BABY Blog

The Rythm and Colours of life

2012-01-18T14:08:00.000-08:00

I have a colourful life -
My childlren throw their blocks and puzzle pieces everywhere
If silence is golden, then speech is platinum
for i cant imagine a home without the music of laughter and chatter
I have book cases filled with books
and yes I hope to read them all someday
My kitchen is not the ideal magazine cover
...but hey I cook in it!
My dreams I have forgotten one by one
Because they have only been replaced by a better reality

Alhamdulilllah!

Our baby is turning four on the 9th of December

2011-12-07T09:36:00.001-08:00

As you grow more and more aware of your sorroundings and who you are I grow more and more proud of you.

Time runs so fast but your baby days are still in my memories. We dont need one day of the year to celebrate you. We celebrate you every day. Yes even on the days you make me very angry!

We celebrate the curiosity in your eyes and the love in your heart.

We celebrate the very intereting and amusing statements that you come up with from time to time. We love the creative products of your block making. We are so proud when you read the big words on the street sides and on the computer. We are happy to hear that you do so good in school and are the only one who can write your name when you sign in.

children can help

2011-12-04T05:15:00.000-08:00

A list of chores for children of all ages!
http://www.positiveparentingsolutions.com/wp-content/graphics/Jobs_for_Kids.pdf?utm_source=Positive+Parenting+Solutions+Webinars&utm_campaign=bf5eac779a-Jobs_For_Kids_Web_FU&utm_medium=email

Sleep deprived parents

2011-12-01T06:59:00.000-08:00

The husband and I cannot remember a night in years through which we slept from beginning till end. And nope its not what you are thinking, we have never slept five hours at a stretch since the kids were born. Someone always wakes up, needs to come to mummy's and daddy's room, is hungry, scared or just wants to play!

It can be overwhelming at times but the kids are doing so well together and its worth all of this. They will be grown and gone soon and what we have is to relish every moment we have with them now.

To work or not to work

2011-11-11T04:44:00.001-08:00

This one is for us ladies who can't help feeling guilty about working.

Like everything else, women working outside the house does come with a price especially if she has children who are still dependent on her for their well being. Lets face it - there is no one better to take care of our children than ourselves. Her family deserves the best of her and to a woman her family always comes first.

While Islam completely puts the financial burden on the husband, it is ok for the wife to work in a safe environment to support him if the family is in need of it. This should be voluntary on her. However, mingling with the opposite gender is strongly discouraged. An interesting point to be noted is that while the family (wife, parents and children) has a right over the earnings of a man, a woman's earnings are completely for herself. If she has the minimum requirement of savings for a year, then she needs to pay Zakat on that just like if she owned any gold. Alhamdulillah!

Some good careers for our girls to get into are education and the medical professionals such as doctors and nurses. Teaching and medicine are encouraged professions because the society needs more female workers in this area.

So if you are in deed a working mum stop being hard on yourself and start making dua for Allah to ease your burden on you! Insha Allah if your intentions are pure He will give you what's best for you!

Another birth story 16months late

2011-11-08T05:13:00.001-08:00

Haroon is 16 months today and it is probably too late for a birth story but I am going to write nevertheless.
With the second, you always feel more experienced and like you know what to expect but boy, was I so wrong. For Jannah I had a water break and five hours later I had a baby! For Haroon when I went to bed at night I had this funny weird pain on the right side of my belly but I slept well with it. I even did a half a day of regular chores.
The sad thing for me was that my husband was out of state and sceduled to be back on Friday but Haroon made an appearance on Thursday night. And despit Dh rescheduling and flying back on urgent request he still missed the birth and I remeber crying as there was no one to even cut his umbilical cord. When I think back now I wonder why I didn't do it myself. My parents were with me but mama was scared and they both had to watch Jannah in the hospital lobby for me. My best friend hopped out to get food just the minute he was born but she was with me right through the labour and stitching. She drove me to the hospital and we walked in together to get admitted. Her biriyani that night, the first meal I had after birth was just too delicious for words. Haroon was very fair and beautiful and 7.2lbs. Jannah weighed 6.11. Although I felt like I was exploding with pain and I was tearing right through it was over quickly and I felt it was so totaly worth it. His eyes were closed unlike Jannah who kept staring at me. He must have been very thirsty after the birth because he didn't let go off me for a good 45 minutes.
So do I want to do it again? I dont know, may be, may be not! (Its actually the extreme nausia that I cannot put up with) I LOVE kids. If it was easier I'd have one every year until I have six or even ten!

Raising Readers

2011-09-29T10:35:00.001-07:00

Children pickup fast. We all know that! Are there any secrets to getting the best use of this characteristic in children?

First we need to ask ourselves how good a reader are we. Do we read worthwhile matter? Do we have around us books and newspapers or just home deco and ornaments? How many words a day do we actually absorb from our reading?

These are some of the questions that you might want to pause to answer before reading on any further.

In a world where electronic games and virtual playing fields have taken the lead, it is challenging to get your children to close their various DSs, PSPs or Wi's and open their books. How can you compete with visual, aural and interactive features that these various interactive games offer? How can you get a child to prefer a book?

Fortunately, books have evolved too. Books are no longer boring with only words and pictures. They now come in all sizes and shapes with lights, wheels, buttons and are interactive to a great extent. If your children turn away at the sight of a book, these interactive books are a great way to arouse their interest. Furthermore books are read in screens. Google books, amazon and nook are a few examples out there. So developing their interest only requires a little effort from us.

Children love to question and to be asked questions. Try to develop their interest by reading to them initially by describing the pictures and building your own story around the characters. Ask them simple questions about colours and shapes.

Some of the simple things I did.
A decorative and interesting book rack for the children
I even had a world map shower curtain
Magnetic alphabets on the fridge
A white board
I had foam letters in the bath tub
I had them make books for crafts
I make them tell their own stories as well as read to them

These are a few of the many things that we can do to get our children to develop love for reading. Force is the last tool we should use. If children do not show adequate interest simply move on to puzzles and games that they like to play. While some may be natural book worms others might need more encouragement and motivation. Take them to the store and let them pick out their books. You can buy used books from Amazon or even stop by the local good will store or yard sales. Make it an exciting experience and keep saying phrases like "I can't wait till I get home to read that". Before you know it your little one will start reading everything from road signs to cereal boxes and the journey will be enjoyable to you both!

2011-09-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

When us mum discuss kids we often hear questions such as which is the toughest stage in raising children each we are not surprised to find that our opinions are vastly different from one others. Don't be surprised to hear one mum shout at that theforst year is the hardest because she could never even take a shower while another complains her terrible two tantrums have been the most difficult to handle so far.

I recall my dad once saying that he and my mum thought that all problems will be over once the kids grow up and become independent. However a whole new set of problems start emerging which probably get worse and worse.

My idea is that every stage of life comes with it's own package of problems. None of us are parenting experts and none of us have heard of a Bachelors or Masters in Parenting. However we all know it is a science by itself and that we all learn from our experience and mistakes.

We know for a fact that the new born blues, the toddler blues, the toilet training nightmares, the first days at school, the food wars will end and the temper tantrums will fade.

Swaddling your baby

2011-09-28T03:58:00.001-07:00

http://www.babycenter.com/2_how-to-swaddle-a-baby_10347122.bc#videoplaylist

Are you forced to nurse your baby in public?

2011-09-27T14:45:00.000-07:00

Here is a worry free solution: http://www.ebay.com/itm/190580167475?ssPageName=STRK%3AMESELX%3AIT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649#ht_500wt_1413

I have personally tried this nursing cover and it works wonderfully well. Don't be surprised if ladies come up to you and ask you where you got them from! Say hello to nursing with a smile!

The Preschooler at work!

2011-09-22T18:10:00.000-07:00

If you are a parent you know you have had a miracle. That's what a child is - a true miracle right from the time of conception up until they can flap their wings and fly by themselves.

My almost four year old is now a fully potty trained preschool going, no more toddling little girl. If I was to write a song for her it would be "I am not a baby, not yet a girl". When she is in school I miss her constant chatter and sing song. She takes the sunshine with her wherever she goes and fills the room up with her presence. at bed time she becomes the little baby once again.

After a few days of crying and refusing to go to school she once again in settling into her routine and newly made changes to her life. She is meeting new people and making friends as she leaves the comfortable nest of home. She is also reading and questioning everything which is common at this age. The battle for tough love and firmness verses hugs and kisses and affectionate cuddles continues. She is learning that 'No' mean 'No' and that there are no buts and workarounds. She is learning that there are rules that must be followed just like traffic signs that must be obeyed.

I am pleased with changes that school is doing to her. May Allah make it better and better for her each day!

The First Day

2011-09-08T09:42:00.000-07:00

For some its all smiles and for others its all tears. A tough day for both children and parents as they go their separate ways perhaps after years of never getting out of the line of sight.

Jannah put on her happy face as she had tea and then we drove off! Her school is just minutes away and she loves it!

The first year of life draws to a close!

2011-07-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

As Haroon turns one I cant help but want his birthday to mean something and for him to do some good to someone in someway because there are millions out there that need our help. We therefore decided to celebrate him differently by sharing and giving rather than partying.

I am hoping that if brought up with the right values he will not only appreciate this step but also make an attempt to continue to make his date of birth meaningful in some way.

Nevertheless this day last year brings back memories of my birth story... My decision to be brave and go 100% natural... My fear and the literal outburst of life from within me! To me the birthdays of my children will always be special!

