Blueberry Muffins are delicious!

Blueberry muffins are a delicious treat for suhoor, so if you sisters can get up early enough make your families or yourself some muffins. My Mom made them for my family this morning complete with oatmeal. Very filling, and I'm not even hungry yet. Ramadan went very quickly! We only have 11/12 days left depending on the sighting of the moon, alhamdulilah! I got this really pretty Cinderella-copy baby blue dress. It's so pretty, but now I need a nice cardigan, hijab, socks, jewelry, and a hijab. Insha allah on Saturday I will be doing henna to make money for those things, and a few gifts.

Speaking of gifts, I knit my friend A a pair of fingerless gloves. I can't find the name of the pattern I used to give you an idea of what they look like, but they are so pretty. I really want to keep them for myself. Lol. They are a soft lime green with a lime green bow. Then I made my mother a cowl, scarf, shawl thing. It's the Irish Hiking Scarf but I knit it on big needles so that it could be 3-in-1. Next I'm knitting my little sister a Zig Zag Trellis Scarf. Insha allah I will have that finished before Eid if I work hard enough. I still have to knit a few pairs of slippers, some more fingerless gloves, and maybe another scarf if I have time. If not, I'll just buy the rest of the gifts that I have to give.

We have been going to Iftar night at the masjid every Saturday and Sunday. There is so much good food there, the sisters in my community really know how to cook! I have so much fun when I go. My friends are always there, and we have a table reserved for us that we sit at every Iftar Night. Alhamdulilah, I have amazing friends. This Ramadan is going way too quickly. I'm getting used to breaking my fast and fasting so much that it doesn't really feel like anything anymore. These days of Ramadan are like clock work. A typical day for me, get up for suhoor, make fajr, read quran, go do school work, make zuhr, take hour nap, clean house, prepare iftar, more qu'ran/arabic, exercise, Isha/Taraweeh, bed time. Then it starts all over again.

The Qu'ran reading is going great. I'm still memorizing surah al-Fajr. It's a beautiful surah, but it's taking me awhile to memorize it. My younger brother has memorized more of it than I have, but we all work at different paces. Speaking of learning, school started yesterday so I'm doubly busy.

This Ramadan has been amazing for me so far! I love Ramadan, I love being Muslim! Alhamdulilah! May Allah bless and guide us all! -Nisa

Things you should have in your purse!

I have put together a polyvore set for the things that you should have in your purse! I have the problem of filling up my purse with the basic needs, so this is a basic guideline for me. I hate having to carry around a half empty purse, but I don't want it to be too junky either.

1. Pocket Mirror

2. Extra tampon or pad

3. Three million different kinds of lip gloss

4. Chewing gum


5. Matching Eye Glass case

6. Sunglasses that match with almost anything

7. Hand cleanser

8. A book/ Noble Qu'ran

9. A pad and pen

10. Hand lotion

11. Clear nail polish

12. Eye liner and Kohl

13. Wallet that does NOT match.

14. Cell phone

15. MP3 Player

Charity, Kindness, and Random musings

Today I really am feeling hungry, but I can handle it. I'm keeping my mind off the idea that hunger pain sharks are ripping at my stomach. OK, so it's not that bad. It's just uncomfortable. I believe I am keeping control of my temper. Haven't had an argument with my siblings yet. If they do something to irk my nerve, I just keep it low-key. Doing a great job over here, alhamdulilah! :D

Last night we did attend taraweeh prayer. I wore my blue abaya with a blue hijab and white under cap. My friends were all there. The sheik let his son and brother lead a few of the prayers this time, so we had three different types of recitations last night. Alhamdulilah, it was really nice. There were more men there than usual, but not many more women. That's usually the case at our masjid. My friends were talking of an organized sleep-over at the masjid. The young sisters in one room, and the brothers in another big room. To be quite honest, I don't think I would feel comfortable. For one, if we have to sleep in hijab that is no fun. If we don't, what if someone comes in? Two, I don't like waking up looking at a whole bunch of people who have just woken up. Three, what if someone steps on me while trying to get to the bathroom? No thank you, sleeping over at the masjid seems like a terrible idea. Maybe a huge late night get-together, but not a sleep over.
This morning for suhoor we had cheerios, apple sauce, and water. My Mom wasn't feeling well so we were expecting her to cook. I can cook, but I don't like to cook. Rather not risk burning our suhoor, so we just ate cereal. It was really yummy anyhow. I am still trying to memorize surah al-fajr. Tonight insha allah I will do Qu'ran. I don't know if we will be attending taraweeh at the masjid tonight. We'll see what my Dad says.

I have been thinking about giving charity. On my own. As an individual. What could I give as charity? I don't have much money, but I can knit. So I think I will find an organization to knit preemie baby hats for. That would be such a nice thing to do. I love babies. So insha allah I will try to do my best. What about you? May allah bless and reward us all! -Nisa

All I can think about is food...

This is the fourth day of Ramadan. I missed yesterdays post. You know how Mondays are, hectic. So, on Monday we had Oatmeal mixed with unsweetened apple sauce. It was soooo good, and so filling. It kept me full all through the day. I wasn't even really hungry until 7 PM came around, and the hunger pains started their attack. Alhamdulilah, that was a wholesome suhoor. Then we had Spanish rice and chicken for Iftar. We did not pray taraweeh at the masjid, my brother led it at home instead. Yesterday went by so quickly, I forgot that I was fasting. I practiced the surah Al-fajr yesterday for my daily dose of qu'ran. Beautiful surah with a beautiful meaning.

Today for suhoor we had cereal. I had Apple jacks and a banana. Yummy! I do not know what we will have for iftar tonight. I do think we are going to attend Taraweeh at the masjid tonight, so insha allah we will go. I will probably wear my blue abaya to the prayers if we do go. It is a little heavy, but I can handle it. It's not all that hot today either. It's actually very cool. Allah is ever merciful! I'm going to read surah al-fajr again today, insha allah. I have no idea what I will be buying for my friends for Eid. I will probably go to two festivals to do henna to make money. Then I can buy an Eid outfit, and gifts for my family & friends. May Allah bless and reward us all! - Nisa

I'm hungry!

This morning for suhoor my family had Oatmeal and peaches. It was delicious! I'm feeling a little hungry now though, but I think it's because we went out to visit Grandparents today and my aunt was cooking. So now I feel a little weak and hungry, but I only have three hours left! We read a few more pages of Surah al-baqarah after Fajr in both English and Arabic. My reading is getting better, alhamdulilah. Little bro still needs some help, but he reads very well.

I think my family is doing an amazing job of keeping good temper. No one seems irritated at all, and I know that I'm doing my best to avoid argument. That's probably one of my worst traits, quick tempered. Last night we attended Taraweeh prayer again at the masjid and we had Iftar there. I ate Moroccan cous cous, fried chicken, russian salad, Spanish rice, spiced chicken, and mixed rice. Oh, and a piece of chocolate frosted cake. When we came home I had some ice cream, a chocolate donut, and some pistachio nuts. Believe it or not, I did NOT eat as much as it seems. It all tasted /really/ good though. I mean, really.

