tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55245855944923178982024-02-06T19:41:16.728-08:00All About Zayd & ZuriA blog devoted to recording the development and growth of my children, Zayd & Zuri.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-41024400909661604152013-04-06T22:51:00.002-07:002013-04-06T22:52:43.073-07:00Waiting for KimnuyhoWritten: Feb. 17, 2013<br />
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My dear sweet children,<br />
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In two weeks, give or take a few days, we will, God-willingly, welcome the newest member of our family. Loving refered to as IKEA, Gordon, Salama, and finally Kimnyoho (Kim-nyoo-ho), everyone is filled with a nervous excitement. <br />
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The idea of going back to baby stage is both daunting and appealing. You two are gaining independence by the second. If we were done having babies, our life would continue to take on a distinctive look of being diaper and sippy cup free, along with people actually being able to follow demands such as "Get in the car!", and "Put your shoes on!". At the same time, the idea of a new life, a baby in the home, overwhelms me with excitement.<br />
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I pray that I have the strength, organization, and fortitude to meet each one of your needs. I know. even with the best of intentions, that there are times when I will fail. I ask you in advance for your forgiveness, as I hold fast to my belief that God is Merciful.<br />
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I look forward to seeing you both grow and expand with the added responsibilities of a new sibling. I know that you both will love him or her as much as you love one another. That alone makes it all worthwhile.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-29300759270376883722011-10-15T23:54:00.001-07:002011-10-16T00:25:49.154-07:00Looking BackThe funny thing about motherhood is that you truly believe that you will remember every little monumental event that occurs in your child's life... until you don't. I still cannot believe that over a year has passed since I updated this blog, and I pray that whatever I did not captures in words, I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">sufficiently</span> captured in pictures. <div><br /></div><div>A year ago I was a breastfeeding, diaper changing, sleep deprived mother. Our days mainly consisted of at home floor play, trips to the library, Watkins Park, and taking <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zayd</span> two and from his twice weekly preschool. I recall it being the most beautiful fall that I'd ever remembered. It was as if the leaves bore witness to the sheer glory of God through the colors in their leaves. We relished fall, and spent much time outdoors in anticipation of winter.</div><div><br /></div><div>We celebrated <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Eid</span> in our home with Grammy 7 G-Dad as our guest. We all agreed that the most exciting part of their visit was the cool luxury van that they rented for their stay. We enjoyed all riding together in style to all of our destinations. We had a Chinese food themed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Eid</span> dinner, cooked by yours truly, which was somewhat a flop-- though everyone was super polite. </div><div><br /></div><div>We road tripped to New York for Thanksgiving, a trip that I dreaded and contemplated backing out of several times, which ended up being quite some fun. Well, as much fun as it could be with a non-sleeping toddler, but we managed and made some wonderful memories.</div><div><br /></div><div>As per tradition, we spent a little over a month in Cali with your gracious grandparents, shortly before the new year. Unlike most years, this time we were accompanied by your father, happy to use his new work from home status, to check out the Bay Area. We eat <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">a little</span> bit of everything, road-tripped to LA to see your aunt, and discovered/rediscovered many Bay Area jewels. It was on this trip that you father and I made a firm resolve to move back to the Bay Area as soon as possible. We found ourselves much more connected, extremely happier, and much more at peace in the area. We felt the Muslim community, the diverse culture, and the scenic beauty made for a good place to call home. It was a scary decision, however it seemed pretty inevitable. The DC Metro never felt like home to either one of us, and it was becoming increasingly hard for me to "find my happy place" in the area.</div><div><br /></div><div>Watching the friendship develop between you two has had to be one of the most prized experience of my life. Hearing you all joke and laugh in your bedroom, past your bedtime, watching the never ending excitement as you two visited the animals at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Watkin's</span> Park, oatmeal every single morning while listening to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">nasheeds</span>. I am eternally grateful to have spent that time with you... even though you all literally drove me crazy about 75% of the time. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-12423567207911028272010-08-03T20:01:00.000-07:002010-08-26T15:53:35.633-07:00Plane, Trains & Automobiles -- Summer 2010Z-Team,<div> This is our first day home after a month of being on the road. Thirty days, two states, two sets of grandparents, and more memories than I can ever count. Allah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">SWT</span> is truly merciful. Our trip was amazing. I'm supposed to be unpacking, so I'm going to just log a few of my favorite memories in bullet form. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Insha'Allah</span>, I'll go into more detail at a later date.