One in a week

2011-06-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

The little walker will be one in a week
I will miss his baby giggles...
I will miss his smiles from the heart...
The love that he brought out in us...

because he is growing out of babyhood
and into toddlerhood...

I miss him crawling already
and if it was not for his sad cries wanting to be carried
I would go about my work...

Love - is the only feeling that appears
when I know that his needs are always greater than mine
The little toes and fingers when I bite
he giggles and laughs - my what a sight!

Is TV good for your toddler?

2011-06-27T10:05:00.001-07:00

http://www.babycenter.com/0_tv-watching-guidelines-for-toddlers_11746.bc?scid=mbtw_post11m_1w:1164&pe=MlV5b1JmdXwyMDExMDYyNw..

At 15 months we decided no more TV for our daughter who is now 3 and a half. It was a tough decision because it meant we sacrificed our TV time too. We got a phone and internet connection but no cable TV. We decided to spend the savings on books and educational toys for her which is why we have too many toys at home.

My daughter loves to play games on sesamestreet.com and pbskids.com. Unlike casper the friendly ghost these are pretty productive tools that we can use for her. However I find myself having to fight her every time she needs to stop. We try to limit her computer usage to about 3 to 4 hours a week. Usually she would have to be good to earn her video or game time. Sometimes I am guilty of letting her play over time if I am held up with some work. However, I make it a point to reduce the next time and compensate with some story reading, hide and seek or just playing with her cookery set or doll house.

The boy so far shows no interest except for closing the laptop when I have to use it. So as annoying as that may be I am glad that he is still not a tv addict and hoping that I could implement the same rules for him.

Love works in strange ways....

2011-06-15T01:38:00.000-07:00

I couldn't stop the tears rolling down my cheeks. At 11 months, Jessica leaves this world and although she is now in a better place she will truly be missed. I don't know her, her parents or her family but what I can imagine is the immense amount of love that a child brings out in us, that we otherwise would never have known.

After having diagnosed her with Spinal Musclar Atrophy type 1, from what I gathered the doctors said she will not make it to be a year old. Her mother was in the same baby centre birth board as I was, so our children are the same age. This is the only and strongest bond I share with her family. In her death, baby Jessica has reminded us that there is only one race - the human race! So yes, love does work in strange ways... This shows us how we are all connected by the human bond no matter where in the world we may be!

I was also informed of a girl who is suffering from Steven Johnsons Syndrom after a drug reaction. Her family is trying to collect money to put together a plan for her operation which may bring back some of her sight.

God knows best and we leave all to his divine wisdom. In the meantime let us not take all the little things that life has to offer us for granted. Let us be thankful for each and everyday for every little blessing, every little drop of rain and every time we smile that without even realising it!

Subhanallah! Alhamdulillah

May God give each and every one of us what is best for us!

breast feeder?

2011-06-13T04:38:00.001-07:00

http://soundvision.com/info/parenting/parent.feeding.asp

Parenting user manual - where can I get one?

2011-06-12T08:36:00.001-07:00

As I get some free time in my hands... here are my debates: Do I nap or Do I blog?

It probably sounds very simple but to me I have to fight myself to a lose-lose situation no matter what I chose to do. The children are mostly nice but they both have their moments. Since they don't come with user manuals I have been reading up on parenting methods and to my surprise most of them are good techniques that really work. I also contribute to http://nextgenparenting.com/ as Fathima Sulaiman. I am also a member of a number of mum forums including babycentre and parenting.com. However when it comes down to parenting what works for you works for you! here are a few tips that work for me that you can try!

Try to make friends and family a part of your child's life: i try to go out of my way to arrange playgroups and the like to have the kids enjoy the company of others.

Frequently check in on your child: Ask them individually whether they are happy. If they are not, ask them then what would make them happy. Explain why or why not you can or cannot give them what they want.

Try to lead them into solving their own problems instead of solving them. avoid helicopter parenting and try to give them leads as to how they could solve their own problems. example: "try changing your shoes to the right feet" or "try pulling out your shoe tongue so it fits better"

And finally as always celebrate their achievements. Tell them when they did good and remind them of their past achievements. example: yesterday you did a great job cleaning up.

Baby Bath Review!

2011-06-11T15:25:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x61cevDBNOY&feature=relmfu

10 Tips for Raising Moral Children

2011-06-06T06:56:00.001-07:00

http://moralsandethics.wordpress.com/2007/09/11/10-tips-for-raising-moral-children/

and more:

http://www.videojug.com/interview/how-to-say-no-to-your-childs-request-without-making-them-angry

2011-05-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

I was born and grew up in the other side of the world yet am raising my children here in the West. I climbed up the trees and swam in the rivers... my children have a closed play area with swings and slides. They have an over crowded pool, lots of toys and not much adult attention. Sometimes I sit down and think what I'm doing here. I come from Sri Lanka... and if you still haven't heard about it, its a little island in the south of India, although it is nothing like India. My children miss their grandparents very much. Thanks to skype they are not faraway. Grandparents are a important part of a child's life and sometimes feel it is unfair to take away that blessing from them. Jannah adores her Appa (grandfather). She doesn't understand why umama and appa have to go to bed when it is just getting bright and sunny for us.

7 Signs your child loves you

2011-05-24T16:05:00.001-07:00

http://www.babycenter.com/0_7-signs-that-your-child-loves-you_10327319.bc?scid=momsbaby_20110524:2&pe=MlV5b1JmdXwyMDExMDUyNA..

Homeschooling - A choice for many parents today

2011-05-21T03:05:00.000-07:00

The husband has always been telling me what a great teacher I am and that I should home school the kids. We have been researching about home schooling options for my three year old. There are many reasons for this and I shall list down a few here for you to consider.

Individual attention and student centered learning
Bad influence and bullying will not be a part of home schooling
Valuable time will not be wasted on travelling
There are a number of public and private online schools that can assist you.
You can study at your own pace in your own scheduled
It is formalized and graded just like any education system
You are location independent
It is also a way of spending quality time with parents and siblings.
The weather and other similar uncontrollable factors will most often not affect you
If you are sick you can still do some work without the spreading of germs
There are a number of personalised training options such as video based learning for visual learners or audio based approach for audio learners.
The school district you belong to, doesn't matter.
Education through edutainment.

Wow!

The more I think of it the more inclined I am to it and so I talked about it with my friends and also updated my facebook status asking WYOO homeschooling. Some of my friends happen to mention that the child will be isolated and that there is less socializing. Social skills are definitely important in the development of a child. If you enroll your child into any home schooling program you will see that they do have events, group projects, picnics and parties. Although interaction is not on an everyday basis or limited, you can have your child engage in a number of extracurricular activities from swimming to sports to bungee jumping. In the modern day whether school going or not many children are glued to phones, video games and other electronic entertainment devices which severely affect interpersonal and social skills.

Let me share a few links that may help you look at conventional academic programs differently
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG9CE55wbtY
http://www.khanacademy.org/

2011-05-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

Get set ready, go! and we have a walker... he took his first steps on may 13th. just as i guessed he walks at ten months... two months early on everything. Sometimes i feel he will just skip walking and start running but my fears have reduced greatly as he has mastered the stairs and is quite a careful little baby. Still loves to put things in his mouth and get away before i could catch him. I know I'll be racing him all day long and in a way I'm sad because walking means the end of babyhood. However they will always be babies in the eyes of a mother, wont they?

The two bottom front teeth have come in nice and strong.. i can see the upper ones peeping too! Lol but teeth are the least of his necessities... he just loves being mobile on twos!

9 months inside; 9 months outside - done

2011-04-08T10:38:00.001-07:00

So the flight of steps is a joke... The naughtyness can easily be hidden under a smile... the playfulness pays off for the cheekyness...
My boy is a crawler, climber, stander and supported walker! But guess what? He has no teeth!!!

He manages to chew everything well though - even tough metals, plastic and paper!

Coping with the challenges of being a New Mother

2011-03-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMprFY6q1aM&feature=related

My number 1 at the moment!

2011-03-15T05:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.eaganwestmomsclub.org/Poetry/SongForChild.htm

Song for a Fifth Child

Mother, oh mother, come shake out your cloth!

Empty the dustpan, poison the moth,

Hang out the washing and butter the bread,

Sew on a button and make up a bed.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?

She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking!

Oh, I’ve grown as shiftless as Little Boy Blue

(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

Dishes are waiting and bills are past due

(Pat- a- cake, darling and peek, peekaboo).

The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew

And out in the yard and there’s a hullabaloo

But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo.

Look! Aren’t her eyes the most wonderful hue?

(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

Oh, cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,

But children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.

So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.

I’m rocking my baby. Babies don’t keep.

The boy turns 8 months in 4 days.

2011-03-04T09:27:00.001-08:00

He crawled at 6 months and he is walking with support at seven months. He eats pretty much everything we eat and .drinks off a cup. Yes Masha Allah he is one fast developer. It amazes me. Even says mama and copies many other sounds. With the first child you are excited about every little milestone. With the second you hardly notice them. It astonishes me though to see that one sibling can be so different from the other. My first baby was special and unique and she was happy smiling, singing baby. She still is. She was cute but every child is cute to their parents. My boy may not be cute but he is so lovable in a very different way. You have to fight yourself to not kiss him when you see him. And his smile can just light up the room. He doesnt giggle as much as his sister used too.... they are just so different and so special in their own sweet sweet ways! We love them to pieces... its just like bits and pieces of heaven on earth!