So insha allah we will probably attend taraweeh prayer again. My Dad is making chicken enchiladas tonight for iftar. I truly do love Ramadan. May allah bless and reward us all - Nisa

Taraweeh Outfit: Summer Grass Green

If you attend taraweeh after Isha at the masjid on iftar nights, you want something nice, but not too formal to wear. I usually wear a nice skirt or slacks with a long, long blouse. The outfit I created below is a beautiful green, perfect for summer and beginning of fall wear. Please sisters, do not forget to bring socks with you to the masjid. Your feet must be covered so that you can make prayer.

I am so in love with that brooch and hijab! I am still trying to find the perfect green hijab because it goes really nice with the color of my skin. The only green hijab I have is a really dark green, but it's way too thick. I like hijabs that are thin, and easy to wrap. Oh, from the conference that we went to so that we could give out speech I bought two hijabs. One is a pale pink, and the other is a hot pink and black color. Both were really cheap, and they're really nice! In fact, I'm wearing the hot pink & black one to iftar at the masjid tonight insha allah. :) May allah bless and reward us all! -Nisa

Ramadan Mubarak Everyone- From Nisa's Family to yours!

Alhamdulilah, Ramadan is finally here! Last night I attended Taraweeh prayer at the masjid last night. It was really nice, but my feet started hurting half way through the prayer. Insha allah tonight we will attend it again, and we will have Iftar at the masjid. This morning for suhoor my family had pancakes, eggs, milk, and fruit. Yummy! It was a filling breakfast, and I'm not really hungry. After Fajr we sat down and read surah al-fatihah, and a few lines of surah al-baqarah.

It's not really hot outside today. I was a bit nervous about it being hot and fasting. I fast on Monday and Thursdays, so I should be used to it. Alhamdulilah, the weather is really nice today. Insha allah ladies I will try to blog everyday of Ramadan so that I can keep you updated. I seriously can't believe Ramadan came around so quickly this year! May all of you have a blessed Ramadan! - Nisa

The big day/Ramadan preperations

Tomorrow is the big day of our (my friends and I) big speech at a bigger masjid. I believe I told you ladies before that we will not be going to the really big masjid where we were supposed to go, but a doctor will be speaking so the people who asked us to speak switched it to a masjid smaller than the original, but bigger than ours. Alhamdulilah, we will have the honor of speaking either way. We will be speaking about the Wives of the Prophet instead of hijab. Everyone else speaking at the conference will be lecturing on Ramadan. Insha allah, I really hope everything goes well. I'm nervous, but super excited. We also have to cook something to bring, and we have no idea what to cook! Oh nooooo! Insha allah, I will probably wear my blue abaya to the conference because blue looks really nice on me. :D I love blue and pink clothing!

Have any of you begun preparing for Ramadan in any sort of way? The most that my family has been doing is preparing breakfast/dinner menu's for the four weeks of Ramadan, switching around schedules, deciding what to do for Eid gifts, and fasting on Mondays and Thursdays. We will probably be going to Iftar nights on Saturdays and Sundays at our local masjid. Everyone will have to cook something and bring it. Or, we can send something to the masjid for those that will be there. Either way, I'll be spending time with my friends and family during the holiest time of the year! Alhamdulilah! My family and I will also take turns reading the Qu'ran in the morning while we are cooking breakfast so that insha allah we will finish the entire Qu'ran before Eid day. I am knitting a scarf as a gift to give to someone, and I have plenty of other things on my list that I need to start knitting! I also need to find an Eid outfit, and I have no idea what it will be. So, how does your family prepare for Ramadan? Insha allah I will try to blog everyday of Ramadan, because I love documenting these things. It will be something to go back and read during next years Ramadan. Let the count down to Ramadan begin, I am fully prepared to bring myself closer to Allah, to finish the Qu'ran, and to spend time with family and friends! May Allah bless and reward us all! ~Nisa

Around the house style: Pink Slumber Party

If I could walk around my house freely, I would definitely wear this style. A short pajama-like shirt with a pair of flip flops. It is so comfortable! I personally love flip-flops especially because they are like slippers without covering the whole foot. I hate wearing socks or traditional fluffy slippers in the house. My feet need to be free, but protected. So flip-flops are the best alternative for me. As for spaghetti strapped dresses, they are so comfy to sleep in, and hang around in the house in...especially in the summer time. May Allah bless and reward us all! ~ Nisa

All Natural Hijabi: Kitty Litter Mask!

Ladies, today I have an new all natural face cleanser that will blow you away. You may use this on a daily basis if you have a few tinkling kitties around. Yes, kitty litter. I am not talking about the kind that has deodorizer in it or the clumping kind. All natural clay kitty litter. It MUST say 100% all natural ground clay. Alot of the times, these all-clay kitty litters are the "cheap" brands of litters, which is fine for a economically thinking hijabi! A big bag will usually last months, because only a small amount of litter is required when using it as a mask. The mask is a great acne treatment, and I have read that it gets rid of acne within a few weeks of usage. The litter is basically the same ingredients used in the expensive spa facial treatments...only it's cheaper.

You will need:

1. A bag of ground 100% clay kitty litter. NOT litter that has deodorizer or clumping ingredients. It MUST say clay only! DO NOT USE KITTY LITTER THAT HAS BEEN PEED OR POOPED ON BY A CAT!

2. A bowl and spoon
3. Water
4. All natural moisturizer

Take a tablespoon of kitty litter and place it into the bowl. Add a tablespoon of water and mix it with the kitty litter. Once the water looks brown and cloudy apply only the watery part of the mix. Do not put on the paste it makes because it is way too rough on the skin. Leave the mask on until it dries or for 15 minutes. Wash all of the clay from your face in a circular motion. Pat dry your skin, and apply your favorite all-natural moisturizer. May Allah bless and guide us all! ~ Nisa

References:
1. http://beauty.about.com/od/fragrance/r/catlitter.htm
2. http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2008/02/kitty_litter_facial_poll.php
3. http://www.ehow.com/how_2122981_make-cat-litter-facial.html
4. Michelle Phan - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-x6hCI9X0g

For more All Natural Hijabi skin care tips and recipes, please click on the tags below!

Reporting live: Nisa!

I'm sorry sisters about the lack of posts, I've been busy this week! On Saturday my family went to our Muslim family friends house. It was really fun, but we didn't get back until a little late. Then Sunday was family, but we didn't go but I still didn't have access to a computer. It has gotten a little hotter here now, but I can't complain because alhamdulilah; I've had a cool, breezy summer so far! It's just a bit humid now, and always thundering. I like thunder anyway. Insha allah I will have another All Natural Hijabi post for you all tomorrow. May Allah bless and reward us all! ~Nisa

Juma Mubarak! + Popping Oranges Outfit

Juma Mubarak everyone! I know the times around the world are different, so you may or may not have already attended Juma. You also may just be getting ready for Juma, or you are already there. Regardless the time, Juma mubarak! It is my favorite time of the week, I mean sincerely! I don't go for Juma (my Dad does), but I feel the excitement of it! I have done a set that I think would be nice to wear after the lecture at the masjid (orange is a bit too bright). I love how orange and black mix together. I don't limit colors like that to pagan holidays like Haloween. They are just COLORS.