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cali:</div><div>- Your grandmother's cooking (all time favorite for all of us)</div><div>- Riding the steam train with Uncle Ismael</div><div>- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Jummah</span> at Lighthouse</div><div>- Going to the beach with Grammy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jeddah</span> after <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jummah</span></div><div>- Riding the cable cars & spending the day in San Francisco with the whole family</div><div>- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Zuri's</span> 1st birthday at Fairyland</div><div>- Playing in the backyard</div><div>- The weather</div><div>- Catching up with The Bay Area community</div><div>- Watching you two play with your grandparents</div><div>- Walking the lake and farmer's markets</div><div>- Watching you two play with my brothers</div><div>- Spending time with The Thomas Family</div><div><br /></div><div>Texas:</div><div>- Spending time with your grandparents</div><div>- Going out with your father while your grandparents watched you two</div><div>- The circus</div><div>- Backyard water play</div><div>-Swank date nights with your father</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I know I am forgetting so many things that made the trip special. These are just a few of the things that really stuck out to me. Overall, I just thank Allah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">SWT</span> for his mercy by bestowing such loving parents on your father and I. I truly pray for many more summers like this.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-16228149982798757812010-07-11T00:21:00.000-07:002010-08-03T20:01:30.244-07:00365 Days of Zuri<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIstSqwIuL7n1HvrGEM7KOsNy68zZ68vgYyHNTxDHBgT8f0AGhLk2COllbS4yFSbp87GCAnXrdO1KciltD1qvgJAiB-1UJNKJt2szTwS03TsiJrJDXqLuSUAiRqdiOyskoS7AklmOnBOMW/s1600/IMG_1786.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 388px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIstSqwIuL7n1HvrGEM7KOsNy68zZ68vgYyHNTxDHBgT8f0AGhLk2COllbS4yFSbp87GCAnXrdO1KciltD1qvgJAiB-1UJNKJt2szTwS03TsiJrJDXqLuSUAiRqdiOyskoS7AklmOnBOMW/s400/IMG_1786.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492559216584164658" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">365 days can be converted to one of these units:<br /><br />* 31,536,000 seconds<br />* 525,600 minutes<br />* 8760 hours<br />* 52 weeks (rounded down)<br /><br /><br />I remember clearly, this time last year, being angry, hot, past due, and feeling mild contractions. Since we all figured you'd come around late June, early July at the latest, I was past tired and annoyed with the waiting game. The thought of going through labor again scared the living dayligts out of me. I was told, as most people are, that the second time around would be quicker and more intense. The idea of pain more intense than what I felt with Zayd down right terrified me. I think, well at least in part, you stayed inside a little longer to help me mentally prepare for the task at hand. I remember going to jummah the day before your birth and finally feeling ready to face the unknown. i tearfully pleaded with Allah to "get this baby out of me" so that I could begin the journey of geting to know you.<br />My labor intensified by the morning. I remember cleaning the bathroom at around 11am and talking to your auntie. I told her that I was in labor, but that I wasn't going to "tell anyone", because again, I was past due and onry as they come. After scrubbing the bathrom to my satisfaction one last time, your father, your grandmother, your brother and I proceeded to the park to take a slow and contraction filed walk aroud the lake. I will say, for July 11, it was mercifully cool that day. I remember stopping ever so often to do my nice pregnant rock and sway on your father's shoulders. We actualy had a wonderful heart to heart in between contractions on a bench by the lake, while your grandmother played with your brother at the park.<br />Next, we headed to Panera, because a girls got to eat and all. By this time my contractions were super intense, and I was once again annoyed that everyone else was laughing and enjoying themselves at the table, while I felt like my insides were splitting open. I managed to eat my food anyway, even though my stomach felt like a tight ball.<br />Next, upon my insistance, we headed to Walmart for something random like paper towels, that I felt I just had to have before I had my baby. Being the prepared people that your father and I are, we also picked up a birthing ball and a few things for my hospital stay. What I remember most about Walmart is your father and I obsessing over finding a video long enough to keep Zayd's attention while we were gone. As much as I knew you were coming, my brain was still very fixated on insuring that your brother was comfortable while I was gone. I didn't want to leave him. I remember that vividly.<br />My contractions were pretty intense in Walmart-- gosh this sounds so dang on suburban-- a lot of nice onlookers stopped to offer their support. I had another big one or two in the parking lot, which dang near scared this poor man to death. Mom suggested that we head straight to the hospital once we dropped she and Zayd off, but Khalid and I both felt it was too soon.<br />At home I some how found a way to wobble my huge butt up three flights of steps to get into my bathtub. To say that sitting in that warm water felt good would be the understatement of the year. Somewhere around this time, the thought that had been firmly rooted in the back of my mind began to fel like the best decision. I wanted to go to the hospital about as much as one wants to get a limb cut off. My doctor was on vacation, we never actually did the hospital tour, I didn't want to leave my mom and Zayd, and I felt so very comfortable and safe in my home.<br />Your father was dashing around like a mad man packing his hospital bag. The fact that he was doing this while I was in active labor kinda pissed me off a lot, and is something that I still hold over his head. Mom kept bringing my iced tea and other good things to eat and drink. She tried very hard to get me dresed to go to the hospital. At this point I remember sobbing and telling her that I didn't want to go. She tried to have this talk about how I had to and it would be okay, but I found her much more comforting thatn last-minute-hospital-bag-packer, and the thought of leaving her was just not an option.