Inspired Muslimah

Eid Mubark Everyone

2009-11-28T23:09:00.003-05:00

Eid Mubarak sisters. I know I havent posted anything in like forever. Totally overwhelmed with school. I havent had much time for blogging. Im totally looking forward to winter break in 2 weeks to have to reorganize my blog and just catch up in general. I love reading everyones blogs and the good news is, since I havent been reading lately, I have so much to look forward too. I just need some time to catch up and get my life in order, I swear, I dont even have time to keep dentist appts, ect. I hope and pray everyone had a wonderful Eid, inshallah, we will all continue to all increase our deen, alhamdullilah!

I have missed you all!

2009-10-11T20:54:00.002-04:00

Salaams everyone, sorry I havent posted in forever! I wanted to concentrate on school and It worked bc I rocked my course!!! But I will be back posting tonight or tomorrow,insha'allah

Ramadan Update

2009-09-02T12:46:00.003-04:00

Salaams everyone, I hope you are all having a wonderful ramadan insha'allah! Im having a good one. I have been very busy with school, so I havent been blogging lately. I will be back blogging more regularly after ramadan is over. As of now my days are really pretty busy. It starts with sahor and fajr first thing in the morning.Then I go to school for most of the day, come home study for a bit, cook iftar, then study some more and Im off to bed. Not exciting what so ever. I havent even been to any iftar's this whole ramadan! Its ok I guess. There really isnt the time. I pretty much just have time to pray,eat,and go to school. LOL. Salaams

xoxo

Inspired Muslimah

Ramadan Mubarak!!!!

2009-08-21T21:38:00.002-04:00

Salaams everyone and blessed Ramadan.it's finally here,alhamdullilah! Tomorrow will be my first day of fasting and I think I will wake up for fajr and make waffles and fruit with orange juice. I hate to admit it but I will probably go back to sleep since it's saturday.However, I will make my prayer and read Quran first. I hope everyone has a great first day fasting!!!

Vacation and apartment idea's.

2009-08-09T18:09:00.012-04:00

Salaams sisters, I have been blogging so sporadically lately. I dont have that much to blog about but I wanted to update you on whats been going on. Im in the process of doing somethings to my apartment. I have been in it for 2 weeks and Im getting it painted and the carpets clean. Right now, its earth tones, but I want to change it. Im thinking of getting dupioni silk drapes for the living room and my bedroom. I want to put some cool shelves up and add some plants and pictures. I am getting a new bedroom bedding collection. Below are some ideas. Im getting this shelve from crate and barrel.

I am getting this new mac desktop next week. I have a macbook but I get tired of being on a laptop all the time so I cant wait!

I love this brown set above and thats my bedroom furniture, so this is exactly how it would look.
This one is awesome too! I just love that gray.
I like this black and white set a lot.
I really really really love this purple set and I definitely considering this one. So first my management company will come in and paint and clean the carpets. Then my dad will put my shelves and curtains up. My mom,sis, and I will hit up bed bath beyond,crate and barrel and target next weekend. Like I mentioned,I want to buy some plants,I shelves,art work, new bedding, new bathroom stuff, and a few things for my office. I have been in my place for 2 years and Im ready for a change.

Bahama's trip update.......

The sushi above is from my recent trip to the bahama's. There was a sushi bar on boat. yummy. I went to the bahama's last week and as we were sailing, I was looking at all the water and thinking Allah is awesome! I mean, we marvel at space shuttles and things that man has made that true were ingenious, but more INGENIOUS is all that Allah has provided us with.NATURE. things like the ocean and stars and sky,alhamdullilah! So yes, I had a wonderful time on my cruise other than my sunburnt face. LOL. The bahama's was nice too. We took tours, went to atlantis,saw the big aquarium, did some shopping, a whole lot of eating and just had a good girls weekend away. Alhamdullilah. We got henna in the bahama's at this cool little henna shop. We had a blast! Now Im back and vacation is over and its time to get back on track. I really needed to get away because now that Im back, I feel so rejuvenated and ready to work hard at school insha'allah. Here are a few pics.

This was my yummy breakfast of waffles,fruit, hash brown, and chicken sausage.
This is when the cruise left miami and we were pulling out of the port.
More pictures of miami

Lastly....

Its so hot here to day, maybe 92 degrees. This has been the coolest (temperature) summer that I can remember. Summer is winding down for and its time to get ready to school and more importantly ramadan which is quickly approaching. I cant believe its almost mid august.Wow how time is flying. I hope everyones ramadan preparations are coming along nicely... I dont have much to report new. Just winding down.

Preparations for ramadan

2009-07-27T22:22:00.006-04:00

As salamu alaiykum sisters, ramadan is approaching with lightening speed! We are already in the month of shaban,alhamdullilah. I would like to start preparing myself for this wonderful spiritual cleansing we are blessed to participate in alhamdullilah. I have been muslim for a year and so when ramadan rolled around last year, I hadnt quite embraced all aspects of islam such as hijab and modesty. Since then I have come very far and I now observe hijab although I can admit this summer hasnt been easy. School starts for me in a few weeks and Im nervous how I will be received. There are a lot of muslimahs at my school but only one wears hijab. However, insha'allah I can overcome my fears and do whats right to please Allah (s.w.t). I will start preparing for ramadan by fasting twice weekly until it actually begins. This way I can feel how long an actual day of fasting is since ramadan falls in the summer months. Secondly, I will visit the muslim bookstore/all purpose store. I want to buy many things that remind me of islam and decorate the house. I have a den which I use as a office but I will put out my prayer rugs and turn it into a prayer room. I will research a masjid to attend for some of the taraweeh prayers and insha'allah get a friend to join me since I admit I dont feel all the way comfortable in the masjid, you can read about my last experience here. I know we are suppose to read the whole quran doing ramadan and I am looking for suggestions on how best to do this. Sisters, do you devise a plan, or do you just read a little every night in sequential order? Im not sure how to tackle this but this is why its important to start preparing for ramadan now. Get all your ducks in a row. My future SIL and I are planning an Eid sleepover at a hotel. We plan on getting a suite, and having a Eid celebration and halaqa all in 1. There will be quran reading,lots of good food, henna, and scarves and accessories for sale and to practice with. Im excited because I didnt quite get in the spirit last ramadan. I wasnt around any other muslims, I didnt wear my hijab all day (just when praying) and I didnt attend a single iftar! Hopefully, insha'allah this ramadan will be much different. I will start getting together recipes and ideas that I would like to try. I will also try them out in advance so that when ramadan is here, I dont spend all my time in the kitchen experimenting and can spend more time praying insha'allah. Other preparations include planning my very first iftar here at my apartment. I know a few sisters who I can invite and Im looking forward to doing this! I will have to plan very well for this ramadan, as it falls during a really tough block in school. However, school would not be possible without Allah and fasting and participating in ramadan is the least I can do but also is mandatory as it is one of the 5 pillars of islam. I plan to post actively during the month of ramadan to share my experience with others and document what an amazing spiritual revelation Im having. Im sooooo excited subhanallah!!

Ten things about me.

2009-07-19T16:38:00.009-04:00

I have the honor of being tagged by M.J. from A Muslim Wife, NeverEver, and Umm Travis, so here its goes.....TEN THINGS ABOUT INSPIRED MUSLIMAH!

After listing 10 things about yourself all true but unknown,link back to the person who tagged you (see above) and tag 10 people and let them know them know they have been tagged as well!

Here we go.

1. Iam very short.....4'11 to be exact.LOL

2.I just had my 1 year anniversary since my revert to Islam ( July 20,2009, alhamdullilah)

3. I have always loved school and school supplies, so much that Im working on my 3rd degree ( Doctorate of Pharmacy) and Im crazy about going back to school shopping at office max to get pens,planners, ect. Im soo type A personality.

4.I have obsessive compulsive disorder and I have to clean my apartment from top to bottom daily, and I must vacuum before I leave the house,no matter what. I have to come home to a vacuumed house. Its a must.

5. I want to have 4 children,insha'allah. I love kids and I cant wait to be a wife and mother. Its taking longer than I had anticipated.....sigh.

6. Im addicted to starbucks,a 5 pump vanilla,5 pump chai,soy no water chai to be exact.

7. I am a bookworm, I absolutely love to read,read,read!! When I was a little, I use to check out 20 books at a time,until My parents restricted me to 5 at a time.

8.My sister and I are born on the same day,4 years apart!! My dad took her to the mall to buy her shoes (at 4 she loved shoes!) to keep her busy since her party was cut short by the birth of her baby sis, Moi!

9. If I had time to go back to school for another degree,it would be in history since thats actually my favorite subject.

10. I am addicted to sweets: candy,cakes,you name it, although Im lucky because Im still a size 2.

I tag:

M.J. from a Muslim wife

Empress Anisa from thoughts of a barefoot empress

Umm Travis

Ange from Hegab Rehab

MamaMona

With a Saudi Accent

Lisa from a journey westward of tartary

Au Naturale

Muslimah to Muslimah

Pixie from Ilovehishma

Ammena's Adventures

Salaams,its been a while.

2009-07-18T21:48:00.003-04:00

Salaams everyone, Im sorry I havent posted anything new in a while. I have been sick and soo busy with work lately but I have missed blogging so much! Not much new going on in my world. In 2 weeks Im going on a cruise to the bahama's and Im soo excited for a vacation,alhamdullilah! I even looked up some masjids in the bahama's and hopefully I will get a chance to visit them. I have been to the bahama's already but I am excited to go back. The shopping and aquarium in Atlantis are awesome and there is a lot to do. It should be a good trip,nice and relaxing and exactly what I need. After this trip, I plan to start preparing for ramadan, which is not that far away, isnt that something!! I cant believe its almost that time of the year again and I plan on it being a better one that last year for me. I am improving my deen and insha'allah I will be a better muslimah this upcoming ramadan. I plan to do lots of studying and reading to get prepared and I plan on buying a really nice abaya for Eid. WOW, that sounds crazy to be talking about outfits for Eid already. Whew! Where did the year go??? Alhamdullilah, we survived another year.

Today is my birthday :)

2009-07-05T15:09:00.007-04:00

Salaams everyone, today is my bday. Im not doing much, just relaxing at my parents house. Ironically enough, its my sisters bday too. We were born on the same day 4 years apart, isnt that weird?? People always ask me does it bother me and I always say ofcourse not,for one, I dont know any other way and besides I love my sis to death, there is no one I'd rather share it with. So Im just chilling on the deck, listening the water from the fountain and thanking Allah (s.w.t) for blessing me with another year. Salaams. Here are some pics I just took. Im just sitting here, as you can see in the pics, and Im thanking Allah for all the blessings I have in my life. Its has been rough year for me ( only by my standards because everyone says Im spoiled, nothing major has happened) and Im starting to feel better about things and about life alhamdullilah.

A look at city sisters

2009-06-24T11:57:00.005-04:00

Salaams sisters, I just wanted to share a little about info with you all today about a show that comes on the islam channel called city sister. Unfortunately here in the states we dont have this channel, actually Im not sure what countries do but how lucky are those who can take advantage of the islam channel. The website has so much cool info, alhamdullilah! I have seen city sisters posted on a few other muslimah websites but I bet there is a lot of sisters who dont know about it. City sisters is a show that comes on the islam channel weekly and group of muslimahs sit around and discuss issues such as islam, women in islam, hijab,family,fashion, recipes,ramadan and more. The awesome thing is even if you dont have this channel, you can watch the vid's online at their website.

Here is a video called revert special that deals with issues concerning converting to islam,

for newbies like me :)) Part 1&2

Here is video about preparing for ramadan Part 1&2:

Here is a video about becoming a mom for the first time ( M.J.- This is for you :) Part 1&2

Alhamdullilah these ladies do a wonderful job masha'allah on educating us muslimah on many different topics. You can go to their website and find many more cool vid's on a variety of topics. I hope you all found these interesting and as useful as I.

Cute Pink Maxi dress for many occasions.

2009-06-21T21:40:00.002-04:00

be
cute day in the sun by Inspired Muslimah featuring JUICY COUTURE shoes

I think this dress is sooo cute for a nice summer occasion such as a wedding. With the matching magenta scarf and cami, you can be cute, comfortable and in hijab. I heart those juicy couture gladiator sandals...so much I think I have to find them! I love the dress too, sooo pretty and glam. I love pink!

Im Back

2009-06-18T14:37:00.003-04:00

Salaams all my sisters in islam. Im Back.LOL. I have taken a much needed break from life, blogging, work and everything else. Prior to my vacation, I had been working a lot of hours and finishing a rough semester in pharmacy school. Im earning my doctorate of pharmacy ( pharm.D) and I have to say I am quite sick of school. I did the traditional college thing and went right after highschool to get my bachelors and my masters. I am now finishing up the pharm.d and had plans to go to law school as well but enough is enough. Iam tired of school and Iam ready to begin the next phase of my life. Marriage and children,insha'allah. Its hard finding the right person for you, ya know? I think I may have found him but I also have many reservations, which is not a good sign to me. Anyhow, I have been extremley busy and I went to washington d.c for a week on vacation. I am in LOVE with that city and I will definitly be moving there after graduation. I think what attracts me the most is the diversity I see all around me. I have to say the best thing I see while there is Muslims everywhere!!! Alhamdullilah!!!!! I love it. I feel so comfortable there. When I am in the mall or something, particulary Tysons corner, I am amazed. Sisters everywhere!! I must have visited 7 muesuems and guess what else?? I was on my way to the holocust musuem the day of the shooting!!!! I was walking down the street towards it when all of sudden I start hearing all this commotion, cops everywhere, helicopters above. I find out there has been a shooting at the museum and I am speechless because I was on my way. All I can say is Allah Akbar. Wow, I felt terrible for the victim and blessed that Allah spared me from witnessing it. Even still I love D.C. Its so wonderful and when I feel my deen slipping it would help to have a nice muslim community to be a part of. I feel like an outcast here sometimes. Most of the sisters I see around town look very different from me...