The Time Out Technique

2011-03-04T09:24:00.001-08:00

http://www.askdrsears.com/html/6/t061900.asp

The search for schools

2011-03-04T08:54:00.000-08:00

I am not looking forward to Jannah's first day of school. I will miss her. I mean in all honesty yes I do find myself secretly wishing for a break sometimes but the reality is that it will be tough for both of us. The recent past has been very hard for me which is why I rarely post over here or have any time to take pics of my kids like I used to. I have work to do almost all the time and in additon to that I have to fight tantrums and be level headed all day long. Some days are good and some days are bad. Some nights are nice and some nights are tiring, sleepless and very stressed out.

Alhamdulillah whatever comes our way we manage and at the end of our day we remind ourselves that we are blessed with something beautiful. We feel thankful and grateful for every moment we have had as family. There are millions out there who have children who are sick or can not even conceive at all and Masha Allah we happen to be doing fine. And Allah Knows best!

Muslim schools or regular schools?

Islamic education is important but you cannot blindly put your children in an islamic school and not give them adequate back up at home. I studied in a strict islamic environment yet have seen students at both ends of the spectrum. Home is a child's first school and home schooling conitues whether your child is in a regular school or not. A balanced aproach to life with guidance given and values taugh earlier on in life will help a child in what decisions to make and which actions to take when he or she is at a age to tell right from wrong.

Every child's wish!

2011-02-23T10:43:00.001-08:00

'Mommy and daddy "you" are the best gift you can give me!'

The little crawler has me on my toes

2011-02-09T04:13:00.001-08:00

He's been crawling soon after he turned half a year... his motor skills just blow me away!!

An old friend shares her thoughts....

2011-01-16T07:17:00.001-08:00

Click here for the blog

Top Ten Ways to Teach Values to Your Kids

2011-01-16T04:46:00.000-08:00

How can you teach values to your kids? Here are ten ideas to help you:

1. Tell them your life stories and teach through your stories

Kids love to hear stories about your childhood. Weave in some moral dilemmas, and you’ve got great opportunities to teach them values. It’s especially effective at bedtime, when there are fewer distractions. They’ll fall asleep with the story swirling around inside them.

2. Live your own life according to your values—walk the talk.

Kids learn by imitating, especially at a young age. They’re very adept at seeing the match between what you say and what you do. Don’t give them confusing signals; follow your own values every moment.

3. Expose them to your religion, faith, or spirituality

It seems especially important to let your kids know they’re not alone. Guiding your kids towards your faith or spiritual beliefs will strengthen their values, and provide parents with a framework for their life.

4. Pay attention to who else might be teaching values to your kids

Get to know your child’s teachers, coaches, friends, etc. Anyone who spends time with your children may be influencing them. Know their values and beliefs as well.

5. Ask your kids questions that will stimulate dialogue about values

Telling your kids what values they should have won’t be very effective, especially when your kids get older. Asking them “curious” questions will allow discussions that will eventually lead to values. “What did you think about that fight?” will be more effective than, “He shouldn’t have started that fight!”

6. Talk to them about values in a relaxed and easy way

Nothing will turn your kids off more than preaching values to them after they’ve screwed up! Talk to them when everyone’s relaxed, and do it in a light, conversational manner. Be aware of using the “parental tone,” which has your kids wanting to run for the door.

7. Limit their exposure to TV and video games

One of the ways to teach values to your kids is by showing them what you avoid. Advertisers in the US will be spending over 3 billion dollars to try and convince your kids that they’ll feel better if they have the right clothes, etc. If you really want to show them there are more valuable ways to spend your time, limit your own TV watching as well.

8. Involve your kids in helping others

Kids learn values when they experience them. Allow them to experience helping others by donating a portion of their money to the needy, or by getting involved in charity work. When your kids can see first-hand the results of their efforts, an important value will be established for a lifetime.

9. Have frequent conversations about values in your household

Don’t make the mistake of only talking about values when something goes wrong. Your kids need to hear your values reflected often in conversations. It’s another way for them to know that it’s important.

10. Have high expectations for your kids’ value systems

Your kids will tend to rise to the level of your expectations. Their value system will often reflect yours, as long as you expect them to make it an important part of their life. When your kids are making a decision, ask them to consider how their decision fits into their own value system.

Datha, Dear Datha!

2011-01-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

The past few months brought some twists and turns in her life but don't we all have those? She turned three on the 9th of December. It has been an unbelievingly amazing journey for everyone who so dearly loves her. Six months ago she got the chance to meet her maternal grandparents for the second time. The last time they saw her was when she was a baby just like her brother is now. She has a wonderful time with her grandparents who loved her to pieces. She grew very fond of them and hardly spent a minute without them. We also made a trip back home where for the first time she met and made friends with many of our relatives.

On the down side we also began to see many unnecessary temper tantrums. May be it was the terrible twos or may be it was the coming of a new baby brother or may be the spoiling of the grandparents or all three of those combined but Jannah was becoming somewhat difficult to handle. We thought we had the perfect daughter until she started wanting to do things by herself and then got very angry when she was not able to or someone tried to help her. We told ourselves it was passing phase and dealt with it patiently. We had to send her on time out and we used the count down method which both worked well in winning herself back.

She is now slowly coming back to being the sweet child she used to be same time last year. Lovable, kind, polite and extremely adorable. She chats and talks all the time. When haroon cries she comes running to rescue and entertains him - a great little helper for me. She is very gentle and loving towards him. She is awfully fond of her dada but is also quite a mama's girl. She doesnt really like nap time and is a less fussier eater than what she used to be.

The toilet nightmares and temper tantrums are finally ending and she is doing good with her counting and social skills. She cracks us up all the time with the things she says. A very happy and content child who is slowly growing into her girlhood is emerging from this baby faced angel. Very soon she will be independent and will grow out of her childish habits but our love for her will always be fresh in our hearts... as fresh as it was the day she was born..

and I have to thank God everyday for the two! They mess up your home big time but beautify your life in ways that are unimaginable... Alhamdulillah!

six months in three days!

2011-01-04T13:24:00.001-08:00

I am guilty of not writing up enough updates about my boy. When you have two kids to manage you end up being really busy all the time. I could have made some time for this though which is why I feel bad. He turns six months on Jan 8^th and I turn 27. Wow! Once you become an adult time does seem to run fast. So I'm in my late 20s and yes that is sad but I tell myself that each year we live longer we get closer to dying. And dying does not have to be something to be afraid of depending on how we live our lives.

Haroon has been a wonderful, happy baby. He smiles almost all the time and giggles when you make him laugh. When the world around me goes crazy that beautiful toothless smile seems to appear out of no where as if to say “Its ok mommy, everything will be ok” And I cant help but smile back!

Love is an amazing thing but a mothers love is even more amazing. It is pure and true... giving and giving with no expectation or and no returns at all!

As he rolls over and lifts himself up attempting to crawl... getting about just anywhere he wants to, I can only imagine how much more mobile my life woulg get, running after him trying to keep him safe. More updates on the loving sister will follow when time permits.

PPP: The Pleasures and Pains of Parenting

2010-12-21T16:59:00.000-08:00

Two babies asleep.

Hair a total mess

Is my day done or will there be more?

tantrums, yells, cries and pain

smiles, games, thrill and joy

the soft breeze of the night

yet loud enough to wake them up

the short days of winter

yet not so short for me

A spill here, a tear there

A kiss and a cuddle

to cure a bruise or a fall

Bed time stories and meal time messes

The things they say will make you laugh

The things they do will chase you away

Love fills my heart

yet tears fill my eyes

Its much harder than I thought

being a mother and a wife

the hardest job in the world!

Yet at night when they close their eyes

It all seems worth it...

It all seems right

I am as grateful as can be

for the children as wonderful as they are

I am happy, so happy to be their mum

And so blessed that they are mine!

When smiles and cries are all you see and hear all day long!

2010-08-27T21:19:00.001-07:00

Life with the kids has been crazy enough. Add moving and ramadan to it and multiply it with two flights of stairs that need to be climbed about 10 times a day. I am exhausted and that probably is an understatement. I am guilty of not spending enough time with J. She is a child who has been used to being the centre of attention and now all of a sudden the demands and challenges have increased and I find it hard to make time to read to her and just hang around, or play or walk.

Little Haroon gave me his beautiful smile a couple of times and it is one of the most beautiful things that can meet a mother's eyes. We are settling in and adjusting to a new life. Grandparents are a great hep and a source of strength when you seem to feel lost or lonely. Come this fall and they will be gone but let me cross that bridge when I get there. Miss Amber and her kids... I am glad we still can see each other unlike Lilly who is 1000 or more miles away in Arizona. My adventures continue and I will keep posting in my many blogs as and when my chores take a rear seat.

Until then keep spreading the love!

To a loving daughter with diamond eyes and sunshine filled smiles!

2010-08-27T21:11:00.001-07:00

Everyday you grow more beautiful in my eyes...

and although I may be tired and stressed and shout at you I miss you terribly every second that you are not within my sight. My lovely angel, you are the reason we wanted more kids... you brought love and joy to our hearts in a way that nobody else could. We love you everyday much more than you will ever know and sometimes though our acts may seem heartless and unkind, its your best interest that we always have at heart.

