s k e t c h e d s o u l

Dear owner of this scarf,

Monday, March 10, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It all started November 30th, our launch of Warm The Streets! In a matter of days I already had scarves flowing in... right until the very last day, alhumduliLlah. Subhan'Allah, it never ceases to amaze me how giving some people are. May The Most Merciful reward them all tremendously, and may He continue to bless them with a healthy heart. Ameen.

Ah yes.. the scarves, all the way from Texas, Toronto, Saudi Arabia, Oklahoma, and the list goes on... We had a total of 74 scarves!

Here is a beautiful account of how much love went into just one of the scarves, The Rainbow Scarf, tabarak'Allah. I tried my best to appreciate that love and care, and made sure each scarf was individually wrapped, with a poem/letter added in (if there was no letter provided from the sender to accompany it).

Jazaki'Allahu khair The Stolen Light for composing the lovely poem.

Dearest owner of this scarf,
As you take this scarf and wrap it around your neck,
Know it was given with peace and love, to protect,
Through this small token we hope to touch your heart,
And know as one in humanity we stand together and not apart,
Accept our gift given with sincerity,
From your (Muslim) friends striving to live in harmony.

AlhumduliLlah, the scarves were delivered in February. May thanks to the Meals 4 You group. May Allah reward you for your phenomenal work. Ameen. The scarves were very well received! AlhumduliLlah. Additional feedback received was a request for socks.

Which brings us to next year.. yes.. next year, insha'Allah I pray we are able to run a Warm The Streets 2 - by providing them with socks for this one (in neutral colours). I look forward to having you join us.

May The Majestic keep our intentions pure and guide us to use the infinite blessings He has bestowed upon us in a way that pleases Him. Ameen.

Labels: help, love

posted by Sketched Soul at 1:49 PM | Permalink 15 comments

Save The Masjid

Friday, February 22, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Do we really need a motivational post to give ten dollars? Is that sad if we do? A whole ten dollars (that's $10.00).. surely we can bring ourselves to part with that much.

Anyway..
The building where the downtown mosque, Masjid Manhattan, is located has been sold. The new owner wants the place vacated by March 31, 2008. Our brothers and sisters need our support to buy a new building.

Established more than 25 years ago, the Masjid serves approximately fifteen hundred Muslims who work in near City Hall, Wall Street and the World Trade Center.

There is no place available for lease that would accommodate the large number of worshippers in the area; therefore, buying a building is the only option. The community has raised half the necessary money for the down payment but needs help with the rest.

Time is running out for March 31st deadline.
The goal is to reach 500 thousand people in the US and Canada who can pay 10 dollars each.

1. Make a cheque or money order payable to: Masjid Manhattan
(indicate the project you are donating to in the memo of your cheque)

Masjid Manhattan
P.O. Box 3432
Church Street Station,
New York, NY 10008

2. Online Donation: http://www.masjidmanhattan.com/Donations.aspx

3. Let others know about this.

4. Make Dua' to Allah that He saves this masjid.

May Allah Most High grant us with the means and ability to save this Masjid, and may He Most Merciful continue to bless this Ummah. Ameen.

Labels: help

posted by Sketched Soul at 4:54 PM | Permalink 8 comments

Tagged And Tagged Again

Thursday, February 21, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Please forgive me my dear readers for taking so long to post something (insha'Allah it's not just anything).. and my apologies to all those who have tagged me, and are waiting for some kind of response on my end. Jazak'Allahu khair for thinking of me and for your patience.

Note: I am not tagging anyone for these (and I have my reasons), but you are more than welcome to do any and don't forget to let me know, so I can visit your page, insha'Allah.

Well here it is:
I have been tagged by Al-Miskeenah, Don't Be Sad, A Wayfarer's Journey, The Imam's Daughter, Prism of thoughts...
Rules:
1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages)
2. Open the book to page 123
3. Find the 5th sentence
4. Post the next 3 sentences
5. Tag 5 people

Taken from The Book Of Assistance by Imam 'Abdullah Ibn 'Alawi Al-Haddad

"How many good things has He given you! How many a favour has He granted you! He is your Lord and Guardian, Who created and guided you, to whom your life and your death belong, Who gives you to eat and drink, Who provides and looks after you, Who shelters you and gives you refuge."

