I returned to work this past Sunday after a week's vacation. I was supposed to have my first official day off, as I am going to work four days a week, but thought I ought to go in because it was such a long holiday and I didn't want the work to hit me hard on Monday when I returned to work. So I worked on Sunday, was going to take off Monday, then Tuesday, well, and now the rest of the week. I guess I'll start my new schedule next Sunday.
It has been absolutely crazy since the school re-opened after Eid. I knew it would be but not to such a drastic extent. First of all, there is a colleague of mine that is on "strike" meaning she is not working to make a point of getting paid what she deserves. OK, I understand her reasons for doing this, but it directly affects me because I share an office with her. Also, it is affecting the teachers because they have to cover her classes. She was literally sitting at her desk and just doing absolutely nothing. It was awful to see her there doing nothing, and I'm sure she didn't enjoy it either.
End of term exams have been taking place at school this week for the middle school and high school grades. The students are crazy, which makes some of us staff crazy. You know what happens to me when I get crazy? I get angry first, then frustrated, and by the end of the day, I just had myself a really good laugh with a friend of mine. It was the best way to end a school day, especially after a couple of days that have been unbelievably hectic.
First we started laughing about a project we're working on together, then we just started laughing about anything and everything else. I eventually forgot that it was time to go and check out the teachers for the day, so when I returned to my office, the teachers had made a list of names of people who left. I didn't care though, because I had a good laugh with a friend.
Sometimes you just gotta laugh.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Thursday, October 26, 2006
How I Spent My Eid
Well it started simply enough: grilled fish at Aunt Olfat's. We spend a lot of time there because her health is deteriorating and although the chemo seems to be working, I know from personal experience the cancer can take a turn at any moment.
I'm not a big fan of grilled fish. I like fish, but when the whole fish is served on my plate (including the head), I lose my appetite. I have learned to just pull off the head and put it aside. Recently when we were at Aunt Fawzayya's eating fish (they love fish in Hassan's family and maybe that's why they live so long), Mira translated the following Arabic sentence to me: "Aunt Fawzayya just asked if anyone didn't want their heads." I stopped eating at that point. Mira has a way of picking and choosing what to translate.
Back to Eid. The second day we had Aunt Olfat and her entire family, including cousins over to our place. Guess what we had for dinner: yes, you're right, fish again. Only this time it was extra smoked fish. How was it? Not too bad - reminds me of the kippers I used to eat with my Dad on Saturdays. But too much smoked fish is just too much salt. I'm not a big fan of salt either. Somehow Aunt Olfat made it up the five flights of stairs to our apartment. Amazing what determination can do for someone.
Enough fish for me. It is the equivalent of my lamb Ramadan last year.
After eating, Hassan's cousin the high ranking police officer, brought out his bag of fireworks. I'm not talking just any bag. A really good sized bag of all kinds of fireworks. They started lighting them off the balcony (we're on the top floor), in the hallway outside our apartment, then decided to take it outside for some serious fireworks. It was too loud and definitely too much fire for me.
I don't understand the irony in fireworks. In Egypt people have a difficult time owning guns (actually I don't know anyone except police officers), and in the US anyone can own a gun, but not shoot off fireworks - they're illegal. Go figure.
I explained it to my Egyptian relatives this way: In the US they don't want you to lose a finger or leg or arm, just die by the bullet. I had to make a joke out of it because it actually doesn't make any sense. I'm not a gun advocate although Hassan owned one in the US, but I can see people hunting with them -- take my brother-in-law in Pennsylvania as a perfect example.
So after the police officer cousin finished his bag, in walks his older brother, the officer in the Army with his bag of fireworks. It was a never-ending spectacle of fireworks.
Yesterday we went to the Military Club in Nasr City to have dinner. I don't usually have a hard time getting into the club, just keep my mouth shut as I pass the police and don't look them in the eyes. Of course it's easier in hijab. My nearly deaf uncle took Mira and me in the club and he was ahead of me. When the policeman stopped me to ask me a question, my nearly deaf uncle somehow heard what was said and mumbled something in return. I walked right through.
Now it's the end of Eid and I'm sitting at home alone. Hassan took Mira out for the day and went to Shabaan's.
As I was on the internet, I found a great website for lyrics to songs - just about any song one can imagine. You can guess what I did next - yes, I sure did -- played rock and roll star.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
I'm not a big fan of grilled fish. I like fish, but when the whole fish is served on my plate (including the head), I lose my appetite. I have learned to just pull off the head and put it aside. Recently when we were at Aunt Fawzayya's eating fish (they love fish in Hassan's family and maybe that's why they live so long), Mira translated the following Arabic sentence to me: "Aunt Fawzayya just asked if anyone didn't want their heads." I stopped eating at that point. Mira has a way of picking and choosing what to translate.
Back to Eid. The second day we had Aunt Olfat and her entire family, including cousins over to our place. Guess what we had for dinner: yes, you're right, fish again. Only this time it was extra smoked fish. How was it? Not too bad - reminds me of the kippers I used to eat with my Dad on Saturdays. But too much smoked fish is just too much salt. I'm not a big fan of salt either. Somehow Aunt Olfat made it up the five flights of stairs to our apartment. Amazing what determination can do for someone.
Enough fish for me. It is the equivalent of my lamb Ramadan last year.
After eating, Hassan's cousin the high ranking police officer, brought out his bag of fireworks. I'm not talking just any bag. A really good sized bag of all kinds of fireworks. They started lighting them off the balcony (we're on the top floor), in the hallway outside our apartment, then decided to take it outside for some serious fireworks. It was too loud and definitely too much fire for me.
I don't understand the irony in fireworks. In Egypt people have a difficult time owning guns (actually I don't know anyone except police officers), and in the US anyone can own a gun, but not shoot off fireworks - they're illegal. Go figure.
I explained it to my Egyptian relatives this way: In the US they don't want you to lose a finger or leg or arm, just die by the bullet. I had to make a joke out of it because it actually doesn't make any sense. I'm not a gun advocate although Hassan owned one in the US, but I can see people hunting with them -- take my brother-in-law in Pennsylvania as a perfect example.
So after the police officer cousin finished his bag, in walks his older brother, the officer in the Army with his bag of fireworks. It was a never-ending spectacle of fireworks.
Yesterday we went to the Military Club in Nasr City to have dinner. I don't usually have a hard time getting into the club, just keep my mouth shut as I pass the police and don't look them in the eyes. Of course it's easier in hijab. My nearly deaf uncle took Mira and me in the club and he was ahead of me. When the policeman stopped me to ask me a question, my nearly deaf uncle somehow heard what was said and mumbled something in return. I walked right through.
Now it's the end of Eid and I'm sitting at home alone. Hassan took Mira out for the day and went to Shabaan's.
As I was on the internet, I found a great website for lyrics to songs - just about any song one can imagine. You can guess what I did next - yes, I sure did -- played rock and roll star.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Eid Mubarak
I wish everyone who reads this blog a happy Eid al Fitr - the Feast that follows the end of Ramadan.
This Eid or "holiday" is spent with family. Schools are closed for the week and businesses are closed for approximately two days to give families time to celebrate the end of Ramadan (except restaurants, of course).
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
This Eid or "holiday" is spent with family. Schools are closed for the week and businesses are closed for approximately two days to give families time to celebrate the end of Ramadan (except restaurants, of course).
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Monday, October 23, 2006
As Ramadan comes to an end . . .
I am asking myself if I am a better person as a result of this past Ramadan. This Ramadan was definitely better than last year's Ramadan maybe because last year was my first year in Cairo, and I heard a lot of hype about Ramadan in Egypt, but found it was somewhat of a letdown. Maybe I feel better about this year's Ramadan because I actually tried to be a better person (although sometimes it was difficult to notice) making an extra effort in the different aspects of my life.
