faithfully yours

Hi there!

2011-12-03T21:01:00.000-08:00

Hi guys!

I can't believe it's been so long since my last post. Where does the time go?

As you probably have guessed by my absence, I've been busy getting ready for our epic move across the world.

With three young kids, it's been quite the challenge to manage my time and still get something on the dinner table. Blogging has not been a priority, no offense.

There have been many times I wanted to blog, but was too tired to put in the effort. It was a lot easier to just waste time on facebook or Pinterest ;)

We have two weeks until we move from our lil' quaint town

to this big bad boy!

(image via Pinterest)

I've been a bag of mixed emotions.

I do have big plans to blog soon! Please be patient as I get myself sorted.

Thank you friends.

xoxo

Random

2011-09-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

I'm having a hard time thinking of blog posts. This might be because I am still trying to make sense of this mess I'm in. Trying to figure out what to unpack for three months and what to leave already packed is making me go crazy.

Thinking about leaving it all to go live with the Amish.

For your entertainment I thought you might enjoy reading this list of 25 random things about moi!

1.I would rather scrub a toilet than cook.
2.I hate to cook but love to entertain.
3.I'm a huge procrastinator. Does anyone know if there is a medication I can take for this?
4.I live for my children. Can you be too attached to your offspring?
5.I am a night owl.
6.My heart skips a beat when I realize how lucky I am to be married to the husband.
7.Husband and I are complete opposites.Complete.
8.I love cabbage, asparagus, tomatoes, and lamb.
9.I am addicted to Coke.The drink. I have tried many times to stop, but the force is strong.
10.Same goes for Target. I really should be a board member or something.
11.I think about dying and leaving my children without a mother everyday.
12.I have a magazine fetish. I have piles all over my house waiting to be read, on decor, fashion, health and raising great children.
13.I have eaten string cheese ever since I can remember. I always have to bite the tips off first and then slowly pull it apart.
14.I can't imagine my life without my mother.
15.I. AM. SARCASTIC. Accept it.
16.I am a shopaholic. (Husband, accept it)
17.I like to have multiple projects going at once. Nothing ever really gets done. See#3.
18. I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up.
19.I have always wanted to be an actress.
20.I consider myself very spiritual. My faith has kept me afloat when I thought I might drown.
21.I consider myself pretty optimistic.
22.I am a people pleaser and a total push over.
23.My motto is "treat others like you would like to be treated"
24.My dream is to live in Manhattan one day.
25.I love ice cream. But hate anything in it that has to be chewed. Cookie, nuts, chocolate pieces, etc.

{Malaysia 2011}

Malaysia

2011-09-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

We got back a week ago from Malaysia. Remember how I told you that we rented our house and moved into a two bedroom apartment 3x smaller than our home! Boxes everywhere, it looks like an episode of Hoarders up in here. Seriously. It's all pretty much taken care of, but wowza it was crazy.
I sold/donated 90% of our belongings. I know. I may or may not have had a few anxiety attacks.
Especially not knowing whether or not we were going to make the move. I had high hopes of finding an amazing school for the kids. I should have had lower expectations. At one point I just had to stop comparing everything I saw to America. We have it good here folks. Malaysia is quickly progressing though, I wouldn't consider it a third world country. It's economy is booming and quickly becoming a financial capital for the world.
Although their malls boast shops like Gucci, Hermes, Mui Mui, a trip to the bathroom suggests that some things are hard to get rid of, example; squatter toilets! The first time my kids encountered these, it was slightly funny to have to explain how to exactly go about using them. My youngest refused the first few times (so did I), after a few weeks she realized there was no other way around it, especially since regular toilets got taken up quickly. Enough of this potty talk, let's move on.

While there we made the decision to go ahead and make the leap, with only a few things to iron out with the Mr's work, we were pretty much set on the idea.
We finally did settle on a school that seems to be the closest thing to what we are looking for.We met an awesome expat community, huge group from Britain. While there we were made to feel like we had lived there all along, we were invited to birthdays, home cooked meals, and holiday celebrations. It was so comforting to have met these families and really put my heart at ease about making the move.

So yes, we are moving! "The move" will take place over the last two weeks in December. We are really excited about the new adventures to be had and the cultural experiences we will encounter.

A day of remmeberance

2011-09-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

September 11th is always hard for me to talk about. I try not to think about it, not because I don't want to remember this day, but more for the negative accusations that have plagued the Muslim community since then. So many emotions.
This year my husband and I were invited by a local church to help give the service along with the pastor. We were asked to share a narrative of a survivor, victim or serviceman from that day. As well as our reaction on that day. I chose a survivor (not necessarily someone that survived the towers) It was extremely emotional to say the least. I wanted to go ahead and share with you all what I read that day.

**********************************************************************************

She was five years old and the apple of her dad’s eye. Before even starting kindergarten her dad drove her to Harvard with the promise of big things. Her dad always wanted the best for his family, and always worked hard for it.

She looked up to him like all little girls do to their fathers. And in his big brown eyes and dark thick curly lashes she found comfort.

That morning she woke up early and remembers sitting by her dad as he finished up his morning prayers. She then sat in his lap squeezing his face in her little hands; promises of Chuckie cheese were made.

The usual hugs and kisses were given before her dad left for work that day. He took the subway from their home in Queens to his work downtown.

Her dad grew up in Bangladesh with a masters in physics he knew with it, he would be able to afford a better life for him and his wife so he moved to the land of the free, where opportunity was at every corner. He struggled to find work that met his criteria so like many immigrants new to this country he took any job he could to survive.

Her dad was a waiter at a prestigious restaurant. He knew he would eventually return to physics but for now the job paid well and he felt safe.

Her had just returned to work after having taken off the previous week in anticipation of the arrival of her younger sibling. He couldn’t wait for the baby to be born as the whole family waited in anticipation to find out the gender. Her dad wished for a boy as that would make their family complete. The baby didn’t make an appearance that week so he felt it better to go back to work. Before leaving for work that day he took his pager with him, but made sure to leave his cell phone behind with her mom, in case she went into labor.