AlhumduliLlah.

Next up:
1. Link to the person that tagged you, in my case, Hijabi Apprentice
2. Post the rules on your blog
3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog

1. I have to eat (dinner) after Maghrib salaat - whether it is at 4pm or 9pm..that's just the way it goes.
2. I absolutely love driving, however, never, never ask me directions if you want to reach the right destination.
3. I think pop/soda has absolutely NO benefit, I don't drink it, refuse to buy it (even if it's on the grocery list - someone in the house has to make a special trip for that), and won't even pass it to you!
4. I can't stand inconsiderate behaviour, and totally love those who are considerate.
5. I love mint and maple flavouring - be it in chocolate, ice-cream, cake, toothpaste..hehe
6. When I'm mad, upset, annoyed, confused (and I'm sure there is more to that list), I go quiet..very quiet.

And:
I was tagged for this excellent meme, by The Muslimah, and Gulnarita
Rules
1. List 6 actions or achievements you think every person should accomplish before turning 18. There are no conditions on what can be included on the list.
2. Tag 6 more people and leave them a comment telling them they’ve been tagged.

1. Establish all your salaat, on time, and with full concentration.
2. Memorize the Qur'an, and constantly reflect on its meaning.
3. Don't talk a lot. Learn to say only what is best - this includes what you type.
4. Pray for the deceased, so that when you die someone will pray for you, insha'Allah.
5. Make it a habit to pray Surah al-Mulk every night.
6. Help others, as much as you possibly can.. either physically, through your prayers, by donating money (even if it is only one dollar), donating items, your time, etc. - Help others and Allah will help you, insha'Allah.

There we have it people. I hope I didn't miss any tags, or names of people who took the time to tag me. Sorry if I did.

Labels: me

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:46 AM | Permalink 14 comments

Bookmark Help Needed

Thursday, February 07, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Insha'Allah in June I would love to hold a Book & Bake sale, with all the proceeds going to the Orphanage in Africa.

I'd also like to sell bookmarks! If anyone is willing to help out, by making bookmarks please contact me (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) for a mailing address. There is no specifications, so design your heart out! (ie: it could be made out of paper, knitted, crocheted, out of metal, plastic, fabric, whatever else you like, inspirational, plain, funny, sad, written, typed, colourful, black and white, small, big, for the corner, etc. etc. - just think, would you use it?)

Last date to get them in: June 1st, 2008.

And for anyone living in and around Toronto (Canada) who can help with baked goods, please email me. I'd really appreciate all the help I can get.

Jazak'Allah for your time and effort.

Labels: help

posted by Sketched Soul at 1:16 PM | Permalink 17 comments

The Never Ending Swap

Saturday, January 19, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

In Islam, a gift is of extraordinary value.. not because of the cost, or the item, or the size.. but because it was given with good intentions.. be it just a smile, or kind word. Here is another chance to purify our intentions, by giving with an open heart and receiving with open arms.

Details of swap: List four items in the Comments section of what you are willing to send to someone (store bought or handmade), keeping the description vague (to keep it a surprise), include your email address.

The next person will tag you for one of your items (and email you with their mailing address), they will also put up a list of 4 more items, and their email address.
Note: You can only pick from the last person in line.

Re-cap:

List 4 items (vague description).

Include your email address.

Next Person:

Tag you for one of your items. (email you with their address)

List 4 items (vague description)

Include email address.

Keep it fun!

Participants allowed: International (open to Females only please).

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: $3 maximum.

Rules:

Gifts should be sent out within 2 weeks!!!

Email ME (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) once you receive AND send out something. I will keep record right on this post so others know what is going on. (2 weeks and no mention of shipping out, automatically puts you on the 'flakers' list).