It is not recommended when people fast during Ramadan to walk around complaining about hunger or thirst. Actually fasting in Islam is very similar to fasting in Christianity where one is supposed to put on their best face, smile, and be more kind to those around you. I think this is an overlooked commonality between the two religions (among others to be quite honest). This Ramadan helped me realize that no one is perfect (especially me) but we all do our best to get through the days together, knowing that we are all striving to please God. Knowing that others were fasting encouraged me to keep going whenever I was ready to take a sip of water. It wasn't the hunger that bothered me, but rather the thirst for water.
For me, the goal of fasting during Ramadan made me rely on God even more, realizing and appreciating everything in life.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
It is not recommended when people fast during Ramadan to walk around complaining about hunger or thirst. Actually fasting in Islam is very similar to fasting in Christianity where one is supposed to put on their best face, smile, and be more kind to those around you. I think this is an overlooked commonality between the two religions (among others to be quite honest). This Ramadan helped me realize that no one is perfect (especially me) but we all do our best to get through the days together, knowing that we are all striving to please God. Knowing that others were fasting encouraged me to keep going whenever I was ready to take a sip of water. It wasn't the hunger that bothered me, but rather the thirst for water.
For me, the goal of fasting during Ramadan made me rely on God even more, realizing and appreciating everything in life.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Saturday, October 21, 2006
The Johnstown, Pennsylvania USA Inclined Plane
Mira woke up this morning well-rested with a lot of fresh questions on her mind. One of her questions was regarding the Inclined Plane in Johnstown, PA USA. Who knows where she gets these questions from, but if I'm well-rested I'm ready for whatever she asks, and luckily this morning it was a topic that is near and dear to my heart.The Inclined Plane sits on the side of a mountain, what Western Pennsylvanians call "hills" and slowly moves up and down, carrying people along with one or two cars at a time. It was originally built to move passengers and carriages up Yoder Hill in Johnstown.
Statistics for the Inclined Plane:
Elevation: 1693.5 ft.
Length: 896.5 ft.
Lift: 502.2 ft.
Grade: 70.9%
The thought of the inclined plane still makes me queasy. One doesn't realize how steep the grade is until 1) you're riding on it, or 2) you're married to an engineer who is fascinated by the structure that was built many years ago.
Even though I'm living in Egypt -- pass by the Pyramids on a regular basis, have been to the Cairo Museum, have lived near Washington, DC and visited the monuments and Smithsonian museums on many occasions, and went boating in the Tidal Basin (ok so it was a paddle boat) at the peak of Cherry Blossom season, the Johnstown Inclined Plane is still one of my favorite all-time sightseeing attractions.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Happy Birthday, Dad!
Today is my Dad's birthday. I don't know if I will be successful in calling him so I want to write a special birthday greeting to my Dad.
Dear Dad,
Thanks for all you've done throughout your life. I think of you daily and want you to know how much I appreciate all you did for us kids, and Mom.
You worked tirelessly for many years providing a home and warm environment which enriched us all and make us who we are today.
Mira asks about you often and I tell her how you used to sing to me songs from many years ago, you know, "When you wore a tulip . . ." "Toot toot tootsie goodbye . . ." the list is endless, isn't it?
Mira asks questions about "PapPap" and what he was like when I was growing up. I say that you and I used to go out Friday nights shopping, how I was the youngest child for four years until my younger sister was born, and how you used to take my brothers and I out for hot dogs and Pepsi on Saturday mornings, in addition to many other memories.
We may not be together right now, but I hold all the great memories that we made as a family dearly in my heart. I remember the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, summer holidays and vacations -- making the best of it and having a great time with a wife and five children. We were our own sports team if you look at it a certain way.
I tell Mira about your parents and how wonderful they were -- how they loved us very much and how they wanted the best for us -- always there for us; especially Granpap. She asks about how often we would visit Granpap, and I tell her that he would come and stay with us and help Baba with the house and the kids. He would cut the grass in the yard, and then when you would get home from work, he would yell at you "What the hell did you plant that tree there for, Joe?" I'm sure you remember; it is with such fondness and love. Funny how things at the time are not endearing, it's only as time passes that we long to return to the days of when we were growing up.
Thank you for making me the responsible person that I am today. I don't know how you and Mom did it, but you stood by me no matter what. Your unconditional love and support helped me survive my 20's, enjoy marriage in my 30's, and parenting in my 40's.
STOLAT!
Love Always,
Marian
Dear Dad,
Thanks for all you've done throughout your life. I think of you daily and want you to know how much I appreciate all you did for us kids, and Mom.
You worked tirelessly for many years providing a home and warm environment which enriched us all and make us who we are today.
Mira asks about you often and I tell her how you used to sing to me songs from many years ago, you know, "When you wore a tulip . . ." "Toot toot tootsie goodbye . . ." the list is endless, isn't it?
Mira asks questions about "PapPap" and what he was like when I was growing up. I say that you and I used to go out Friday nights shopping, how I was the youngest child for four years until my younger sister was born, and how you used to take my brothers and I out for hot dogs and Pepsi on Saturday mornings, in addition to many other memories.
We may not be together right now, but I hold all the great memories that we made as a family dearly in my heart. I remember the holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, summer holidays and vacations -- making the best of it and having a great time with a wife and five children. We were our own sports team if you look at it a certain way.
I tell Mira about your parents and how wonderful they were -- how they loved us very much and how they wanted the best for us -- always there for us; especially Granpap. She asks about how often we would visit Granpap, and I tell her that he would come and stay with us and help Baba with the house and the kids. He would cut the grass in the yard, and then when you would get home from work, he would yell at you "What the hell did you plant that tree there for, Joe?" I'm sure you remember; it is with such fondness and love. Funny how things at the time are not endearing, it's only as time passes that we long to return to the days of when we were growing up.
Thank you for making me the responsible person that I am today. I don't know how you and Mom did it, but you stood by me no matter what. Your unconditional love and support helped me survive my 20's, enjoy marriage in my 30's, and parenting in my 40's.
STOLAT!
Love Always,
Marian
Ramadan and the Night of Power
The following is an excerpt from an article found on www.Islamicity.com.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Ramadan and the Night of Power
We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!...This until the rise of morn! (97:1-5)The Night of Power in His infinite wisdom is encouraged to be searched during the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. Since over fourteen centuries Muslims are striving diligently to benefit greatly from it. A rare trade indeed - pure profit and thousand times more!
Interestingly we have embraced the night for its mathematical magic but seemingly misplaced the very essence of the night. In fact, it was just another dark night. But it became the Night of Power because of what was revealed in the darkness. It is now known to us, a night better than a thousand months. The dark night is illuminating the world and the Quran is guiding the humanity ever since.
The Night of Power is celebrated powerfully. Masajid and communities celebrate the night by staying up all night, listening to lectures, reading Quran, etc. What seems to be missing though is to reflect on the Divine Words and to act upon it. Unless that is done, the real power will not be received from the Night of Power.
Ramadan visits us every year and offers us a reason to reflect on all aspect of our lives. The objects of our wants and fears far surpass the limits of human genius, energy, and mortal life. The sum of all that we need and desire .. spiritual or material, essential or superfluous .. simply exceeds our ability to attain it. What, then, is one to do? The believer turns to his or her Creator in prayer. The response is natural. Whether moved by need or hope, or faced with misfortune or danger, people instinctively call upon God. Prayer is at the center of our very being and the marrow of the Muslim way of life. For many in the English speaking world, however, this face of Islam is virtually unknown.
Dua - Supplication - Prayer is Muslim's hope for everything at all times. Let us submit ourselves and plead and plead and plead ... as He alone can relieve us of our anxieties and sufferings.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Ramadan and the Night of Power
We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!...This until the rise of morn! (97:1-5)The Night of Power in His infinite wisdom is encouraged to be searched during the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. Since over fourteen centuries Muslims are striving diligently to benefit greatly from it. A rare trade indeed - pure profit and thousand times more!