<br />Mom managed to wrangle me into some maternity clothes and Khalid went to load the car. By this point I was down right sobbing about how I didn't want to go. I made it down one flight of steps, my water broke,and the pain became unbearable. I remember letting out a loud howl, hearing a huge splash on the floor, and being brought down to my knees with the intensity of the pain. Mom was still desperately trying to usher me down the steps so that I could get into the car to go to the hospital. I knew, clear as day, that me getting into a car at this point was not an option. Mom kept insisting, so I did what any reasonable person would do on all fours climping down their staircase-- I began to push. You mother is a champion pusher, masha'Allah, I've been doing Kegels since way back, and pushing to me is the one satisfying and redeeming thing about labor. I love to push, and as I crawled down the steps on my hands and knees, that's just what I did. I will never forget your grandmother telling me to stop pushing. Always the willful child, that just made me go at it with more intensity.<br />By the bottom of the stairwell, I substantially certain that everyone was on board with the fact that I was going to have you sooner than I'd be able to get to any hospital. Your father matter-o-factly said, "Yeah, she's crowning". At ths point my discomfort level was about 900%, so I begged for a pillow to put under my back so that I could push you out on the floor with some dignity and all.<br />So I lay there on the floor, with your grandmother acting as midwife, and your father acting as birth coach, while passing instructions to yor grandmother via 911. Poor Zayd was so frightened by all the screaming that he holed himself up in the guestroom and looked at us al like we were insane. I remember him calling out for me, and me trying to reassure him that I was okay. A few screams and three good pushes later, you came into this world riding a sea of amniotic fluid. Zayd ran over and exclaimed, "Ohh, a baby!". You waved your left arm in the air as to catch your bearings and let out the sweetest little baby cry. My heart melted and I felt that new baby love that is primal and intense.<br />The super nice EMT guys came and took us to the hospital. I spent most of the night just holding you and looking at you; too high on adrenaline to even sleep. You had the fatest little red cheeks and these little eyes that just seemed wise beyond their years.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Always the rebel, we fought like crazy to get released early, and you were home, in my arms by that next evening. </div><div style="text-align: center;">That's your story Baby Girl. I pray that your life is as unique and as exciting as your entry into this world. </div>The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-34308005579430638332010-06-13T07:32:00.000-07:002010-06-13T08:10:47.179-07:00Zuri at 11 MonthsI can already see you at 16 chastising me for not writing more post about your early development. Admittedly, going from one to two in less than two years was a bit of a doozy... the understatement of the year, but we made it. Alhamdullilah. <br /><br />So, what can I tell you about your newly 11 month old self. First off, let me tell you, once again, that you were the best little surprise baby I could ever not ask for. I wanted another child so close to Zayd as I wanted a hole in my head, but truly Allah is the best of planners. You came with your sweet little angelic face and captured the heart of the entire family. Strangely I vaguely remember you not being here, because your arrival seemed like a rewind of parenting Zayd.<br /><br />Here are some fun little antidotes about you:<br /><br /><br />- You cut your two bottom teeth this week.<br /><br />- You are extremely verbal. Your favorite noise is "Dinosaur Scream", as we've lovingly/ not-so-lovingly named it, a shrill high-pitched battle cry . Dinosaur Scream manifest itself when someone takes an object from you, when someone won't pick you up fast enough, when someone takes a foreign object out your mouth, when Zayd pisses you off, when stranger get to close,when you are foprced to get into the carseat, and occasionally during undesired diaper changes. Dinosaur Scream is special...<br /><br />- Your next favorite thing to say is "Yeah Yeah". This is used as an answer to any question that sounds remotely inter sting to you, and also is sometimes just pronounced thoughtfully while playing with toys. You also do a nice "Buhh Buhh" and a " Dahh Dahh". Did I mention your "Eii Eii".<br /><br />- You have no interest in any developmentally appropriate toys if Zayd is anywhere around. You are perfectly content snatching his toys and coveting on all things power cord. <br /><br />- Your most recent trick is to demand to walk alone. You'll pull your hand away from us and walk as quickly as you can in the direction of your choosing. Lucky for us you're not that fast yet, but I know that is coming sooner than later.<br /><br />- You like to eat rice, beans, peas, spinach, broccoli, a little meat from time to time, and any soft fruit. You seem to still love pears.<br /><br />- You love music, and I am so happy to FINALLY have a dance partner. You love to dance round the house with me, bouncing and shaking your little self on my hip.<br /><br />- You wear a size 3 diapers and can techinally still wear 9 month clothes, but I put you in 12 months because you are little but kind of long.<br /><br />- You are still as bald as the day is long. Everyone tells me to be patient and enjoy your wash and wear style, but I do secretly pray by two that you can have a ponytail or something -- I mean just something. <br /><br />- Your eylashes are ridiculously long. The curl up and touch your eyelids.<br /><br />- I can always distract you by saying , " Oh, where is Zayd"...<br /><br />- You get extra excited about books with babies faces in them. I feel kind of bad about that discovery, because you've mostly just been a tag-a-long reader to anything your brother picks put. Now I'll be sure to check you out a few more books from the library.<br /><br />- You are still a boob monster, bottle boycotter.<br /><br />- You stink right now and you are crying to be held. So yeah. That's you in a nutshell. Now back to you.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-18425505715523073582010-05-09T19:07:00.000-07:002010-05-09T20:07:37.324-07:00Long TimeLong time no we. <br /><br />Zuri's love for all things metal finally short-circuited my computer cord. I cant help but laugh at the rust brought on by baby drool. Zuri is running around making folks nervous on the playgrounds. She climbed two flights of steps last week and began walking around on the top floor like she'd won the Olympics. Zuri is my baby girl, my heart.