I don't know, now that I look at the colors they don't look so bright. Plus, it's only a small amount of orange. What do you ladies think? May Allah bless and reward us all! -Nisa

Babies and small children! ♥

I love babies so much, I can describe them in one word. Adorable. Well, if someone asked me to describe babies in one word, I would. However, there's so many more words that I can describe them as. Adorable, fluffy, sweet, cuddly, cute, beautiful, a blessing, and all that mushy jazz. :) My teacher from my masjid just had a baby, and I had watched her baby grow while she was pregnant. It was so weird seeing her baby out of her stomach for the first time. The baby is beautiful (the picture to the left is not her)! I was amazed when I touched one of her perfect little toes. Masha Allah! I love babies so much!
At our masjid, there is a large community of small kids. On Family day events it gets kind of hard to control them all, but my friends & I do a pretty good job of keeping them in check. We play games, talk to them, and cuddle them (even though they aren't our children so we can't keep them! Lol). I cannot wait to get married, finish my schooling, and have myself a baby. Although, I am a little afraid of them growing up. Because when they are 18 you can't cuddle them like that anymore. Then what with all of the terror birth stories, I get really nervous. Other than my little fears, babies are such a reward. Ladies, if you have babies you should be sooo thankful! I am so jealous when I hear that someone is having a baby, but I am also excited for them too. Alhamdulilah.

All I can do for now is play those virtual "baby" games, and play with my baby doll. Lol. Insha allah one of these days I will be blessed with a little one myself. :) May Allah bless and guide us all! -Nisa

July Sisters Youth Conference

On Sunday my best friends, sister, and I had a conference. Before we began the conference, my friends & I helped set up the tables, podium, did henna (I did my Mom, myself, another girl, and Sis double you), and food. Then we talked, and had a little bit of then. When the people finally arrived, we talked about the Wives of the Prophet (saw), as I told you all before. It was great! All of my friends did their essays nicely, even my friend who doesn't speak English very well. She did amazing! This time we stood in the Musallah and spoke to the audience over speaker. Some people took pictures, and some took video recordings, alhamdulilah. Wipe the horrified look of your faces, there were no men. :P Not one, except for some sisters Husband and my friends brother. They stood outside for three hours waiting for us to finish when they didn't have to, subhanallah.

Afterwards we had a bake sale and henna art. My Mom made coconut pound cake and Patti Labelles carrot cake (I do NOT like carrot cake at all, but this cake was delicious! You NEED to try this cake! We didn't add raisins though.) My friend # 1 made home-made brownies and strawberry cake. Friends 2 & 3 made these Moroccan cookies that are made with honey, and strawberry cupcakes (she made 54!). Friend #4's mother burnt whatever she made. Friend #3 and I also did Henna Art. I had brought my portfolio, but she didn't bring hers...so she used one of my patterns. I did one little girl, and she did the little girls sister. When the conference was finished we made Asr, split up the remaining cakes among each working family, and went home. I was so tired! We were going to go to a soccer field to play soccer afterwards, but everyone was too tired, and it was too late!

As for my Henna, insha allah I will be having a Henna Art business because my customers that I do randomly really like my work. Insha allah I may also be doing Henna art for a bride at my masjid! I can't wait!! Next month we will be going to a big masjid that is a bit far away to do another conference on hijab. We are really excited about that too. We were supposed to be doing a speech on hijab at another masjid that is closer, but the sister wants us to do it in front of MEN and women. We were like, no way! So insha allah we we will see. May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

Around the house style: City lady!

I love just a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. You can dress them up with a few pieces of jewelry, some make up, and a cute hair style. This style could also be worn outside and hijabified with a hijab and one of those really, thin shirts to go underneath.

A good hairstyle for this set would be the pig tails in the picture. As for make up, a bit of grey eyeliner, dark blue eye shadow, and lash extending mascara would work well. Remember, the make up should be light. You cannot make salat with too much make-up on. You don't want to waste your time reapplying all of that, now would you? May Allah bless and guide us all! - Nisa

Parent V/S Teen; Who has the upper hand?

In todays society, some teenagers think they have the upperhand. Yelling at their mothers, arguing with Dad, getting loud when told not to do something, and ignoring parents when they are asked to do something. Subhanallah, I really hope this isn't the case with Muslim teens. Allah (swt) and the Prophet (saw) tells us to respect, obey, and take care of our parents. Mothers of course deserve the most respect, but parents are supposed to be treated kindly regardless.

“And your Lord has commanded that you shall not serve (any) but Him, and that you shall show goodness to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, say not to them (so much as) “Ugh” nor chide them, and speak to them a generous word.”
Noble Qur’an, Surat Bani Isra’il (17) Verse 23

In this surah, Allah tells us to show goodness to our parents, and when they are old we are supposed to repay them by taking care of them. Being undutiful and rude to your parents (MUSLIM OR NON-MUSLIM) is one of the greatest sins that you can commit.

Narrated Anas:
The Prophet was asked about the great sins He said, “They are:–
(1 ) To join others in worship with Allah,
(2) To be undutiful to one’s parents.
(3) To kill a person (which Allah has forbidden to kill) (i.e. to commit the crime of murdering).
(4) And to give a false witness.”
{Volume 3, Book 48, Number 821 : Sahih Bukhari}

You don't have to wait for Mothers Day or Fathers day to come around to treat your parents kindly. You should thank your parents every day that you live. What if you die and you are waiting for that useless holiday to come around? You waited for that day just to thank your parents? How will you answer to Allah for it? How will you answer to the fact that you treated your parents with disrespect, but decided that you'd "treat them nice" for that day? Small acts of kindness such as doing what they ask you to do without giving them lip, doing your chores, studying hard, and helping them out are all small things to do.

You should never, ever hesitate to help your parents when they have a problem. Even when you are an adult, you still have to obey your parents. None of that "I'm twenty-one and grown now..." crap. That isn't Islam. Islam says to obey your parents, so you do it! If you disobey your parents, you are disobeying the Prophet (saw), and if you disobey the Prophet (saw), you disobey Allah (swt)! See how all of these things connect?

Your parents loved you, cared for you when you were helpless, and protected you from harm. "Blah, blah, blah," you may say. Yeah, it's the same old story. It's the same old TRUTHFUL story. Thank your Mother for enduring that pain when she gave birth to you. Thank your Dad for providing food for you. Thank them both for protecting and loving you. May Allah bless and reward us all for being dutiful to our parents ~ Nisa

All Natural Hijabi: Brown Sugar Scrub

This recipe for a brown sugar scrub can be used as a daily cleanser. It leaves the skin feeling extremely silky soft and looking radiant. Wallahi, your face will feel like a baby's butt! Seriously! You can also use it on your hands, feet, and lips.

