Keyboard's just a'clicking...

The Warning...

2008-02-25T09:59:00.002-05:00

I just had the greatest weekend. Spent most of the weekend vomiting with body aches. Yesterday, I went to the doctor (gotta love medical insurance) and got myself checked out. After being poked, pinched, having blood taken out of me, and going in a cup, it was determined that I have gastritis. There are a few causes, but mine, most likely, is due to my poor eating habits. After thinking about it, I have had shooting pains in my stomach that went ignored for the past couple of weeks. I tend to believe that Allah (swt) gives us small warnings and if you don't take heed to them, the ones that follow are a bit harsher. And, thus begins the change in my diet. I have to bid a fond farewell to Wendy's and an Adios to Taco Bell(sniff). Hmmm...what is there to eat? LOL...just kidding. I really have to start taking better care of myself. I'm not getting any younger.

Funny doctor story:

My doctor was an older Muslim man, go figure. As he asks me about my health, he asked me if I was married, and I told him no. Then he takes a breath, waits a few seconds, and asks me, "Is there any possibility that you are pregnant?" while lifting one eyebrow. I responded, "ummm...no". He smiled and took a breath of relief...LOL. He was even a bit happier when my test results showed I wasn't lying. I was cracking up on the inside.

Just Frustrated

2008-02-18T23:11:00.002-05:00

I'm a bit frustrated and I can't tell the reader why. When I get like this, I always know that I can find comfort in laying out my prayer rug, opening my Qur'an and reading the words of Allah (swt). The great thing about that is when I just open the Qur'an and read, Allah (swt) always directs me to a passage that pertains to my current situation, and I always feel better. Unfortunately, I'm not able to do that right now since Aunt Flo is visiting, which adds to my frustration. So, what are my other options? Sleep, I guess...since it's so late.

Reclaiming My Blog

2008-02-18T16:36:00.007-05:00

I feel that I have been neglecting my blog, but there has been so much going on. I hope to stop using that excuse one day, but for now, it still stands. So, today, February 18, 2008, I reclaim my duty to blog on a regular basis...well, at least three times a week. I don't even know if anyone reads this anymore, so I may be writing for myself.

I am entering my sixth week of teaching the toddlers. Can you believe it's been that long already? I apologize that I haven't been here to write some of my funny classroom stories like I'd promised, but I intend to make it up to you all. All in all, I LOVE it! Between dancing around, feedings, diapers and pull-ups, wiping runny noses, readings, eating the fake food they cook for me in the kitchen area, playing, and trying to complete art activities while trying to stop them from putting sand, paint, clay, and crayons in their mouths, the day goes by extremely fast. When I sat back and took a look, I realized that I only have 2 hours with them everyday for activities. Morning meeting begins at 9:30 am. By 10:00 am, we have to stop whatever we're doing to have morning snack. They eat lunch at 11:30 am, which wraps up the day since they nap after they eat. With children that young, we have to let them sleep as long as they'd like and can't wake them, so most of them wake up between 2:30 pm and 2:45 pm. As they get up, they have afternoon snack and go to the bathroom. Once we finish all that, it's already 3:15 pm, and school is over, although most of them stay for aftercare. I leave at 3:30 pm...and that's my day.

Funny story from last week:

I have this thing I do with the kids that they LOVE. I stretch my legs out in front of me and at least four of them get on my "train". I bounce them up and down (serious leg work out) and sing two songs that I made up. After weeks of this, they've caught on to the songs and now sing them with me. When I'm done, I shout "All off", and the children get up. On this particular day, Toddler A sat in the front of the "train". As I shouted, "All off", Toddler B crawled over to Toddler A and hit her on her head. Now, Toddler B has started this new hitting trend in the class, not to be mean, but I believe he's beginning to understand cause and effect and uses hitting to experiment with this scientific theory. So, when Toddler A got hit, she began to cry (well, she began to make noise...not a tear in sight). So, I asked Toddler A to come to me and tell me what happened (mind you, I witnessed the entire thing). Toddler A then put her hand to her chest and stated VERY CLEARLY, "Mis Nees, he pinched my nipple." I KID YOU NOT!

If you were entertained by that one, I have many more...stay tuned.

Teacha Neesa Part II

2008-01-08T09:09:00.000-05:00

Alhamdulillah, it is official...I am once again a teacher! After a LONG process, the DC Public School System has found me worthy of taking part in shaping the minds of our future leaders. I am truly excited. I don't officially start until Monday, but I got the word yesterday that everything is official. I'm sure I'll have lots of funny stories to share, so stay tuned.

My Intentions for 2008

2007-12-31T10:21:00.000-05:00

Goals for 2008 (the last year of my twenties):

1. I am making my intention to make Hajj. Insh'Allah, I will be invited by Allah (swt) to perform the Hajj this upcoming year. I am making preparations now to do so, but we all know that I plan and Allah (swt) plans, so if it is His will that I make Hajj this year, then I will be ever so willing to do so.

2. Insh'Allah, I will continue my studies at Trinity University in an effort to complete my degree by the Fall of 2009. I pray that I will continue to work hard towards A's and not A-'s (that is if they can be avoided by any means beyond my own...sorry, I'm still a little bitter about that).

3. I pray that I become a better person all around...more patient, more giving, more considerate, more active, more loving, more aware, more willing, more faithful, more self-less, more joyous, more understanding, more open (when necessary)...just more of everything that is beneficial for me and those around me...

4. I pray that I FINALLY get back into the classroom. This entire process has been soooooo slow. I keep seeing the light, but I feel like this is an extremely long tunnel.

5. I guess I should put something in here about finding a mate, but the way I see it, that's up to Allah (swt) since He is the one who puts love between the hearts of men. So if it is my time, then I shall welcome whoever he may be with open arms. In the meantime, I'll focus on the other things on this list.

6. After reading number 5, I pray that I become more positive about the whole finding my mate process :).

7. I intend to read more. I used to read a LOT. I've gotten away from that and need to start again.

8. As I get closer to 30, my tolerance for crap gets shorter and shorter....nothing much I can do about that, so I just pray that the crap I encounter in 2008 is cut to 1/4 of what it was in 2007.

9. I pray that I meet new and exciting people who can only be beneficial to me and vice versa...

10. I pray that I have fewer moments where I believe that this "good-girl thing" is seriously overrated...

Well, these are all I can think of at the moment. If I think of some more, I'll just come back and add them. I pray that all the readers have a wonderful new year and meet the goals they have set for themselves. I'm off to enjoy this last day of 2007...

Happy 19th Birthday, Marlotte!!

This good girl thing...

2007-12-30T22:13:00.000-05:00

is seriously overrated.....

Update

2007-12-25T07:31:00.000-05:00

I've been missing in action from this blog, and I truly apologize. Life is just big fun right now and I haven't been able to stop and write. So, here is my update:

I have successfully completed my first semester of grad school. I was a little disappointed because one of my teacher's gave me an A- which put my GPA at 3.85 instead of 4.0. That really pissed me off. She is known at the school as one of those hard teachers who doesn't give A's to students. I just hate when teachers don't grade fair when they are trying to keep their reputation of being a hard teacher. Really sucks cause I worked my BUTT off in that class. The thing that really sucks is she teaches another class I have to take. I'm praying for a new teacher by that time.

I went to visit a great friend of mine in TX. I truly enjoyed my time there with her and her family. The one thing I love about friends living in different states is it gives you a reason to travel. I miss ya'll and vow to return to ride those rollercoasters!!!

I have the day off today due to the Christmas holiday. I had yesterday off as well. This is my mini-vacation before school starts again. I'm ready for semester #2.

Tiffany & Co.

2007-12-07T09:57:00.001-05:00

I got my first Tiffany & Co. gift! It's going to be a wonderful year! The blue box and white ribbon has entered my life and I am toooooooooooooo happy! Oh, yes, this is going to be a great year!

My co-workers threw me a surprise birthday party at work. They all pitched in and got me a Tiffany & Co. gift card. It came in the prettiest box with the white ribbon. I didn't even want to open it. It just amazed me that they would do something like that. If anyone read my blog a while ago where I was "Tagged", you may remember why this has excited me so.

This year is starting off great! The snow came on my b-day, I'm finishing my first semester in grad school, I'll have my classroom before the end of the year, I got the blue box and a white ribbon, I'm going to Texas next week to visit a friend who is dearly missed, I have family and friends who are absolutely amazing...I'm thankful and I'm happy....life is great!

Winter Wonderland!

2007-12-05T11:50:00.000-05:00

My birthday brought the Winter Wonderland! :) I always call the first day it snows "The Winter Wonderland". It's snowing in DC and it's so pretty. I'm 29, can you believe it? It's only 11:50 am, and I've already gotten signs that 29 is going to be a great year:

Sign 1: The Winter Wonderland came today!! I always love the first day it snows every year, and this year it's on my B-day! Great present!

Sign 2: Morris Chestnut was an in-studio guest on 93.9 this morning! I listen to 93.9 every morning on my way to work and, this morning, I smiled the entire way.

Sign 3: I received Happy Birthday wishes from my family, friends, and my wonderful co-workers! I'm thankful to Allah (swt) for all of you! Thank you for all the Birthday wishes!!

I'm doing something a little different this year. For my birthday, I decided to give my little cousins an Xbox 360 game system. They have wanted one since it came out, and Monday, I finally broke down and bought them one. They don't know I have it yet, but I'm going to give it to them today. I think seeing their reaction tonight will be the best birthday present I can get today.

I am thankful for the people I've met, the things I've done, and the lessons I've learned for the past 28 years. I'm looking forward to the people I have yet to meet, the things I have yet to do, and the lessons I have yet to learn. I can truly look back and say that Allah (swt) has truly blessed me, and for that I am truly and forever grateful.

Happy Birthday to Me, Happy Birthday to Me, Happy Birthday to Me-eee, Happy Birthday to Me...and many more.........

Can't Say No

2007-12-04T16:18:00.000-05:00

It never fails. The moment I get ten million assignments and have my perfect plan on how to complete them all in a timely manner, folks always come with the extra stuff they'd like me to do for them. Ok, so this is the last week of classes. I have a project due on Thursday, an online final to complete by Dec. 9th, and an in-class final on Dec. 11th. Thursday's project required a LOT of work, which I don't mind at all because the assignment is fun, but like I said, it's a LOT of work. I've noticed that the more people watch me work, they figure I don't have enough work to do and MUST ask me to do something for them as well. Don't get me wrong, I love to help my fellow man, but when I'm working on serious projects and folks come with their extra work and THEIR deadlines, my heart begins to beat a little faster. BUT, I figured out why they do it.....because they know I won't say no. As much as my brain is screaming, "WHAT THE HELL? I HAVE MY OWN WORK TO DO!" I hear my mouth saying, "Sure, I'll do it." My brain and my heart are at war. I just have to laugh at myself. BUT, I can't complain because when I help others reach their deadlines, Allah (swt) always blesses me to successfully meet my own. It never fails, and for that, I am grateful.

John Mayer

2007-11-23T19:57:00.000-05:00

John Mayer is the best. I just thought I'd share that with my readers. I only have two of his albums, and I'm here to tell the world that they bring me much joy.

No Black Friday :(

2007-11-23T08:34:00.000-05:00

Happy Belated Turkey Day Everyone!

I'm spending the Thanksgiving holiday in Miami this year. The weather down here is absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!! We get a few days like this here and there in DC, but being in a place were everyday makes you want to stay outside is wonderful. Anyways, since I'm here, I've missed out on Black Friday :(. I messed myself up by looking at the sales online all week. That was a mistake because now I'm thinking about all the sales I missed! Well, we're still going shopping today, so I'll see how that goes. I hope someone got out early and got a great deal on something.

My 22 inch flat screen for $167 is probably sitting pretty in someone's house right now....(sniff). As long as it's in a loving household, I guess I can find a way to let go...

"Those who ask" are picky...

2007-11-18T20:27:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I haven't been here to post...life is just a little busy. Here's one I had to share. Let me know what you all think...

During Ramadan, the parts of the Qur'an that stuck with me the most relate to Allah (swt) telling us to give in charity. I thought about these ayats many times because, although I give, I tend to give to those who display the characteristics of what I consider needy, which was really based on appearance and nothing else. BUT, Allah (swt) tells us to give to "those who ask"...not those who ask and you think are worthy, but simply "to those who ask". Because of this, I have been more open to giving simply to "those who ask". There is a little compartment in my car where I keep spare change and single bills in case I come across anyone on the street who goes car to car in search of assistance. I keep the money there especially for this purpose because I don't want to have to go digging around in my purse and having someone just standing there waiting...I want to be prepared. So, I've practiced this since Ramadan and it has gone pretty well. So, this is where it gets interesting....