Interestingly we have embraced the night for its mathematical magic but seemingly misplaced the very essence of the night. In fact, it was just another dark night. But it became the Night of Power because of what was revealed in the darkness. It is now known to us, a night better than a thousand months. The dark night is illuminating the world and the Quran is guiding the humanity ever since.
The Night of Power is celebrated powerfully. Masajid and communities celebrate the night by staying up all night, listening to lectures, reading Quran, etc. What seems to be missing though is to reflect on the Divine Words and to act upon it. Unless that is done, the real power will not be received from the Night of Power.
Ramadan visits us every year and offers us a reason to reflect on all aspect of our lives. The objects of our wants and fears far surpass the limits of human genius, energy, and mortal life. The sum of all that we need and desire .. spiritual or material, essential or superfluous .. simply exceeds our ability to attain it. What, then, is one to do? The believer turns to his or her Creator in prayer. The response is natural. Whether moved by need or hope, or faced with misfortune or danger, people instinctively call upon God. Prayer is at the center of our very being and the marrow of the Muslim way of life. For many in the English speaking world, however, this face of Islam is virtually unknown.
Dua - Supplication - Prayer is Muslim's hope for everything at all times. Let us submit ourselves and plead and plead and plead ... as He alone can relieve us of our anxieties and sufferings.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Insha'Allah it will all work out
Well, after thinking of leaving school and staying and leaving once again, I think it's all going to work out, Insha'Allah.
I spoke with the principal of the school and we agreed that we would try having me work 4 days a week instead of 5. I was asked if I would be interested in working 3 days a week. Honestly, I'm not a 3 day a week person. Either full-time or not at all. So I consider 4 days a week to be full-time, giving me an extra day off. My day off will be Sunday -- I left which day off up to the principal. She said that work builds up in the school day by day during the week that by Thursday it's really busy. I agreed.
I'm satisifed with this decision.
Regarding my week of pay from June -- it's not the money it's the principle of the matter, apparently my week of pay has been approved so many times I've gotten dizzy. Finally at the end of today I was told that the actual pay slip is on the desk of the owner to sign so I can get my money. Otherwise, I was going to request a week of in lieu of the week's pay. I could always use the extra time off.
The principal is looking to hire a secretary for the office to assist me in the daily responsibilities, but somehow, after interviewing 3 women, showing them around the school, and asking them if they're interested, they all answer "you have a lot of work to do. Your job is very demanding." No kidding. They all leave without ever contacting the principal again. Oh well, we will keep searching.
In Egypt schools usually pay in cash. However, this month the school decided to go with an ATM card to pay its employees. Payday was on the 15th, and hopefully the cards are working now. They haven't been working for two days already. Doesn't the school know that people have to take care of their families?
Since it is the last week of Ramadan and next week is Eid, the school will be closed next week giving the staff a well-deserved break. I hope that everything is straightened out before we begin our Eid vacation.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
I spoke with the principal of the school and we agreed that we would try having me work 4 days a week instead of 5. I was asked if I would be interested in working 3 days a week. Honestly, I'm not a 3 day a week person. Either full-time or not at all. So I consider 4 days a week to be full-time, giving me an extra day off. My day off will be Sunday -- I left which day off up to the principal. She said that work builds up in the school day by day during the week that by Thursday it's really busy. I agreed.
I'm satisifed with this decision.
Regarding my week of pay from June -- it's not the money it's the principle of the matter, apparently my week of pay has been approved so many times I've gotten dizzy. Finally at the end of today I was told that the actual pay slip is on the desk of the owner to sign so I can get my money. Otherwise, I was going to request a week of in lieu of the week's pay. I could always use the extra time off.
The principal is looking to hire a secretary for the office to assist me in the daily responsibilities, but somehow, after interviewing 3 women, showing them around the school, and asking them if they're interested, they all answer "you have a lot of work to do. Your job is very demanding." No kidding. They all leave without ever contacting the principal again. Oh well, we will keep searching.
In Egypt schools usually pay in cash. However, this month the school decided to go with an ATM card to pay its employees. Payday was on the 15th, and hopefully the cards are working now. They haven't been working for two days already. Doesn't the school know that people have to take care of their families?
Since it is the last week of Ramadan and next week is Eid, the school will be closed next week giving the staff a well-deserved break. I hope that everything is straightened out before we begin our Eid vacation.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Sunday, October 15, 2006
I couldn't sleep at all last night
I was up early today - 3:30 a.m. to be exact for suhoor (last meal before fasting). This gave me a lot of time to think about what I will do with a lot of time on my hands. I mean realistically how long will I be happy at home without any social interaction - a week, two weeks tops? I was off for winter break in January and I went nuts after two weeks - we had almost a full four week vacation - imagine that!!
Maybe I've been looking at this whole issue more negatively than I should have. I stopped thinking about all the positive aspects of work, and just focused on the few negative aspects. Why is it that negativity tends to overpower the positivity in our brains? A question to be answered another day.
I am a positive person. Just ask Hassan. I drive him nuts with my positive attitude.
In any event, I will just see how everything plays out today -- it maybe my last day and it may not be my last day. I don't even know.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Maybe I've been looking at this whole issue more negatively than I should have. I stopped thinking about all the positive aspects of work, and just focused on the few negative aspects. Why is it that negativity tends to overpower the positivity in our brains? A question to be answered another day.
I am a positive person. Just ask Hassan. I drive him nuts with my positive attitude.
In any event, I will just see how everything plays out today -- it maybe my last day and it may not be my last day. I don't even know.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Ramadan and the Quran
I found the following article in an email.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
The Holy Quran
Definition
The sacred scripture of Islam and the true word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him - PBUH.)
Revelation of Holy Quran
The Holy Quran was first set on a preserved tablet, as Allah Almighty says in the Holy Book: "It is a Glorious Quran, on a well-preserved tablet" (Quran 85:22). Then it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by the angel Gabriel (PBUH) part by part through a period of 23 years. Each revelation of the Holy Quran was written down by the Prophet's scribes under his instruction and supervision. The current order and organization of the entire revelation of Holy Quran, divided into 114 chapters (surahs), was made by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself. Besides, the entire Quran was committed to memory by the Prophet and his companions (sahabah). The practice of memorizing the whole Quran continued throughout centuries till date. Nowadays, there are thousands of Muslims who know the whole Quran by heart. They are called "Huffaz."
The reasons for revealing the Quran piecemeal
To stabilize the heart of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
To ease the process of the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
To graduate the process of legitimising the divine rules.
To ease the process of memorising and understanding the Quran.
Some parts of the Quran were revealed after some events.
To make easy the process of getting rid of past bad habits for those newly converted to Islam.
Number of Quranic Chapters and Verses
Quran Chapters
Holy Quran is divided into thirty equal chapters, which are called (juz') in Arabic.
There are 114 Surahs of varying length. The longest Surah is Al-Baqarah consisting of 286 verses and the shortest Surah is Al Kawthar consisting of only three verses. The whole Quran has 6236 verses containing 77,250 words.
The first five verses of Surat Al-Alaq , were the first verses ever revealed in the Quran. It reads: "Iqra bismi rabbikalla dhi khalaq. Khalaqal insana min alaq. Iqra wa rabtukal alrram. Alladhi 'allama bil qalam. 'Allamal insana malam ya?lam " which means, "Read in the name of your Lord who created, created man from a clot. Read, for your Lord is most Generous, Who teaches by means of the pen, teaches man what he does not know." (96: 1-5)
The last verse revealed was number (281) from Surat Al-Baqara which means " Guard yourselves against a day in which you will be brought back to Allah. Then every soul will be paid in full that which it has earned, and they will not be wronged" (2:281).
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
The Holy Quran
Definition
The sacred scripture of Islam and the true word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him - PBUH.)