Brown Sugar Scrub

You will need for a basic face scrub:
1 table spoon of Light or Dark Brown Sugar
1 table spoon of Olive oil
A wash cloth

Mix the brown sugar and olive oil together. Smear on the face and scrub GENTLY in a slow, circular motion for one or two minutes. When you are done, wash the sugar off of your face with luke warm water. Your face will feel very greasy. Take the wash cloth, wet it, and wipe off your face. Rinse your face off once more with cold water (to avoid having to do the ice treatment afterwards, use ice water), and pat dry your face with a soft towel. Moisturizer shouldn't be needed, but if you have extra dry skin applying a dime sized amount of Aloe Vera can't hurt. Let everyone feel the difference in your face. Beautiful, bright, and soft! If you have any left overs (your hands should already feel soft), use it on your lips. May Allah bless and guide us all ~ Nisa

Town Style Hijabified

When I was on my way headed to play soccer with my masjid, I spotted this Asian lady in my town. She was eating ice cream, and strolling to her car. She looked so cute and fresh. Not only that, but she looked half way modest. So, I decided to hijabify her cute town style.

The style is so easy to do! It's fresh, slightly simply, and stylish. The Asian lady had a short sleeved cardigan on, so I added a long sleeved cardigan. How cute is that? The only thing she did not have was the necklace and sunglasses. I added those because I love long necklaces and sunglasses. As for a hijab, I would wear a pale yellow one, or the white one in the set. Or both! Polyvore is making it a bit hard to find hijabs to go with the sets, so I'll just start suggesting them here. Oh and for that little revealing part by the neck when you wear the tube tops, just drape your hijab so that it covers it nicely. May Allah bless and guide us all! -Nisa

Bossy know-it-all!

I'm always telling someone (in a kind way) that something is haraam. Every time I turn around I'm reminding someone to sit down when they eat, not to spray too much perfume on in public, certain candies are haraam, or that skinny jeans are haraam if a long shirt is not worn below the knee (my sheik spoke on this subject, and he will speak again about it more firmly so it's not my "opinion"). I told my mother how I feel, and she said it was my duty as a Muslim to correct others when they are wrong. Well, to be honest I feel like a bossy know-it-all. I'm tired of being the one to always say something, and it doesn't feel very nice. Do any of you ever feel hesitant to correct someone for fear that they will take it the wrong way?

Around the house style: Ooh pink! ♥

I think you probably all know that one of my favorite colors is pink. It goes great with my skin tone, it's "feminine" (although I try hard not to associate colors with genders), and it's such a happy color. This set looks a bit more like what someone would just "throw on" in the house.

Being simple can go a long way, just as long as it's done right. Making do with what you have is part of what sparks creativity! I love those sneakers in the set though! Also sisters, perfume inside the house only! Wearing those tight shorts around brothers or older sons may not be the best thing to do, so opt for pink sweat pants if you can. :) The make-up should be kept to the minimum. You can't make salaat if your face is doused in make-up. So if you don't want to have to reapply your hard work, don't make a fuss over your face. Looking like this:
Is unacceptable, and ugly. D: A nice application of kohl, non water proof mascara, lipgloss, and a light application of eyeshadow is totally in. All of those can be re applied without too much inconvenience. Oh, and please don't eat my M&M's! :D May Allah bless and guide us all! -Nisa

An-Nisa; oh no!

This coming week at my masjid we are having Girls Youth Gathering. People from other masjids are coming to our masjid, and we have to speak on the topic of the Wives of the Prophet (saw). Last month we put the names of the Wives in to a hat, and picked. I had to write an essay on Zainab bint Jahsh (R.A). I finished writing it last week. I really loved writing about her, she had such a beautiful story! If you ever get the chance, please read up on her. So yeah, I finished my essay and I am to read it on Sunday. I am the MC again (well, I was elected to be a permanent MC for our monthly girls youth gathering). I still have to write up a introduction, and the "quiz" for the end of the conference on the Prophets Wives.

We will have prizes for those that get answers right. Two gift certificates for free henna that costs $8.00's and under (from my bestie and I), hand made hijab pins, and my friends will probably think of some more ideas. That's all going to be in order, but that isn't the problem. The problem is that I'm being forced to learn an ayah (or a few verses) from surah An-Nisa because it has something about Hijab in it. It's really nerve wreaking! Plus, I need lots of practice before reciting in front of people, and lets face it; my voice isn't all that pretty to listen to. Make dua for me, please!

Insha allah, I hope this conference goes well. We are supposed to have a bake sale on that day too, and we are going to be raising money for our masjid again. I think my Mom is making mini cheese cakes and lemon pound cake. My bestie and I will be selling henna art again. I love doing henna art, it's so much fun to watch people smile at what they think is so beautiful on their hands. It makes me really happy inside. Alhamdulilah.

I don't know what I'm wearing this time. My bestie and other friends had planned to dress in green & white together. I don't have anything green and white. So I'll probably wear a black dress, and add color to it. I haven't decided, but whatever I decide I hope it'll be okay. On Saturday we have last minute rehearsal, and we have to organize everything for Sunday.

Oh, and remember the speech on hijab my friends and I did? Well, we are invited to TWO masjids because the people liked it so much! Both are really big masjids! However, at one masjid we might do our other speech on Adaab, because we are getting tired of doing the hijab one over and over again. Insha allah, we'll see! May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

Honest Scrap

*Bismillah* (astagfirallah! I've been forgetting to add Bismilallah!)

I was tagged by sister Nailz for an "honest scrap", thank you my dear sister! :) I love doing tags, they are so much fun!

To do the Honest Scrap tag... Here's the deal. 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've been tagged (a quick comment on their blog will do). Don't forget to link back to the blogger who tagged you.

Okay, here it goes...

1. I am a knitter and crocheter. My last blog was a blog about my hobby on knitting and crocheting. I won't say the name of it because the website isn't working. Shame on me, shame on me. I had a knitting magazine and everything. I guess after awhile I sort of became a bit more interested in other things such as keeping up with my Masjids community, going out with my Muslim friends more often, and just being really active. I'm more interested in reading blogs about other Muslims like me, about Hijab fashion, and visiting another turn in my life. Insha allah I will go back into knitting. I was hoping to try it today because I want to knit/crochet some things for my friends for Eid. In that picture to the right is a pair of slippers I made for myself.

2. I love cleaning. There is nothing better to me than cleaning up and making everything look sparkly clean. I can't sleep in a messy room. If one thing is out of place, I have to turn back on the light, and put it neatly in it's place. I think this really annoys my sister, but I can't help it. I feel so uncomfortable in my own bedroom. I'm really trying to stop this. Like, even if the top of my laundry bin is off, I have to put it back on. No, there is nothing mentally wrong with me...I just think I need to feel comfortable.

3. I love to drink hot tea, my Dad loves to drink tea, my family loves to drink tea. I was brought up with "tea time" as a family thing, and as a rare treat. I guess this stemmed for my love of tea. Even in the summer, I will relish a cup of steamy tea. I hope that before the summer ends I will have a tea party with my friends. At least before school begins again. Insha allah.

4. I am a full course honor student. I have honor roll classes in Math (I do intermediate college math), college level Language Arts (been in honor roll since I was 10 and my reading level was 11th grade), honors in Science, honors in Social studies, and honors in creative writing. I work pretty hard to keep my grades up, and I think it's because I really want to please my parents. Besides having a strong belief in my religion, making my prayers sincerely, being obedient, keeping my chores in order, the last thing I want to do is keep my grades up.