Today, I was riding in the car with my little cousins. As we approached a red light, I saw a woman who, from the looks of her, is in SERIOUS need of assistance and has her cup ready and waiting. So, like I've done many times before, I reach for my "giving compartment" and open it to get some money to place her cup. As I roll my window down and place my hand out, she looks at me and says something that sounds like, "I don't take money from mothers." So, I look at the boys and assume she thinks they are my children. As I turn back to her, I say, "No, they are my cousins, it's ok." Then, she mumbles the same sentence again. At this point, I'm a little baffled wondering why she thinks these kids are my children after I just told her they are my cousins. So, I ask, "What did you say?" Then, she CLEARLY states, "I don't take money from Muslims." At this point, I am all of slapped-to-shyt shocked, and all I can think is "WOW!" So, I'm thinking, "She didn't say what I think she just said" and I say, "Excuse me?" She says, "You are Muslim, aren't you?" So, I reply, "Yes." She states again, "I don't take money from Muslims." To which I heard myself reply, "Well, that's why we have it" (although I am a little disappointed in my response, but it was a reflex I couldn't catch...I'm working on it).

I am still shocked as I type this entry for you all. I guess I learned that no matter how much you are in need, for some beliefs, whatever they may be, take priority over starvation. I guess I can't be mad at her for sticking to whatever she believes, but wow...truly amazing.

Benefits of Water

2007-09-26T15:49:00.000-05:00

Amatullah posted the following information in a MySpace post. I thought it was very interesting and worth sharing. I guess I gotta get rid of my ice habit...

Drinking Water on An Empty Stomach

It is popular in Japan, today, to drink water immediately after waking up everymorning. Furthermore, scientific tests haveproven its value. We publish below a description of use of water for Our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the Water treatment had been found successful by a Japanese medical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis, asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, gastritis, diarrhoea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all eye diseases, womb, cancer and menstrual disorders, ear nose and throat diseases. (Insha'ALLAH- we know there is no cure for THE WILL OF ALLAH).

METHOD OF TREATMENT

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth, drink 4 x 160mlglasses of water

2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45minutes

3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.

4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drinkanything for 2 hours

5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day.

6. The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick andothers can enjoy a healthy life.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure/control/reduce main diseases:

1. High Blood Pressure - 30 days
2. Gastric - 10 days
3. Diabetes - 30 days
4. Constipation - 10 days
5. Cancer - 180 days
6. TB - 90 days
7. Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment only for 3 days in the 1st week, and from 2nd weekonwards- daily.

This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencementof treatment you may have to urinate a few times. It is better if we continue this and make this procedure as a routine work in our life. Drink Water and Stay healthy and Active. This makes sense ... the Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals ...not cold water... maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose,everything to gain...

*(Actually, it's Eastern custom to finish a meal with fruit/ sweet and hot tea/ beverage...)

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff thatyou have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

*(Umm, Quick Question: Why do fast food restaurants offer "ice-cold" sodas for consumption, with hot foods?)... okay, back to the article...

A serious note about heart attacks:

Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting.Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line and sensitivity in the chin and nose. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive... unless Insha'ALLAH Has Determined It to BE, otherwise.

Making Amends

2007-09-25T16:18:00.000-05:00

It never fails...during the month of Ramadan, I always have this pressing desire to make amends with anyone I cut off, for good reason of course. The spirit of Ramadan makes me focus more on the good times I had with folks and not focus so much on any bad experiences. So, here I am again pulling out the list of people (Alhamdullah, a very short list) who I just backed away from for a while. Although I have this great spirit whirling around me, I have to admit that I can't help but wonder if it's worth it. Sometimes, you cut people out of your life for good reason and things are great from then on. Sometimes, you cut people out of your life for what you think is good reason, but you can't seem to get them out of your mind because deep down, you truly valued their friendship. The problem is, when making amends, I never know which one is true for that person. Are they good for me? Am I good for them? Is it better just to leave things as they are? Or should I reach out and put the past behind me and hope that they do the same?

I think the problem for me is this: I TRULY value friendship and I try hard to be a great friend. Now, only others can say whether or not all my efforts are successful. It's just really, really, REALLY, R-E-A-L-L-Y hard for me to bounce back from someone intentionally throwing hardship or harm my way especially when I try hard not to intentionally hurt others. I like to think I am truly there for my friends, no matter what. I mean, I may be there with loads of sarcasm and bags of blunt honesty, but that's just me. I guess what I'm asking my readers is this:

How do you know when to make amends and if it's truly worth it? How do you TRULY let go of ill feelings and not try to suppress them in an effort to be "ok"?

I just believe that in these second 10 days of Ramadan, those days in which Allah's (swt) forgiveness is upon us, that we should in turn be forgiving towards our fellow brothers and sisters. I just want to be able to really forgive...not say and act like I forgive and then hear the person's name or see their face and internally pop a quick attitude...just truly forgive.

Baby Steps

2007-09-24T19:09:00.000-05:00

No matter how hard I work, sometimes, I feel like I'm taking very tiny steps towards my goals. I REALLY don't like to compare my life to those of others because I know that Allah (swt) blesses us all differently, but I can't get past feeling like there are some who know the answers to taking those gigantic steps...they just get to their goals very quickly. I really want to know how to do that. Maybe I missed something in life, or maybe I haven't learned whatever I am supposed to learn to move on the the next phase, but no matter what I do and no matter how busy I am, I can't help feeling like I'm moving very slowly.

This post is real random, I know...

15 Items or LESS!

2007-09-23T12:18:00.002-05:00

I may be wrong, but I always believed that the great man/woman of genius who invented the 10/15/20 items or less lane at the supermarket was a person who was extremely considerate and knew how to respect people's time. "Why have only 2 items and be made to stand behind someone with two carts full of things?" he/she must have asked himself/herself one day. And, thus, the special lane was invented. Therefore, as people who benefit from this great invention, we should respect it at all cost. Unfortunately, the inventor didn't place any rules next to the lane because a simple "15 items or less" sign should be easily understood, but my experience has proved that there are some among us in desperate need of more detailed explanations. So, I have come up with the following rules to assist those of us who are still a bit confused about what the "15 items or less" sign actually means. Please read and adhere:

1. Before getting in the 10/15/20 items or less lane, COUNT the number of items you have in your cart, hand, and child's/children's hand/hands. If you have exactly OR less than the stated lane items, ONLY then are you allowed to proceed in this lane. If not, you must quickly move to a lane with no limitations posted.

2. All items are counted separately! 15 individual yogurts on do NOT equal 1 item. It's only one item if it is packaged as one. If you can't hold them all in one hand with one grip, it's NOT packaged!

3. Just because you place two dividers between your 45 items so they become sets of 3 does NOT mean you qualify for the 15 items or less lane!

4. If you enter the lane with 15 items and then realize that you forgot to pick up a couple of things and you proceed to continously go back to get these items while little Jimmy watches the basket, you NO LONGER qualify to be in the 15 items or less lane. You have now exceeded the required limit.

5. Stacked items do not count as 1. Just because the bread sits on top of the cans, the bread is still counted. That magazine you tossed on top of the bread, yeah, still counts as an item. It's not the 15 items that touch the belt, it is 15 items TOTAL. Everything SCANNED counts as 1.

6. Don't pop an attitude because the folks behind you are CLEARLY pissed that you have 109 items in your cart and the cashier, for reasons unbeknown to me, will continue to scan all of them. Guess what? They have earned the RIGHT to be pissed. Whether the cashier points it out to you or not, YOU ARE IN VIOLATION!!!

7. If you have managed to get the cashier to scan your 59 items in the 15 items or less lane, don't add insult to injury by striking up a conversation with the cashier so that he/she will scan slower in order to finish talking to you! Yeah, we all love the Redskins, but come back on the cashier's lunch break to talk about the details of the game, Mr. Violation.

I'm sure there are more rules, but I'm gonna stop here. I just wanted to get my point out there to the general public. Let's show that we appreciate and respect the 10/15/20 items or less lane, folks. PLEASE!

*This post has been inspired by many, but a special shout-out goes to the man in front of me at the Safeway this morning.

A little compassion please...

2007-09-23T09:21:00.000-05:00

As part of my current position, I am required to administer blood pressure screenings to children whose physicians did not provide that information on their health certificate. I never understood how to read the blood pressure needle (very long story), so I always have a co-worker go with me to do it. Upon arrival at one school, we found that the children were eating lunch, so we had to wait. While they were eating, I noticed one little boy (three-years old) in particular eating his lunch very fast and stuffing his mouth in the process. He wasn't playing with his food at all; I guess he was just that hungry. Before I could get a good, "Slow down, sweetie" out of my mouth, he begins to seriously vomit. The parts that he can't catch in his tiny hands runs all the way down his clothes. As I turn to go grab some paper towels, I see the teacher's aide walking towards the teacher with paper towels. She hands the paper towels to the teacher. The teacher, looking all of disgusted that she has to get up from her seat, takes her time walking over to the child. She motions for the little boy to come over by the trashcan, and he does. While standing there, she tears off a paper towel one by one and hands them to the child (three-years old). The child (three-years old) takes the paper towels and, in an effort to clean himself, spreads the mess all over his clothes. Anyone who knows me knows that this scene is beginning to disturb me just a bit, BUT the new bright, sunshiny me looks on the bright side and thinks that maybe the teacher is allowing the child to clean himself up as much as possible to work on those fine motor skills and THEN she is going to really clean him up. Sadly, I was wrong. After the child continues to make a mess of himself, she takes out a bottle of hand sanitizer and squeezes a few drops into the child's hands....the hands that are still covered in vomit. The child (three-years old) begins to rub the sanitizer all around his hands. The teacher then tells the child to sit and finish his lunch. OK...now that bright, sunshiny theory of mine when right out the window and the normal me returned, so I had to speak:

Me: Ms. (teacher's name), if you don't mind, I can take him to the bathroom and clean him up.
Teacher: (looking baffled) Oh, that's ok, I just gave him hand sanitizer.
Me: (blank stare wondering who the hell hired this woman) Ummmm...Ms. (teacher's name), he needs soap and water. Hot water, preferably.
Teacher: (noticing she's talking to someone who may actually care about the child) Oh, yes, I'm going to clean him up. He has an extra pair of clothes in his cubby. I just figured I'd let him finish eating first.
Me: (looks at the child, sees his state, thinks that if I walked in a school cafeteria and saw my child eating in his condition, security and on and off duty cops would have to escort me out of the buidling while Fox 5 covered the report). Ummm...he can't eat like that. His hands and face are filthy and his clothes are all messed up. Not to mention all the germs and bacterial issues that the hand sanitizer didn't address (I was praying she caught the sarcasm). I really don't mind cleaning him up.
Teacher: (looks at me and my co-worker who is just as disgusted as I am and decides to take the child to the classroom and clean him up herself.)

Ten minutes later, the child returns looking fresh and sparkly and finishes his lunch, this time eating much slower than before. I was satisfied, but disturbed that the only reason she took the child and cleaned him up is because someone had to bring it to her attention that it needed to be done. Either that, or she thought we were going to go back to work and report her...who knows?

All I know is that people who work with others need to truly understand what it means to be empathetic. Where is the compassion, folks?

Chill time is over

2007-09-22T09:11:00.000-05:00

My body crashed last night and again this morning. I think it's just beginning to accept this job/grad school schedule. I realize that I've been moving non-stop Mondays to Fridays since school began. When I'm not moving, I'm sitting still reading or typing. Chill time is definitely over. I'm not complaining because from all the information I've studied and since the professors actually started TEACHING, I've learned a lot. I just have to truly get used to this schedule. One of my co-workers told me that she took four classes in grad school one semester AND she worked full-time. I just had to stare at her like she enjoyed torture 'cause I can't begin to fix my brain to imagine that...I know she got NO sleep.

I'll embrace chill time once again in two years. I'll welcome it with open arms and a sloppy kiss!

Allah's (swt) Mercy

2007-09-15T12:01:00.000-05:00

After the evening prayers at the Masjid last night, a brother spoke about the month of Ramadan. He stated that the first ten days regard Allah's (swt) Mercy. The second ten days regard Allah's (swt) Forgiveness. The last ten days regard Allah's (swt) Salvation, which makes it very appropriate that the first ayats of the Qur'an were revealed on one of the odd nights during this time.

During these first three days of Ramadan, I've noticed that the weather has been absolutely BEAUTIFUL and, I don't know if anyone else has noticed, but I just feel a great spirit in the air. Just a part of Allah's (swt) Mercy :).

