nourished mama

Changes are a comin...

2010-10-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

Autumns here.....transformations happening everywhere. Since my miscarriage my eating habits have been .....well not nourishing at all. I went back to wheat and sugar and feel all the worse for it. Only about 2 kg have crept back on but I refuse to return to my former self...
Apart from the weight gain issue , I loathe the tiredness,bloating,heavy head.....oh so boring!

So with the change of Autumn ,changes for me are in order. I want to feel good ,I love feeling good.

I have discovered a great site, I am fascinated by it.....It will become my new way of life,and I will share my journey with you.Have a look around , check out the forum.....

I need to to tend to this now......

see what happens when mummies in blog world....yogurt covered toys mmmmmm

Thought for the day....

Change always comes bearing gifts.
~Price Pritchett

The winner is...

2010-10-06T06:48:00.000-07:00

Hope you enjoy trying it out.{wink}
email me your address at nourishedmama{at}yahoo{dot}co{dot}uk

Where oh where....

2010-09-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Where oh where have I been? This little blog of mine was well and truly deserted.But it was with good reason. I feel ready to return to the blog world ,and hope I will have your company.
I was blessed with a surprise pregnancy and stopped blogging due to very bad morning sickness,I just felt all consumed by it and it stayed with me until my second trimester started. I planned and Allah planned and He is the best of planners .I lost the baby at 13.2 weeks so with recovery and Ramadan around the corner ,time slipped by.....

Alhamdulilah Allah rewards hardship , which calms the heart and soul ..........nothing in this life is lost.

So life resumes ...I have alot to share and I haven't forgotten about the giveaway! I vote myself the worst blog giveaway lady!
A quick warning before I announce the winner {ahem} you lucky thing!
As you know I was trying out the no poo thing. I was so excited to discover the rhassoul clay and even more excited when my husband brought me some from North Africa.
Anyway my husband decided to help me wash my hair with it saying -your going to look so lovely ,just wait and see. So I let him cake my hair with loads of clay,he rinses ....I go to blow dry for the big reveal.
Ummmm. I. did. not. look.lovely. Oh no ........my hair could stand up on its own .A big ,thick ,sticky mass.
Please don't do that at home folks! So what I've learnt from my mother in law recently is that you should use a little,comb through then rinse very very very thoroughly.I have yet to try it again using this method.Although my husband has been using it since we got it with great results.I suppose that's because his hair is short. I so want it to work for me....I will give it another go errrrr soon.
So to the lucky winner{wink} have fun trying it out {if your brave enough} and let us know how you get on.

guest post....

2010-06-01T02:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone.... It's not nourished mama, I've just hijacked her blog to let you know that she is not able to blog at the moment but hasn't forgotten about us and she will be back soon with the giveaway news and a brand new, exciting, informative, funny post (no pressure dear)...stay tuned..

Gifts from the earth and giveaway....

2010-05-21T05:58:00.000-07:00

Husband has returned with gifts from the earth.....

This is my rhassoul clay in it's natural state! Husband tried it while away and was raving about his skin and hair. I was so excited to try it. I have kept up with the no-poo,using baking soda and vinegar for about 3 weeks now. The result were good, hair was in the adjusting stage,so not magnificent but better than when using shampoo.My hair did get greasy about every 2 days and I still had white flakes especially near my forehead .
Wow! I used the rhassoul clay....wow,wow,wow........I love it! Hair doesn't get greasy for about 4 days and then only slightly.My white flakes have dissapearded.My hair has volume, it's shiny.......
I was brought some powdered rhassoul clay aswell which is what I actually used but according to my husband who has used the packaged powered one and the rocks which you powder yourself and he said the rocks are better{I will use my rocks next time}.But I have had success with the packaged one...so I wanted to share and hope someone loves it as much as me.
So just little giveaway......

A small packet of rhassoul clay.....which can be used for washing your hair ,body , and face.
I have actually stopped using soap as well and am using the rhassoul clay to wash my body.
Leave a comment........giveaway ends next friday 28th May....

Thought for the day.....

Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's needs, but not every man's greed.

Wash wednesday challenge...

2010-05-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's been a week since my last post and I'm back at wash wednesday!
I have exciting news about rhassoul clay....but I'll leave that for tomorrow!
I'll leave you with my pics.....enjoy!

Wash wednesday photo challenge....

2010-05-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

A few posts ago...I spoke of my love of hanging washing on the line in the sunshine...seems I am not the only one with this simple love.....cute post over at GardenMama
GardenMama is also having a wash wednesday photo challenge for the month of May.....

seems i'm a day late.....
are you going to join next weeks?

This is where I am....

2010-05-13T06:43:00.000-07:00

London is my home for now
This is my street.....

and this is my 1st floor flat....

but I want and need more.Don't get me wrong....I am grateful-we have a home,water,amenities...comfort.
I'm yearning for a different life....with sun,nature,space......
I want to nuture a garden,a family life in our own outside space.....discovering new hobbies with my close friend,our families growing together,to hear the athan-call to prayer{listen} 5 times a day.....being able to contemplate in nature,sipping mint tea on my own terrace on a warm summers night. These simple things will make me happy.
It seems there is an adventure ahead of me ..inshallah...I can't wait.....

I came across this book in the charity shop....I have read her other book 'Under the Tuscan Sun'..and loved it.I love how she relays the ups and downs,discoveries and growth of her life on her Tuscan farm.I love her connection to the land and how she shares her simple recipes from her kitchen.
So for now I am immersed in her adventure...and waiting for mine to begin.

Thought for the day....

People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains, at the huge waves of the seas, at the long course of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and yet they pass by themselves without wondering.

Say no to ''poo''

2010-04-28T01:20:00.000-07:00

I know I am really really late with this post....it's just been impossible to get things done with a teething baby hanging around my legs{HELP!!}Anyway.....

Yes .....I'm saying goodbye to ''poo''...that's shampoo.Since the birth of my third son & hitting 30 my hair has gone downhill! It just isn't looking healthy anymore.......I've been using a variety of natural shop bought shampoos.....I've never been happy with the result,but grudgingly carried on.

I came across this post..... which amazed and intrigued me.So I'm joining the 'no-poo'movement.It's so liberating to know that we can create our own natural products from food and not spend a fortune on 'natural' products or cause damage with the not so natural.I'm going to use the baking soda and vinegar method to start with.

Here are a few points I found interesting from the article

Shampoo cleans out the dirt in your hair, but is very harsh and also takes the natural oils that make your hair shiny, soft and strong.{even natural shampoos have this effect}

The Materials Safety Data Sheet cautions to avoid body contact with SLS,{sodium lauryl sulfate} it also puts infants and children (whose eye are developing at a more rapid rate) at risk for improper eye development when it's absorbed through the skin and accumulates in eye tissues.

The oils in your hair come naturally out of your scalp to nourish it. Stripping them away causes damage, and breakage over time. In a way you do need conditioner, if you use shampoo - because it covers up the damage that's been done. But you don't need shampoo in the first place, all you're spending your money on is a big bottle of perfumed detergent.

you'll find that the more shampoo you use, the more often you need to use it. In the long run, coating your hair with mineral oil makes it weaker, and more prone to damage.

Anyone with small children who hasn't used baby shampoo will be aware of how, even after days and days of toddler mayhem, even after playing and sweating, their hair does not get greasy.

So that discovery was all exciting but.....what I'm really excited about is this product- Rhassoul Clay
Found deep beneath the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, Rhassoul comes from the Arabic word "rassala" meaning "washing’’.
It can used for washing the body and hair.My husband is on a trip to Algeria{North Africa}...so I have put my order in!I am so excited about this product,especially since it has been used for over 1400 years,its really really natural,good for the environment......going back to simplicity.
So I'm setting myself a challenge of 'no-poo' for one month ........ anyone want to join me? anyone tried it?
Thought for day....

Frugality is one of the most beautiful and joyful words in the English
language, and yet one that we are culturally cut off from understanding and
enjoying. The consumption society has made us feel that happiness lies in
having things, and has failed to teach us the happiness of not having things.
- Elise Boulding

Just passing....

2010-04-23T12:13:00.000-07:00

This is just a quick....just passing post. I'm really excited about a new challenge I'm setting for myself and some amazing natural discoveries I've made which I am eager to apply.But I'm stuck for time today....so please come tomorrow to see what I'm up to! You never know.... you may have been there and done that! {wink}
I'll leave you with pics of my garden cooks.....they made the stinkiest soup ever!{yuck}

And one of my silly ''I love moments.......

What silly moment do you love?.....

Thought for the day...

Manifest plainness,

Embrace simplicity,

Reduce selfishness,

Have few desires.