Also sisters, do you ever go through bouts of depression and you wonder what you did to Allah to make him upset. I know this sounds silly but I have been having the roughest time lately. My parents blame themselves because they say by spoiling me when I was a child, I have a unrealstic view of life and to a certain extent this is true. I have never struggled financially,mentally, or emotionally and now I feel a mess all around. I was making such progress with my deen and trying to do the right thing with my hijab and prayers and I feel like my love actually got harder instead of easier, which is what I anticipated. I thought if i did right by Allah, Allah would do right by me. Now before you misunderstand me. I know everyday I wake up that Allah has done right by me and actually I can work all of my life being a good muslim and will never be able to repay Allah for all he has given me. Iam soo thankful and grateful for my life and I have a great one. I just feel as if I am having a lot of bad luck lately and Iam down about it. My future MIL has told me what I am going though is typical because she said Allah only test the Believer. Prior to reverting to Islam, life was good and easy. Since my conversation, I have gained so much knowlege alhamdullilah, but I also experience many hardships. I feel like shayton has made it his personal business to ruin my life and Iam like why me Allah??? I was really like starting to feel like things were going my way and now all of sudden my life is totally craZy, unorganized and I dont even know where to begin on damage control??!!!

Partially my blues come from the fact that my birthday is coming up and I think every year around my bday I start evaluating my life and I when I fall short of my goals, I am extremley hard on myself. I never thought I would still be not married and have no children. I know I have plenty of time ( Im not even 30 yet) but why do I feel like my clock is ticking?! Does anyone else have these concerns. Now that I am muslim, I feel like it will be harder to find a mate.Especially in the city Im in...Like I mentioned before, I guess I am engaged but I dont know if he is the one...

I know need to grow up and realize that everyone has it rough and its not personal. Allah loves me and this I know. I am not even close to where I need to be and honest I may have taken a few steps back. Make duas for me sisters because I have been to struggle with things I have never struggled with all my life. In my time of need when I should be running to Allah (s.w.t) I find myself running the opposite direction. Isnt this backwards??? Yes, I realize this.I am praying that I can get back on track, I am sure it wont be long. I mean dont worry, Iam not totally digressing.Like doing haraam things like drinking and stuff. I just have been slacking on my prayers ( NOT COOL) and other stuff.....well I think I have vented enough and I miss reading blogs and posting stuff, so Iam back!!!! I love you all for the sake of Allah :)

Teal and Yellow, soo cute together!

2009-05-24T22:06:00.003-04:00

I love these colors, they both are sooo brilliant and really pop for the summer. I particulary like yellow, although a lot of people steer clear of it. It works really well on me, so I wear it a lot. I think the yellow looks soo cool with this teal dress,which is awesome. I love one shoulder dresses!!

Yellow and Teal by Inspired Muslimah featuring Prada bags

What do you think?

Interesting tips to share with new muslims

2009-05-10T18:48:00.008-04:00

As salamu alaikum sisters, I found this article on the things you should support a new muslims on the sisters area of islam way.com

1. You should give the new Muslim the feeling that Islam is a perfect religion, its source is divine, and it is totally inclusive. You have to emphasize that there is no truth but the truth of this religion.

2. You should clarify to the new Muslim that Islam erases every sin before it. Otherwise, he will keep thinking about his previous sins. You should make it clear for him that the moment he converted to Islam, his records became clean, and if he was Christian in the past, he will receive twice the reward from Allah. ( alhamdullilhah!!!)

3. Assure him that the only reference for Islam is quraan and sunnah, not the wrongdoings of Muslims. Only Qur’an and Sunnah can define what is right and what is wrong. Ok this one I personally love because all though I love my new family in islam (meaning brothers and sisters I meet) I feel as if they can be very judgmental and this can turn off those learning about islam. I know a few people who are sooo freaking judgmental and all I hear is this is not what to do and so on. I mean, call me crazy but just because we are muslim doesnt mean we know everything and everyone else knows nothing. It doesnt give us the right to judge and be so critical of others. I often hear people talking about whats true hijab and such but I guess although I wear proper hijab meaning my full head,ears,neck and chest are covered, I dont judge those I see who arent in correct hijab because, for one, its not for me judge.Dont get me wrong, giving advice or steering sister in the right is not being judgmental, Im referring to when its more than that.

4. Advise the new Muslim to read Qur’an, Hadith and Serah as often as possible.

5. Advise him to take care of his personal cleanness in all its types, (Ablution, Ghusl…etc.)

6. He should perform prayers in time, and you should point out the importance of praying in Gama’ah.

7. It is very important that the new Muslim lives in an Islamic environment. This will help him to obey Allah, mainly by keeping him away from sins, and wrongdoings. I think this one is very important and for those who are lucky enough to live in a islamic country, you are soo lucky alhamdullilah!! I can go a whole week with out recognizing another muslim :(

8. Take the new Muslim to a nearby mosque. It is better to have someone from the neighborhood accompanying him and following his progress. Ok, I can totally atest to this, see my post on my first experience at the masjid.

9. Let the Imam of the mosque know about this new Muslim, and remind the Imam to take special care of him.

10. Advise him to read and learn more about Islam. It is better if he can dedicate some of his time to do that, whether by himself, or with a group. I wish I had a group to learn with.

11. It is very important for the new Muslim to ask about everything he doesn’t know or can’t understand. He should try to contact scholars or at least ask anyone he trusts. So true,

12. Try to know about his financial status, and help him as much as possible to make him feel friendlier. It will be more encouraging to have his salary raised a little, if you are in a position to make that possible. I dont get this one. LOL

13. You should make it clear to him, that his conversion to Islam would cause him some problems. Allah is testing his faith by these problems. He can always handle these problems by referring to Qur’an and Sunnah.

14. You should emphasize the importance of Monotheism and Islamic belief basics. You can provide him with a book that explains these important things in a simple way.

15. Try to keep him away from his previous atmosphere, and to involve him in an environment that suits, and helps his development as a Muslim.

16. Try to engage him in some Islamic activities, and provide him with important books and recorded lectures. Yes, yes, I agree. I had the best time when my future sil and I went to this lebanese restaurant and to an islamic bookstore/everything store. I purchased sooo many cool islamic item, prayer gowns, prayer rugs, books on the deen, and much more. I say this is high on the list of things we as muslims should do with newcomers.

17. Try introducing him to group from his nationality. The communication between them will be easier; he can also have lessons with them.

18. He should feel that he is important and loved by everyone, because of his conversion to Islam. Giving him a gift would be a good start…

19. Make it clear to him that the problems he faces have occurred to every new Muslim, so they are expected. Try to follow-up with his problems, and help him solving them, so that he can handle them without doing something terribly wrong.

20. There should be a simple approach that helps him to learn Arabic language (reading and writing), In order to be able to read quran by himself and understand it. ( Iam currently learning to speak and read arabic, soo neat!!)

I just wish all the he's werent there and were replaced with he/her and him or her.

Other than that I thought this were wonderful tips to offer a new muslim. But I want to know what tips would offer to a new muslim,lets try to build on this list because Islam is overwhelming. I would love to meet a new muslim (though I am new myself) to help make the transition easier for them and to offer them encouraging words of advice.

Salaams

To all my muslimah bookworms

2009-05-04T22:18:00.004-04:00

Salaams, I dont know if any of my readers are bookworms like myself, but I love to read!!!!! I am currently reading A Thousand Spendid Suns by Khaled Hossieni. It is amazing and I will finish it tonight or tomorrow. I just started it this afternoon! Its sooo good. I read The Kite Runner ( by the same author) over the weekend and it was the BEST BOOK I EVER READ!!! Alhamdullilah, this author is excellent! I am also reading From My Sisters Lips, by Na'Ima B Robert, which is pretty good too. I love to read and I am always looking for suggestions. If there are any other muslimah bookworms out there, tell me what your reading!! Share your summer reading list with me.

Follow up to how to wear square hijab,

2009-05-03T10:58:00.005-04:00

Salaams everyone and thanks for your comments and advice. Like many of you suggested I went to you tube first and I watch a couple videos. Now I realized what I had been doing wrong all along. The way you wear a square hijab:

1. Wear a cotton underscarf!! Everyone doesn't like to wear under-scarves but it makes wearing a square hijab (the silky kind) so much easier. You dont have to show the underscarf if you dont want to,you can cover it completely,but it makes the hijab not slip as much and stay secure.

2.Take the square hijab and fold it into a triangle. I will call each peak of triangle different letters, A and B.

3. Bring the hijab over your head and leave one side a little longer. Leave side A for example longer than side B.

4. Take the hijab and fold it in by your temples on both sides and then pin it underneath your chin with a safety pin. ( By folding it you will smooth it out so it lays to your head and face neatly)

5.Take the longer side B and wrap it around as far as it will go and pin it twice, one midway around and the back of your head and second pin it to where ever it ends when you wrap it around. Maybe near you collarbone.

6.Take the shorter side A and pin it to you shirt,this is great because it stays in place and looks nice.

Ta Da, your finished, However, I just re read this and it doesnt sound easy to do with out seeing pictures, so here is a video on you tube, made by another hijabi's, not me..

425

How in the heck do wear a square hijab??...and other stuff.LOL

2009-04-27T22:37:00.008-04:00

Salaams! Today I received a bunch of cool stuff in the mail,alhamdullilah! My order from starscarves arrived and they are officially my favorite place to order from! Its free shipping and its so fast,I ordered some scarves thursday evening and I received them this afternoon. I ordered 5 new hijabs! A yellow,red,turquoise, and grey pashmina and and a super cute navy,white,grey, and turquoise square hijab. I also order so colored push pens, they are so cute. Also, I received my Mastering Arabic book with 2 audio cd's. Alhadullilah! The book looks so cool and it teaches you everything and you use it with the cd's. The cool thing is it teaches you how to speak and write arabic,so I plan on getting through this book thoroughly and before ramadan begins in august..seems soon right?? So I really like the look of the pashmina scarf, they are both cute and stylish and functional and I have mastered the oblong shayla which is by far my favorite style but sometimes the scarfs I love only come in square and I cant wear this style right for some reason. I mean I can physically wear it but I dont really like how it looks on me. I have a few really cool scarves but they are square hijabs and 100% and I hate the way it lays around my face. First off, I am a little self conscious with hijab all together because I feel like I have a fat face( yes and I had'nt noticed till I wore hijab.. I suppose its been fat.LOL ) So on top of having a fat, face and being rather fair-skinned sometimes I feel like my face looks like a fat marshmallow. This may be a bit dramatic but thats why I like my scarf tied secure around my face. However,with these fancy shmancy polyester hijabs I end up looking ridiculus and I wanted to find a picture of a hijabi that looks like it,but ridiculing others isnt my style. So you just have to use your imagine. No matter how many pins I use I cant get the darn thing to lay right but I am a perfectionist so I will keep at it and let you know how it turns out. In the meantime, any tips are well appreciated!

My weekend

2009-04-26T21:54:00.003-04:00

Salaams everyone and I hope everyone had a good weekend.I had a very nice one masha'Allah.Friday I went to my parents and spent the night.yesterday I went to get a trim and deep condition and I got a manicure and pedicure with my mom.We later (myself ,parents, sister and godson) went to this shopping area that has a lot of restaurants and things to do.we went to the bookstore,got gelato,went to anne taylor loft and went to the cheesecake factory. Btw Anne Taylor loft has some super cute spring and summer items and it's both affordable and hijabi friendly for a lot of the items.it was a nice day. Today we cooked out because it was 85 and just enjoyed the weather.I was on another sisters blog and I learned of a channel called the islam channel,I am not sure who get it's,maybe London (lucky!!!) but anyhow they have a show called city sisters.the awesome thing is most of them are on you tube so if you don't get this network which I don't you can enjoy them on you tube.it's so awesome!! Sorry if there are many typos since i'm posting this via a text message on my iPhone.which is sooo near by the way! I had a good weekend and I hope you all did as well.I will post some episodes of city sisters and some cut stuff from Anne Taylor later.salaams :)

Summer is approaching and Im nervous...

