dismal transaction where we trade the eternal bliss of the hereafter for the temporary pleasures of this world . Be bold ,be brave, be tireless in your pursuit for ultimate success.its time to set right what we've been doing wrong for so long!
Umar R.A used to say: "Judge yourself before you are judged and weigh your deeds before it is weighed for you."
Until you read again
Ma'assalaam
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