<br /><br />Zayd is so full of energy. I was recalling how much he used to bounce around inside me when I was pregnant with him. I remember he kicked soo hard on May 27, when we caught our flight to Paris. Zayd is my little hype man.<br /><br />I pray Allah(SWT) today and always that I cherish my role as mother, and continue to strive towards being better at it. My main goal for the remainder of the spring & summer is learning and preparing for Zayd and Zuri's fall education. I have a LOT to learn, but alhamdullilah, I have some amazing role models and an amazing support network, masha'Allah. So that's about it in a nutshell. <br /><br />Mother's Day 2010The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-174488668651602192010-04-19T19:00:00.001-07:002010-04-21T12:57:18.593-07:00Zayd close to Three<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_5161u_ESRdknm6-6vybKfg-2vfVMVmvW9xjOdQgTeI0e0tIECv4KM0ZmEyhsWPGv_PqA09lphvblieUlM6Fy__nlg4Q2kv_FJ1MYYt5i8K9cKMmtxhxiycFSPtNafxuAG9kgtm1RVuF2/s1600/Photo+826.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_5161u_ESRdknm6-6vybKfg-2vfVMVmvW9xjOdQgTeI0e0tIECv4KM0ZmEyhsWPGv_PqA09lphvblieUlM6Fy__nlg4Q2kv_FJ1MYYt5i8K9cKMmtxhxiycFSPtNafxuAG9kgtm1RVuF2/s400/Photo+826.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462037435960132706" /></a><br />You love to look at me and tell me that you're "going to school," and I "can't come". Admittedly I was slightly offended the first three or four times you told me, but now I support and encourage your decision. Assert you independence little peanut headed boy. I'll step back a notch or two, but you're not getting rid of me and Baby that easy. <br /><br />Baby seems to be a mixture between a pet and a playmate to you. It's hard to really play with someone who just wants to eat your stuff and wreck all of your Lego buildings. At the same time, Baby is always around and pretty much down for whatever. As such, you often times just make due. You are quick to put Baby on time out for the slightest of infractions. She seems not to mind your passion for discipline -- thus far at least. She thinks your are the bee's knees. I pray that she always foster a high opinion of her big brother. <br /><br /> You all laugh at each other while eating breakfast. If I put the music on and time it just right, I can actually take a shower while you two laugh, eat, and listen to music -- joy. I'm so happy that you have each other. I am so thankful that Baby has you as a big brother. You are very serious about your Do-not-touch-my-baby-sister threat... I really think if you focused on the knee cap, you might actually be somewhat effective. Man, you are such a lover, not a fighter. <br /><br />On love. Zayd, you fall in love about three times a week. It always starts with you noticing that special someone between the age of 3 and 50; you making funny facial expressions and babbling; you going in front of said love interest and speaking inchoherently while twisting your body back and forth; blank stare from you heart's desire; me telling you to put your tongue back in you mouth... You remind me so much of myself that it both pains me and cracks me up. I told your father that single sex education will likely be a must in your case. You like pretty shiny things my love. Remember that your mother called it first. <br /><br /><br />Today you fell in love with a young Ethiopian, and a blond girl in a stroller sucking on a pacifier. I think the stroller chick was kind of feeling you too, but I'm not encouraging such behavior. My beautiful first born, all <span style="font-style:italic;">growed </span>up..The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-34842476151370191032010-04-19T18:47:00.000-07:002010-04-19T19:27:52.637-07:00Zuri at 9 months<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtIsu5O0QeEkwc_jibX46wNAraTPAmGDx_A06XQZeIO12Cz4UnozvJsTfe6XLaZ0sCAQeo2zia17ZrptNQOex82uwAxtmXnEsZIf15fimTqPoRTKBYUG3g_0Kb-AvKrgt_cW2IjUdFQ-a/s1600/Photo+883.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtIsu5O0QeEkwc_jibX46wNAraTPAmGDx_A06XQZeIO12Cz4UnozvJsTfe6XLaZ0sCAQeo2zia17ZrptNQOex82uwAxtmXnEsZIf15fimTqPoRTKBYUG3g_0Kb-AvKrgt_cW2IjUdFQ-a/s400/Photo+883.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462033508335950450" /></a><br />Zuri Mamma is what I call you. You are the sweetest little toothless thing I've ever seen. You walk like you're on stilts-- your knees don't bend, and you are so ecstatic at your new found freedom that you literally fall over with pure joy and excitement. Zuri Mama. You are so shy around new people. It's funny getting to intimately know a shy person. In the home with us you are full of jokes and plenty of lip if anyone takes anything you feel rightfully belongs to you. Outside of the house, you are all about head hiding and arm clinging. You are my adorable little fuzzy headed koala bear. <br /><br />Zuri Mama, I adore you. I'm so used to you sleeping in the crook of my arm that I often find myself positioned just such in my sleep. Zuri Zuu, you are still a late night milk monster. I wake up feeling like I ran a half-marathon each morning. Sometimes I wake Khalid just so he can listen to your greedy night gulping. We both know that technically big butted 9 month old babies don't have to nurse 50-11 times a night, but that doesn't seem to phase you. You are bedroom hater #1 extrodinaire-- you sleep RIGHT in the middle of the bed. <br /><br />Zuri Mama, what type of woman will you be? I have mu hopes, dreams, and aspirations for you, but you have your own path to walk upon. I'll keep my thoughts between Allah and I..okay, at least I'll try. Zuri my love. My favorite surprise. My heaven sent friend. My daughter. My baby girl. The best of me, I pray. The best of me.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-34371650664465239892010-03-18T04:21:00.000-07:002010-03-18T04:26:14.827-07:00Until We Meet AgainAt my dearly beloved Deep Southern, old-school, back country, boardig school, we used to sing, "May His Peace be with you, till we meet again". I still love that song to death! Anyway, it abut that time to round up, revamp, reflect, and rebuild. As such, I will be taking a short, insha'Allah, hiatus from my blogging. However, like most bloggers, the urge o "share" is so strong that I seriously hope this break light the fire under my arse to really do what I want. So please remember my for my little band of hooligans in prayer, and I'll do the same for you.