5. I love to read. I will read any book, any place, at almost any time. When I was younger, I used to read books all the time. I didn't even stop to go to the bath room if I had to. I would read until I were finished. I finally got rid of that seemingly bad habit. It's just the feeling of connecting with the characters, and visiting different places in my imagination. The most frequent books I read now are the Qu'ran and Hadith (I need the knowledge so that if someone is accusing me of doing something "wrong", I can let em know how it is. Hehe.). I do still read a book once in a blue, but like knitting, I've curved that hobby down a bit.

6. I am really close to my Dad. I know that if I'm in trouble with Mom (I'm close with her too, but a bit closer to my Dad), he'll make me feel better. He always does. He can tell the funniest jokes, and now that I'm a lot older...he acts more of my age. People always tell me how funny my Dad is and how lucky I am. Yeah, I know I am. :) I love you Dad.

7. I try almost everything I can to keep acne, oily skin, and extreme dryness at bay. It's not a self-esteem issue, I just love for my skin to feel really nice. If I feel that my skin is too oily, too dry, or really dirty I feel pretty out of place. My love for healthy skin is shown in my All Natural Hijabi sections of this blog. It just shows another part of my personality. It also stems from my loving to feel "girly". Lol.

8. I am extremely sensitive like my Mother. The smallest things may hurt my feelings, and it's not something I'm proud of. It's actually really embarrassing. I can easily cry if something if I feel like I am being disliked. I try to make sure that people don't see me cry, so I know that they don't know they have hurt my feelings. Usually people can tell when I've been crying, or when I am about to cry. That's the worse thing about it. When I heard about the crisis in Gaza, I cried my eyes out. Thinking about all of those babies dying...oh it was horrible. If I read a sad book, I cry and everyone looks at me like I'm crazy. If I watch a sad movie, tears trickle down my cheeks.

9. An ironic contrast to being a cry baby, I say things most people wouldn't say. For example, friend 1 thinks friend 2 is hanging out with friend 3 alone too much, is being bossed around by friend 3, and is ditching us. All friends after the number 3 agree with her. I am the only one who says to friend 2 to either bring friend 3 with her, or to not be friends with us at all cause you can't be two faced. Shocked faces, shocked faces. Now, I'm not a totally blurt mouth. I am "reserved" as my Mother likes to call it. Before I say things, I usually have to think awhile. So I don't just "blurt" things out. I just say things before they hurt another person in a different way. I also have a temper, and I won't hesitate to tell someone about themselves if they make me angry. Subhanallah. I am trying to hard to control my temper.

10. I love animals and the natural world. I especially love squirrels, bunnies, and cats. You know, the cute stuff. I have a lot of things with cats on them, and I have a lot of things with bunnies. I haven't found any things that have to do with squirrels, except that I love to take pictures of them. I love going on hiking trips, fishing trips, flower pickings, and just laying outside enjoying the sun (can't stay out too long, I get sun burn...and then immediate skin peeling!).

And that's it! Ten things about me. As for the people I will tag this time;

1. Never Ever
2. Sister Lela
3. Sister Jaz
4. Slave of God
5. Random Hijabi
6. Sister Lisa
7. Ms. Mango (cute name, huh?)
8. Bengali Heart
9. (Sorry sis, I don't know if you do tags or not, but I'm going to include you any way. :)) Canadian Hijabi/Sister Nazia
10. Anyone else I missed! :)

May Allah bless and guide us all! ~ Nisa

All Natrual Hijabi: Yeast Face Mask

It sounds pretty weird, but get this; it works great for oily skin. I'm talking about the yeast for for cooking/baking. Because it dries the skin out completely, it's probably best to do this one once or twice a week. Now, when I do the face mask I use only yeast and honey. Some people add lemon juice, yogurt, or other ingredients to it. If your a cheap-o hijabi, you'd probably do better with sticking to the yeast only paste. :D Lol.

Yeast & Honey Only Paste

1. Packet of Yeast. Any brand is good, just as long as it is the cooking kind. :)

2. Some water.

3. A bowl.

4. Honey (optional)

Add a small amount of yeast to the bowl. You do not want to use alot or waste the yeast because you cannot save yeast mixed with water. One small package of yeast should last you three facials. The bigger packages last you months. Add enough water to make a muddy paste. Don't add too much water, you know when you've added too much water when it rolls off your face. Make sure that you add enough so that it isn't so thick that it can't smear on your face smoothly. If you want, add a squirt of honey, and mix, mix, mix! Mix it till you can't mix anymore!

Then smear the paste all over your face. Under your eyes, around your mouth, and so on. Let the paste sit on your face until it dries completely. I let it sit on my face until the paste starts to make my face look like it's cracking in all different directions. Don't worry, there's no pain. :) Wash the dried paste off with warm water. Once the paste is off completely, do a double wash with cold water. Dry your face with a towel, and use the Ice Cube treatment. Pat your face dry with a soft towel, and use Aloe Vera or a light lotion for moisturizer. If you want, you can use Honey as your moisturizer. Here is another recipe that uses Yeast and Yogurt only. Here is another one with Lemon and yogurt.

Do NOT store left overs. It ferments and smells really badly. I honestly don't like the smell of water and yeast, regardless if it ferments or not. It's still a really good mask for people with oily skin, and it's pretty cheap! May Allah bless and reward us all! ~ Nisa

The Adorable Blog Award for Me!

I received the Adorable Blog award from my dear sister in Islam Nailz in AUS. Thank you my sweet sister! Also, be sure to visit her blog. She does amazing nail art, they are so inspiring for when you have that special time of the month. :)

So here are the rules of the Blog award

–Include the logo in your blog or post

–Nominate as many blogs which you like

–Be sure to link your nominees within your post

–Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog

–Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received this award

Here are the blogs that I think deserve an Adorable Blog Award!

1. Aalia at My Desert Diary
2. Lnd Hijabi at London Hijabi
3. Jana at Solo Muslimah
4. Stephanie at Muslim Mama (and what a good Muslim Mama she is!)
5. The Reverts at The Reverts Secret

I'm sorry if I left anyone out, this is not about the best blog...cause I love all of the blogs. :) May allah bless and reward us all! -Nisa

Gray Simplicty

Today is a rainy day. :( So I created this outfit to reflect the dramatic turn of the weather. Alhamdulilah for the rain though, it keeps the weather slightly cool. We haven't had too many really hot days this summer, and where I live it usually gets pretty hot! Allahu akbar, he answered my du'as! :D

This style would be great worn to work or to the masjid for classes. It's so cute that I think I'm pretty confident that I could pull it off, the only difference is that it would be in brown though. Imagine that lacy hijab over an under scarf? Just imagine yourself in this outfit! I'm really in love with it! May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

Soccer is a ladies game - move over!

Yesterday I had a very, very long day. It was so long, I stopped paying attention to the time. First, after Zuhr prayer, we went to a barbecue's with two family friends (I mean, two other non-related families). The park was overrun by six (including me) hijabi teenagers, and a bunch of little kids. Haha, it was so much fun! The only part I didn't like was when I was trying to get the soccer ball from my friends little brother, I tumbled head over heels on the grass. Then, I sat up and saw some other non-Muslim family staring at me like I was crazy. I simply burst out laughing. Thank goodness for my lovely sense of humor.

