Monkeying Around
Monday, July 14, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

As some of you know I homeschool my nephew Abdullah who is 4 years old. AlhumduliLlah, so far everything is going well, and it's amazing to see his progress, tabarak'Allah. It is unbelievable how much time and dedication it takes.. even if it's just teaching a 4 year old! I truly admire those sisters (and brothers) who homeschool their children and pray Allah makes it easy for them, rewards them for their effort, and makes their offspring of the righteous. Ameen.

... I can't begin to imagine how much it takes to teach more than one child, at different levels!

Recently I did a unit on monkeys, what fun! I've added some baking time in our week, because he really enjoys it and it's a great way to get some math in, so I'd like to share an awesome Monkey Bread recipe we made. It really is great.. even the adults enjoyed it.

Serves: 8 -10 Monkeys

2 1/4 cup (18 oz)
1 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
1 tblsp instant yeast
:: Place above in a bowl, mix together.

300 ml (10 fl oz) buttermilk
2 tblsp butter - melted
1 egg - beaten
:: Mix together, add to dry mix.

:: Knead dough.
:: Place in lightly oiled bowl, cover, allow to rise.
:: Cut dough into 1" pieces.

1/2 cup pecans
1/2 cup sugar
1 tblsp cinnamon
:: Place pecans onto bottom of greased bundt pan.
:: Mix sugar and cinnamon together.
:: Roll dough pieces in sugar-mix, and place in pan.

1/2 cup butter - melted
2 tsp water
1 cup brown sugar
optional: 1 packet pudding mix - any flavour
:: Mix above together, pour over dough.

:: Bake at 350 F until golden brown.
:: Cool slightly before removing.
:: Enjoy!

Note: I made the dough ahead of time, Abdullah did the rest. Older children can make the dough themselves. I know some people just buy refrigerated biscuits (you'll need 30 ounces), I'm a 'from scratch' kind of person.. so it's up to you. As well, the dough itself makes lovely dinner rolls! (It makes approximately 25 rolls).



Additional Monkey Fun:

:: Sang to "Itsy Bitsy Spider tune" - Abdullah thinks the monkey version is great, and only sings this one now.

"The itsy bitsy monkey climbed up the coconut tree,
Down came a coconut and hit him on his knee - Oww!
Out came a lion a with his mighty mane - Annnnndddd
The itsy bitsy monkey climbed up the tree again."

:: Math: Connect The Dots (for older children: 1-60)
:: Craft: Monkey Puppet - print it out on card stock, have them paint/colour the images, and let them cut it out. When I taught kindergarten, I was surprised at how many children don't even know how to hold a scissors, let alone be able to cut something.. so provide them with the opportunity to learn, and explore. Children at age 3 can handle it, but make sure to never leave them alone with scissors.
:: Physical Activity: Monkey See Monkey Do (like Simon Says) - this is great outdoors, where you copy what the leader does.
:: Reading: Fortunately there are a lot of stories about monkeys!, like the famous Curious George, check out your local library.
:: Science: Curious George Clips - this is an excellent site!

That's a little of what we covered, use your imagination in making up other activities and have fun with it!

If you try out the recipe please let me know what you think, or your version of it.. I know there are many out there.

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posted by Sketched Soul at 11:16 AM | Permalink 4 comments
Got My Goat
Monday, July 07, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I truly love animals.. I do, and the more I learn about them the more fascinated I am at how Allah has created such astounding creatures, subhan'Allah.

With all the incredible creatures out there, I have a great fondness for goats! Yes.. goats.. you read right. (Stop laughing.. I never ever claimed to be 'normal'). Which is why out of the many petitions I would have liked to share with you, I've chosen this one.

Please, please sign it. (yes.. this is me begging)

Got My Goat

It's about a new drug (called ATryn) that comes from the milk of genetically modified goats.

Scientists in New England have developed transgenic goats that posses a human gene. This gene makes the goats produce human proteins in their milk, and this protein forms the basis of the ATryn drug.

By putting human genes into goats, bio-engineers are turning helpless animals into mere drug factories. Fewer than 10 out of every 100 animals injected with the human gene while still in their mother's womb will be able to produce the altered milk. The other baby goats bred for drug production are killed immediately. What's more, some "successful" transgenic baby goats develop severe birth defects that scientists don't understand.

.. things like this make me sick! The whole process is cruel (which makes it unIslamic in my view) and they don't even know how safe it is for humans! Yaaay..

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posted by Sketched Soul at 7:32 PM | Permalink 8 comments
My Fair Adventure
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Jazaki'Allahu khair Nadia for motivating me to get this blog going again. Sorry everyone for my absence.. I had been busy planning the Fair, as most of you know.