Revelation of Holy Quran
The Holy Quran was first set on a preserved tablet, as Allah Almighty says in the Holy Book: "It is a Glorious Quran, on a well-preserved tablet" (Quran 85:22). Then it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by the angel Gabriel (PBUH) part by part through a period of 23 years. Each revelation of the Holy Quran was written down by the Prophet's scribes under his instruction and supervision. The current order and organization of the entire revelation of Holy Quran, divided into 114 chapters (surahs), was made by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself. Besides, the entire Quran was committed to memory by the Prophet and his companions (sahabah). The practice of memorizing the whole Quran continued throughout centuries till date. Nowadays, there are thousands of Muslims who know the whole Quran by heart. They are called "Huffaz."
The reasons for revealing the Quran piecemeal
To stabilize the heart of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
To ease the process of the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
To graduate the process of legitimising the divine rules.
To ease the process of memorising and understanding the Quran.
Some parts of the Quran were revealed after some events.
To make easy the process of getting rid of past bad habits for those newly converted to Islam.
Number of Quranic Chapters and Verses
Quran Chapters
Holy Quran is divided into thirty equal chapters, which are called (juz') in Arabic.
There are 114 Surahs of varying length. The longest Surah is Al-Baqarah consisting of 286 verses and the shortest Surah is Al Kawthar consisting of only three verses. The whole Quran has 6236 verses containing 77,250 words.
The first five verses of Surat Al-Alaq , were the first verses ever revealed in the Quran. It reads: "Iqra bismi rabbikalla dhi khalaq. Khalaqal insana min alaq. Iqra wa rabtukal alrram. Alladhi 'allama bil qalam. 'Allamal insana malam ya?lam " which means, "Read in the name of your Lord who created, created man from a clot. Read, for your Lord is most Generous, Who teaches by means of the pen, teaches man what he does not know." (96: 1-5)
The last verse revealed was number (281) from Surat Al-Baqara which means " Guard yourselves against a day in which you will be brought back to Allah. Then every soul will be paid in full that which it has earned, and they will not be wronged" (2:281).
Friday, October 13, 2006
Iftar with Hassan's friends
Here are some photos from an iftar (breaking of the fast) that we went to with Hassan's friends and their families at the Cairo University Rowing Club last weekend. It has turned into an annual event -- this is the second year we've met for iftar so I consider it to be "annual."
Notice there aren't any pictures of me. I don't like having my picture taken. It took a lot of courage for me to post my photo in my blog profile -- I hope to change it to something much better at some point, but again, there are few pictures of me -- I'm too shy. Ana maksufa.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Should I stay or should I go now???
Now since I wrote that I will be staying home some interesting events have taken place.
I have been thinking about how I will really miss the people I work with. The greatest asset to any school is its staff. This school is no different, especially as a foreigner living in Egypt.
I talked to the principal of the school today several different times about how I could stay -- weighing the pros and cons of staying at work and staying at home. I think that there are many more pros than cons overall, but since the principal suggested I write them down over the weekend, I told her I would do this and get back to her with my list on Sunday (the day we return to school - by the way I'm still in the Monday-Friday mode, so I need a calendar everyday to remind me what day it really is).
Also, she informed me that there is a group of teachers who want to petition the owner of the school to keep me; not let me leave. I was given warning about this from a co-worker, but didn't realize that it reached the principal's office. I am very touched that I am so well liked.
I'm not ruling out the possibility of leaving, but at the same time trying to think of ways I can stay at work and still be happy.
I'm worried that if I stay home all the time I will get bored too quickly and miss my friends at work. It's not that I'm very close with people at work, but just the social aspect of the place really makes my day. We all need contact with each other, and I am no exception. I have found that Egyptians are the friendlist people in the world. Of course they are, would I think anything different?
I know I am no different than any other woman who wants it all. But there needs to be a balance between my work life and my personal life.
Egyptians are very social. They will sit and talk for hours about everything and anything. They love to laugh and they love to help other people. With my inability to speak Arabic, I am now trying to speak as much Arabic as I know, which isn't much, and the Egyptians who cannot speak English try to speak as much English as they know.
We meet in the middle which is a good place to be.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
I have been thinking about how I will really miss the people I work with. The greatest asset to any school is its staff. This school is no different, especially as a foreigner living in Egypt.
I talked to the principal of the school today several different times about how I could stay -- weighing the pros and cons of staying at work and staying at home. I think that there are many more pros than cons overall, but since the principal suggested I write them down over the weekend, I told her I would do this and get back to her with my list on Sunday (the day we return to school - by the way I'm still in the Monday-Friday mode, so I need a calendar everyday to remind me what day it really is).
Also, she informed me that there is a group of teachers who want to petition the owner of the school to keep me; not let me leave. I was given warning about this from a co-worker, but didn't realize that it reached the principal's office. I am very touched that I am so well liked.
I'm not ruling out the possibility of leaving, but at the same time trying to think of ways I can stay at work and still be happy.
I'm worried that if I stay home all the time I will get bored too quickly and miss my friends at work. It's not that I'm very close with people at work, but just the social aspect of the place really makes my day. We all need contact with each other, and I am no exception. I have found that Egyptians are the friendlist people in the world. Of course they are, would I think anything different?
I know I am no different than any other woman who wants it all. But there needs to be a balance between my work life and my personal life.
Egyptians are very social. They will sit and talk for hours about everything and anything. They love to laugh and they love to help other people. With my inability to speak Arabic, I am now trying to speak as much Arabic as I know, which isn't much, and the Egyptians who cannot speak English try to speak as much English as they know.
We meet in the middle which is a good place to be.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Life is changing yet again . . .
As you can see, I have changed my photo. Gone is the photo without hijab. I have been wearing hijab since July 3 2006. Why do I remember this? Because we were going to the North Coast and I told Hassan I was just going to try it to see if I felt comfortable wearing it.
Knowing Hassan didn't want me to wear hijab, even though we talked about it for a long time, practically since we moved here, I tried to wear it anyway. Once I put it on, that was it. I haven't thought once about taking it off. Hassan has even started complimenting me once again on how nice I look - SobhanAllah!
The second big change is that I am leaving my job at Mira's school. My feelings are mixed but I am at peace about it. My last day will be on Sunday, October 15, when I hope to receive my final pay, Insha'Allah. I will dearly miss my co-workers, and hope to keep in touch by visiting every so often, as Mira will still be going to the school. I will continue to take Mira to school, but it won't be as early as 7 a.m. She won't need to be there until 7:45.
Ah yes, the third big change. I will be staying at home enjoying my new sewing machine. I bought a Pfaff sewing machine about a month ago and it runs like a dream. Once again, thanks to Shabaan who took Hassan and me to Attaba to find the perfect sewing machine.
Next I will be venturing to the fabric district here in Cairo to begin my quilting fabric stash Egyptian-style. OK, Omar the Tent Maker get ready, Marian's on her way!
On another note, we had a wicked sand storm today. Usually I don't mind them, but because it was about 93 degrees F and the wind was gusting, it sounded as though snow was hitting the window at school. When I looked outside I was disappointed to see that it was the desert sand in hot weather. Oh well, January isn't far away. That's when the geraniums bloom. Go figure.
Ramadan Kareem and Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Knowing Hassan didn't want me to wear hijab, even though we talked about it for a long time, practically since we moved here, I tried to wear it anyway. Once I put it on, that was it. I haven't thought once about taking it off. Hassan has even started complimenting me once again on how nice I look - SobhanAllah!
The second big change is that I am leaving my job at Mira's school. My feelings are mixed but I am at peace about it. My last day will be on Sunday, October 15, when I hope to receive my final pay, Insha'Allah. I will dearly miss my co-workers, and hope to keep in touch by visiting every so often, as Mira will still be going to the school. I will continue to take Mira to school, but it won't be as early as 7 a.m. She won't need to be there until 7:45.