That day her aunt picked her up from school not her mom like she usually did.

Her dad worked on the 107^th floor of the north tower at Windows On The World restaurant. His worst fear was fire, the firemen say that he died of smoke inhalation long before the flames reached him.

Her dad's name is Mohammad Chowdhury and he was one of many Muslims whose lives were so abruptly taken on that day.

His daughter's name is Fahina Chowdhury, she is 15 now and she is a survivor, along with her mother and her ten year old brother who was born on September 13^th, 2001.

MY PERSONAL REACTION the day of the attacks:

I was at home when I received a frantic phone call from a friend who was shouting at me to turn on the TV. I didn’t have one to turn on!

She told me that a plane flew into the twin towers! WHAT?! What do you mean a plane? The last thing she said before I hung up was “please, please tell me that it isn’t Muslims!”

I grabbed my son and ran to our apartment complex’s office, where I found people gathered around the TV screen. Just before I could ask what was happening, I watched in horror as a second plane hit the other tower. My stomach flipped and my heart leaped to my throat. What the heck was going on?!?!

In the pit of my stomach I feared what my mind was already telling me, Muslims. How can this be, why was this happening? I walked out of the office before people could turn to me. I was afraid of what they would say. Afraid of their looks.

I called my husband and begged him to reassure me that this wasn’t done by Muslims, I remember praying please God don’t let this be Muslims.

I remember being afraid to leave my house for a whole week. Living in Texas, I was already made to feel like I wasn't accepted, things would surly only get worse.

I was working part time at the Gap at the time. When I finally returned to work the stares I received where piercing, as if I was a murderer!!!

No smile or pleasant interaction on my part was changing their minds. I was seen as the enemy.

For Muslims we were no longer seen as neighbors, doctors or teachers, we were seen as alien and fanatic.

America is my home. I was born in the great city of San Francisco. My parents came to this country to escape oppression. America is all that I know. And the only country I am free to be.

Suddenly I was being yelled at “go back to where you came from!”

For the first time in my life I felt like I didn’t belong.

9/11 was like a double-edged sword, not only did my country get attacked but so did my faith. I felt like I couldn’t grieve like everyone else, I was too busy trying to defend my religion. Something that I now know I don’t have to do. I am a Muslim and I live in this community, among all of you. I am well aware that when I take my kids to school at (*******) or walk into (local grocery store) that I am always representing a faith that is often misrepresented. My parents have always taught me “treat others as you would like to be treated!” which in turn I teach my kids and not just with words but by action.

***************************************************************************

Dreams do come true

2011-08-16T01:03:00.000-07:00

I wished upon a star and it came true!

I love ZARA I can always walk in and find something to buy that is modestly appropriate.

(bought these the other day, super cute. Wish they came in other colors)

(if anyone finds this at their local ZARA buy it for me and I'll pay you back! Seriously)

(I wore this top to dinner the other night with a jade necklace, very asian while in Malaysia)

The clothes are elegant, classic and totally timeless.

They are finally branching out and joining the great world of

e-commerce. They'll officially launch their online sales site on September 7th.
I find this to be slightly disturbing to my checkbook.

Batik

2011-08-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

I took the kids into downtown today to do some traditional Malaysian craft. You basically choose your own pre drawn pattern or you can draw your own. It's stenciled out in wax on to a piece of cloth. So when you go to color in your pattern the wax stops the colors from leaking into each other.

Kind of like those water color coloring books we had as kids, we just wet an area and it each had it's own color show up.

The kids had a blast and we could have easily spent the whole day there. We made a total of seven prints, three of them framed with matting all for RM120 that's $40 dollars.

Pretty good deal!

(pics downloaded from iphone, sorry about the quality)

(Kompleks Budaya Kraf, 63 Jalan Conlay 50450 KL)

www.kraftangan.gov.my

Drool

2011-08-14T00:53:00.000-07:00

Missoni is making it's way to the common folk.

They will launch their made for Target line on Sept 13th.

Can't wait!

The Calypso line to my disappointment was nothing to write home about, but this I am totally excited for.

Jordan of Oh Happy Day hooks us up with all the juicy details check it out here. You can also find a bunch of pics here.

12 years old

2011-08-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

My first born.

When did this happen?

I feel like I've been robbed.

Entering pre-teenage years, not something I am looking forward to. I'm sure there is a manual out there on how to deal with this.

Along the way he has learned to be empathetic, sincere, humorous, kind hearted, curious/annoying, laid back and all around typical boy.

Happy Birthday!

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together.. there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart.. I’ll always be with you.
-- Winnie the Pooh

Ramadan is here

2011-08-12T03:24:00.000-07:00

"The greatest jewel on the crown of the Islamic year is the blessed month of Ramadan"

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is upon us once again. The blessings are immeasurable.

The month paves way for more mercy, forgiveness and gratitude.

Once again the folks at The Big Picture of Boston(dot)com have captured Muslims around the world as they

prepare for this most awaited month.

All images via: Big Picture

(technically Ramadan started the beginning of August)

(Ramadan, say what? visit here)

BlogLove

2011-08-11T00:46:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with this blog.

Beautiful eye candy.

Delight in it.

All images via: luxelife

Cha-cha-changes

2011-08-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

My life has been on fast forward since June. I know I am not the most reliable blogger, but this time I mean it. Crazy. Busy.
I have so many things I want to blog about I just don't have the time to sit and do it.
You think I'm exaggerating!?
Really, I swear.

In June the kiddos had their last week of school. Which includes a whirlwind of last minute activities. Plus I had a lil' someone graduate from Kindergarten.
I had a huge garage/estate sale in preparation for a huge move we might or might not be making (more on that later.)
I had out of town friends visit for one week with their three kids. The house was loud and chaotic and a whole lot of fun! Just the way I like it.
We then left to Chicago for one week. We attended the annual ISNA convention, shopped at the American Girl Doll store, ate our way through Taste of Chicago (no pics sorry, too busy eating) we sat on the pier and watched 4th of July fireworks.
Put our house up for rent. Rented it. Found an apartment to move into temporarily. Moved out in two weeks. All while having out of town family visiting.
Packed for month long visit to Malaysia!