- Lao-Tzu, Tao Te Ching

Sunny dreams....

2010-04-20T11:09:00.000-07:00

I love the sun...I love nature....I love peace and quiet.....
I am dreaming of a spaces like this......
But for now I have to{ positively} accept my 1st floor London flat with shared overlooked garden that is used by the neighbourhood ~~terrors~~ cats as a toilet!
I have decided to take the little one to the park after dropping kids at school for sun and nature nourishment.And then the older ones after school for their fun in the sun....
My dreams of opening the french doors onto my own garden,eating and watching the kids play outside....sipping sparkling lemon water ...soaking in the nourishing sun rays...will come{inshallah}....patience is all that is needed...and a positive attitude in the meantime...

As much as I love the sun and believe that it is good and needed for better health....if I know I am going to be out at the wrong time of day,for hours with no trees for shade....protection is needed.I wear a head scarf and I absolutely hate my scarf tan that I acquire on my face in the summer time. I have tried so many sunblocks...natural and those not so.....all seem to trigger sore eyes for me and I still get the scarf tan......and from my latest research ,it seems that even some of the natural brands still react with the sun on your skin causing more damage than protection. I found this site that has some interesting findings about some of the products we use.I thought of ordering this and giving it a try!But then I read this and now I'm thinking maybe sunblock isn't such a good idea!I think I need all the vitamin D I can get!...Wearing a hat is an option...although it does look quite odd! In the above article the author did mention the following in the comments section....

From people living in Australia (out working out in the sun a lot), they say that if you:

- eat lots of unrefined coconut oil
- eat cruciferous veggies, especially broccoli sprouts
- take spirulina
- then apply unrefined coconut oil topically to your skin

That provides the best protection.

What do you all think and use?

Just a little update.....
I had my first bit of chocolate yesterday since the challenge ended! I have kept up with the no sugar no wheat.I am feeling and looking so much better ..no bread or chocolate could lure me back! I enjoyed the chocolate moment and then left it behind....I don't need it....its such a brief moment of enjoyment with huge consequences.Still weighing in at 64 kilos...and haven't started exercising again yet. But I am feeling positive! With kids back at school I started oil pulling again with coconut oil this time....and using salt to brush my teeth until I find a tooth powder recipe! yippee for positive change!

Thought for the day...

Nobody can go back and start a new beginning,but anyone can make a new ending.

Maria Robinson

Chatter box....

2010-04-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

This is my little chatter box.....

this is his new thing....constant chatter that makes absolute sense...oh so cute{mashallah}
mmmm...yes he is on the table....another one of his pass times!

I also want to share a link to an interesting post I came across....here
following on from the glycerin issue! Sad to say I haven't started my new no toothpaste regime but my husband has started using only salt......{I am still determined to try no toothpaste ,I am just a bit unorganised at the moment....}

Thought for the day.....

"In reading the lives of great men, I found that the first victory they won was over themselves … self discipline with all of them came first."
-- Harry S Truman, U.S. President

Oliveology giveaway winner....

2010-04-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

Really sorry about the late giveaway draw.....
I strayed from the the blogging world.......busy with my day to day life....and then some!
Happy to be back though!
Eva well done.....please email me your details at nourishedmama{at}yahoo{dot}co{dot}uk

Oliveology tea giveaway..

2010-04-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

Olive tea has been enjoyed by ancient Greek civilizations....it is detoxifying and healing.
Rich in vitamins A ,B, C & E......as well as being anti-viral,anti-bacterial & anti-fungal.
Great for colds, flu & infections.

Leave a comment.....giveaway ends......Friday 9th April...open to all...

I'm the best mummy...

2010-04-01T05:25:00.000-07:00

according to my 6 yr old son. I made pancakes....something I've only ever done once before..long time ago!{I know ..tut tut ...bad mama}He can't stop thinking and talking about them.
Well I made them gluten free...I was really worried they would be horrible but everyone loved them! And I can eat them too! In an ideal world I wish the flour was wholegrain, soaked and freshly ground,the milk raw and unpasteurized.....although grateful for the organic milk and gluten free flour.Thankfully we have access to free range happy eggs. I used this flour ...

It' a great feeling being the best mummy in the world......

Thought for the day....

"Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and
realize they were the big things."
Author Unknown

I love.....

2010-03-30T03:51:00.000-07:00

I love this look.....so feminine.....
beautiful colours....simple.....natural....

The toothpaste dilema....

2010-03-29T05:29:00.000-07:00

I am thinking about stopping using toothpaste! I use natural toothpaste most of the time,and actually never thought much about toothpaste apart from the fluoride issue.
But lately I am having some toothy issues....sensitivity,receding gums.I think there are a number of contributors.....acid saliva pH, acidosis....breastfeeding & pregnancies...or maybe mineral deficiencies? All in all more balance is needed and more than likely a green supplement and possibly some tissue salts...but that's for another day.Back to the toothpaste issue...

My father in law doesn't use toothpaste...he is over seventy,never been to a dentists and has all his teeth.He uses salt and miswak {siwak}.
The problem with toothpaste is the glycerine.
Teeth reenamalize when clean. TO MAKE TEETH CLEAN ONE BRUSHES WITH ANY BAR SOAP. Soap washes off in just 2 rinses. What about toothpastes? Glycerine in all tooth pastes is so sticky that it takes 27 washes to get it off. Teeth brushed with any toothpaste are coated with a film and CANNOT PROPERLY REENAMELIZE. Even the natural pastes contain glycerine! read more here
Tooth soap is available to buy....not sure what I am going to go for yet.{make or buy}But the toothpaste is out for now while I experiment.
I am wondering if the salt will be too abrasive on a daily basis. I am definitely going to start using miswak, make sure I rinse after eating and continue oil pulling.

A bit of info on miswak {siwak}.....

Purifies the mouth
Cleanses the teeth
Strengthens the gums
Prevents cavities
Sweetens the breath
Cleanses the brain
Creates appetite for food
Assists in digestion of food
Clears eyesight
Provides energy

love to hear your thoughts on toothpaste,tooth soap and miswak....

Thought for the day....

Watch the little things; a small leak will sink a great ship. ~Benjamin Franklin

A bit of this and that...

2010-03-28T04:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a long uneventful week!Weight loss still good,down to 64 kg! Exercise is still not happening!.Wondering if anyone wants to do a exercise challenge? These last 4 kg will need budging through exercise ! Let me know who is up for it!
We were gifted with homemade North African couscous and fresh organic broad beans this week so dh had a sudden craving for broad bean couscous and sour milk.{Algerian traditional dish}

The couscous and beans are salted ,oiled and moistened with water before steaming 3 times for 20 mins each time! At each interval moistening and oiling again.It really is delicious{although I can't eat it}.I use Algerian homemade olive oil which we brought back with us from our holidays.This really is the most amazing oil I have ever tasted.And I have been lucky enough to taste all kinds of olive oils....from the really expensive to the normal store brands.For me nothing compares,I love it! So if you are lucky enough to know someone from North Africa ask them to bring you some olive oil...you'll be amazed....

I am loving my new shoes....bought at a discount designer store....all leather ,ever so soft and so feminine.....

And for baby a thrifted pair of leather lovelies!

Have a little health tip too which I am currently trying out.Apple cider vinegar....raw and unpasteurized.

Restore your body's natural pH balance - Your blood is supposed to be slightly alkaline,
Aid digestion - Apple cider vinegar helps stimulate your stomach acid, aiding the digestion of protein and fats. Good digestion is essential for staying healthy and naturally slim.
Promote the growth of healthy microflora - apple cider vinegar is a prebiotic, which feeds probiotics
Stop sugar cravings - use apple cider vinegar next time you have a craving for that bowl of ice cream or piece of chocolate cake. Here's a quick remedy that may stop you from indulging: Add two teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar to a 6 oz glass of filtered water, and drink it down.

Read more here and here
Let me know what you think or if you are already taking it! Would love to make my own .....

Thoughts for the day...
Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.
Confucius

Knowing is not enough; we must apply.
Willing is not enough; we must do.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Thrifting destiny.....

2010-03-20T15:15:00.000-07:00

I believe in destiny ,it's an important part of my faith.....and isn't it amazing when it happens in the simplest way.....
Went off on one of my thrifty adventures searching for those surprising finds that were waiting for me.....
My eyes are always on the lookout for moroccan treats and I found a little something!

and then I was........

I was extremely happy to find Neals Yard goodies....at £ 2.50

I love their stuff.....just find it hard to pay the expensive prices...so this was a real treat find for me. Nourishing mama moments coming my way.......
See what I mean about destiny! This is the second time I have found a box of their goodies!

Thought for the day....