Ah yes, the third big change. I will be staying at home enjoying my new sewing machine. I bought a Pfaff sewing machine about a month ago and it runs like a dream. Once again, thanks to Shabaan who took Hassan and me to Attaba to find the perfect sewing machine.
Next I will be venturing to the fabric district here in Cairo to begin my quilting fabric stash Egyptian-style. OK, Omar the Tent Maker get ready, Marian's on her way!
On another note, we had a wicked sand storm today. Usually I don't mind them, but because it was about 93 degrees F and the wind was gusting, it sounded as though snow was hitting the window at school. When I looked outside I was disappointed to see that it was the desert sand in hot weather. Oh well, January isn't far away. That's when the geraniums bloom. Go figure.
Ramadan Kareem and Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Pope Benedict XVI's Comments
I don't know if Chrisitans are aware of this, but Muslims listen to what the Pope has to say. He is a world moral leader, speaking for Christians, as Muslims make no distinction between Catholic or Protestant.
Pope Benedict's recent comments on Islam is causing quite a stir.
I encourage you to learn more about Islam and what it says about violence.
If you want to learn more, please read. If not, why not?
Ma'salaam,
Marian
The following is from the www.cair-net.org website where you can subscribe to daily news releases concerning Islam and America.
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MUSLIMS CALL FOR DIALOGUE OVER POPE'S COMMENTS ON ISLAM CAIR seeks meeting with Vatican representative in Washington, D.C.
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 9/15/2006) -
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called for increased dialogue between Muslims and Catholics over the controversy sparked by remarks perceived as insulting to Islam and the Prophet Muhammad made by Pope Benedict XVI. CAIR is also seeking a meeting with the Vatican's representative in Washington, D.C., to discuss the remarks.
In an address on Tuesday, the Pope quoted a 14th century Byzantine Christian Emperor as saying: "Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
SEE: Muslim Leaders Blast Pope's Comments (Washington Post)
In a statement issued today, the Washington-based Islamic civil rights and advocacy group said:"The proper response to the Pope's inaccurate and divisive remarks is for Muslims and Catholics worldwide to increase dialogue and outreach efforts aimed at building better relations between Christianity and Islam. This unfortunate episode also offers an opportunity for Christians to learn more about Islam, the Prophet Muhammad and the Islamic concept of jihad."Jihad is a central and broad Islamic concept that includes struggle against evil inclinations within oneself, struggle to improve the quality of life in society, struggle in the battlefield for self-defense (e.g., - having a standing army for national defense), or fighting against tyranny or oppression. 'Jihad' should not be translated as 'holy war.'"
The Quran, Islam's revealed text, condemns forced acceptance of any faith when it states: 'Let there be no compulsion in religion.' (2:256)
Islam calls for peace once oppression ends: 'Fight in the cause of God with those who fight against you, but do not exceed the limits...If they desist, let there be no hostility except against the oppressors." (2:190-193)
"Muslims are also asked to maintain good relations with people of other faiths, and to engage in constructive dialogue. 'And dispute not with the People of the Book (Christians and Jews) except with means better (than mere disputation). . .but say, 'We believe in the Revelation that has come down to us and in that which came down to you.'" (29:46)
"The Quran also states: '(Rest assured that) those who believe (in the Quran), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians, and the Sabians - whoever believes in God and the last day and performs good deeds - will be rewarded by their Lord. They will have nothing to fear or to regret.' (2:62)
"In Islam, there is no contradiction between faith and reason. The first verses revealed to the Prophet Muhammad included: 'Read! In the name of your Lord. . .Read! Your Lord is the Most Gracious, Who taught by the (use of the) pen, taught man what he knew not.'
Historically, whenever Islam flourished, so did knowledge and discovery."Let us all continue the interfaith efforts promoted by the late Pope John Paul II, who made great strides in bringing Muslims and Catholics together for the common good."
Along with a request for a meeting with a Vatican representative in the United States, CAIR is urging Americans of all faiths to learn more about Islam and about the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad by requesting a free Quran or a book or DVD about Muhammad at www.explorethequran.org and www.cair.com/Muhammad. CAIR has 32 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
- END -
CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org-----CAIRCouncil on American-Islamic Relations453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: info@cair.com URL: http://www.cair.com
-----To reach the list moderator, send a message to: cair@cair-net.org
To SUBSCRIBE to or UNSUBSCRIBE from this list, go to:
http://cair.biglist.com/cair-net/
Pope Benedict's recent comments on Islam is causing quite a stir.
I encourage you to learn more about Islam and what it says about violence.
If you want to learn more, please read. If not, why not?
Ma'salaam,
Marian
The following is from the www.cair-net.org website where you can subscribe to daily news releases concerning Islam and America.
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MUSLIMS CALL FOR DIALOGUE OVER POPE'S COMMENTS ON ISLAM CAIR seeks meeting with Vatican representative in Washington, D.C.
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 9/15/2006) -
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today called for increased dialogue between Muslims and Catholics over the controversy sparked by remarks perceived as insulting to Islam and the Prophet Muhammad made by Pope Benedict XVI. CAIR is also seeking a meeting with the Vatican's representative in Washington, D.C., to discuss the remarks.
In an address on Tuesday, the Pope quoted a 14th century Byzantine Christian Emperor as saying: "Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached."
SEE: Muslim Leaders Blast Pope's Comments (Washington Post)
In a statement issued today, the Washington-based Islamic civil rights and advocacy group said:"The proper response to the Pope's inaccurate and divisive remarks is for Muslims and Catholics worldwide to increase dialogue and outreach efforts aimed at building better relations between Christianity and Islam. This unfortunate episode also offers an opportunity for Christians to learn more about Islam, the Prophet Muhammad and the Islamic concept of jihad."Jihad is a central and broad Islamic concept that includes struggle against evil inclinations within oneself, struggle to improve the quality of life in society, struggle in the battlefield for self-defense (e.g., - having a standing army for national defense), or fighting against tyranny or oppression. 'Jihad' should not be translated as 'holy war.'"
The Quran, Islam's revealed text, condemns forced acceptance of any faith when it states: 'Let there be no compulsion in religion.' (2:256)
Islam calls for peace once oppression ends: 'Fight in the cause of God with those who fight against you, but do not exceed the limits...If they desist, let there be no hostility except against the oppressors." (2:190-193)
"Muslims are also asked to maintain good relations with people of other faiths, and to engage in constructive dialogue. 'And dispute not with the People of the Book (Christians and Jews) except with means better (than mere disputation). . .but say, 'We believe in the Revelation that has come down to us and in that which came down to you.'" (29:46)
"The Quran also states: '(Rest assured that) those who believe (in the Quran), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians, and the Sabians - whoever believes in God and the last day and performs good deeds - will be rewarded by their Lord. They will have nothing to fear or to regret.' (2:62)
"In Islam, there is no contradiction between faith and reason. The first verses revealed to the Prophet Muhammad included: 'Read! In the name of your Lord. . .Read! Your Lord is the Most Gracious, Who taught by the (use of the) pen, taught man what he knew not.'
Historically, whenever Islam flourished, so did knowledge and discovery."Let us all continue the interfaith efforts promoted by the late Pope John Paul II, who made great strides in bringing Muslims and Catholics together for the common good."
Along with a request for a meeting with a Vatican representative in the United States, CAIR is urging Americans of all faiths to learn more about Islam and about the life and legacy of the Prophet Muhammad by requesting a free Quran or a book or DVD about Muhammad at www.explorethequran.org and www.cair.com/Muhammad. CAIR has 32 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
- END -
CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726, E-Mail: ihooper@cair-net.org-----CAIRCouncil on American-Islamic Relations453 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.Washington, D.C. 20003
Tel: 202-488-8787, 202-744-7726Fax: 202-488-0833
E-mail: info@cair.com URL: http://www.cair.com
-----To reach the list moderator, send a message to: cair@cair-net.org
To SUBSCRIBE to or UNSUBSCRIBE from this list, go to:
http://cair.biglist.com/cair-net/
Monday, August 07, 2006
Ain Sukna
We went to Ain Sukna for a few days with Shabaan, his daughter, Maryam, Ehab and his wife, Gehan. We had a good time - the company was great, but there was absolutely nothing to do there, and it was too hot to go out during the day. Mira and Maryam spent the entire time swimming, and as a result, each got some sort of stomach virus.