*I sat to write this post three weeks ago*

We are now in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Our family is considering moving here for the husband's work. We are excited and nervous about the changes. But more excited.

I will be M.I.A. for the next month or so.

Until then check out the sweet post Aimie did of our real life meeting!

{Please remember to pray for Somalia}

this little life of mine

2011-06-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

My sister has an fantastic blog that you should really check out.

It's still under construction but she has plenty in her archives to keep you busy.

Go check it out!

NPR:Here On Earth

2011-05-20T09:09:00.000-07:00

My husband and I were invited to speak with Jean Feraca about our film

"On A Wing And A Prayer: An American Muslim Learns To Fly"

Have a listen

Tweet Tweet

2011-05-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Never say never! I never thought I would start tweeting.

But here I am @fthfullyurs

Real life hero

2011-05-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

Do you have someone you admire, a role model, a HERO!?

Like in real life?

I do.

Her name is Stephanie Nielson.

She is an amazing mother, wife and human being.

I emailed Stephanie almost three years ago, when both our husbands were fulfilling a dream of learning to fly.

She was cool enough to feature me on her blog when

I spent a summer abroad in Jerusalem.

It was while I was there that I found out about the devastating news.

I had never met Stephanie yet I had the sudden urge to fly to Arizona and be with her.

Weird, right? Well not if you know her through her blog.

She has a way of making you feel like you're her BFF.

She has an amazingly contagious spirit. No doubt about it.

I have still to meet Stephanie (we'll make it work one of these days) and although her face does not look the way it used to when I first "met" her, I see past that and I don't even think about it.

Because she's a

Super-Star!

Her whole family is, really.

I {heart} Mormons

I'm Muslim and I approve this message.

Watch and be in awe of this wife and husband who live to prove that above all obstacles in life, Faith will bring you through.

Material love

2011-04-18T22:35:00.000-07:00

I recently had a Stella and Dot show. I love their jewelry, it's fun and they have great timeless pieces.

Here is what I got.


here

here

Boring

2011-04-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

This blog is getting a lil' boring, wouldn't you agree? We just got back from spring break in lovely and oh so sunny, San Diego! I love that place, I want to marry it.

The beach.

rest stop

SeaWorld (which I hate because of the whole trained animal thing)

San Diego Zoo (which I also hate because of the whole caged in thing)


LegoLand (which I hate because of the whole boring thing)

But the kiddos had fun and that's all that matters. I got to hang out with one of my good friends and got some shopping in.
Good trip.

excercise

2011-03-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

You will never

attain what you want

until you leave what you desire!

Hijabified

2011-03-25T00:04:00.000-07:00

Scarf; Al Mujalbaba, Long Sleeve crewneck; Target, Black sleeveless dress; TJ Maxx, Jeans; Old Navy, Shoes; Tory Burch

Silver flower bracelet; Forever 21, Rhinestone bracelet; Target

Happy Friday!

Spring

2011-03-21T12:27:00.000-07:00

Lots of big things happening!

Hope to see the fruition of it all soon.

{stay tuned}

Vanity

2011-03-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

My all time favorite mascara.

{L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara}

The best I've ever tried.

Hijabified {mini-me}

2011-03-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

repeat

2011-03-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

This has been on constant repeat around our house!

Stranger

2011-03-14T09:45:00.000-07:00

*I had to cancel on this, too many family things came up at once. I was so sad. Maybe next year*

A few weeks ago I stumbled on this post by stephmodo. About a photographer in Utah, putting together a portrait project of 30 strangers in order to raise funds for the Center for Women and Children in Crisis.

Image via Justin Hackworth

I thought "why the heck not!" So I left a comment and the other day I got an email that I had been picked to participate in the project!
I was so excited, like for realz! I think it's a great honor to be chosen to participate in such a noble cause. So my 8 year old and I will be in Provo on ~~April 19th~~, April 28th, we should meet up!
I know who I'll definitely meet up with, NieNie!

Hijabified

2011-03-11T10:02:00.000-08:00

Scarf; Al Mujalbaba, Gray Tunic; Zara, Black shirt; Gap,

Jeans; Gap, Shoes; TJmaxx, Necklace; Anthropologie

HAPPY FRIDAY!

abc

2011-03-08T13:47:00.000-08:00

My mom made this while she was pregnant with me. It needed a new frame, desperately.

Rather than get it professionally done, I decided to take this on myself.

What do you think?

{BEFORE}

{AFTER}

still trying to finish up the gallery wall in girls' room

kids bath {after}

2011-03-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

I would like to apologize for taking so long to get this posted. A little thing called life got in the way.

Hopefully things will get back to normal.

kids bath {before}

2011-02-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

These are the pictures from the house listing. Check in tomorrow for the after pics.

{After} pictures tomorrow!

winner {Savon De Marseille}

2011-02-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Meghan!

Send me your address.

Hijabified

2011-02-18T04:25:00.000-08:00

Scarf; Al-Mujalbaba, Black Sleeveless Top;
H&M, Polka Dot Cardigan;Target, Jeans; Gap

Necklace; Target, Shoes; TJ Maxx

Happy Friday!

-delish- (chicken tortilla soup)

2011-02-17T21:45:00.000-08:00

I made this the other night and it came out so delish!

(I had to grab this bowl from my youngest, since everyone else had already begun devouring it.)

The kids gobbled this stuff up.

Trust me.

{via-A Farmgirl's Dabbles}

Vanity

2011-02-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

My most favorite body cream ever. You will love this stuff.

It smells A-muh-zing!

Go buy it and thank me later.

Read more about {LUSH} companies policy.

I have no affiliation with {LUSH} although I would love to have one.

M is for Modesty

2011-02-15T22:13:00.000-08:00

As a Muslim woman I choose to adhere to a modest dress code. Besides the obvious fact that I wear hijab, the traditional head scarf worn by some Muslim women. I also always wear long, loose clothing and the only part of my body that shows are my face, hands and feet.