Ahh the Fair, to sum up it up... it was definitely a roller coaster ride! With every idea/plan an obstacle or two followed, but with a little patience and determination Allah opened up ways that are just unbelievable, subhan'Allah.


Right from the beginning we ran into problems finding a venue. I'm still in shock at how little help we received from almost all Islamic Institutes we approached, which says a lot about the ummah. There was a time when the Masjid was used for everything, and to help everyone. AlhumduliLlah, Allah sent us better. An organization P4E, who help new Muslims among other things, permitted us to use their premises, and helped us throughout the event. Please support them in any way you can.

Our adventure carried on right until the day of the event, where the whole morning it rained its heart out, and plans had to change.. set-up had to change! I had to fit exhibitors, a whole jumble sale, bake sale, pool table, air hockey table, a few other things and a 17 foot jumpy castle under one roof!.. let us not forget where that leaves the bbq! But Allah is the best of planners.

AlhumduliLlah, everything went great. Not as I planned it, but as He planned it. In all, we managed to make enough to purchase every Spanish Islamic book available, and extra for dawaah material, to go towards the Islam In Colombia project.

Thank you so very much to everyone who kept us in their prayers, for those that helped with the planning, to P4E, to all the wonderful volunteers (tabarak'Allah), to my dear sisters who sent in bookmarks, to those that took the time to bake some yummy goodies for our bake sale, to the great vendors, to those that came out to support us, to those that let others know about this event and project, and to my family who helped with so much.

May Allah Most High shower His blessings upon you all, reward you for your good intentions and deeds, and grant you success in this world and in the next. Ameen.
With so much to keep me on my toes, I'm very thankful for the time I had to meet so many wonderful sisters,... a fellow blogger, Maryam and one of the sisters from the OSP blog. Tabarak'Allah! Maryam.. thank you soooooo much for all your help, and being with us throughout the day (right until clean up). I also met a sweet sister from Colombia! AlhumduliLlah.



AlhumduliLlah, the rain paid us a visit only in the morning, and the rest of the day the bbq table was the place to be! Jazak'Allahu khair to the brothers that helped with that.


This is a display of the Islamic Spanish books we are to purchase, for the Muslims in Colombia. It was displayed in a way that people can actually choose the book they would like to send. It also has a little about Colombia and what brother Dawood has accomplished thus far.


The bake sale! AlhumduliLlah, we actually had a sister come back to the event just to pick up more baked goods. Thank you to all those that donated such wonderful goodies.


One of the many games we had. You get three attempts to get 'food' into the monkeys mouth, kind of like Bean Bag Toss, and of course win a prize. I'm sorry Adikbongsu, I couldn't get a picture of the golf game for you.


Sassy Apple cotton candy! (Need I say more?) Absolutely delicious! I'm a huge cotton candy fan, so this was a must-have. Insha'Allah my Eid will be like this..hehe


One of our exhibitors table, Muslim Child. Some of the others include, Salsabil Boutique, Thinkers Recourse, Pepperberry Jewelry. (These are the only ones I know who also have an online store - check them out!)


AlhumduliLlah, I ran the face painting table. It's my latest 'art fascination'..and I am just lovin' it! Here is a picture of a little dalmatian (tabarak'Allah) willing to pose for the camera.


Ah yes.. that is a 17 foot plus giraffe in the building! Subhan'Allah I was so happy when it fit! The children were thrilled, it kept them busy for hours.

That's it..
A lovely day.. with all its ups and downs. I pray we are able to continue to help the Muslims in Colombia and others, and that Allah purifies and accepts our intentions. Ameen.

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posted by Sketched Soul at 6:40 PM | Permalink 16 comments
Book, Bake & Bbq Fair
Saturday, May 10, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It's happening!.. alhumduliLlah. Keep your calendar free on June 28th!

If anyone would like to donate baked goods, and/or volunteer their time, please contact me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca). Jazak'Allahu khair.

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posted by Sketched Soul at 2:34 PM | Permalink 18 comments
Happy Pencil Crayons
Friday, April 25, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

AlhumduliLlah, I actually had some time to sew this week! Here is a very simple pattern, for a pencil case. It is not my pattern, but my tutorial.. because I may need it for a future project, insha'Allah, so I made my own tutorial.


This pencil case is made with a suede fabric which goes with a messenger bag I made a while back, but I think it works much better with thicker (stiffer) fabric.




