Title: The Road To Mecca

Labels: review

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Well, well.. yes.. I am around. Sorry for the delayed update.

AlhumduliLlah I did receive my beautiful gift from the Ramadaan Swap Hunt. The idea was to send your swap partner ten gifts that represent items from out master list.



Thank you SO much Eva! I totally dig my gift! Now that I've finally taken a picture of it, I can eat the giant lollipop! haha
May Allah reward you for your kindness. Ameen.


Here's what I got:

Handmade: Bookmark made by a lady from Afghanistan

Pink: T-Shirt (just what I needed!)

Floral Design: Body lotion

Sunnah: Miswak

Artsy-Craftsy: Coloured wire (yaaay)

Practical: Beautiful notebook

Scented: Musk

To Wear: Chocolate Mask (how cool)

Shiny: Eye shade

To Read: Lost History book (this is my favourite - I've already started it!)

Sweet: Giant lollipop

Thank you to all those that participated. This years swap went very well.. alhumduliLlah we had a lovely group.

So far I have only two blog posts to share, but I'll update the list if others post.

Crafty Muslimah

Yaney

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

As most of my readers know, I usually share a cookie recipe a few days before Eid. And here it is!

I'm having a 'Princess Eid' this year.. and every castle needs some 'princess butterflies', I however couldn't find a cookie cutter (in my last minute baking) so I made one!




They are very easy to make (surprisingly), and sturdy enough to keep for future use (just make sure to only clean the foil part).. it's also GREAT to be able to make any shape you want.

What you'll need:
- Image/template of cookie you want to make
- Scissors
- Glue
- Sturdy cardboard
- Packaging tape (or any strong tape)
- Heavy duty Aluminum Foil (the kind for bbq's)
- A little patience



Print out the "Butterfly Template". I've put two images, one is a little simpler and is 3". This cookie is 4" - which is a pretty big cookie.

Also note: if you'd like a shape for making cookies, and can't find one online.. I'd be happy to draw it out for you - just give me a few days notice.



Stick the template on cardboard. Make sure it's thick cardboard, that wouldn't bend easily.



Cut the image out.



Cut out a 12cm piece of foil, and fold it 6 times - so you have a 2cm thick line.

Here is where a little patience is needed (depending on how complicated your cookie shape is). You need to wrap the foil around the cardboard, taping it in place as your go.



You are now ready to test out your cookie cutter.



Roll-Out Cookie Dough
This is my favourite dough for rolling-out and cutting. It's easy to make, tastes good, and soft enough to be able to use a home-made cookie cutter.

Makes 22 (4" butterfly cookies)

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 egg
2 tsp vanilla essence
2 3/4 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt (only if you used unsalted butter)

:: Cream the butter and sugar in a mixer.
:: Add the egg and vanilla - beat for another 2 mins.
:: Add the dry ingredients together - beat until dough is formed.
:: Do not refrigerate this dough!

:: Roll out to 1/8" thickness.
:: Cut out shapes, place on ungreased cookie tray.
:: Bake at 350F until edges are golden or 400F for 7 mins.
:: Once completely cool, decorate as desired. You can use a simple frosting - icing sugar and water - no butter so it dries faster, and coloured sugar.

Labels: recipes, tutorials

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

I pray your Ramadaan is going well thus far.



Not so long ago we ran a project to help the Muslims in Colombia, South America, by providing them with Islamic reading material. We've also been busy trying to establish a dawah centre there. Unfortunately brother Dawood (the brother behind the project) has been very, very ill for the last few months.

Please keep him in your prayers this Ramadaan, and let others know about the project:

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Ha.. I know, I know.. I'm way behind on posting a Ramadaan activity this year. Well... that's because I have no more nephews to teach, however a wonderful sister reminded me that they are still other children out there that would like to do something fun this Ramadaan. So here it is... my giant Ramadaan Dua' Book!