So when I read that the maxi skirt was making a comeback, you better believe I was excited.

There are trends I jump on (some I never jump off)

and there are some that I can't wait to finish.

(to each their own)

Although I don't really wear skirts,

I like to have my options open.

1-2-3

Don't forget about the giveaway
{Winner will be picked February, Thursday 17th 9pm pst}

vela

2011-02-15T11:13:00.000-08:00

I love these fashionable scarves. I get compliments whenever I wear one, by people who don't even wear them in the traditional way!


1-2-3-4

Yay! for great style

Don't forget about the giveaway
{Winner will be picked February, Thursday 17th 9pm pst}

sidebar

2011-02-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

New to the sidebar

Click it - Check it.

Material love

2011-02-14T10:12:00.000-08:00

Things I'm {loving} right now.

GAP wide leg trouser

TB Tunic


Flora By GUCCI

Zeena


Jcrew

What's been on your radar recently?

Don't forget about the giveaway
{Winner will be picked February, Thursday 17th 9pm pst}

Savon De Marseille Giveaway

2011-02-12T12:33:00.000-08:00

One of my very favorite products is this Savon liquid soap. Made in France, so you know it's good! Made from coconut oil, free of artificial color and free of animal fats.

I've been buying it for about a year now and love the smell. It comes in several fragrances my favorite is "almond"and"orange."

Gwyneth Paltrow blogged about it a little while back.

You can check it out here as well as here.

Now that you know how great it is you have a chance to win your very own bottle

(33.8oz, Almond scent, you'll love it!)

For a chance to win leave a comment on this post with the name of your favorite soap.

Do you want to double your luck? Follow the blog and let me know in the comment section!

{Winner will be picked February, Thursday 17th 9pm pst}

Hijabified

2011-02-11T05:01:00.000-08:00

Scarf; Al Mujalbaba, Black long sleeve shirt; Gap, Button down; H&M, Denim trousers; Gap, Shoes; Micheal Kors.

Right to Left: Banana Republic, Target, Forever 21


A little animal print is good for the soul

Happy Friday!

{Check back tomorrow for a free giveaway of one of my most favorite products}

trading spaces: after

2011-02-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

-Guest Room-

Check out the before pics here.

trading spaces: Before

2011-02-09T04:50:00.000-08:00

When we first moved in to our house the guest room looked like this

I was going to have it be my son's room and then changed my mind.

Come back tomorrow to see what

this bubblicious room looks like now.

Honoring my daughter

2011-02-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

When I first started this blog it was meant as a way to keep in touch with all our family that lives far away. It's slowly turned from our blog to my blog. I talk about silly things like shopping and decorating and sometimes important things like nutrition and religion.

But today I wanted to take a moment to mark this day, if only for a moment, with something very special to me.

My daughter.

Growing up is hard to do.
Our bodies begin to ache as our arms and legs grow. Our teeth fall out and new ones grow. But more than the physical growth our children go through, there is also emotional growth. That even as adults we have a hard time navigating.
My girl has always been a fighter, she is brave beyond her age and sometimes more outspoken than needed. She is empathetic and immensely sincere.
This week she stood up to something scary, something I couldn't have done at her age.
And I didn't.

"...there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." (Winnie the Pooh)

Hijabified

2011-02-04T12:09:00.000-08:00

Scarf: Vela, Turtle neck: Old navy, Top: Calvin Klein via TJ Maxx, Pants: Gap, Shoes: TJ Maxx

Happy Friday!

gluten free

2011-02-03T04:40:00.000-08:00

Back in November I went on a detox. Not one of those celebrity, random detoxes. But a real one with the help of my wellness doctor/acupuncturist.
For three weeks I ate raw foods and absolutely no sugar (I have a caramel macchiato and chocolate chip cookie almost everyday) and protein shakes. The second week I added grains and cooked veggies. The final week I was allowed to add fish if I wanted.
The first three days were tough. I had a massive pounding headache (probably because of my lack of coffee.) The first day my headache was so bad I went to bed at 6pm hoping that it would go away when I woke up. Wrong.
I woke up the next morning with still a pounding headache.
On the third day it began to slowly go away.

You see I am constantly tired. I wake up in the morning and literally have to drag myself out and when I do get up I can't wait to get back in.
Sometimes I would drop the kids off and come back home only to literaly get back into bed.
And sleep all day.
This was not normal and I realized I needed to do something quick or I would miss out on life.

Which is why I decided to do something about it. I must admit that paying for the detox definitely motivated me to keep on going. My wellness doc. provided the protein powder and the vitamins.

On the fourth day I woke up, by myself, before my alarm clock.
I cried.
No really I did.
I couldn't believe how rejuvenated I felt.
Do I sound like an infomercial?

Well my detox ended a few days before Thanksgiving.
I was very Thankful.

After a few days of eating "normally" again I quickly realized I didn't feel good. At all.
I started thinking I was gluten intolerant. The more I read about gluten intolerance the quickly I realized they were talking about me. And I was pretty sure my mom and sisters are as well.

I am seeing an amazing Naturopathic doctor who specializes in gluten intolerance. And am getting properly tested. So we shall know for sure very soon.

I met the above mentioned doctor when the other day my friend and I went to hear this sweet woman speak.
She is amazing. And should be awarded the noble peace prize.
You can purchase her books right here.

Another great gluten free blog is a local couple that have really yummy recipes, even though they don't sound like it.

Do any of you have any experience with being gluten free?

Style and scarves

2011-02-02T21:47:00.000-08:00

My little cousin is absolute cuteness.

Check out her blog and her amazing sense of style.

check her out here

Hijabified

2011-02-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

Halogen Boyfriend Cardigan:Nordstrom, Grey long sleeve shirt:NT-I, Gap Jeans: many moons ago, Zigi la flats: Nordstrom Rack, Floral scarf: Al-Mujalbaba, Necklace: Anthropologie

Blushing

2011-01-31T20:15:00.000-08:00

My lil' sister is really sweet. She thinks I'm her inspiration.