Cut a 8.5" x 11" piece of fabric. Use a regular 8.5" x 11" sheet of printing paper as your pattern. (If you decide to make a bigger pencil case, as this one isn't that big.. make the 8.5" larger).

Fold the fabric in half (8.5" to 8.5"), and cut a 1.25" x 1.25" square at the bottom of each end (the folded end).

Mark 1" at the top of each side, and cut diagonally.



Decorate as desired. I used beads. You can also stencil something on. C'mon, be creative.



Open the zipper completely (so it is easier to sew.. without it in the way)
Press (or fold) a 1/4" in place on each top.
Sew first side down.

Mark where the fabric lines up.
Pin second side down (if you need to)
Sew second side down.



Close your zipper half way (so you'll be able to turn it inside out.)
Make sure right-sides are facing each other.
Sew sides down.
Cut extra zipper sticking out and serge (or zigzag) edges.



Flatten bottom opening and sew down.
Serge (or zigzag) edges.



Turn right way out, and fill with your favourite pencil crayons.

Voila!

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posted by Sketched Soul at 12:43 PM | Permalink 13 comments
Islam in South America
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu


Very few of us will surprised to learn that as Muslims we have a responsibility to convey the message of Islam to non-Muslims and invite them to Allah. Are we really fulfilling that duty?

With this great responsibility comes a great reward, insha'Allah.

"Whoever guides someone towards good, will receive the reward of the one who acts upon it." [Muslim]

This means, if a person is converted through the dawah you give him/her, you get rewards for all the prayers he/she does or all the fasts that he/she does, etc.



Details of project: Send Islamic literature to South America - in English or Spanish.
  • Preferably ANY books in Spanish
  • Spanish Qur'ans (with and without Arabic)*
  • Pocket size Qur'ans (without Arabic text)*
  • Jesus - Un Profeta Del Islam by Muhammad Ataur Rahim*
  • Guide to Islam in Spanish - Una Breve Guia? Ilustrada Para Entender el Islam by I.A. Ibrahim *
  • Islamic audio and video

    • (* they could do with more copies for handing out)

    Online Stores: If you know any other sites that sell Islamic Spanish material please let us know
  • Dar-us-Salaam Publications
  • IIPH Publications
  • Sound Vision
  • Online Islamic Store
  • Al Kitab
  • Al Halalco Books
  • Al Madania
  • Islamic Bookstore


    • Participants allowed: Open to anyone who can help. US residents have better access to Spanish material, so please, please join us.

    Ages allowed: All ages.

    Cost Limit: Non.

    Rules: Please ensure that brother Dawd will not have to pay any duty/taxes on receiving the books.

    Email me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) what books you have sent, so we don't send doubles. (Qur'ans and material to handout can be in large quantity) - I will compose a list below of books sent and received, insha'Allah.

    Mailing Address:
    Gabriel David Herrera Escobar
    Calle 21# 21-96 Barrio La Pradera
    Dosquebradas, Pereira Risaralda
    COLOMBIA
    South America

    Others Sources:

  • Islam una forma de vida
  • Islam en Colombia

    • May Allah Most Merciful grant us the means and ability to invite others to Islam, may He reward us for our good intentions, and continue to bless us with Islam. Ameen.

    Books Sent Todate:
  • Los Pilares del Islam y el Imân (The Pillars of Islam and Iman) / Sent 1 copy
  • Bulug Al-Marâm (Attainment of the Objective) / Sent 1 copy
  • Fallos Islamicos Sobre El Adivino Y Hechicero (Dealing with Witchcraft and those who do magic, etc) / Sent 2 copies
  • Durusul Islam (Vol 1 of a series of volumes dealing with very basic, basic topics) / Sent 5 copies
  • El Islam - Part 1 & 2 (Also, very basic introductory topics of Al Islam) / Sent 5 copies of each part
  • Los Funerales En El Islam (Dealing with Funerals in Islam) / Sent 3 copies
  • Nociones De Fiqh Para Principiantes (Basic Fiqh info for those who are new in the Deen) / Sent 4 copies
  • Salaah, La Oracion Del Musulman (Dealing with Salaah) / Sent 5 copies
  • El hombre que el Islam construye (The Man Islam builds) / Sent 50 copies
  • La forma de encontrar a Dios (The Way To Find God) / Sent 50 copies
  • Los Frutos de Taqwaa (The Fruits of Taqwaa) / Sent 3 copies
  • Credo Islamico (Islamic Creed) / Sent 3 copies
  • El Cor'an (Qur'an - in Spanish) / Sent 100 copies

    • Labels:

     
    posted by Sketched Soul at 1:51 PM | Permalink 13 comments
    Maple Spice Cake
    Wednesday, March 26, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    It's definitely time for a recipe.. don't you think! Nothing like some wonderful Maple Spice Cake on a cold, gloomy day.. that was yesterday. And today it's nice and sunny (gotta love Canadian weather, alhumduliLlah).. so I enjoyed it with some Chocolate Cookie Dough ice-cream. Oh it's soooo yummy!.. and who can resist anything with maple syrup in!!