So, after my friends and I ate the typical barbecue (hot dogs, cheese burgers, BBQ chicken, salad, potato chips, a big cake for those who passed the school year, and some soda's) meal, attacked the playground (parents were giving us dirty looks), and almost killing the ducks (I fed them bread, and my friend A [you know who you are A!] told me at the last moment that the police came one time while they were feeding them, and said that they could make them sick!) we went to go make Asr, and then to the soccer field. The girls and women thought that they were going to play soccer, but the men ended up hogging the field and game. So, my friends and I (including another friend who came out...which makes 7 teenage hijabi's) wandered off to eat more potato chips. Until, dun, dun, dun...one friend had a major idea.

Friend (point to deserted net): "Eeyyy...I know what. Let's go play shoot out."

Me (stuffing down chips): "Uh? Whassat?"

Friend 2: ">:|"

Friend: Come on! Pleaase!!

Me: What?

Friend (all the while tugging at my arm): "Let's go play shoot out. Get the ball, come on!"

Me (sighing): "Ya allah..."

Finally all of my friends agree, and we go down to the soccer net to play a ghetto game of shoot out. It get's boring after awhile so we decide to play a twisted version of soccer with one net (ah, reminds me of elementary). Goodness, after all these years of not playing soccer, I didn't realize how lazy my playing has gotten. It took a bit a warm up to get back into the jig of it. Then, I pwned everyone with my amazing soccer skills...until A kicked me in my shin and gave me a bruise that still hurts. Ouch.

Insha allah the next time us girls will play soccer. We have good goalies, and good offenses...we should be able to have our own game too! There were too many men to be playing a semi-contact sport, so we're going to have our own game insha allah! Guess what? I'm still tired from all that running around I did! May Allah bless and guide us all ~Nisa

Around the house style: Hello California!

I have only been to California once in my life, and that was to visit my grandmother. I love it there! It's so nice, and sunny. It's also breezy, and the way people dress is so "californian". I don't want to create any stereotypes here, just want to describe something I can't explain very well with words. Hehe. :) So, this set is dedicated to California.

If you have little brothers or older sons the shorts may not be the best things to wear around them. Opt for a pair of jeans or pants the same color. If you have a private pool or jacuzzi, that's where the bikini comes in...otherwise it's just for fun. :P This s style is very comfortable, and it's perfect for a work out on the treadmill...or whatever. As for a quick, cute hair do...how about the messy loopy pony tail?

How cute is that? I tried this, but my hair was cut short so it didn't come out very well. And I also did it while my hair was still wet. I ended up with no-heat curls on my tail though! May Allah bless and guide us all! - Nisa

Learn some Qu'ran this summer...

So I have a deal with my Dad that if I learn the whole Last Juz, I will be rewarded with a PSP (not that I really want one, I want the money instead!). I am not just doing this for the reward of something materialistic, I want to do it for myself & Allah (swt)! Plus it's a big step towards becoming a Hafiza, insha allah. So, I am trying to work towards this goal. I am going to try to finish the whole Last Juz this summer. Maybe a surah a week? So this week I'm going to finish Surah Al-Bayyinah. One or two ayahs a day for one hour depending on how long the surah is.

I have learned:

Surah 97 - Al-Qadr

Surah 99 - Az-Zalzalah
Surah 100 - Al-'Adiyat
Surah 101 - Al-Qaariyah
Surah 102 - At-Takaathur
Surah 103 - Al-'Asr
Surah 104 - Al-Humazah
Surah 105 - Al-Fil
Surah 106 - Quraish
Surah 107 - Al-Ma'un
Surah 108 - Al-Kauthar
Surah 109 - Al-Kaafirun
Surah 110 - An-Nasr
Surah 111 - Al-Masad
Surah 112 - Al-Ikhlaas
Surah 113 - Al-Falaq
Surah 114 - An-Naas

Surah Al-Bayyinah is pretty easy in the beginning, but I think the last ayah's are the hardest. It's such a tongue twister. :'(



So after that, I'll move onto the next surah. Insha Allah I will finish the whole Last Juz by the end of the summer! If you want to join in the challenge just post what surah's you have learned, what Juz you are going to try to finish, and what surah you are working on. Try to blog about the next surah on the list every week, and also be sure to blog when you finish a surah. May Allah bless and guide us allah! -Nisa

Hey, you big, fat backbiter!

How many times have you sat around in the masjid or just at home on the cellphone bored? You start a conversation with your friend, and you talk about what you did over the weekend. The conversation slowly starts to die until your friend says;

"Hey, remember that really tall girl at the masjid?"

There are two types of back biting, the haraam and the halaal. I am going to address the haraam. Many Muslim girls and women do not actually realize they are backbiting until it is pointed out. Talking about how messy your sisters hijab looked, how bad her kids are, or how big that pimple was on sister Fatimah's face was are all forms are haraam backbiting. The excuse that, "No, it's not backbiting...I would say it to her face!" So why didn't you say it to her face when you were talking and laughing with her at the masjid on Sunday? Why wait until Tuesday afternoon to say something about it to someone else? The worst form of backbiting is making fun of someone behind their back to make someone else laugh!

"Jameelah smells like onions cause her Mama cooks Spanish Rice! Hahahaha!"

Do you not know what Allah says of backbiting, gossiping, and slander?

O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion, in deeds some suspicions are sins. And spy not neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting). And fear God, verily, God is the one who accepts repentance, Most Merciful. (Surah al-Hujurat ayah 12)

Backbiting is like eating the (human!) flesh of your brother or sister who is dead! How disgusting and repulsive is that? If backbiting is so hateful, why did you tell Amina that Sarah's fingers were bony and skinny? Even though sometimes you may not mean to backbite, you do. We all do. No one is perfect, yet we should try our hardest to avoid it. If you are bored, and you have nothing to talk about...you shouldn't invite people over to your house. That's where backbiting and gossiping usually stems from. Boredom. Keep yourself usefully active in the Muslim community, or talk about the future...anything except for someone else when they aren't present to defend themselves. This doesn't exclude non-muslims! Just because someone you are talking about is not Muslim, doesn't give you the right to talk about them!

Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: "Who protects his tongue from unlawful utterances and his private parts from illegal sexual intercourse, I shall guarantee him entrance into Paradise." (Bukhari and Muslim)

This is An-Nisa reminding you just in case you forgot! (Hehe Baba Ali!) May Allah bless and guide us all! ~ Nisa

Minty Beach Wear

For a summer trip I would really like to take a trip to the closest beach. The closest one that I know of is a man-made beach, and I guess that is good enough. I would still like the real deal though. I haven't been to a beach in a very long time, and the last time I went I was little. So, maybe one of these weekends when the masjid classes are closed I can ask my dad. Atleast before the summer ends. Just a day trip. Probably unlikely because I am so active in my masjid this summer! Insha allah, the masjid is going to Six Flags on Eid so we are raising money. Anyway, I created an outfit of what I would wear to the beach;

I would try to wear something similar to that, and I'd try to find a Kiwi smoothie too. I would go shopping just to find an outfit like that. To me it just says "I'm going to the beach today!". Insha allah, one day we will go...but for now I will just be content with going to the river. :) May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

All Natural Hijabi: Egg Mask

*Bismillah*

Egg masks are good for people with oily skin. It also brightens your skin, fights acne, tightens the pores, draws out oils, and is loaded with proteins for the skin. This mask is best done at night as opposed to in the morning. The yolk is a natural moisturizer, and the whites is like a toner. You can also just use the whites after doing another face mask.