I can't believe we are already at day three. It saddens me to know that there are only 27 days left (minus the few in which I won't be able to participate due to being born a female). I guess there is so much I want to achieve during this month, I just feel like I really need to get things done before it's over.

I pray that everyone's fast is successful!

Ramadan Mubarak!

2007-09-13T13:34:00.000-05:00

Ramadan Mubarak one and all!!!

I received a very nice dua (prayer) in my email from someone in the Family Halaqah Group and I would like to post it as my first Ramadan post:

May Allah make firm our iman and our hope of His forgiveness
May Allah make fruitful our sacrifice of a part of the night for prayer
May Allah decrease our desire for worldly things and increase our remembrance of him until it produces a correct attitude towards fasting and inspire righteous deeds

O people, spread the salutations, feed the people, keep the ties of kinship, and pray during the night while the others sleep and you will enter Paradise in peace. - At-Tirmidi -

Me again:

I pray that everyone has a blessed, joyous, and successful Ramadan. It's over in thirty days, folks, so let's make the best of this month and enjoy it to the fullest!!

My Loyalty is with Maggie Moo's...

2007-09-07T11:03:00.000-05:00

I took a trip to Capital Blvd one day with my mom because she needed to visit the Sprint store. When we got there, the store was a little crowded and I knew there would be a little wait. I was in the mood for something sweet and remembered that there was an ice cream shop in the shopping center and decided to go there. I asked my mom if she would like anything, and she decided on vanilla ice cream with walnuts and hot fudge. So, I left her in the Sprint store and walked around to the Cold Stone ice cream parlor. When I entered the parlor, I noticed that only two people were placing an order, so I figured I would be out of there pretty soon. I stood in line patiently waiting my turn while looking at the flavors available. I didn't see vanilla, but noticed they had "Sweet Cream." As I waited, two guys came in and stood in line behind me.
As I wait, a girl comes out from the back room, walks to the counter, looks at me and says, "May I help you?" Here is the conversation that follows:

Me: "Hello. Is the sweet cream anything like vanilla?"
Ice Cream Girl: "Yes."
Me: "Ok, I'll have the sweet cream with walnuts and hot fudge."
Ice Cream Girl: "Ok, so you want sweet cream with nuts and hot fudge."
Me: (pause, blank stare) "Yes"
Ice Cream Girl: "What kind of nuts do you want?"
Me: (pause, blank stare) "What kind of nuts do you have?"
Ice Cream Girl: "We have peanuts, walnuts, and pralines."
Me: "I want walnuts."
Ice Cream Girl: "Ok, so you want sweet cream with walnuts and hot fudge?"
Me: (pause, blank stare, ready to make my own ice cream) a forced "Yes."
Ice Cream Girl: "Ok."
Me: "And, I would like a Cherry Cheeseshake."
Ice Cream Girl: (blank stare) "So, you want two things?"
(Snickers coming from the guys behind me that makes me realize it's not just me...)
Me: (eye squint, deep breath) "Ummmm...yeah, I believe that makes two."
Ice Cream Girl: "Ok."

So, she proceeds to make the sweet cream with the walnuts and hot fudge. I'm watching her closely due to the way the converstation went. As she's fixing this order, another girl comes out from the back. The girl fixing the order asks the other girl if she would make me a scoop of cherry cheesecake ice cream.

Me: "No, I want a Cherry Cheeseshake. See, like up there on your menu."
New Ice Cream Girl: "Oh no. I hate making milkshakes. What size do you want?"
Me: (a little nervous as I point to the size I'd like) "That one."

The new ice cream girl goes off to make the milkshake while my eyes glance back and forth between the two to make sure they are giving me what I asked for. So, the regular ice cream girl finishes my mom's order and motions for me to come down to the register to pay. I walk to the register and she rings me up and gives me my total. I pull out my bank card (since I never carry cash on me) with the VISA logo and hand it to her.

Ice Cream Girl: "Oh, we don't take these."
Me: (blank stare with a hint of disgust) "You don't take what?"
Guy behind me to Ice Cream Girl: "I doubt that's a Food Stamps Card."
His Friend: "And even if it was, when did you all stop taking Food Stamps?"
(Laughter from me and the two guys, blank stare from the ice cream girl)
Ice Cream Girl: (Takes a double look) "Oh, ok, we DO take these."
Me: "Ummmmm....yeah and so does everyone else."

So, she finishes my transaction when here comes new ice cream girl handing me two large milkshakes.

Me: "Ummmm...I only ordered one."
New Ice Cream Girl: "Oh, yeah, well, I made too much, so I'm just giving you all of it."
Me: "Ummmmmm...ok."

So, I take the second milkshake and chalk it up to payment for my experience. There were a few folks sitting outside enjoying the weather. I found an older lady and asked her if she'd like a cherry cheesecake milkshake. She happily accepted and I went on my way back to the Sprint store.

This just lets me know that my loyalty remains with Maggie Moos.

This thing called Grad School...

2007-09-07T09:28:00.000-05:00

So far, I've completed two weeks of this thing called graduate school and I have serious concerns. Why am I paying all this money to be "taught" by my fellow classmates? If I read the assigned chapter, why does the professor tell me and my classmates to get in a circle and discuss it amongst ourselves? Ummmm...what? I didn't read 40 pages to talk about it with folks who are on the same level as I am while the professor just sits and watches us. So, at this point I'm thinking, "Ok, so after we finish the discussion, she's going to bring up certain points we discussed and go into further detail." WRONG! It was, "Ok, now that we've done that, let's view some slides, shall we?" Aneesah = BLOWN. The class lasts from 7:10 pm to 9:40 pm. If the professor has done all that she is going to do for the evening and it's only 9:00 pm, just let us go home. Please don't make us sit there for 40 minutes looking at slides in order to fill the time because I've been at work all day and I'm tired. Again, Aneesah = BLOWN. My excitement about returning to school is slowly dwindling. I absolutely LOVE the subject and the information I'm reading, but the actual classes are really blowing me simply because the Professors don't seem like they are actually teaching me anything. If that's the case, I can just read the assigned chapters, submit the assigned papers and projects and call it a day. Why go to class? Oh, I know why...because if I miss three I get an automatic "F".....stupid, right?

Insh'Allah, it will be over soon enough. I just pray I come out with more knowledge than that with which I began. I mean, that is the point, right?

The Big Move

2007-08-28T14:50:00.000-05:00

Ok, so my life has been going through some serious changes, and definitely for the better, Alhamdullah. Last weekend, well starting Friday evening, I moved from the basement to the top floor of our house. It was some SERIOUS work which is almost over, but I'm loving it already! The natural light that comes through those windows is absolutely wonderful and I have a lot more space. BUT, let me tell you all about the move....

So, my dad tells me that he's hired some movers to help move the furniture. Ok, I should have KNOWN what to expect: Brothers from the Masjid. Now, I don't have problem with brothers who actually work, but the following things are a bit annoying:

1. Don't enter my house expecting to be fed. You came to work, not for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

2. Don't show up when you feel like it and leave before you've done anything and tell me you'll be back next weekend. (Hell NO!)

3. Don't lay all over my couch like you live in my house.

4. Don't complain the entire time you're there about moving furniture. That was the purpose of you showing up.

5. Don't look through my DVDs and CDs like you're at Blockbuster expecting to BORROW my stuff!

Folks, there is a very long story to this, but I'm actually too tired to type it in detail. These were the main points. Nevertheless, the brothers never finished the job. They were supposed to show up on Saturday at 4:00 PM, but didn't get there until 8:00 PM. Did I mention it was POURING down STORMING outside. What the hell did they expect to move??? So, they moved my television to the top floor and told me they would be back the next day at 10 am. The next morning, they showed up at 12:30 pm, took apart my little cousins bunk beds, took them to my grandfather's house (who lives all of a 5 minute drive from my house) and left the pieces there for my 78 year-old grandfather to put back together. They proceeded to come back to my house, move my couch and the matching chair to the top floor and then hit me with "Ok, we have to go. We will be back next weekend." Now, anyone who knows me personally knows what came next. I told them, "Oh, the hell you won't because this furniture will be moved to the top floor today if I have to carry each piece myself!" So, they left at 2:30 pm...remember they just got there at noon. Ok, they left and my BESTEST friend in the whole wide world came over to help me move the rest of the furniture. My dad also came to help me move and I told him only to pay those brothers for what they moved and to "deduct" the $20 I gave the brother for gas money to get the bed to my grandfather's house. Yeah, they pissed me the hell off. That was just a lesson and a reminder for me to not marry a sorry ass man...

But, I'm all moved now and happy with it! I can finally get some plants for my place. Once everything is settled, I'll add a fish to the top floor as well. I plan to name him Jack Sparrow. Anyway, my first night of class is tonight, so I'll be there from 7:10 pm to 9:40 pm. I just pray it's interesting...

So, I'm sick...

2007-08-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

I'm sick and it sucks. Actually, I can't complain too much because I'm at the end of this sickness. I've been feeling bad since Wednesday of last week. My throat was hurting so bad Friday that I decided to just go to the doctor in case I had something serious. After waiting four hours, I was told that I just had a "little virus" that was going around and to just rest and gargle with salt water. YEAH, WHATEVER! Well, I can say that I didn't really take the doctor's advice and kept going to work and doing all the errands I needed to do. I mean, come on, school starts next week for myself and my job, so and I need to make sure I get things done in this last week of preparation. That all came to a halt this morning because I felt so BAD when I woke up. My body just said, "Hell no, you aren't going anywhere! I am going to stay in this bed whether you like it or not!" So, I decided I'd just take the day to sleep and rest and drown myself in mint tea, and you know what, it's 1:30 pm and I feel better already. I'll continue to rest throughout the day because I have to get back into the grind tomorrow...besides, I have a hair appointment tomorrow that I dare not miss.

I've fallen in love with mint tea. I really want to make my own because the "tea in the bag" isn't anywhere near the delicious tea you get in the Moroccan restaurant. I looked up the receipe online and I'm pretty excited to try and make it from the mint plant. I'll probably grow my own, but the chef at my job grows it outside our building, so I'll just ask him for a few pieces of plant in the meantime. Once I perfect it, I'll have to invite some folks over for tea :).

I'm moving. Well, same address, different floor. I'm moving from the basement to the top floor of our house. A long time ago, the top floor of our house used to be an apartment, so I guess I'm about to turn it back into one. The one thing that excites me about the move is all the natural light I'll enjoy. I don't get much natural light in the basement, which sucks because I haven't been able to keep any plants down here. I do dread the fact that a lot of work is ahead of me, and I need to be finished by Sunday. The movers are coming on Saturday to move all the big furniture. I wish I could just blink everything in place. Maybe I'll start moving little stuff tomorrow.

I'm going to end it here. I hope everyone is doing well and if not, give me a call so I can bring a smile to your face :).

It's a Boy!!

2007-08-21T07:42:00.000-05:00

Alhamdullah, we have another Believer!! Congratulations to Azizah and Khalid in welcoming their new baby boy, Zayd Ahmad Shaheed who was born on August 20th at 8:00 am. I am completey overjoyed for them and can't wait to see Mr. Cutie in person. We thank Allah (swt) for his safe birth for Azizah and Zayd, and we thank him that Zayd is happy and healthy.

Azizah needs to start a blog about motherhood. I'd love to read that.

Congratulations again!!!

Ok, I'm really back...

2007-08-19T19:54:00.000-05:00

I've had so much to write about, but couldn't find the time to write. The past couple of months have been very interesting in my world and the world of my friends. I've been to many weddings, baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties, graduation parties, going away parties...just a lot of celebrations which were all absolutely wonderful. So, I pray that all of my friends remain happy and continue on their successful paths.

In a few days, I will begin a new path of my own. Next week, I begin the first classes towards a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education. I haven't been in school in a while, so I'd really like it to be over already. The only thing that really worries me is that my classes are from 7:10 pm to 9:40 pm and I am SUCH a morning person! I was the one in undergrad looking for the 8:00 am classes. After working all day, how am I possibly going to sit in class all night? I'm making it harder than it seems. I only have classes on Tuesday and Thursday...oh, and some random Monday class titled Transition to Graduate School. What's that about? First of all, I get NO credit for it, but it's mandatory. Why do I need a class on what I'll figure out anyway? But hey, there were many classes in undergrad that I believed were pointless, so I guess one in Grad school won't be that bad. Don't you all love my positive attitude?

I'm getting a little sleepy and I have a dental appointment in the morning before I head to the J-O-B, so Insh'Allah, I'll be back tomorrow with another topic...not in four weeks, tomorrow...