Loving regards

Mum and Dad

2010-07-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

Every day is like a beaded string

little memories held within

every action, word and deed

lingers silently in my mind

everyday is a precious ring

the same thing

never ending

yet in the circle of life

the joys and the feelings

rekindle the fires within

and wake up the sleeping soul

and as I close my eyes I see

the smiles of the blissful children

the fights and the wars

and plenty of playful yelling

the bed time battles

stories to bring slumber

to sweet little eyes

that wont surrender

chasing the rabbits through the woods

tracing the chipmunk's footprints on the snow

a scribble on the wall, a spill on the floor

little fingers and busy toes

the laughter and noise

that bring love and cheers

the cuddles and tears

that light up life

without them

the home would be bare

the days would be dark

and the silence will glare

Thank God for children!

How wonderful they are!

Twice the joy

2010-07-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

Little Haroon Abdullah was due today but as God had other plans for him he happens to be 12 days old today. I was lucky enough to spend a day with him. His grandparents, sister and dad have been out and I got to be with him all day which was a wonderful experience because people are always worried about leaving new borns alone with their moms so young so early.

Who is this little person

He looks like the boy version of his sister. Besides taking in, processing and wasting out food he also raises his head and looks around at his environment. He doesn't seem to mind his sister shouting around him and she loves him a lot, too. At first she was sad that the lime light was shifting a little. Now she is adjusting real good. I want for them to be good friends and siblings. To love and look out for one another to teach and guide and be true...

I try to look into his eyes and try to imagine what the future will be like for the four of us. Will there be more? Will they be happy and pious and educated? Dreams of parents are as deep as the deepest oceans and as wide as the skies.

My whole life seems complete now and my children make me feel proud and content. The blessings of Allah cannot be counted.

Haroon Abdullah Ahamat - Alhamdulillah

2010-07-13T04:56:00.001-07:00

It was my second pregnancy but I never thought he will come two weeks early. Wasn't ready for him and was so heart broken because his dad missed his birth. He was out of town on business. Everything went well and he is doing great Alhamdulillah. It was a very painful and long labour unlike my first. Wish all you ladies a good experience with your birth if you still are to go through it!

How to raise a happy child (ages 2 to 4)

2010-06-22T15:40:00.001-07:00

http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-raise-a-happy-child-ages-2-to-4_1492443.bc?scid=preschooler_20100622:4&pe=2UyoRfu

Just a month more!

2010-06-21T16:09:00.000-07:00

Yes everyone is excited. The grandparents are packing up to take the two day journey to be here when he is born Insha Allah. The sister is anxious. Almost everything is ready for you and them. OH the hospital bag needs to be packed up but most of the other stuff are ok. All clothes have been washed and dried. So I hope his grand entrance will not be too long and painful.

Waiting... waiting.... and waiting!

2010-06-21T15:28:00.001-07:00

The meaning of life becomes clearer when you have children!

2010-05-28T17:18:00.000-07:00

My dear dear boy

It has been a long time since I last blogged. I am exhausted almost all the time. If I am not I soon will be. I am beginning to not like cooking again and am wishing for things I don’t have access to. Silly me… the reality is I am almost there. Almost 33 weeks and I relies that leaves me with just seven more if I am lucky Insha Allah. I hope you hear Jannah talking to you as much as my reciting. She is excited and waiting for you. We all are. I cant imagine how life would be with two kids but I am happy that Umama and Appa are coming Insha Allah and its my only source of hope and relief for the moment. Keep upthe kicks andhang in there. Let us meet Insha Allah in the destined time… Love you loads always!

Mommy

Sesame Street - An all time favourite!

2010-04-06T13:53:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TjX5r37V0Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ9WiuJPnNA&feature=channel

The Dawn of Life!

2010-03-30T06:42:00.000-07:00

The story of birth is a common one. Life starts before birth. The womb makes a remarkable home for an unborn child. Then comes birth – a mesmerizing and miraculous process by which a baby begins the journey towards the world...

It was two days past my due date and I was spending time with my family. We were out all day and had come home weary. Suddenly I felt the burst of a balloon inside me! My water had broken and everyone in the house was as agitated as disturbed butterflies. I got dressed and we made our way to the hospital. I could sense the nervousness in everyone's voice. Calls were being made back and forth. Wishes, prayers, tears and joy are among the fading memories I have of that special day – December 9, 2007!

The pain increased hour by hour and it seemed as if my thoughts were momentarily on full stop. Then it started – the urge to push. It was like she was in a mighty hurry to meet everyone... she came into the world in such a rush that even the doctor could not make it on time. One loud scream and there she was – Alhamdulillah! Our wonderful daughter, the joy of our hearts was born. My husband was tearful and my mum was praying all the time. Reality hit me all at once... this was my child and I was now a mother- Masha Allah!

When I held her, it was hard to believe that she had finally arrived after months of anticipation and preparation. My husband recited the call to prayer in her ear and she was weighed. My mum and dad were overjoyed to be grandparents for the first time and my brothers were over the moon, too. When baby Jannah looked at me for the first time, it felt like it was worth the wait, the pain and the anxiety! Allah had blessed us with a beautiful healthy child and I could not have been more thankful. She is a lovable and adorable child growing fast into a little girl and a big sister. I miss her baby days and the sweet cries of a new born. Her birth story will always be special in my heart and I look forward to sharing it with her, when her time comes to be a mother Insha Allah!

When a child is born so is a mother!

Fathima Aashika Sulaiman
29 March 2010

Visit to the Dr., Healthy Weight, Diet and More!

2010-03-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

Just as much as little J, I too, dread the visit to the doctors. We had to take her in to check on her weight gain and do a test to check for anemia. Thank fully both turned out to be positive. She is a slow weight gainer and not anemic. She needs to gain a bit more but I'm thinking with all that running around activity how on earth she could store anything. Like me she is a very poor and fussy eater. Rice, noodles and bread are among her favourites but she does not eat vegetables and dislikes milk. The doc wants us to give her more milk instead of juice. She is picking up now and I hope it improves.

It is also believed that when you have feeding problems with your children you must feed poor children and do some charity. So yes Insha Allah I'm going to try that.

J was very brave at her finger prick and didn't cry. Dad held her while I distracted her with a book We have been asked to change our diet from rice to other alternatives because of the cause of diabetes increasing in the part of the worls where we are from. (Ok I need to do my research on this fact she stated) Rice is our staple food and we eat it almost every day missing may be just once or twice a week. But if it means prevention of a disease (which both mine and my husband's family suffer from) we are ready to change it. They want us to switch to whole grain. Thank fully J likes oats. We plan to switch to chapathi sand pasta. Whole wheat bread is good too. The only problem with these food is that they are rarely good tasting but that will have to be sacrificed for the sake of better health!

Until next time that's the progress on our 27 month old big sister to be!

When you have children

2010-03-09T14:25:00.001-08:00

When you have children
your whole life changes

They are the suns in your universe
the electricity in your nerves
the fuel in your veins
and every thought in your head

They are the lives you brought into the world
to take take care of and nourish
to love and to guide
and leave for the good of the world

They are the light of your life
and the love in your heart
They are everything you live for
The reason and meaning of every single thing

You cannot bare to see
the tears in their faces
you cannot bare to hear
their sorrowful cries
your heart skips a beat
if they ever even trip

the hopes they build in you
the fear they cause
the joy they bring
the laughter they spin

Children are the reason
life goes on!

How to feed children!

2010-03-08T12:31:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PoIeMnAHfc

Potty Training - There's no best time!

2010-03-04T09:49:00.000-08:00

Jannah is two years and two months. Juggling between the cooking, showering her, the vacuuming and the cleaning and everything else, toilet training is sure hard. First I'm training myself on how to train her. I asked a couple of friends and watched some videos while I had her sit there but she has nothing coming yet. As the old saying goes try, try and try again!

As usual I google up on tips...

Here is A video and http://www.babycenter.com/0_potty-training-what-works_4397.bc

Also see:

http://funpottytraining.com/

All the best!

And I have had no luck so far :(

My dearest darling angel - the second

2010-03-01T18:14:00.001-08:00

It is the second time we saw you. Today is an important day in our memories. Your big sister was running everywhere in the clinic and performing for everyone. When it dawned in Sri Lanka we let your grandparents know your gender. They were all very happy. Jannah was so tired she fell asleep and she hasn't had dinner so I am worried. I am waiting eagerly for grandma and grandpa to come so that she will have more company. She is very loving and already talking to you with her head near my belly. If you can hear a baby voice say “Assalamu alaikum baby” and a kiss, that's her. I bet she will be thrilled to have you around.

So my dear little fellow, five months old today we love you with all our hearts and we are looking forward to you joining our little family. Take us beyond the oceans and universe. Show us the pearls of your laughter and smiles.... join us in the journey of life... welcome to the world!

18+ ways to entertain your toddler without tv and videos

2010-03-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Washable Crayons and Paper make a good way of promoting writing skills in the little one. They can do it independently and will enjoy hours of fun. Give them a slate or a small white board if they tend to get bored with the same old things every other day!

Magnetic Alphabets on the Fridge Door: promote recognition of the letters and colours. Keep talking to them to find various letters in the pile and to make simple words on the fridge. A good entertainment source for your toddler while you cook

Water in a pool: In summer of course, they would absolutely love this but never leave them unattended and always check for temperature and water depth so that falling in it wont hurt them.