You can participate more than once.

Note: If your post gets deleted (by me) it means you can not participate - because you haven't sent out a gift from previous swaps.

Participants:

Sketched Soul - sent

Aishah Bey - sent (received)

Umm Layth - sent (received)

Adikbongsu - sent (received)

Hafsa - sent (received)

Al Miskeenah - sent (received)

Sis Zabrina - sent

IslamicGems - sent (received)

Umm Hibaat - sent (received)

Gulnarita - (received) sent

UmmUmarNY - sent (received)

IslamicGems - (received)

Flakers:

Labels: swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:53 AM | Permalink 20 comments

Share A Little

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

How about we do a little sharing, shall we..
What is your favourite sandwich?? (no .. "what *this restaurant* serves" please, unless you tell us exactly what is in it.)

I suppose this could be a little 'boring', but there is nothing like a cheese (real cheese.. non of the processed stuff) and tomato sandwich.. yummmmmmy! You must, must sprinkle salt and pepper on the tomatoes (it's not natural to eat them any other way), and if you really want to indulge.. butter is most welcome. Oh..on anything whole wheat.

Okay my dear readers.. I look forward to your feedback.

A pointless post? oh nooo.. I wouldn't dare!, it will actually help me with a sandwich project to help those who are not so well-to-do, insha'Allah. So share!

Labels: ideas

posted by Sketched Soul at 4:06 PM | Permalink 29 comments

Baby Blankie

Friday, January 11, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

AlhumduliLlah, I managed to finish my crocheted baby blankie in pretty good time! It's a gift for someone special..a little last minute, so I really thought I wouldn't be able to get it done.

I couldn't find a simple yet pretty pattern in my limited time-frame.. so I made up my own. Here it is! Forgive me for the unprofessional instructions.. I can clear up any questions, if need be.

Finished size: approximately 30" x 30" (not including ruffle border)
Blanket: 2 skeins, sports weight, 160g (each)
Ruffle Border: 90g, sports weight
Crochet hook size: US 5mm - H8

Blanket
Chain 133
Sc in each st across (132)

Row 1: Dc in each st, turn.
Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), *skip 1 st, dc in next st, dc in skipped st; (repeat from *)
Row 3: Ch 1, sc in each st, turn.
Repeat rows 1-3 for pattern, until desired size, or yarn is done. Please keep track of stitches every so often.

Ruffle Border
Put hook through one corner of blanket and pull out contrasting yarn, leave a 4" tail and sl st to secure.
Dc 10 times in same corner st.
Dc 5 times in next st. (repeat around blanket edges).
note: at each corner stitch, dc 10 times.

The Flower:
Started of using this pattern, Lazy Shell Flower.. but then I got side tracked on row 3 and did my own thing, which I probably could never repeat and can't put in words..sorry.

So there we have it. Enjoy.

Labels: crochet

posted by Sketched Soul at 3:09 PM | Permalink 32 comments

Loving Freezer Paper

Tuesday, January 08, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

The amazing things you can do using freezer paper! You should be able to find Freezer Paper at any grocery store. It's like wax paper but one side is shiny (ie: waxy), and one side is matte (like parchment paper).

Why use freezer paper to stencil? It adheres to the fabric, leaving your work absolutely clean, and very professional look. It's also cheap!

Materials:
:: fabric (ie: t-shirt, bag, etc; what ever you are stenciling on)
:: freezer paper
:: exacto knife
:: the image you want to stencil (drawn or a computer print out)
:: tape
:: iron
:: paints (either of the following):
- fabric paint
- acrylic paint (with fabric medium mixed in)
- acrylic paint - will need to heat set after stenciling
:: sponges

Find the image you would like to stencil. You can either: print your image directly on to the freezer paper - on the matte side!! using your ink jet printer, or draw the image (onto the matte side), or tape a photocopied/sketched image onto the matte side of the freezer paper. (note: I first sketch my ideas out, then trace it onto the freezer paper..as shown in the image).