On the way to Ain Sukna, Ehab's car (Gehan's car really), broke down 4 times on the desert road. So Shabaan, the great electrical engineer, came up with an innovative idea. He got a stone and hit the engine, which turned out to work quite well. There wasn't a problem after that. Leave it to an Egyptian electrical engineer with a broken down car in the desert. Shukran Shabaan!
I cross-stitched almost the entire time there, and the other adults played chess. I want to learn how to play, however, they lost me when they were speaking Arabic. It's alright thought, I understand most of it now.
Ma'salaam,
Marian
On the way to Ain Sukna, Ehab's car (Gehan's car really), broke down 4 times on the desert road. So Shabaan, the great electrical engineer, came up with an innovative idea. He got a stone and hit the engine, which turned out to work quite well. There wasn't a problem after that. Leave it to an Egyptian electrical engineer with a broken down car in the desert. Shukran Shabaan!
I cross-stitched almost the entire time there, and the other adults played chess. I want to learn how to play, however, they lost me when they were speaking Arabic. It's alright thought, I understand most of it now.
Ma'salaam,
Marian
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Lebanon, Palestine, Israel and Don't Forget Iraq
I haven't posted in awhile because I've been too upset about what's going on with Lebanon and Israel.
Beirut has always been called the "Paris of the Middle East."
I know someone who traveled to Lebanon over this past winter and she returned to Cairo saying that Beirut was an absolutely beautiful city with the best nightlife in the Middle East.
Now parts of Beirut and greater Lebanon are being blown to bits. Why? Because Hezbollah kidnapped Israeli soldiers, and Israel in return is bombing the hell out of Lebanon. Everyday there are reports that Israel has bombed another city, with civilian casualties, and the Israeli Army responds (paraphrasing) . . . "it is never our (Israeli) intention to hurt civilians." OK, so is that why they are using heat guided missiles to take out apartment buildings? Is that why there are severe phosphorus burns on childrens' bodies?
Hezbollah should not have taken Israeli soldiers as prisoners. I don't think Israel knows how else to respond other than with military power.
I realize I am being one-sided.
I believe Israel has a right to exist. I also believe Palestine has a right to exist as its own nation without being caged like prisoners in the concentration camps during WWII.
I believe Lebanon should be left alone without being invaded by Israeli soldiers.
There is a reason Syrias soldiers were in Southern Lebanon for so long -- to keep Israel out of Lebanon. Now that Syrian troops have left, Israel seized an opportunity to re-enter Lebanon with no clearcut exit strategy. I don't think they have any intention of leaving Lebanon.
Hezbollah is not innocent by any means either. They are just as guilty as the Israelis in bombing Israel, in the taking of prisoners and the killing of innocent civilians.
I found out that Hezbollah takes care of the poor in Lebanon. They provide shelter, health care, education. And now with Lebanon at war, the refugees in Syria are being aided by Hezbollah. They are doing this because no one else is taking care of the refugees fleeing Lebanon.
While the Middle East war continues, innocent Iraqis are being bombed by "insurgents."
In Iraq it is Sunni vs. Shia. Nowhere else in the world are Sunnis and Shias against each other. Here in Egypt one is "Muslim" regardless if one is Sunni or Shia.
The Quran says that if one takes the life of an innocent human being it is as if they have killed the whole world.
Pray for Peace in the world.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Beirut has always been called the "Paris of the Middle East."
I know someone who traveled to Lebanon over this past winter and she returned to Cairo saying that Beirut was an absolutely beautiful city with the best nightlife in the Middle East.
Now parts of Beirut and greater Lebanon are being blown to bits. Why? Because Hezbollah kidnapped Israeli soldiers, and Israel in return is bombing the hell out of Lebanon. Everyday there are reports that Israel has bombed another city, with civilian casualties, and the Israeli Army responds (paraphrasing) . . . "it is never our (Israeli) intention to hurt civilians." OK, so is that why they are using heat guided missiles to take out apartment buildings? Is that why there are severe phosphorus burns on childrens' bodies?
Hezbollah should not have taken Israeli soldiers as prisoners. I don't think Israel knows how else to respond other than with military power.
I realize I am being one-sided.
I believe Israel has a right to exist. I also believe Palestine has a right to exist as its own nation without being caged like prisoners in the concentration camps during WWII.
I believe Lebanon should be left alone without being invaded by Israeli soldiers.
There is a reason Syrias soldiers were in Southern Lebanon for so long -- to keep Israel out of Lebanon. Now that Syrian troops have left, Israel seized an opportunity to re-enter Lebanon with no clearcut exit strategy. I don't think they have any intention of leaving Lebanon.
Hezbollah is not innocent by any means either. They are just as guilty as the Israelis in bombing Israel, in the taking of prisoners and the killing of innocent civilians.
I found out that Hezbollah takes care of the poor in Lebanon. They provide shelter, health care, education. And now with Lebanon at war, the refugees in Syria are being aided by Hezbollah. They are doing this because no one else is taking care of the refugees fleeing Lebanon.
While the Middle East war continues, innocent Iraqis are being bombed by "insurgents."
In Iraq it is Sunni vs. Shia. Nowhere else in the world are Sunnis and Shias against each other. Here in Egypt one is "Muslim" regardless if one is Sunni or Shia.
The Quran says that if one takes the life of an innocent human being it is as if they have killed the whole world.
Pray for Peace in the world.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Friday, July 21, 2006
Went Back to the North Coast
We just returned from an 11 day stay on the North Coast again. We took Aunt Olfat, who is very ill with breast cancer, to see Fawzeyya's apartment at the beach. Olfat was thrilled that we were taking her, seeing as her children are not able to take her on a vacation for whatever reason (no comment here).
Hassan and I spent most of our time making sure Olfat was comfortable and had everything she needed, including making sure her medicine was taken at the appropriate time and her dermagesic patch for pain was changed every three days.
Mira met a girl at the beach, Noura, who was staying two apartments away and played with her almost all the time. When Mira wasn't playing with Noura she was playing with her cousin Munno (Mohamed) who is 4 years old and the new cousins we just met.
We had a chance to meet cousins from Mansoura who arrived during our vacation time. Mahmoud and his wife Hoda have three sons; I mean three young men (I thought they were much younger before I met them): Ahmed (20), Mohamed (17), and Osama (14) -- very well rounded, bright guys. They were very friendly and quite tolerant with Mira's behavior, even though Hassan and I were embarassed at times. Mira's into her "I hate boys" stage.
So with Aunt Fawzeyya, Aunt Olfat, the cousins from Mansoura, Uncle Yehia, Aunt Fatma, and their daughter Maya (her husband Osama was there for a few days) and son Munno, we always had something to do, and more than enough to eat. We even were able to see Hassan's other uncle, Hillel, and his family at times during our stay.
Whew! That's enough, don't you think?
I came to the conclusion that all families are the same, with the same dynamics and personalities. Yes, the same holds true here in Egypt -- avoid religion and politics when you get together with family. It is probably a blessing I didn't understand what they were talking about - seeing as my understanding of Arabic is still very lacking.
We are back at home for a week or so before we head over to Ain Sokhna for a few days.
Ma'salaam,
Marian
Hassan and I spent most of our time making sure Olfat was comfortable and had everything she needed, including making sure her medicine was taken at the appropriate time and her dermagesic patch for pain was changed every three days.
Mira met a girl at the beach, Noura, who was staying two apartments away and played with her almost all the time. When Mira wasn't playing with Noura she was playing with her cousin Munno (Mohamed) who is 4 years old and the new cousins we just met.