    And you don't need a mixer to make it.. how nice is that.


    Serves: Me alone.. or 10 people (I suppose)

    1 1/2 cup flour
    1 tsp baking powder
    1 tsp baking soda
    1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
    1/2 tsp ground ginger
    1/2 tsp salt
    1/4 tsp ground cloves
    1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
    1 pinch cayenne (yes.. you read right)
    2 eggs - lightly beaten
    2/3 cup buttermilk
    1/2 cup pure maple syrup
    1/3 cup vegetable oil
    1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses

    Glaze:
    1/2 cup icing sugar - sifted
    1 tblsp maple syrup
    water

    :: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
    :: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
    :: Sift dry ingredients. Set aside.
    :: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, maple syrup, oil, and molasses until well blended... because of the molasses, this may take a little longer.
    :: Add egg-mixture to dry ingredients.. I used a whisk to get it all mixed in and smooth.
    :: Pour batter into the prepared pan.
    :: Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (approximately 30 minutes)
    :: Cool in pan, remove and glaze.

    :: For Glaze: Add maple syrup to icing sugar, and enough water to make a glaze.

    Serve alone, with whipped cream, or with ice-cream.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 11:33 AM | Permalink 10 comments
    The Book of Assistance
    Wednesday, March 19, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Forgive me for the very delayed post on such an excellent book, tabarak'Allah. I actually read it twice.. and I'm sure if I read it again I'll discover new information that I some how missed. AlhumduliLlah, every single sentence has something we can think about, learn and benefit from. I'll give you some examples below.



    Title: The Book of Assistance
    Author: Imam 'Abdullah Ibn 'Alawi Al-Haddad
    Translated by: Dr. Mostafa Badawi
    Available: Fons Vitae

    Have I learned anything from it, or was it all review? I learned a lot from it, alhumduliLlah. Although the topics seem basic, there is a lot we can reflect on.. and in doing so you come to realize so much more.

    Does the author use Qur'anic and authentic hadith texts? Both are used, as well as quotes from different scholars. Unfortunately the hadith are not sourced.

    Is the book easy to understand? AlhumduliLlah easy to read. Chapters (topics) are very short.. like a page or two long, but very, very concise, so you can read a topic and either get a lot out of it, or a little.. it all depends on how much you ponder over what you have read.

    Notable pages? I think each topic has something valuable in it, so the whole book. Again, this is one of those books you need to own.. so you can constantly refer to it. Below are sentences just randomly taken out of the book, so it gives you an idea of how concise it is, insha'Allah.
    Know that repentance cannot be sound unless the sin itself is renounced, remorse is felt, and there is present a determination never to repeat it for the rest of one's life.
    Everything that is forbidden to say is forbidden to listen to.
    For everything depends on food which, when licit, had a great illuminating influence on the heart and gives the body energy for worship.
    Disloyalty includes withholding from them any good that you are able to bring them, as well as frowning and chiding. (This is in regards to being loyal to your parents.)
    Never frighten or alarm a Muslim; never mock, ridicule, or despise him, for these are part of ominous and blameworthy behaviour.
    Out of 5: I rate this book 5.

    It would be nice to hear from others who have read it, what you thought of it.. or at least what you would rate it.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 11:09 AM | Permalink 10 comments
    Dear owner of this scarf,
    Monday, March 10, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    It all started November 30th, our launch of Warm The Streets! In a matter of days I already had scarves flowing in... right until the very last day, alhumduliLlah. Subhan'Allah, it never ceases to amaze me how giving some people are. May The Most Merciful reward them all tremendously, and may He continue to bless them with a healthy heart. Ameen.

    Ah yes.. the scarves, all the way from Texas, Toronto, Saudi Arabia, Oklahoma, and the list goes on... We had a total of 74 scarves!



    Here is a beautiful account of how much love went into just one of the scarves, The Rainbow Scarf, tabarak'Allah. I tried my best to appreciate that love and care, and made sure each scarf was individually wrapped, with a poem/letter added in (if there was no letter provided from the sender to accompany it).


    Jazaki'Allahu khair The Stolen Light for composing the lovely poem.

