tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82246871854947310892024-03-18T20:16:04.621-07:00Simple Muslim MamaThis Simple Muslim Mama's look at life...Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-40846473757673953482012-04-21T20:49:00.001-07:002012-04-23T06:56:55.481-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtCIgn-bWytcsDZNB79qZ6mWeutybX_Wl5dHbS9Vyg3CPaWBZpCplYQ21C3SE78C9wR_MdVwlwh2EJx6NZi1BNHjECBq56N_Dg6EPSJr9FfQ6ueJXGvRN0eC-7ZybyzOTN_WpStsvGYmy/s1600/leukemia+owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="227" width="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtCIgn-bWytcsDZNB79qZ6mWeutybX_Wl5dHbS9Vyg3CPaWBZpCplYQ21C3SE78C9wR_MdVwlwh2EJx6NZi1BNHjECBq56N_Dg6EPSJr9FfQ6ueJXGvRN0eC-7ZybyzOTN_WpStsvGYmy/s400/leukemia+owl.jpg" /></a></div>
My life... whew. My life in the last 4 months has been, a mess of details and hospital visits. Please check out this site if you want to know the whole story.
<a href="http://www.caringbridge.com/shabbarrazvi/visit">www.caringbridge.com/shabbarrazvi/visit</a>
Suffice to say, Shabbar was diagnosed with leukemia a couple days after Christmas and now we've fast forwarded to today, April 21, 2012-- and he is 19 days Post Bone Marrow transplant-- living in Chicago while he recovers from cancer.
But we have much to be hopeful for. And we've seen miracles at every turn in this road. We are blessed by family here in Chicago and with each day that passes, we are one day closer to a possible cure and health. One step at a time. One foot in front of the other.Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-46920533707236050352011-11-11T13:19:00.001-08:002012-04-23T07:06:03.347-07:00Book Review: The Story of Edgar SawtelleThe Story of Edgar Sawtelle. I picked it up for several reasons. It was an Oprah book pick. And I had a baby coming due and enjoy reading while nursing.
At Christmas I received a Kindle Fire... so I find it simply odd that this is perhaps the last actual book I will purchase (until I have one of my own in print of course!).
I enjoyed the book until it's last pages. The story of a boy who cannot speak but can communicate with pigeon sign was fascinating. The love the dog has for the boy is heartfelt. The author's ability to write from multiple perspectives including the dog's was great.
Just wish I'd known going in to it that this was a recreation of the Shakespearean Tragedies. Once I finished the book in bafflement (the end is.... weird...) I did some research. Seems to me that this book was in part a bfa project for the author. It is Shakespear-- set in rural Wisconsin. And the main character is unable to speak. The premiss works. The author did well with the story telling, don't get me wrong.
Its just that I am left thinking: How did he come up with the change in the scenery, and characters? Did he spin a wheel? Did he try to come up with the most unlikely combination of instances and make them work as a story? Did he just take the favorite moments from all the plays and mush them together to make one story? It works. Which says something of this writer. But...
What the?
I just wish I'd known it would end a tragedy-- s'all I'm sayin'Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-15425990143662792642011-11-09T12:59:00.000-08:002011-11-11T21:10:57.328-08:00First Snow!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTG9Zv53Me0TitHuCuRCkd0Xa6WR31H52QhgyPLbr8In-basx52zjQHySP-bpdK9T-6CYj1JkeAvddlDZF2H7yN4Rew6yiqo3WpYIHUTb6FrB3S6wAhiEJY_fTdHY_yO97v6lKjruDNgWD/s1600/DSCN1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTG9Zv53Me0TitHuCuRCkd0Xa6WR31H52QhgyPLbr8In-basx52zjQHySP-bpdK9T-6CYj1JkeAvddlDZF2H7yN4Rew6yiqo3WpYIHUTb6FrB3S6wAhiEJY_fTdHY_yO97v6lKjruDNgWD/s400/DSCN1321.JPG" /></a></div>
Today has been a funny little day but on the whole a great first snow! One baby or another has been having hard nights with this cold that they've all got (including the biggest baby-- Baba!) so we've been playing musical beds at night have been rocking and cuddling several people at different times each night. Babu especially has been having a hard time. So after a rough night, we all woke up (a bit late) to snow!! Big sloppy flakes and about 4 inches accumulation! Aapi was super excited to see all the white stuff and set out to organize all the hats and mittens to get out the door in proper gear today.
When I opened the garage today to get the snow scrapers out, I guess a squirrel got in-- and not only into the garage but into the attic above the house! As I dropped off Aapi, Baba and Babu heard the tell-tale scampering above their heads. Then although we made it out of the house without drama today, Aapi did forget her shoes, so I had to turn right around and drop those off. I had the weirdest feeling of happiness as I dropped off the shoes this morning. I am grateful that I can just hop in the car and drop something off so easily to her-- when I was little, my mom worked and because she was a teacher, she could never get away to do something like this. On the other hand, my dad could and often did. We were very lucky to have him.
After dropping off the shoes... I got my requisite cup of coffee from McDonald's. And they gave me two today! What a great mistake!
When I got home I spent much of the day doing essentially nothing. I investigated the sounds upstairs and playing around on the computer but mostly I just snuggled one baby and then snuggling another. It was a cuddly day all aroundAlicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-32397332794417091112011-11-08T20:09:00.000-08:002011-11-08T20:09:06.385-08:00My family is sick...Nothing gets done when the family is sick...Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-55929596742983648562011-11-07T13:30:00.000-08:002011-11-08T20:09:25.704-08:00Eid Mubarak!Eid Mubarak Everyone! Today's Eid is a celebration to commemorate the sacrifice that Abraham made when he attempted to give his son Ishmael over to sacrifice and a goat or fatted calf was given to him instead. This is the same story Christian's hold to be true with one exception. Christian's believe it was Isaac that God was asking to be given and Muslims believe the son was Ishmael. This Eid also marks an important step for those on the Hajj (the holy pilgrimage). The men shave their heads and then sacrifice a goat. In this right, today we are shaving Imran's head for the first time. This is a wajib (obligatory) act we have for newborns. Generally it is done on the fifth day of life. For my family we've always done it a bit later to coincide with something where lots of family members are present.Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-48067165534769351472011-11-06T13:22:00.000-08:002011-11-06T13:22:48.133-08:00A Typical Sunday-- even away from home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhdyHw8L9UDbLZ_b-uUhyqre7EHI_gxAeZhJUcSArs6ErDuHLfDuuPghBEnSpmedaa9vcK1RCvlQ-5cekCLIc9eNDADoDeOaVIsByAIwmaZeGPSUCNnw5jrl4zt4DNnPVmK1Pz4rR_aXI/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="124" width="81" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdhdyHw8L9UDbLZ_b-uUhyqre7EHI_gxAeZhJUcSArs6ErDuHLfDuuPghBEnSpmedaa9vcK1RCvlQ-5cekCLIc9eNDADoDeOaVIsByAIwmaZeGPSUCNnw5jrl4zt4DNnPVmK1Pz4rR_aXI/s400/images.jpg" /></a></div>
Are you READY for some FOOT BALLLLLL?