You will usually cause harm when you are hurried and rough, because goodness finds its roots in gentleness. The Messenger of Allah (Blessings and Peace be upon him) said:

"Whenever gentleness is present in something, that thing is beautified; when gentleness is removed from something, that thing becomes spoiled."{taken from ''Don't be sad''}

something I need to remind myself of daily....

Ghee....look what I made!

2010-03-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make Ghee for a while.....and I finally got round to it.First a little info on why it's a good addition to your diet,especially when homemade from unsalted ,organic, pasture fed butter.{apparently it's even better when the butter is unpasteurized or even made by oneself}

* Ayurveda maintains that Ghee is a vital food for healthy skin, mental clarity and good digestion. It also helps the body assimilate nutrients.

* Ghee is salt and lactose free so it is beneficial for those who can't drink milk or eat cheese.

* Ghee is said to have anti-cancer and anti-viral properties.

* Contains CLA or conjugated linolenic acid which aids weightloss, especially stubborn belly fat and has been shown to slow the progress of some types of cancer and heart disease.

* We all need healthy fats in our diet and Ghee is an easily digestible source of saturated fat that contains no trans fats or hydrogenated fats. Ghee, however, is low in the essential omega 3 fatty acids you need for good brain health so supplementation with omega 3's is a needed for a healthy diet.

It also has a high smoking point so is good for cooking with..ie:doesn't burn easily and turn into nasty free radicals..
This is what I did.......

Make sure you sterilize the glass jar,and don't overcook the butter...it really needs to be watched! Few things I will do differently next time.....don't close the jar before ghee has completely cooled and skim the white solids that form on the top as it's simmering.Seems there are different methods of making it....I suppose I will grow more confident with time.

Would love to hear of anyone with more experience of making ghee....or if anyone gives it a go, how it turned out.
I love empire line dresses and maxi dresses....but I never find any in the shops that fit all in the right places...found this lovely pattern.....from Anna Maria now I just wish I could sew!! I would probably tone the colours down...but I love it!

Thought for the day...

If hunger is not the problem, then eating is not the solution. ~Author Unknown

Consistency ......

2010-03-16T04:18:00.000-07:00

I am loving the blue skies and lovely sunshine......spring and summer are my favourite seasons....I am happy to see the back of winter....

I have been on a mission too...to set my priorities straight....I was a little lost .I know I have will power and determination,I just need to apply it to everything in my life.....kids, home....faith.I have started fixing those neglected places in my soul and home.....and pray it will be a change for keeps..

Consistency is the foundation of virtue.{Francis Bacon }

I am still wheat and sugar free......weight has dropped to 65.1 kg.......5 more kilos until I reach my target weight.I have a confession though.I have not been exercising.There seems to be no blessing in my time, so once I am a bit more organised I would like to start exercising again.....it's not because I don't like exercising, it's just mismanagement of time.
I am also interested in alkalizing my body more,which I am trying to do by eating more veg {especially green ones}with all meals,lemon water twice a day and yummy grapefruits.{I am still researching this subject so will post as I find out more}

my favourite breakfast at the moment is 2 scrambled eggs, 1 courgette and 1 fennel chopped and sauteed in butter with salt and pepper and a drizzle of Algerian olive oil.It's so delicious and energising.

and this lovely felt clip was not made by me,oh nooooo.....but by my daughter under the watchful eye of my crafty big sister.My daughter was so pleased with her handy work .....

Thought for the day....

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.

— Aristotle

giveaway winner...

2010-03-08T02:42:00.000-08:00

Itto your the giveaway winner.....well done...
send me your details pls to nourishedmama{at}yahoo{dot}co{dot}uk

Should have mentioned....

2010-02-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

Forgot to mentioned that I finally followed my own advice and have been oil pulling for 2 weeks now. 20 minutes as soon as I get up on a empty stomach.......
well.....I am feeling good about it,my gum that was receding on one of my teeth is growing back! I am amazed!! I never thought I was a phlegmy person but I'm coughing up the most green thick phlegm after the oil pulling....where it's coming from and where it's been hiding I have no idea! Sorry to be so graphic,but I wanted to share and maybe encourage you to try it....
This morning routine is here to stay....

and this was the scene today at home ........ cousins to look after and two, yes two packets of clemontines gobbled up....and all the bananas!

and this is how you hide unsightly marks on kiddies wall until you manage to repaint.....get them to draw lots of colourful pictures and stick em up!

Thinking back.....

2010-02-26T03:52:00.000-08:00

A month has come and gone, a challenge completed......goals have been achieved. I gained so much from this past month,learnt alot about how I use food for emotional comfort and boredom....but pleased to say it is possible to overcome these issues and have a more balanced approach to food .I learnt to listen to my body and not eat with my eyes and overburden my body, soul and mind.
It all seemed to happen on it's own after the second week and feel I now have a good rhythm of knowing when I need to eat! I'm not bloated at all and the water retention has disappeared.Not to mention the weight loss and more energy I have......so even though I have completed the challenge I have decided to keep going without the wheat and sugar.....why would I want to stop now when I feel so good? What do you think? What would you do if you were me? Would love to hear your thoughts!

T o celebrate the end of the challenge.....a little giveaway....

A little address book and two notebooks.....please leave a comment.....and these pretty books can be yours.....look forward to hearing from you all......
giveaway ends....friday 5th March...
open to international readers

Thought for the day....

'Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments'
Jim Rohn

Tumble in the jungle...& rebounding

2010-02-22T01:20:00.000-08:00

Three more days of the challenge left......can't believe a month has past!
I have dropped a dress size and am weighing in at 67 kilos.....which is a 5 kilo drop in weight.I am so pleased,feeling more energetic...and more comfortable in my skin......blogging about my challenge certainly helped me to keep on track so thank you all for taking the time to read my blog!
We had a tumble in the jungle this weekend! A great indoor centre for kids to run around, climb and jump in a jungle themed hall.

Of course they loved it.....got me thinking how little the kids get to run around and do exercise. Just before I got pregnant with my third child I bought a rebounder/trampoline.I kept it at my mothers house and forgot about it....until yesterday! Its back at home and I have read great things on the net about the amazing benefits of rebounding,for me and the kids! So plan for the kiddies is....5 mins each in the morning before school and 10 mins after school! Fun and so good for them!

I will be jumping too,building up slowly...to at least 20 mins a day.....
A few interesting facts I found, it's really great for our forgotten lymphatic system....

It takes only two minutes of rebounding to flush the entire lymphatic system, while cleansing and strengthening cells and lymph nodes. A further benefit to the body is that during this brief time span the white blood cells of the immune system triple in number and remain elevated for an hour. These specialized cells play a major role in the body’s defense against illness and disease. For one full hour their activity is increased as they perform their tasks of destroying and eliminating cancer cells and other toxins, expending themselves in the process. An hour after rebounding for two minutes the white blood cell count returns to normal
read more here

Circulates more oxygen to the tissues
Tones up the glandular system
Helps the blood circulate
Strengthens every muscle in your body
Increases red and white blood cell production
Helps move waste out of the system
Stimulates metabolism
It is proven to be safer than jogging since there is less impact on the joints

Studies have found that 2 minutes of rebounding is equivalent 6 minutes of running, 10 minutes of swimming and 22 minutes of walking, which is very appealing for any one with a busy schedule.

I am very excited to see how rebounding will benefit me.......hope you will try it too.

Baby has decided he needs to help out with the chores....and I am ever so grateful.

Thought for the day...

"A healthy attitude is contagious but don’t wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier."- Anonymous

the good and not so good

2010-02-17T01:19:00.000-08:00

One more week of the challenge to go.......I'm feeling great....it's the most positive thing I have done in a long time.The cravings have subsided,weight has been shifted......a new me emerging.The break through for me has been the no sugar,I don't need it anymore and it's so empowering to not have it holding me down.Went to the party on Sunday,plenty of delicious cakes and goodies on offer,I made my own great party food to share which went down a storm,{forgot to take pics} think......cocktail sticks with mixed herb chicken ,olives ,pineapple,sun dried tomatoes...mmmmmm.......mixed houmous dips with crunchy tortilla chips.
I felt so light ,the feeling of not being bloated was so liberating.
I have been a unproductive on the exercise front.I just could not get it done last week....teething babies are such hard work and I have had many sleepless nights which left me exhausted.

The job of being mummy is so sweet yet so overwhelming.More of the good news,baby is taking his first steps and tiring of my beloved wooden toys and moving onto his big brothers animal collection.