We had a chance to meet cousins from Mansoura who arrived during our vacation time. Mahmoud and his wife Hoda have three sons; I mean three young men (I thought they were much younger before I met them): Ahmed (20), Mohamed (17), and Osama (14) -- very well rounded, bright guys. They were very friendly and quite tolerant with Mira's behavior, even though Hassan and I were embarassed at times. Mira's into her "I hate boys" stage.
So with Aunt Fawzeyya, Aunt Olfat, the cousins from Mansoura, Uncle Yehia, Aunt Fatma, and their daughter Maya (her husband Osama was there for a few days) and son Munno, we always had something to do, and more than enough to eat. We even were able to see Hassan's other uncle, Hillel, and his family at times during our stay.
Whew! That's enough, don't you think?
I came to the conclusion that all families are the same, with the same dynamics and personalities. Yes, the same holds true here in Egypt -- avoid religion and politics when you get together with family. It is probably a blessing I didn't understand what they were talking about - seeing as my understanding of Arabic is still very lacking.
We are back at home for a week or so before we head over to Ain Sokhna for a few days.
Ma'salaam,
Marian
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
World Cup Fever
First it was the Africa Cup of Nations, now it's the World Cup. I know I miss American football, but nothing beats the World Cup. I remember watching it for the first time many years ago with Maggie's Mom and another person (who shall remain nameless), at a restaurant in Chincoteague, VA where my family used to vacation. We were in the middle of nowhere and we found ourselves at a restaurant/bar just to watch the World Cup. None of the local yahoos seemed too interested except for the three of us. I went because I didn't have anything else to do that day and in the end I was a soccer, or should I say, football, fanatic.
Hassan and I have been watching as many games as we can, but since it is more of a pay per view event here, we've missed out on many of the games. We were unable to watch the US game, ok, we caught a bit of it at a cafe, but had to leave. We were sorry the US lost, but continued on watching other games anyway.
The momentum of each game brought with it its own fan base. Many of the Egyptians here cheered for Ghana, Tunisia and France. I watched last night's game at home with Mira - we found the game after much searching on the satellite where it was broadcasted for all to see. Hassan was with his boys watching the game in Faisal.
I bought Mira a small needlepoint kit last night and she and I stitched our own projects for the entire soccer match. I was impressed with Mira's endurance in stitching during the entire game, even though she sang an Egyptian song for 2 hours (boosie wa wa) -- it's about a boo boo. The girl is very sexy and dresses quite revealing by anyone's standards, but Mira likes the little baby in the video. Yeah, the men probably like the baby too -- not.
Tonight we hope to go to Lilly Park, which is a large cafe/restaurant/small amusement park for kids, to watch France and Portugal. We will need to get there very early to get a table. I can't remember what game it was two weeks ago, where people were sitting in the grass watching the game. At least I know they'll have fresh hot cappuccino in the cool 82 F degree evening.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Hassan and I have been watching as many games as we can, but since it is more of a pay per view event here, we've missed out on many of the games. We were unable to watch the US game, ok, we caught a bit of it at a cafe, but had to leave. We were sorry the US lost, but continued on watching other games anyway.
The momentum of each game brought with it its own fan base. Many of the Egyptians here cheered for Ghana, Tunisia and France. I watched last night's game at home with Mira - we found the game after much searching on the satellite where it was broadcasted for all to see. Hassan was with his boys watching the game in Faisal.
I bought Mira a small needlepoint kit last night and she and I stitched our own projects for the entire soccer match. I was impressed with Mira's endurance in stitching during the entire game, even though she sang an Egyptian song for 2 hours (boosie wa wa) -- it's about a boo boo. The girl is very sexy and dresses quite revealing by anyone's standards, but Mira likes the little baby in the video. Yeah, the men probably like the baby too -- not.
Tonight we hope to go to Lilly Park, which is a large cafe/restaurant/small amusement park for kids, to watch France and Portugal. We will need to get there very early to get a table. I can't remember what game it was two weeks ago, where people were sitting in the grass watching the game. At least I know they'll have fresh hot cappuccino in the cool 82 F degree evening.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Egypt's North Coast
We went to the North Coast of Egypt to get away from Cairo and spend some time with Aunt Fawzeyya, Uncle Yehia and Aunt Fatma. We returned late last night, or should I say early this morning.
The North Coast begins about one half hour west of Alexandria and continues to the Egyptian/Libyan border. It is beautiful there. The air is clean, and it is always breezy and cool. The Mediterranean water is various shades of clear blue, and the sand is colored an off white a little larger than a grain of sugar.
Uncle Yehia/Aunt Fatma have a chalet (apartment) overlooking the sea. We have been looking for one for a short time, and in the time we've been looking to buy, Aunt Fawzeyya (Yehia's sister) bought one about three weeks ago also in the same development.
We arrived at the Coast on Wednesday afternoon. It was hot and humid, not much of a breeze. Hassan called the cleaning people and had them come and completely clean out Aunt Fawzeyya's chalet before her arrival. She is 80 years old (Mash'Allah) and although she is very independent and sharper than a tack so to speak, she still appreciates the help.
Yehia, Fawzeyya and Fatma arrived on Thursday so we had one whole day to ourselves. It was really relaxing.
Fawzeyya is very proud to have her chalet. As she should be. She has always talked about buying a place, but never parted with the money. No one thought she would; but she did this time.
One of the reasons Fawzeyya loves it there is because it's always quiet. In Cairo she lives in Ramses Square. It is always loud, hot, and polluted. Her apartment in Cairo is quite large (can't even describe how large it is) and the building is about 100 years old. There is an old elevator with the iron/steel gates. Her ceilings are about 13 feet high. There are even gargoyles adorning the exterior of her apartment, which can be seen and felt.
I guess I always loved old buildings, old furniture and lots of trinkets that people collect over their lifetimes. It says so much about them and what they were like when they were younger and more active.
Back to the North Coast.
There is a large souk (marketplace) on the one end of the development in which we were staying. (It remids me of the boardwalks and amusement parks that used to be in Sea Isle and the Jersey Shore along the US years ago.) Mira had a blast at the souk. She went on rides, stayed up late, and ate the favorite sweet of the sea - fateer.
Fateer is a pastry made up of many thin layers and stuffed with whatever you want. You can get fateer in pizza form, cheese form, or sweet form. Mira fell in love with the sweet form on this trip. She also got Uno cards, and a baseball cap -- never knew she wanted one, but we figured out quickly that each time we went to the souk she found something else she has been "looking" for (not really, but nice try Mira).
I finally found my pure gardenia perfume. There is a small store there that will mix pure fragrances into perfumes. The bottle I got cost 10 LE which is about $2.25 USD. I also found a "proper" bathing suit by Islamic/Egyptian standards - it was 63 LE or about $12 USD. I don't wear the hijab part of the bathing suit yet, but the rest felt quite comfortable on the beach, not worrying about anyone looking at me -- and by the way it's not psychological. It is a fact. I wanted to buy some hijabs I found there, but decided to wait until we return the next time, or I will buy them around here -- I like the cotton gauze kind for summer.
Before we left late last night, 11 p.m., all of us went to a shish kebob place along the side of the road. It didn't look like much, but once you walked in it was beautiful. Trust Uncle Yehia to find the best food around. We all ate shish kebob enough meat for at least a week, along with the usual snacks of tabboulah, tahina, baba ganoush, all kinds of vegetables stuffed with rice (grape leaves, green pepers, zucchini, etc.) and something called Turkish potatoes, which come to find out is a terrific vinegar/oil potato salad; good for me because I don't like mayonnaise.
There was a terrific playground for Mira to play, and she even ate all her macaroni bechamel that we ordered for her. She made some friends for the short time we were there.
Safety is never an issue in Egypt.
Yes, life is tough living in the "war zone."