Missing In Action

2007-07-16T07:39:00.000-05:00

Wow, I haven't been here in four months. I don't know if anyone even comes here to read anymore, but Insh'Allah, I'm starting it up again. The last four months have been very interesting, and I'll be back later to tell you all about them, although I don't know if there is anyone out there still reading this blog. If so, I'm back....if not, I'm talking to myself...

Cutting the Carbs

2007-03-01T08:07:00.000-05:00

I've jumped back on my weight loss goal. Yesterday, I joined the DC Recreation's Gym, which means I have no excuse not to go exercise. I've decided to limit the amount of carbs I put into my body, but I have found it a little difficult since carbs have been my main source of intake over the past couple of years. Carbs are fillers, so that's why I eat them so much. I've found that I get hungry quickly now that I'm working on very low carbs. I don't mind eating right, I just don't want to be hungry all day. Any suggestions on snacks or foods that are "fillers" without the need for carbs? Thanks in advance.

Following my own plans eliminates my frustration...

2007-02-19T20:55:00.000-05:00

As you all know, I finally took Praxis I and passed it, Alhamdullah! I took this test because it is required for admissions into a Master of Arts in Teaching specializing in Early Childhood program for which I am applying. I was sooooo excited about passing this test simply to go back to school. My goal is to enter the field of Early Childhood Education, and since I’ve never taught this age group, I wanted to complete the program before I entered the classroom. This was MY plan. Others had other plans. The word got around that I had passed the test, and since I work for the Head Start program and they needed teachers, I was offered an interview with the interviewing panel by the principal of an Elementary School. A red flag went up simply because this was not my plan and I was concerned because I have no teaching license. I explained my concern to her and others at my place of employment, but they ASSURED me that it was not a problem. “As long as you’ve taken Praxis I, you can be granted a provisional license and be ok.” That’s what I was constantly told by more than one person. So, of course, I listen to them because they have to know the credentials people need in order to be teachers? Right? Maybe they knew something I didn’t, and because I thought this, I wasn’t going to turn down the opportunity to teach when needed and continue my path of entering the Masters program. There are many teachers who do this, so I felt ok with it.

I had the interview, which went very well, and was offered the position. I happily accepted and explained to the principal that I wanted to give my job two weeks notice since she wanted me to start the following Monday. I didn’t want to leave my job on a bad note, so to give two weeks notice was considerate, which I did. So, I informed the principal that I would be there on January 22nd, which was two weeks later. I finished my two weeks, had a going away party, and packed up ready and EXTRA excited to start my day when I walk in and see the principal who greets me with a huge smile and a disturbing question: “GREAT, so they called you?” Ummmmm….what? She meant the Human Resources department of DC Public Schools. It seems that I couldn’t start until they contacted me. I thought I was only going to be out for a little while, so I decided to wait a while for the call.

So, FOUR WEEKS LATER, I find myself still sitting at home waiting for the phone call or the letter. I’ve been in contact over the four weeks with the principal and the Educational Supervisor who both kept repeating the same questions and statements: “Have you heard anything yet?” “This is ridiculous.” “Those people are so slow.” “I’m going to contact them again….yada, yada, yada.” THEN, last Thursday, the principal calls me again and THIS time asks me a different question: “Have you been to the certification office?” This question pissed me the hell off for two reasons: 1) How the hell was I supposed to know I needed to go to the certification office?, and 2) Why didn’t you tell me this FOUR weeks ago? Better yet, why wasn’t I told this after my interview??? She also informed me FOUR WEEKS LATER that I wasn’t removed from the system; therefore, I could return to my old job until everything worked out. YOU KNOW I WAS PISSED! So, I’m like, I can’t deal with the idiots anymore. I contacted the Executive Director of Head Start who happily told me that I could come back to work immediately and stay until everything was straight. This was a breath of fresh air, but it was also a bit upsetting because if I had known all this, I wouldn’t have left until everything was straight in the first place. I told her that I would start the following week, since I wanted to use the next day, which was Friday, to go to the certification office. So, I get there and a VERY pleasant woman informed me that I wouldn’t be granted a provisional license until I passed Praxis II and enrolled into a teaching certification program, which is the Masters program for which I took Praxis I. I wasn’t eligible for the other provisional for two reasons: 1) my degree isn’t in Early Childhood Education and 2) I’ve taught in DC for more than a year.

So, I’ve been off for FOUR weeks because I didn’t follow my own plan and rather put my trust into people who should have known the deal. I mean, how do I get offered a position for which I am obviously not qualified for with no provisional???? Where does this leave me? Well, I will return to my old job tomorrow morning, which I have mixed emotions about. I’ll be happy about being able to be with my co-workers again and getting that check and the benefits, but I’ll be sad about my job because I don’t really like it because it’s boring and not a challenge at all, but I’m trying not to complain because at least I have a job. I just hate that they gave me a going away party and all that and here I am coming back…do I give the gifts back?
So, I plan on taking Praxis II in June, or maybe earlier, and I plan to begin the Masters program this Fall, so Insh’Allah, those two goals will work out for me. These past four weeks, plus the interview and everything just seems like it was all a waste of time. There is no guarantee that the position I interviewed for will be available next year, so I may have done all that for nothing…I don’t know.

Things like this seem to happen to me…whenever I get truly excited about something, it’s never a smooth ride….ever…

What have I learned from this experience? 1) Always go with your gut instincts and follow your plan, and 2) never leave a job on a bad note, cause you never know when you may have to return! Can you all imagine how it would be if I gave my job the finger and just rolled out?? OMG…it would definitely be harder for me to go back, that is if they allowed me back…lol.

Is that so?

2007-01-31T08:04:00.000-05:00

The night before last, I spent the evening with a friend and her husband. It's always nice being in the company of sane, intelligent folks who have interesting things to discuss. I especially enjoy listening to males about various topics, cause let's face it, men and women have different perspectives on various topics. It's kinda like that Sex and The City episode where Jack Burger and the girls are hanging out and he gives Miranda the "He's just not that into you" line regarding why a guy had not called her back after a date. I love that scene because all the girls are sitting there shocked as to why he would say that to her, but Miranda appreciated the information because it was the truth...a truth she may not have concluded had she kept discussing the issue with the girls. Needless to say, I learned a couple of new things from the male perspective that evening, which I appreciate. I definitely have a better understanding of certain things. This blog is just stating, in my opinion, why male and female dialogue is necessary. We can learn a lot from each other, which could in turn make our lives a little easier.

No Middle Ground

2007-01-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

The past couple of months up until now have been really challenging emotionally. I either find myself deeply saddened or extremely happy, but I never find myself on a middle ground. The death of those who were close to me, and hearing about the deaths of people who are close to close friends of mine have truly weighed on my heart. The announcements of close friends' engagements, news of pregnancies, and knowing that I have a new job have made me extremely happy. I keep saying that 2007 is a year for change, but I didn't prepare myself for the change that would bring sadness. The only thing that keeps me balanced is my belief in Allah (swt) and knowing that this is His creation; therefore, He knows what is best for it. Faith can definitely keep you centered. I just pray that He continues to keep us turning to him for comfort because He is the best to give it.

The First Day of School

2007-01-23T06:15:00.000-05:00

I arrived at the school bright and early only to find that I wasn’t supposed to start yet because the DC Public School offices hadn’t called me to come in and receive my letter and all that blah, blah, blah. Question: how the hell was I supposed to know that I was supposed to, and why didn’t someone tell me? Then it occurred to me that I still work for the DC Public School system and it’s normal to find out information in this manner. I decided to stay for the day just to observe the class, and oh, what a day it was. I entered the classroom only to find that it needs a COMPLETE makeover, which I am prepared to do. Nothing about the room says four year olds learn there except the size of the furniture. The centers are pretty much non-existent, although there are materials to have them….and the children……the children are OFF THE HOOK which is completely understandable since they, from what I hear, have had no structure all year. At the same time, they are the most loving bunch of four year olds I’ve ever encountered. That’s why my emotions were so mixed up all day. They went from loving and hugs to me wanting to scream my head off (which I didn’t) because of all the disorder in the classroom. The interesting thing about that is only eleven of them came to school yesterday. I kept telling myself that there are seven more…..wow. With some order,a better environment, and MANY activities, I’m sure everything will be fine. I guess the great thing about it is once they go to lunch, have recess, and then come in and take their nap, it’s then time for the little crumb snatchers to go home. And, their lunch begins at 11:30 a.m., so this should be interesting.

Funny moments of the day:

There was a small doll in a wheel chair and I asked the children what happened to her and a little girl jumped up and yelled “Ms. Aneesah, she got SHOT!” It wasn’t what she said, but the way she said it…I had to hold in my laughter which was very hard to do.

One of the little girls kept complaining that her feet hurt. I noticed that her shoes were too small for her, so when her mother came to pick her up, I told her about the problem to which she said “Oh, Ms. Aneesah, I tried to tell her, but she wanted to stick her size 10 feet in some size 7 shoes because they matched her tights, so she needed to learn her lesson.” Then she turned to her daughter and said, “I bet you won’t wear them tomorrow will you?” The things girls will do to look good…lol.

One little girl’s mom came to pick her up and asked her daughter, “Oh, who is this?” (meaning me). The little girl looked at me and said “She’s my new teacher and my new god-mommy.” I’m like, HUH??? LOL…

There was a moment during movement time where the teacher’s aide put on some slow music for the “partner slow dance”, which is TOO CUTE! One of the little girls dancing with me tried to spin me and hit me with a dip….I’m like, ummmmmm….LOL. It was way easier to spin and dip her, but she never wanted to stop spinning.

There were more moments, but these are the only ones I can remember. I am going to put a notebook in my pocket and jot them down from now on.

So, I’m going back today only because my aide asked me to, and I don’t mind because I definitely enjoyed my day yesterday, and this will give me the opportunity to meet the children who weren’t there. Oh, and my aide is absolutely wonderful. She is a true sweetheart, I tell you. She’s great with the children and I can tell she’s a hard worker and we really mesh well together, so I’m definitely thankful to Allah (swt) for that.

It was definitely an interesting day, and I’m sure today will be just as fun :).

An honest hour

2007-01-17T20:39:00.000-05:00

The other day I had a thought that I’ve never had before, which was that I wanted to stop covering my hair. Then, an hour later, I turned back to my normal self and came to my senses. But, for one full hour, I truly considered it. It wasn’t that I wanted to stop covering in an effort to denounce my religion or anything, and in no way do I feel "oppressed". I just hate the fact that I want to style my hair, but am forced to always rock a ponytail because of my scarf. I know that is a horrible reason for wanting to take the scarf off, but it was the honest truth. Four years ago, I decided to loc my hair and I love them. I love them even more when they are curly and cute. I can’t curl them because once I pull them back into a pony tail and wrap my hair, they flatten out, which sucks, which means if I want to "cuten up" I have to wash my hair on a Friday or Saturday night so it's nice and wet, roll it, and let the curls fly the next day while I'm in the house. Which means I would have to cancel all plans for that day so I can be curly and cute in my house...I know this may seem a little crazy to some of you readers, but I'm just saying what I felt. After my hour was over, I thought about other Muslim sisters and wondered if anyone ever had the same thought or a related one regarding something else they felt they couldn't do. I mean, I started the everyday covering in 7th grade, so it's been a long while (16 years) since I went out the house without my scarf on, which is why I'm wondering if that's where the brief breakdown came from.

I just wish there were certain weeks or months in the year when it is mandatory for men to stay indoors so women can go out and feel the sun on their skin and the wind in their hair.

Anybody ever felt the same about this or something else?

January's Eye Candy of the Month...

2007-01-16T17:59:00.000-05:00

...is awarded to Columbus Short who is currently the lead actor (DJ Williams) in the hit movie Stomp the Yard. If he was a little older and was a submitter to the will of Allah (swt), life would be great. Sorry for the shirt lacking picture ladies, but there weren't many pictures of him in my google image search.

If you would like to nominate someone for the Eye Candy of the Month Award, please do so.

And, shockingly Morris was not the first one, although he should have been since his birthday is January 1st, but I knew you all would just expect that from me :).

Interesting Article

2007-01-15T17:02:00.000-05:00

I'm not married, but I really enjoyed reading this article...