2009-04-21T22:36:00.004-04:00

Salaams sisters. Summer is approaching and although I converted to islam last july and it was still hot then, I had yet to wear hijab properly. Now that I do wear my hijab everyday the right way, I am so nervous about the upcoming summer season. I love clothes soo much but I love Allah more so I know I will do the right thing insha'allah but Im still nervous and on top of that I feel like I no longer have a fabulous wardrobe! It has been relatively easy to convert my late winter/early spring wardrobe into a hijabi wardrobe but there is no hope for my summer wardrobe. I have so many cute tanks and capris and dresses and I dont know what to do about them. I can wear cute cardigans with some stuff and now the search is on. I have to buy every cute little sweater I can find. I feel like I seriously need a little a thousand to get on the right track and I plan on investing a lot into my new wardrobe. I dont think I should have to give up feeling cute and comfortable just because Iam wearing hijab. I plan on going to the gap or express and buying a lot of cute long sleeve cotton shirts, and 3/4 sleeve tops. I have also seen some super cute long dresses that will be perfect with a cute cardigan. At least Iam cool in the shoe department. LOL. But I need to buy a ton more scarves, accesories,and hijabs. I really like starscarves because they are cute and affordable and get this...I am actually in the process of buying a..drumroll..ABAYA!!! Alhamdullilah for how far I have come and I have all my sisters to thank for giving me inspiration and letting me know I can do it. Blogging has been the best thing ever for me and I so glad I stumbled upon beautiful muslimah a year ago because blogging has really made my conversion to islam a lot easier. Well thats all for now. :)

My first experience at Juma Prayer

2009-04-18T09:41:00.004-04:00

Salaams and juma mubarak! yesterday I went to juma for the very first time alhamdullilah! However, I didnt leave feeling rejuvenated like I had expected too. I wasnt that comfortable sitting in a crowded room on the floor listening to the imam through speakers(The tv wasnt on for some reason). I found it hard to concentrate when I couldnt see the speaker. Secondly, there were children and they were talking and crying and crawling around and I found the whole thing chaotic. I use to attend church regularly and I came to rely on that spiritual rejuvenation at the end of the week. I want the same thing with islam except I didn't find it at juma at this particular masjid. Another thing was the vibe was not as friendly as I had hoped or expected. I asked this one sister where the sisters go to pray and she looked at me frustrated and said "what do you mean?" which obvious she knew what I meant. I said "can you show me where the sisters pray" and she says who sent you? I am like "no one sent me" and I walked away and found it myself. When it came time to pray I was praying and someone's toddler was LITERALLY playing with my toes which was distracting and I looked around like is someone going to get their child?? Then after the prayer this sister comes up to me and says "I noticed you looking around during the prayer and your not suppose to. Your suppose to look at the spot on the floor where you place your head." Im like" ok, Im a new muslim and I new to the masjid, thanks". She is like" oh Iam so happy for you alhamdullilah!!" and hugs me and turned out to be a nice sister but still Iam iffy on my whole experience.

Another thing I felt out of place maybe a bit is I felt too glamourous and I was just being myself but compared to all the other sisters in there I looked like I was going for a photo shoot and they looked like they were running errands. Everyone literally had on all types of stuff, scarves that didn't match ect. This is fine, Iam not judging them. Im saying because I was so different and all dressed up with bracelets, and 2 scarves wrapped in a new style I learned and my trench coat with 3/4 sleeves, and so fourth, I felt not overdressed but I definitely stood out. I guess because I blog so much and Im not around sisters very often, I had thought I was going to see a bunch of hijab fashionistas ( like the ones I see on my my muslimah blogs) and I didn't. I was the only one, so I felt awkward. I expected to see women looking all the polyvore sets we all create on our blogs. That was naive I suppose. I dont mean literally that glamorous but more than what I saw. It leads me to another point. Just because you have to wear a scarf doesnt mean you dont have to care about what you look like. I still take a lot of time coordinating my outfits and scarves and accessories everyday so that I feel pretty and confident when I go out and I think a lot of sisters who maybe have a lot going on like families and such give up on this . Lastly, I just thought of why the lady asked me who sent me. Maybe I looked like I had a scarf on but that I was doing journalist or someone there to observe for like a school project or something. I totally think thats what she thought!!!! LIGHTBULB!!!! ( remember how I said i stood out like a sore thumb)..HAHA THAT IS FUNNY! I will not give up on juma, I will just try another masjid next friday. :) salaams

2009-04-17T21:03:00.000-04:00

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Things I have noticed since becoming a hijabi part 1

2009-04-16T11:03:00.007-04:00

Since putting on my hijab a month or so ago, I have noticed such a difference in my life, the way I feel, the way I walk and carry myself, and the others treat me. I want to talk about all of my experiences on my blog and I have tons to share with you guys in my little month as a hijabi which by the alhamdullilah! I am feeling so comfortable and confident! The first part of my post will start with the sudden interest in my nationality.

Part 1: What I have noticed since wearing a hijab, regarding race and ethnicity

Salaams. Did you all notice when you started to wear hijab that people took more of an interest in you? Maybe its me but I am bombared with all kinda questions regarding my religion, race, and ethnicity. The funny thing it normally starts with someone asking me what country Im from and then I say guess. DO you know what the most responses are...drumroll please.....PALESTINIAN! LOL. this is followed by indian or just arabic. LoL. People are soo interested in my country. where you are from, when did you come to america. Keep in mind I do not have a accent of any sort. The funny thing is Iam black,irish, and native. No one ever guesses that.My mom is black and irish and looks more irish with her red hair and face full of freckles.I have some too and sandy brown hair. Before I wore hijab people always ask my sis and I are we mixed and usually they think spanish. Now with my hijab everyone thinks I middle eastern. My skin complexion looks like this muslimah, maybe a little lighter.

Ok the part that is annoying about the whole things is and maybe this is a stretch but people are utterly shocked when I tell them Iam black and irish. You can almost hear then wanting to say you dont act or talk black. Example, I helped this older couple the other day at the pharmacy and they were very sweet.

Customer: "honey are you are so sweet, we have been coming here for over 20 years and no one has ever went out of there way to help me and my wife like this."

Me: "its my pleasure, anytime".

Customer: "honey what country are you from?"

Me:" America,sir." (keep in mind I know what he's getting at)

Customer's wife: " No sweety he means originally?"

Me: " I was born and raised here, as well as my parents"

Them: "Well you are absolutely beautiful, soo pretty and so is your scarf."

Me: "Thanks thats so nice."

Them: "Whats your nationality or ethnicity?"

Me: "Im black and irish"

Them: (Utterly surprised) " Really I would have never guessed!! Well your still beautiful"

Me: Thanks?

My point is they were very sweet people and I appreciated the comments, I just feel like people are so surprised at what I really am and I wonder does it go beyond the skin complexion because black people can be light skinned too. LOL. I think its a combination of my features and mannerisms. I have always been called white girl by other black people due to the way I talk and my features. ( I have always hated this because what these ignorant people were saying in essence, is because I am polite and courteous and speak properly,I am white?) My point isnt to get into a racial debate here. My family is extremely mixed, I have many white aunts and uncles and first cousins that look completely caucasian.

My point is normally some one is asking me where Iam from and telling me how pretty I am, and let me tell you now that I wear hijab the compliments roll in daily!!! Its soo crazy to me! I think I get more attention now and the complements are just wonderful ( I know, so vain) Seriously people are like you are soo pretty! Iam like thanks, a couple people told me I look like a princess or goddess. Yes really. LOL. My point isnt to brag about how good looking I am. The point is that I have noticed more compliments now than before and that everyone thinks I am middle eastern and when I say black and irish, its kinda like well your still really pretty. Its like if your really pretty you have to have some exotic background or story...I just think its interesting. Indian people always ask me am I indian or arabic. White people dont guess as much they just say where are you from and black people always say what are you mixed with?? They are all shocked at my answers and for different reason I suspect but I just want to know exactly the logic behind it. My new indian coworker, I asked her why she thought I was arabic and she said I dont know, you look and act arabian so. hmmm.....I dont know what that means...but I wanna get to the bottom of it. LOL

Off to spring shop and your sooo pretty in pink

2009-04-14T11:31:00.003-04:00

I will be going shopping this weekend and I plan to wear a outfit very similar to this one. I absolutely love the way she wears that hijab and I want to try to see if I can pull it off. I have to first figure out how many scarves she is wearing.

Day at the mall by Inspired Muslimah featuring Lanvin bracelets

Isnt that top so amazing and perfect for a hijabi. I mean its sooo stylish and yet still loose and long enough to cover you waist and butt properly in jeans. I would totally wear everything above. I absolutely adore pink and anything girly like that scarf and top. SOOO cute to me!!! I could even wear this outfit to juma this friday, I would just add my trench coat and I would be all set!

Hijabi for almost a month!

2009-04-04T20:43:00.006-04:00

As salaamu alaiykum sisters, today I had a nice day alhamdullilah. I went out to the cheesecake factory and shopping with my parents and sister, my first outing as a hijabi with my family, alhamdullilah! It went really well, my family is super supportive and things are going really well. I have been my hijab for almost 1 month and I am soo happy and proud of myself. Like I said before, I had worn hijab previously before but never full time every day all day. I have been wearing it full time and I have not left the house without it. My coworkers,classmates,and family have all been great about it. Yesterday I wore my favorite scarf,which is a rich blend of reds,oranges,green, and gold. Its a very beautiful scarf,masha'allah. I received so many compliments on it and Im feeling much more confident in my hijab these days. I just pray to Allah that it last. I hope I have crossed that hump for the last time. Im wearing hijab and praying regularly and increasing my deen insha'allah. I currently reading great women of islam and its soo amazing, I cant wait to finish and do a post about it. Thats all for now, salaams, but keep me in your duas sisters, so that I may be as strong as you!

My order from Starscarves arrived!!

2009-03-29T23:10:00.004-04:00

Salaams everyone, I am soo excited! My order from star scarves arrived and I love my new hijabs. I ordered then sunday night( last week) and they arrived on thursday (though I just opened the package today), which is pretty fast for free shipping. Take a look below:

My recent order - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

The only thing not pictured is the pink ribbon hijab pin, which is actually my favorite item. Its gorgeous,put for some reason it wouldnt clip to polyvore so oh well. Iam very happy with my purchase for the most part. I ordered 9 items total and my price was $101.91, not bad at all. I am finally learning the names of all the different styles, for example, the light pink hijab is a kuwaiti/mona hijab. My friend from Palestine just brought me back 4 scarves too, a pretty flowered green hijab,a orange and white silk hijab, a turqouise hijab and a magenta hijab, so all in all this week I got 9 new hijabs!!!!!!!!! Alhamdullilah!

My Muslimah Goody Bag

2009-03-26T20:41:00.005-04:00

Salaams ladies. Today I had such an amazing day. I hung out with my future sil and we had a blast. We went to this islamic bookstore,halal grocery store and a lebanese restuarant. Although I didnt order it i finally saw the dish Schwarma that everyone talks about. I ordered chicken and rice with salad and french fries and it was sooo yummy. I purchased some wonderful books masha'allah and I hope to share what I learn with you all insha'allah.

Islamic Verdicts on the pillars of islam vol 1 and vol 2.Vol 1: creed and prayer and vol.2: prayer,zakat,fasting,

and hajj

Great Women in Islam by Mahmood Ahmad Ghadanfar

Islamic Fatawa regarding Women compiled by Muhammad bin Abdul-Aziz

I also purchased a prayer rug, straight pins for my hijab,kohl, a miswack, and a little book i can keep in my purse called daily and occasional du'a.

In addition, I purchased some gyro meat,rice,seasonings, and a few other items from halal grocery store.

Overall It was a wonderful day Masha'allah!! I also recently purchased several new hijabs and 2 hijab pins, which I am anxiously waiting to arrive any day and Insha'allah I will post pics of those items as well. Its so different hanging out with muslimah's versus my other friends. My future SIL wears abaya and niqab so being around her really makes me conscious of my appearance and actions and I love this. She makes me adore hijab and all the girly things a muslimah can veg out on.I could have spent a million dollars in the bookstore!! I mean they had everything!!!!!! Books and books and books, videos, cd's,hijabs,abayas, paintings, and more. Everything islamic!! A girls dream!! I bought the hijab pins,kohl and miswak stick from there also. I am sooo pumped about the little dua book I bought for my purse, how perfect! I cant wait to read and share will you all everything I learn and on that note.. Iam off to read so I will write more later!! Salaams!

Hijabi in the pharmacy day 2

2009-03-25T08:31:00.004-04:00

So I wore hijab to the pharmacy today, this was a different site than yesterday. I got a few compliments on how pretty I looked and I wondered did they think I was just making a fashion statement?? Eventually someone said to me " are you muslim?" and I said yes even though I think its inappropriate to ask me this. He then replied, I would have never know. This was such a wake up call to me and it made me feel horrible. I dont know exactly what he meant by it and he didnt say it mean or anything but still, he was surprised that I was a muslim. This made me think a lot about my behavior and how I carry myself. Am I carrying myself like a muslimah even when I do not wear hijab? Perhaps thats the significance of wearing hijab because it makes you be in remembrance of Allah (s.w.t.) at all times. When I am in hijab I do carry myself in a different manner, I watch my words,what I watch on tv,or what music I listen, I watch myself to avoid backbitting and participating in useless gossip and more. I am seriously having a rude awakening this week. I can admit that when I am in hijab I am a overall better person. Alhamdullilah the light bulb has finally turned on!!! However sisters, this doesnt mean I dont miss my hair sometimes. I think the key to being a successful hijabi is having confidence. Something I didnt have before when I wore hijab and it was like a hardship on me. But this week I have woken up excited about wearing hijab and I even ordered $100 worth of scarves and pins and undercaps from a store called star scarves?? I will post more about that later. I feel so different this week.Proud to be muslim,proud to have on my scarf. This is the firs time I have felt this. Make duas for me that this continues and I continue to wear hijab. Salaams

A day in the pharmacy..Hijabi first day!!!!