That is what I hear at my house-- or wherever I am on Sunday. If we can get out of the house before 11 am it is a blessed thing because once that time rolls around we are home bound for the rest of the day.
Baba is a Cowboys fan.
I am a Packers fan.
We both play fantasy football although he much more fastidiously than I.
Today we are in Chicago visiting my in-laws for the first time in 4 months. It has been a great visit but I was curious how Sunday would be spent here. Surprise, surprise.... we went to the park to run the kiddos in the morning, got me some coffee and then headed back to the house to watch.... you guessed it.... FOOTBALL!
Baba settles in to the games and I begin the musical chair rendition of "lets juggle the babies and keep them happy." If all goes well, his teams win, my teams win and the babies are dry, fed and content. Sometimes there is a pot of chili thrown in as well.
Happy Sunday everyone.Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-45509137473897271182011-11-05T12:37:00.000-07:002011-11-05T12:37:45.787-07:00Happy Birthday to Babu!Two years ago today, my dreams came true. I became a parent to my second child-- a boy-- a hard fought and unbelievably successful pregnancy. Ilyaas Ali came screaming in at 8 pounds, 5 ounces and in under three hours of labor (first cramp to last push!). My dreams came true not because he was a boy and not because he was healthy although both made me so very happy. My dreams came true because with his birth, I had ended almost four and a half years of unexplained infertility and two miscarriages. I don't think I slept much those first months-- so grateful to Allah was I that I was given this huge gift. All I could do was gaze at him, his fingers, his toes, and murmur surrahs and wishes into his soft hair. Thank you Allah for Ilyaas Ali. He is the gift from God I did not believe I would ever receive. His birth restored my hope and belief that I would again bear more children. And he is the reason I had the courage and expectation that future children would be born just as easily-- He is essentially the reason Imran is here today. We are so blessed with our babies. A special place exists for our little Ilyaas AliAlicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-49073854500457667572011-11-04T12:48:00.000-07:002011-11-04T12:48:58.727-07:00My Hands are not my Own TodaySo much to do with so little time....
Lots of this... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4woJSX7O7FQHtel6kCBIEkVz7CqdTZZGZ2TOEJJ0ZVE8r_0H1x-6nClR8aU4BpY9zcV8oLsJaie6hI2nAlHwE3NQELCNopCNf9EQxYsrkZnqD25iCp2q3cwLwjqmSUbs6iD6RYieAz3Ax/s1600/347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4woJSX7O7FQHtel6kCBIEkVz7CqdTZZGZ2TOEJJ0ZVE8r_0H1x-6nClR8aU4BpY9zcV8oLsJaie6hI2nAlHwE3NQELCNopCNf9EQxYsrkZnqD25iCp2q3cwLwjqmSUbs6iD6RYieAz3Ax/s400/347.JPG" /></a></div>
and this....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQyOflT3ASGvSCvleQzwZ9nL66ABGkijbodSXp0-9srJ7-xz13q5yIaBHZKt_QBCSytfo6_nSzDXCFHFzjIlppa4gu02nS2oyj_F5P8VxQI6JVqDbMgHXVvDvPQj2b-JX8dN3JZp4_V9k/s1600/395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQyOflT3ASGvSCvleQzwZ9nL66ABGkijbodSXp0-9srJ7-xz13q5yIaBHZKt_QBCSytfo6_nSzDXCFHFzjIlppa4gu02nS2oyj_F5P8VxQI6JVqDbMgHXVvDvPQj2b-JX8dN3JZp4_V9k/s400/395.JPG" /></a></div>
today. Hope the 4 hour drive I'm not prepared for goes alright tonight.Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-32429506396162690332011-11-03T15:23:00.000-07:002011-11-03T15:23:40.845-07:00Pumpkin Cake with Caramel Cider Drizzle (and why I love Pinterest so much!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjScMu-qAMx2PxukrFjastf4U7_1j0EE4EEsoypQVyfNhpEJnICmGWEm7ZntgeHG74hWJ8Sc_B8Io650bhyphenhyphenhZE7BCDqGDk_CRyhvsROy-nDaxvGyGR-tBw2tljUauxjxV6o-yTnqmFE4BZ5/s1600/366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCx1LUOh5jVmj6f0IJhgz3OHAzkm4be3Qnft_vPwGWBfde7-dU06ozWkA2lzs_C1cIWNuTr7tCj_f4sn6qeQhWSVN-9AQn5rtu2CnySXgtptOs0thuzTnm-gVIrekWOU7XFvrKc-ZxD3-y/s1600/351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQwtRe4_P-uIcyWC8fz4b1kaTyGaZ_-iZMoeXRGoc_bqBUXm8J3N8HJFKUa5slxKu7P0JFrjM5pPQRhvStmcek4PybgZGoynUE68_c1x6tEvKUWL2KPU46eprFn30cq1o025XlwgT9aZfW/s1600/352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>** Special Thanks to<a href="http://www.mommyskitchen.net/2010/11/pumpkin-cake-wcaramel-cider-sauce.html"> Mommy's Kitchen</a> for this recipe! And Pinterest for having this yummy recipe on my search!**<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZw02yKXCOERsp6FI6Dk5pfa8kNs7CkgAHh6rSxS6I1-rZT2WTs9TZa7vo-MAbeDSf14OB3KziSX6iCE8wyhmsscT1dTH8upxHDe4hxBA97YeYAB0zT6vBmunolS0yIK7vvXI3SuOn5QG_/s1600/354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZw02yKXCOERsp6FI6Dk5pfa8kNs7CkgAHh6rSxS6I1-rZT2WTs9TZa7vo-MAbeDSf14OB3KziSX6iCE8wyhmsscT1dTH8upxHDe4hxBA97YeYAB0zT6vBmunolS0yIK7vvXI3SuOn5QG_/s320/354.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aapi in the Kitchen!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="left" style="background-color: #bb2d2d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
<strong><span style="color: #cc6600;">Pumpkin Cake W/Caramel Cider Sauce</span></strong><br />
<br />
1 1/2 - cups all purpose flour, sifted<br />
1 - cup granulated sugar<br />
1 1/2 - tsp. baking powder<br />
1 1/2 - tsp. baking soda<br />
1/2 - teaspoon salt<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon</div>
<div align="left" style="background-color: #bb2d2d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">
dash of nutmeg<br />
3/4 - cup oil<br />
1 -15 oz can pumpkin<br />
2 - eggs<br />
<br />
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add oil, pumpkin and eggs. Whisk or use and electric mixer until blended. Pour into a greased 9x13 baking pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Cool cake completely and top with the cider sauce before serving.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc6600;"><strong>Caramel Cider Sauce</strong></span>1/2 - cup brown sugar<br />
1 - tablespoon cornstarch<br />