The purpose of this book:
- To teach children how to 'reflect' on the blessings Allah has bestowed upon us. It's something we (adults) should be doing - so encourage them from now to make it part of their lives.
- One of the best prayers a person can make is "AlhumduliLlah".
- Make Ramadaan fun, and give them a sense of how special it is.



Most of the instructions (on how to assemble this book) are on the pdf file.

Ramadaan Dua' Book PDF

After making the book, you'll need to print out 30 pages of the 'alhumduliLlah' page (last page on pdf) - and secure them in the book using the fastners you glued in.

Print out the "Reflective words" - place a word plus a small toy (balloon, date, candy, stickers, etc.) in each cylinder, cover with tissue paper and a rubber band, and stick a number on (provided on pdf).

Each day the child will poke a hole through the right day (example, 3rd fast - so number three), read the 'reflective word' - and think about what he/she is thankful for that relates with that word. Then write about it, and / or draw a picture of it.

Not much to it, but it'll definitely teach them to 'see' how much they have, and insha'Allah appreciate it.

Labels: crafts, paper, ramadaan

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Two years ago we ran a Warm The Streets project collecting winter scarves for the homeless of Toronto.

Our grateful recipients expressed a need for socks, and so insha'Allah this year we can fulfill their request.



Details of project: Send in as many socks as you can before November 1. They can be crocheted, knitted, bought. Please make sure they are adult size, in neutral colours and suitable for cold weather. You may also add a note saying who it is made by, etc.

Other ways to help:
:: Run a Sock Drive at your local masjid, school, MSA, etc.
:: Post the banner (on my side bar) on your site linked to this post.
:: Inform family, friends, co-workers, and classmates about this project.
:: Donate money for socks to be purchased. (email me)
:: Pray for those who are less-fortunate.

How they will be delivered: These will be wrapped and individually handed out to those on the streets of Toronto (Ontario, Canada), with a packed meal. I especially encourage those who live in Ontario to participate!

Participants allowed: International

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: None.






If you would like to help, please email (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) me for an address where you can mail or drop off the socks.

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

I've been tagged by my dearest sister Umm Hibaat! Thank you for thinking of me.


Conditions of this award are:
Tell your readers 10 things about you that they may or may not know, but are true. Tag ten people with the award, and be sure to let them know they have been tagged (a quick comment on their blog will do). Don’t forget to link back to the blogger who tagged you.

Oh my... humm... 10 huh? 3 not enough?

1) I prefer cooking withOUT exact measurements, even if I've never made the dish before.. ha!

2) I'm very punctual, alhumduliLlah - and I think it's inconsiderate to plan events assuming everyone is going to be late!

3) I'm attempting to learn Spanish - but I usually don't finish what I start *grin*

4) I don't like shopping - I know, I know..what's wrong with me?!

5) I prefer to eat with chopsticks instead of a fork.

6) I collect boxes - I don't know why.. I just LIKE them, and they like me.. and that's all that counts!

7) I like reading blogs where I can learn something - even if it's once in a while.

8) I get really happy when a Muslimah (that I don't know) answers my salaam - or even better says salaam to me first!

9) Two children have been named after me - insha'Allah that's a good thing.. lol

10) I find cook books fascinating - I can read them from cover to cover.



I tag: - Don't feel obligated to do it, I know not everyone likes tags.

Islamic Unit Studies

Yaney

Handmade Beginnings

Hijabi Apprentice

A Wayfarer's Journey

Shaalom 2 Salaam

The Muslim Homeschooler

Made By Claire

Chasing Jannah

Angeliquez

Labels: me

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

God willing Ramadaan will be here soon.. and then you'll be thinking about gifts! Here's a head start in sending something special to one of your sisters this Eid.



Details of swap: Each participant will suggest 4 items for our scavenger hunt list. Once you are assigned a partner you will receive the master list - from there, you need to send 10 gifts. EACH gift must represent a different item listed.