Cut the image out using an exacto knife (or small scissors).. I think exacto knives are one of the greatest inventions in this world.

Once your image is cut, place your freezer paper stencil on to your ironed (wrinkle free) fabric. So the shiny side should be down.. right? Make sure the iron is on dry set and iron the stencil on.

Take another piece of freezer paper (the same size as the one you just ironed on), and iron it behind the fabric; the inside of the fabric (shiny side touching the fabric). This helps keep the fabric in place and stops the paint from leaking right through. (optional: you may also place a cardboard inside the shirt to prevent the paint going through to the other side)

Using a sponge dab a thin coat of paint on. Make sure to dab, not brush. If you need another coat of paint or add another colour, let the first one dry all the way through and then dab another thin layer on, etc.

Once you are done painting, and it is completely dry, peel the stencil off. Peel the freezer paper on the inside off. Heat set your image.

Heat set: with your iron on medium tempreture (no steam), iron it inside-out for 30 seconds. Or you can put it in the dryer on low heat, inside-out for 15 minutes. Note: the stencil can not be used again... but stencilling is addictive!

Have fun ..and make sure to come back and share your masterpiece!

Labels: crafts, paper, tutorials

posted by Sketched Soul at 12:50 PM | Permalink 23 comments

Don't Be Sad

Thursday, January 03, 2008

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu my dear readers..

I know you missed me.. ha

AlhumduliLlah the RIS Conference went excellent! I'm still recouping, bear with me.

I'd like to share a site with you, Don't Be Sad. It is, to me, the perfect blog! My lack of grammer can't explain all the goodness about it. So please go check it out with an open heart, and don't wait for a Monday or a New Year to apply what you learn, they both may never come.

Jazak'Allah for the pretty badge, very, very much appreciated. May Allah Most Merciful shower His blessings upon you, and reward you for your pure intentions. Ameen. (It should really be ther other way..I should be the one sending you a badge) Thank you so much for creating a useful blog, that will insha'Allah give us success in this world and in the next.

Labels: sites

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:02 AM | Permalink 12 comments

Tying Up Loose Ends

Friday, December 21, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Insha'Allah this post will kind of tie up some loose ends from previous posts, before the start of a new year, new goals, new projects, and new ideas.

...but first a reminder! Anyone attending the RIS conference this year? I will be collecting scarfs for the Warm The Streets drive there and donations for the orphanage.

(I designed their logo!) are kind enough to allow me to use some of their space (jazak'Allah), so you can find me at their booth, insha'Allah. Come by and say salaam! (I look forward to meeting you *sisters*)

On October 9, 2006 I asked how you organize your recipes, so I could do the same. I settled with writing them in separate books (ie: soups and salads in one, etc.) because I have so many recipes. Well..I have the books..and have written 5 recipes to date ... haha..(I know..that's sad)

The Unity Mural done in December 2006, is a gem in the Welfare Centre. The founder of the Centre, Major Abbas was so touched by the work gone into it, he would like to send a personal thank you to everyone who contributed. If you were one of the contributors, I need your permission to give the Centre your mailing address. (Let me know if you read this)

We managed to send out 27 dolls for The Muslimah Doll Project, posted in January 2007. Of which 11 of the dolls

reached an orphanage in Ethiopia around November, 2007. The organization (Amana Kids) would like to thank you for your kindness and support. The children were very pleased with them, alhumduliLlah. Sorry I couldn't get pictures *yet*.

The money raised (plus extra donated) from the Cupcake Bake Sale in June safely reached the school in Thailand in September 2007. The Principal, a few students and a few teachers sent letters of appreciation. They will use the money to buy books and cds for the library once it is built. You are welcome to send books as well. They are still in the process of collecting funds for the building, so if you are interested in helping out there, please let me know..I would be very happy to send you their contact information.