Projects I started have been left untouched...

knitting?which knitting,I can't even remember where I put it!.....I love the idea of making and crafting.....it just doesn't happen for me.....maybe I should just stick to reading what others have made......
here's a list of things I wish I could do

make fermented vegetables {sauerkraut...} oh so good for you
do coffee enemas {oh so scary}
read more {brain exercise}
love more {give more attention to my kiddies,they deserve it}
contemplate and worship more
make things for my home and kids

seems easy..so why can't I do it...what am I afraid of ?..arrggggggg I can... I must... I will.....

Thought for the day...

"When the world says, "Give up,"
Hope whispers, 'Try it one more time.' "
~ Unknown

Day of gifts

2010-02-10T05:45:00.000-08:00

Wanted to share pics of my first blog giveaway win. It arrived today.....
Won a India giveaway from the Lavender & Limes blog

pink and turquoise bangles

lovely blue tealight holder

a vintage indian throw

and a bag....

love the vibrant colours.....so excited!

and this was a lovely unexpected gift from one of the ladies from the coffee morning
the arabic alphabet painted on canvas....

so a great day of gifts.....and friendship.

moroccan dreams

2010-02-07T11:08:00.000-08:00

End of week two of the challenge!! I am feeling really good,bit tired from a teething baby that doesn't want to sleep and another round of tummy bugs for the kids!
Amazing how different I feel,has to be a sign that the wheat and sugar needed to go ! It's so hard though to change longstanding eating habits! I think I have given my digestion a battering over the years and it needs some nourishing so I am doing the right thing.Perseverance I say....
Busy week ahead....hosting a coffee morning on Wednesday and going to a wedding party on Sunday .......for both events I will have to come up with appetising wheat and sugar free goodies to eat....I can have fun and be on a challenge!Something nice to wear has to be bought so I am rewarding myself for the second week of challenge with a nice outfit.....I love long skirts ,hippie style...the only one i could find in the shops at the moment is here....what do you think?Going to wear silver and turquoise jewelry,not sure on the top yet!
Been a bit lazy about picture taking so I thought I'd share some of the things on my I want list...hoping these will come my way via car boot sales...{yeah right} or a Moroccan holiday{double yeah right}oh well I can dream.....

that's it for now,sorry for uninspiring post.....guess we all have days like that!

Thoughts for the day...

''The successful women is supplicated for, praised by her husband ,loved by her neighbours and respected by her friends''

''A women may turn the home into a paradise or into an unbearable hell''

Pukka tea winner

2010-02-07T08:43:00.000-08:00

The winner is........

Fruitful fusion handpicked by my son......please email me your details and happy tea drinking!

Food & moroccan inspiration

2010-02-03T02:36:00.000-08:00

Challenge is going well ,looking and feeling better already......
Posting a few pics of what I have been eating for breakfast and lunch..

oats & quinoa porridge with stewed figs,cinnamon,yogurt & flax!

That is supposed to be poached egg on top of the veg....mmmmm need some practice!

Delicious chicken soup and salad...

Feeling positive ,although I feel in need of soul nourishing! Something I need to concentrate on, asap!
''Do not be content to have some dark areas in your life,for the light is there,all you have to do is turn it on and see it shining''

Some more Moroccan inspiration from around the house! I love this hanging tile,the colours are beautiful especially against a white wall.....I got it free at a give or take day!

This is a corner in my bathroom,mirror is not in perfect condition,more rustic but I love it and it cost me £1 !

and this has to be one of my favourite things in the house.I got this Moroccan mirror for free,yes for free ,on freecycle!......yayee for recycling and kind souls!
and this letter holder was also free from a give or take day....I love the Moroccan pattern!

Thought for the day....

''Man may regret speaking,but he will never regret silence''

Magic Onions giveaway

2010-02-03T02:22:00.000-08:00

Yes Magic Onions is having another giveaway ,please visit her blog ,be inspired and hope for a treat! This what you can win!...ends tonight so hurry!

Pukka tea giveaway

2010-02-03T01:52:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! Having a little giveaway,of two of my favourite Pukka teas-

Three Mint: to soothe and refresh the digestion
Refresh: to uplift and balance

just leave a comment.....

giveaway open till Sunday 7th Feb......feel free to post on your blog,you'll get extra entries.Leave a link to your blog.
open to international readers

challenge day 4 & 5

2010-01-29T07:38:00.000-08:00

How is everyone getting on?...Week 1 is almost over! Somebody mentioned in the comments that it's a lot harder than they imagined!.It is hard ,and will take a couple of weeks for the cravings to subside. I am making sure I eat enough,not depriving myself but choosing real food to snack on rather than bread & biscuits!...I have noticed a huge reduction in water retention and bloated tummy...I feel more energetic and lighter.Keep going everyone...I know I am doing the best thing for me.....I want to feel good....! I have chosen my treat for completing week 1. I will be buying it on Monday...
Let me explain!.....As a stay at home mummy I am always ,constantly washing up!
Combined with the cold winter my hands are crying out for some nourishing. I have been eyeing up this

L’OCCITANE hand creme {here}

It's a bit pricey...but it is a treat! I have also decided to wear gloves when washing up!

If your doing the treat thing what are you going to get?

Snack for today is houmous with carrot and celery sticks! Usually around four in the afternoon I start thinking of the biscuit tin, this is my nourishing alternative for today.This is the best houmous I have ever tasted,I can't eat other brands ,it just doesn't compare.Found in my local health shop ,and can also be found at Wholefoods , The Grocery or Planet Organic in the UK .If you can find it ,it's amazing.

Exercise is going well,doing my step dvd which is by Susan Powter.....it is very old fashion,probably made about 20 years ago but I like it , its very controlled ,using resistance and not a a lot of bouncing up and down...I found it at car boot sale for 10p!!
I tried doing toning exercises without a dvd but felt I needed a dvd to make sure I was doing the right amount of repetitions and good moves with maximum results so I have ordered this dvd from amazon.....

heard good things about it...and hoping for a super body!!
off now to wash up{with gloves!!} .....and do my step dvd !

happy no wheat,no sugar & exercising day!

Thoughts for the day:

'Ask God for certainty [of faith] and well-being; for after certainty, no one is given any gift better than health!'
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)

"Take benefit of five before five: Your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you are preoccupied, and your life before your death."
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)

challenge day 2 & 3

2010-01-27T02:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a crazy challenging day!Decided to do a deep kitchen clean which totally took over my day! Happy now its done ,but because of being disorganised lunch was late I was ravished and so tempted to grab the nearest pitta bread and gobble it up.I took a few deep breathes and said NO I want to feel better! Had some left over quinoa in the fridge ,so lightly sauteed some onion,celery and carrot in butter...added quinoa,tuna,salt and pepper! Thought ..mmmmm...this doesn't look appetising but it tasted delicious and baby liked it too which was a big surprise!

Today I have a empty fridge and a house full of kiddies{babysitting} so I had to make something out of what I have for lunch....

this what I am using...

to make a blended veg soup with garlic and ginger with quinoa flakes added in ten minutes before the end.Whats' the quinoa good for?

Complete protein. Quinoa contains all 9 essential amino acids that are required by the body as building blocks for muscles.
Magnesium helps relax your muscles and blood vessels and effects blood pressure. Quinoa contains high levels of this vital nutrient.
Fiber. Quinoa is a wonderful way to ensure that you consume valuable fiber that eases elimination and tones your colon.
Manganese and copper. Quinoa is a good source of these minerals that act as antioxidants in your body to get rid of dangerous cancer and disease-causing substances.
Quinoa acts as a prebiotic that feeds the microflora (good bacteria) in your intestines.
Quinoa is easily digested for optimal absorption of nutrients.
Quinoa is gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance, people on a celiac diet

read more about it here

Before I go to eat ,exercise and tidy up

look what hubby came home yesterday with from the second hand shop...it's just missing 1 handle....but isn't it lovely?.....I am going to look for a colourful, porclain knob and move the draw to the middle ,just to add a splash of colour and make it unique!

Thought for the day:

“Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship.”
Gautama Siddharta

“Wisdom is to the soul what health is to the body”
De Saint

challenge day 1

2010-01-25T05:29:00.000-08:00

Day 1 has arrived! Hope you are all feeling positive and have had a good start?
I started my morning with a large mug of warm water with the juice half a lemon squeezed in, good for getting the bowels moving and clearing out the system from the day before! I also finely grated a teaspoon of ginger ,put it in my mouth and followed with a mouthful of warm water!

I wanted to share some info on the magnificent fig.A really amazing,nourishing food to include in your diet,dried or fresh! Great for a sweet treat when sugar is out!

