Alhumdulilah, every day in Ramadan we are determined to watch one Islamic movie, video, lecture, etc. Tonight, we just finished watching a historical animated movie that my girls and I believe is a must-watch for every Muslim family. Fortunately, we just watched the full movie available on Google video, and embedded below. My girls insisted that this was the first time they’ve ever watched this, so the only logical solution was hubby and I watched it many years ago, alhumdulilah. My girls loved it dearly as we paused multiple times to field questions and recount classic scenes. They all came to appreciate our deep, rich Islamic history and while I’m writing this post, they are each conducting additional research on Sultan Muhammad, the brave flag bearer, and the hadith which the Prophet sallalahi wa layhi wa salam shared of the coming conquest of Constantinople. Please enjoy the movie!

From the youtube description below, the movie’s synopsis:

Historical cartoon of the conquering of the Christian capital of Constantinople by the Muslim Sultan Muhammad al-Fatih.

For eight centuries, the conquest of Constantinople, now Istanbul, Turkey, was a dream for the Muslim commanders. Ever since the era of the revered companion, Mu`aawiyah Ibn Abu Sufyaan, there had been many attempts to conquer it, but none had succeeded.

Every Muslim commander wanted to be the conqueror praised in the narration in which the Prophet said: “You will conquer Constantinople. Its commander is the best and its army (that will conquer it) is the best.”

Muhammad Al-Fatih was born on 27th Rajab, 835 A.H., 30th March, 1432. He was a committed Muslim who abode by the rulings of Islamic jurisprudence. Because of the way he was brought up, he was a pious man.

Muhammad Al-Faatih managed to realize his dreams through hard, continuous work, and well-organized planning. For example, before besieging Constantinople, he prepared for the war by making cannons, preparing his fleet, and making use of all the factors that might render him victorious.

Through high ambition, determination, and the effort to achieve his goals, he managed to materialize his dream, make his hope an existing reality which made him one of the great Muslim heroes and conquerors.

Muhammad Al-Fatih attained this victory when he was twenty three years old. This indicated his early military genius. He also deserved the glad tidings of the Prophet who foretold that a good person would conquer that city.
If you want to watch 8 separated parts via youtube, you may start at the first one here:

We’d love to hear your feedback about this momentous conquest in Islamic history.

Sultan Muhammad Al-Fatih – Islamic Animated Historical Movie is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Okay, I have 5 $2 coupons & Recipe books to give away asap as well. They expire June 30th, so the first 5 who comment below with full name and mailing address will get these sent to you. 1 coupon & recipe book per household.

Interestingly, the one and only who doesn’t eat any kind of yogurt actually really enjoys these dips. We’ve tried Cucumber Dill Feta & Garden Herb Ranch. The rest of us all think it’s fair-to-good. It’s an acquired test. But, if you’re up for giving it a try, please comment below!

Otria Greek Yougurt Veggie Dips – 5 $2 coupons & Recipe Book for free is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Are you a Lightening McQueen Fan? Are you gearing up to check out CARS 2? Well, here’s a pre-launch giveaway sure to get you and your kids excited about! Kid Bloggers Club will also host a CARS 2 Giveaway tonight, inshaAllah, God willing, and they’ll be spending the entire week sharing some great CARS 2 exclusive trailers, family activities, and their excitement as we prepared to attend a pre-screening next week, inshaAllah.

CARS 2 Kids Giveaway Pack

Prize pack includes:

- CARS 2 t-shirt in youth sizes of S, M, L, XL

- CARS 2 set of 3 bumper tickets

- CARS 2 temporary tattoo sheet (2 per winner)

- CARS 2 puzzle

Enter to win a CARS 2 Kids Giveaway Pack

Deadline date: Thursday, June 34, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time. (The night before it debuts in a theater near you!)

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must visit the official CARS 2 website comment below telling us what episode you can’t wait to see and share what size T-shirt you’d like to win.