First, get one egg.
Then get two bowls and a fork.
Crack the egg and separate the whites and the yolk. Put the yolk in one bowl, and the whites in the other.
Whip the whites until it is bubbly.
Take some of the whites and smear it all over your face. You can do the unders of the eyes too, because it seems to help with getting rid of those dark circles. Just be careful to avoid the actual eye.
Let the whites dry on your face. Rinse, and pat dry your face.
Then, take the yolk and smear it on your face. It will feel very moisterizing! Let it dry, and wash it off. Pat dry. The skin may or may not feel a little itchy. If it does, put a little more moisturizer on. A little bit of lotion or aloe vera should do. Here's Michelle Phan if you need visual help:

Remember when doing ANY mask or facial rub in outward circles to prevent wrinkling. Also, be gentle on your face! Use warm water to wash off Masks, and cold water afterwards to close pores. IF you want to look refreshed in the morning, use the ice cube technique under your eyes. Works beautifully! May Allah Bless and Guide us All. ~Nisa

A Hijabi Graduate

*Bismiallah*

One of my good friends is graduating today, alhamdulilah! All things are possible by the will of Allah. May Allah bless and guide us all! ~ Nisa

Around the House Style: It was all Yellow

*Bismiallah*

Yellow is such a pretty color. Actually, it's my Moms favorite color so this set is dedicated to her. I love the summery feel of this outfit. It's so cheerful, and light. Not only that, but it seems a bit vintage, and I love vintage clothing.

Oh and flip flops are so comfortable! I love wearing these things around the house! To me, they are better than slippers. I also love the sounds they make when you walk. Lol. Flop, flop, flop...fffttt.

A beautiful french braid would go with this style! French braids are so pretty! Except, when worn under hijab it sort of looks like you have a bumpy head...so...not recommended!



May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

Cool Anchor Blue

I love how white and blue colors mix together to create the perfect sets. I love the color blue because it looks really good on me. It brings out my complexion, and it cames in many different shades. White is a little hard to keep clean on me. Hehe. I am such a sloppy eater, or I play too many games that require getting dirty. So when I wear white I have to be a lady (though I try to be very lady-like all the time).

This set is so pretty and cool looking. I am dying to try it out, and I especially want that purse! I don't know what it is, but I really love stripes and polka dots. Lol. Imagine wearing this outfit to a beach sitting on one of those big rocks by the sea? Or while your on a cruise staring into the sparkling water? To me, this screams SUMMER time and water! May Allah bless and guide us all! ~nisa

All was well...

*Bismillah*

Last Saturday I went to the conference where I was to speak. I went early to help clean up the masjid, and arrange the food. My Mom made baked macaroni and potato salad...and I almost didn't get any! People started arriving while we were cleaning up, setting up food tables..etc. We were a little behind time when the actual conference started. The theme was about Prophet Muhammad's (saw) life and teachings. It was a pretty good conference, and about five Imam's spoke. The sheik of my masjid told my friends and I that next Sunday (this Sunday) we will have a sort of "quiz show" with maybe prizes (!!!). The lectures were mostly stuff that I knew already because I read the hadith a lot.

After the lectures we finally got to eat. I was starving because I didn't eat lunch before I left home. As we were getting our food, I looked for the food my Mom made. It was almost all gone! Luckily, my friend A saved me some potato salad. ;D I took some BBQ chicken (best BBQ chicken I have had so far!), Moroccan Couscous (that my friends Mom made...yummy! It's in the picture...I'm serious...it looks exactly like that!) , fried fish, corn muffins, Bread pudding, and some other chicken. There was a lot of chicken. Lol. Then after we ate, we did our hijab lecture! The Sisters really liked it! They liked it so much, that we are invited to speak again at a bigger masjid. :D I did henna on three guests at our masjid. So I made $15.00. My friend M did henna on one person. So together we made $20.00. I forgot to say we went up on our prices because people say my designs are pretty extravagant, and everyone wanted to give me a beat down for accidentally charging $5.00 a hand. Hehe. :P Ooops.

Sister1: (staring at my hand) "OOOH!! Who's doing the henna?"

Me: "Well, my friend and I."

Sister 2: "Really?! Mom, Mom...please?!"

Mother of two sisters (thinking):"Hmm...how much?"

Me (spur of moment thoughtbyaccident):" "$5.00 a hand."

Sister1: "Pleeaaase?!"

Mother of two sisters: "Okay, go get the money out of the car..."

Sister2 (runs off): "Kay!"

Sister 1 and Mother start ruffling through my designs I lay out. Both pick the same flower-vine hand design.

Sister 1: "I want it on both hands."

Mother: "Then I'd have to pay $20.00."

Sister1: "Yeah, I know."

Mother: "One hand is enough."

Sister2 comes back with money and needs change...goes off to find maintainer of masjid, Sis double you. Sister2 picks a design of swirls that goes all over the hand.

Sis Double You comes in to see the designs being taken place. She says to the two Sisters and mother;

"That's a $10.00 design you are getting."


I went home at about 9:30 PM. I had been there since 10:00 AM. Up at 8:00 because I had to help cook, and get dressed. There wasn't really a lot of people that I had expected, but there was ENOUGH people. People that I have never seen before in our community. Alhamdulilah, it was a really fun day. Insha allah, this summer for me this year will be really busy, and it will mostly evolve around my masjid...alhamdulilah! Oh, and everyone liked my dress! :) I also have more followers to my blog...Asalaam wa alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh everyone!! May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

Dead & Gone

*Bismiallah*

Well, Michael Jackson the most well known artist in the world died yesterday. I knew he would die someday, I just didn't think it would come so suddenly. It was said that he was preparing for another concert or something like that. It just goes to show you how powerful Allah (swt) really is. He has control over everything, and everyone. He gives and takes life. Money, fame, and fortune will not allow you to escape death. I grew up listening to M.J as my parents were fans of his when I was younger. So yeah. I've heard accounts that he was Muslim, and my Mom says he IS Muslim. If he did revert to Islam then I hope he finds peace. I find it real sad though, that his last few years were spent in worry. With all those accusations, money problems, and people gossiping...it's no wonder his body gave in from all the stress. Then in the pictures in the news, I see people mourning him in the most ignorant fashion. On the floor, crying hysterically, lifting their hands to the sky...what in the world? I really do pray that Allah is merciful on M.J, and the ignorance of these people do not effect him. May Allah bless and guide us all ~Nisa

The Breeze & the Update

*Bismiallah*

No, the day for my reciting event isn't here yet. The rehearsal is tomorrow, so insha'allah we will be going to the masjid then. I've prepared my index cards, and stuff. I think my friends and I will try to dress in the same outfit colors...hmmm. Oh, I can't find my shoes! :( I am so sad. I had everything all pretty and prepared, and now I can't find my shoes. They may be at the back of my closet, but it's not like I have a walk-in closet. All of my things are impeccably organized, so I have no reason to lose my shoes in my closet. I guess I'll have to keep looking. -sigh- Other than losing my shoes, my grandmother came all the way from another state to visit us & to see me speak! Not only that, but it was a surprise!