2/3 - cup apple cider<br />
2 - tablespoon heavy cream<br />
1 - tablespoon butter (not margarine)<br />
salt to taste</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #bb2d2d; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">In a saucepan, whisk brown sugar and cornstarch. Add cider and stir in the cream, butter and salt. Cook over med-hi heat, whisking constantly, until large bubbles form around the edge of the saucepan, about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and allow to thicken, about 2 minutes. Top with vanilla ice cream if you want and drizzle sauce over it.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjmbOPaMbsIgviFeyb9F3dzIkCsbjw40bzf3A9925UgApzW9lru9PPiqZhZEz3bZ49aSIJwW2JGkus-vgUyZ9u7XY8UXvXxc-iF_Y6KHT5TkbVuzOUwwuzvci0YvwRUXwIINcV5iJgV8l/s1600/358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjmbOPaMbsIgviFeyb9F3dzIkCsbjw40bzf3A9925UgApzW9lru9PPiqZhZEz3bZ49aSIJwW2JGkus-vgUyZ9u7XY8UXvXxc-iF_Y6KHT5TkbVuzOUwwuzvci0YvwRUXwIINcV5iJgV8l/s320/358.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measuring out the salt (outside of the bowl!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCQoDNyuKlmDDTxon3-xsdS2mvMLcvjMfzDCAKULHjj0_hJQnJOQbZDYWcG6wdfnjCGJagd5kdNuMYZL4cL9R42hM68Ygd2__iTr5Lv3FEn4zc4hmTj7p4dxy9iTk1UXLrGjTXuLAUmcf/s1600/362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCQoDNyuKlmDDTxon3-xsdS2mvMLcvjMfzDCAKULHjj0_hJQnJOQbZDYWcG6wdfnjCGJagd5kdNuMYZL4cL9R42hM68Ygd2__iTr5Lv3FEn4zc4hmTj7p4dxy9iTk1UXLrGjTXuLAUmcf/s320/362.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the oil (should have been outside of the bowl!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNn0LpBtpTdYk5S3orIj9H1dx54bhXB_ys9JZ71zEw7Y9MPflaCNLIUDCJjghk0klR5wdYQG2zmrm1iaxsgt30VU8bSp5XxuhuBDFEQFt3ZUlaq-86DZ8P9GuWTE42_O01uJy_9Sxo5U7C/s1600/365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNn0LpBtpTdYk5S3orIj9H1dx54bhXB_ys9JZ71zEw7Y9MPflaCNLIUDCJjghk0klR5wdYQG2zmrm1iaxsgt30VU8bSp5XxuhuBDFEQFt3ZUlaq-86DZ8P9GuWTE42_O01uJy_9Sxo5U7C/s320/365.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoothing the cake into the pan.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIglbi9HIdvwpa5AkFhfkPzeB4r0nEOnNnHf6MN5CCxaaruCsYq0gTdVA6haiMxUW90yljD9I92qo6_UBvWTtdAnJCOpxvjCMxr1Dby4sqkMRELdX5LmJktsx7T-zlVZtQ6El1ICJUzR3x/s1600/378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIglbi9HIdvwpa5AkFhfkPzeB4r0nEOnNnHf6MN5CCxaaruCsYq0gTdVA6haiMxUW90yljD9I92qo6_UBvWTtdAnJCOpxvjCMxr1Dby4sqkMRELdX5LmJktsx7T-zlVZtQ6El1ICJUzR3x/s320/378.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baking at 325 for half an hour</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIr7rZHvOoTbgfQqPLYX_TUoo6I0y4JFGNAhps6KiF_xoqxqrJT041MpXiqgw95xILHZtouASruBcC0zIL2nYB-pFS0lljKZMMWp2FdnUlwPx7EhobmTMIgeVvp-OwUN4Jc7iXdMlToaP_/s1600/379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIr7rZHvOoTbgfQqPLYX_TUoo6I0y4JFGNAhps6KiF_xoqxqrJT041MpXiqgw95xILHZtouASruBcC0zIL2nYB-pFS0lljKZMMWp2FdnUlwPx7EhobmTMIgeVvp-OwUN4Jc7iXdMlToaP_/s320/379.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working closely with Mama making the Caramel Cider Sauce-- REALLY YUMMY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This cake was wonderful! We brought it with us to a potluck that night and although Baba's contribution went over better (Tendoori Chicken Wings on the Grill) the cake was well received. We brought the rest home and I think I may have eaten all but 4 pieces over the rest of the weekend.<br />
<br />
And finally a shout out to Pinterest-- my new favorite past time haha! When the little boys are napping, Pinterest and a cup of coffee from McDonald's make my afternoon blissful! I have bulletin boards for my dream house, home organization, favorite recipes, children play stuff, and all sorts of stuff. You can see my boards by<a href="http://pinterest.com/aliciarazvi/"> clicking here!</a> And keeping all things in one place enables me to actually go through and learn more about what I've pinned. LOVE LOVE LOVE it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-53028423112802985002011-11-02T10:57:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:51:49.997-07:00Being a Better Muslim--- November Calendar of Auspicious Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCFghkcI6z_75EUaTAfXuazjaQFcnXtkQ4KehJSGLjvAnghv8a8UsvnMhGh-cmkpeS2uqK5fViLEEHK332UmmFXe8BWIoZ3VoJpwDke_BjjnRPDUk3YiuBOEWGEYC_dnKpuD19QDIS4On/s1600/eid+greetings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCFghkcI6z_75EUaTAfXuazjaQFcnXtkQ4KehJSGLjvAnghv8a8UsvnMhGh-cmkpeS2uqK5fViLEEHK332UmmFXe8BWIoZ3VoJpwDke_BjjnRPDUk3YiuBOEWGEYC_dnKpuD19QDIS4On/s1600/eid+greetings.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;"> November, 2011 Dhu al Hajjah, 1432 </span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">November/ Dhu al Hajjah</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">1/4</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">2/5- <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1349741791"> </a></span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.ezsoftech.com/stories/companion2.asp">Wafat: Hazrat Abu Zur Ghaffari (RA)</a></b></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">3/6- Listen to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4K-jRhIyZk">Dua Khumail</a></span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">4/7- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.ziaraat.org/baqir.php">Martyrdom: Imam Mohammad Baqir (AS)</a></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">5/8- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;">Imam Hussain (AS) left Makkah towards Karbala</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">6/9- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.aimislam.com/resources/24-history/1427-muslim-ibn-aqeel-principle-loyalty-and-sacrifice.html">Martyrdom: Hazrat Muslim Ibne Aqeel (AS) / Yaum-e-Arafat</a></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">7/10- <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1349741806"> </a></span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=Eid-ul-Azha&hl=en&prmd=imvnsu&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=FX2xTr6zOYKJsQKv4cHEAQ&ved=0CFsQsAQ&biw=1366&bih=643">Eid-ul-Azha</a> (click<a href="http://islam.about.com/od/hajj/a/adha.htm"> here</a> for more information)</b></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">8/11</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">9/12</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">10/13Listen to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4K-jRhIyZk">Dua Khumail</a></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">11/14</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">12/15- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.ezsoftech.com/stories/imamhadi2.asp">Wiladat: Imam Ali-an-Naqi (AS)</a></b></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">13/16</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">14/17</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">15/18- <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1349741820"> </a></span></b><b style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Ghadeer">Eid Al-Ghadir</a></b></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">16/19</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">17/20 Listen to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4K-jRhIyZk">Dua Khumail</a></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">18/21</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">19/22</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">20/23</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">21/24</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">22/25</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">23/26</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">24/27 Listen to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4K-jRhIyZk">Dua Khumail</a></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">25/28</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">26/29</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">27/1- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;">1 Muharram, 1433</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1">28/2- </span></b><b style="background-color: white;">Imam Hussain (AS) reached Karbala</b></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">29/4</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">30/5</span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span class="textBody1" style="font-family: inherit;">For listening pleasure, please listen to this speech by Moulana Syed Asad Jafri entitled "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy7DdxeHjAQ">The Internal Battle of Islam"</a> Thanks to my cousin for this suggestion for speakers. </span></b>Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-30530781596920974882011-11-01T10:54:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:51:11.705-07:00NaBloPoMo...Here we Go!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.nablopomo.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUND3u5IXYYd2t-jngYITQRfHGMX34Cs_v5Vr2ibAc6FrsddYRJeWQk14p6y9dRSreX1l9yo4N4kprGlwnjCQvcvXM_srlAZ_Gg90KnRnvvXstggj7k6_UcoAP9uLkYrhTz-dYCNzi6X-/s1600/NaBloPoMo-300x250.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Blogging at least one post each day in November. Can I do it? A challenge!... I love a challenge! And a chance to impart some information on the "lucky lady" who happens to read my posts. ;) I am FILLED with information to impart! And prizes!! ahh... who am I kidding, I never win the prizes. That's okay! I'm in! You had me at nablopomo! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some of the topics I hope to include this month:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Islamic Calendar of Auspicious Dates and links to frequently used sites for easy access</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Menu Plan Monday</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Review of the book The Story of Edgar Sawtelle (I am on page 365 of 562 right now.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Reactions to life as I know it</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My first attempts at providing tutorials on making certain dishes I enjoy (including family recipes as well as internet finds)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A (more) regular update on my crafting life.... not much to that I'm afraid</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A riotous anecdote here and there about me getting back into to groove since baby number 3 has come on the scene.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
.... can you dig it? My life-- in a nutshell.</div>Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-25648662535697202972011-10-31T14:30:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:48:31.071-07:00Menu Plan Monday Oct. 31- Nov. 6, 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYn43hkXN5ijclM3OwsrZT3KPOR8I7VzqWJsuiGpYeUqkuCGJwrim5cfAwLQvXKez1aeGSsYx2JOUvVFvgt9biOEFzdwx_WPpU1wvVGXDJk1gIVjaHkopsYMlh210AmgBmLM3xWUHnCi3/s1600/orgjunkie_banner.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Here is what we are eating this week!<br />
<br />
Breakfast:<br />
Cereal and Milk<br />
Cinnamon Toast<br />
Peanut Butter Toast or English Muffins<br />
Cream of Wheat<br />
Apple Muffins<br />
<br />
Lunch:<br />
Burritos<br />
PB and J Sandwiches<br />
Leftovers<br />
Hot Dogs<br />
Split Pea Soup<br />
<br />
Dinner:<br />
Monday- Pan fried fish and French Fries<br />
<br />
Tuesday- Lasagna and Garlic Bread<br />
<br />
Wednesday- Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes<br />
<br />
Thursday- Leftovers and Frozen Pizza if needed<br />
<br />
Friday- Eat on the Road to Chicago<br />
<br />
Saturday- Chicago<br />
<br />
Sunday- Chicago<br />
<br />
Monday- Eid al Adha (drive back from Chicago and eat on the way)<br />
<br />