A few facts from the net!
Fig is a highly alkaline food, therefore helps to regulate the pH of the body. Figs are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols.Fig is known for its soothing and laxative properties. Figs are low in fat and sugar.Figs are rich in Calcium. Calcium helps to strengthen bones. Fig is rich in Potassium. Potassium helps to control blood sugar.Figs contain Pectin, a soluble fiber. When fiber goes through the digestive system, it mops up globes of cholesterol and carries them out of body.So, it helps in healthy bowel function and prevents constipation.Health benefits of figs can be attributed to the presence of ,minerals and vitamins in them. Figs contain vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, calcium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, sodium, potassium and chlorine

I have bought myself rehydrated whole dried figs...yum...so delicious!

Exercise has been done and dusted for today! Had to push myself but it was worth it and is so important!
Made a good breakfast and lunch ,so not missing the bread or sugar.The trick is to make sure you eat enough, at the right time and just filling up on extra veggies!
So excited to try new things instead of just grabbing a sandwich at lunch or toast for breakfast!
Please share any ideas for shunning those cravings or delicious recipes you come up with.
I am thinking of treating myself at the end of each week....with whatever I fancy! jewelry,perfume,creme,oils ...just to spur me on !

Thoughts for day:

The reason most people never reach their goals is that they don't define them, or ever seriously consider them as believable or achievable. Winners can tell you where they are going, what they plan to do along the way, and who will be sharing the adventure with them.
Denis Watley

Do it now. You become successful the moment you start moving toward a worthwhile goal.
Unknown

The Magic Onions giveaway

2010-01-21T11:07:00.000-08:00

Just been visiting over at The Magic Onions blog.She has a beautiful blog with great inspirational things to make.There is a lovely guest post about nature and children with stunning pictures{here}...and a fantastic puzzle giveaway to enter! {here}

please visit and enjoy........

a bit of this and that

2010-01-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

I started making something!!...It's so much harder than I thought.I take my hat off to all you makers of lovely things! It's a first of many {I hope} and what is it you ask??
mmmmmmm....
a felt lavender bag.....not finished yet and oh so not perfect....

and whats this ,I hear you say?

started stocking up for my challenge: oatmeal,sprouted ground flaxseed...and sardines in olive oil!.....not to have together I must add!
much to say about flaxseed but that's for another day.....and the sardines? love or hate them they are good for your bones, skin, brain and a quick protein fix when the bread tin is beckoning.I dress them up with lemon or apple cider vinegar,chopped red onion and red pepper!

housework is calling

Thought for the day.....

As long as a man stands in his own way, everything seems to be in his way.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

ps: I am so happy some of you are joining me on the challenge,and others are already on the journey,may we have good health,souls and minds....inshallah

on a mission

2010-01-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

Here are the statistics:
weight-72 kg
height- 163 cm

ideal weight for height= between 60 & 63 kilos

So 10 kilos need to go,along with the bloating,fluid retention.....and tiredness!
How am I going to do it?......this is my plan......because I don't do .....diet pills ,calorie counting, slimming bars/shakes........I want real, nourishing food I can enjoy until my belly is satisfied!

So the sugar has to go......

and the wheat........

and exercise at least 5 times a week.......

and yes that is a baby on my step because the reality is ...that every 5 mins or so I have to drag him off the step so I can do my dvd!....yes the joys of trying to be a fit mummy!

Why the wheat,well from previous experiments,cutting out wheat does amazing things for my body,the weight melts off, the water retention disappears, my mind clears, energy soars and bloated tummy is no more.My conclusion is my body can't handle wheat, I have researched and to confirm I'm going to do a one month elimination.

So from Monday the 27th January....

sugar is out
wheat is out
exercise is in

all for 1 month...now, I like food , I will be eating normal meals ,normal portions,snacks....just without the above...
would love it if anyone wanted to join me on my challenge but I understand it's quite hard , I'm on a mission though.....hope you will enjoy my journey!

Thoughts for the day:

Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.
B.K.S Iyengar

"Do not cast yourselves into destruction by your own hands." (2:195)

I am the only one that can help myself.....in mind ,body and soul......

A day in pictures

2010-01-13T06:46:00.000-08:00

I attempted baking......have you ever seen a cake so thin!

and these coconut macaroons....well I didn't have grease proof paper and they stuck and they are way too sweet!

I won't pass the recipes on...I am a hopeless baker...all the more reason to go sugar free....which I have yet to set a date for!

These arrived in the post today....hoping to make some pretty goodies........

and this is how far I am with my knitting!....getting there slowly....veeeerrry slowly

and I'm drinking nettle tea.....loose ,brewed for 20 mins,covered.....and drunk through a straw to stop my teeth from staining!

Why nettle tea?

Nettle tea is a great overall healthy tonic, helping your blood cells build, function and circulates properly

Because of its iron content, it helps with anemia.

healing benefit of nettle tea is helping the body heal itself of hemorrhoids

offers relief from seasonal allergies, strengthens the bones, hair and nails and nurtures the lungs, nervous, hormonal and immune systems
Nettles are especially rich in chlorophyll

A cup of this rich, green, velvety nettle infusion per day is deeply nourishing for women at any stage of life

The taste is grassy ,so might not appeal to everyone...I like it and I think I need it....
the only problem is I'm the queen of procrastination and inconsistency!

Inconsistency with ourselves is the great weakness of human nature.

-- Joseph Addison

sugarholic mama

2010-01-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

What a week.....this is what I did and didn't achieve.....
I didn't

sleep
oil pull
exercise
drink ginger tea
have time for me
eat soaked almonds

I did

look after a sick{again!!} family while being sick myself {stomach bugs}
knitted
decluttered kids cupboards
be thankful
comfort eat........and eat and eat.......{mmmmmm}

I am praying we've been through the worst of the winter viruses and can start to fall into a good rhythm.
I am so grateful that my children do not have serious illnesses.....and I highly respect any mother that dedicates her life to caring for a sick child.....after 1 week I was nearing my exhaustion level.

'Hardship should make one grateful for having been saved from that which is greater than the hardship with which he was afflicted.'

So not quite the start to a new year that I hoped for........
I have come to the conclusion that I am a sugarholic mama......and it's something that needs to be overcome if I want to move on from where I am now! I have the sugar blues.....I am addicted and it's taking it's toll....I need to act now,and kick sugar out the door.
Did you know that sugar is more addictive than heroin ?
It's also a non-nutritive empty calorie that robs the body of vitamins and minerals.It creates an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Mental and emotional disorders are often linked to sugar in the diet.Sugar has been proven to destroy the germ-killing ability of white blood cells for up to five hours after ingestion.Many people believe that sugar is only bad for you when ingested in enormous amounts, when actually "normal" amounts are damaging to the body.And sugar is in everything,..even bread. Interesting book to read is...Sugar Blues, by William Dufty.
I have researched on the net and from books,there is so much info to relay to you ,it would take pages and pages ...try to research yourself and see if its affecting you too....I sincerely think it's affecting my life. I'll keep you informed on how I get on....and how this sugarholic mama is no more! here are another 146 reasons to give sugar the boot.

Now onto a little eye candy treats from the good old second hand shop! A little plate for used tea bags and a lovely wooden calender ornament for my daughter....

You change the date and month by turning the blocks around! I love great charity finds!

I love wooden toys too....I found this walker and rocking horse at the second hand shop...little one is very happy!!

Leave you with this.....

"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve themselves."
Anne Frank

The power to overcome addiction lies in the belief that it is possible, combined with a consistent strength of spirit.

The right attitude.....

2010-01-03T03:26:00.000-08:00

My two other online treats arrived!They are so pretty .....especially lit up at night.

Think I need to slow down on the treats now and maybe reward myself if I keep up with my exercise ,soul feeding and nourishing regime!
New dvd to try out today......this year I'm going to be a fit nourished mama! yummy mummy here I come.......exercise took a back seat while we were all sick....and I can feel it....this is on the 'must do ' list.

Lovely hat knitted by my mum.......doesn't he look cute!.....hope I can make him one too....when I do eventually finish my first scarf! Moto this year....do do do.........not I'm going to!
If you are truthful with yourself and have a firm, solid resolve, you will undoubtedly convince yourself of the following: Today is my last day to live. When you achieve this attitude, you will profit from every moment of your day, by developing your personality, expanding your abilities, and purifying your deeds.
`Today is my only day' is one of the most important statements in the dictionary of happiness, for those who desire to live life in its fullest splendor and brilliance.
TAKEN FROM 'DON'T BE SAD'

Today I wanted to talk about oil pulling...I bought this book a while ago

I tried it for less than a week quite a long time ago......I did notice an improvement in my teeth.....I just didn't keep it up......here's a bit of info from the net.....

Oil Pulling was discovered by world renowned Physician Dr. F. Karach, M.D.