    Dearest owner of this scarf,
    As you take this scarf and wrap it around your neck,
    Know it was given with peace and love, to protect,
    Through this small token we hope to touch your heart,
    And know as one in humanity we stand together and not apart,
    Accept our gift given with sincerity,
    From your (Muslim) friends striving to live in harmony.

    AlhumduliLlah, the scarves were delivered in February. May thanks to the Meals 4 You group. May Allah reward you for your phenomenal work. Ameen. The scarves were very well received! AlhumduliLlah. Additional feedback received was a request for socks.

    Which brings us to next year.. yes.. next year, insha'Allah I pray we are able to run a Warm The Streets 2 - by providing them with socks for this one (in neutral colours). I look forward to having you join us.



    May The Majestic keep our intentions pure and guide us to use the infinite blessings He has bestowed upon us in a way that pleases Him. Ameen.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 1:49 PM | Permalink 15 comments
    Save The Masjid
    Friday, February 22, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Do we really need a motivational post to give ten dollars? Is that sad if we do? A whole ten dollars (that's $10.00).. surely we can bring ourselves to part with that much.

    Anyway..
    The building where the downtown mosque, Masjid Manhattan, is located has been sold. The new owner wants the place vacated by March 31, 2008. Our brothers and sisters need our support to buy a new building.


    Established more than 25 years ago, the Masjid serves approximately fifteen hundred Muslims who work in near City Hall, Wall Street and the World Trade Center.

    There is no place available for lease that would accommodate the large number of worshippers in the area; therefore, buying a building is the only option. The community has raised half the necessary money for the down payment but needs help with the rest.

    Time is running out for March 31st deadline.

    The goal is to reach 500 thousand people in the US and Canada who can pay 10 dollars each.

    1. Make a cheque or money order payable to: Masjid Manhattan
    (indicate the project you are donating to in the memo of your cheque)

    Masjid Manhattan
    P.O. Box 3432
    Church Street Station,
    New York, NY 10008

    2. Online Donation: http://www.masjidmanhattan.com/Donations.aspx

    3. Let others know about this.

    4. Make Dua' to Allah that He saves this masjid.


    May Allah Most High grant us with the means and ability to save this Masjid, and may He Most Merciful continue to bless this Ummah. Ameen.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 4:54 PM | Permalink 8 comments
    Tagged And Tagged Again
    Thursday, February 21, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Please forgive me my dear readers for taking so long to post something (insha'Allah it's not just anything).. and my apologies to all those who have tagged me, and are waiting for some kind of response on my end. Jazak'Allahu khair for thinking of me and for your patience.


    Note: I am not tagging anyone for these (and I have my reasons), but you are more than welcome to do any and don't forget to let me know, so I can visit your page, insha'Allah.

    Well here it is:
    I have been tagged by Al-Miskeenah, Don't Be Sad, A Wayfarer's Journey, The Imam's Daughter, Prism of thoughts...
    Rules:
    1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages)
    2. Open the book to page 123
    3. Find the 5th sentence
    4. Post the next 3 sentences
    5. Tag 5 people

    Taken from The Book Of Assistance by Imam 'Abdullah Ibn 'Alawi Al-Haddad
    "How many good things has He given you! How many a favour has He granted you! He is your Lord and Guardian, Who created and guided you, to whom your life and your death belong, Who gives you to eat and drink, Who provides and looks after you, Who shelters you and gives you refuge."
    AlhumduliLlah.



    Next up:
    1. Link to the person that tagged you, in my case, Hijabi Apprentice
    2. Post the rules on your blog
    3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
    4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
    5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog

    1. I have to eat (dinner) after Maghrib salaat - whether it is at 4pm or 9pm..that's just the way it goes.
    2. I absolutely love driving, however, never, never ask me directions if you want to reach the right destination.
    3. I think pop/soda has absolutely NO benefit, I don't drink it, refuse to buy it (even if it's on the grocery list - someone in the house has to make a special trip for that), and won't even pass it to you!
    4. I can't stand inconsiderate behaviour, and totally love those who are considerate.
    5. I love mint and maple flavouring - be it in chocolate, ice-cream, cake, toothpaste..hehe
    6. When I'm mad, upset, annoyed, confused (and I'm sure there is more to that list), I go quiet..very quiet.



    And:
    I was tagged for this excellent meme, by The Muslimah, and Gulnarita
    Rules
    1. List 6 actions or achievements you think every person should accomplish before turning 18. There are no conditions on what can be included on the list.
    2. Tag 6 more people and leave them a comment telling them they’ve been tagged.