<br /><br />May His Peace be with you.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-91490182979118253342010-03-13T12:02:00.000-08:002010-03-13T12:09:44.713-08:00Slow & SteadyZ-Team,<br /> One can say your father and I are "slow and steady", or one can say that we two just are slow. We are FINALLY putting the final touches on our epic task of....... wait for it.... wait for it..... switching rooms for you two. Our '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zayd's</span> Big Boy Room' has been a pestering project since -- say, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zuri</span> was born.<br /><br />Twelve list and fifteen <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ikea</span> trips later, I think we are at the finish line ----- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">insha'Allah</span>. Mind the accent wall that I am so set on doing--- which never seems to get done... ever. So one bookshelf, one dresser, one toddler bed, one new duvet cover, one rug, curtains, hangers, organization mesh net thingies, wall decor... yeah, as you see it's one thing after another. <br /><br />Your parents are on the cusp-- right there on the edge. Let's just all <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">collectively</span> pray to God that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">ths</span> project gets done before <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Zayd</span> refuses to switch rooms. If that happens, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Zuri</span> is going to have the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">flyest</span> transportation themed room on the block.... and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Zayd</span>, yeah, well the nursery technically is still his room.<br /><br />Okay, I have to go upstairs and micromanage your father. He totally loves it when I do that.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-66394536579895815522010-03-12T09:56:00.000-08:002010-03-12T10:02:41.654-08:00Zuri's First StepBaby girl. You let go of an overturned basket in the living room, got comfortable with a little hang time, then carefully took your FIRST step. I saw it! I saw it all! What a Merciful God is He. I get giddy just thinking about it. I don't know of anything as exciting as watching the evolution of the human brain. Days like this I know that I am EXACTLY where I'm supposed to be. Gosh, if I can only remember that on the bad days.<br /><br />Thank you Allah for these beautiful children. Thank you for allowing me to watch so many aspects of their development. Thank you for a beautiful daughter who took her first step today. Thank you for her hilarious big brother. <br /><br />God Is.<br /><br />** I totally made your big event my FB status.***The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-44753571026854811022010-03-09T00:34:00.000-08:002010-03-09T00:42:43.656-08:00What is vs. What Ought to BeI read a case in law school, where the judge made a good distinction about "what is", versus "what ought to be". I don't know, but the sheer truth of that statement really hit home with me. Hypothetically, one would think if one got up at 3Am to have some "personal time" in the bathroom, one would be alone. I mean hypothetically and all. However, what "is", isn't always what "ought" to be. So when Zayd decided to curl up in my arms and join me on this hypothetically 3Am bathroom trip, I was kind of cool. I mean not really, but too sleepy to care. Now when Zuri woke up screaming and trying to get to the new "Party on The Toilet", things got a little strange. Parenthood is some hilariously unpredictable stuff. That is both, "what is", and what "ought to be".<br /><br />As salaam alaikum.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-3508502988380801342010-03-08T19:24:00.001-08:002010-03-09T00:34:42.005-08:00I love days like this.<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zayd</span> & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zuri</span>,<br /> I enjoyed spending the day with you two -- for the most. Playgroup was quite some fun. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Zuri</span> stole the show by literally running across the floor using a push toy. People get <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">nervous</span> to see a child so little so mobile. You are something else Little Girl. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Zayd</span> enjoyed playing with so many different personalities. I love the most when he finds <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">anothe</span>r <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">little</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">aggressive</span> bossy kid to butt heads with -- the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">dialogue</span> is hilarious.<br /><br />I listened to music and cooked up a really good meal, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">masha'Allah</span>. I was so proud of it that I made it my status update on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">FB</span>.<br /><br /><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}"><span class="UIStory_Message">Grilled Green Curry <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Tilapia</span>, soy ginger broccoli with assorted peppers, Kaila rice, & a shredded ginger, red onion, carrot salad. What did you cook him/her tonight? <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Seriously</span> curious.</span></h3><br /><br /><br />Okay: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Zuri</span> in Ergo. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Zayd</span> sleeping. Khalid finishing kitchen. Me about to crash while can.<br /><br />God is Greater. God is Greater.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-68542432697199720932010-03-07T17:06:00.000-08:002010-03-07T20:07:06.351-08:00WhirlwindA whirlwind of good activities is always a good thing. Alhamdullilah. This weekend was one of those whirlwind times. An aqeeqah and wedding in different parts of Virginia -- hours away from each other different parts-- made this a mileage intensive, but wonderfully fun weekend. <br /><br />I got to meet sweet little Baby Abiade. He is little, adorable, and loud. Zayd got to play with his good, good, buddy, "Adeew". Khalid and I got to spend some short, but memorable time with one of our happiest and chillest coupes friends ever. Alhamdullilah. There is nothing more comforting than being in a home filled with Sakinah --- our families were collectivelly chill-laxing seriously hard. Did I mention that Auntie Kalia made the BEST sweets, yet again, for the baby's aqeeqah??