In the morning before breakfast on an empty stomach you take one tablespoon in the mouth but do not swallow it. Move Oil Slowly in the mouth as rinsing or swishing and Dr Karach puts it as ' sip, suck and pull through the teeth' for fifteen to twenty minutes. This process makes oil thoroughly mixed with saliva. Swishing activates the enzymes and the enzymes draw toxins out of the blood. The oil must not be swallowed, for it has become toxic. As the process continues, the oil gets thinner and white. If the oil is still yellow, it has not been pulled long enough. It is then spit from the mouth , the oral cavity must be thoroughly rinsed and mouth must be washed thoroughly. Just use normal tap water and good old fingers to clean.

Clean the sink properly, you can use some antibacterial soap to clean the sink. Because the spittle contains harmful bacteria and toxic bodily waste. If one were to see one drop of this liquid magnified 600 times under a microscope, one would see microbes in their first stage of development.

It is important to understand that during the oilpulling / oilswishing process one's metabolism is intensified. This leads to improved health. One of the most striking results of this process is the fastening of loose teeth, the elimination of bleeding gums and the visible whitening of the teeth.

The oil pulling /swishing is done best before breakfast. To accelerate the healing process, it can be repeated three times a day, but always before meals on an empty stomach.

Some believe it's a load of nonsense....I am going to experiment for a month starting tomorrow!

If it works I will have whiter,stronger teeth.....increased metabolism,fresher breath......if not,at least I tried and it costs next to nothing!
read more about it here

Thoughts for the day.....

A year from now you may wish you had started today. ~
Karen Lamb

"If and When were planted, and Nothing grew."
Proverb

Golden wonder

2010-01-01T09:18:00.000-08:00

Taken internally, turmeric is a friendly healer to the liver and stomach, promoting healthy mucus membranes and skin.

It is also used as a digestive aid. There is also some evidence that it is even helpful in lowering cholesterol. Turmeric also has a drawing quality, to draw out toxins, dry up secretions, and to heal.
One way of including turmeric in your diet is to make golden yogurt.....make sure you use good quality organic turmeric......
first you need to make the.......

Turmeric paste
3 Tbsp. turmeric
3 cups water
Bring turmeric and water to a boil. Let it boil until it forms a thick paste. It must boil at least 8 minutes. If necessary, add more water. Once it starts to thicken slightly, you must stir it constantly to prevent scorching. Store in a glass jar (it will stain a plastic storage container) in the fridge.
1 cup of yogurt to 1tsp or 1 tbsp ......according to what you can tolerate taste wise!

whats it good for?

Stomach & Digestive Problems: eat at least 1 cup a day of the yogurt turmeric combo. This is also good for intestinal candidiasis; the yogurt brings in the good bacteria for healthy intestinal flora and, since turmeric is a natural anti-fungal, it helps to counter the yeast overgrowth.

It's good for the skin too......and stops bleeding when applied to cuts and grazes.I have sliced my fingers many times in the kitchen and it helps to slow down the bleeding.
here's a .....

Simple Skin-Brightening Mask
Ingredients:

Turmeric powder

Plain yogurt

This is an ideal face mask because it only requires two ingredients, both of which are found in the home and are inexpensive. Milk nourishes and hydrates the skin while calming redness and irritation. Turmeric, derived from a plant native to South Asia, has antioxidant and skin-lightening properties.
Mix 1-2 spoonfuls of yogurt with 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder.....apply to face ,leave for 10-15 mins...rinse well and moisturize. Be careful of staining!!!!

I will be having my golden yogurt with my soaked oats tomorrow morning......why soaked oats? why lemon? read about it here

Sadly I don't live in the beautiful countryside but in a busy city, the only nature being found in the parks......we went to the park today ,me with my knitting...kids and baby in tow. It was so cold.....I managed 2 rows before kids asked to go home!! At least we were in nature for 10 minutes!!.....oh how I long for more!

Thoughts for day.......

The best six doctors anywhere
And no one can deny it
Are sunshine, water, rest, and air
Exercise and diet.
These six will gladly you attend
If only you are willing
Your mind they'll ease
Your will they'll mend
And charge you not a shilling.

~Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields

If ye would count up the favours of Allah, never would ye be able to number them: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. AN-NAHL (THE BEE)

Little by little

2009-12-30T08:51:00.000-08:00

I have had a busy 2 weeks!....
We all caught very bad flu,teething baby and my daughter had a 'Adenoidectomy' operation,so.......nourished mama.....well she lost her way a bit!
But I am back ......and determined, ....too many biscuits eaten and not enough exercise...

I finally started to knit!It took me about 15 minutes to figure out how to cast on, but it all came flooding back from my school days....and I have now knitted about 5 rows!! Kids were amazed to see mummy 'making' something, they were waiting for the scarf to appear...it's going to take a while ......a long while... I said!!
The 'To do' list has come out too. I need to set my goals big and small.......this year I would like there to be change and progress......

All good work is done the way ants do things, little by little. Lafcadio Hearn

God grant me the serenity to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one I can, and the wisdom to know it's me. Unknown

I am dreaming of ........ a simple home in the sun, a growing friendship, a happy family,a deeper faith, a healthier body, being creative and resourceful ,to inspire and be inspired,to give more,contemplate more,appreciate more........

may the year ahead be the stepping stones to the things we yearn for........

Now...onto my home treats....
I attempted to do the sales!! It was just too hectic, so I treated myself to some online treats....this one arrived today.......

a hanging Moroccan star lantern!..Waiting for husband to come home to help me hang it.I do like making my home pretty....

Thought for the day:

Fear less, hope more. Eat less, chew more. Whine less, breathe more. Talk less, say more. Hate less, love more . . . And all good things are yours.
Swedish Proverb

God's pharmacy

2009-12-23T02:32:00.000-08:00

Part of the reason for starting this blog was to help me with eating food better suited to my body, to nourish myself and stop feeling uncomfortable and unwell but to realize my full potential.I have my good days and then my bad...I am aiming for balance.....the way God intended.....

“What killed mankind is the introduction of food on top of food before it could be digested.” Al-Harith Bin Kalada

Spiritual benefits of eating less: Humbleness of the heart, strengthening of understanding, decrease in lowly desires and anger. Overeating induces the opposite. Al-Hasan Al-Basri said:

“O, son of Adam, eat with one third of your stomach and drink with one third and leave one third of your stomach to breathe so that you may think.”

“No human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach.''

Muhammad Bin Wasi said: “Whoever eats little will feel cleared and humble. Overeating weighs a person down and stops him from much of what he wants (to accomplish).”

Introduction of food on top of food is one my problems and eating certain foods that just don't agree with me!{wheat} Why is addiction so hard?
I want to eat beneficial,nourishing,simple food just enough to satisfy me.

When I manage to avoid wheat I like to eat sprouted spelt bread.It is moist and sweet and easy on the digestion.I like to eat it lightly toasted with scrambled eggs and a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top. Eggs and olive oil are amazing foods and incredibly good for you.When you consume high quality nourishing simple foods you feel satisfied with less, I tend to eat more when I don,t eat well! Going back to basics.....thats where I want to go,I am tired of being tired all the time, there is so much to do.......

I,ll leave you with this......

on the mend

2009-12-21T04:54:00.000-08:00

Baby is feeling much better today.....and I am free! I can actually get on with things.I used the homeopathic baby kit and sabucol syrup for the last 2 days and I do feel like they really helped.
Grateful for natural medicine, a gift from our Creator!
Today I wanted to create a different atmosphere in the house,so I burnt a lovely woody blend of oils which contains:

Frankinsense-healing,inspiring,fortitude,peace
Cinnamon-energizing,strength,practicality
Orange- Joy,creativity,concentration
Myrrh-positivity
Pine- exhilaration,mindfulness,humility,alertness
Clove-happiness,focus,self-awareness

It has a very earthy ,woody,spicy smell......I do feel energized and in a good frame of mind, it is quite different to the way I feel when I burn lavender and rose!

''Good smells also have a profound effect on the soul, which yearns for beauty, whether limitary or absolute. ''

From this material which I bought ages ago........I would like to try the scalloped fabric garland tutorial from sew mama sew

I will give myself a month to do this as I am a complete newbie to the world of sewing!
Now.....where is that sewing machine hiding?

Just chatted to my friend about her 3 o'clock snack,she wanted something a little different to her usual......found this recipe.......I only have 1/2 of the ingredients so will have to shop tomorrow and try them out......