2009-03-23T21:11:00.003-04:00

A day in the pharmacy - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

This is pretty much what I wore to my internship at the pharmacy today...and I wore hijab too!!! Alhamdullilah today is the first day I ever wore it at my internship.My coworkers and patients were all nice, no smirks or comments or staring. I guess I assumed because I have a large jewish clientele that it may be problematic but everyone was pleasant. I made my intentions to wear it to work all week and when I woke up this morning I made my prayers and went to work. I am tired of being a coward. Alhamdullilah today was a nice day!!! Allah Akbar!! I hope tomorrow is just as nice. I am at a different site tomorrow so I will keep you guys posted with the details but today is the first day I wore hijab and I didnt feel forced it actually felt right...can I be on to something??? Time will tell. I am not sure what came over me but lately I have just wanted to start wearing it constantly. Make duas for me as you know I have struggled with this in the past. I downloaded the quran reader to my iphone and now in my idle time instead of surfing the web I try to read a few verses of quran...just to keep me in remembrance of Allah at all times. I guess I am tired of struggling with these things and maybe Allah is answering my prayers to make it easier on me. Alhamdullilah!

Off to work

2009-03-22T16:55:00.002-04:00

Off to work - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

I love those shoes and how cute is the outfit for a day at the office? Cute and functional is my type of style.

I love this abaya!!!! Which shoes would you choose?

2009-03-10T21:55:00.002-04:00

I absolutely love this abaya! So much I think I have to order it. I also love those multicolor wedges....man do I love shoes! I never get sick of new shoes....I liked both pair and I am leaning towards the multicolor wedges but which ones do you prefer??

Pretty in Pink II - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

I miss blogging.

2009-03-08T20:50:00.003-04:00

WOW so salaams everyone, its has been way to long.I will quickly update you with whats going on with me. I went to NYC and had a blast. We went to a bunch of cool( but expensive :( ) restaurants and I did a bunch of shopping. I was gone for an entire week and I stayed in 3 different hotels ( long story). I had soo much but at the end of the trip I was ready to come home. Too much living out of a suitcase! I came back to cold weather and lots of school and it was hard to deal with so I have been down.....but alhamdullilah, the sun has been out all week and the weather has been beautiful and my mood has improved substantially. I need help increasing my deen which has been teetering and I need to read more quran and put more time into islam. I am sure this is what is lacking in my life. I feel soo much better when I am learning or listening quran and I have been so busy I have neglected my islamic studying. I had to wake up early this morning and let me tell you, losing that hour of sleep really kicked my butt!!! The good news is that now it will be light until about 730, so thats awesome. I wanted to go to tanning today but today went by so fast, I didnt get a chance,maybe tomorrow. I went to work and then came to my parents for dinner and now my mom is making brownies.....yummy....I will eat dessert, watch my sunday night tv shows and then drive home. I am tempted to sleep here because Iam soo tired but since I am soo tired I really want my comfy pillowtop mattress... I will see you soon...I cant wait to catch up with the blog world and sorry I havent been commenting. I love you all for the sake of Allah.

Absentee Blogger and Nyc trip

2009-02-17T00:44:00.004-05:00

Asalamu Alaikom Everyone...Sorry I have been absent lately. I have had so much going on with school and clinical and just life. I am about to go to bed because I have a 10 am flight to nyc tomorrow. I am going to hang out with my girlfriends from college. We are going to go to restaurants, see a broadway play, shop and I would love to visit a masjid or 2. I will be gone for about a week. Thats a long time...I am homesick already..I will miss my pillowtop mattress...and more,but alhamdullilah,I am able to travel so I am blessed. Make dua's for me sisters.... I will keep you all posted on my trip. Ok sidebar, I am flying Continental and Iam sooo peeved about the whole luggage thing. I have to pay $15 for my first bag and $25 for the second!!!!!!!!! Thats just one way! I have to pay $80 all together and it super annoys me!! I will keep you all posted and post pictures too, Love you all for the sake of Allah

Silver or black jewlery? Which is your preference

2009-02-04T21:15:00.006-05:00

Black set - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

I personally love this whole set!! I especially love the abaya here. How glam is this black abaya over a cute party dress for a night at a broadway play!! I am going to New York in 2 weeks and I would love to wear an awesome abaya like this! I have a pair of pumps like this and when I tell you they look good with everything, its not an exaggeration! I would like to know would you guy wear silver jewelry, black or jewelry, or a combination????

LETS GO STEELERS!!!

2009-02-01T18:26:00.003-05:00

LETS GO PITTSBURGH STEELERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Coolest Blog Award from my sis Empress Anisa

2009-01-29T20:52:00.007-05:00

I have had the pleasure and honor to receive the coolest blog award from my awesome sister over at Thoughts from the desk of the Barefoot Empress Anisa... My awesome sister in Islam!!!She is not only my blogger buddy we are forming a real friendship insha'allah. Thanks sooo much, It was very unexpected. I love you sis. I have to pass this awesome award to a few deserving sisters!

Muslimah Mami: My sister in Islam that I love to death!!! Someone who I consider not just a fellow blogger but a friend also.

M.J. from A Muslim Wife: This sister is truly amazing. I have learned soo much from her and she has an amazing blog!!!

American Muslima Writer: This sister is awesome. She has taken the dauting task to organize and create a blog called All Muslimah which is a comprehensive list of all the muslimah bloggers she has come in contact with. How awesome is that??

Pixie at Beautiful Muslimah: This sister has an awesome blog and was the very first blog I came across. I became hooked on her blog and this eventually inspired me to start my own blog..Thanks sis!

Zaenab at Stylish Muslimah: Awesome blog I have followed for sometime, Cool hijab tips and more.

Umm Khadijah at The Striving Muslimah: Lots of interesting and cool post come from this sister, check her out in Insha'allah.

Haniyya Jewelz: Awesome sister ,awesome blog. She makes jewelry!!!! Hijab pins! Go check her out!

I think a few more sisters deserve this award but they have already recieved the award. Empress Anisa, Ange, Umm Travis, I love you all for the sake of Allah!

I Have been tagged

2009-01-28T13:46:00.004-05:00

I was tagged by my awesome sis, Empressa Anisa, thanks sis!

NOTE: You have to add one additional "favorite" thing to the end of the list when you answer

My favorite Things - by Inspired Muslimah on Polyvore.com

Favorite color: Pink and Black

Favorite perfume (guys): Jean Paul Fleur De Male

Favorite perfume (girls): Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue

Favorite pj brand: Victoria Secrets

Favorite clothes brand in general: BEBE, True Religion, Rock and Republic, and Arden B

Favorite person in the entire world: My Future Habibi

Favorite country: Belize, Masha’allah its wonderful there!

Favorite car: Porsche Cayenne

Favorite sport: Gymnastics

Favorite sport player: Lebron James

Favorite spot in America: NYC

Favorite animal: Yorkshire Terrier

Favorite movie: The Notebook

Favorite singer: KEYSHIA COLE

Favorite day in the week: Sunday

Favorite time of the day: Evening

Favorite holiday season: Summer

Favorite number: 5

Favorite food: Orange Chicken from Cheesecake Factory

Favorite chocolate: Godiva Milk Chocolate

Favorite cartoon: Jem

Favorite blogger: Tough one!

Favorite Flavor Ice Cream: Mint chocolate chip

Favorite Mobile Brand: My Iphone ofcourse!!

Favorite name: Isaiah

Favorite hobby: Shopping, shopping and more shopping..and reading!

Favorite room in my house: Bedroom

Favorite Fruit: toss up: Pineapples

Favorite flower: Calla lily, totally with Empress Anisa, I will have a ton of these at my wedding!

I add Favorite Quran Recitor: Saad Al Ghamdi

I tagged Halal Honey, M.J, Ange, Umm Khadijah, and Malek

Snow Day Hooray!

2009-01-28T12:38:00.005-05:00

Salaams everyone I am in the midwest and its snowing like crazy! We already have gotten 6 inches and we are expected to get 8 to 10 more inches before the storm lets up. I hate the snow and winter!!!!!!! We finally got a snow day and I was wondering if this isnt the type of weather that illicit a snow day,what does???? Whats wrong is that it took till almost noon for them to cancel most of the colleges and universities. I had already decided I wasnt going but I have a lot of friends who bared the elements and now school is cancel and they are just out there in that mess. That sucks. Since I have snow day today, I will catch up on reading quran and work on some things I have been wanting to post. I am also watching little women on HBO on demand..Random right?? I have never seen it and I just felt like watching it. I also want to figure out how to adder blogger mobile to my iphone so I can easily post pics and post from my phone..which by the way, gets more amazing by the day!

Blogger.com versus Google reader??

2009-01-27T21:04:00.002-05:00

Salaams everyone. I just wanted to know who out there uses google reader to read blogs versus blogger.com. I am confused about google reader. Its another way to read the blogs we follow right? Can you create a new post from google reader, or is it just to read and do you all find it easier to use??

Places I frequent for Iman pick me ups

2009-01-26T14:30:00.012-05:00

Salaams everyone, Its a new year alhamdullilah! I hope everyone is having a good month. I have been down for so long, I am determined to give myself a pick me up and I noticed there are certain sites that I can read for days and they actually have an effect on me and my attitude. With that said, I will share some sites with you all I frequent, when I need to read some awesome islamic resources and learn more about islam:

Sisters Magazine: I just love this magazine and website. Sisters has everything from fashion,tips for an islamic home, stories of inspiration and how to increase your iman, recipes in more. My personal favorite section is the inspiration section which is full of articles regarding Allah. One of my favorite is the story of the three dates. A woman and her 2 daughters once came to visit Aisha (may peace be upon her). Times were hard in medina and Aisha had to search the house to find something to offer the visitors, eventually she found and gave the women 3 dates which the mother then gave her daughters each a date and held on to the last one. After the children had eaten thier dates, they began to look at the last date the mother had and she split it amongst the 2 children. Aisha was very touched by this and told the prophet about that had happened when he came home and he said " The woman has entered paradise because of the love and kindness she showed to her little daughters, Allah will show her mercy because she showed them mercy". I dont know about you guys but I love reading these stories, they make me feel so good alhamdullilah!

Muslimah Connection: This is a neat site with a lot of cool information on it.

There are hijab tips, a muslimah directory and even many different ways to connect with other sisters.

Salafisisters: is a awesome site full of resources. There are many articles here that deal with being a muslimah, seeking knowledge and the purpose of this site is "seeking knowledge to benefit our souls". This website specially ask to not be linked without permission, so I have honored their wishes. However, feel free to google them and check out this great site.

Ignite the light within: This is a great website sisters, for many different reasons and mainly because its by one of our own sisters, Umm travis, masha'allah. If your a new revert like myself, you will find lots of goodies here! You can find material in regards to ibadah,islamic knowledge and this sister even has a section for what she is reading and she shares it with you. I am reading the same book she is, The ideal Muslimah, so we will have to talk about it, sis. :D. I seriously stayed up late last night reading as much as I could from this awesome site,and kudo's to you sister! I keep coming across all these wonderful websites just to find out sister umm travis is at work again. Sis, nice job. Allah is smiling on you for sharing your knowledge.

Listening to Quran: This is a wonderful iman booster alhamdullilah! I actually enjoy listeing to quran sometimes more than reading it because I can do it while I am driving or cleaning up the house and other chores. I learned of this recitation from Beautiful Muslimah and I cannot get enough. Saad Al Ghamdi does a wonderful job of recititing Al-Fatiha: The Opening, and other surahs. Take a listen.

Read Quran or hadith: One of my favorite places to go search hadith or quranic content is this website

the compendium of muslim text. This site is really wonderful because it has a extremly complete compilation of hadith

and you can search based on topic. This is particularly helpful for me. For instance, If I want to read what the hadith

says regarding music, I can go here and type in music and many different ahadith will come up for me to reference.

There is a quran and hadith search engine that work very well.

One of my favorite websites to go to find awesome lectures in Sheikh Anwar Al Awlaki. I follow his blog and I love his work.

I follow him and listen to his lectures all the time. Some I recommend are stories of the prophets 1-4

I literally have like over 20 talks from him that I have downloaded to my iphone that I listen to while working out, grocery shopping and at the beauty salon.

He is very knowledgeable masha'allah.

I have listed many resources for you to enjoy whether you like to read or listen to quran or hadith, read islamic magazine,

enjoy islamic websites and literature, and more. These website have been very helpful for me and I hope they will be

helpful for you too.

Amendment to blogger tension post

2009-01-26T14:06:00.004-05:00

Salaams everyone. My last post wasn't meant to offend any one and I certainly wasn't talking about anyone in particular. In MY opinion there has been a lot of tension amongst the bloggers. I didn't name anyone and I am not pointing fingers at anyone. That is not my point.As for mentioning particular topics that I did name such as race, taxes,Obama, hijab versus non hijab, my point was to say I am surprise with the tension that comes after these post. Like ok so a sister post something regarding whats on her mind, one of the above topics and then other bloggers start to comment and I am surprised at some of the comments I read and how it almost turns into an argument. I am not saying people shouldn't post whats on there mind regardless of how everyone else reacts too it.I dont blame the blogger, I am just surprised about some of the comments because everyone is entitled to post what they want. I hope I am clear because I am not a fan of the blogger police that go from blog to blog telling this person what he or she should blog about and I have said that on my occasions. Its your blog and you can talk about what you want. Its funny because the whole point of that post came across exactly the opposite of what I wanted. And lastly to the comment I made about the sis who mentioned people following her blog and not commenting and I mentioned this happens to me, I was saying anything about you sis in particular not commenting on my blog. I just meant in general. You are one of the few sisters who do take the time to comment on my blog so I am surprise you thought you were one of the people. Regardless, no one owes it to anyone to comment and I have read comments that said if they dont feel as if they can participate in the conversation, they will not comment at all and I couldn't agree with you more!

