The Spiritual Connection

One of the hard things to explain to family members about why we've decided to move back to Philadelphia is the spiritual connection we have with the Muslim community here. When we first moved to Philadelphia, back in March of 2001, we were both new converts to Islam. We moved in with friends who happened to live next door to a Masjid. This was so crucial to my personal character development and made an everlasting impact that cannot be forgotten.

Seven years and one child later, I thought I could return home since I felt that my faith had been solidified due to the time I'd spent living in such a vibrant Muslim community. Upon returning home I felt isolated and longed for the life that my husband and I created together as young adults.

Now that I'm back in Philadelphia it feels as if I never left. Reuniting with friends and the community at large has been nourishing for my soul. While I do miss my Oregon friends and family, I feel content knowing that I can still visit and enjoy the best of both my homes.

The Happiness Project

The Happiness Project. I finally have the book! Not because I actually made it through the wait list at the library, I think I was hold #250 or some other large number, but because it was a kind gift from a co-worker who knew I wanted to read it!

I'm only 3 chapters into it and I'm loving it so far. It's certainly an eye opener and get's you excited about starting your own happiness project.

Check it out!!

Peacock's Galore

Peacock's, my favorite bird.

Our nature adventure lead us to Horning's Hideout. They have peacock's, and lots of them. I lost count trying to keep track of them all. They were everywhere. On top of roofs, under trees, & sitting on fences. Every once in a while you could hear they're call which sounded like "help, help!"

We didn't stay long, due to the changing weather patterns. The sunshine was overtaken by the clouds and a freak snow/hail shower which left us cold and seeking shelter.

I can't wait to return another day.

Seamus's 4th Birthday Party

Over the weekend we celebrated the 4th Birthday of my son, Seamus. It was a cold and rainy day, but that didn't stop me from planning a birthday party at the playground! True Oregonian right here! The best part of it all was the amazing cupcakes I made from my new favorite cupcake book:Vegan Cupcakes-take over the world.