For more menus, check out <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2011/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-3111-giveaway.html">Menu Plan Monday</a> by <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Organizing Junkie</a>Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-57653944661139366782011-10-25T10:04:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:49:58.575-07:00A Better Muslim...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTlRA-NPMwy_dXsOAIDYSGYkOAsWHU-wuVNCwKDG4757wQRTuqRtdtLpXWvtxPLPDDCAZHRhAYV0-lOslV03uYj-DwfhMkFVDSfMl1FTFRsAvtRIS4J8wryi43Z9sJu7gK9jFPX1RCHYS/s1600/DSCN1198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTlRA-NPMwy_dXsOAIDYSGYkOAsWHU-wuVNCwKDG4757wQRTuqRtdtLpXWvtxPLPDDCAZHRhAYV0-lOslV03uYj-DwfhMkFVDSfMl1FTFRsAvtRIS4J8wryi43Z9sJu7gK9jFPX1RCHYS/s320/DSCN1198.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We are trying to be better Muslims....<br />
<br />
Here are the proposed changes:<br />
<br />
Daily- Pray and <a href="http://www.shia.org/dua.html">Daily Duas</a><br />
Weekly-<br />
Thursday- <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4K-jRhIyZk">Dua Khumail</a><br />
Friday- Jummat Khutbah<br />
Monthly- View calendar and bring historic topics up at dinner time (Martyrdom, Birthdays and Marriages of auspicious people)<br />
Monthly visit to Chicago masjids<br />
Occasional- Extended visits during important times of the year (Moharram and Ramadan)<br />
<br />
This week's Calendar: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><b><span class="textBody1">Dhu l Qa'dah 25- </span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><b>Dhu al Hajjah 3 (Oct 23-Oct 31 2011)</b></span><br />
<br />
10/23 (Dhu l Qa'dah 25)- Wiladat <a href="http://baharemadinah.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=123:hazrat-ibrahim-as&catid=46:prophets&Itemid=351">Hazrat Ibrahim</a> and <a href="http://imrannazir.tripod.com/islam/christ/isa.html">Hazrat Isa</a><br />
10/27 (Dhu l Qa'dah 29)- <a href="http://www.ya-hussain.com/int_col1/int_coll_net/imam_muhammad_taqi_al_jawad.htm">Martyrdom of Imam Mohammad Taqi</a><br />
10/29 (Dhu al Hajjah 1)- <a href="http://en.rafed.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=491:marriage-of-imam-ali-as-with-bibi-fatima-zahra-sa&catid=84:seerah&Itemid=849">Wedding: Imam Ali to Bibi Fatima Zehra</a><br />
10/31 (Dhu al Hajjah 3)- Allah accepted Hazrat Adam's dua (<a href="http://playandlearn.org/reader.asp?Type=Gallery&fn=103">God Always Answers Prayers</a>)Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-91277271467772399342011-10-24T12:47:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:52:56.514-07:00Menu Plan Monday Oct.24-30, 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2011/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-2411.html#respond"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhacC7BCFF4Ljmp5rtqTvZpZQL01ch0bHZT_eunHp9-heLbUV8_m-ZwOGw0KykNpKRFyyh35Q4eUbVpbP_3Atx_oIx02jOVYB-_FNZvTmg3UMIlPBCyYzbcXAzuAEiz8ITCi7LHHBYuto0/s1600/mpmfall.bmp" /></a></div>
Breakfasts:<br />
Sausage and Egg Biscuits<br />
Cereal and Milk<br />
Cream of Wheat<br />
Cinnamon Toast<br />
<br />
Lunch:<br />
Uncle Davey's Special (recipe coming) with Pumpkin Caramel Cake<br />
Hot Dogs and Chips<br />
Split Pea Soup and Crackers<br />
Frozen Pizza<br />
<br />
Dinners:<br />
Monday- Lamb Curry and Rice<br />
<br />
Tuesday- Baked Tortellini and Garlic Bread<br />
<br />
Wednesday- Green Bean Casserole and Stuffing (recipe coming) with Whipped Sweet Potatoes<br />
<br />
Thursday- Leftovers (Eat Down the House)<br />
<br />
Friday- Eat on the Road or once in Chicago<br />
<br />
Saturday- Chicago<br />
<br />
Sunday- Politos Pizza<br />
<br />
For more great menu ideas head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/category/menu-plan-monday">Menu Planning Monday at Organizing Junkie</a><br />
<br />
Monday- Taco Casserole<br />
<br />Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-64933671342277339492011-10-17T12:31:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:55:02.296-07:00Menu Plan Monday: October 17, 2011Menu Plan for Monday Oct. 17- Sunday Oct. 23, 2011<br />
<br />
Breakfast:<br />
Eggs served to order with toast<br />
Cream of Wheat with Honey or Pure Maple Syrup<br />
Honey Bunches of Oats with Milk<br />
Peanut Butter Toast<br />
<br />
Lunches:<br />
Shaved Turkey and Cheese Sandwiches<br />
<a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/brown-bag-burritos">Brown Bag Burritos</a> (from <a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/">Amy's Finer Things</a>)<br />
Summer Sausage and Mustard Sandwiches<br />
Leftovers<br />
<br />
Dinners:<br />
Monday: Roasted Chicken, roasted acorn squash and Steamed broccoli<br />
<br />
Tuesday: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup<br />
<br />
Wednesday: Chicken Basil Ranch Pizza with Raw Veggies<br />
<br />
Thursday: Leftovers and Frozen Pizza<br />
<br />
Friday: Lamb Curry with Rice<br />
<br />
Saturday: Chicken Wings and KFC cole slaw (lunch: Baked Tortellini and Garlic Bread)<br />
<br />
Sunday: Green Bean Casserole, Stuffing and Sweet Potatoes (large breakfast: French Toast, Bacon and coffee/ choc. milk)<br />
<br />