Sunny coconut fennel flapjacks
200g rolled oats
100g virgin coconut oil
50g maple syrup
50g sunflower seeds
50g dessicated coconut
2 tablespoon's fennel

Melt virgin coconut oil over a low heat. Remove from heat and add rolled oats, maple syrup, coconut, sunflower seeds and fennel seeds. Place in oiled baking tray. Heat at 200C for 20-25 mins. Allow to cool, Divide. Share.

I'm off now to turn my day into a positive one!

Thoughts for the day....

When it comes to eating right and exercising, there is no "I’ll start tomorrow." Tomorrow is disease. - V. L Allineare

Sometimes in life the difference between success and failure is right motivation.

lantern passion winner

2009-12-20T06:23:00.000-08:00

the winner of the lantern passion giveaway is...INES
well done......enjoy
pls contact me with your email address...

thankyou for your sweet comments, I wish I could send you all one.....

more morrocan ispiration

2009-12-19T13:40:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share some more of my morrocan inspired things around the house.
Everything was bought for very little money from fetes ,car boot sales and charity shops.....I am very grateful that I could fill my home with things I love and that inspire me....rustic simple morrocan design.

The silver table is for serving tea, the little chair is actually a milking stool, the pot used to be used for cooking soup,and leather pouf.......well it was a bargain at £1......

I bought these 2 lampshades today, I thought they were quite morrocan inspired,they look lovely at night...my picture taking doesn't do them justice......

and the little one gave me 20 mins of peace climbing up and down the ladder....he was fascinated by it ,good to see him smiling even though he is very sick.

I haven't been able to exercise or cook nourishing meals for myslf......
I really hope next week will be better......I miss looking after myself!! at least I have shiny hair from my oil treatment yesterday....

I leave you with this.....

Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow.
Doug Firebaugh

What progress, you ask, have I made? I have begun to be a friend to myself.
Hecato, Greek philosopher

tired mama

2009-12-18T07:13:00.000-08:00

I am so tired! My poor little baby boy has been sick for 2 days.Non stop crying day and night,fever, running nose,cough.........
and just wants his mummy. I am sleep deprived and haven,t been able to do a alot of nourishing for myself......but there is always light at the end of the tunnel......

Verily, with hardship, there is relief (Qur'an 94:6)

The job of being mummy is truly the hardest but the most rewarding.I thought this was quite funny......
They joys of motherhood are never fully experienced until the children are in bed.
- Author Unknown.
Sometimes I really can,t wait till they are all asleep

We did manage to make some candle holders with the kids cousins.......from old jars and tissue paper....

As for myself,I did manage to oil my hair this morning and I am hoping to have a calming candle lit bath when husband comes home.....I think I deserve it.
Hoping baby will be better tomorrow so I get back on track.

Leave you with this.....

And it may be that you dislike a thing that is good for you.....

Quran 2:216

Before its violent revolution, France imprisoned two brilliant poets: one an optimist, the other a pessimist. They both squeezed their heads through the bars of their cell windows. The optimist then stared at the stars and laughed, while the pessimist looked at the dirt of a neighboring road and wept. Look at the other side of a tragedy - a circumstance of pure evil does not exist, and in all situations one can find goodness and profit and reward from Allah.

resist resist

2009-12-15T11:29:00.000-08:00

Today I did my resistance and toning dvd. Lots of squats and hand weights! Why is it good to do resistance training as well as aerobic execise?
Resistance training increases your resting metabolism,so even when you are having a nourishing knitting session your body is still burning calories and fat.Muscle gives you shape and definition and we like a bit of that!!......It should be done at least 3 times a week with rest days inbetween.
I am doing one day resistance and one day aerobic...alternating as the week goes on.

It is a great way to supercharge your metabolism......c'mon ......give it a go..you won't regret it, especially when you see your shape changing.

Thoughts for the day:

Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness. ~Edward Stanley

Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it. ~Plato

lantern passion GIVEAWAY.....

2009-12-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

This is my beautiful new lantern all lit up at night.I just LOVE it.
so........to celebrate my new blog....I want to share my lantern passion!
Leave a comment below ,about anything nourishing and I,ll draw a name from a hat on Sunday!

shopping heaven

2009-12-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

Let's start from the morning!! Woke up to find a lovely gift for the little one from his daddy.....a gorgeous dinner set.....it's just the cutest design....just a shame the food doesn't stay in the bowl but rather tipped out on the table!! oh well....

Did a quick tidy up and decided to take a brisk walk to the market!.....just in case I got carried away with shopping and had no time for exercise!! which is exactly what happend! I am sooooo predictable!
Oh I was in shopping heaven, it was just my day today!
Went to the charity shops ,hoping to find something interesting or unusual!
This is my haul........

What did I find?.... knitting needles and knitting magazines......yes I am going to attempt to knit, haven't tried since my school days so it may take some time to get the hang of it but watch this space......
I found a great book called......

love the writng inside,very simple, authentic, nourishing recipes ,I am so excited to try some of them out.

The blue ornament is a candle holder,I just love the colour and the shape is very unusual!..I bought a cute notepad for my daughter and organic top {still had the label on}for my son.
And the lantern.....well I couldn't resist....it is new ,not from the charity shop but was a bargain at £5!!.......
So I got all my goodies for under £10 ........oh.....I am ever so pleased with myself....and thankful of course!!

So no exercise today, I have to rush off now to make nourishing supper for the family....on the menu tonight is...roast shoulder of lamb, rice and green salad.......

Leave you with this thought:

There is no sight on earth more appealing than the sight of a woman making dinner for someone she loves.
~Thomas Wolfe

mummy tea party

2009-12-13T13:27:00.000-08:00

Today I had a mummy tea party.A chance to talk ,relax...enjoy each others company.We are always so busy making sure our chores and families are looked after, it's good to change the routine once in a while especially with good friends.
Lit lots of candles and lanterns,had tea and treats........just relaxed!
Friends are truly a blessing,especially if they want for you what they want for themselves.Friends can have a big impact on your life....it's wise to choose them carefully.

"The example of a good companion and a bad companion is like that of the seller of musk, and the one who blows the blacksmith's bellows. So as for the seller of musk then either he will grant you some, or you buy some from him, or at least you enjoy a pleasant smell from him. As for the one who blows the blacksmith's bellows then either he will burn your clothes or you will get an offensive smell from him."

It was also a chance for me to dress up,wear a little makeup, nice perfume,my favourite jewelry......on the other hand my one friend felt relaxed enough to come in her pyjamas.......we are a funny bunch!!!

This week I would like to get back on track with my exercise,it was impossible for me to exercise since Monday....and I really missed it .{I am pleased to say!!}

So tomorrow morning I will start the day with a warming cup of ginger tea....to get the day off to a kicking start....and a nourishing week ahead.

Thought or two for the day:

"Do not dismiss certain acts of kindness by deeming them to be insignificant, even if (such an act) is to meet your brother with a smiling face (for that is a deed which might weigh heavily in your scale of deeds)."Prophet Muhammed (Blessings and Peace be upon him)

A pleasant face, kind words, and good manners are the most powerful ways to ingratiate you into the hearts of people. And yet even more powerful is gentleness. That is why the Prophet said:

"Anything that has gentleness in it is beautified by it, and anything that is bereft of it is stained."

Take from: Don't be sad

nourishing wife

2009-12-11T02:07:00.000-08:00

This morning has been really hard for my husband,something happened where he was treated very unfairly,I can see he is really upset and feel so bad for him......so I have a moto for today to get us through:

Al-Hasan al-Basri said: “Do not resent the calamities that come and the disasters that occur, for perhaps in something that you dislike will be your salvation, and perhaps in something that you prefer will be your doom.”

going to be a nourishing wife today and offer him lots of support......so we march on and forward

Been having a bit of trouble with my baby sleeping at night.My friend V gave me a great tip....which I am trying to put in place today.Baby usually sleeps around 10:30 in morning and then around 4 in afternoon....so I am trying to keep baby awake ,then let him sleep around 12 until 2...and then bed around 8pm.....not as easy as it sounds!

We are eating & reading books and he is pulling books off my bookshelf.......mmmmmm..so entertaining for him yet annoying for me!!

totally off subject now and onto the humble courgette!! or zucchini you might say!
I eat way too much bread ,it's my vice and its's dragging me down.I'm trying to find foods to accompany my lunch or supper..that are filling and alkaline.
The courgette is a forgotton food but oh so good for you.

So affordable,easy to grow if you have the luxury of a little veg patch, very alkaline, filling but easy on the digestion.There are so many great recipes on the web but if want a quickie ...I just saute sliced courgette in a little butter for 5 mins......and serve drizzled with good quality olive oil,salt and a black pepper..

Baby's gone to sleepy land so I,m off to make my nourishing courgette.....