• To be eligible to win you must be a U.S. and Canadian resident, and 18 years of age or older.

For Additional Entries

For additional entries, you may chose to complete any one, or all of the below actions. You must write a separate comment for each additional entry you complete below. (A winner is chosen by the number of comments, not the number of actions taken.)

• Follow American Muslim Mom on Twitter @PonnSabra
• Become an American Muslim Mom Facebook Fan.
• Follow Kid Bloggers Club on Twitter @KidBloggersClub
• Become a Kid Bloggers Club Facebook Fan
• Subscribe to our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed. To sign up with your RSS feed reader, click here; or click here to subscribe by email.
• Subscribe to our iTunes RSS feed with one-click subscription here.
• Subscribe to the American Muslim Mom YouTube Channel.
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Google Connect.
• “Like” this page on Facebook with the “Like” button below.
• Share this page on Facebook with the “Share” button below adding a personal note. Leave a comment below with the timestamped url.
• Join the Muslim Mom Media Network. While it’s not exclusive to Muslim Moms, we will only be promoting Muslim and halal-specific products and services.
• Tweet about this contest with @ponnsabra Tweet this message, but don’t forget to comment below with the new tweet link
• Add our brand new button on your site, code available on the right sidebar.
• List on our your blogroll with the following text link:

<a href=”http://americanmuslimmom.com” title=”American Muslim Mom Blog” target=”_blank”>American Muslim Mom Blog</a>

• Bookmark American Muslim Mom on your browser or your favorite bookmarking site, suchas reddit, delicious, or google bookmarks. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

• Share this post with your favorite social networking site, such as yahoo buzz, stumbleupon, or kirsty. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below as well. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

SAMPLE TWEET. ENTER UP TO TWICE DAILY.

RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Win CARS 2 #Kids Pack – T-shirt, Puzzle, Bumper Stickers & Temp. Tattoos! http://ow.ly/5jGeG Pls RT

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: We do not receive products nor compensation for this contest. We will, inshaAllah, attend a pre-screening organized by Disney’s media department. However, we were not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

CARS 2 Kids Giveaway Pack – T-shirt, Bumper Stickers, Temporary Tattoos & Puzzle is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Undoubtedly, I love my customized Facebook Fan page with an interactive Welcome Page and matching banner designed by Ummah Design- the incredible designers and developers of the American Muslim Mom brand. Rather than detail why I think their work is so great, please just click on either of the images here to see the Page in action. And, while you’re there, if you Like what you see, kindly “Like” it and become our fan. After all, it’ll enter you an opportunity to win a Customized Welcome Page and Banner!

And, added plus about Ummah Designs is that their customer service and support is phenomenal. I’ve been working with them since December, and I’ve hired them to additional projects, alhumdulilah, Praise be to God.

Now, with a goal to launch 5 more sites in the next 7-weeks, I learned that dependability, professional work ethics, and technical skills and abilities are  key factors in hiring designers and developers.

As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for!”

I am not a mommy blogger blogging for fun–this is my profession that happens to be a lot of fun! I pride myself that this is an investment in my online business; and believe every online business deserves a great Facebook Fan Welcome Page and Banner.

Purchase a Customized Facebook Fan Welcome Page & Banner Today

Visit Ummah Design, and request a quote today!

Enter to win a  Customized Facebook Fan Welcome Page & Banner ($157 Value*)

*USD conversion today 6/10/2011

Winner will receive:

• Customized Facebook Fan Welcome Page (with Twitter, blog and website links on it, and accompanying content) (USD $100 value). Does not include embedded video or optin subscription box script. (Regular price: $75-$150)
• Customized Facebook Banner (Today’s US Conversion $57)

Deadline date: Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Daylight Savings Time.

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must visit the Ummah Design site and check out their portfolio “Our Work”, and comment below what you like about their designs and WHY you want need a customized Facebook Fan Welcome Page & Banner.

• To be eligible to win you must be a U.S. resident, and 18 years of age or older worldwide.