What Shamu Taught Me About a Happy Marriage
By AMY SUTHERLAND

AS I wash dishes at the kitchen sink, my husband paces behind me, irritated. "Have you seen my keys?" he snarls, then huffs out a loud sigh and stomps from the room with our dog, Dixie, at his heels, anxious over her favorite human's upset.
In the past I would have been right behind Dixie. I would have turned off the faucet and joined the hunt while trying to soothe my husband with bromides like, "Don't worry, they'll turn up." But that only made him angrier, and a simple case of missing keys soon would become a full-blown angst-ridden drama starring the two of us and our poor nervous dog.
Now, I focus on the wet dish in my hands. I don't turn around. I don't say a word. I'm using a technique I learned from a dolphin trainer.
I love my husband. He's well read, adventurous and does a hysterical rendition of a northern Vermont accent that still cracks me up after 12 years of marriage.
But he also tends to be forgetful, and is often tardy and mercurial. He hovers around me in the kitchen asking if I read this or that piece in The New Yorker when I'm trying to concentrate on the simmering pans. He leaves wadded tissues in his wake. He suffers from serious bouts of spousal deafness but never fails to hear me when I mutter to myself on the other side of the house. "What did you say?" he'll shout.
These minor annoyances are not the stuff of separation and divorce, but in sum they began to dull my love for Scott. I wanted — needed — to nudge him a little closer to perfect, to make him into a mate who might annoy me a little less, who wouldn't keep me waiting at restaurants, a mate who would be easier to love.
So, like many wives before me, I ignored a library of advice books and set about improving him. By nagging, of course, which only made his behavior worse: he'd drive faster instead of slower; shave less frequently, not more; and leave his reeking bike garb on the bedroom floor longer than ever.
We went to a counselor to smooth the edges off our marriage. She didn't understand what we were doing there and complimented us repeatedly on how well we communicated. I gave up. I guessed she was right — our union was better than most — and resigned myself to stretches of slow-boil resentment and occasional sarcasm.
Then something magical happened. For a book I was writing about a school for exotic animal trainers, I started commuting from Maine to California, where I spent my days watching students do the seemingly impossible: teaching hyenas to pirouette on command, cougars to offer their paws for a nail clipping, and baboons to skateboard.
I listened, rapt, as professional trainers explained how they taught dolphins to flip and elephants to paint. Eventually it hit me that the same techniques might work on that stubborn but lovable species, the American husband.
The central lesson I learned from exotic animal trainers is that I should reward behavior I like and ignore behavior I don't. After all, you don't get a sea lion to balance a ball on the end of its nose by nagging. The same goes for the American husband.
Back in Maine, I began thanking Scott if he threw one dirty shirt into the hamper. If he threw in two, I'd kiss him. Meanwhile, I would step over any soiled clothes on the floor without one sharp word, though I did sometimes kick them under the bed. But as he basked in my appreciation, the piles became smaller.
I was using what trainers call "approximations," rewarding the small steps toward learning a whole new behavior. You can't expect a baboon to learn to flip on command in one session, just as you can't expect an American husband to begin regularly picking up his dirty socks by praising him once for picking up a single sock. With the baboon you first reward a hop, then a bigger hop, then an even bigger hop. With Scott the husband, I began to praise every small act every time: if he drove just a mile an hour slower, tossed one pair of shorts into the hamper, or was on time for anything.
I also began to analyze my husband the way a trainer considers an exotic animal. Enlightened trainers learn all they can about a species, from anatomy to social structure, to understand how it thinks, what it likes and dislikes, what comes easily to it and what doesn't. For example, an elephant is a herd animal, so it responds to hierarchy. It cannot jump, but can stand on its head. It is a vegetarian.
The exotic animal known as Scott is a loner, but an alpha male. So hierarchy matters, but being in a group doesn't so much. He has the balance of a gymnast, but moves slowly, especially when getting dressed. Skiing comes naturally, but being on time does not. He's an omnivore, and what a trainer would call food-driven.
Once I started thinking this way, I couldn't stop. At the school in California, I'd be scribbling notes on how to walk an emu or have a wolf accept you as a pack member, but I'd be thinking, "I can't wait to try this on Scott."
On a field trip with the students, I listened to a professional trainer describe how he had taught African crested cranes to stop landing on his head and shoulders. He did this by training the leggy birds to land on mats on the ground. This, he explained, is what is called an "incompatible behavior," a simple but brilliant concept.
Rather than teach the cranes to stop landing on him, the trainer taught the birds something else, a behavior that would make the undesirable behavior impossible. The birds couldn't alight on the mats and his head simultaneously.
At home, I came up with incompatible behaviors for Scott to keep him from crowding me while I cooked. To lure him away from the stove, I piled up parsley for him to chop or cheese for him to grate at the other end of the kitchen island. Or I'd set out a bowl of chips and salsa across the room. Soon I'd done it: no more Scott hovering around me while I cooked.
I followed the students to SeaWorld San Diego, where a dolphin trainer introduced me to least reinforcing syndrome (L. R. S.). When a dolphin does something wrong, the trainer doesn't respond in any way. He stands still for a few beats, careful not to look at the dolphin, and then returns to work. The idea is that any response, positive or negative, fuels a behavior. If a behavior provokes no response, it typically dies away.
In the margins of my notes I wrote, "Try on Scott!"
It was only a matter of time before he was again tearing around the house searching for his keys, at which point I said nothing and kept at what I was doing. It took a lot of discipline to maintain my calm, but results were immediate and stunning. His temper fell far shy of its usual pitch and then waned like a fast-moving storm. I felt as if I should throw him a mackerel.
Now he's at it again; I hear him banging a closet door shut, rustling through papers on a chest in the front hall and thumping upstairs. At the sink, I hold steady. Then, sure enough, all goes quiet. A moment later, he walks into the kitchen, keys in hand, and says calmly, "Found them."
Without turning, I call out, "Great, see you later."
Off he goes with our much-calmed pup.
After two years of exotic animal training, my marriage is far smoother, my husband much easier to love. I used to take his faults personally; his dirty clothes on the floor were an affront, a symbol of how he didn't care enough about me. But thinking of my husband as an exotic species gave me the distance I needed to consider our differences more objectively.
I adopted the trainers' motto: "It's never the animal's fault." When my training attempts failed, I didn't blame Scott. Rather, I brainstormed new strategies, thought up more incompatible behaviors and used smaller approximations. I dissected my own behavior, considered how my actions might inadvertently fuel his. I also accepted that some behaviors were too entrenched, too instinctive to train away. You can't stop a badger from digging, and you can't stop my husband from losing his wallet and keys.
PROFESSIONALS talk of animals that understand training so well they eventually use it back on the trainer. My animal did the same. When the training techniques worked so beautifully, I couldn't resist telling my husband what I was up to. He wasn't offended, just amused. As I explained the techniques and terminology, he soaked it up. Far more than I realized.
Last fall, firmly in middle age, I learned that I needed braces. They were not only humiliating, but also excruciating. For weeks my gums, teeth, jaw and sinuses throbbed. I complained frequently and loudly. Scott assured me that I would become used to all the metal in my mouth. I did not.
One morning, as I launched into yet another tirade about how uncomfortable I was, Scott just looked at me blankly. He didn't say a word or acknowledge my rant in any way, not even with a nod.
I quickly ran out of steam and started to walk away. Then I realized what was happening, and I turned and asked, "Are you giving me an L. R. S.?" Silence. "You are, aren't you?"
He finally smiled, but his L. R. S. has already done the trick. He'd begun to train me, the American wife.
Amy Sutherland is the author of "Kicked, Bitten and Scratched: Life and Lessons at the Premier School for Exotic Animal Trainers" (Viking, June 2006). She lives in Boston and in Portland, Me.

I'm in love...

2007-01-08T14:39:00.000-05:00

...with the Build-a-Bear store

Adventure off Exit 16

2007-01-07T07:18:00.000-05:00

Last night was a very interesting night. Have you ever had one of those moments where you are pissed at yourself for being in what I like to call an "avoidable situation"? Well, I had one of those, and here's what happened:

So, I went to Kesha's baby shower yesterday where I had a wonderful time. My best friend's birthday is Tuesday, so I had to finish putting together her birthday gift basket and one of the items I needed was at Annapolis Mall. I wanted to get there before it closed, and you know me, I couldn't just wait until the next day, so I raced out after the baby shower down Route 50. I got the gift, which it took a little longer than I had anticipated, but was fun. (I'll tell you all what it is later...I don't want her to read it before her birthday.) I got back in the car, and got back on the highway headed home, which is where my adventure began.

About five minutes after I got on the highway, I happened to look at my gas meter and noticed that I had NO gas, well, at least it was very close to the empty line. I was at least a 20 minute ride from home, so I had no choice but to get off the highway and find gas station. I took the nearest exit, which was exit 16, just assuming that there is a gas station everywhere...WRONG. I drove off the exit and saw nothing! I didn't have enough gas go get back on the highway and drive to the next exit, so I decided to drive for a while (during which my car started to inform me that I had low fuel and making that annoying beeping sound) and find a gas station. Oh, I found a gas station all right. Some old back woods country market/gas station/law office which was CLOSED. Closed at 9 p.m.??? So, imagine this: I am sitting in the middle of nowhere at some back woods gas station in a serious panic because I don't have enough gas to drive around and try to find another gas station AND I realized that I didn't look at the exit I took off, so I can't even tell anyone how to find me. I figure I would have to sleep there overnight until whoever owned the joint came and opened it in the morning so I could fill up.

I called Amatullah, who is my hero (I swear), and I told her the name of the street I was sitting on and this chica found me and brought me gas. The first gas container's nozzle was too short for my car. You all should have seen us out there trying to get that gas in my car. Gasoline was all over our hands and everything. It wasn't working, so she decided to leave and get a gas container with a longer nozzle. So, this time, I had to sit in my car and wait for her with the windows down cause I didn't want to breathe in the fumes from the gasoline. I didn't go with her, because I didn't want to leave my car and come back and it was gone for whatever reason. All in all, she returned and we finally got the gas in my car, which was great. Three hours folks...three hours of my evening wasted because I failed to check my gas meter. It was definitely an "avoidable situation"!

So, what have I learned from this? Note the following:

- Listen to my father who always tells me to never let my gas meter go under half a tank.
- Keep bottled water in your trunk always (It really came in handy when I needed to rinse the gasoline off my hands.)
- Get a cell phone charger for my car. My cell phone was fine last night, but if the battery was low, I don't know what I would have done.
- Always double check things.
- Continue to be good to people cause you never know when you're gonna need someone to find you and bring you gas!

THANK YOU, AMATULLAH!!! I'll owe you forever, I swear!

And, the changes are starting...

2007-01-03T22:08:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I had a feeling at the end of December that 2007 was going to be a great year. Alhamdullah, I can say that it's already starting to change for me. I had an interview today for the lead teacher of a Head Start classroom, and I was offered the position, for which I accepted; therefore, in about two weeks, I will return to the classroom with about 16 four-year olds, and I have a feeling that I'm gonna love it! I am really happy about it and I'm sure my blogs will be more interesting because of it. I also need to get my application out because, insh'Allah, I plan to pursue a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education starting the Fall semester of this year.

Alhamdullah, this year feels promising. Happy New Year!!

Friendship

2006-12-28T11:37:00.000-05:00

What is friendship? Throughout my twenty-eight years, I've learned that there are many definitions of the word, but the key to experiencing true friendship is finding those people whose definition is the same as yours. I think that's where people tend to fall off when it comes to their "friends". They go through experiences with certain people who they labeled as a friend, but then that person will turn around and do something that isn't, in their mind, considered something a friend would do. I've learned that it's not that at all...it's just that everyone has a different definition of what friendship means; when certain actions don't fall under your definition, the relationship becomes confusing. They have confused a friend with an associate.

I am blessed to have found people whose definition of frienship matches my own. Our definition states that a friend is one who is G-d fearing, kind, considerate, selfless, caring, honest, trustworthy, dependable, is not sneaky, does not envy, enjoys your company, has your best interest at heart at all times, and whose smile has nothing behind it except great intentions. When you find people who share your definition, there is an instant attraction, and the friendship is difficult to break...these friendships are long-lasting and truly cherished.

To all my friends, thank you for your frienship and I pray that I am being a friend to you as well.

The scores are in...

2006-12-21T17:39:00.000-05:00

ALHAMDULLAH, I PASSED THE PRAXIS!!!! All praises are due to Allah (swt). 2007 looks like it's going to be a year for change.

I have to give a huge THANK YOU to Azizah who gave me a Praxis I study guide a few years back which REALLY came in handy. Thanks for helping me pass, Miss!

Shame, Shame, Shame

2006-12-18T11:47:00.000-05:00

The other day I was bored and decided to do some rearranging around the house. I have this "closet" in which I keep products that I rarely use. I decided to move these things to another place in the house when I realized the horror. I have so much stuff that I just buy, but never end up using...it's crazy. I could open my own Bath and Body Works stand. The picture above only represents about 60% of these products that I have, but don't use. Remember folks, these are the products I DON'T use...I have another "closet" for the ones I do use. So, I guess I can't buy anything else for myself until all these things are gone...although I know that's a promise I'll break in a day. If I had all the money back that I've spent on products that I don't use, I could probably use it to pay my car note this month.