Does anyone else notice all the blogger tension????

2009-01-25T15:08:00.004-05:00

Reading some of the other sisters blogs lately has resulted in tension. If its not one argument it is another. I am not pointing any fingers, I am just saying that all of this tension and back and forth over various issues is draining. Race, Obama, proper hijab versus non proper hijab, Palestine, Israel, taxes and more.... I will not take part in any of these back and forth type deals because I dont want to be bias to anyone one sister. Then you have everyone else jumping on the band wagon either agreeing or disagreeing and I do understand that your (the bloggers) blog is to vent and say what is on your mind and I support it, freedom of speech ofcourse!

However, Then I feel like if you disagree with someone, the relationship between you and that person changes a little. I can name at least 4 sisters who I may have offended and the reason I think this is because they no longer comment here on my blog. I dont know if everyone is just stressed or what, or if this is just life and its honest to disagree, But I feel as if it has gone beyond disagreeing. I honestly feel like some people have been offended about some of the comments I have left on there pages regarding certain things they have posted, although I try to be careful and leave thoughtful comments which are honest but not offensive. Each persons blog is to express themselves and I am a true believer of this. I think I have lost a few friends as a result and I suppose thats to be expected. Also on another sisters blog I was reading and she wondered if any one reads her blog because of the lack of comments and I told her I understand. I feel as if I am very active in commenting on others blog but I do not receive the same treatment back. This is just an observation,no one is obligated to comment on any ones blog,its just nice if you do so. So I may just take a break in the whole commenting aspect of blogging all together and just continue to read silently like I use too. I like going to everyones blog and commenting but my point is not to offend anyone whatsoever. So considered me silent on any controversial issues and secondly, I may just relax my commenting altogether because I honestly dont feel as if the love is always returned (once again, this is fine as your not obligated to comment on anyones blog and no one makes me comment on their blog, I do it because I want too). I wish serenity would just be returned to the blogger world since the outside world is soo harsh and full of disappointments. Ok I just wanted to get that off my chest.Salaams.

My recent trip to DC-President Barack Obama

2009-01-24T00:21:00.010-05:00

Salaams everyone, I have been gone for almost a week but It feels good to be back, alhamdullilah! I had a blast in DC. I went last friday and just returned yesterday. It was soo much fun!!! I took a ton of pictures 571 to be exact!!! I love photography! Anyhow, I had a busy weekend. I did attend a concert at the lincoln memorial and I am doing more research regarding music and if its haram or not. I have heard mixed comments regarding this lately and I need to do my OWN research to come to my own conclusion on this matter. Thanks to all the sisters who have given me insight on this matter. For those who believe music is only haram depending on what your listening to, you will be be pleased with the concert. EVERY song was a positive song about basically working together, teamwork, america and so forth and although it was sung by popular performers such as Beyonce and Bruce Springsteen, it was not thier music. It was songs like My country tis of thee, Lean on me, Change, and a bunch of songs representing unity. There was not a single curse word, sexual implication, or anything else of this sort and I must say if any music is ok to listen to then surely these songs qualify. There were soooo many people at the concert,it was crazy..see below

While I was there I went to the lincoln memorial, the smithsonian museum and Tysons corner ( a HUGE mall, which was my favorite part of the trip). One thing I noticed while in virginia and DC was the incredible amount of hijbabi's!!! Alhamdullilah they were absolutely everywhere and in droves!! I can go a whole week without seeing a muslimah in a hijab at home but in DC and VA, I couldnt go an hour..it was soo unreal and awesome at the same time. I wish I had more muslim friends because these sisters looked like they were having soo much fun hanging out with each other. I didnt see anyone wearing abaya but still these sisters looked soo nice in their hijab. I wondered for a second, is that how I look??? I having been wearing my hijab and I can admit, I am still not all the way use to it, but I know it takes time and I will be patient. Not only did I see many muslims out and about at the malls and stuff, I seen many muslims there at the many events I attended and it was awesome. For all of you reading who are blessed enough to live in areas heavily populated by muslims be happy, it feels sooo wonderful,masha'allah!!

I had already been thinking of moving to DC when I finish with school and after this weekend I am more sure than ever. I really enjoyed feeling like I belonged and I was welcomed. I liked not being stared at because of my hijab. I liked looking around and seeing others dressed like me. Isnt this weird how you usually want to be an individual and stand out but not in this case.?? Above is a picture of my ticket to the inaguration. My sister and her boyfriend sat in the orange section and she sat directly next to Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony and in front of Spike Lee! How cool is that! Also she met Bruce Springsteen and a couple other celebs that sat in her section. She had tickets to the seated area. I was in the standing the area but it was all good. We rode the metro downtown and it was packed with thousands of people. I have never seen anything like it, look below

I cannot describe to you the feeling I had all weekend knowing that Barack Obama was about to become the president. I honestly feel like he is going to be an awesome president and he will do his best to bring everyone together (as much as anyone can do) and start forming relationships between everyone. However, I am not naive, I know this will not happen overnight but seriously after 8 years of bush, he can have a honest chance right? I know so of you are skeptical but everyone deserves a fair chance. To those in other countries that dont understand what the hoopla is all about, I think you would need to live in America to understand honestly, and that is not meant as a diss. If you lived in America...the supposed land of the free...but the land that is known for discriminating against anyone not representing the status quo then you would understand. I do not think being a fan of Barack Obama is harmful and represents worshipping of any way unless you personally let it become that. Anyhow, I had a blast and it was especially interesting because I am big on politics and I felt a part of what was going on here in this country. Its one thing to watch and its such another thing to experience history first hand in person..GO BARACK OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More pictures

Off to DC for the presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama

2009-01-14T17:20:00.006-05:00

I am soo excited about this upcoming weekend. In 2 days my family and many of my friends will be traveling to washington d.c., to attend the inauguration of the 44th president of the United States..whoo hoooo BARACK OBAMA BABY!!!!!!!!!! I am sooo pysched about this. I am packing my clothes as we speak. We will leave on friday and probably just relax at familys house. On Saturday I will spend the day between shopping and doing some site seeing. I have been to DC plenty of times but I have never took the time to do some of the more touristy type stuff like see the museums and capital and stuff. I am a huge history buff and because there is much going on,these activities will be more fun than usual. I will wear something like this:

DC outfit by Inspired Muslimah :

Because it will sooo cold in DC. The whole east coast is under a major cold front so unfortunatley It will be freezing in DC. I think I am most excited about the concert on sunday that officially kicks off the inaguration activities. The " We are one" concert will feature my favorite Beyonce!!! As well as Usher, Mary J Blige, U2, Springsteen, Garth Brooks,John Legend, Sheryl Crow, and more......Denzel Washington, Queen Latifah will be speaking. I am sooooo pumped about this. Its outdoors at the Lincoln Memorial so we will have to be dressed warmly. The concert starts at 2 pm and will be aired on HBO at 7pm, which I will have my DVR set to tape, so I can enjoy it again. This concert will probably dominate my Sunday since we will most likely be ice cubes once its finished. On Monday and not sure what we have planned but on Tuesday, we will attend the inauguration parade that begins at 2 pm. My mom,aunt, and friends all tried to get ticket to the parade which were sold on Ticketmaster for $25. OK WHY DID THEY SELL OUT INSTANTLY!!!!!! When I say instantly, I mean my mom was on the site an hour before they when on sell, with credit card ready, and at 12:59 she started typing in her credit card number and hit send at 1 pm and they were sold out!!! AMAZING!!! There were only 5000 tickets for the entire country and they were for balcony seats. However, you can still go to the parade without a ticket, you just dont have a seat. I plan on having a blast and taking a million pictures which I can post immediately from my iphone for you guys to see. I haven't been blogging too much lately but you can definitely plan to hear all about my weekend in DC.

Feeling kinda down lately...

2009-01-12T15:03:00.003-05:00

I have not been posting lately because I have been so overwhelmed with school. Test immediately following my winter break has snatched up all my time. I am also a little down. I had to pay $625 for my car to get 2 new tires and new breaks. That sucks so bad, because I couldve done soooo much more with that! I finally bought the new iphone and I am so in love with it. That cheered me up a little but I am still down. Its winter, its cold, muslims are dying in Gaza, school is hard...I can go on and on.I try to tell myself things could be a lot worst, clearly look at what our sisters and brothers are experiencing. I start a post on the UN worker who was killed by the israelis and I couldnt finish, it was too heartbreaking. To watch everyone sit by and nothing happens. I feel so sad for them :(. I have been wearing my hijab alhamdullilah, though i I have lapsed here and there. My eman is really low right now and I know why...but thats no excuse. Some one really closed to me betrayed me. Im having a really hard time getting past it. I know they are sorry and wants the best for me....that didnt stop them from hurting me however. I feel devastated one minute and Im laughing the next. My moods are soo up and down, I think my mom thinks I am bipolar. LOL. I just want to smile again.....ALL THE TIME..you know how something bad happens and it weighs on you and then you forget for a while, and then bam! It hits you and your down again. Its one of those things.... Thats all for now.

Princess in Purple

2009-01-07T23:54:00.005-05:00

Pretty in Purple by Inspired Muslimah

Purple is one of my favorite colors, Its soo regal! I paired these jeans with those awesome shoes to start. Ok do those pumps rock or what??? They do to me .LOL. Add a pretty purple sweater, cute handbag for all that stuff we love to carry (cell,lotion,lipgloss,little mini hand sanitizer,comb/brush,quran, wallet,ect), a nice abaya to keep hidden what should stay hidden,super cute jewelry to accessorize, like that funky bracelet. How do you guys feel about it, I love it!.....And lastly my favorite item of the set, which is that beautiful hijab Masha'allah!! Enjoy! I may put together a similiar outfit for when I travel to DC for President Elect Barack Obama's Inaguration. Yipee!!

The Ruling concerning the Muslim woman who prays and fasts but does not wear the Hijaab

2009-01-07T22:35:00.003-05:00

I am learning to appreciate the hijab and I just wanted to share this article with sisterwhostruggling to wear hijab and plan on doing it soon, insha'allah. I am happy to learn that all of my prayers,fasting for ramadan, and reading Quran and learning about Allah has not all been in vain, despite my lack of hijab in past. Allah has accepted my prayers and fast,alhamdullilah. This is not to say one should not wear hijab,it obligatory from Allah, however, if your a new muslimah like me and has had trouble accepting it, Allah is all forgiving and most merciful, Allah knows are intentions and just try to do your best to start wearing hijab,but your prayers far have been accepted provided you prayed under the right conditions( wudu,hijab, ect).Some interesting readings from muslimah connection regarding this topic :

What is the Ruling in Islaam concerning the Muslim woman who prays and fasts but does not wear the Hijaab (head cover)?:

Her fast and her prayer are correct and all praise is for Allah. But she must repent for abandoning the wearing of the Hijaab. Disobedience does not invalidate her prayer or her fasting. Not wearing the Hijaab, speaking in a way that is not good like backbiting or slandering then this does not invalidate her prayer but it does decrease her Imaan (faith) and weakens it. She must repent to Allah for that. Likewise the wearing of the Hijaab, not wearing it in front of men is disobedience but her fast is not invalidated nor her prayer. Rather she must repent for it. Not wearing the Hijaab is considered a weakness in Imaan.

Likewise other things such as backbiting the people or doing something from the acts of disobedience, etc all of this is a deficiency and weakness in Imaan. When she performs the prayer with its conditions and obligations on time then her prayer is correct. Likewise her fasting when she fasts from what is forbidden to her and performs it the way it should be then her fast is valid. When she performs the obligations but then she does some forms of disobedience there is deficiency in her act of fasting such as backbiting, lying and the like. It is a deficiency in her fasting and weakness in her religion.

Ya Allah help us ALL!

2009-01-06T22:05:00.006-05:00

My heart is heavy with all thats going on in Palestine. I will continue to pray to Allah for my brothers and sisters. Its soo terrible because why both parties continue to fight over Allahs' land, men,women and children are dying senselessly. Ya Allah help us all. Help those of us that think they are better than the next person. Allah thank you for making me so open minded and giving me the knowledge that I am person,no better than the next. I am a muslim who hopes that everyone will come to islam like I have, yet I know I am no better than those who have not. I am disgusted by all the racism and fighting in this world. I will strive to teach my children that this not okay nor will be tolerated.