View more menu plans at <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/2011/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-1711.html">Menu Plan Monday</a> on <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/">Organizing Junkie</a>Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-87668641693105392902011-10-17T12:18:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:54:39.660-07:00Its a BOY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsoghjBi8kA9ccChFZIgRt_AFw_X9Wnuq6prgO0_jcFAvZsm4hZ5MBS6Z-SBUhAcTab-AX7t7KiOMrCtnORrBjQgfty3XAsHOxn7uXd0hATKAuBhQ6y5HUWF_NROO2ZG-PlywfrYi2VkP/s1600/DSCN2041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmsoghjBi8kA9ccChFZIgRt_AFw_X9Wnuq6prgO0_jcFAvZsm4hZ5MBS6Z-SBUhAcTab-AX7t7KiOMrCtnORrBjQgfty3XAsHOxn7uXd0hATKAuBhQ6y5HUWF_NROO2ZG-PlywfrYi2VkP/s320/DSCN2041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Welcome to the world baby- Imran Ali! Already we love you. We love your cuddles and soft skin and brown beautiful hair and pink skin. Mama and Baba are so blessed to have you and Babu and Aapi cannot WAIT to meet you! You were born after an induction, and around 3 hours of contractions. You could barely wait for the doctor to get his delivery clothes on before you came out to see the world and meet us! You were born at 1:06 pm after 2 pushes and 11 minutes of active labor. You were 7 lbs 5.8 oz. and 20 inches long. We love you so much sweet boy!Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-66548690451405021622011-10-13T07:43:00.000-07:002011-11-02T18:56:21.863-07:00Baba's First Day Back...:( and :) <br />
This is how I feel today. Baba went back to work a couple hours ago. Babu has only asked for his Baba around 500 times so far this morning... grumble... Baba gave extra hugs and kisses today to both Babu and me but he still did have a little spring in his step. But truth be told, I have a little spring in my step too. I am very anxious to get back into my routine (meal planning, house cleaning, general house-wifery type stuff). And of course I get to type this out with a warm sleeping bundle nestled right in on my lap. I love the tiny baby stage.... now if only I can wrangle the almost 2 year old simultaneously!Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-16369840742479541232011-09-23T17:05:00.000-07:002011-09-23T17:05:34.785-07:00Too Much Information Alert!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZobW6S9Ib614KJyjO9ULSLM1K37Faw0gKnHDNYqz4WqQm4UeQUAWYZkOQ3rX8b-dv95YT1ffxhqsww4dsjnNrdgNZ1WRGRB2T6qmWouYiVEUu6e9q4WuCfC9jEYxhnSTqBfreWwFL9Nl8/s1600/too+much+information+pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZobW6S9Ib614KJyjO9ULSLM1K37Faw0gKnHDNYqz4WqQm4UeQUAWYZkOQ3rX8b-dv95YT1ffxhqsww4dsjnNrdgNZ1WRGRB2T6qmWouYiVEUu6e9q4WuCfC9jEYxhnSTqBfreWwFL9Nl8/s320/too+much+information+pin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I just had a doctor's appointment yesterday and here is what I know about Miracle Baby #3!<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The baby probably weighs 7 lbs 10 oz as of yesterday.</li>
<li>The baby's heart rate was 146 yesterday... was in the 140's last week and was 130 the two visits before that.</li>
<li>I am 3 cm dilated!</li>
<li>I am 80% effaced</li>
<li>If I make it until Thursday next week (9/29/11) I am to report to the birth center at 8:00 am to get things going!!! </li>
</ul>
<div>
I can't wait!! I am so excited! </div>
Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-42720254611253460992011-09-19T09:48:00.000-07:002011-09-19T09:48:40.237-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/mpm-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/mpm-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Menu Plan Monday:<br />
<br />
Breakfast-<br />
Cereal with Milk<br />
Whole Wheat Toast with Cinnamon and Sugar<br />
French Toast with Maple Brown Sugar Loaf<br />
Eggs and Toast<br />
<br />
Lunch-<br />
Bento Style lunch (corned beef roll-ups, cheese curds, sliced red pepper, dried apple, pretzels)<br />
Brown Bag Burritos<br />
Frozen Pizza<br />
Leftovers<br />
<br />
Dinner-<br />
Monday: Leftovers (lamb curry and rice, buffalo chicken chili, shaved turkey sandwiches and cheese factory cheese)<br />
Tuesday: Chicken Ranch Pizza with Sundried Tomatoes and Steamed Broccoli<br />
Wednesday: <a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/cooking/blackened-scallops-and-pasta-with-asiago-cream-sauce/"> Blackened Crab and Pasta with Asiago Cream Sauce</a> (adapted from<a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/"> Happy Housewife</a>)<br />
Thursday: Tuna Casserole and Roasted Acorn Squash<br />
Friday: Baba's Spicy Chicken Wings with Baked Potatoes<br />
Saturday: <a href="http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2009/09/my-version-of-panera-bread-broccoli-cheddar-soup.html"> Broccoli Cheddar Soup with Homemade Bread</a> (no bacon-- from <a href="http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2009/09/">Lynn's Kitchen Adventures</a>)<br />
Sunday: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup/ Fast Food Meal<br />
<br />
<br />Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-62429029622706423252011-09-13T10:20:00.000-07:002011-09-13T10:20:38.200-07:00Menu Plan Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/mealplanmonday_v1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I am back on the Menu Planning on the blog... we'll see how long it lasts since Miracle Baby #3 is due any day!<br />
<br />
Breakfast List:<br />
<br />
Oatmeal and Cinnamon Toast<br />
Cereal with Milk<br />
Peanut Butter Toast<br />
<br />
<br />
Lunch List: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/brown-bag-burritos">Brown Bag Burritos</a> (recipe from <a href="http://amysfinerthings.com/">Amy's Finer Things</a>)<br />
Leftover Hot and Sour Soup<br />
Cold Cut Sandwich with Dried Apple Chips<br />
Bento Style: Crackers, Cheese Cubes, Fruit Leather, Sliced Bell Pepper, Popcorn/Cookie<br />
<br />
Monday: Leftovers and/or Frozen Pizza (Mama is out to dinner with the girls)<br />
<br />
Tuesday: Burgers Corn and Baked Beans<br />
<br />
Wednesday: Walking Tacos<br />
<br />
Thursday: Uncle Davey's Special (shells and cheese made with mushroom soup and diced hot dogs) with Steamed Veggies from the Garden<br />
<br />
Friday: Chicken Wings and Baked Potatoes<br />
<br />
Saturday: Lamb Kabobs and <a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/cooking/bread-machine-pitas-on-the-grill/">Homemade Roti </a>(recipe from<a href="http://thehappyhousewife.com/"> Happy Housewife</a>)<br />
<br />