Snack time: leave them alone with their safe to eat snacks and make sure they are seated safe and hungry enough for a snack and some juice or milk. They would develop the skill to eat independently and this is something which will help you a lot during meal times if they are still not self feeders. Do not encourage eating while running around or playing. Teach them to respect their food at an early age.

Be close enough to see or hear any choking hazards if any.

They could also count their snacks before they eat it - another math lesson

Stickers: Some kids love pasting stickers on books and rough paper. You could make a story out of it and the messes are not hard to clean up.

Songs and dancing: They would absolutely love singing and dancing with you to rhymes and easy to pick up baby songs

Finger play and poems: Children love rhymes that have actions in them and they love it even more when you do it with them. A good entertainment method in the vehicle when you are on the go or even while shopping if they sit in a boring shopping cart.

Puppet shows out of soft toys: if you change your voice and speak like the animals along with the sounds they make they will eventually pick up all the names of the animals and make their sounds. If they hardly meet kids and people they befriend stuffed animals fast. If your child wants to take a stuffed animal to bed at night be careful that he or she does not have it too close or that you remove it when they fall asleep.

Bath time: Leave them under a running shower with bath toys. Do not leave them alone

Card board boxes: you can use them as a stage to get our toddler to perform on. They would also like to get in and hide there but if this the case make sure the box has some holes in case he/she decides to close it up for too long.

Creaming themselves: Toddlers would love it if you give them a dab of lotion in their hands and ask them to rub it on themselves instead of you doing it. Name their body parts as they do it and before long they would be able to name all parts from head to toe!

The good old story time: Children love colourful books. Tell them stories. Point to the pictures and ask them simple questions like ”What Color is his shirt” or “What is the teddy bear eating?” Before bed is a good time for books and prayers.

Make use of the Library: Make a habit of taking your little one to library. They learn that reading is an important part and will be interested by different books you bring home.

Parks and play areas: Children lobe a walk or run in the park. Swings and slides can keep them exercising and having for fun quite a good time. You could also get some time for yourself for a quiet picnic, some fresh air, a book or even some quick browsing. The fresh and air and sunlight is good for them and you too.

Kites, fans and spin wheels: Simple and home made toys are good enough to impress them too.

Puzzles: These can be home made too. The wooden puzzles with animals and shapes that you can make or buy are a great source of entertainment for kids of many ages.

Enjoy cuddling your little one: They love cuddles and kiss them. 10 on each cheek and counting loudly gives them love and lesson on math. Try it and they would love it.

Talk to them: Engage in serious conversations and develop their speaking skills. Use words and not bzby language so they pick up fast. When giving them a drink say “Delicious Juice” and when changing them say: “Your clothes are dirty and you need fresh ones”. Also ask them to do little chores “can you bring me the phone please?” or “close the door for mummy please”

Enjoy your little one and spend as much time as you can with them... they would be grown ups before you know it and no matter how much you want to you wont have a chance to do the things you could have done with them.

There are many more entertainment tools that you could add to this list and I would love to hear them too! Happy toddling!

Some useful videos

2010-02-27T16:53:00.000-08:00

pregnant mums

Mean Moms

2010-02-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

(As received)

Someday when my children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates a parent,
I will tell them, as my Mean Mom told me:
I loved you enough to ask where you were going,
with whom, and what time you would be home.

I loved you enough to be silent and let you
discover that your new best friend was a creep.

I loved you enough to stand over you for
two hours while you cleaned your room,
a job that should have taken 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to let you see anger,
disappointment, and tears in my eyes. Children
must learn that their parents aren't per fect..

I loved you enough to let you assume the
responsibility for your actions even when the
penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart.

But most of all, I loved you enough to say
NO when I knew you would hate me for it.

Those were the most difficult battles of all.
I'm glad I won them, because in the end you won, too.
And someday when your children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates parents,
you will tell them.

Was your Mom mean?

I know mine was.
We had the meanest mother in the whole world!
While other kids ate candy for breakfast,
we had to have cereal, eggs, and toast.

When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch,
we had to eat sandwiches.

And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was
different from what other kids had, too.

Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all times.
You'd think we were convicts in a prison.

She had to know who our friends were
and what we were doing with them.
She insisted that if we said we
would be gone for an hour, we would
be gone for an hour or less.

We were ashamed to admit it,
but she had the nerve to break
the Child Labor Laws by making us work.

We had to wash the dishes, make the beds,
learn to cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry,
empty the trash and all sorts of cruel jobs.

I think she would lie awake at night
thinking of more things for us to do.

She always insisted on us telling the truth,
the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
By the time we were teenagers,
she could read our minds and had
eyes in the back of her head.
Then, life was really tough!

Mother wouldn't let our friends
just honk the horn when they
drove up they had to come up to
the door so she could meet them.

While everyone else could date
when they were 12 or 13, we
had to wait until we were 16.

Because of our mother we missed out
on lots of things other kids experienced.

None of us have ever been caught
shoplifting, vandalizing other's
property or ever arrested for any
crime. It was all her fault.

Now that we have left home, we are all
educated, honest adults. We are doing our best
to be mean parents just like Mom was.

I think that is what's wrong with the world today.
It just doesn't have enough mean moms!

PASS THIS ON TO ALL THE
MEAN MOTHERS YOU KNOW.
(And Their Kids) :)

The little girl’s progress

2010-02-05T05:35:00.000-08:00

She is turning into being more like a girl than a baby each day, Masha Allah. Apart from counting, identifying shapes and colours, imitating animal sounds recognizing alphabets, J has also got quite attached to her jungle of stuffed animals. She seems to like them very much and wants to play with them quite often. She is also quite the talker and mess maker. As for keeping her occupied it varies from ridiing her car, doing her colouring, playing with water during her bath time, building up towers with her blocks, meals and a two hour nap time. Its too cold to take her to parks so we occasionally take her to the mall play area. She is also fond of reciting Quran which include sura fathiha, sura Iklas and the night prayer in addition to her mumbling assalamu alaikum, bismillah and alhamdulillah before and after meals and after sneezing. Shopping is not one of her favourite outings but nevertherless she just loves to tag along with mum and dad wherever they may be headed to. Her love for singing whether it be in the car or while she is playing seems to be overgrowing!

This year is going to be a big year for her Insha Allah. Big sister and all. The grandparents are going to fuss over her and spoil her while they are here but yeah she deserves it. With so little company she deserves all the attention she can get. So until next time these are the adventures of 2.2 year old little princess.

16 weeks

2010-02-03T06:22:00.000-08:00

Finally I get to see the mid wife in the new state. I thought that without my records it will be a problem to get things sorted out but they managed to see me and I finally had the old clinic fax the documents. Hearing the heartbeat is a reassurance each time and we can see the little guy or girl Insha Allah in about 4 weeks time to confirm the gender and check on the organs and development.

Yesterday and Today

Some days are good and some days are bad. So Yesterday was not good. The Nausea played up and the sore throat doesn’t help. Complaining doesn’t help either. Thankful that the husband comes home and takes care of dinner.

Today was much better. Even managed to make breakfast, clean up and vacuum just a bit. Going to get some rest now when the toddler is asleep!

Influencing the Behaviour of Muslim Youth and Their Parents

2010-01-29T06:50:00.000-08:00

Worth the read!

Baby Talk

2010-01-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

Jannah has begun to talk and it is wonderful to hear her. She has cooperated very well with the move so far. Her naps and daily routines are slowly picking up. Its hard to believe that two years and a month have passed so soon since she was born. J is also getting attached to her soft toys and sometimes wants to take them with her everywhere.

As for her sibling on the way she doesn't have much of a clue except she talks to him/her sometimes. Hopefully the baby will do fine until we settle in to the place and find a new doctor. And life goes on!

Why all the pain?

2010-01-25T11:47:00.000-08:00

The pain that comes with the pregnancy and birth only makes the child more valuable. When you work hard for something you value it more!

The Ultra Sound

2010-01-14T05:03:00.000-08:00

Thirteen weeks and two days today. The Ultra Sound went well yesterday except for the long wait at the clinic and Jannah getting very restless by the end of it al. He or she seems to be growing fine Alhamdulillah although my belly does not seem to show at all.

The relocation isn't helping at all. The packing and cleaning up wears me out in minutes. Sometimes its hard to stand for the 30 seconds that the microwave takes up to heat my milk for the cereal. I've been living off cereal, rotti and bread. Hardly take any fruits or vegetables. The good news is that at my last appointment whcih was three days ago I found I had gained 2 pounds. So that's a start! Waiting for the Nausia to die out to start a healthy diet. Feel bad for the baby and for myself. If mum was around I wouls never be able to get away with this poor diet of mine but I will have to rough it out until she comes Insha Allah!

So long then and if I am not sround here it means I am either stuck with loads of work or on my way to connecticut for another new beginning...

Adios!

Baby Moving?

2010-01-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

I am not sure whether i am 13 or 12 weeks pregnant. May be I will know at my next appointment. At the moment there is so much packing that is not getting done because I am not 100% well yet. Slowly trying to get the kitchen back in order and do some cooking every now and then. Hopefully these vomitting spells should fade away in a few weeks. Thankfully despite the side effects, Zofran is working for me. Feel bad about taxing the husband with all the cooking last week. As of this week I hope to officially close off the kitchen. Moving interstate with a baby moving inside and a toddler that needs full time attention can be hard. The thought of turning 26 tomorrow, or today according to the time of my birthplace doesn't help either. I'm growing older and the grave is getting closer. Hope Allah accepts our prayers and give us Jannah Insha Allah!