Little does she know she is mine ;)

Cook extraordinaire

Baker

sew creative

Party planner

Furbish

2011-01-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

I love her blog and her shop is irresistable.

I don't know if it's the gloomy weather but I am itching to redecorate.

Not practical right now. So I did the next best thing.

Accessorize!

Spotted


I'm really into orange and turquoise. They sold out of the one I purchased but check out the others available.

for toothbrushes!

to frame my new years resolutions. Hopefully it will keep me motivated.

The city flat

2011-01-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

Speaking of shoes...

Have you guys picked these up yet?

Super comfortable.

I have these two

and picked up these chic Chanel wannabes as well.

A cheap alternative to these guys.

problem

2011-01-14T05:38:00.000-08:00

I have a slight problem. Nothing major.
It involves buying an insane amount of shoes.
Not sure why, since all I can wear around these parts are these!
(I hate the rain!!!)

I find a lot of my shoes at TJ Maxx, they carry a great selection and a lot of times you can find name brands for the fraction of the price. Plus that way I can splurge on my other problem ;)

Besides PiperLime and Zappos I found this site awhile back and love the selection they have.

Here are my random picks, what do you think?

here


here

Looking forward to spring

2011-01-13T09:17:00.000-08:00

It's been gl-ooomy around this part of town.
It's been gray, gray,gray! I don't like it.

So when I got this catalog in the mail it made me smile big. I got right to work folding down corners :)

p.s. I realize a lot of these items are "gray," I tend to be a neutral kind of girl and plus I can always add some bold accessories!

here

Lovely

2010-12-23T07:59:00.000-08:00

I can't stop staring at this room. Pure love!

via: this awesome blog, and he's from San Francisco, which is my hometown! Be excited.

I'm going out of town for the week, be back in the new year!

Wishing you all PEACE, LOVE and a whole lot of HAPPINESS!

Zigzag

2010-12-14T20:51:00.000-08:00

I've been on the look out for accent plates to go with the vintage dinner plates I bought last year. I think these might possibly be the ones.

I came across these and fell in L.O.V.E!


And they have mugs as well.

Has it been that long

2010-12-10T00:19:00.000-08:00

I've been busy. I don't want to promise you anything but I might or might not update with everything that I have been busy with. Lots of fun stuff. Some serious.
Right now I'm a single mama while my husband conveniently travels to Brazil for work. I'm left alone at home to deal with ugly weather and sick children! But you don't hear me complaining.

I'll leave you with some pictures of my in-laws visit over the Thanksgiving holiday. And hopefully I'll be back before the New Year!

It's okay that I'm the only one that looks good in this picture, it's my blog.

Grandparents!

It dumped snow Thanksgiving and so my food for 20 turned into a feast for 8!

PlayRoom

2010-10-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

Kirsten from 6th Street Design School did a great post on playrooms. I was lucky to get featured among other great rooms. Make sure to check it out!

Here are a few more pics.

Sofa separates the play space from the tv space.

Ikea bookshelves. Cheap but they have stood the test of time.

Kids table from TJ Maxx. John Derian for Target tray.

Martha Stewart farmhouse table from Kmart. I had it cut in half and bolted to the wall to leave more room for the kids to play.


Gallery wall needs to be updated and organized better. Chalkboard wall, I had crown molding put all around it to make it look more old school.

Ballard

2010-10-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

I got the Ballard Design catalog in the mail yesterday and can't stop drooling over this beauty

I showed it to my husband and I was pleasantly surprised when he agreed that I needed this. Now to find the space. Ha!

I also noticed this daybed, which I like, and would be perfect for the guest room. Although reasonably priced, I'm wondering if I can find it for less somewhere else.

These chairs I absolutely love and need to have! I hate my dining room right now, it's so tiny. But I'm always putting together items that would go nicely in my "dream" dining room.

on a wing and a prayer: an american muslim learns to fly

2010-10-06T17:58:00.000-07:00

Our documentary is now available to watch online. This aired in 2007 on PBS with over 2 million views.

On a Wing and a Prayer: An American Muslim Learns to Fly follows Monem as he enrolls in an open-minded flying school, where he soon draws the attention of the FBI, which confirms his family’s fears.Monem is a portfolio manager, the son of a Pakistani commercial pilot. His wife Iman’s family is Palestinian and although initially dubious about the marriage, now accepts the cultural differences. With three young children, Iman’s prankish student days are behind her. She’s happy to find time to cultivate her inner domestic diva, wisecracking about her entertaining skills and her husband’s flight plans. Monem’s “green” decision to commute by scooter only heightens his likeability. These modern-day Americans cast off stereotypes and refuse to succumb to victimhood despite being denied privileges afforded most other Americans. This gently funny film follows Monem as he works towards his goal, engaging his wife, family and community in the process.

Watch and enjoy!

On a Wing and a Prayer - An American Muslim Learns to Fly from Unity Productions Foundation on Vimeo.

Welcome!

2010-10-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

For all of you coming over from from HijabiTopia, Salaams!

This blog isn't really dedicated to religion specifically, it's just a mish mash of whatever is on my mind.

I talk about decorating a lot because that's what I love, and am always attempting it!
Fashion, cause I love it!
Food, I'm going back to school to study nutrition.
My kiddos, cause they are my kiddos :)

So this past weekend I was in New York, for an interfaith dialouge.
I was promoting "On A Wing And A Prayer: An American Muslim Learns To Fly"

Thanks to everyone who came out to the events! It was great to meet each one of you.
Be sure to stay tuned for more info on "Faith Walks The Land"

Peace out.

Laundry room

2010-09-12T18:26:00.001-07:00

We just a got a new washer and dryer, yahoo!
This is my inspiration...

(source unknown)

2010-08-25T05:10:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to hide our toaster oven for some time, since I have very little counter space to begin with. The thing is we use it a few times through out the day, so putting it someplace that I would constantly be pulling it in and out of was not going to work.

So this was my solution. And lucky for me it fits perfectly.

I started off by drilling a hole on the underside of the cabinet. Or at least I tried until my battery died half way.