In August I posted a Pay It Forward game. I had to make something for three people and in return they will make something for another three people. Well I'm done! The gift to Hafsa was a bag but not handmade.. she was fine with that. The gift to Purvis should be on its way (it's a secret..so I can't tell you what it is). The gift to Nuh, a crocheted kufi and book was received few days ago. Check out their pages if you still want to play. Purvis (is short 1 person to gift), Nuh (is short all 3 people to gift) and Hafsa (is short either 1 or 2 people to gift).

Wayfarer won the pomegranate quiz posted in November, and received a strawberry cheesecake as her prize.

After 100 votes monArt won the tote contest from the Green Swap. Her prize was an online shopping spree. She purchased (and has already received) 6 skeins of yarn and some pretty stitch markers.

For those who knew I was re-doing the kitchen, and are wondering how the picture I had to paint turned out.. here it is. I wanted something simple, but which makes an impact when you enter the room. The actually painting is really huge, and all the walls are lilac, so the black canvas really works out well here, alhumduliLlah.

Am I missing anything??

Plans for 2008..lots! but for now, I'd like to open a new swap end of January..with an added twist, concentrate on the Orphanage in Africa project, complete the Warm the Streets project, maybe get an etsy shop started for donations, and then plan for February!

Jazak'Allah everyone for your comments, feedback, help, participation, and dua's. Some of the swaps and projects seem like a long and slow process (okay..maybe they are).. but we've accomplised a lot, we really have. AlhumduliLlah. May Allah keep our intentions pure, and guide us to do what pleases Him the most. Ameen.

Labels: reflection

posted by Sketched Soul at 12:03 PM | Permalink 10 comments

Feast of Sacrifice

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Eid Mubarak my dear brothers and sisters!

I shall insha'Allah be celebrating Eid tomorrow, December 20th. I pray you all have a wonderful Eid filled with Allah's infinite blessings. Please take a moment to reflect on the importance of this celebration, remember those who are blessed to perform their Hajj this year and ask Allah to accept it, pray for the less fortunate, enjoy family and think of those who have to spend this special day alone,... and relax!

May Allah Most Merciful forgive our sins, guide us, and give us good in this world and the next. Ameen.

Cake Directions:

Pretty straight forward, you need a 12" cake, an 8" cake, and 2 cupcakes. Cut the 8" cake as shown in the picture.

Assemble cake as shown. First frost the head, inside of ears, and bottom half of feet with chocolate frosting. (Optional: then cover those sections with chocolate chips.) Using a piping bag and star nozzle frost the rest with vanilla frosting. Add details (ears, nose, mouth).

Voila! Halal on Eid and enjoy.

Labels: love

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:55 AM | Permalink 15 comments

Orphanage in Africa

Friday, December 14, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

I'd like to share a new blog I have up, with you.

It's about an orphanage located in Africa. No amount of pictures and words can express how sad the situation is there.

Insha'Allah together we can help our sisters in Islam. It is our duty, and their right.

Our current mission is to collect enough funds to purchase a home for them, in a safer location, and a more reasonable size than the one they are currently living in.

Please, please let others know about this orphanage. All funds are taken care of by me personally, insha'Allah.

If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions..you can leave a comment here, or feel free to email me.

Labels: sites

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:49 AM | Permalink 6 comments

The Winner is...

Monday, December 10, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Thank you very much to all those who voted for the Green Swap contest, we had 100 votes in total! alhumduliLlah.

And the winner is.... Bag number TEN.

Designed by monArt. A gorgeous tote indeed! Not only did she sew the bag, but the image on is hand painted. (Anyone interested in purchasing a custom hand painted bag by her, please email me for details).

Congratulations! You did an amazing job!

And of course, every winner needs a prize. You get to enjoy a $20 web shopping spree. There is a few limits though, it must be a handmade item (or items) or/and any 'green' item(s).

Here are a few suggestions (you are not limited to them); they are stores by ladies who have participated in this swap. And others are welcome to add their site in the comments section.

Sew Stylish

Surviving's Craft Room

Star Girl Jewelry & Lampwork

Labels: swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 4:37 PM | Permalink 10 comments

You Make Me Smile

Monday, December 03, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Here it is!