Taking one breath at a time!

2009-12-22T12:15:00.000-08:00

The past few week have been a roller coaster ride. The throwing up became so bad that I lost 6 pounds in a week. The iv drip finally helped and the medication is finally working. Allah has his way of helping. The thought of packing and moving again doesn't help very much either. Every day comes with its own challenges. One day its the juice stains on the carpet and the next day its the shopping errands and chores for the new team mate in the husbands project.

As for hearing the baby's heart beat last week – it was the only uplifting experience in a very long time. It seemed far away but strong. Cant wait for the ultra sound in two weeks!

J's 2nd

2009-12-09T02:20:00.000-08:00

And we did nothing

7 weeks

2009-12-04T13:15:00.000-08:00

I am able to eat either very little or nothing at all. Being over sensitive to the smells make cooking a daunting task. The haunting memories of the first pregnancy don't help either. Jannah has been moody today and soothing her is a real job. I know that things will take a turn for the worst in the next few days. I just must learn how to cope on my own.

First visit to the Midwife

2009-11-19T18:14:00.001-08:00

I am beginning to connect with this new life inside of me. Its amazing how a strange sense of unconditional love appears from no where. Jannah will always be special because she was the first but this baby has come on his/her own special timing when things are turbulent. Its like the thought of the baby is the only peace of mind and reassurance that everything is going to be ok as it always has been. I hope all goes well for us by the mercy of Allah – almighty!

So I have to do all the blood work and regular painful procedures which I wish I could run away from. I think they are totally unessential because man has been reproducing from time memorial but nevertheless I want to do whatever is best for the baby and myself. So here I am gritting my teeth and fearing my next appointment with all my heart!

Baby number two - Insha Allah!

2009-11-18T22:19:00.000-08:00

Jannah turns two next month and this was totally unexpected but what Allah wills is always for the best. Jannah might soon be a big sister. We are happy to have baby number two on the way. We are thankful to Allah for whatever he plans for us.

So if my calculations are correct I am only 4 weeks pregnant and I don't have any of the symptoms yet. I am glad Jannah will have some company. She is getting naughtier by the day and needs to get out of her babyhood!

She is 23 months today....

2009-11-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

but the last weekend was a roller coaster ride for me. It was the first time I left jannah with friends and not family all by her self for a very long duration. Since we still haven't tried pre-school, Jannah is pretty much around her mum and dad all the time. I think that I was more afraid than her.

The first day - Friday - went ok when she was with my neighbour and dear friend for about 4 hours during which she had her down moments but was mostly ok. Then on Saturday we left her with the baby sitters because we had to be at the seminar. She was mostly ok but utterly bored and we took her out during the breaks she was not happy at all to go back in. She was just so bored!

Hard as it was for me I had to sneak out of the Masjid and back into my seminar which was about 2.5 to 3 minute walk from the Masjid where Jannah spent all 8 hours in. Then on Sunday when we took her back to the baby sitters she cried so much. I could hardly concentrate thinking of how hurt she must be. So I kept praying to Allah to help her cope.

To give her a change I thought we will keep her with another dear friend who offered to watch her for a little while. She was already a mum of three including a new born and I hated having to give her an additional burden but I thought that one hour or two hours in a different environment which was more like home will help Jannah.

Apparently she had been a good girl, not causing any trouble. When we picked her at 3:30pm, she seemed quite happy Masha Allah (and I was too, finally) but the sad part was that little did she know that she was to be in the masjid again with the baby sitters till 8pm at least.

Again, when we left her there, I sneaked out hoping and praying that she will be ok and Alhamdulillah the sitters told me that she was much better than she was, that morning. I was so relieved. She kissed the baby sitters good bye and we finally came home after a long day. The Seminar was life changing for us and it brought out a whole new perspective of how we are going to look at the Quran again! I am to blog about its details here Insha Allah

Thank you Lilly and Sadia - May Allah bless and reward you always!

I am also grateful to the organizers for arranging baby sitters for us to keep our children safe and give us the peace of mind! May Allah reward your efforts!

As for Jannah I think she is ready to go to preschool soon Insha Allah. I wish we had tried it earlier but Insha Allah I am now sure she will be just fine and do better than I did on my first day at school!

How soon they grow!

Oh to be a child!

2009-11-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

Oh to be a child, so careless and carefree, to run like nobody would watch and to sing like nobody would hear, oh to be a child, so dear!

My poor baby!

2009-10-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

when your baby is sick your world turns upside down!

My angel and a fever!

2009-10-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

It is hard to imagine that I have not written about Jannah for the last two months. She sadly got sick twice. Once because I cought a bad throat infection and now because her dad had the seasonal flu. It is sad to see her eyes weak and feel her skin hot; to hear painful coughs - I hope she gets well soon. I hope we all do! She is 22 months and her immunity that came from me is slowly dying out. She is active and playful all the time and she is growing fast Masha Allah! I have a lot to be thankful for and just a little to be worried about. Oh My Lord, please take care of her and us all for we have eachother and you alone!

Ramadan came and went. It was agood month filled with spiritual inspiration, the remeberance of allah, charity and prayer!

"Aash Sul Every phase rough or joyful will pass; Every hair black or blond will turn grey. What remains is the heart and the emotion of love, the sweet memories of yesterday and the hope that tomorrow will be still better!
" - Aashika Sulaiman

About a father's love for his son!

2009-08-31T05:41:00.000-07:00

This may bring you tears!

20 months in 2 days

2009-08-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

My Dear Jannah

All the sweet things I write about you on this blog are true. But it is also true that sometimes i get very angry with you and the things you do. Whenever I take a pen and make some notes you have to have it and when i spend too long at the computer you spank the key board and even take out some of the keys to get my attention. The number zero is out and seven and nine are almost falling out. Dad bought you a pop up book which you find interesting and tear out. I always get you the hard board ones. you like books. you love to scribble on paper and sometimes on the couch, bed sheets and blinds. Keeping the house neat and tidy is therefore a very hard job for me. you take your toys all over the house and i have to tidy up after you all the time. When you are done eating you like to turn your plate over and spill all the leftovers on your tray and on the floor. You just love to play with water and i dont really mind that but I hate it wshen you play with the water that you are supposed to drink. You wont let me comb your curly locks and you hate any hair clip or ornaments that I put on your hair. You take it right away and throw it off. sometimes i don't have the patience so I just shout back at you and you seem very sad. When we go to the mall you want to run instead of sitting in your stroller and dad and I get embarrased and angry. We take you to the park and play areas every week. We take you the kids programs at the library and we let you run in safe places but you never get tired. You can stay up till past 12 if we are at a dinner party. Woah!

But Jannah, you are literally our universe. Everything we do, whether it be a trip to the grand canyons or the July 4th fireworks we wonder whether you will be ok with it. We must purchase a house, we must save for your education, we must buy you those cute little toys and outfits, we must make a cd of your videos, we must teach you the Quran, we must show you love and respect all human beings irrespective of their culture and religion.... all the things we must do for you extend even beyond our lifetime... But Jannah one day there may come a day when you get angry with us, when you think that every thing we do for you is just our duty, where we may be too old for you to discuss your problems with us.

When the mysteries of life baffle you
when the choice between tv programs and Hijab confuse you
When questions start popping in your head

Always know that

It will be natural and when that happens remember that I am trying to deal with new things too. It wont be as easy as cleaning up after you or running behind you while combing your hair. It will be another challenge for me and I only hope that when you think of all your best friends I will be in the top of that list!

In all honesty

2009-06-23T19:50:00.000-07:00

In all honesty (not for you to read Jannah ;)

Sometimes

to be able to have to not be worried all the time that she is not eating bugs...
to be able to shop in the malls without having to run after her
to be able to sleep without being woken to her sounds
to be able to got out and sit down and have a quiet dinner without cutlery on the floor and ketchup on the table cloth
to be able to wear a t shirt on a single day without a chocolate milk stain...
to be able to relax under the shades of a tree
to be able to not have to vacuum three times a day

.... sometimes its just a dream, a luxury but having a child in your life gives your life meaning and completes it so nevermind the stains and spills, the tantrums and the yells, the running and the catching.... she is the one that makes us smile through all of it... she is the meaning of our lives.

18 months

2009-06-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

As the memories begin to fade away of giving birth to jannah, bringing her home on a cold winter night, feeding her, her first solid meal and leaving her birthplace; she begins to add to our albums a whole new world of life and energy.

So she loves to run and to talk mainly with strangers. All her naughtiness together makes me one mad hatter. If you saw me running around like I'm crazy, I'm probably running after her hoping that she wont come back with a scraped knee or bruised fore head that she is barely aware of.

so as you can imagine I'm living on the edge of the seat and am on pins every other time that the little monster is not asleep.

Almost 16 months

2009-04-02T15:57:00.000-07:00

Among the very many sweet stunts that the little magician can perform are:

Cover her eyes the moment she hears "Where is Jannah?" and open them in surprise with a cute "aw"
Bow down at the words "Allahu Akbar" and perform sajda with her head on the ground
Show her nose
stamp her feet for the song "if you're happy and you know..."
Wave and sat Hi and bye to evryone she meets.
Eat her food by herself
Kick her baloons around
Scribble on her Aqua doodle water book
kiss mum, dad, dolls, soft toys and anything that has eyes, nose and mouth
dance to anything musical
run like crazy!