This is what I had an hour after I charged the battery.

I just pulled the cord through and now I have more counter space.

Perfect.

Toaster oven

2010-08-24T19:40:00.000-07:00

How I made this

become this!

it involved a little bit of this

Stay tuned....

Etsy

2010-08-22T13:27:00.000-07:00

Most of my art is from etsy. You gotta love affordable creativity!

here

(mine is blue) here

here

This one is from Red Shoes, a really cute online shop.

here

Other art like the pear painting, was done by a friend. The other painting is a quote by Ghandi that I wrote on a canvas one day.

The plates are random pieces I've collected over time from, Target, TJ maxx, Anthropolgie, Pier 1 and Tuesday Morning.

The "Always be Nice" I made with scrapbook stickers onto a piece of patterned paper.

The calendar I got at Paper Source. And the Welcome sign is from long, long ago.

Gallery

2010-08-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

BEFORE:

(when we moved in, 3 YEARS AGO)

DURING (11:00PM)


There was no rhyme or reason to the way I placed them. Martha would not agree that I did not follow her instructions

AFTER:

I've been wanting to do this since the day we moved in.

And it gone done in less than an hour at 11:48 pm!


I know! I HATE the light as well. I've wanted to get rid of it since we moved in.

Finally!

I like it. I might add more, not sure yet.

(First thing you see from the front door)

Inspired...

(image unknown)

Yes, Please.

2010-08-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

These would look cute in a playroom or laundry room.

(found here)

Ramadan

2010-08-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

We got back from our road trip a month ago, and its taken me this long to get back into the game!
(more pics. soon)


Our road trip van.

One of the main reasons it's taken so long is that Ramadan started a few weeks after we returned home. It's like preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas all rolled into one month.

Ramadan is an amazing month for Muslims, it's a time of renewal and spiritual reflection.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. We abstain from any drinking or eating during daylight hours an added emphasis is put on not gossiping, lying, and any sinful acts in general.

Purity of thought during this month is paramount.

For one month out of the whole year we try as much as possible to dedicate to the worship of God and hope that in return we come out of this month with a renewed spirit and a purified heart.

(Last years entry)

road trip 2010

2010-06-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

We are leaving Tuesday after the kiddos get out of school. I think I'm ready. I hope.
We will be staying in Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore, Chicago one night each, then Michigan one week, back to Chicago for three days and down to Dallas for 2 1/2 weeks!

Should be fun ;)

Total driving hours:

Joy. (sarcastic tone included)

LONNY

2010-06-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

The new issue of Lonny is out!

Go check it.
These are some of my favorite images:

I love the fact that this kitchen has no overhead cabinets.

If I had a small powder room I would totally paint it a glossy black. Delish.

And I love the orange and brown.

Fashionista #2

2010-06-08T22:40:00.000-07:00

shrimp Quesadillas

2010-06-07T17:54:00.000-07:00

I made these the other night. They were really good!!!

(picture via skinnytaste.com)

Although I didn't follow her recipe it was definitely inspirational.
I chopped up the shrimp and cooked it with some chopped onions and scallions, then added a couple of tablespoons of mango salsa. I used a Mexican blend of cheese and then added the shrimp and salsa to it and that was that. It was so good, I didn't have time to take a picture ;)
My kids have been asking me to make this ever since.

You should really check out Gina's blog she has great recipes and easy to follow instructions. Plus she has pictures. I love some good pictures!

vintage

2010-06-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

Ebay score. Vintage-never worn dress. I'm going to turn in into a top that hits right above the knee.

NEed

2010-06-02T23:10:00.000-07:00

I need a set of these.

Love.

Crewcuts

2010-06-02T05:10:00.000-07:00

I love, love these tiny clothes. So cute and excellent quality.
Plus I can justify paying $40 bucks for a t-shirt, cause technically two girls will get to wear it ;)
Daughter #1's summer outfit.

come home to mama

2010-06-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

My end of the school year reward, to myself!

Fashionista #1

2010-06-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

I don't consider myself an overly stylish person. I get InStyle, Vogue, and Lucky to inspire me but usually I stick with the same uniform, jeans, flats, button down or cardigan. My clothes match and I'm good with that.
But someone has been sneaking my magazines and apparently got bit by the fashionista bug. They usually put together their own outfits and they actually look good! (not biased statement)
I give you Daughter #1:

stay tuned for daughter #2

Farm eggs

2010-05-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

I recently started getting some fresh farm eggs. My neighbor has a friend who has a farm that has some chickens!

Cock a doodle doo!

Our family loves eggs. Loves.
So I headed over to this chick and got a great recipe for some scrambled eggs.

Go check her out and drool over all those yummy recipes she puts out.

She has amazing pictures that I can't use here. But trust me you wont be disappointed.

Happy Friday!

2010-05-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

The husband has been out of the country for work for the last two weeks. He finally gets back to the U.S. tomorrow and then home on Tuesday. Yay!

(source unknown)

Gwyneth design

2010-05-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

Do you all get GOOP, Gwyneth Paltrow's newsletter?
She recently took up residence in Nashville to film a movie. So I guess the logical thing would be to find a place you like, gut it and redecorate until you love it! I wonder how long a movie takes to film that it necessitates an entire remodel of a space? But when your Gwyneth I guess money is no object!

KITCHEN (stools are from overstock.com)

MASTER: love, love the bed! I've been looking at a bed similar to hers.

This one from WestElm

and this one from Overstock.com

Back to Gwyneth

Check out those plastic chairs, also from Overstock (they are currently out of stock). I have been looking at those for some time. Remember for my itty bitty dining room.

Master bath. (yes, Please!)

Kiddos room: (love the floor to ceiling window)

(interior designer Annette Joseph)

Be inspired

2010-05-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

I found this cute print on etsy and deemed it perfect for today!

Reminded me of this...

Because every now and then you need some inspiration.

calypso

2010-05-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

I'll take one of each, please!

Find it at Calypso

happy, happy, joy, joy

2010-05-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

When I'm feeling stressed or a little down I watch these two videos and they make me HAPPY!