Three weeks ago we had an amazing group of ladies join the Green Swap. They put their time, effort, and love into making beautiful totes for their swap partner with the intention to reduce the use of plastic bags, making the world a little cleaner.

Now...it is time to vote!

Please click on the thumbnails to view each bag, decide which of these lovely bags makes you smile the most and vote. Thank you. (Flickr)

Thank you to all the ladies who took part in this swap. It was such a pleasure to co-ordinate this swap for such a creative, caring and wonderful group. All the bags are gorgeous.. so much so, I don't think I'll be voting, they all make me smile.

I hope we get to see you in future swaps and projects.

Labels: swaps

posted by Sketched Soul at 3:59 PM | Permalink 15 comments

Warm The Streets

Friday, November 30, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

No person has to actually experience life on the streets to know the difficulties and challenges you'd have to face. Unfortunately there are so many who have no other choice but to go through these challenges. With tempretures hitting below -15°C, the streets of Toronto can be deadly.

God willing, our little contribution will make a difference for some, this winter.

note: Project due date is changed to February 4th, 2008

Details of project: Send in as many winter scarves as you can before February 4th. They can be crocheted, knitted, bought, and/or sewn (making sure they can be used in very cold tempretures). Please make sure they are adult size. You may also add a tag saying who it is made by.

Other ways to help:
:: Post the banner (on my side bar) on your site linked to this post.
:: Inform family, friends, co-workers, and classmates about this project.
:: Buy yarn for someone you know who knits/crochets and ask them to help out.
:: Pray for those who are less-fortunate.

How they are delievered: These will be wrapped and individually handed out to those on the streets of Toronto (Ontario, Canada), with a packed meal. This will be done through my dear brothers and sisters of "Feed The Streets". And 'extras' may be given to a homeless shelter for distribution. I especially encourage those who live in Toronto to participate!
Participants allowed: International

Ages allowed: All ages.

Cost Limit: None.

All scarves must be in no later than January 19th.

If you would like to help, please email (amtullah79@yahoo.ca) me for an address where you can mail the scarves.

Thank you kindly.

PS: Please post scarf patterns in the comments section if you come across any.

Note: Anyone in Toronto (and area) interested in actual packing of the food (done by sisters) and delivering the food and scarves (done by brothers) they can contact brother Mohammed (masheikh@gmail.com).

Labels: help

posted by Sketched Soul at 1:34 PM | Permalink 12 comments

blessings in My life

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It's just amazing how many extraordinary people I have met through my blog, alhumduliLlah. Thank you all for your comments, thoughts, ideas, participation, friendship and love. And to those who read but never comment.. my love goes out to you too!

One of those many special people, is my dear sister Gulnarita.

Thank you soooooooooo much Gulnarita!

May Allah Most High bless you, and give you good in this world and in the next. Ameen. (c'mon people, say Ameen)

I love the gift!, subhan'Allah, it was a total surprise! I'm in lala-land as to what to make now, with all the wonderful ideas in the bookS, and all the gorgeous fabric I have to work with.. you are such a sweet friend! masha'Allah.

Labels: love

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:48 AM | Permalink 3 comments

Typography Ideas

Friday, November 23, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Here is a not-so beneficial post for you..hehe
But I need some help with ideas, if you can please share your thoughts.

I'm looking for what words, sayings and/or images you'd like (buy) on clothing/accessories. More specific, on bags.

No.. you have no copyrights over what you post..hehe

I actually need it for bags (and maybe clothing) that will insha'Allah be sold, and all profits will go to charity.

Jazak'Allah.

Labels: ideas

posted by Sketched Soul at 10:07 AM | Permalink 11 comments

The Rainstick

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

To day is:

Blogs to check out today:

The Rainstick originally came from South America, but are now popular in many other parts of the world. Traditionally, it is made from the dried stem of a cactus, the spines of which are pulled out, reversed and then pushed back in. Then a few small pebbles are filled in and when they strike the spines as you tilt it, it makes the sound of rain.