Sunday: <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/buffalo-chicken-chili/">Buffalo Chicken Chili</a>, Nachos and Apple PieAlicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-64786100492416969102011-09-09T10:23:00.000-07:002011-09-09T10:27:25.639-07:00Friday's Foolery: Shopping with the Babu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1l7BdqSeX9egnxUUaesC8oDCpesFiDob4mukdHJzQIfiqK_rw7_7eVYCjCabpg7ggTMT-B4LE5399HkKGbhYyGZuVTDNACiRnh-MySweScFnFQ5Vgi3auISkhKxgFyFVeLbtJONC7T-8V/s1600/babu+shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1l7BdqSeX9egnxUUaesC8oDCpesFiDob4mukdHJzQIfiqK_rw7_7eVYCjCabpg7ggTMT-B4LE5399HkKGbhYyGZuVTDNACiRnh-MySweScFnFQ5Vgi3auISkhKxgFyFVeLbtJONC7T-8V/s1600/babu+shopping.jpg" /></a></div>This morning, Babu and I headed out to do a few errands. It was a day I'd been worried he be pushed around in one cart after the next only to transfer to a stroller in other places. So, I took special care to keep him walking wherever he could. <br />
<br />
Enter store #2: Groceries... this shop has small kid-sized carts and although I had tried and failed miserably with Aapi and the cart when she was a toddler, I figured what better time to see how things go??? Afterall, he is a totally different kid from his big sister, and we only had 4 items to pick up! What could go wrong? <br />
<br />
Famous last words! <br />
<br />
Babu handled the card like a champ as it turns out! He would push it nicely, stopped when I told him, turned where/when I told him and felt so proud to put our 4 items inside. He marveled at pictures on the food items down on his level... noticing for the first time: a Tigoo (tiger) on a tea box, cartoon pictures on greeting cards, an Oownie Banoon (Ernie balloon) and his favorite of course- Sweeeeee Torn (sweet corn)! <br />
<br />
All was well with the world... so I decided to lengthen our stay and browse the store... (hmmm... what was I thinking?) I of course ran into someone to chat with as per usual in our small town and even then Babu just did awesome! Pushed the cart around me in a pretty safe size area to where I could get if need be! <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, another shopper needed to pass by. Babu with his cart had half my attention and my friend had the other half. So, me in my full 36 week "she knows not how huge she really is" glory I swung around and stepped back.... and I... the Mama with nothing in her hands... Not the Babu with a kiddie cart full of corn, ice cream, mushrooms and tofu... <br />
<br />
...Knocked over an entire cardboard endcap of plasticware, straws and paper plates. <br />
<br />
"Uh oh Mama! Biiiiig Mess!" said Babu. Yes. I thought. Biiiiig Mess indeed!Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-52852718232590120222011-09-07T09:46:00.000-07:002011-09-08T20:05:20.713-07:00What's New Wednesday: Autumn Temperatures Outside = Crocheting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/origpics/l0604a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://www.lionbrand.com/origpics/l0604a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Every week I get a wonderful email from Lion's Brand Yarn (the Weekly Stitch: <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/#inbox/1322db164126fc50">https://mail.google.com/mail/#inbox/1322db164126fc50</a> ) filled with season appropriate yarn crafting ideas. To date I have mostly enjoyed this site but only worked on a few projects. This week I found a "throw" pattern which would teach me various forms of the Tunisian stitch. Click<a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L0604.html?noImages=&utm_source=20110902_Sept02&utm_medium=Emails&utm_campaign=Weeklynewsletter&utm_content=P-TunisianCrochetThrow&r=1"> HERE</a> for the pattern. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/iYBAhIxJAU4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>This is the Youtube tutorial I used to learn the basic Tunisian stitch. It came from Crochet Geek-- I find her lessons to be clear and slow enough for me to follow haha!<br />
<strike><br />
</strike><br />
<strike>My goal is to get 8 squares done by next Wednesday and then I will post the next stitch.</strike><br />
<strike><br />
</strike><br />
Amendment: After crocheting one square in Red Heart "Cherry Cola," using the basic Tunisian stitch, I've decided to only crochet 4 in this color and pattern. They other patterns of this throw are too neat to pass up and the "cherry cola" color variation is cool but too dark for the direction I wanted to take this project. <br />
<br />
So far I have 2 squares complete. If things continue to go quickly I will post my second stitch before Wednesday!!Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-19313879527522628752011-09-04T12:08:00.000-07:002011-09-04T12:08:24.152-07:00Confession #1: I am not the parent I'd hoped I'd be...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNiAujmEcSGkjjVIPl5lsm98uqlQ-m1Ufi-az0ZURuYIYr-J91rRoxbMZzUHjEgWK9H4wCfEmTRg75AaqhTVeXBGaeuAHwytpSMihq_QpgniXOKacfx-BLuwUkN2ywMTrbS4xmBRVjOhVJ/s1600/DSCN1597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNiAujmEcSGkjjVIPl5lsm98uqlQ-m1Ufi-az0ZURuYIYr-J91rRoxbMZzUHjEgWK9H4wCfEmTRg75AaqhTVeXBGaeuAHwytpSMihq_QpgniXOKacfx-BLuwUkN2ywMTrbS4xmBRVjOhVJ/s320/DSCN1597.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I have a confession to make:<br />
<br />
I do not consider myself to be an awesome parent. And I definitely do not parent the way I thought I would before I actually had children. <br />
<br />
I try to be a healthy mommy. I try to be a listening mommy. I try to be a present mommy. I try to be a creative, laughing and cuddling mommy. <br />
<br />
Lately I feel like a McDonald's drive thru mommy. I feel like I am a mommy who only half listens to my kids and then murmurs... "hmmm?" making my kids repeat what they are saying/ asking a few times. I feel like I am "in my head" too much. Always thinking about things and not looking my children in the eye or staying in the moment long enough to register what they need or want from me. I feel like I am a "no" mommy... mommy can I watch tv? No. Can we play school and you're the teacher? No. Can Babu and I go play outside/ go to the park/ take a bike ride? No. No. No. I am failing at being a "yes" mommy. <br />