And this always makes me smile

Hope you all had a great weekend.

morning smoothie

2010-05-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

For the past week I have been drinking a smoothie for breakfast as well as having a banana.
The smoothie has been great in helping me feel full longer. I've also started eating ~~better~~ less!
I found it in a Woman's Day magazine while I was waiting for my oil change.

Here is the recipe.
In blender whip:
1 cup of juice (any variety)
1/2 banana or 3/4 berries (I added both)
2 tbs whey powder (I use 1 scoop)
2 tbs ground flaxseed
1 tbs ground psyllium husk
1 tbs chia seeds (I use ground)
1 tbs wheat germ
600 mg fish oil (from supplement caspules, break open and add oil only)
3 ice cubes (optional)

This smoothie is suggested by Dr. Oz.
I'll share my afternoon smoothie with you next week.

Mercy to mankind

2010-05-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite lines in the Quran is when God says "And We have not sent you except as a mercy to mankind"

"Do not do evil to those who do evil to you, but deal with them with forgiveness and kindness." - The Prophet Muhammad

About Muhammad (God bless him and grant him peace)

Author "Amjad Tarsin"
Muhammad, considered by many to be the most influential human being to ever live, was born in the 6th century C.E. in Mecca, a city founded by the Prophet Abraham and his son Prophet Ishmael. His influence is still felt across the globe and appreciated by both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Over one billion people worldwide commit to the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings – most conforming to the spirit of his message, while others distort his teachings. Now is the time, more than ever, to properly comprehend this historical and religious figure in order to better understand one another in this global community.

Muhammad’s father died before his birth, and his mother Aminah was told by a voice from the heavens to give her son the then unknown name of Muhammad, ‘the praised one.’ Orphaned at a young age, his uncle raised him for most of his life. As a young man, Muhammad enjoyed an esteemed reputation, being known throughout the city as ‘the truthful and trustworthy.’
At the age of forty, during one of his spiritual seclusions in a cave on the outskirts of Mecca, the angel Gabriel gloriously manifested himself to Muhammad pronouncing revelation from God. Alarmed and shivering he fled to his wife, begging her to wrap him in a cloak. He feared for his sanity, concerned that a desert spirit might be pursuing him. More revelations soon followed and Muhammad came to the understanding that he was not only a prophet in a long line of prophets such as Noah, Abraham, and Moses, but that he was the last of them who was sent with a universal message. He continued to receive revelation through Gabriel for many years to come. These revelations came to be known as the Quran, the Muslim holy book.
For thirteen years he invited his clan in Mecca to worship the one God, to sit with slaves in spiritual solidarity, to respect women as soul-full equals and the source of human mercy, and to care for the widow, the orphan, the weak and the oppressed. At first people ridiculed and feared Muhammad’s message because it threatened the Meccans’ financial gains because pilgrims from all over Arabia came to visit the idols in Mecca, and, consequently, spend their wealth. The ridicule soon turned to oppression, and many of the Prophet Muhammad’s followers were tortured and killed. When asking God for assistance, the Prophet was ordered to patiently persevere the suffering. Several years later his entire clan was excommunicated causing many to starve to death, including his beloved wife Khadija and uncle Abu Talib. The Meccans’ ill treatment culminated in an unsuccessful assassination attempt on the Prophet Muhammad’s life, after which he was exiled from the city of his birth.

The Prophet then moved to Madina, where he established an unprecedented peace between the city’s two largest tribes who had been suffering from feudal wars for centuries. With the Prophet Muhammad as its leader, the city’s virtue was restored and the population began to prosper once again. He also secured the rights of the Jewish minority by granting them full citizenship and freedom to practice their religion without constraint.
The peace the Muslims enjoyed in Madina would not be long-lived. Even while exiled, the Meccans continued their attempts to undermine the Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet’s growing influence was a threat to their dominance in Arabia. After successfully establishing a stable community, God told the Prophet through revelation that he and his community could now defend themselves. In battle against the merciless and tyrannical, he was as courageous as a great lion; and with the weak and oppressed, he was as gentle as a shepherd.
After several large battles, the Muslims and the Meccans established a treaty, which was violated by the Meccans only two years later. The Prophet then gathered an army of ten thousand soldiers and marched upon Mecca, conquering it without bloodshed. After suffering twenty bitter years at the hands of the Meccans, in which he lost his wife, uncle, and several other companions, Muhammad was now in a position of complete control. The Meccans were at his mercy; and mercy they were given. The Prophet Muhammad told the Meccans that they were free and would suffer no harm. He said to them, “This is the day of mercy. This is the day that God will exalt the Quraysh (the primary tribe of Mecca).”

In twenty-three short years the Prophet Muhammad spread monotheism throughout the peninsula, unified warring tribes, taught the honor of women, and established that all people were equal in the sight of God. He elevated the low and lowered the arrogant that they might meet in that middle place known as brotherhood. He infused within people a love of learning unleashing a creative power that would lead to some of the most extraordinary scientific breakthroughs in human history.

The Prophet Muhammad’s entire life, up until his last breath, was spent in the liberation of others. He liberated people from misguidance, oppression, and greed. Even on his deathbed, his last words were, “Treat your women well, and do not oppress your servants...O God, my highest companion, O highest companion.” The world needs a deeper understanding of this man – his gentleness toward children, his love of animals, his concern for the weak and oppressed, and his sense of justice always tempered with mercy. He taught us that forbearance is greater than revenge; forgiveness more lofty than punishment; and compassion more effective than austerity. Above all, he taught us mercy. And in these difficult times, we are all in need of more mercy in the world. Celebrate Muhammad. Celebrate mercy.

Find his biography here.

FitSchool

2010-05-19T22:21:00.000-07:00

The other night at our PTA meeting we had a guest speaker.
She talked to us about nutrition and exercise. She told us in order to burn off 2 M&M's you had to do 20 push ups (slight exaggeration on my part) the point was, watch what you eat. Nourish your body!
I guess I wont be having any of these new guys.