15 Months - Eat it up!

2009-03-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have a new mission in life and that is to be able to get a solid meal into jannah. She does all the lovely things like "Oh Oh" and clapping her hands everytime she hears the words "good girl" or saying a cute "ma'ma" in her baby voice making it very hard for us to be tough with her. but eating is a big "no no"!

Here are some tips for those who are in the same boat as I:

Babies dont like baby food. so try a variety of healthy grown up's food.... dont fully mash it... babies like to bite up things. (Pay close attention - choking hazard)
Babies love to use their hands: try giving him/her a plate with some food broken up like bread, rice or even noodles.
Distract him/her with something they like watching on tv or youtube.... may be another baby eating will triiger some apetite.
Say "good job" everytime he/she take a big mouth and clap and cheer
Take a break. Read something or give them a sip of water.
Pretend to feed others including soft toys and dolls (this wont work for long)
Reward good food habits with juice or a sweet. Do not give it until you know they had a stomach full
Use a high chair
talk to the baby, eat, sing, do whatever it takes to get him/her wanting to eat with you

The Little Runner Up!

2009-02-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

The Sun was out. The snow was melting. I thought I'll take my little girl out for a walk so we can enjoy the weather and get some pictures outdoors but she thought I took her out for a run. She ran like I have never seen before. Too fast for me to even catch. And God I realised it was my first time alone with a toddler and I was out of breath. She was no match for me and even the fierce wind blowing in her face couldn't stop her.

Is she turning naughty? Am I going to have discipline issues? The answer awaits me as the little runner grows up faster than I can catch up!

My 14 month old girl!

2009-02-10T09:00:00.003-08:00

Every moment spent watching you grow is a blessing and a treasure.

15 Tips to Raising Great Children

2009-02-05T07:43:00.000-08:00

Children are easily influenced by their surroundings. These days, it is extremely difficult to expose our children to an ideal Islamic environment given the influences from media, friends and even other members of the family.

With television, radio, Internet and forms of media mostly touting un-Islamic values, it is up to parents and adults close to the children to set the correct example.

It is impossible to shield our children from all the negative forces that can shape their minds and, ultimately, their behavior.

However, by our own example and showing them better options, we can set them on the true path, which is to obey the commandments of Allah (swt) and our Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

Here are some tips you may want to follow in helping your children grow up with Islamic values.

Start by teaching them the importance of Worshipping only Allah: The best thing any Muslim parent could ever teach their children is to emphasize, from the day they can comprehend, that Allah (swt) is One and no one is worthy of worship except Allah (swt). This is the fundamental message of our Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and it is our key to Paradise.
Treat them kindly: Kindness begets kindness. If we were kind to our children, they in turn would show kindness to others. Our Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was the best example in being kind to children.
Teach them examples o Here are some tips you may want to follow in helping your children grow up with Islamic values of Muslim heroes: Instead of Batman or Superman, tell them about real heroes such as Abu Bakr, Umar ibn Khattab, Othman bin Affan, Ali bin Abi Talib and others. Tell them how Muslim leaders brought a real peaceful change in the world and won the hearts of Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Let children sit with adults: It is preferable for children to be among adults, especially when listening to Islamic lectures. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would often put children in the front row when he spoke to the people.
Make them feel important: Consult them in family matters. Let them feel they are important members of the family and have a part to play in the growth and well being of the family.
Go out as a family: Take family trips rather than allowing your children to always go out only with their friends. Let your children be around family and friends from whom you want them to pick up their values. Always remember that your children will become who they are around with most of the time. So, watch their company and above all give them YOUR company.
Praise them: Praise is a powerful tool with children, especially in front of others. Children feel a sense of pride when their parents' praise them and will be keen to perform other good deeds. However, praise must be limited to Islamic deeds and deeds of moral value.
Avoid humiliation: Similarly, do not humiliate them in front of others. Children make mistakes. Sometimes, these mistakes occur in their efforts to please the parents. If you are unhappy with your children, tell them in private.
Sports: The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged sports such as swimming, running and horse riding. Other sports that build character and physical strength are also recommended, as long as the children maintain their Islamic identity, wear appropriate clothes and do not engage in unnecessary mixing.
Responsibility: Have faith in their abilities to perform tasks. Give them chores to do in line with their age. Convince them that they are performing an important function and you will find them eager to help you out again.
Don't spoil them: Children are easily spoiled. If they receive everything they ask for, they will expect you to oblige on every occasion. Be wise in what you buy for them. Avoid extravagance and unnecessary luxuries. Take them to an orphanage or poor area of your city once in a while so they can see how privileged they are.
Don't be friends: It is common in the West for parents to consider their children as friends. In Islam, it doesn't work that way. If you have ever heard how friends talk to each other, then you will know that this is not how a parent-child relationship should be. You are the parents, and they should respect you, and this is what you should be teaching them. The friendship part should be limited to you and them keeping an open dialog so they can share their concerns with you and ask you questions when they have any.
Pray with them: Involve them in acts of worship. When they are young, let them see you in act of salaah (salat). Soon, they would be trying to imitate you. Wake them up for Fajr and pray as a family. Talk to them about the rewards of salaah so that it doesn't feel like a burden to them.
Emphasize halaal: It is not always good to say "this is haraam, that is haraam". While you must educate them on haraam things, Islam is full of halaal and tell your children to thank Allah (swt) for the bounties He has bestowed on them- not just for food and clothes. Tell them to be thankful for having eyes that see, ears that hear, arms and legs and, the ultimate blessing, Islam in their hearts.
Set an example: As parents, you are the best example the children can have. If you talk to your parents rudely, expect your children to do the same to you. If you are disrespectful to others, your children will follow too. Islam is filled with Divine advice on the best ways to bring up your children. That makes it an obligation upon parents to be good Muslims so their children will try to emulate them. If you don't take Islam seriously, neither will your children. It goes back to our third point, which is to give them Islamic heroes. As a parent, you should be their number one hero.

From: Shehnaz Abdul Kader

2009-01-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

I cant remember when I last blogged about her or what it was about. Now that 2009 has made its way through... things fall back into place and life goes on rolling out the odds and evens...

J is turning into a runner. J is learning to obey and respond to praises and scoldings. She is able to pick and choose her favourites. Loud noises scare her. She immitates everything we do like combing hair, brushing teeth. putting on socks and even talking on the phone.

Sometimes I feel so sorry to watch her bored and lonely wondering what to do with herself. I wish she had some company. I am so not ready for another kid but she seems like she needs someone to play with. and she needs to start sleeping through the night... She did a few times but I really haven't had a full night's sleep since she was born and I could really use some.

She is also quite the singer and rocker! Her favourite is the House theme song, mickey mouse club house and the upsi daisy nasheed... Her travelling blues were miraculously cured by the cd.

Adios for now.... little j is here!

From baby to toddler

2009-01-09T05:49:00.000-08:00

The little explorer

walks all over her little world

tripping every now and then

engrossed in her martian language

and two similar objects in each hand

The lovely little footsteps

and sweet angelic voice

Hide and seek with dad

catches with mum

kiss or two for her little pink doll

Balloons to chase

and trains to roll

ribbons for her hair

and sweets for her taste

she is growing away

and soon...

sadly...

she'll be going away...

Time doesn't fly cos it's trapped in a rocket!

2008-12-24T09:35:00.000-08:00

Last year around this time my parents were here and I had just had a baby. Life had taken a new twist. Challenged by parenthood and living in a foreign and stranged land that had four seasons I thought there wasn't much to look forward to.

Today... I feel like with my little family I have come a long way. We have been living all by ourselves with no help since may. the baby has been doing fine Masha Allah... my cooking has greatly improved... we are comfortable hosting large gatherings, having overnight guests with no fuss, and even making long road trips with a baby and her elderly great grandma and I feel like I''ve achieved much more in the past few months than ever before. When my parents and brother left me here and went back I felt as though my whole world had fallen part but thank fully with bru and little J and the help of the Almighty we have made it a long way... and as they say "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step!"

Here is the note I wrote to my family after they left:

To a Very Dear Family

Six months ago on a cold winter Friday afternoon, you entered this house to be welcomed by our cheer and biriyani from the mosque. The house was colourful and full of life and sound, but today it is bear with a deafening silence that I cannot explain in words.

The kitchen is empty and your bedroom is gloomy with the blinds drawn down. Mum has not only taught me to do things efficiently and economically but also prepared food for the next week or two until I adjust into the loneliness. I have never missed home so much before. Izada aunty left me a kind note on skype and then called later to check on us. Ahsen was there sharing his many words of wisdom with me. Shafi periappa chatted with me till late night. Barushan and Jannah were around with me always. Fea datha reassured me saying that I will meet them soon and yeah with each day I will get closer to seeing you all again Insha Allah. Even umama called from Sri Lanka and advised us. All this made the pain easier. But it will never completely go away. A comfortable life with all needed facilities, the pool, the gym, the flowers and green of the garden - but none of that can replace the joy that only family brings. I will be so lonely now… Just Jannah and I in the mornings. She is sleeping in her crib right now as I type this and I fear to leave her alone to go shower as there is now no one that would run to her the moment she makes a twist or turn. Dada, I am greatly indebted to you, to the kindness you have shown and the lessons you have thought me during the stay here. You even made tea, barushan's breakfats and washed dishes which was much much more than what a dad should be doing. Mama and dada thanks for helping me to fill Jannah's Sri Lankan citizenship form and get everything in order. We decided that we will send it next week Insha Allah in case we want to travel during the weekend and may need our passports. Aadil, the vacuum cleaner and stationery remind me of you. Should I mention the TV also? I don't even feel like watching it without you around. Thanks so much for helping with throwing out the garbage, washing the bathrooms and carrying the stroller and car seat in and out all the time everywhere we went. I hope you will take good care of mum, dad and yourself as you are the only one there with them now. Don't let mum and dad worry over you. I know you are going through a difficult period in your life. Trust me, it will go away soon. There are a million more things that you all have done for me and one mail cannot cover it all…!