    1. Establish all your salaat, on time, and with full concentration.
    2. Memorize the Qur'an, and constantly reflect on its meaning.
    3. Don't talk a lot. Learn to say only what is best - this includes what you type.
    4. Pray for the deceased, so that when you die someone will pray for you, insha'Allah.
    5. Make it a habit to pray Surah al-Mulk every night.
    6. Help others, as much as you possibly can.. either physically, through your prayers, by donating money (even if it is only one dollar), donating items, your time, etc. - Help others and Allah will help you, insha'Allah.

    There we have it people. I hope I didn't miss any tags, or names of people who took the time to tag me. Sorry if I did.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 10:46 AM | Permalink 14 comments
    Bookmark Help Needed
    Thursday, February 07, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Insha'Allah in June I would love to hold a Book & Bake sale, with all the proceeds going to the Orphanage in Africa.



    I'd also like to sell bookmarks! If anyone is willing to help out, by making bookmarks please contact me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) for a mailing address. There is no specifications, so design your heart out! (ie: it could be made out of paper, knitted, crocheted, out of metal, plastic, fabric, whatever else you like, inspirational, plain, funny, sad, written, typed, colourful, black and white, small, big, for the corner, etc. etc. - just think, would you use it?)

    Last date to get them in: June 1st, 2008.

    And for anyone living in and around Toronto (Canada) who can help with baked goods, please email me. I'd really appreciate all the help I can get.

    Jazak'Allah for your time and effort.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 1:16 PM | Permalink 17 comments
    The Never Ending Swap
    Saturday, January 19, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu


    In Islam, a gift is of extraordinary value.. not because of the cost, or the item, or the size.. but because it was given with good intentions.. be it just a smile, or kind word. Here is another chance to purify our intentions, by giving with an open heart and receiving with open arms.

    Details of swap: List four items in the Comments section of what you are willing to send to someone (store bought or handmade), keeping the description vague (to keep it a surprise), include your email address.

    The next person will tag you for one of your items (and email you with their mailing address), they will also put up a list of 4 more items, and their email address.
    Note: You can only pick from the last person in line.

    Re-cap:

  • List 4 items (vague description).
  • Include your email address.

    • Next Person:
  • Tag you for one of your items. (email you with their address)
  • List 4 items (vague description)
  • Include email address.

    • Keep it fun!

    Participants allowed: International (open to Females only please).

    Ages allowed: All ages.

    Cost Limit: $3 maximum.

    Rules:

  • Gifts should be sent out within 2 weeks!!!
  • Email ME (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) once you receive AND send out something. I will keep record right on this post so others know what is going on. (2 weeks and no mention of shipping out, automatically puts you on the 'flakers' list).
  • You can participate more than once.

    • Note: If your post gets deleted (by me) it means you can not participate - because you haven't sent out a gift from previous swaps.


    Participants:

  • Sketched Soul - sent
  • Aishah Bey - sent (received)
  • Umm Layth - sent (received)
  • Adikbongsu - sent (received)
  • Hafsa - sent (received)
  • Al Miskeenah - sent (received)
  • Sis Zabrina
  • IslamicGems - sent
  • Umm Hibaat - sent (received)
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    posted by Sketched Soul at 11:53 AM | Permalink 18 comments
    Share A Little
    Wednesday, January 16, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    How about we do a little sharing, shall we..
    What is your favourite sandwich?? (no .. "what *this restaurant* serves" please, unless you tell us exactly what is in it.)



    I suppose this could be a little 'boring', but there is nothing like a cheese (real cheese.. non of the processed stuff) and tomato sandwich.. yummmmmmy! You must, must sprinkle salt and pepper on the tomatoes (it's not natural to eat them any other way), and if you really want to indulge.. butter is most welcome. Oh..on anything whole wheat.

    Okay my dear readers.. I look forward to your feedback.

    A pointless post? oh nooo.. I wouldn't dare!, it will actually help me with a sandwich project to help those who are not so well-to-do, insha'Allah. So share!

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 4:06 PM | Permalink 29 comments
    Baby Blankie
    Friday, January 11, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    AlhumduliLlah, I managed to finish my crocheted baby blankie in pretty good time! It's a gift for someone special..a little last minute, so I really thought I wouldn't be able to get it done.


    I couldn't find a simple yet pretty pattern in my limited time-frame.. so I made up my own. Here it is! Forgive me for the unprofessional instructions.. I can clear up any questions, if need be.