Last night as I was lying in my bed a soft breeze smelling of sweet, freshly cut grass blew through my window curtain. Where I live, we have been having cool, breezy weather. Sort of like, tropical weather. It's so nice! I was so thankful for that breeze (and many other breezes), I thanked Allah over and over again. There is nothing like a soft cooling breeze after a rather warm day! Allah is most merciful and compassionate! It set me to thinking about how we as humans take many things for granted in this life. Water, cool breezes, the sun, and the earth in general! We don't know how blessed we are until it's gone. Allah supplies us with the smallest things, yet do you thank him for it? Do you thank him for that beautiful, sunny comfortable day? Did you thank him for the water he gave you to quench your thirst? Did you thank him for that refreshing rain so that your garden could flourish beautifully? Did you thank him for the earth you live on? We should thank Allah everyday for the things we take for granted. We show our appreciation by obeying him, praying our five prayers, saying bismillah & alhamdulilah when we begin and finish eating, and praising him constantly!

"And (remember) when your Lord proclaimed: "If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshipping none but Allah), I will give you more (of My Blessings), but if you are thankless (i.e. disbelievers), verily! My Punishment is indeed severe." {Surah Ibrahim, ayat 7} May Allah bless and guide us all! ~Nisa

I'm going to recite at my masjid!

Yes ladies, you heard it. I'm going to recite and read poems at my masjid this week at a huge conference! I'm excited, and scared at the same time, and there will be alot of people. My friends & younger sister are going to speak on the importance of hijab. I'll be reading mostly poems on hijab, including the one I wrote myself.

Hijabi Personality
By: Nisa (anon)
I respect myself enough to cover.
From head to toe, my body is protected from the eyes of others.

I wear the hijab and I abide by the rules of adaab.
"You're a real beauty," comments my Dad.
I'm still beautiful even if I'm not scantily clad.

Wearing the hijab does not limit me,
I am entitled to my rights to think and be free.
I may be or do whatever I please.
Anything, as long as it doesn't conflict with my deen.

One of these days I will be something great.
People will respect me for my personality traits.
They won't ridicule me for my body weight, and
I will never have to look like an overdone fashion plate.

College is ahead on my future path.
Yes, I'll be studying that applied math,
when I'm done I'll relax in my bubble bath.

No, I won't spend my time over a kitchen stove,
I'll look deeper than that for my own dream treasure trove.

I'll explore the whole world if I must,
and hopefully my dear husband won't put up a fuss.


I'll play sports, soccer is fine.
If you want to catch me, I'll be by the goal line.

I'll kick off my shoes, and shuffle to bed.
I'll wake up in the morning with a tussled head.

06/17/09 EDIT: OH NO!! THERE WAS MORE TO MY POEM THAN JUST THIS. D: Insha allah I will post the rest soon.

Should I change anything? Don't be afraid to criticize!My main poem will be Baby it's all good. I'm sure many of you have heard of that poem. I will also recite a few surahs. My friends will be reading some essays and reading a few other poems. Then my best friend and I will do some henna. The last time we did henna at our masjid flea market and we made about $15.00. They were all non-Muslims though. So at this event, there will be nothing but Muslims. Insha allah we will make enough money to raise for our masjid trips. I got a pretty yellow dress to wear to the event. I can't find the exact dress, but it has thin rope straps with flowers. It also has little sequins running below the breast line. Here is something like what I will be wearing:

I haven't decided on a yellow hijab or a black one. Or both. I could wear a black under scarf with my Mom's soft yellow hijab. Or, the reverse. What do you think? Yes, I seriously wear glasses. Except, mine are not silver. They are brown. ;( So insha allah my friends and I will do good. We are going to the rehearsal a day before the actual event to help clean up the masjid etc. If you don't hear from me, you know I'm preparing my notes, practicing, making hijab pins, and brushing up on my henna art. Love you girls for the sake of Allah! May Allah bless and Guide us all ~ Nisa

Classy Books Part 2

*Bismillah*

And the list of classical books continues...

46. Farenheit 451 Ray Bradbury

Didn't read it, but I heard it was a really good book.

47. A Farewell to Arms Ernest Hemmingway

Never heard of it.

48. Farewell to Manzanar Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston

Never heard of it

49. Fathers and Sons Ivan Turgenve

Never heard of it

50. The Fixer Bernard Malamud

Never heard of it

51. Flowers for Algernon Daniel Keyes

Never heard of it

52. For Whom the Bell Tolls Ernest Hemingway

Want to read

53. Frankenstein Mary Shelly

Read it, really good book. It's not really horror if you'd ask me, though.

54. French Lieutenant's Woman John Fowles

Never heard of it

55. Germinal Emile Zola

Never heard of it

56. Giant Edna Ferber

Want to read

57. Giants in the Earth Ole E. Rolvaag

Never heard of it...I think.

58. Go Tell it on the Mountain James Baldwin

Never read it.

59. Gone with the Wind Margaret Mitchell

Want to read this book really, really badly!!

60. Good Earth Pearl S. Buck

Never heard of it.

61. Grapes of Wrath John Steinbeck

I want to read this one too...all I've watched is the documentary on it at Discovery Cosmeo for school.

62. Great Expectations Charles Dickens

Heard of it, not in great hurry to read it.

63. Great Gatsby F. Scott Fitzgerald

Want to read this.

64. Great Short Works of Joseph Conrad Joseph Conrad

Never heard of it

65. Green Mansions W.H. Hudson

Never heard of it

66. Grendel John Gardiner

Never heard of it

67. Gulliver's Travels Johnathon Swift

Not in any haste to read it.

68. Heart is a Lonely Hunter Carson McCullers

Never heard of it

69. Hiroshima John Hersey

Never heard of it.

70. The Hobbit J.R.R. Tolkien

Not anxious to read it.

71. House of Seven Gables Nathaniel Hawthorne

Not anxious to read it.

72. Hunchback of Notre Dame Victor Hugo

Want to read

73. I Heard the Owl Call My Name Margaret Craven

Never heard of it.

74. I Never Promised You a Rose Garden Hannah Green

Never heard of it.

75. The Iliad Homer

Never heard of it

76. In This Sign Joanne Greenberg

Never heard of it

77. Invisible Man Ralph Ellison

Never heard of it.

Part 2's honorable mentions:

Anne of Green Gables Series - My second favorite classical series about a girl who grows into womanhood...and the series eventually ends off with her daughters perspective. Pretty cool.

Pollyanna - I love this book, although I didn't like the sequel as much.

Rebecca of Sunnybrooke Farm - Read the book. Seriously.

May Allah bless and guide us all! - Nisa