Ashen, as you close your eyes in a land faraway dealing with the everyday campus issues, books and exams I'm wishing that all of us will be able to meet soon Insha Allah. Growing up together and being so faraway from one another is hard. Hope the parcel with goodies made its way without much of a problem. We were kind of worried that it may have got lost because of the small mistake in the address. Although you were not here with us, your turn wont be very faraway. Your presence was very much felt everyday thanks to msn and chat on your phone.

Again, dear family your kindness has meant so much to me in the past half year. I am sorry if I have hurt or wronged you all in anyway. Sometimes it's when we part that we realize how much we take for granted. Here's thanking you all…! It's time now for me to sale on with this little family of mine. We will be ok Don't worry. It can't be rocket science. Everyone does it. But yeah… we'll manage somehow. As I take to my flight with my new wings, please pray that Allah will help us all through the journey and when we meet again Insha Allah let's rock as we always do!

Salaams

Aashika

2008-12-15T16:03:00.000-08:00

2008-12-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

What my dad wrote about me!

2008-12-11T16:25:00.000-08:00

I will always be their baby! :)

Vaccinations and Tests! Again!

2008-12-11T15:53:00.000-08:00

I know I promised myself I’m closing up this blog. It was supposed to be just from conception to baby’s first year. But today was Jannah’s vaccination again and she was Masha Allah very brave. Here’s just a few lines to wrap it up!

She, my pride hardly even cried

She waved once she was done

Almost like it was fun

I’m happy it went well

She does have a strong will

Oh thank you Allah

For the blessings on her!

2008-12-09T06:28:00.000-08:00

For you its just another day but for me its a milestone. Every step you take is a symbol of achievement and sucess even if be little!

Jannah turns 1

2008-12-09T05:16:00.000-08:00

I recall my very first appointment with the gynecologist… my fears… my hopes… A million words could not describe the feelings running through a very new mum to be…

The day Jannah was born is still fresh in my mind. I don’t think it will ever wilt away. The ride to the hospital with the broken water and snowy roads. The wheel chair ride up to the room… the cramps and the delivery… then her cry… It was such an amazing experience.

Life gave me a new reason to live for… and even though I had a really difficult pregnancy unable to keep down any food I still think I can do it all over again… Because no matter how hard it is, the reward is great and beyond what anyone can express! The joy is unimaginable until its felt!

So..

Happy Birthday Dear Darling

And many more wonderful years to come!

You will always be special in the hearts that love you

You will always be our sweet angel and cuddly baby

Smile at the storms that life throws at you

Ignore the pain – it's not worth it!

Reach for the highest of heavens

And be the best you can be!

Thank you dear Jannah for making our life Whole!

The step of life

2008-12-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

Jannah takes her first step

It was another one of those cold winter mornings and J was around with her toys and cheerful smiles when I suddenly noticed her standing unsupported. I never thought it would make me so happy to see her take the first step of life on her own. Well, although he she had no clue what mum’s giggling and cooing was all about, she played along quite well clapping for herself as I cheered. So there she is on her own now….! Trying to find her own little space in the world.

A baby is an amazing miracle of life. An you really don’t know what that means until you have your own….! The whole world takes shape and life has a new meaning… a new reason to live each day to the fullest. J this first year with you has been wonderful and I’m looking forward to many more… Your first word! Your first hop! Your first jump! Your first day to school!

Wrapped in all the emotion is the uncertainilty of what the future holds for you? Will you be a good person and do us proud? Would you be the angel you are now?

Lets wait for time to tell its own tale!

Charles Darwin in sight

2008-12-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

First they are in water

A single cell dividing fast

Then they are in land

Just looking around

Then they start pulling themselves on their tummies

And soon the creepers have turned into two legged crawlers

The crawlers on all fours then become climbers

Then the supported walker…

And finally the independent, confident young strider

Marching away

Running into the invisible

Getting everyone to chase

Doesn’t this tell a story of evolution?

A Year in a week!

2008-12-01T06:36:00.000-08:00

It’s been a beautiful year!

So your babyhood is done! I remember the last few days of my pregnancy last year with my family. My last few nights of uninterrupted sleep and achy belly kicks. Fears about the birth, reading up on baby care methods and watching tv programs and videos on what to expect. It doesnt seem like long ago.

We were so anxious about her arrival; predicting her looks and preparing her room. Shopping for those cute little outfits and having the bag ready for hospital.

Today she's a week away from turning one. Unaware of her own little self she creates an atmosphere of cheer and smiles wherever she is... from strangers in the supermarket to cuddly old dad. J has left her footprints in quite a few hearts and she akes her way into childhood, combing mums hair and feeding dad chips i cannnot wait nor can I imagine to see what more impressions she will make. Will her life be filled with every little good thing we want for her? Will she be happy and rock herself to sleep? Will she want her room painted in pink? The answer my friend will come with time and only time can tell!

2008-11-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

My dear dear baby, I’m so sorry

2008-11-26T10:58:00.001-08:00

I guess the hardest thing for a mum is to watch her baby sick and worse yet not being able to do much about it. J has been met by fever, a runny nose and a very painful sounding cough. She seems like she needs to be around us more and refuses any form of food and drink. Well… holding her all day long and all night long I can do but I cant watch her exerting that little body to cough and her eyes droopy and almost like in pain. The cold don’t seem to lighten up the heat of her head and it feels so sad to watch her lifeless and ill and worst - unhappy. It’s just a cold, cough and fever but it always seems like more because she’s just a little baby and she cant even say that her throat hurts or her head’s heavy…!

So all I can do is sing and pray and hope that she gets better soon… I want my smiley, naughty and happy baby back…

“They grow up fast!”

2008-11-18T08:40:00.000-08:00

In two days I heard it four times – “They grow up fast” so I thought I’ll write…

Sometimes I think about all those things I want to do – scrabble, writing, uninterrupted reading, cooking, working in an office, teaching and then I look at you. You really wont be around for long, will you? In an year you’ll be off to school and you’d want to play on your own or with other mates. Umma and dada will be merely spectators ha? Then you’ll go off to college and leave us alone home all day. I’ll be thinking about you and you’ll be thinking about millions of other things that do not include me. And then you’ll marry away and go for good and then I’ll be thinking I wish I had more time with her…. You'll leave us alone to grow old on our own!

So here is it Jan, This is your time… Bug me all you want and hug me all you want. I am for you and you will be for me just till you grow up and are able to change your own clothes and wash your own self and feed your own food… just till then…. Let me enjoy you and feel free to annoy me. Pull on my hair and nibble on my clothes, spill juice everywhere and tatter the newspapers; and when I’m cross, give me that awfully cute innocent smile which makes me laugh…

For I know “They grow up fast!”

11 months, going on 12

2008-11-13T13:25:00.000-08:00

So she is almost an year. Does not walks without support. blabbers quite a lot. Hates having a teeth brush and often confuses her hair brush with the tooth brush. She eats rice and adult foods but in very limited quantities. Doesn't play by herself for too long. Needs mum's and dad's attention. Hates being in the crib or stroller or car seat. Loves new faces and making friends. Looooves typing. Yeah that's why my blogs are so short and rarely ever sweet.Ok she's pulling on me. got to go!

10 months done

2008-11-05T19:09:00.000-08:00

When she looks into my eyes with hope and expectation, I want to give her the world. I want to hold her in my arms and swing her to sleep singing her favourite lullaby. Crawling to the door she cries every morning to see her dad go. I feel so sorry. Consoling her is hard. Cooking and cleaning even worse. But I do my best everyday for the three of us to be happy together. I look forward to her growing up and running around and helping her with her homework and making pretty girly things for her. There is so much to look forward to and hope for. I remember when I was pregnant I tried to imagine her face and what she would look like. God gave me much btter than hoped for or expected. From getting love J is slowly converting to giving love as she smothers us with her kisses and loving smiles. She is lovelier than anything you can imagine and her personality shines for miles away like the sun’s rays.

J waits for her daddy at the window
And mum makes tea
Everyday is the same
But every day is special
A few falls and cries
But smiles in plenty

She is indeed the sunshine of my life!

ten months

2008-10-23T17:55:00.001-07:00

As Jannah crawls at full speed and my drivin skills significantly improve I feel that I have adapted well to life alone. I have told myself that our lives will be full of partings and good byes. it's a fact of life that i just need to get used to living with. Jannah - to every parent their child is special but to me you feel especially special. Everywhere we take you we get compliments about how friendly you are and happy you look. I fear the evil eyes for you. You wave at all the strangers and feel totally comfortable with new faces. It's amazing how you win the lime light even when there are many other kids and babies around. To us, you our first but from others who have experienced many babies they keep telling us how lovely you are and it all seems too good to be true.

The Centre of the universe

2008-10-23T16:02:00.000-07:00