The sad thing is Bath and Body Works is having it's semi-annual sale beginning December 27th. I live for these sales cause things are up to 75% off...I'll just stock up for the year and then I won't buy anything else.....hopefully....

Deeper than Aesthetics...

2006-12-16T09:18:00.000-05:00

Over the years, I have come across many people who believe it is my responsibility to "support" the Muslim community through functions such as banquets, dances, conventions, fashion shows, etc. What these people fail to realize is that my support runs deeper than the aesthetics of it all. If I've chosen to attend any of the following in the past, or choose to in the future, know that it was only for entertainment and never in the name of "support". My idea of "support" is actual work in order to make a difference...hmmmm, for example, like working at Clara Muhammad School for four years. The community was in need of a teacher, and that was my field; therefore, I went to work there as a means of "support". I accepted a below D.C. poverty level salary, which we never received on time, as a means of "support". I worked for four years with no medical or dental insurance as a means of "support". I taught students with outdated textbooks and obtained things they needed in order to receive a quality education by spending parts of my salary on materials for them as a means of "support". I attended various Muslim schools throughout my educational career; therefore, I "supported" younger Muslim students by serving as a role model for them as various educators had done for me. After four years of "support", I left to pursue other interest, but still manage to keep a "supportive" relationship with the school, the teachers, and the students. Therefore, the next time anyone feels the need to question me based on the fact that I decline to eat dried chicken, veggies, and red potatoes at a banquet, twirl around on a dance floor, sit in a room and listen to various lectures at a convention, and/or watch folks walk back and forth in semi-impressive clothing at a fashion show in the name of "support", make sure you check my track record, accept the decision I've made for myself (cause I'm grown), and either begin another topic of conversation or keep your ass moving.

I Got Tagged...

2006-12-07T15:00:00.000-05:00

Ha Ha...so, I've been tagged...thanks Muneera, I think...

Here are the rules: Each player of the game starts with the "6 weird things about you". People who get tagged need to write a blog of their own 6 weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end you need to choose six people to be tagged and list their names. Don't forget to leave a comment that says 'you're tagged' in their comments and tell them to read your blog.

It was really hard coming up with six things I consider weird about myself. I'm pretty sure other folks could have 10 pages of weird things they think I do, but because I do them, I consider them normal :). So, I guess these are six things I'll admit that I consider weird about myself.

1. I LOVE the movie Annie...always have, always will...know every line by heart. But, that's not the weird thing. The weird thing is that every since I saw the scene where Daddy Warbucks gives her the locket, I've been obsessed with the blue box and the white ribbon and had vowed to one day have one myself. It wasn't until I was much older that I realized that it was from Tiffany & Co. (although they do state that in the movie, but hell, I didn't know what Tiffany's was...I grew up in SE, DC so it never clicked). So, I've been obsessed with having something from Tiffany & Co. only because of the blue box and the white ribbon...it's not that I care so much about the actual jewelry, I just want the box and the ribbon. (HINT: So, if and when I get serious about some guy and he happens to hint around for suggestions about a wedding ring from anyone, be sure to tell him that if he wants me to say yes, make sure it comes in a blue box with a white ribbon, ahem...)

2. I won't eat from places that sound disgusting. For example, there is this sandwich shop in GA that has a reputation for having the greatest sandwiches, but I never ate from there because the place was named "Gutbusters"...there is also a place in MD that I won't step foot in cause the name of the place is "Potbelly". I mean, I really don't want to think about big stomachs when I'm eating my food...

3. I take showers at the most random times for no reason whatsoever. I'll just be at home in the middle of watching a movie or doing whatever, and just all of a sudden stop just to go take a shower. Strange...I just love showers. If I'm home all day without going out, I'll probably average about four or five showers that day.

4. Speaking of showers, I don't feel clean unless I finish myself off with a shower gel. It's the weirdest thing. I will wash all over with soap and be extra clean, but if I don't finish it off with a nice shower gel, I don't feel "complete" when I step out.

5. I get seriously annoyed when people fail to use their turn signals when changing lanes or making turns. I mean, THAT'S WHAT THEY ARE THERE FOR!!! I don't know why it pisses me off, but it does. I may have to seek counseling for it...

6. I love to eat microwave popcorn with Hershey's Chocolate Syrup on it. I also love to chew Bazooka Joe bubble gum, but only if I have a cup of milk to drink while i'm chewing it...I love the taste the combination makes.

Ok, well, I'm tagging Sherifah and Sara...yeah, Sara, you didn't get off the hook! Those are the only two I know with blogs that Muneera hasn't gotten to yet.

Happy Birthday To Me

2006-12-05T21:59:00.000-05:00

Tuesday's Child is full of grace...
(I was born on a Tuesday and today is Tuesday...I'm loving it)

So, I'm 28...Alhamdullah, I've made it this far. Today was a beautiful day...very peaceful and relaxing. The moon was so visible this morning when I was on my way to work that I had to take a picture of it from the car. I tend to keep my camera in my purse for moments like this. This was the start to a very relaxing day.

After work, I had planned to spend the evening in, but my mom wanted to go to dinner, so we went to Red Lobster cause it was close. To my surprise, I ran into this guy I knew a couple of years ago while waiting to be seated. So, we stood there, catching up on old business and I threw in there that today is my birthday. I got a happy birthday hug and a smile, then our table was called, so we said our "good-byes and nice seeing you agains". So, I'm sitting there having a GREAT dinner (I've underestimated Red Lobster) and enjoying my mom's company. When we were done, we asked for the bill to which our waitress tells us that our ticket had been taken care of. Of course, I'm sitting there like "you must be mistaken" and she's like, "No, the gentleman over there took care of it and said to wish you a happy birthday". I was truly pleasantly surprised and went over to thank him and swore to "keep in touch" like folks always say to each other, but never really do. I just thought that was sweet, so my birthday began and ended on a nice note.

Thank you everyone for all your birthday wishes!!!

No Category

2006-12-04T12:15:00.000-05:00

The card industry needs to focus on cards that are geared towards folks who aren't necesarily "friends" but hold more than the "associate" title. I went looking for a birthday card for a "between friend and associate" and found that none of them fit what I wanted to say. The "friend" cards didn't really fit the person and to give it would just be a lie, but the plain "Happy Birthday" cards just didn't do it for me either...like I owed the person a little more than that. If anyone from Hallmark is reading this, you all need a card that says something like "You're a great person whose company I enjoy, but I wouldn't call you with my business....Happy Birthday".

Curosity Killed the Cat...

2006-11-28T11:16:00.000-05:00

So...............I had a very interesting conversation (or rather she was talking and I was listening) with a co-worker that is worth blogging...

A co-worker of mine, who is a grandmother of a few, informed me of an interesting conversation that took place at her house the evening before. It seems that her son's sons, who are eleven and twelve years old, confronted their father about oral sex (which they heard about at school). The father was so upset that his children would ask him such a thing that he put them in the car and drove them to his mother's house (my co-worker) and told them to tell their grandmother what they said to him. So, the boys were like, "Grandma, what's oral sex?" Now, what I expected to come after that was completely different from what actually happened. She said she sat them down and explained to them, in serious detail, what oral sex is...she told them all about the "finger test"; told them that "if you get down there and it doesn't smell right, don't trust it"; told them exactly what to do to make the girl happy, and then proceeded to give both of them condoms and told them to keep them on them at all times. So, of course I'm sitting there HORRIFIED at what I'm hearing. She explained that she would rather them feel comfortable getting the information from a "valuable source" rather than getting it off the street and that she wants them to feel like they can ask anything and receive an honest answer from family....after all her explaining one of the grandsons asked her if she has oral sex...WHO ASKS THEIR GRANDMOTHER THAT QUESTION????

Now, this is where I ask the reader: Is it acceptable to tell children the details of sex and provide them with suggestions and equipment in this day in time? I mean, has the world really gotten to the point where it is just FINE to sit down eleven and twelve year old boys and give them detailed descriptions of sexual encounters in the name of being open and honest? I mean, is that REALLY OK???? Do children need to have all their curiosities answered when they want them answered? What ever happened to "Sex is something that happens between married couples....THE END and don't ask me again or I'll beat your ass...you are a child and shouldn't be concerned with adult topics...go ride your bike!" What happened to that time cause it did exist back in the day...

Bad Words

2006-11-25T21:13:00.000-05:00

1) Genuine: True; really what it is said to be.

2) Virgin: pure; chaste

3) Friend: a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

I never knew three words could be so negative.

A Week for the Believers

2006-11-25T20:38:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, we buried Imam Rasul Madyun. Today, we buried Sister Mu'minah Saleem-Sharif...it has truly been a special week, for both of these people moved many because of the unshakable belief they had in the Creator. We lost Imam Rasul suddenly after he suffered an aneurysm. We lost Sister Mu'minah after battling breast cancer for a few years. Rasul's Janazah was cold and rainy; Sister Mu'minah's Janazah was warm and sunny...both were beautiful days to bury the Believers. There were so many similarities with these two when it came to Islam that it is somewhat soothing that they shared this week. The most important characteristic they shared was their love for Allah (swt) and their ability to inspire others through their passion for this beautiful religion named Al-Islam. May Allah (swt) bless them both with a place in Paradise.

Early Thanksgiving morning, around 12:15 a.m., I got the call that Sister Mu'minah had passed and immediately got up to meet the family at the hospital. I had never seen a soul-less body before, but the experience was very calming because she looked so peaceful. Amatullah and I stayed in the room with her for a while and I have to admit that, although we will miss her truly and dearly, it was wonderful to know that her illness was over. She was a very special woman who I credit for helping me to establish my faith in Allah (swt) throughout my life. I love her and will miss her always. So, this Thanksgiving, I was thankful to Allah (swt) for blessing me with the love, kindness, wisdom, truly inspiring/unshakable faith, and ALL the laughter that Sister Mu'minah brought for 27 years of my life. She was a blessing...

I just have to give a "shout-out" to Amatullah. For months, I watched her take care of her mother like a true child should. It was very inspiring and moving to see her put aside the needs and wants for herself and focus 100% of her attention on her mother. I know that Sister Mu'minah was very proud and appreciative to have Amatullah for her daughter. I can't express to the reader how humbling it was to watch the roles reverse. I just pray that if my parents ever need me that I can be half as strong, willing, and effective as Amatullah was for Sister Mu'minah. May Allah (swt) bless her for all her efforts.

A Carrie Bradshaw Moment...

2006-11-19T18:57:00.000-05:00

There is a lot going on around me that I have no control over, so when I want to clear my mind or not face the realities of the world, I lock myself in my room for hours with my heater blasting (I love the coziness of heat) and pop something great into the DVD player. This weekend, I revisited the first three seasons of Sex and the City, a show that I fell in love with after being introduced to it by a great friend (THANKS MUNEERA!!). Ok, so I'm up to the point where Carrie is in a relationship with Aiden (a guy who is just perfect for her), yet she continues to want Mr. Big (a guy who constantly shyt on her life).

So, this got me thinking about myself and others that I've encountered and makes me ask my own question: What is it about the person who treated you like shyt that is so damn attractive? Isn't that a little sick and twisted? I can only speak for myself here, but I fell victim to that once too...wanting someone who was just wrong for me and to this day I still can't understand why I accepted half the crap I went through with him. In one episode she asks "Do we need drama to make a relationship work?" Answer: HELL NO. I consider myself a wanter of the "drama-free" relationship, or at least as drama free as possible, but I can't help but admit that the one guy I really wanted to be with brought serious, truly unnecessary, energy-draining drama to my life and I failed to cut the cord. I found myself pissed at times constantly wondering what the hell was wrong with me, but the attraction stuck until I just couldn't deal anymore...but this went on for YEARS. Carrie didn't go off on Mr. Big until after six years and get this: they STILL ended up together! I don't know where I'm trying to go with this blog, all I know is that watching this show this weekend made me think of my past and wonder why I was so attracted to my "Mr. Big". And, to be honest, I still don't know the answer to that question.

Goal Accomplished (somewhat)

2006-11-18T17:04:00.000-05:00

I did it...I took the Praxis I exam today. I left feeling like I had accomplished my goal...now, I have a new goal: passing it. I feel very strongly that I passed the reading and writing part, but those math questions were HELL. After reading the first one, I felt that I was doomed for the entire section. I should have taken it as a sign when I the test administrator asked who was there to only take the math section and about 75% of the people raised their hands. That shyt was HARD...maybe it was just me, but I really don't think it was. I am confident that I answered 5 out of the 40 questions correctly. The only way I passed that section is if I picked the right letters to bubble in...otherwise, I'll be taking that section again.