Also I am soooo sick of the whole immigration racist beliefs that any immigrant here is illegal. I have heard all the info about the illegal mexican immigrants running down wages and taking jobs but the thing I am soo confused about is, what would you do if you were in their situation. I dont know about you, but I would be doing my best to come to America too. (funny cause I hate america right now..but you know what what I mean.lol) Why do we ( people in general) hate others who are not like us. Allah has created us all different in hopes that we would learn and love one another. Astighfurallah!!!!!!!! I am disgusted. I am watching a special on ABC, primetime special call "what would you do? " and its about people watching others being mistreated and how bystanders react. The special starts off with a couple of mexican laborers try to go into a cafe and get a cup of coffee. The guy behind the counter refuses to serve them because they dont speak mexican?? wtf. I mean,it was soo disgusting and ignorant. More ignorant were the other customers who cosigned on it by being ignorant too. As the clerk refused to serve the guys, 9 people who came in the store during this ,agreed. Ok so this was an experiment and the cashier and 2 labors were all being taped. Of the 88 people, something like 48 people did nothing. Its so sad. while they didn't openly participate in the racism, they did little to help. 30 people helped and offered to not come back to the restaurant or tried to help them purchase there food. 9 people engaged in the blatant racism, egging the clerk on, saying things like Amen and we speak english in america and this that. The one mexican man cried at then end and said "why do they hate us. why do they treat us like animals??" I cried too and when I called my sis, she was crying. I just feel sooo sad for those are mistreated. It was a special but people are mistreated like this everyday. My friends sister flew into a airport where they refused to serve them at a restaurant and called them terrorist. It was 2 women and 5 children, the women were dressed in hijab and abaya. I mean how terrible is this?? Another friend of mines was in nyc and a indian cab driver called him a nigger. Where does it end. The point is racism is never right no matter who is on the giving end. Its wrong and I am disgusted by it. I thank Allah everyday that I don have a racist bone in my body. I dont think I am better than anyone and I try to live by the golden rule, do unto others as thou shall have others do unto you.

Black white man women muslim jew. whoever. We are all Allah's children and we need to learn how to coexist. I am soo sick of all the fighting and while those mexican men being mistreated is nothing compared to our sisters and brothers in Palestine, its all disheartening, nonetheless.

Day 2 as a Hijabi in chicago coming soon!

2009-01-04T11:53:00.004-05:00

Sorry for not posting day#2 as a Hijabi. I am so busy in chicago. I plan on working posting a blog about being a hijabi in chicago later on which I talk about day 2(yesterday) and day 2 (today), alhamdullilah! STAY TUNED SISTERS!!!

Weekend in the windy city

2009-01-04T11:40:00.005-05:00

I am in chicago for the weekend and I heard there is a little section of town that sells alls arabic and islamic clothes,alhamdullilah, I am soo excited. I cant wait to go see what they have. I am staying at the beautiful hilton hotel on michigan avenue overlooking downtown, miles of shopping , the beautiful lake masha'allah (though frozen). I have been watching the news since I got here yesterday afternoon to keep up with the situation in Gaza and Iam sad that it has not improved. I am going to visit the masjid down the street and will take a picture or two from the outside as well as I will take pics on the street with all the islamic stores,which I will post,insha'allah. Chicago is soo beautiful and diverse! Its so nice to see a blend of all the different cultures coexisting!! The weather is actually decent, like high 30 f. Not bad since the last time I was here, it was blizzarding.I am going to go get dressed, stop by the masjid, and go onto the islamic stores and I will definitely report back. I hope to purchase so new hijabs,underscarves, maybe an abaya,a prayer rugs, and prayer beads..and what else I can not put down. LOL. I am on the 25 floor of the hotel and you can everything! Including all those million dollar lofts across the street, I mean, I can see into their living room!! Also, there are soo many muslims here! Yay!!!

First day as a Hijabi!! Alhamdullilah!

2009-01-03T00:22:00.005-05:00

Ok so today I woke up and I wore my hijab all day alhamdullilah! I was soo proud of myself. I have worn hijab before of course, but not like today, everywhere I went from the moment I left the house at noon till about 11:00 tonight when I got home. I went to the mall,bank, future in laws house, MY parents house, the pharmacy I intern at and several other places. The significance of this is that I have never worn my hijab around coworkers, to the mall I frequent, and most important my parents. Sure they have seen me with my pashima's wrapped casually around me with hair showing but today I was in full hijabi mode. Funny thing is, it was not so bad! Ok people did stare a little and that is a little uncomfortable and I had on my sunglasses most of the day and I felt like a coward for it (though I always have on sunglasses) so I took them and faced the world, hijab and all. At my parents house, they didnt even really mention it too much, which I guess is a good thing. My sis actually said I looked really cute. I went to visit my future in laws, and my fiance said wow, you look so beautiful as well as his mom kept hugging me Masha'allah!! He just kept telling me. He knows I am not very confident in hijab yet. When I walked into my job I intern at they were like wow, look at you??!! But overall, positive vibes. So you can imagine what I looked like, I created a set, see below:

My hijabi outfit by Inspired Muslimah

I had on jeans, a black turtleneck sweater under a gray sweater dress, cute jewelry, my versace sunglasses, Bebe handbag, Tahari pumps, and a black hijab layered with a black and silver hijab over top. I felt really pretty for for the first time in hijab. I know this is not why we wear it, but it felt good to feel attractive. So many men were looking at me, this was weird!! I have never worn hijab to the mall before and it didnt keep the men from looking oddly enough. I lowered my gaze as I am learning to do and finished shopping. I bought several items from bath and body and 3 sets of bracelets from a stand in the middle of the mall. I can tell I am changing for the better alhamdullilah. I spent $ 60 at bath and body, $20 in the middle of the mall, and $75 at eyemasters for new contacts and I felt soooo bad. Normally I spend and spend and dont blink but today it felt so weird and I kept asking myself If I needed these things. I am proud of the changes I see in myself I hope to keep them up. Wearing it in front of family members and coworkers was new to me, and only awkward for a second. Honestly, I forgot I had the hijab on!! As I grow my outfits will get better but overall I think I looked pretty nice and islamic. My sweater dress fit loose and did not show my figure too much. I didnt have any hair showing and although I had earrings on, no one could see them. I also made sure that my actions were proper by lowering my gaze and not engaging in unnecessary conversation with men outside of my fiance and father. Today was a big step in the right direction, alhamdullilah, I hope I can keep it up. I will let you all know how day #2 (tomorrow) turns out!

Disgusted:9 Muslims removed from plane over comment

2009-01-02T11:26:00.007-05:00

I may sound a little unislamic in the following post due to my anger regarding it and I apologize to my readers:

Link to video

As many of you know I live right here in good old america, the land of the free! Yeah right! I am feeling very unpatriotic right now. After the way america treats citizens of minority status as second class citizens, its not hard. They were mad when Michelle Obama said that for the first time in her adult like she was proud to be an American.WTF??? I understand completely. I was utterly disgusted when I read this morning that 9 muslim passengers ( click purple for link to msnbc article) were removed from a commercial airline flight from Washington, DC to Orlando, Florida. Apparently, one of the muslims had made a "suspicious comment". Airtran grounded the flight and the 9 muslim passengers consisting of a lawyer,an anesthesiologist, and other professionals, and 3 children. 8 out of the 9 travelers were american citizens and they were cleared by the FBI with no charges. Apparently, one of the passengers made a comment about the jets being close to the window and wondered if it was safe, or where the safest place on the plane was. SO the f*ck what!! Excuse me ladies for my terrible language. This just outrages me!! And get this?? Even after the FBI cleared them, Airtran refused to allow them to travel and MADE them PURCHASE new tickets with a new airline!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In what world is this okay?? I am starting to hate America seriously. This is not right. I will never fly airtran again, honestly!! They always find someone to pick on. Since black people finally have some rights in the racist country, they pick on muslims now. The system allows it and that is sad. The FBI even told airtran they were cleared and there was no security concern but airtran would not let them on NOR did they apologize. Of the 9 people, they questioned one husband and wife who were having the conversation,but removed the other 7 MUSLIMS for association. They never even questioned them, they were just guilty by association. This is soo terrible. I feel like graduating and packing my stuff and leaving this place. I wont allow my future children to grow up in such an unfair corrupt country. Its these things that make me nervous to where hijab full time and the same thing that makes me want to wear my hijab proud and represent Islam!!!

Sisterhood in Islam and I love my fellow bloggers

2008-12-31T22:03:00.020-05:00

"Help you, one another in al-Birr and at-Taqwaa (virtue, righteousness) but do not help one another in sin and transgression." [Soorah al-Maaidah (5): 2]

A good sister is more than a good friend.

She is a companion in this dunya, in this world. She gives naseehah (advice), shares her knowledge, keeps contact with her sisters in Islaam, does ibaadah (worship of Allaah) together with her sisters in Islaam. she protects the honour of her sisters in faith, she controls her tongue and does not spread rumours nor talks behind the back of her sisters. She is a trustworthy friend, a beloved sister.

These images below show all the things we do and experience together as sisters in Islam. We laugh, cry, get married and have children, protest, and most importantly worship Allah together!!

Sisterhood is a beautiful bond between muslimaat. Simplest way to spread love between us is to spread salaam as Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, has said,

Oh Muslimaat, be sisters.. uphold the ties of sisterhood

The bold was taken from article taken from muslimah connection (which is an awesome site Masha'allah) and the rest are my thoughts, With the new year descending upon us (and for some of us already here) we need to remember we are sisters in Islam.

Unfortunately, many of our sisters and brothers are experiencing turmoil in Palestine;lets make duas for them. Also, lets make an effort to uphold the ties of Islamic brotherhood and sisterhood in good times as well.

I am so grateful for all of my friends I have come to know since creating Inspired muslimah. Subhanallah, I have learned so much and I love you all for the sake of Allah. Halal Honey, Ange, Yasmin, Umm Travis, Beautiful Muslimah, A muslim Wife, Zaenab, Aalia, Lazeena Umm Yusuf, Random Muslima, Jana, Empress Anisa, OMG there are too many to name and now I feel bad because I did not name everyone, please forgive me, I have good intentions. The point was thanks to all who have contributed to my knowledge in Islam. I sooo appreciate you all. I love my sisters in Islam!!

A future muslim wife in training,insha'allah.

2008-12-31T00:58:00.006-05:00

This is such a beautiful video about a muslim wife. I am learning the qualities that will make a good wife,inshallah. I see which qualities I posses easily and those which will be a struggle. Faithfulness, loyalness, a good devoted partner, a friend, a sister leaning towards piousness, and most importantly a believer in Allah (s.w.t). Obedience does not come so easy for me. I am often told how disobedient I am. I find this hard to believe since I actually feel I am pretty obedient even though its not easy for me. If your habibi or future habibi doesn't agree, then you may have something to think about.

"Women mistakenly think, that in order to be strong, they should behave like men. They should fight for their independence. Their right to work and strive hard like a man. To be in the public domain. As a prior independent western woman, I can tell you, that role is seriously misleading. It is tiring, difficult, and takes away from a woman everything that is beautiful and sacred about her unique characteristics - her fitrah."

This was taken from one sister’s blog and I totally agree http://thelightwithin.wordpress.com who I believe is sister umm travis but I am not sure. If so, nice blog sis, Masha’allah!!

I think this sums up everything quite nicely. I want to be good wife to my future husband but Iam worried about a few things. I already know he worries about me being disobedient. I am very outspoken and I have always been. This is an area I need to work on. He wants a conversation to end when he says and I have a problem walking away. I may keep going with it, which results in an disagreement. I have a huge problem with feeling like I am being treated like a child. This may be due to the difference in our upbringing. He was born and raised muslim and I am a revert. He has a problem with my lack of respect and disobedience. Insha'allah I truly believe he is the one. These are just some area's we must work on before we are married. I found an interesting link off the sisters (umm travis ??) blog I linked above. Here are things we can think about as muslim wives (for those who are married) and for future muslim wives, insha'allah.

Islam is clear on the kind of wife you should be seeking. The Prophet (s.a.w) said: "A woman may be married for four reasons: for her property, her status, her beauty, and her religion; so try to get one who is religious, may you be blessed." This specifically defines just what kind of a companion we are seeking, for if we marry her for anything other than her religious piety, our marriage is bound to fall into misery.

"Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husbands) absence what Allah would have them guard"[s.4;v.34]

"A Muslim woman  A believing woman  A devout woman  A true woman  A woman who is patient and constant  A woman who humbles herself  A woman who gives charity  A woman who fasts and denies herself  A woman who guards her chastity  A woman who engages much in Allah's praise."

Iam honestly striving to be all of these things, Allah sees my efforts. I still fall short ofcourse. I have already thought about my dowry and marriage contract, however, I am not sure if it is sunnah to make things allowed in Islam to be prohibited as a part of ones contract. I wont share everything, but to make a long story short, I am not ok with my future husband taking a second wife and I would like to include this in our marital contract. I know polygamy is permissible in Islam. I am not okay with it and I have to do some major praying on this. Is it okay that I feel this way or am I wrong for trying to impose a rule on my future husband that Allah has allowed?? I will make an effort to wear hijab soon insha’allah (I plan on wearing hijab as of January 1,2009, but I am not sure my emaan is strong enough). I know these things are very important to my fiancé. MAJOR to him. I have no doubt he will be a good provider, leader, husband, and friend. I also know I can be a good wife to him, I know I can! Make duas for me, my sisters in Islam..Also, I have learned so much regarding becoming a good muslim wife from a muslim wifes blog and umm travis blog. If you need anymore advice on this please visit these sisters blogs,insha'allah. If anyone else has any advice on how to prepare for marriage and issues faced once married please feel free to post them here.