Here are my four you will see on the list:

1) Something local
2) Something camo/military pattern
3) Something Islamic
4) Something with your partner's first initial

Participants allowed: International (females only).

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: None.

Rules:
1) Sent out gift- email me and your swap partner.
2) Received gift - email me and your swap partner. (Send me pics, I'll put them up!)


Sign up due date: Monday August 3, 2009
Partners and list will be emailed to you on: Tuesday August 3, 2009
Gift must be mailed out by: Monday August 31, 2009


If you would like to participate, I will need to know the following information. (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) note: .ca NOT .com
Please email me the answers even if you have participated in a previous swap.


QUESTIONNAIRE TO ANSWER
Name of swap: Ramadaan Swap Hunt
Blog url:
Email address:
Four items for the list:
1)
2)
3)
4)
Your real name:
Mailing address:
Do I and your swap partner have your permission to post pics of your gift:
How did you hear about this swap:
Comments:




Participants to date:

Sketched Soul sent received

Islamic Unit Studies

Beebo sent received

Crafty Muslimah sent received

Handmade Beginnings sent received

Yaney sent received

Hijabi Apprentice

Life A Gift sent received

... With A Saudi Accent sent (received)

Shirin sent received

Final List of Items:

something local

something made from recycled things

something green

something recycled (fave book, tasbih, hijab used, etc.)

something to read

something soft

something to do with Ramadan or 'Eid

something camo/military pattern

something handmade

something feminine or that celebrates being a woman

something savoury

something with your partner's first initial

something environmentally friendly

something pink

something about Ramadaan

something cuddly

something blue

something with a floral design

something to strengthen relationships (spiritual, marital, sisterhood, etc.)

something that can fly

something with bling

something from the sunnah (henna, miswak, honey, etc.)

something artsy-craftsy

something practical

something sweet

something readable

something spicy

something scented

something hot pink

a poem you really like/favourite quote

something to wear

something Islamic

something purple

something shiny

something Islamic and scrapable (as in for a scrapbook)

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

AlhumduliLlah, last Ramadaan WE were able to help Nasrin.
Participants came from: 1 - Singapore : 5 - U.S.A. : 9 - Canada


God willing, this year we can continue working together to help another child.

Project Description: To sponsor a child for a year, as a group. It will cost a total of $360 (Canadian). The more people who join the less money you spend, and your reward stays the same, insha'Allah.. just make sure you have the correct intention.



Are you ready to make your Ramadaan different this year? If you are interested, email me at amtullah79@yahoo.ca
On August 4, I will let you know how much you will be required to pay. If you agree to this amount, you will be expected to pay it on August 17. Make sense? (ie: by you signing up it does not mean you are committed, until you know how much and agree to that amount)


Sign-up date due: Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Payment agreement: Sunday, August 9, 2009
Payment must be made: Monday, August 17, 2009

Before emailing me.. please make sure have the correct intention, (ie: to do it to please Allah).

Note: As a sponsor you will receive a profile of the child, and have permission to write/send cards, etc. to the child. The child will likely be a boy from Kenya.

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Here is a craft I first did with my past Sunday School students. A lot of parents/homeschoolers seem to be interested in it.. so I thought it would be nice to share it with my bloggers (what's left of them.. haha)


Our lesson was about Mosques - keeping them clean, how they look (use calendar pics for this), the parts (dome, minaret, etc.), their purpose (community, salaat, helping others).

The idea of the money box was for the kids to collect change and give their box to the a Mosque to go towards helping others.


I prefer the kids use water paint for this craft, because kids love paint and it also allows for the design (doors, etc.) to show through.