    Finished size: approximately 30" x 30" (not including ruffle border)
    Blanket: 2 skeins, sports weight, 160g (each)
    Ruffle Border: 90g, sports weight
    Crochet hook size: US 5mm - H8

    Blanket
    Chain 133
    Sc in each st across (132)

    Row 1: Dc in each st, turn.
    Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), *skip 1 st, dc in next st, dc in skipped st; (repeat from *)
    Row 3: Ch 1, sc in each st, turn.
    Repeat rows 1-3 for pattern, until desired size, or yarn is done. Please keep track of stitches every so often.

    Ruffle Border
    Put hook through one corner of blanket and pull out contrasting yarn, leave a 4" tail and sl st to secure.
    Dc 10 times in same corner st.
    Dc 5 times in next st. (repeat around blanket edges).
    note: at each corner stitch, dc 10 times.

    The Flower:
    Started of using this pattern, Lazy Shell Flower.. but then I got side tracked on row 3 and did my own thing, which I probably could never repeat and can't put in words..sorry.

    So there we have it. Enjoy.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 3:09 PM | Permalink 32 comments
    Loving Freezer Paper
    Tuesday, January 08, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    The amazing things you can do using freezer paper! You should be able to find Freezer Paper at any grocery store. It's like wax paper but one side is shiny (ie: waxy), and one side is matte (like parchment paper).

    Why use freezer paper to stencil? It adheres to the fabric, leaving your work absolutely clean, and very professional look. It's also cheap!

    Materials:
    :: fabric (ie: t-shirt, bag, etc; what ever you are stenciling on)
    :: freezer paper
    :: exacto knife
    :: the image you want to stencil (drawn or a computer print out)
    :: tape
    :: iron
    :: paints (either of the following):
    - fabric paint
    - acrylic paint (with fabric medium mixed in)
    - acrylic paint - will need to heat set after stenciling
    :: sponges


    Find the image you would like to stencil. You can either: print your image directly on to the freezer paper - on the matte side!! using your ink jet printer, or draw the image (onto the matte side), or tape a photocopied/sketched image onto the matte side of the freezer paper. (note: I first sketch my ideas out, then trace it onto the freezer paper..as shown in the image).



    Cut the image out using an exacto knife (or small scissors).. I think exacto knives are one of the greatest inventions in this world.

    Once your image is cut, place your freezer paper stencil on to your ironed (wrinkle free) fabric. So the shiny side should be down.. right? Make sure the iron is on dry set and iron the stencil on.

    Take another piece of freezer paper (the same size as the one you just ironed on), and iron it behind the fabric; the inside of the fabric (shiny side touching the fabric). This helps keep the fabric in place and stops the paint from leaking right through. (optional: you may also place a cardboard inside the shirt to prevent the paint going through to the other side)



    Using a sponge dab a thin coat of paint on. Make sure to dab, not brush. If you need another coat of paint or add another colour, let the first one dry all the way through and then dab another thin layer on, etc.



    Once you are done painting, and it is completely dry, peel the stencil off. Peel the freezer paper on the inside off. Heat set your image.

    Heat set: with your iron on medium tempreture (no steam), iron it inside-out for 30 seconds. Or you can put it in the dryer on low heat, inside-out for 15 minutes. Note: the stencil can not be used again... but stencilling is addictive!

    Have fun ..and make sure to come back and share your masterpiece!

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 12:50 PM | Permalink 15 comments
    Don't Be Sad
    Thursday, January 03, 2008
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu my dear readers..

    I know you missed me.. ha

    AlhumduliLlah the RIS Conference went excellent! I'm still recouping, bear with me.

    I'd like to share a site with you, Don't Be Sad. It is, to me, the perfect blog! My lack of grammer can't explain all the goodness about it. So please go check it out with an open heart, and don't wait for a Monday or a New Year to apply what you learn, they both may never come.



    Jazak'Allah for the pretty badge, very, very much appreciated. May Allah Most Merciful shower His blessings upon you, and reward you for your pure intentions. Ameen. (It should really be ther other way..I should be the one sending you a badge) Thank you so much for creating a useful blog, that will insha'Allah give us success in this world and in the next.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 10:02 AM | Permalink 12 comments
    Tying Up Loose Ends
    Friday, December 21, 2007
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Insha'Allah this post will kind of tie up some loose ends from previous posts, before the start of a new year, new goals, new projects, and new ideas.

    ...but first a reminder! Anyone attending the RIS conference this year? I will be collecting scarfs for the Warm The Streets drive there and donations for the orphanage.