Ok, just let me vent about standardized testing for a minute...

I don't believe there is anything wrong with standardized testing except that time crap! I truly believe the folks who are in charge of these test should reconsider the time they give people to take it. For example, me and the math section of the Praxis: ALL of the problems were word problems. This means I had to read the problem, figure out how to solve the problem and actually solve the problem...I had to do this 40 times and I only had 60 minutes...yeah the hell right! THEN, let's talk about the writing section. Now, I consider myself a strong writer (don't judge me by this blog, I could care less about punctuation, grammar rules and all that stuff on here). Today, we had 30 minutes to read a question, mentally answer the question, organize our thoughts so that we could write an essay about the question, then actually write the damn essay...all in 30 minutes? Ummmmm, maybe if I was typing, but I was writing...and then we had to use a pen on top of that...pissed me off. I believe I did well on that part, but still...30 minutes is not enough time to do all that and come out with a top notch essay.

All I can say is congratulations to all those who passed that math section cause that right there was 60 minutes of torture on my Saturday...I get my scores in four weeks, so in the meantime, I'll be studying math, cause I'm pretty sure I have to take that part again.

But, all in all, I'm glad I finally took the test. I did accomplish THAT goal :). Oh, and I got my hair done on Thursday, so it was nice and fresh for the test, although no one knew that but me...lol.

Alhamdullah!!

2006-11-15T19:10:00.000-05:00

I just got word that Imam Rasul's operation was a success and he is in recovery! Allah (swt) answered our prayers, and we are grateful for that! And, on top of everything else, today is his wife's birthday, so I know this is a wonderful present for her! Just wanted to spread the joyful news.

Correction

2006-11-15T14:49:00.000-05:00

One of my previous entries stated that Imam Rasul had a stroke. I just learned from my mom that this is incorrect. He had an aneurysm and will have surgery soon. Insh'Allah, please keep him and his family in your prayers.

Free Therapy

2006-11-15T11:46:00.000-05:00

This time of year always gets a little touchy for me, but the touchiness is not nearly as bad as it used to be. In 20 days, Insh’Allah, I’ll turn another year older. My mom LIVES for this time of the year, because it is extremely special for her. I’ve always known this, which is why I’ve made it a point to smile and appear full of grace no matter how I felt. Through the parties, the families, the friends, the gifts, and all the joy that birthdays bring, there were many times I couldn’t tune into it all. The love and happiness were great, but I could never shake the thought of knowing that it was the day I parted from the girl who had carried me close to her for the first nine months of my existence.

There are certain factors that shape the way people live their lives and adoption has always been an important one of mine. I’ve always known I was adopted as far back as I can remember, although I don’t remember the exact moment when I was told or the words used to tell me. My parents have always been very open regarding the matter; never trying to keep anything from me, even when I didn’t want to hear it. Although I had many questions, I never liked talking about and always seemed to avoid the subject of adoption with my parents. I just never wanted to seem like I didn’t appreciate all that they had done for me by continuously bringing up the fact that I wasn’t a part of them, and honestly, I didn’t want to keep reminding myself.

My beginning, which is too accepted now-a-days, wasn’t as accepted back in the late 1970s. My biological mother was a fifteen year old girl and my biological father was a seventeen year old boy. I guess they thought each other was cute, he said the right thing to her, she ate the shit up, ba da boom, ba da bang, the stork is preparing for flight. She cared for me by caring for herself during the first nine months of my existence, but made a smart decision to allow someone who was better able to care for me to do so. My mother told me that she and my father were so excited when they got the word that a girl was putting her baby up for adoption and they were going to be proud parents, once again, in nine months. My mother said that they were able to plan for me the entire nine months as though she were pregnant, which was a very special and exciting time. So, I guess you can say we formed a bond even before we met. At three days old, I met my new family and I’ve been with them ever since. (Wait, now that I think about it, that should be a celebration day as well…hey, anyone who knows me knows I’ll find any reason to have a party).

I can’t say that it has been emotionally easy to deal with, but at the same time I am truly blessed that Allah (swt) blessed me with a wonderful family. As far back as I can remember, I’ve strived to be a benefit to them and not a burden, which is why I was always cautious of the decisions I made. I guess that’s where the “think about others before you think about yourself” comes in. I just never wanted them to regret the decision they made to adopt me, and for me, that always weighed heavy on my mind…too heavy at times.

My therapy session is getting kinda long, so I’m going to wrap it up. I just want to end with voicing my goal to adopt because I’ve always wanted to. I would LOVE to bestow the blessing upon someone else that was bestowed upon me. I also feel it’s important to be there to support the emotional side that comes with adopted children. It is such a blessing to have people in your life who love and care for you and consider you as family, but I’d be a serious liar if I said that the disconnection from that biological part doesn’t have an affect on me in ways I sometimes hate to admit to myself. If I can comfort that part of someone else, I am so ready. As I’ve gotten older, and truly began to understand that Allah (swt) is the best of planners, I’ve found it a lot easier to cope.

I could go on forever about this topic, but I’ll stop here before you all start charging me…

Be Grateful

2006-11-14T20:14:00.000-05:00

Whenever I'm feeling down about something, Allah (swt) shows me that I am truly blessed, which makes me feel stupid for complaining about my extremely minor issues. There are so many things going on in this world that give me absolutely NO reason to complain about my state, and for that I sincerely ask for forgiveness. Today, my best friend called and told me the horrible news that Imam Rasul had a stroke. I was stunned at the moment, like the wind had been knocked out of me. I got to know Rasul through working with him at CMS for two years and through that experience, I found him to be very intelligent, very kind, and just full of a joyful spirit. He was the other "young teacher" so we saw eye to eye about a lot of stuff at our job and joked a lot to keep our sanity. I was completely shocked when I heard this news. I immediately thought of his wife and prayed that Allah (swt) bless her and their families with comfort and mercy. I pray that he makes a great recovery from this. Man, you just never know what the day will bring, and when things like this happen, I just hate the fact that I feel like I have something to complain about.

My second mom, Sister Mu'minah, is fighting breast cancer. I pray for her every day, each time I think about her. My best friend is such an inspiration and a blessing right now. She has not hesitated in being there for her mother and assisting in her every need. I love to go over and visit, but I try to remain considerate of Sister Mu'minah's condition. One day, I was given the honor of feeding her dinner, which I truly enjoyed. It was funny how she directed me in doing that...if you know Sister Mu'minah, you know what I mean :). It is such a blessing to be able to do things for someone who did so much for you and who you know would be right there for you if the situation were reversed. I love her sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much, and I pray that Allah (swt) comforts and bestows His mercy upon them. Times like these make you appreciate everyone and everything around you so much more.

I just ask everyone who reads this to keep all their families in their prayers. I pray that Allah (swt) forgives me for not having 100% faith 100% of the time and remove those times where I find myself forgetting about the blessings and mercy He has bestowed upon me. I pray that Allah (swt) never turn away from us, for if He does, there is nothing or no one to protect or to help us.

Looking Back...

2006-11-13T19:16:00.000-05:00

When I was younger, I believed that if I lived my life a certain way, I was guaranteed a certain outcome; if I was good and good to others, striving to demonstrate no signs of selfishness, always reliable and helpful when needed, then I would be rewarded with a happy life. At the almost age of 28, I'm finding that I was mistaken. As I look back on my life, I find that the majority of the choices I've made, those that altered my path and placed me where I am today, were due to making sure my family, friends, and/or community were ok. I sacrificed too many things that I wanted for myself for the sake of others, which has resulted in a loss of my personal happiness. I'll be 28 in less than a month and as my mind replays the majority of the choices I've made, all I can seem to think is that I wish I had been just a little selfish...

No Homework? Oh, really?

2006-11-01T15:05:00.000-05:00

I have to share this story with you all cause it's that funny:

One of the parents at my center was concerned because he noticed his son wasn't receiving homework sheets to complete as often as he did at the beginning of the school year. The parent contacted the teacher who informed him that the director of the center told the teachers not to give out ditto sheet homework assignments due to the amount of paper teachers use when xeroxing. The parent, in turn, called the director, and I don't know how that conversation went. Next thing you know, the parent pulls up to the school with $500 worth of xerox paper he bought from Staples like "Here, problem solved...make sure my son gets homework tonight." I mean there were BOXES of xerox paper...I was CRACKING up...

See, the reason he was so into his child getting homework is because he noticed that the child's mother actually sits with the child and takes time out to help him complete it. When he doesn't have homework, that doesn't happen, so not only was he concerned about his child's education, but he was also concerned about his son's bonding time with his mother.

That was just so funny when it happened...man, be careful what you tell people cause you never know what they will do...

Job Counts...

2006-10-30T11:50:00.000-05:00

Five Reasons I LOVE My Job

5. The children at my school are so much fun. Although I don't work with them directly, I still get hugs everyday.
4. Some of my co-workers are true comedians and have me laughing all day long.
3. Depending on who calls in sick, this office can definitely be a place of peace for eight hours.
2. The check is always on time and directly deposited into my account...oh, and I have benefits. (This is important because I taught at a Muslim school for four years without these things).
1. Helping someone achieve something they really need is a wonderful feeling.

Twenty Reasons I HATE My Job

20. Folks act like my name is so hard to pronounce, so they decide to say it the way they choose, but then wonder why I don't respond when they call me AR-knee-sha, A-knee-si-ah, Selena, Saleen, Sha-leen, etc.
19. Upper Management is so pressed for folks to check their email although you ONLY hear about office news through the grapevine...like, what's the point? "We have a meeting today? Really? Thanks for telling me, Sandy, cause it definitely wasn't in my email."
18. Folks refuse to answer their phones, KNOWING it's for them!! Why the hell does someone else have to answer the phone and you KNEW it was for you....folks always want to be made to feel like they have personal secretaries in this camp.
17. Myspace is blocked for my daily entertainment.
16. The internet is so damn slow...
15. Supplies needed to do my job are not always readily available...
14. Some of my co-workers are so inconsiderate of their noise level. Just because you fell in love with Yolanda Adam's last CD doesn't mean I want to praise Jesus all day every day...nor do I feel the need to join in and/or LISTEN to your sing-a-long.
13. Thirty minute meetings last for two hours because some of my co-workers don't understand that a meeting is not the proper time and/or place to discuss your PERSONAL issues that have absolutely NOTHING to do with our job.
12. I'm not utilizing my skills to their full potential and I find myself growing lazy because of my environment.
11. This place doesn't meet my sanitary requirement level. If they keep playing, I'm calling Fox 5.
10. You have to live in fear for eight hours that some knuckle-headed kid is outside spray painting your damn car.
9. Some of my co-workers talk too damn much, all day long about absolutely nothing.
8. I'm the youngest one in my office, but you wouldn't know that through conversing with some of these chicks.
7. My manager asks me dumb ass questions as an effort to start a conversation then wonders why I look at her like she's stupid.
6. Some of the parents I work with seriously drain me simply because they refuse to do anything for themselves, they want too many handouts, and love to complain about problems they bring on themselves.
5. I work with parents who should have never been allowed to procreate...although I can't make that judgement cause I'm not Allah (swt). I'll just say their parenting skills are horrible.
4. The Director of this program is a miserable woman who wants everyone around her to be just as miserable...if she thinks I'm falling for it, she's got it twisted.
3. The time moves very slow in this place.
2. I can't bring my lunch to work because I don't trust the refrigerator or microwave.
1. Upper Management are idiots who swear they know it all...Fox 5 definitely needs to be notified.

I think the scale is broken...

2006-10-27T11:16:00.000-05:00

...cause the sucka won't move! Alhamdullah, I lost ten pounds over the last month and my goal is to lose ten more by my birthday, which is in December. I've gotten so excited about my ten pound drop, that I think I'm stuck cause the scale won't move. Over the last month, I have changed my diet, which I believe contributed to my weight loss (well, that and fasting). I stopped eating fast food and found healthy alternatives, cut out the snacking all day long, cut out the sodas, cut out the candy...just tried to cut out all those things I am used to and find healthy alternatives, which actually worked. Now that I'm not fasting anymore, I have kept my habit of eating healthy, no snacking all day, etc. I make sure to take my multi-vitamin every morning, which is still hard since I don't consider myself a daily pill popper, but the scale won't move. Insh'Allah, I'll try some new things to get the weight off in November...probably start exercising more regularly, which I really need to do. I have a friend who LOVES to exercise and I wish I could take on her enthusiasm about it. I guess I just have to find something I love to do that I can do on a three times a week basis. I pray I can reach my goal by December. That will be a great birthday present to myself.

Men and their toys...