<br /><br />I spoke at the lovely walimah of my dear friend Miriam. We went to law school together, and she is as kind and loving as they come, masha'Allah. Okay, your mother is so tired that she can no longer see straight. The good thing is, the weather is supposed to be nice tomorrow, insha'Alah. We are going to be out as LONG as possible!! Z-Team!! Bring it on Monday, insha'Allah.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-56635905429878531022010-03-03T04:41:00.000-08:002010-03-03T05:06:43.163-08:00Good Morning LovesAs salaam <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">alaikum</span> Z-Team,<br /><br />It's 7:41AM, and for all intensive purposes, this is the time that can make or break our day. Your father just left, frantically, after trying to do a million things. I think that man gets about 4.5 hours of sleep a night. (I have to help enforce a bedtime routine with him...wow, I sound like a mom.) Poor thing, he worked late, only to come home to find me sprawled across the bed with Zuri sleeping on my back in the Ergo Baby. I know I gave him the greetings, before pleading for him to "take her" off my back. On a brighter note, he loved the dinner that I made especially for him... I didn't see him eat it, but he told me such.<br /><br />Wow, that sounds <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">extremely</span> pessimistic and self defeating, but I've found it to be true, more times than not. Without proper planning, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">preparation</span>, and set goals, life becomes a little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">mor</span>e "challenging" than normal -- and surely Allah knows best.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Alhamdullilah</span>, I've gotten out <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">morning</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">routine</span> much better, but the afternoons still turn into a little bit of a lull or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">pandemonium</span>. Hence the reason why I am <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">calling</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">my</span> babysitter <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">reference</span> today -- high five to myself!!<br /><br />Okay, so this is Week 2 of our organizational change. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Alhamdullilah</span>, things have been going so far, so good. I'm still not giving the bedroom enough time in the evenings, but FORGIVENESS is my theme of the week -- yeah, this includes forgiving myself.<br /><br />So, I've laid out your fathers clothes every day but once -- he beat me to it. I've made his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">lunch</span> everyday but I think once -- yeah, he did it for me again. I've made really GOOD dinners, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">masha'Allah</span>. I am such an emotional cook. I guess that saying, "Happy Wife, Happy Life", holds a lot of truth.<br /><br />You guys seem to be thriving off of having a little more predictability. Okay, that's an abject lie. You all seem to be happy just walking around tearing up stuff, but I seem to be happier, and you all seem to be no less happier, so I see that as a win/win.<br /><br />Wednesday is supposed to be our inside day, however, I'm not sure if I even want an inside day. We've had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">soooo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">maaaannny</span> forced inside days with the snow, that the idea of getting out is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">intoxicatingly</span> fun to me. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Zayd</span> loves it. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Zuri</span>, you might just be the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">sweetest</span> anti-social person I've ever met..and I love you, just as you are.<br /><br />The Family <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Calender</span> was a lovely addition. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Insha'Allah</span>, I can find more working pens -- <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">ohh</span>, my life -- and really pimp-it-out with different colors and stuff. I freaking love organization and predictability.<br /><br />I'm going to shame myself to stick <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">EXACTLY</span> to our house work schedule, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">insha'Allah</span>. It's not too hard, and it really makes life easier. So yeah-- shame..<br /><br />So, right <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">NOW</span> I should be:<br />1. Thinking about dinner (see, I'm late, that was a last nights task)<br />2. Laying out clothes for today (yup, another last nights task)<br />3. Getting dressed to socks (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">umm</span>..nope)<br />4. Checking To-Do List that was written yesterday for today.. (dead silence)<br /><br />Okay, so maybe... yeah, well still it's going better. Not perfect, but better. Gosh, I really need to stop laughing at myself so much. Man, but your mother is funny, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">masha'Allah</span>.<br /><br />Ya Rahmaan, Ya Rahim, let me surrender to being be a mere vessel or Your will -- today, and always. Ameen.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-54839497783880601042010-02-28T18:31:00.000-08:002010-02-28T18:38:34.640-08:00SerenityZ- Team,<br /> You two are sleeping. Daddy is cleaning the kitchen, with Zuri plastered to his back in the Ergo Baby. There is peace in the home. I'm playing a Clean Up Jam that I created on my Mac. It feels sooo good to listen to non - baby music. Actually, that's not all true -- we have an International Lullaby cd from the library that is beautiful. Aghh, James Blunt -- Beautiful is playing.