Transition to a hijabi and full muslimah,insha'allah

2008-12-26T13:11:00.010-05:00

Salaams everyone, this was an interesting week for me. My family is christian and I am muslim. This was my first holiday season as a muslim it was hard. It was hard to be with them and not feel bad because of what christmas represents. I did have dinner at my family's house and I had a good time. I took that time to explain to some friends and family the difference of Islam and Christianity. They were very receptive and respectful of my religion,alhamdullilah!! Although I was with them I was able to leave feeling good about my position in islam and about being a muslimah. I tried to participate in as a little as possible of actual christmas activities. I am very close to my family and so having dinner with them was just routine for us. Insha'allah I will become a full time hijabi January 1. Please make duas for me. Interestingly enough, I feel as if I need new wardrobe for my transition. Reading other sisters blogs I can see how a hijabi in tight or revealing clothing is not really a hijabi at all (aka hojabi as I have recently learned). I dont consider my clothes too revealing what so ever but they are not islamic. I think I will have a lot of shopping to do in the upcoming months. The funny thing is before becoming muslim I considered myself a modest dresser.LOL. Iam not modest enough to be a hijabi, in my current wardrobe. I think I will have to spend at least $1,ooo to get myself together for my transition,and insha'allah I will do this in january. These are some basic tops I would wear with pair of jeans:

Tops for school by Inspired Muslimah

Now in my honest opinion, none of these tops are too bad but they wouldn't be appropriate with hijab. Would do you think?? They are too revealing for hijab?? I think so, however,these are the plainest simplest tops i have and I dont think any of these will work. Becoming a hijabi is not as easy as putting the scarf on. Its a way of life and your dress must be appropriate. I have a few items I can currently wear with hijab but not many(e.g button up tops), like this :

Button up tops by Inspired Muslimah

And my jeans are another problem. Here are some typical jeans I would wear( not with hijab):

Jeans by Inspired Muslimah

I wouldnt dare put on any of these jeans with hijab. I find this all very stressful because I am having a hard time coming to terms with covering my hair, but thats not all. I wont be able to wear all my favorite jeans and I just feel like I wont be able to feel pretty any more. I know pleasing allah is number one,but giving up fashion for me is not easy. I learn so much from everyones blogs but the fashion is usually centered around an abaya, which makes it easier to be modest. If your not including an abaya, it is not as easy to pull off a fashionable hijab look in my opinion. Even most of post from polyvore include abaya.Insha'allah these growing pains wont stop me from doing what I need to do, which is wear hijab. I feel like I gaining so much in islam and losing my old identity at all once. Feeling lost isnt a good position to be in, and I find that Its very uncomfortable in the this middle stage. I also feel like I wish I could hire a stylist to help me through this conversion, which proper hijab and proper modest dressing. I am normally such a fashionable and cute dresser but I have no clue how to still be cute and modest, even with all the blogs I frequent. I guess its just going to take a lot of work and money and praying insha'allah!

The letter T

2008-12-19T19:03:00.009-05:00

I been tagged by Empress Anisa and Halal Honey -Thanks girls :D

- Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following questions
- They have to be real place, names, things, nothing made up!
- Try to use different answers if the person who tagged you had the same 1st initial.
- You can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

All things that begin with the letter T:

What is your name: T

4 letter word: Thankful

A boys Name: Taha
A girls Name: Tasiyah
A color: Teal
Something you wear: Turtleneck
A food: Taco's (yummy in my tummy)

Something found in the bathroom: Tylenol
A place: Taiwain
A Reason for being late: Traffic!
Something you shout: Thank-you!!!

On the path to becoming an Inspired Muslimah

2008-12-18T16:24:00.009-05:00

Life has gotten really hard for me lately and sometimes I feel as I am losing control. School has taken over my life and I dont even know what fun is anymore. If you knew me before, you would notice the difference. Iam anxious and uptight all the time from the stress of school. However, I find comfort in reading the hadith. As you may know Im struggling with some things in islam right now. However, I have been handling it the wrong way. I read the blogs of my fellow muslimahs and I think wow they make it look easy. I need to have the attititude if they can do I can do it too. I need to stop fighting all the things about this wonderful and complete religion and embrace it. This will be hard for me but insha'allah I will work hard at this. Narrated by Abu Musa: The Prophet said, "The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil that absorbed rain water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. (And) another portion of it was hard and held the rain water and Allah benefited the people with it and they utilized it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then that land gave no benefits). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allah's religion and gets benefit (from the knowledge) which Allah has revealed through me (the Prophets and learns and then teaches others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allah'sguidance revealed through me (He is like that barren land.)" This hadith was striking to me!! Sometimes I read quran or hadith and I feel as if Allah is speaking to me directly. To all my sisters out there who find themselves overwhelmed take solace in this amazing hadith revealed for our beloved prophet (please and blessing upon him). And sisters, inshallah I will prepare to become a full time hijabi January 1,2009. Please make duas for me.

5 Things :D

2008-12-17T19:58:00.008-05:00

I was tagged by Yasmin and Halal Honey (Thanks guys)

5 Things I was doing 10 years ago

-In high school, living the goodlife!!

-Shopping and going to restaurants with my friends

-Cheerleading Go Tigers!

-Planning my life in 10 years...( I am totally type A personality and I plan ahead)

-Being a daddys girl! ( still am)

5 Things on my to do ( only 5??)

- Read more Quran

-Catch up friends

-Renew magazine subscriptions

-Get a pedicure and Massage

-Go to Bath and Body Works

5 snacks I love

-Rootbeer floats!!!

-Chocolate chip cookies (yum)

-Chedder and sourcream Lays chips

-Tuxedo and Key lime pie cheesecake from Cheesecake Factory

-Chai with soy and vanilla from Starbucks

5 Things I would do If I were a millionaire

-Pay off all family debts

-Travel the world

-Build my dream house

-Make a scholarship fund for my little cousins

-Donate Donate Donate to every charity I could think of

5 Places I have lived

-Suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio

-Pittsburgh, Pa

-Hampton,Virginia

5 Jobs I have had

-Bank

-Macys

-Gap

-Medical School

- Intern

5 People I tag

Islamic Survey

2008-12-15T16:00:00.008-05:00

Taken from Aalia's blog and originally Lazeena Umm Yusuf..here is my answers for the islamic survey

Name: Currently in the process of exploring an Islamic name.

Location: USA

Background: Black,Indian and irish all in 1!

Spouse (if so, name and background): Currently engaged to a wonderful pious muslim man, from the USA, well traveled,educated in the process of going to medical school, speaks fluent arabic and is black and west indian.

How long have you been married? See above

Kids? None yet but very excited!

Are you a revert? Alhamdullilah Yes, I am a revert

Have you been to Hajj or Umrah? No not yet

How many masjid have you been to? Several in ohio

Have you ever been involved with a masjid? Unfortunately not yet

Who are some of your favorite lectures by? Anwar Al-Awlaki, Bilal Phillips, Yusef Estetes, lectures off the Icnyc lecture series via podcast.

Who are some of your favorite recitors? Abd Al Basit Abd As Samad

Some of your favorite Islamic books? Even angels ask: a journey to Islam.Currently reading the ideal muslimah, The Islam guide, and stories from the prophets. And you cannot go wrong with the Quran.

Describe your most memorable Eid:

This was my very first Eid and was symbolic because I am new Muslim and I spent it with my future in laws. His mother, sisters and sisters in law, spoke to me about Islam, gave me advice, we talked about hijab and abaya stores, and it was my first real connection with other muslimahs. It was just us girls, which is the most proper Islamic way. He was not there, nor his father or brothers. We were able to relax our hijabs and they showed me more ways to style my hijab and gave me several abaya’s and shaylas. I was extremely nervous and they were nothing but welcoming, alhamdullilah.

When did you first start fasting? This is my first year being Muslim, so I started fasting September 1,2008 on the first day of Ramadan.

When did you start hijab?

I have yet to commit to hijab full time. I wear it frequently but I still take it on and off. Hijab is very important to my future husband and his family also. His mother and 1 of his 5 sisters wear niqab. They have welcomed me with open arms but I know that I will need to commit to it full time. This is area of extreme stress for me as I struggle with hijab, but my fiancé will not marry a women who doesn wear hijab so…..

What's your usual outift like when you go out?

Jeans, scarf, and cozy cute sweater. Lots of accessories and a cute handbag. In time inshallah, I will incorporate the abaya into my wardrobe. My future MIL and sister in laws ALL wear abaya, hijab and some of them niqab.

What do you like about blogging

I love learning about that others are doing. I love learning about Islam through others and I love the connection I feel with my muslim sisters. Although hijab is something I struggle, I have learned so much through blogs about hijab and how I can learn to incorporate style into hijab, alhamdullilah!!

Describe your first feelings wearing hijab

Hijab: Very uncomfortable, I felt smothered and uncomfortable and I felt like everyone was staring at me.

Abayah: Have only worn them around the house, not yet outside.

Niqaab: I have never worn one and I dont own one, but Inshallah I will. I think they rock!

How do you pin your hijab?

shayla style and I am currently learning many more styles through the use of you tube video. I do not know the names of the various styles I wear.

What was on the last prayer mat you made salah on?

A green and gray one that was given to me as a gift, when I took the shahada,.

What's your ideal iftar? A nice tall glass of juice and a fruit salad.

What type of adhaan really gets to you? Not sure

What's something that annoys you at Jummah: Feeling like your under scrutiny.

What was the last surah you read? (not recited in salah) The prophets

Do you dry yourself after wudu? I always have a towel handy to dry off.

Do you brush your teeth for fajr salah? No, I just make Wudu

Whats the last Islamic thing you've been involved with?

Learning learning and learning! I will take online classed to learn more about starting in january,alhamdullilah!

What was the last convention you went to?

I haven’t been to an Islamic convention yet L

Have you ever been part of an Islamic matrimonial site? No

What color is the rug in the masjid you usually attend?

I don’t remember, I have only been a few times. I make my prayers at home and I can barely attend juma because I am in class during the time of jumah and the nearest masjid from my school is 30 min.

Is the masjid you usually attend separated? yes

Have you ever stood in a minbar?

Not sure what this is.

Have you ever washed a dead body before? No

What's the last thing you ate in the masjid?

Food that my future MIL prepared

Where's the strangest place you've seen a Muslim working?

In sams club in the meat department, only strange because they sell pork and I wonder how that works for him

Have you ever posted a flier in the masjid? no

Rate your masjid's bathroom: NA

Have you ever used a bidet for istinja?:

Don’t know what a bidet is. I have my own instinja bottle I carry.

What's the weirdest thing that happened to you in salah? Nothing yet I pray alone at home primarily.

Isn't it annoying when the imam tells everyone to shut off their cell phones and someone's phone rings in the middle of salah? LOL

What's some of the best halal food you've had (from a non Muslim country)?

The food at my future inlaws house!! She is an amazing cook and only cooks with all halal meats and ingredients. She wont eat anywhere not halal so I am learning a lot from her alahamdullilah.

What was it like when you found out skittles were haram?

Still sad over it. I was a big candy person and since my conversion to Islam, I have found out that all my favorite treats are haram…

What's something haram that you think most people don't know?

I am not sure. I find out something is haram everyday…and its discouraging,

What's the craziest hijabi fashion you've seen? Not sure

What did you like about this survey??

I learned a lot of about myself and I know somethings I need to learn and work on.

A weekend in NYC...

2008-12-08T18:04:00.004-05:00

Nyc on newyears is one of my favorite places. I have been for at least 5 newyears and will probably go again this newyears. This is an outfit inspired for a weekend in the big apple.

Weekend in NYC by Inspired Muslimah

Black is the new black and its my favorite color!

Eid Mubark Everyone

2008-12-07T17:16:00.003-05:00

Allahu akbar Allahu akbar Allahu akbar, la illaha illallah, Allahu akbar Allahu akbar wa lilllahil hamd.
We ask Allah to bless us during these special days and to accept our good deeds.

Lets all do our best to remember Allah and strive to make sure that everyone action we take is for Allah. Make Dua's for all your brothers and sisters, in hopes they will increase thier iman. Try not to backbite or slander one another, for in the quran, this is referred to as eating the flesh of your brother.

We should remember Allah, praise Him and seek His forgiveness during these moments.

Juicy Couture Inspired Set to Study on Cold Winter Day

2008-12-07T12:34:00.005-05:00

I really love juicy couture! Pretty much anything they make. I want a dog and this in this pic,is how I imagine my doggy to look,because I will get him or her,that little doggy outfit. I want the new juicy couture perfume in this picture "Viva La Juicy" , I have the "juicy couture" perfume already. I decided to make most of these items juicy. The charm-bracelet is so, so cute, I have that exact one. This is my outfit that I will wear today to go do what you ask?? Study ofcourse! Thats all I have time for!

Juicy Couture Winter Set by Inspired Muslimah

I also love the color pink so I am always looking to incorporate it in my outfits. Missing is my pink scarf, I will wear as hijab. I couldn't find one like it on polyvore, so just use your imagination!

Winter blues

2008-12-07T12:04:00.005-05:00

I dont know about you all, but winter is my least favorite season. Here its like we get 6 months of winter, from october to april. It will literally snow that much!! It snowed all weekend here it and its depressing. I hate driving in the snow, you have to plan for a much longer commute from a to b, its just a mess. I think Im going to trade my car in for a SUV. I dont plan on being here much longer but I need a suv to make me not go insane. The problem with SUV's is gas is soo expensive, although its unbelievably cheap right now, but how long with it last?? I totally have the winter blues. Iam totally not an inspired muslimah, I should change my name to uninspired muslimah. Eid is tomorrow and I have an exam,so most likely I cannot even attend the prayer. Thats the cost of being muslim in America though. It really sucks! I have 2 more weeks of school to wrap of this semester before I have 2 whole weeks off, alhamdullilah!! I cannot wait. I will work on my blog, read quran, rest, and just get rejuvenated. Eid Mubarak everyone, is what I should be saying instead of crying about my life, Iam just down right now. I think I am getting sick..I have had this sore throat for a few days now.Today I literally have a test to study for tomorrow,a paper to finalize, a paper to type and 2 other assignments that I need to complete...:( Iam so unmotivated,make duas for me everyone, I have a long 2 weeks coming up and I seriously need a boost.