    (I designed their logo!) are kind enough to allow me to use some of their space (jazak'Allah), so you can find me at their booth, insha'Allah. Come by and say salaam! (I look forward to meeting you *sisters*)

    On October 9, 2006 I asked how you organize your recipes, so I could do the same. I settled with writing them in separate books (ie: soups and salads in one, etc.) because I have so many recipes. Well..I have the books..and have written 5 recipes to date ... haha..(I know..that's sad)

    The Unity Mural done in December 2006, is a gem in the Welfare Centre. The founder of the Centre, Major Abbas was so touched by the work gone into it, he would like to send a personal thank you to everyone who contributed. If you were one of the contributors, I need your permission to give the Centre your mailing address. (Let me know if you read this)

    We managed to send out 27 dolls for The Muslimah Doll Project, posted in January 2007. Of which 11 of the dolls

    reached an orphanage in Ethiopia around November, 2007. The organization (Amana Kids) would like to thank you for your kindness and support. The children were very pleased with them, alhumduliLlah. Sorry I couldn't get pictures *yet*.

    The money raised (plus extra donated) from the Cupcake Bake Sale in June safely reached the school in Thailand in September 2007. The Principal, a few students and a few teachers sent letters of appreciation. They will use the money to buy books and cds for the library once it is built. You are welcome to send books as well. They are still in the process of collecting funds for the building, so if you are interested in helping out there, please let me know..I would be very happy to send you their contact information.

    In August I posted a Pay It Forward game. I had to make something for three people and in return they will make something for another three people. Well I'm done! The gift to Hafsa was a bag but not handmade.. she was fine with that. The gift to Purvis should be on its way (it's a secret..so I can't tell you what it is). The gift to Nuh, a crocheted kufi and book was received few days ago. Check out their pages if you still want to play. Purvis (is short 1 person to gift), Nuh (is short all 3 people to gift) and Hafsa (is short either 1 or 2 people to gift).

    Wayfarer won the pomegranate quiz posted in November, and received a strawberry cheesecake as her prize.

    After 100 votes monArt won the tote contest from the Green Swap. Her prize was an online shopping spree. She purchased (and has already received) 6 skeins of yarn and some pretty stitch markers.

    For those who knew I was re-doing the kitchen, and are wondering how the picture I had to paint turned out.. here it is. I wanted something simple, but which makes an impact when you enter the room. The actually painting is really huge, and all the walls are lilac, so the black canvas really works out well here, alhumduliLlah.


    Am I missing anything??

    Plans for 2008..lots! but for now, I'd like to open a new swap end of January..with an added twist, concentrate on the Orphanage in Africa project, complete the Warm the Streets project, maybe get an etsy shop started for donations, and then plan for February!

    Jazak'Allah everyone for your comments, feedback, help, participation, and dua's. Some of the swaps and projects seem like a long and slow process (okay..maybe they are).. but we've accomplised a lot, we really have. AlhumduliLlah. May Allah keep our intentions pure, and guide us to do what pleases Him the most. Ameen.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 12:03 PM | Permalink 10 comments
    Feast of Sacrifice
    Wednesday, December 19, 2007
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    Eid Mubarak my dear brothers and sisters!


    I shall insha'Allah be celebrating Eid tomorrow, December 20th. I pray you all have a wonderful Eid filled with Allah's infinite blessings. Please take a moment to reflect on the importance of this celebration, remember those who are blessed to perform their Hajj this year and ask Allah to accept it, pray for the less fortunate, enjoy family and think of those who have to spend this special day alone,... and relax!

    May Allah Most Merciful forgive our sins, guide us, and give us good in this world and the next. Ameen.


    Cake Directions:


    Pretty straight forward, you need a 12" cake, an 8" cake, and 2 cupcakes. Cut the 8" cake as shown in the picture.


    Assemble cake as shown. First frost the head, inside of ears, and bottom half of feet with chocolate frosting. (Optional: then cover those sections with chocolate chips.) Using a piping bag and star nozzle frost the rest with vanilla frosting. Add details (ears, nose, mouth).

    Voila! Halal on Eid and enjoy.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 11:55 AM | Permalink 15 comments
    Orphanage in Africa
    Friday, December 14, 2007
    As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

    I'd like to share a new blog I have up, with you.


    It's about an orphanage located in Africa. No amount of pictures and words can express how sad the situation is there.

    Insha'Allah together we can help our sisters in Islam. It is our duty, and their right.

    Our current mission is to collect enough funds to purchase a home for them, in a safer location, and a more reasonable size than the one they are currently living in.

    Please, please let others know about this orphanage. All funds are taken care of by me personally, insha'Allah.

    If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions..you can leave a comment here, or feel free to email me.

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    posted by Sketched Soul at 10:49 AM | Permalink 6 comments