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
The North Coast begins about one half hour west of Alexandria and continues to the Egyptian/Libyan border. It is beautiful there. The air is clean, and it is always breezy and cool. The Mediterranean water is various shades of clear blue, and the sand is colored an off white a little larger than a grain of sugar.
Uncle Yehia/Aunt Fatma have a chalet (apartment) overlooking the sea. We have been looking for one for a short time, and in the time we've been looking to buy, Aunt Fawzeyya (Yehia's sister) bought one about three weeks ago also in the same development.
We arrived at the Coast on Wednesday afternoon. It was hot and humid, not much of a breeze. Hassan called the cleaning people and had them come and completely clean out Aunt Fawzeyya's chalet before her arrival. She is 80 years old (Mash'Allah) and although she is very independent and sharper than a tack so to speak, she still appreciates the help.
Yehia, Fawzeyya and Fatma arrived on Thursday so we had one whole day to ourselves. It was really relaxing.
Fawzeyya is very proud to have her chalet. As she should be. She has always talked about buying a place, but never parted with the money. No one thought she would; but she did this time.
One of the reasons Fawzeyya loves it there is because it's always quiet. In Cairo she lives in Ramses Square. It is always loud, hot, and polluted. Her apartment in Cairo is quite large (can't even describe how large it is) and the building is about 100 years old. There is an old elevator with the iron/steel gates. Her ceilings are about 13 feet high. There are even gargoyles adorning the exterior of her apartment, which can be seen and felt.
I guess I always loved old buildings, old furniture and lots of trinkets that people collect over their lifetimes. It says so much about them and what they were like when they were younger and more active.
Back to the North Coast.
There is a large souk (marketplace) on the one end of the development in which we were staying. (It remids me of the boardwalks and amusement parks that used to be in Sea Isle and the Jersey Shore along the US years ago.) Mira had a blast at the souk. She went on rides, stayed up late, and ate the favorite sweet of the sea - fateer.
Fateer is a pastry made up of many thin layers and stuffed with whatever you want. You can get fateer in pizza form, cheese form, or sweet form. Mira fell in love with the sweet form on this trip. She also got Uno cards, and a baseball cap -- never knew she wanted one, but we figured out quickly that each time we went to the souk she found something else she has been "looking" for (not really, but nice try Mira).
I finally found my pure gardenia perfume. There is a small store there that will mix pure fragrances into perfumes. The bottle I got cost 10 LE which is about $2.25 USD. I also found a "proper" bathing suit by Islamic/Egyptian standards - it was 63 LE or about $12 USD. I don't wear the hijab part of the bathing suit yet, but the rest felt quite comfortable on the beach, not worrying about anyone looking at me -- and by the way it's not psychological. It is a fact. I wanted to buy some hijabs I found there, but decided to wait until we return the next time, or I will buy them around here -- I like the cotton gauze kind for summer.
Before we left late last night, 11 p.m., all of us went to a shish kebob place along the side of the road. It didn't look like much, but once you walked in it was beautiful. Trust Uncle Yehia to find the best food around. We all ate shish kebob enough meat for at least a week, along with the usual snacks of tabboulah, tahina, baba ganoush, all kinds of vegetables stuffed with rice (grape leaves, green pepers, zucchini, etc.) and something called Turkish potatoes, which come to find out is a terrific vinegar/oil potato salad; good for me because I don't like mayonnaise.
There was a terrific playground for Mira to play, and she even ate all her macaroni bechamel that we ordered for her. She made some friends for the short time we were there.
Safety is never an issue in Egypt.
Yes, life is tough living in the "war zone."
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Enjoying Time with Hassan's Family
On Saturday, we went to HyperOne a really large superstore in 6th of October City - on the other side of Cairo from where we live. We had a great time. I found more candles that I used to buy at Kohl's and they were only 12 LE a piece. It makes me feel a little better when I find in Egypt what I used to enjoy in the US - namely, candles.
After HyperOne, we took some fresh samak (fish) and went to Uncle Yehia's and Aunt Fatma's to eat. Maya was there with her husband and son, Mohamed, who is adorable. Also, Maya's brother, Ashraf was there, visiting from Sharm where he works, along with his Russian wife, Tanya, and their son Taimor (a type of mango in Egypt). We ate fish and enjoyed our time with them.
I love Aunt Fatma and Uncle Yehia. They are very welcoming and although sometimes there's a communications gap between the Arabic and English, we always manage to understand each other -- personalities communicate more than language sometime.
Ashraf's wife, Tanya, on the other hand, was very quiet. Hardly spoke at all. Tanya met Ashraf in Sharm, and I guess the only way they communicate is through English. Their son, Taimor, is two, and hardly speaks at all. I know he's processing the languages.
Hassan tried to talk to Tanya, saying, "What language to do you speak to Taimor, English? Tanya said "No, Russian of course, why should I teach him English. He has no need for it. He can learn it in school. Besides it's an easy language to speak." Whoaa! I didn't say anything, and caught myself in one of my "Martha" (one of my sisters-in-law) moments, and just ignored the statement. Other than that, Tanya didn't speak; not even to Aunt Fatma.
How could anyone not speak to Aunt Fatma (and Yehia for that matter). This woman welcomes everyone into her home, and even though she is very ill, she still insists on cooking for everyone, waiting on everyone, and shooing me out of the kitchen when I want to wash the dishes. If I were to wash the dishes she would say "I am very angry at you." And then smile at me.
After we ate and we were sitting in the living room, Aunt Fatma sat next to me on the sofa and leaned up against me so she could put her feet up. I hugged her and just relished the moment that we shared. Tanya was just staring at me.
I always got along with Aunt Fatma. I will never forget how she welcomed us when I first met her three years ago on vacation. She said to me, "Hassan is my son, and you are my daughter." How can anyone not love a woman whose heart is as big as the sky?
I enjoy the times we spend together and hold them dear in my heart.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
After HyperOne, we took some fresh samak (fish) and went to Uncle Yehia's and Aunt Fatma's to eat. Maya was there with her husband and son, Mohamed, who is adorable. Also, Maya's brother, Ashraf was there, visiting from Sharm where he works, along with his Russian wife, Tanya, and their son Taimor (a type of mango in Egypt). We ate fish and enjoyed our time with them.
I love Aunt Fatma and Uncle Yehia. They are very welcoming and although sometimes there's a communications gap between the Arabic and English, we always manage to understand each other -- personalities communicate more than language sometime.
Ashraf's wife, Tanya, on the other hand, was very quiet. Hardly spoke at all. Tanya met Ashraf in Sharm, and I guess the only way they communicate is through English. Their son, Taimor, is two, and hardly speaks at all. I know he's processing the languages.
Hassan tried to talk to Tanya, saying, "What language to do you speak to Taimor, English? Tanya said "No, Russian of course, why should I teach him English. He has no need for it. He can learn it in school. Besides it's an easy language to speak." Whoaa! I didn't say anything, and caught myself in one of my "Martha" (one of my sisters-in-law) moments, and just ignored the statement. Other than that, Tanya didn't speak; not even to Aunt Fatma.
How could anyone not speak to Aunt Fatma (and Yehia for that matter). This woman welcomes everyone into her home, and even though she is very ill, she still insists on cooking for everyone, waiting on everyone, and shooing me out of the kitchen when I want to wash the dishes. If I were to wash the dishes she would say "I am very angry at you." And then smile at me.
After we ate and we were sitting in the living room, Aunt Fatma sat next to me on the sofa and leaned up against me so she could put her feet up. I hugged her and just relished the moment that we shared. Tanya was just staring at me.
I always got along with Aunt Fatma. I will never forget how she welcomed us when I first met her three years ago on vacation. She said to me, "Hassan is my son, and you are my daughter." How can anyone not love a woman whose heart is as big as the sky?
I enjoy the times we spend together and hold them dear in my heart.
Ma'salaam,
~Marian
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