I am a Muslim Women

2008-12-07T12:00:00.001-05:00

I am a Muslim Woman

Feel free to ask me why
When I walk, I walk with dignity
When I speak, I do not lie

I am a Muslim Woman,
Not all of me you'll see
But what you should appreciate
Is that the choice I make is free

I'm not plagued with depression
I'm neither cheated nor abused
I don't envy other women
And I'm certainly not confused

Note, I speak perfect English
Et un petit peu de francais aussie
I'm majoring in Linguistics
So you need not speak slowly
I own my own small business
Every cent I earn is mine
I drive my Chevy to school and work
And no, that's not a crime

You often stare as I walk by
You don't understand my veil
But peace and power I have found
For I am equal to any male

I am a Muslim Woman
So please don't pity me
For God has guided me to truth
And now I'm finally free!

This poem is NOT by me,just thought it was cute..I am not sure of the author.

I read a lot of books but this is my favorite

2008-12-03T09:24:00.007-05:00

When you are stressed come to rely on this book, when you need someone to talk to, talk to Allah! I soo wish I could read and write arabic, this is a goal inshallah. Next summer I plant to take arabic classes and I am soo excited. I know quite a bit,for a beginner but to fully appreciate the Quran,one must be able to read arabic. I will have to settle for my english translation for now. With the end of the year approaching, I am not waiting for the new years for resolutions, I am beginning now.

Goal I will complete inshallah:

1. Make ALL 5 prayers daily and on time. This is the least I can do for Allah, who has done soo much for me.

2. Make more time to go to the masjid. I know its not required for women but I still want to do this. Unfortunately,I am full time student and my schedule doesnt allow me to attend juma on fridays which is really hard for me. Inshallah I will find a way to work around this.

3.Read the entire Quran from start to finish.

4. Start compiling ahadith to read,learn from, and consult. My friend Pixie has given me some great tips on how to go about this (thanks BM).

5. Make intentions to wear Hijab full time as of January 1,2009. My sisters, please make duas for me. This will not be easy but Allah knows my intentions. I need your help!

6. SMILE everyday...for Allah has blessed me with another day on earth!

Tips for boosting your iman

2008-12-03T09:19:00.003-05:00

Salaams everyone. I am having a rough week but inshaallah it will get better. I am soo tired this morning but alhamdullilah I still woke up for fajr this morning so all praise to Allah (s.w.t). I found this article and it is helpful for me so I thought I would share. We all have bad days and fall short and tips to boost your iman may be just what the doctor ordered. I am currently in my school library and I have soo much work to do. I have a quiz tomorrow and Friday, a 25 page take home final due Friday, a drug information paper, a medication assignment and a group paper due Friday. Another exam Monday and then cumulative finals. Needless to say I am overwhelmed and I notice a serious change in my attitue when I haven’t time to read Quran. I guess that’s a good thing. Well I hope some of you find these tips useful:

7 Steps to Increased Iman

By Sumayyah Meehan

The Prophet Muhammad (S) said: "Faith wears out in the heart of any one of you just as clothes wear out, so ask Allah to renew the faith in your hearts” (Mustadrak al-Haakim).

Our Iman is not always as sound and strong as we want it to be as it often fluctuates according to life circumstances. There are several causes for weakening Iman such as deficiencies in our prayers or the insinuating whispers from the Shaytan. Regardless of the cause, it is crucial for all of us to keep a check on our Iman and if we feel it is faltering in any way then we should take measures to restore it. It is our responsibility to know which things decrease our Iman and how to avoid them and those that increase our Iman and how to embrace them.

Here are 7 ways that you can brighten your Iman starting today!

1. Recognize and Repent

All humans commit sins no matter how hard we try to avoid them. Engaging in evil deeds decreases our Iman. Actions like lying, cheating and stealing, to name only a few, take a toll on the human heart which makes us more susceptible to being lead astray from the Path of Allah. It is important for us to reflect upon our deeds and weed out the ones that are contrary to the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (S). Allah has gifted us with an innate sense of justice and the ability to reason and make sound judgements. Our fitrah (natural disposition) necessitates that we all know when we are committing a sin. And if we don't know, we certainly have a bevy of resources to find out from!

 2. Perform Salah Regularly

Completing the five daily prayers, on time and according to the Sunnah, is an excellent way to increase our Iman. Not only are we performing an obligatory deed when praying, but by doing so we have a standing audience with the Creator of this world where we can ask for help and mercy. The effect of the salah on the human soul is cooling as Muhammad (S) once said that it cooled his eyes. The salah connects us with our Creator and, along with obedience to Allah, helps us to enjoin what is good and forbid what is evil.

Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an:

"The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a fear in their hearts and when His Verses -this Qur’an- are recited unto them, they (i.e. the Verses) increase their Faith; and they put their trust in their Lord (Alone); Who perform salah and spend out of that We have provided them. It is they who are the believers in truth. For them are grades of dignity with their Lord, and Forgiveness and a generous provision (Paradise)” (Al-Anfal: 2-4).

3. Qur’anic Recitations

Medical studies have shown that simply listening to a recitation of the Holy Qur’an has a physiological effect on our bodies. Research has also proven that the Qur’an has healing qualities on the body, mind and spirit. What better way to increase your Iman than to listen to a recitation of the Holy Qur’an on an audio device! Listen to the melodious rhythm of the Qur’an and while doing so try to reflect upon the meanings of what you are listening to.

4. Engage in Dhikr

"…Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (13:28)

Remembering Allah much through acts of dhikr brings peace to the heart. It also gives us a sense of taqwa, a consciousness that makes us realise that Allah Almighty is ever near and that we should always strive to please Him. Some beneficial dhikr include:

Subhan'Allah- 'Praise be to Allah'

Al-Hamdullilah- 'Thanks be to Allah'

Allahu Akbar – 'Allah is the Greatest.'

5. Voluntary Fasting

Fasting can be thought of as a prescription for us, which cures the maladies of the human soul. There are innumerable benefits to fasting nawafil fasts. Fasting helps us be thankful to Allah for His Bounty, control unlawful desires, have compassion for the less fortunate and it weakens the effects of waswas, the insinuating whispers from the Shaytan.

6. Carry Out Good Deeds

Doing good deeds for others can be like switching on a light bulb in a darkened room. No matter how awful we are feeling there is just something about offering a helping hand to someone in need that lifts our spirits and brightens our Iman.

Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: "For those who believe and work righteous deeds is a reward that will never fail” (Fussilat: 8).

Types of good deeds that any of us can fulfill include acts of dawah, feeding a poor person or donating something of value to charity. Not only does the deed benefit another person but it also benefits our own souls by polishing up our Iman.

7. Trust in Allah

The best way to increase your Iman is to completely submit your will to Allah by following every command in the Qur’an and Sunnah. Live your life according to them and you will find success around every corner. Turn to Allah in times of distress and be thankful to Allah in times of bounty. Have patience in Allah's Decree and always remember that no matter what trials or tribulations we face in this World, one day we will be called to account for our deeds which were hopefully sent forth with much goodness and patience.

Article adapted from Sisters Magazine

Beautiful Muslimah gives example in previous post

2008-12-01T23:48:00.006-05:00

Thanks Pixie, for commenting on my last post. I actually went through your blog because I remember you had touched on this topic somewhat a while back.

"Why do we have to believe in what the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) says about Islam? Why can`t one just follow what the Qu`ran says? What is hadith (and ahadith) and why do we follow that too? Isn't only the Qu'ran perfect?

Hadith (ahadith is plural) are the recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet (S.A.W) Mohammed). The actions of the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) were meant to be an example to mankind, and except for where he says himself they were wrong, the actions are the perfection of humanity. Following the actions of the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) is actually submitting to a commandment within the Qu`ran, which states "And whatsoever the Messenger [Mohammed (S.A.W)] gives you, take it, and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain [from it], and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is severe in punishment." -Surah 59:7. And so, it is to the Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) I look to for a clear understanding of what Islam is, and what it requires of me, a believer in Allah (S.W.T)."

Beautiful Muslimah

This is a post from Beautiful Muslimah (pixie) and this actually clarifies what I was asking. Inshallah I will finish the Quran and read ahadith to increase my knowledge in Islam. This is exactly what I am struggling with and I guess I was not clear on what the Quran says about the hadith. I had interpreted it to say it was a complete book,which it is,but this is definitely a different view on the situation. One I had not considered and I am glad I found this post. I will also spend more time researching and reading quran and may Allah guide me and bless me with hijab. Is it just me or was this tough for anyone else??

Is the Hijab a mandate of the holy Quran or the Hadith?? Part 1:

2008-12-01T19:37:00.004-05:00

Ok sisters, before I even began, I know Iam entering a very dangerous territory in the subject of Hijab and whether or not it is mandatory. Many of you may know Iam not a full time Hijab but Inshallah I will be soon. Please make Duaas for me, inshallah. Iam currently reading the Quran and Hadiths to gain a better understanding of Islam. However, I cant help but to feel some of the more strict rules of Islam come from the hadiths and not the Quran. With that said, Allah (s.w.t.) Is perfect and so Is the Quran, and it just makes me wonder why he would leave such important intricate details out. I mean, the Quran is extremely detailed on everything…except Hijab. Hijab is a muslim womens symbol to the world that she is a muslimah. However, is it from the Quran or the Hadiths?? I invite you to explore both and come up with your answer. With the Quran being the only perfect book, since it was sent from Allah (s.w.t.) I would believe it would be more than sufficient as a guide to how a muslim should live its life, even in absent of the hadiths. I know hijab refers to modesty, but what says a women who shows her hair is not modest? Do you agree?? I have been doing some major research regarding Hijab and this is what I have found:

Hijab is mentioned in the Quran 7x:

(7:46,33:53,38:32.41:5.42:51.17:45.19:17)

Hijab or ħijāb (, pronounced: [ħi.ˈdʒæːb]) is the Arabic term for "cover" (noun), based on the root حجب meaning "to veil, to cover (verb), to screen, to shelter".

The problem is I have read so many different definitions of the Hijab and I cant help but wonder Allah(s.w.t) would not leave such an important topic up for interpretation, but would have been very clear in saying women should cover their hair, specifically.

Some of the main surah’s that are often used to prove the purpose of Hijab follow.

“And tell the believing women to subdue their eyes, and maintain their chastity. They shall not reveal any parts of their bodies, except that which is necessary. They shall cover their chests, (with their Khimar) and shall not relax this code in the presence of other than their husbands, their fathers, the fathers of their husbands, their sons, the sons of their husbands, their brothers, the sons of their brothers, the sons of their sisters, other women, the male servants or employees whose sexual drive has been nullified, or the children who have not reached puberty. They shall not strike their feet when they walk in order to shake and reveal certain details of their bodies. All of you shall repent to GOD, O you believers, that you may succeed." 24:31

This verse is very definitive in its instructions to muslim women. Allah (s.w.t.)mentioned in great detail, how we are to dress and act. Allah (s.w.t.)mentions subduing the eyes and covering the chest, why would he forget to explicitly mention, COVER THE HAIR ?” Allah (s.w.t.)knows best and I am not saying that women shouldn’t wear Hijab. Iam not saying that by any means but I do want to understand is where does it say Hijab to cover ones hair specifically. The only reason this is so important because there are muslims who don’t really even acknowledge that another sister is muslim if she doesn’t not observe Hijab. Surely something that is this important and that separates the believer from the kaffir would be more detailed.

Allah (s.w.t.)mentions that this is the only perfect book because it is from him:

"Shall I seek other than GOD as a source of law, when He has revealed to you this book fully detailed? Those who received the scripture recognize that it has been revealed from your Lord, truthfully. You shall not harbor any doubt." 6:114

And there is no animal that walks upon the earth nor a bird that flies with its two wings but (they are) genera like yourselves; We have not neglected anything in the Book, then to their Lord shall they be gathered. 6:38

So where did the meaning of Hijab to cover a muslim womens head come from? Perhaps the hadiths. I learn soo much from reading the hadiths and Iam in no way discrediting them.

This is from the Quran also:

"Have they not looked at the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all the things God has created? Does it ever occur to them that the end of their life may be near? Which message besides this (Quran) do they believe in?" 7:185

As for proof from the hadiths that women are to observe Hijab, meaning specially cover their hair, I am still working on it. I have more research to do before I give my opinion on it. I welcome all comments on this topic (respectful comments, that is). Iam not saying Hijab isn’t mandatory. I am just trying to find out where is says it is. Iam a new Muslim so I know I have a lot to learn and I am just trying to make the most educated decisions on how to live my life as a muslimah. If anyone knows other surah’s in the Quran or different places where it is mentioned please feel free. I want to learn from this.

The reason why this is so important for me is because of the variability of the hadiths. I have read mixed feelings on makeup,niqab, eyebrow waxing, and much more. I really feel it is important to fully educate myself and not just do what I am told. I want to feel good about wearing Hijab and not just wear it because other muslims may judge me for not wearing it. May Allah guide us all on the right path.

Part 2 will be an indepth look into the hadiths to see what they say regarding hijab.