It's cool.
I'm on a get fit kick.
I recently picked these books up in hopes to motivate me.

What do you do to keep yourself healthy and in shape?

Aww shucks

2010-05-19T21:59:00.000-07:00

You like me, you really like me!

THANK YOU to all of those who have visited or commented on my post over at CLOVER LANE.

Faith walks the land

2010-05-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

We are working on a new documentary.

About a Muslim woman (Me!) who travels to different cities to interact with people who might have never met a Muslim before.

When our first documentary "On A Wing And A Prayer" was released I quickly realized the west needed to see more positive images of Muslims. Especially Muslim women!
While filming "On A Wing And A Prayer", I didn’t think anyone would care about our Muslim family. We’re American, we watch football, eat pizza, we argue about money and worry about our children, just like everyone else. I think we are pretty boring. But apparently no one else did. The overwhelming reaction of the community was so profound. That it got me thinking of doing something that portrayed Muslim women in a positive light. I loved the reaction people got after realizing our family was just like theirs. And why shouldn’t we be!
I am outgoing, friendly and sarcastic and thought it would be a great idea to go out and show the west that I’m a Muslim and an American. My hope in making this film is to show the world being an American Muslim is not an oxymoron.

Faith Walks The Land is about me going across the country into little towns that might never come across a Muslim unless what they see on tv. And we all know that is the farthest thing from the truth about what it is to be a Muslim.
So for those who have come to visit over from CLOVER LANE (thank you by the way) and think you might be interested in this project, email me!
Our first documentary "On A Wing And A Prayer" was featured on PBS with over 2 million viewers. I am really excited about this new adventure. I believe it will be a great way of building tolerance for all.
Peace :)

Clover lane

2010-05-19T05:02:00.000-07:00

This amazing woman decided to help make the world a better place.

What better way than through some interfaith dialogue.
She features mothers of different faiths to share their thoughts on their beliefs.
I love the fact that it's all about mothers, since we all can agree that our children are our first priority.
It also helps bring about some much needed understanding and tolerance of other faiths.
Bravo, Sarah!

Lifestyle change

2010-05-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

It's been four years since my daughter was born. I've been tying to get back into shape for that many years!
Crazy.
I kept making excuses, but honestly I have no willpower. None.
I keep putting it off or I work-out and eat right for a few days and then Mr.Chocolate comes knocking on my door. It would be rude not to answer.
But today is the day. TODAY!
Diabetes runs in my family and sooner or later it's going to catch up to me.
My goal is to slowly eliminate the amount of processed food in our home, start cooking more whole grains, and possibly try a gluten free diet (for myself).
Awesome.

This little life of mine

2010-05-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

My little sister has the cutest blog. She just documented her daughter's first birthday.
It's the cutest monster ball!

Go here to see more cutie patootie pictures!

New room

2010-04-26T21:54:00.000-07:00

Still not done with the girls room.
But the reason I'm dragging my feet is because I'm considering moving Serene into her own room. She's been asking for a year now and I think she's ready. This is what I'm thinking of right now. Keeping her current bed and the comforter in the corner is my inspiration.

Prayer

2010-04-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

Prayer is an important part of my life. Very important.

In Islam our way of praying looks a lot different than what you might normally see.

Yet our prayers are all the same, we pray for health, family, forgiveness, the less fortunate, to end suffering, for comfort and sometimes for a new pair of shoes.

Islam is based on five pillars. Right after believing in the oneness of God it's an obligation to make 5 daily prayers.
Seriously!

I pray five times a day. Don't worry it's not that big of a deal taking less than 10 minutes out of your day to be thankful for life.

Sometimes I rush through them and I get a little cocky with life and forget to remind myself of what really matters. That's when God reaches down and gives me a little dose of "Oh, no she didn't!"
And I am reminded of my place in this world. And the greatness of God.

This last week has been "one of those weeks" if something could have gone wrong, it did.
At the end of the week I have to remind myself that He does not burden me with more than I can bear.

Not done yet

2010-04-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

I know you are waiting patiently for the girls finished room. Not done yet.
I had a few things that I got busy with.

In-laws came for a week long visit
Visit coincided with the week before finals
Packed for Spain the week of finals
Went to Spain
Returned the second week of the quarter
Busy catching up with homework and one missed test
Procrastination
Lazy
Tired
Husband out of town!

( Pictures from Spain)

Loved all the shoes in this store!

These shoes made it through Roman lost cities, Alhambra gardens, and lots of city walking. Not a single scratch and super comfortable. But for that price, they better be!

Pioneer Woman

2010-04-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

I met her! you surely know who I'm talking about, right?
How can you not! She is an amazing cook (among other things).

Today she is giving away three of the puppies, go check it out.

Andulicia

2010-04-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

Spain

2010-04-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

We are on our way to Spain!
Sorry for the lack of posts, will update you all soon.

My g town

2010-03-26T16:35:00.001-07:00

sneak peak #3

2010-03-12T03:12:00.000-08:00

I promise complete bedroom pictures by Saturday. Until then check out this transformation!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Still needs to be styled. Do you see the print with the bird that says dream? Imagine it hung up a little higher and that little mirror? Yup! Also hung up.
I don't really like how the wallpaper came out, but it's cool for now.

Stella Bella, so cute!

2010-03-10T05:11:00.000-08:00

I'll take one of each, please!

sneak peak #2

2010-03-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a little snapshot of what I have so far. The armoire in the picture is coming out and don't mind the pile of clothes on the bed. Unless of course you didn't notice ;)

sneak peak #1

2010-03-06T05:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a little something I had reupholstered for the girls room.

I still need to add another coat of glossy black paint to the chair.

What do you think?

Before and After

2010-03-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

Before

After

Shade

2010-03-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of Shade? They have some cute simple pieces on-line. Ordering on-line is always tricky when you can't feel or see the quality. I've heard so many good things about them, that I went ahead and ordered a few items.
Scarf.

Cardigan in Oatmeal

Purple Top (not sure about the bow)

Oh! and hurry these pieces and many more are all on sale.