2006-10-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

A co-worker decided he wanted to treat me to lunch today, so I accepted. So, we jumped in his car and headed to Whole Foods. As soon as I closed the door and buckled my seat belt, I notice all the gadgets he had in there...a tv here, a tv there, a remote to this, a remote to that...he's driving while we're watching a DVD and the whole time I'm wondering, "Isn't this dangerous? I mean, watching a movie and listening to the radio are totally different while operating a vehicle." It was so funny how he used a remote to control something that was in his reach...I just had to sit back and chuckle about that one. Men and their toys...funny.

Circle Time Success

2006-10-26T09:48:00.002-05:00

I love to spread the joy of Eid. Those who know me know I LOVE to give gifts and decided to pass out candy on Eid day. So, I went to Costco and found Chocolate wrapped like gold coins and decided that it would be cute to pass those out on Eid and give some to my non-Muslim co-workers as well. I ended up making these cute gifts for my co-workers. I took two coins and wrapped them with pre-cut tool (I think that's how you spell it), attached a note that said "Eid Mubarak" with a brief explanation of the holiday and tied it to the candy with gold ribbon. They came out really pretty. As I passed them out to my co-workers, everyone expressed their gratitude and asked questions about Eid and Ramadan. One of the teachers was so interested that he asked me if I would talk to his students about Eid. So, of course I say "SURE!" I used to teach and miss it dearly, so getting back in the classroom for a presentation seemed exciting. As I prepared my power point presentation in my head about Ramadan and Eid, the thought hit me..."Wait, they are three years old. Wow...how am I going to explain Ramadan and Eid to three year olds while making it interesting??" I thought about it and thought about it and decided to read them a story, but found that I didn't have one. So, I decided to make them a coloring page that said "Happy Eid" with Eid Mubarak written in Arabic, and give them chocolate treats as well. That took care of the "gift" portion, but what was I going to tell them? I decided to wing it and go with whatever came out of my mouth when I got there. This made me really nervous, because I'm used to always being prepared. So, I just asked Allah (swt) to bless me with the words to tell these children about this wonderful holiday and ALHAMDULLAH, it went sooooooooooooo well. The children were VERY attentive and interested in everything I said. I made sure to include them in a lot by having them say "Eid Mubarak" to each other and things like that. I also colored one of the pictures and colored each Arabic letter a different color and we went over how to spell Eid Mubarak in Arabic. It was really nice. At the end, I gave each child their own chocolate candy gift, which they were VERY excited about. They gave me a "roller coaster" at the end which is their way of clapping...it was too cute.

Oh, the horror...

2006-10-24T15:22:00.000-05:00

Only 14 minutes until the end of the work day and my co-workers are sitting here having a IN-DEPTH conversation about various liquors...I'm feeling drunk just listening to them...I swear I'm made to sit and listen to the worst conversations known to man in this office...times like this I wish I had a sound proof cubicle...YA ALLAH!

Blown on Eid Day...

2006-10-24T09:01:00.000-05:00

Ok, so my Masjid projected for Eid to fall on Tuesday, so all the festivities were planned for Tuesday. Eid actually came on Monday, which threw a lot of people off, including myself. The Eid prayers were prayed at the Masjid on Monday, but it was announced that the festivities would still take place on Tuesday. I was a little blown since I had taken off work Monday and now I wouldn't have an Eid celebration to attend. After the prayer, two of my friends informed me that Eid festivities were taking place in Baltimore, which is about a 30 to 45 minute drive from DC. We decided to go there since we had all taken off and wanted to partake in some kind of Eid celebration. While there, I ran into a guy who I hadn't seen since 9th grade. His sister and I were great friends. Since she is in the military and had been to Japan, Iraq, etc., we sorta lost touch. When I saw him I was truly happy that maybe I would be able to contact her again. Imagine my surprise when he told me that she was in DC, but would be returning to Oklahoma in a few days, so of course I wanted to see her and gave him my number to give to her and everything. So, we chatted on and off the entire day...real cool guy. (Rewind: this was my second time seeing him because I saw him the previous Saturday at an Iftaar where we spoke very briefly). Ok, so after talking to him and all this, one of my friends asked me what his name was. Before that moment, I had never even thought that I didn't say his name, although he had said mine a few times, which meant he knew it...that's when I remembered that I didn't remember his name. I mean, I hadn't seen this guy for a good fourteen years and even then, we didn't talk like that. I mean, he was a year below us and he was my friend's little brother, so come to think of it, I doubt I knew his name then. Anyway, she tells me to ask him, which isn't an option since we had talked so much that at this point it would be extremely embarrasing if I was like, "By the way, what's your name?" I mean, it was really too late for me to ask. So, I tell her to ask him simply because it wouldn't come off obvious that I didn't know it and wouldn't seem weird since she had never met him. But, instead of doing that simple task, she goes "She's too embarrassed to tell you this, but she doesn't remember your name." (Aneesah + comment = BLOWN) I'm not one to be easily embarrased and haven't felt embarrassment in years, but this TRULY embarrassed me. He looked pretty blown too as he told us his name.

Wow...yeah, I felt bad. I think the thing that blew me was having something done to me that I wouldn't do to someone else...

Hakuna Matata

2006-10-24T04:59:00.000-05:00

lol...I knew my last post would cause an outbreak of comments from those who know me, but ladies, no worries...I'm five months older. I've had five long months to think about the ENTIRE situation and be COMPLETELY honest with myself about it for once...besides, the closer I get to 30, the less crap I'm able to handle.

So, I called and he answered. When I heard his voice, I'll admit that I felt a hint of "I've missed him", but the feeling of "we're not doing this again" was a lot greater. The conversation pretty much went the same way I've heard it many times before...nothing was new, of course, and this time he did 95% of the talking. There was the "we've been friends for too long to be mad at each other", the "I've been thinking about you a lot", and the ever popular "I'm sorry". I've repeatedly heard these sentences as I've known him the last thirteen years of my life. The conversation was short...maybe about five minutes since I was at an event and he was obviously busy as well, but when I woke up the next morning, I noticed that I missed another call from him later in the evening, which I didn't feel the need to return.

I'm not going to write about my experiences with him over the last thirteen years because it has DEFINITELY been an emotional rollercoaster, but I will say that I believe I'm at a stage in my life where I've gotten off the ride while leaving the anger and bitterness in the seat...maybe that's why I called back. Who knows? Maybe we both needed that five minute conversation to move on. I have missed him, but I know that it is a combination of missing who he was years ago and missing the person I wanted him to be, not necessarily missing who he is now.

So, that's what it is now...I guess once we have our long talk where we are both completely honest with each other, we'll be ok. But, I honestly don't see that happening...

To answer, or not to answer? That is the question...

2006-10-22T05:37:00.000-05:00

SO.....I'm in the car driving to what promises to be a nice iftaar with some cool folks and food when my cell phone rings. I felt it vibrating in my purse by my feet, but at that moment, I was too lazy to even look and see who was calling, so I left it alone. I arrive at the iftaar and made my rounds: a kiss kiss here, hug hug there, said a few "Hey, haven't seen you in a while"s, smile for the camera here, smile for the camera there, hug a kid here, kiss a kid there, said a few "Wow, he's/she's gotten so big"s, a Ramadan Mubarak to the left, a Ramadan Mubarak to the right...the rounds are complete, so time to relax and eat (hey, that rhymed). So, I'm sitting laughing and eating with friends when a little birdie reminded me that I missed a call. I dig in my purse for my cell, click it open and see that not only have I've missed Muneera's call AGAIN, I see a name I haven't seen there for at least five months...wow...had to sit all the way back in the seat and pause with the question flashing in my mind: Call back or no? Hmmmm...needed advice on this one. I asked two close friends who were in tune with the situation whether or not I should call back...one decided on rock, paper, scissors for the answer, which resulted in I shouldn't...the other friend told me that I shouldn't and explained why, and her reasons were extremely valid. So, I decided not to call...but the question kept eating at me: why is this person calling me, ESPECIALLY during the month of Ramadan?? So, I called back hoping to get the voicemail, but he answered...

To be continued...

Stepping into my personal space block...

2006-10-20T17:03:00.000-05:00

Ok, I HATE being in line at the store and having the person behind me stand so dag-on close. I move up, he/she moves up...I move up a little more, he/she moves up a little more....I feel like turning around and yelling STOP FOLLOWING ME, DAMN!!!! What is up with that though? As Amatullah would say, "You plan on paying for my items, too? I mean, are we together??"

Oh, and the stupid comments/questions strangers feel the need to share blow me...they just get looked at with my blank face...for example:

Yesterday, I was in line at the grocery store. There was a lady in front of me who had her items on the belt. I had my items on the belt right behind hers and they were separated with the spacing thingy. So, this lady gets behind me and she has a LOT of groceries. She decides to be generous and let the lady behind her get in front of her because they lady only had like four items. Instead of putting her items on the belt, she decided to hold them, which was her business. So, get this: The cashier is done ringing up the lady in front of me, so my items slid up to the cashier. The lady behind me looks at my items on the belt and asks, "Are those yours?" (blank look while thinking "WHO THE HELL ELSE'S ARE THEY?) Items on belt next to ME plus ME equals MY ITEMS...she didn't get a response to that question. I mean, I know I must have seemed rude, but I figured she had to figure that out on her own..or at least she would get the answer when I walked away with the bags...

I try not to be rude, folks, but I mean, I can't think for everyone. I need others to use their brain power as well...

After three years of procrastinating, it happened today.

2006-10-19T07:58:00.000-05:00

I've been putting it off and putting it off, but this morning, I finally did it: I regsitered to take the Praxis I exam. The Praxis I exam is a Pre-professional exam consisting of reading, writing, and mathematics that all educators must take now-a-days for certification. I need to take it in order to apply to a Master's program, and this test is the only thing that has been stopping me from applying. So, Insh'Allah (G-d Willing), I will take it next month. I made myself apply today, since today is the deadline. If I hadn't registered today, I would have had to wait until January to take it since that's the next time it's being offered. One of my goals is to have this test taken by my birthday, which is in December, so I'm happy I'm going to be able to accomplish that...just pray for me that I pass it. I hate taking standardized test, which is probably why I kept putting it off. I'm itching to go back to school, so I had to do it...

On another note, you all don't know the Spider-Man moves I had to pull yesterday in order to get my Sims game. After three hours of searching, I finally found it and had to drive out to St. Charles Town Center to get it. The pathetic thing is St. Charles Town Center is a good thirty minute drive from where I live. The other stores have it on their shelves today, but I couldn't wait another day. Yes, it was that serious for me and, yes, it was definitely worth it.

I'm at work now, and yes, you guessed it...it's an "in-house annual" Thursday. I worked hard Monday and Tuesday, so I've put in my time for the week :)...

Tomorrow's going to be a great day!

2006-10-17T14:04:00.000-05:00

Why? Because the new expansion pack to The Sims 2 titled "The Sims 2: Pets" will make it's way to the shelves of stores everywhere. Anyone who truly knows me knows that I am a Sims addict. I'm such an addict that I am calling in late to work tomorrow just so I can be at Target when it opens and grab a copy...yeah, it's that serious. If I wait to go on my lunch break or after work and they are sold out, man, it's not gonna be pretty, so yes, it is that serious. AND, now that I have a laptop (Oh, thank you Allah (swt) for it), I will play at work for the rest of the day cause I'll be on what I like to call "in-house annual leave"...that's where I go to work, but do nothing pertaining to my job, so technically, I'm on leave, but since I'm physically at work, I'm still getting paid...but I digress. I've been waiting for this expansion pack since The Sims 2 came out, which was almost three years ago, so yes, a sista is excited...if you think I'm bad, you should visit the website and see all the folks who are more excited than me at www.thesims2.com. Click on the BBS, go to Pets and read all the hype...

This is nothing...in three months, the Seasons expansion pack is coming out...it's gonna be a riot! It's a shame that these are the things that get me excited about life, but hey, I'm about to be 28 in a little over a month, I'm single, and I don't have kids, so what do you expect? I look to technology to keep me entertained and to tell you the truth, I don't mind :).

I finally made up my mind...

2006-10-17T11:03:00.000-05:00

...and started a blog for myself. I love to read other people's blogs, so I figured I'd share my thoughts as well. I hope the reader gets something out of my posts, be it a good laugh, a good lesson, or just a good "what the hell is she talking about?" thought which strikes up the urge to comment. I look forward to reading comments about my posts as I've kept a journal since 7th grade and never once had a response to anything I've written, well, except when I would go back years later and comment on some of the things I wrote like, "You wrote this? Why?"...or, "Sounds like the same thing you wrote yesterday...give some variety, would ya?"...yeah, I get bored and do things like that...at least I did...

Well, until next time, my readers...