<br /><br />"My life is brilliant<br />My love is pure<br />I saw an angel, of that I'm sure"<br /><james><br /><br />This moment is so good that I think I'll stop blogging and just fully enjoy it. Remember children, God is Good All the time. God is. God is. God is.<br /><br />"You're Beautiful!!"The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-24595493199940075032010-02-26T23:35:00.000-08:002010-02-26T23:41:21.271-08:00Confessions of a Blog Jacker<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zayd</span> & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zuri</span>,<br /> Mommy jacked your blog. She's sorry, but she has a lot <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">she</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">needs</span> to say---- don't blame her. She had a safe home waiting for her "other" thoughts all <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">the</span> while. No real such thing as other thoughts -- but for organizational sake.... fine, and for the three people who might only want to see pictures. all rest-- all 1.<blockquote></blockquote>5 followers...come on, you have to laugh at <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">the</span> irony... All <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">others</span>, please visit me here:<br /><br /><a href="http://conceivabledreams.blogspot.com">www.conceivabledreams.blogspot.com</a>The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-33598725487697249152010-02-26T22:04:00.000-08:002010-03-13T12:28:25.942-08:00Sakinah Circle, cont.Zuri,<br />You are sleeping on the back of your father. Typical Mommy style, I took a picture, which I will, insha'Allah, load later. I slept on the back of my father, I don't remember, but this I know. Little girls should sleep on the backs of their fathers-- what a safe place to be.<br /><br />Zuri, you are a child, and your home and your family should always be your safe place. I pray Allah that these things are true for you your whole life. I am trying, but there is no better effort than prayer and teaching you and your brother knowledge of The Creator. I am but a vessel for Him. The human body is but a vessel for the Spirit- a mother for her child.<br /><br />I love my father. I love my father so much that I wonder if I am strange. He has been a constant friend, companion, supporter, safe place to go. We've had some of the most amazing experiences of our live's, together.<br /><br />I love my husband. A husband is not a father. I soo learned that the hard way. A husband is, for all intensive purposes, a father in training. Guess who does the training -- ah haa, the wife. It's difficult, yet not impossible, to train a man to be a father, if he has yet to be a husband. There is wisdom in the saying of the elders.<br /><br />I love Him. He who created mankind. I love Him the most. Or so I purport. I love Him the most, yet I mention Him last. My paradigm has to shift:<br /><br />God<br />Husband<br />Father<br /><br />Lol. OUR PARADIGM has to SHIFT. Love God! Love God! Love God! Then you'll really learn to love your husband -- then through the mercy of your Father, you will really learn to LOVE Him. Ohh, it's a circle-- not a Pyramid. <the></the>The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-79285801692932994622010-02-26T10:21:00.001-08:002010-02-27T13:03:51.650-08:00Death to the Ego!Am I the only one who lives in the realm of backwards knowledge? Its like i insight fully figure out something, Alhamdullilah, then this same "original" thought is proofed by the works of another. Which is then ultimately proofed by the Quran.... Backwards Knowledge. I can't help but-after doing this oh so many times, conclude that this is, by far, this thing we call "life" -- this is a human condition. Not Jew, Christian, Muslim, Life Submitter -- this is The Human Condition. We all need You.. How we got so confused along the way, I do not know. I have so much i want to say abut Your Grandeur and Your Glory. (You know you are sprung when you can't help but think about something... all the time... and then some). I mean what am I supposed to do. The hiding it thing's not really my style -- ha, a, yes, You know.<br /><br />Case in Point: Hi, I'm Azizah Ahmad, and I have a close, personal, and loving relationship with God. Oh, by the way, not only am I not perfect, I'm about as "statistically" as far away from His glory than one can humanly get..Did I mention to you that I'm a women also? A Black women. A Muslim woman? Fine, most people will likely be like - huh? My response, Google Two Words: Aminah Wadud. <br /><br /><br />You see. Oh yeah, You made.... You don't care?? Ohh, I see-- I don't <span style="font-style: italic;">think</span> you care-- yeah, big difference.<br /><br />Okay, let's try this time: (Dark room full of strangers -- Anon-esqe). Hi, I'm Azizah.... (pause for polite responds). I have been emptied out and retrained that this "God thing "was a far-off menacing entity that wanted to burn me in hell for major infractions like --- wait, damn near everything that occurred in my life. Yeah, that about sums it. Then, all of a sudden, He manifested His Glory to me ....... right. They are going to lock me up. You're cool with this? That's who You are? Riiiiggght, I don't even know you like that. Let me look at your card one more time:<br /><br />YOU are:<br />The Majestic<br />The Compeller (clearly)<br />The Mighty<br />The Protector<br />The Guardian of Faith<br />The Source of Peace (amen)<br />The Holy<br />The Sovereign Lord (yeah, that's real swagger)<br />The Merciful<br />The Beneficient.....<br /><br />Yeah, fine. I'll tell the world. I am sprung, punch drunk, head over heels, call-the-radio-station-and -dedicate-a-song-to YOU, sprung on YOU... do you like me?<br /><br />Circle: Yes or No... I can't help it. You made me funny!!<br /><br /><br />I'm gonna get a tee shirt made -- Azizah loves GOD. Yeah-- a little too flashy for my taste, as you know.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-19033508025998533992010-02-26T06:07:00.000-08:002010-02-26T06:13:52.580-08:00CleanThere is a fierce wind blowing outside. The type of wind that encloses the very structure of your harm, warning you to beware.<br /><br />I'd brave it if I had someplace in particular to go, but truthfully, no, not really.