<br />
I could excuse myself by saying: I am 36 weeks pregnant. My legs are swollen, I can't bend down, I can't pick up, I am tired... <br />
Or...<br />
I could excuse myself by saying: I am trying to process all these apples... or peppers... or tomatoes... etc. from the garden. <br />
Or...<br />
I could just own up to it. I don't play with my kids like I should. I don't interact with them the way I wish I did. I can get a few good days together and then I'm exhausted by everything and I fall back on passive parenting. I am just not the parent I pictured myself to be. I am sad about this.Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-66201298922005435512011-08-31T21:34:00.000-07:002011-08-31T21:34:38.609-07:00August 31, my seemingly monthly update is due! Eid Mubarak!Wow! The last time I blogged, Ramadan was just about to start. I guess it is appropo that I am blogging once again-- exactly a month later and Ramadan just passed. Today was Eid. Yay! Eid Mubarak to you all. So much has happened in the last month. Where to start....<br />
<ul><li>Shabbar's mom is doing well with the cancer. She has zipped through 2 rounds of chemo and tomorrow is round number 3. Shabbar and Aaliyah are there to be with her and to celebrate Eid.</li>
<li>We have harvested 20 pounds of tomatoes and I don't see signs of that letting up.</li>
<li>We have harvested many peppers (both Hungarian Wax and Jalepeno's)</li>
<li>We have pickled green beans and pickled peppers.</li>
<li>We have preserved 4 quarts of tomato juice and 9 pints of crushed tomatoes.</li>
<li>We have dehydrated one gallon of apples and have three gallons sitting on my counter and MANY more in the yard ready to process (I'm thinking cider, applesauce and dehydrated rings)</li>
<li>I have had two rounds to date of false labor. I am just hoping I make it to Sept. 29 at this point.</li>
<li>I have read 1 1/2 books on home organization and have thoroughly enjoyed making my system and going through the exercises. These are the books I've used thus far:</li>
<ul><li>Side Tracked Home Executives by Pam Young and Peggy</li>
<li>The Happiness File also by Pam Young and Peggy</li>
</ul><li>We have started Aaliyah in Quranic classes with the kind Moulana Taqi out of Jaipur India. He meets with her 3 mornings a week via Skype. It is going well, and has been a learning experience for us all so far ;)</li>
<li>Tonight I met Aapi's first grade teacher-- a sweet, kind, soft spoken teacher whom I can't wait to find out more about-- but alas will have to wait until Tuesday since she will be missing her first and second day of school due to Eid and celebrations in Chicago.</li>
<li>Babu is talking more and more and getting cuter and cuter. He got his first big boy haircut a few weeks ago and is getting closer to his terrible two's by the second! Restaurants are out of the question without some type of crying and removal from said restaurant these days. </li>
</ul>Life is zooming right along and I can't wait for our next adventure! The induction for miracle baby #3 has been set to Sept. 29... so less than a month to go! Hope I make it and hope all goes well!Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8224687185494731089.post-43804729966431085792011-07-31T13:25:00.000-07:002011-07-31T13:25:04.593-07:00Nearly 31 weeks and home alone...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO4E_dQI2LchoHD2N3L-44QwNFex7O4UutzE-TwSXWnFqizVS6mK2HJPGdJvSpap1nHFYnY0AXWz_RVNbvS8sWIvMzHZpZlhUowFPqz9HQbFRpOyYXJD2VOWmP0jRTN24I3x34K0fMQ7K/s1600/DSCN1778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO4E_dQI2LchoHD2N3L-44QwNFex7O4UutzE-TwSXWnFqizVS6mK2HJPGdJvSpap1nHFYnY0AXWz_RVNbvS8sWIvMzHZpZlhUowFPqz9HQbFRpOyYXJD2VOWmP0jRTN24I3x34K0fMQ7K/s320/DSCN1778.JPG" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div>This weekend I shipped my dear family out to Chicago for one last pre-chemo visit to Aami Jaan. These last 30 weeks have been a whirlwind. Aami Jaan has been in and out of the dr. office and hospital since May with a diagnosis of breast cancer and a left only radical mastectomy. She is healed now and will begin Chemotherapy this week. The family has rallied and she has been well taken care of so far. They made a schedule of post-chemo care beginning with AamiJaan's sister and followed by Baba. He will be gone from August 16-21... including his birthday :( . The next 4 sessions will be completed by other family members. On top of this, I just finished camp last Friday ending a three week intense session organizing 21 campers, 3 teachers, 5 counselors and my family. It was fun! I had a great camp! But I ended up firing one counselor two days before the end... Miserable. And I have officially hit 30 weeks as of last Wednesday beginning my travel restriction making me stay within one hours travel to a Level 3 NICU just in case miracle baby #3 decides to enter the world early (like Aapi) or quickly (like Babu). Tomorrow (inshAllah) begins Ramadan and with only Shabbar fasting inside the house, it'll prove difficult I am sure. The days are long and hot.... and the rest of us are either too young or pregnant making fasting not only not required but not accepted. Perhaps we'll get up for Zaahari each morning to see him off. SOOO many things going on right now. <br />
<br />
This weekend I was by myself-- it was nice but I was lonely. I realized I only lived in our bedroom for most of it- haha! I really like my bed. I read, I watched hulu, I slept, I ate... all from the comfort of my cozy spot. I did venture out each day-- to the farmer's market yesterday and to goodwill/ big lots today. And I need to get into Mama-mode again as my lovelies will be with me again at some point (all I know is that it'll be at least 4 more hours). <br />
<br />
Time to menu plan again. Time to declutter. Time to prepare for miracle baby #3. Alicia Rhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15375090555468491244noreply@blogger.com0