Thought for the day:

The wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings. Let food be your medicine’s. - Hippocrates

aroma mama

2009-12-10T02:42:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone....went a bit quiet as I had the roofers in again since tuesday.....and so not much nourishing mama happening!!....Could not do my exercise, make nourishing food,go out,do cosy housy things!! Apparently today is the last day
so hopefully I can get back on track......

Been reading the lovely 'THE FRAGRANT MIND'....

I love burning oils in the house,and as I had a few stressful days I was looking for tips to calm me using aromatherapy....

I chose...ROSE and LAVENDER.....
Rose oil is used for these positive attributes: motivates,inner vitality,sense of freedom,forgiving,fulfillment , confidence....

Lavender oil for these positive attributes: balance,clarity,inner peace,gentleness,rest,rejuvenation.....

I bought this aroma steamer from a car boot sale..{I know ,I am CAR BOOT JUNKIE}.
It's really great when you have kids as you can leave it on for hours with no worry of anyone getting burnt and the oils can be released over a long period of time or over night.The smell of the lavender and rose is divine......heavenly.

Went digging in cupboards again and found another PUKKA tea I did not know I had.Husband must of brought it home as a sample and forgot to tell me.....

It's soooooo delicious.......

It contains....green tea, cinnamon,ginger,star anise, cardamon.licorice.....
to warm and enrich.....and of course the packaging is beautiful....

so I am calming and motivating with my rose and lavender oils ...and warming and enriching with my PUKKA CUPPA!!...and I don,t have a leaking roof! yayeee

Thought for the day:

"Stress is not what happens to us.
It's our response TO what happens.
And RESPONSE is something we can choose."
Maureen Killoran

Thankfulness........

2009-12-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

This morning we had great quality family time,for the first time in a long time, we just all sat in the kids room .... talked ,played, watched...we felt so happy and content !!
So grateful to have kids to watch growing up,a husband to share it with.....

An Arab poet said:

"Thankfulness. Remembrance, and patience,
In them are blessings and rewards."

A while back I was given a challenge by my lovely friend,which was to completely clear out the bathroom and give it a good clean....including shelves,windows,toiletries ....everything ,so finally..... I am going to complete the challenge tomorrow...

and on the subject of cleaning,found this video on how to cleanse your face properly.....
I have come to age where I need to start looking after my skin better,splashing with water in the morning does not count....
so my next nourishing mama mission is have a facial routine morning and night...
starting tonight ...going to cleanse my face properly....
I don't have a fancy cleanser,so I am going to use plain yogurt, and follow her advice..

enjoy.....

thought for day:

Doing good to others brings happiness to both the heart and the soul. A good deed provides greater benefits to the benefactor - in terms of blessings and recompense and peace - than it does to the receiver.

taken from: Don't be sad

amazing almonds

2009-12-03T04:10:00.000-08:00

Still at home ,waiting for the roofer to finish,so went raiding my cupboards for things to eat!!
Found some organic almonds! The best way to eat them is to soak overnight until plump and skin peeled. The skin comes off very easily and the almonds are soft and juicy.You only need to eat 10 a day....so no munching whole packets of almonds!!.....tempting I know.

So I've soaked my 10 alomonds ready to eat with breakfast tomorrow .

Why do I want to eat almonds?

Almonds are rich in calcium and protein.
Almond is known as a brain tonic. It is rich in essential fats and serves to enhance memory and intelligence.
They lubricate the skin and the microcirculatory channels and support all the seven tissues, especially reproductive tissue. So very good for pregnant women.
Soaked almonds are a food that increases sexual energy and enhances fertility.
Soaked almonds give your skin lipid support from within

Apparently you can almond butter with fresh herbs and soft cheese,or a almond shake with dates mmmmm..... soaked of course!!..I will post these recipes once I have tried them....

So soaked almonds are 1 more step towards me becoming a nourished mama, the kids will love them too, just a few before school.

Today I am doing my step dvd........
and if the roofers leave soon enough a little bit of retail therapy-----I do love shopping! Even if it's at the local charity shop...you never know what treasure you might find!

Thought for the day...

You have two eyes, two ears, lips, two hands, two legs, a tongue, a heart, peace, safety, and a healthy body. Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both [jinns and men] deny? (Qur'an SS: 13)

kiddies, tea & tone

2009-12-02T06:43:00.000-08:00

Its cold and rainy out there today........ginger tea came to mind........to warm me from the inside....

I simmered the sliced ginger in water {covered} for 10 mins then sipped till I felt that familiar warming energy boost.Ginger is a great winter tea and so good for you!! Great for tired digestions and those who have a bit of flatulance. The libido gets a good kick, which is always a bonus.....and it helps improve circulation and blood flow. In the winter we all need a immune booster and ginger is a good way of preventing the cold and flu virus from attacking.
So my nourishing tip for today is to have a cup of ginger , I am going to include 1 cup a day into my routine.

found this great tip on the web:

To get the best health benefits of ginger tea, wrap fresh ginger root tightly in a towel, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and keep it in the refrigerator (for 3 weeks) or in the freezer (for 3 months).

Today I am looking after my sisters kiddies......so including my little babes.....I have 3 under 4's to run after.......whooo hoooo

I'm off now to do my toning dvd.....with six beady eyes staring at me......''why you doing that aunty?''......he he they are too sweet!!

I am loving doing my exercise, I wonder why I left it so long to start again, I really am getting a great buzz......I hope this becomes a lifetime commitment. Even my kids are joining in with me ,if they are home from school and I am doing my dvd.......great addition to my life!! Sometimes I regret not doing more in the past..or doing things differently....but then I read this.......

Former days are gone and done with, and you benefit nothing by carrying out an autopsy over them, by turning back the wheels of history.

The person who lives in the past is like someone who tries to saw sawdust. Of old, they used to say: "Do not remove the dead from their graves."

Our tragedy is that we are incapable of dealing with the present: neglecting our beautiful castles, we wail over dilapidated buildings. If every man and every jinn were to try jointly to bring back the past, they would most certainly fail. Everything on earth marches forward, preparing for a new season and so should you.

Taken from:Don't be Sad

morrocan inspiration

2009-12-01T03:29:00.000-08:00

I love morrocan design.....I love having a home filled with things I love to look at and creating a tranquil ambience and atmosphere.Here are a few pictures of my morrocan treasures I have collected:

As you can see I have a bit of a lantern passion....I love lighting them all up at night....burning oils....
family all together.....good food.....mmmmmm

I am waiting for the roofers to leave so I can get on with nourishing myself!!...Today is step exercise.......yesterday I did toning......so today is all about burning fat!!
My relaxing oil bath yesterday was great but.......I realized there was one thing I forgot!! and that was to exfoliate!!.....So nourishing thing number 2 for me today is : to give myself a good exfoliate, awaken those winter skin cells...

A little thought for today:

Contentment leads to thankfulness, which is among the highest levels of faith. In truth, it is the reality of faith.Indeed, the thankful person is the most blessed and prosperous of people.

Taken from: 'Don,t be Sad'

one nourished mama

2009-11-30T03:40:00.000-08:00

I was going to have a nourishing moment last night....having a relaxing bath and oil hair treatment...but it just did not happen......so its happening today!!

My lovely friend ...we'll call her V....suggested I do a coconut oil treatment for my tired post baby breastfeeding falling out hair!! so this morning I have massaged my head with coconut oil...which I will wash out after my lovely oil bath....so excited!!

I found this lovely Neals Yard set at a school table top sale for £5 !!! I love destiny!! or Maktoub in arabic!!

so the masterplan for today....{ I know it's at odd times but you know you have to fit things as you can!!}

husband comes home 4:00pm.....and I want to make myself beauties for him...

so....at 2:00pm ...I will do my daily exercise.....then my lovely nourishing bath and massage with oil....a little mascara and newly washed coconut oiled hair...

one nourished mama.....

Thought for the day....

The Prophet's advice to Abudhar:

O Abu Dhar! Take advantage of five things before five things seize you; your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your spare time before your being busy and your life before you death…

uplift and balance

2009-11-29T15:26:00.001-08:00

My blog is all about becoming a nourished mama,uplifting and balancing my body,soul,home,time.......doing the best for myself,my family.......realizing who and what I am.....how to become better....hope you can join me......

I am in need of upliftment and balance,so was really happy to discover this tea by Pukka.......contains licorice,peppermint, fennel,coriander and rose tea.......this has become my daily cuppa!!!

a few facts...

fennel helps with digestion and water retention
licorice balances and nourishes
coriander,peppermint and rose refresh and uplift

my digestion is feeling weary these days.......and this tea really helps.....

I love the colour of the box too....turquoise is my favourite colour....I am sure the reason the box caught my eye in the shop was because of the colour.....