Mosque Money Box Template

Materials:
- Mosque template printed on card stock
- wrapping paper
- soap box
- scissor/strong tape/exacto knife
- water paints/brushes/glue/glitter - decorating items
- a few coins


:: Make sure the soap box is taped shut, and cover with wrapping paper.
:: Cut out the template, and using an exacto knife cut out the thin rectangle you see just above the door.
:: Line the bottom of the soap box with the bottom of the Mosque and trace out the rectangular hole you had just cut, onto the soap box - now cut that out as well, it can be slightly bigger.
:: Allow the children to decorate their Mosque before assembling.
:: Stick the Mosque onto the box (making sure the rectangles line up).
:: Give the child a few coins to start their collection.

Labels: crafts, paper

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Ah yes, another tag. Thank you sweet Hajar for adding me to your tagged list. - you totally spoil me with all your lovely words.

1. Do you think you are hot? - smokin'! Hajar.. how did you want me to answer this? *grin*

2. Upload your favourite picture of you. - erm.. no it's not hijabified

3. Why do you like that picture? - 'gym rat' days :D

4) When was the last time you ate pizza? - this morning, for breakfast

5) The last song you listened to? - AlBorosie - 'Gal Dem'

6) What are you doing right now besides this? - replying email

7) What name would you prefer besides yours? - humm.. haven't thought about it - I like names with a meaning that reflects the person

8) People To Tag :
i. Hijabi Apprentice
ii. Crafty Muslimah
iii. Prism of thoughts
iv. Al Miskeenah
v. DG Diary

9) Who is number one? - The first blogger I ever visited, and totally digg :D

10) Number three is having a relationship with? - Her husband (I hope.. haha) *grin*

11) Say something about number five? - Onea' the few males on my list.. and a nice one :)

12) How about number four? - Holds a special place in my heart :)

13) Who is number two? - a crafty Muslimah!! doesn't get better then that! :D

Labels: me

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Ahh... another awesome swap, they get a little addictive.. haha.

Here are the lovely participants, and their take on the swap. Check out the links - see all the fun you missed! I'll update as gifts come in.

Umm Nassim
- Gift Received

Umm Salihah
- Gift Received
- 'Persian Girls' Book Review
- 'The Saffron Kitchen' Book Review

Yaney
- Gift Received

Umm Bilal
- Gift Received

Hajar
- Gift Received

Umm Obaidah

Razzberry

Teeya

Hijabi Apprentice

Mommy2h

Sarah

And here is what I got!
Well first.. let me tell you want I sent Hajar. The BFG by Roald Dahl.. yes, it's one of my favourite books, because it's the one that made me 'love' reading. If you've never read it.. you must.

Hajar was then to send me a gift that reflects the book I sent her. And here is my 'little bag of dreams'. So many lovely things, from a gorgeous bookmark, to a mirror that will show me my future husband (apparently) (hopefully it's blank *big grin*), she couldn't fit giants in.. so she opted for their pets (the cute cats you see), a batik scarf, and a handmade box, bag and key chain!

Thank you so very, very much Hajar, everything is wonderful! Now I'm going to Malaysia.. haha especially after teasing me with the Islamic Museum Guide!

And thank you to all those that participate! Look forward to having you join us again, insha'Allah.

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

In nearly every orphanage in China, children in need of heart surgery wait to be healed.

In an effort to help as many of these orphaned children as possible, Love Without Boundaries is holding a "Born In My Heart" art auction.

Beginning Thursday April 23 to Tuesday April 28, you will have the opportunity to bid on some amazing items and forever change the lives of children with heart defects. Over 300 items will be added throughout the day.

100% of the proceeds go to fund heart surgeries.

Labels: help, sites

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

It's only Sunday.. but I've already had a wonderful weekend. I spent Friday and Saturday at a cake show.. now I want to bake something amazing! But who's going to eat a three tiered cake? It was really nice to see other cool cakes (wedding, baby shower, etc.), and even see some cakes being put together.. although it disgusts me how much they blow on the cake (to keep it clean, etc.) I'm extremely picky when it comes to food and hygiene - thank God I don't need to order cakes from others.