<br /><br />Okay, there is Jummah Prayer, but wind, two kids, naptime--Yeah, no, not really. Only if Khalid is home, or I just get ultra desperate...can't say I[ve gotten that desperate yet, but watch me eat my words sooner than later. Thak you Allah for Lighthouse Mosque and their website. Virtual jummah , here we come.<br /><br />So, what do you do on a day like this.<br /><br />I want to clean. I want to clean my home; vacum, scrub, discard, organize, beautify. I want to burn incense and listen to Quran. I want to get a phone call or two -- i want to be my mother's child.<br /><br />Zayd is going to help me. Baby Sistah has already decided that Friday isn't her day-- it's 9:13Am, mind you.<br /><br />Here is to Nag Champa. Dust clothes. Good old bleach. And elbow grease.<br /><br />Mood: 'Elington Was Not a Street' , Ntozake Shange<br />Kids; Zayd Oatmeal. Zuri-- screaming, just a rad-- kinda a mellow scream.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-70505700693668180302010-02-25T12:24:00.001-08:002010-02-25T12:26:11.289-08:00I Love YouI love YOU. I love YOU. I love YOU. I do. May my actions speak louder than my words, but May YOURS too.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-82048660454197707022010-02-24T07:47:00.000-08:002010-02-24T07:56:44.746-08:00On Parenting<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zayd</span>, you are doing art. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zuri</span>, you're abut to go into the Ergo so that I can accomplish some home task, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">insha'Allah</span>. We're debating a winter walk, at least we'll hang out on the deck, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">insha'Allah</span>.<br /><br />It <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">dawne</span>d on me today that what I want for you two is to witness an Islamic Revival. I too long for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Andalusia</span>. Mommy minute-- "Beautiful circle <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Zayd</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ohh</span>, I love it!!". Okay, back. I want a Muslim <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">hom</span>e <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">filled</span> with love, laughter, well loved visitors, not excess but comfort. Not <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Jennah</span>, clearly, but the goodness of this world. I ask for it everyday in my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">du'a</span> --"Oh Allah, I seek the goodness of this world and the hereafter".<br /><br />Wow, what if-- I mean --- I'm supposed to and all. Yeah, I'm going to just --- can we say Yakeen (Certainty). <br /><br />Oh Allah, guide my heart, my tongue, my words, my actions, my deeds. Let me praise You and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">exalt</span> You in the best way that I can. The best of what you made me. I get it -- <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">complicating</span>ly simple. Alhamdulilah.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-61521661053300568522010-02-24T07:12:00.000-08:002010-02-24T07:15:04.431-08:00MawlidOkay, I am clueless how to celebrate a Mawlid, but we will, insha'Allah watch the live web streaming. I pray that can hook up some good speakers. I guess maybe Jummah Mubarak with more sweets?? Clueless. Let me research. <br /><br />(Thank You Allah for Sesame Street).The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-30401323740428485292010-02-24T05:18:00.000-08:002010-02-24T07:40:08.278-08:00Happy Morning9:18AM and Zayd is still asleep. Zuri Mama, you're crawling on the floor babbling something about something or another. I feel guilty grabbing this little swatch of time to write and reflect, but Alhamdullilah, I can honestly say that I've worked hard to earn it.<br /><br />Our organization/housework routine is going well, alhamdulliah. We've both failed in a few small minor areas, but we're both stressing consistency, rather than unattainable perfection. Hey, love what Allah love we both say.<br /><br />I love working with my husband. Wow, that statement is shocking to even me. As much as we bump heads, when it's good, it's really good. I thank Allah for such a beautiful mate.<br /><br />Less chores has allowed me to spend much more time in the place that I LOVE -- the kitchen. I've been putting as much love, prayer, and umphh in my food as humanly possible. Khalid seems to love it. Zayd is a little harsher of a critic. <br /><br />We want to act like we're better than premium fish sticks and Annie's fries, but when you get the best of the best, it's still REALLY good!! I love that it's a dinner tonight that we will all love, insha'Allah. I love my funny food snob husband too.<br /><br />Okay, Zuri fussy butt butt needs direct eye contact.<br /><br />Todays Quranic Reflection: Remember the trials of Job.<br />Task: Teleconference Halaqah preperation. Du'a & more du'a.The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5524585594492317898.post-62749982136499902772010-02-23T11:42:00.000-08:002010-02-25T22:48:36.832-08:00God is, God Is, God IsI've been really thinking lately about taqwa. What does it mean, how does it apply to my life, how do I develop it in myself and cultivate it in my family.<br /><br />What I love about Allah's creation is the internal compass. Most times, when I'm doing something displeasing to Allah, I feel some shame or guilt -- in some aspect of another. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, questioned his own actions at time, and he was clearly in higher esteem with God than I.<br /><br />The moral compass seems to be a good place to start-- maybe even the best. Shortly after, I'd have to say in my own humble opinion is knowledge. However knowledge must be implemented with kindness, and in a way understood by the recipient. Without the kindness, the patience, the wisdom, knowledge falls on deaf ears. I've seen this in my own life at least.<br /><br />Sums it up well. Cited from Al Mahgrib Institute.<br /><br /><br />One of our Muslim ancestors said:<br />"How sweet Iman is when it's beautified with Knowledge.<br />And how sweet Knowledge is when it's beautified with Implementation.<br />And how sweet Implementation is when it's beautified with Kindness.<br /><br />The greatest pair of things is Implementation coupled with Kindness."The Dreamerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12895408786522120583noreply@blogger.com0