Used as a musical instrument for some, and a teaching tool for me, this lovely invention makes a great craft for children. Apart from building on their creative skills, you can teach them to be aware of the different sounds around them, encourage them to ponder over nature, and Who created the rain, etc.

They are many methods to make the rainshaker, I've included two methods here.

Materials
Potato chip canister or paper towel roll
2 circles cut out of a plastic bag
2 rubber bands (or masking tape)
White glue
Straight pins (or toothpicks or wire)
1/2 cup pebbles or dried beans or uncooked rice
Decorating material

Procedure
:: Decide if you are going to use a potato chip (Pringle) canister OR a paper towel roll.
:: If using a paper towel roll, cover one end with a piece of plactic (or wax paper) and close it off with a rubber band (or masking tape).
:: Fill with approximately 1/2 cup pebbles.
:: Glue plastic lid on chip canister OR close off paper towel roll as done previously.
:: Poke pins into tube. (An adult will have to do this.)
:: *option: poke toothpicks right through to other end of paper towel roll, place a little glue around toothpick, once dry cut off the part which is sticking out.
:: *option: if using wire, push them through and bend ends down and tape over using masking tape, this makes it easy to decorate.
:: Decorate! - either paint it, colour it, or stick tissue paper (with gluestick) around it. And then you can add other decorations like yarn, beads, stickers, feathers, etc.
:: Once all dry, lift upright and hear the rain.

I'd love to see pictures of how you and your children decorate their rainstick.

Labels: crafts

posted by Sketched Soul at 7:52 AM | Permalink 9 comments

Universal Children's Day

Thursday, November 15, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

It was in 1954, when November 20th was officially declared as Universal Children's Day. A day to honour children, a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children, and a day of activities promoting the welfare of the world's children. Also known in Canada as National Children's Day.

In hopes of raising awareness of this important day, I'm asking all bloggers to participate by posting a child related topic on November 20th.

It can be a craft, a story, a children's book review, a recipe, a poem... whatever you wish.

Anyone willing to join in.. please let me know, so I can post your blog name and link here.

Thank you!

Labels: help, love, reflection

posted by Sketched Soul at 4:47 PM | Permalink 10 comments

Guess Who's In Season?

Friday, November 09, 2007

As-salaamu'alaykum wa Rahmatu Llahi wa Barakatuhu

Okay, I don't know if this lovely fruit is in season as-such.. but if you can find it in my grocery store, then it's in season! I thought I'll share some wonderful things about the pomegranate.

It is full of myths, health benefits, nicknames, recipes, medicinal properties, history and lots, lots more.

Anas bin Malik (radiAllahu anhu), narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu' alayhi wa-salaam), said: "There is not a pomegranate which does not have a pip from one of the pomegranates of the Garden (of Jannah) in it."

This beautiful fruit has been mentioned three times in the Qur'an. In Surah Al-Aníaam:99, Surah Al-Aníaam:14, and in Surah Ar-Rahman:68-69.

There are also several hadiths regarding its benefits, for example: Ali bin Abi Talib (radiAllahu anhu), narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu'alayhi wa-salaam), said: "Pomegranate and its rind strengthen digestion (stomach)."

Easy method to clean it: cut it in sections, place in a bowl of water and roll out the little seeds with your fingers. The pith (white part) should float to the top.. scoop out and discard. Strain seeds and use in your favourite recipe, or just enjoy as is.

Anyone who has a favourite recipe that uses pomegranates, please share.

So:
1) What does "pomegranate" mean?
2) One reason the pomegranate was mentioned in the Qur'an?
3) Name two health benefits of the pomegranate.
4) The fruit can been seen in which famous religious painting?
5) What modern weapon derives its name from this fruit?
6) How do you tell when the fruit is ripe??
Humm... maybe I should give the person who answers them right something.. what do you think?

Anyway..that's the pomegranate for you, enjoy.

Labels: reflection

posted by Sketched Soul at 11:09 AM | Permalink 11 comments