I also bumped into an awesome store! Which is why I'm posting today.. to share their online store with you: Lush

They sell fresh-no animal testing-protect the planet kind of products. In my books that makes them a perfect place to shop. I bought shampoo in a solid form!, and have already used it.. by far the best shampoo I've ever used. Hijabi Apprentice, you must visit this site! It reminds me of you... haha

Right now they are holding contest you can check out - win a bike! Seed The Nation. I think today is the last day to enter, so see if you can get something in asap.

Happy shopping!

Labels: sites

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Another remarkable book I'd like to share with you!



Title: The Gift of Rain
Author: Tan Twan Eng
Available: Amazon
Type: Historical Fiction

What's it about? It takes place in Malaysia (during the Second World War). Philip feels as an outsider being half-British and half-Chinese until he meets Endo-san (a Japanese ambassador). Endo-san offers to be his sensei... and well, things don't turn out so clear cut..

Is it worth reading? I sure think so. Some might not feel the same, but I loved the history (some fictional), the Japanese and Chinese culture brought together, the story line, and the way it was written.

Is the book easy to understand? It's a long read, but easy to follow, and my favourite part is how Tan Twan Eng described everything.. almost poetic.

Notable pages? I can't narrow it down.. and some will just give away the story.

Out of 5: 5

Let me know what you think!

Labels: review

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Unfortunately, Canada has a vast number of people living in poverty. Those suffering the most, are our Aboriginal children. It is heart breaking to see anyone suffer, moreover when it's a child in our own 'backyard.'

Details of project: Help put together Care Bags for our Aboriginal children living in poverty. Our goal is to put 48 bags together.

Can you sew? Please help make totes. You may make them however you wish, I just ask you keep the handle small (for safety reasons), and make the bag big enough to fit a standard size colouring book. Pattern suggestion: Basic Tote

48 x totes - collected 48 Yaay!

Can you shop? These are the NEW items we need:

48 x Crayons boxes - 48

48 x Stuffed toys - 48

48 x colouring books - 48

48 x (toy) tops - 48

48 x Ducky Sticker - 50

48 x Smile Face Eraser - 1 pk (122pack)

48 x Alphabet stencil ruler - 50

48 x Multicultural notebook - 50

48 x Toothbrush (child size) - 48

48 x Toothpaste - 48

48 x Soap - have 48

48 x Pencil Sharpeners - 48

48 x Eraser top pencils - 48

48 x Face towels -48

You are welcome to suggest other items.

Other ways to help:
:: Know someone who can sew? Buy them some fabric to sew a few bags.
:: Ask businesses if they'll donate items.
:: Please post the banner (on my side bar) on your site, linked to this post.
:: Inform family, friends, co-workers, and classmates about this project.
:: Pray for those who are less fortunate.

How they will be delivered: These will be personally delivered by me to an organization here (in Canada) that helps Aboriginal children.

Participants allowed: International.

Ages allowed: All ages.

Young participants: Encouraged to send in cards/drawings to include in the bag.

Cost Limit: None.

Due Date: Monday July 13, 2009 - or until all items are collected. I will update the site as items are donated.


If you would like to help, please email (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) me for an address where you can mail the items.

Labels: help

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Umm Hibaat and Adikbongsu, here is the seascape I mentioned.


27" x 19" Pastel painting
This was done for my sister. It's not my usual work, as in.. it doesn't have much detail, and I felt pretty free to just layer on the colours without much thought, and so.. it was an enjoyable piece to work on. AlhumduliLlah, my sister is happy with it.

Now to work on something else!

Labels: art

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Here it is,
.... as promised: Hajar, Adikbongsu and Asiyah.


30" x 20" Charcoal painting. Because of all the detail it took a lot of time and patience. (Don't look too close, or you'll spot all the lovely flaws..haha)

This is Masjid Ubudiah. It's located in Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia. If you see pictures, it's the beautiful Masjid with gold domes. Built in 1917 it was commissioned on the orders of the Sultan, who vowed that he would build a mosque of great beauty as thanksgiving for recovery from an illness which plagued him in those early days.

The construction of the mosque was not without difficulties (just like trying it in charcoal!). Work was interrupted several times, once when two elephants belonging to the sultan's and Raja Chulan were fighting and ran over and damaged the imported Italian marble titles. The second time when the World War 2 broke out, by the Japanese Invasion.

... all that's left is me going there! ahh.. one day, insha'Allah - and framing it.

Labels: art

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Thank you to all the sisters who never fail to remind me "it's time for another swap!" I'm going to be a little selfish here, and combine my two loves for this swap. Reading and creating. Suprisingly, it's something I noticed a lot of my readers like as well... so here it is:



Details of swap: This is a two part swap.
1) You will send your favourite book (this can range from a childhood story to whatever you enjoy reading now - Religious/Craft/ Mystery/ - anything) to your swap partner.
2) Once you receive your swap partner's favourite book, you'll read it, and send her a gift that reflects what you just read. Use your imagination, and have fun with it. It can be bought or handmade.

Participants allowed: International. I will email you in back if you qualify to join this swap.

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: None.

Rules:
1) Sent out book - email me and your swap partner.
1a) Received book - email me and your swap partner.
2) Sent out gift - email me and your swap partner.
2b) Received gift - email me and your swap partner.
2c) Blog about it - email me the url: so I can make a list of them (if you don't have a blog.. we'll figure something out)

Sign up due date: Friday, March 20, 2009
Partners will be emailed to you on: Saturday, March 21, 2009

Book must be mailed out before: Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Gift must be sent out before: Monday, April 27, 2009


If you would like to participate, I will need to know the following information. (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) note: .ca NOT .com
Please email me the answers even if you have participated in a previous swap.

QUESTIONNAIRE TO ANSWER
Name of swap: Double Swap
Blog url:
Email address:
Your real name:
Mailing address:
Do I and your swap partner have your permission to post pics of your gift:
How did you hear about this swap:
Comments:


Participants:

Part 1

Umm Bilal (book received) & Yaney (book received)

Umm Obaidah (book received) & Razzberry (book received)

Umm Nassim (book received) & Umm Salihah (book received)

Teeya (book received) & Hijabi Apprentice (book received)

Farhana (book received) & Hajar (book received)

Mommy2h (book received) & Sarah (book received)

Part 2
Umm Bilal (gift received) & Yaney (gift received)
Umm Obaidah & Razzberry (gift sent)
Umm Nassim (gift received) & Umm Salihah (gift received)
Teeya (gift sent) (gift received) & Hijabi Apprentice
Farhana (gift received) & Hajar (gift received)
Mommy2h & Sarah (gift sent)

Labels: swaps

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuh

Jazaki'Allahu khair Sister Hajar for this tag and those in the past. Hopefully my readers aren't sick of knowing more about me!
1. Six names you go by: .. do I really want to share this..
- Farhana
- Farh
- Farhy-warhy (you are not allowed to use this)
- Banana (neice who can't pronounce my name)
- Farhee
- ?

Three things you are wearing right now:
- A silver ring
- Pink abaya
- Claw hair-clip

3. Two things you want very badly at the moment:
- A little artistic talent
- Fries

4. Three people who will do this: ... humm, this one is tough
- Washi
- Umm Omar
- Adikbongsu

5. Two things you did last night:
- Read (The Tales of Despereaux - yes, I know it's a kids book..haha)
- Draw

6. Two things you did today:
- Clean the bathroom.. (yaaay..urgh)
- Wash dishes

7. Two Things you ate today:
- Cheese sandwich
- Ginger cookie

8. Two people you last talked to on the phone:
- Asma (niece)
- Abdullah (nephew)

9. Two things you are going to do tomorrow:
- Judge an art competition for highschoolers
- Read (The Gift of Rain)

10. Favourite beverage:
- Tea

Labels: me