For Additional Entries

For additional entries, you may chose to complete any one, or all of the below actions. You must write a separate comment for each additional entry you complete below. (A winner is chosen by the number of comments, not the number of actions taken.)

• Follow Ummah Designs on Twitter @UmmahDesign
  
• Become an Ummah Design Facebook Fan
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Twitter @PonnSabra
• Become an American Muslim Mom Facebook Fan.
• Subscribe to our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed. To sign up with your RSS feed reader, click here; or click here to subscribe by email.
• Subscribe to our iTunes RSS feed with one-click subscription here.
• Subscribe to the American Muslim Mom YouTube Channel.
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Google Connect.
• “Like” this page on Facebook with the “Like” button below.
• Share this page on Facebook with the “Share” button below adding a personal note. Leave a comment below with the timestamped url.
• Tweet about this contest with @ponnsabra Tweet this message, but don’t forget to comment below with the new tweet link

RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Customized #Facebook Fan Welcome Page & Banner ($158 value) by @UmmahDesign #design

• Add our brand new button on your site, code available on the right sidebar.
• List on our your blogroll with the following text link:

<a href=”http://americanmuslimmom.com” title=”American Muslim Mom Blog” target=”_blank”>American Muslim Mom Blog</a>

• Bookmark American Muslim Mom on your browser or your favorite bookmarking site, suchas reddit, delicious, or google bookmarks. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

• Share this post with your favorite social networking site, such as yahoo buzz, stumbleupon, or kirsty. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below as well. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: We were not compensated for this post. Ummah Design and Ponn Sabra have multiple design and development projects with various compensation agreements. We not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

Facebook Fan Welcome Page and Banner Designed by Ummah Design – Review & Giveaway is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Crosstown Media, the Emmy-winning film and television production company, is developing a brand new documentary TV series aimed at exploring and celebrating the lives and faith of Muslim families living in Middle America.

Through profiling the everyday lives of one or two Muslim families, their goal is to accurately document what life is truly like for a Muslim family living in Middle America – both the happiness and the hardships.

They are looking for Muslim families – preferably multigenerational – interested in sharing their lives, culture, and faith with us.

Details

After an hour long call with the Product and Development Assistant, I tried to find out as much details as possible. After all requests like this has been plentiful over the past 3 years and I know the issues, concerns many readers have over the past.

In no particular order:

• Tentative title, “Muslim in the Middle” if they are fortunate enough to find an ideal Muslim family living in the Midwest & Heartland.
• Documentary style. Chronicle “A Day in the Life of American Muslim Family” on network television.

• Goal is to have a multi-episode series stretched out 6 or 12-13 week sequence.
  

• They hope to capture an “All-American” family who happen to be Muslim, in their every-day life whether they own their own business, at work, getting married, etc.
• They’d like to portray average family, who they are, what they do. Aspects of life that are unique and others that are “typical”.
• Typically filming will take place over 3-6 months.want hear as many families as possible to build relationships.
• They will respect our beliefs and customs.
• They would need to film inside in the home throughout their days,  work, etc. yet will Not intrude.
• Permission: Legal team. Releases for anyone on camera. Location & guest releases. Adjust language to cater specific needs & flexibility.

Some Benefits for the casting family according to Crosstown Media:

• Chance to show the world who they are and what they do.
• Being a Muslim is a big part of ones’ lives, so this is an opportunity to showcase this pride.
• Opportunity to educate others about Islam through the simplicity of living life as a Muslim (My words).

These are my own determination of Phases. But, Phases 1 – 3 make up the entire Development and Casting Phase, which Crosstown is presently in.

Phase 1. Email submissions:

• Despite their hopes for multigenerational, Middle-America Muslim family that are open to receive as many submissions as possible. They have no preference to ethnic groups, whether native Muslim or those who embraced it, multiple-religions in extended family or solely Muslim family. Any background. Native born American or Immigrant American. They simply want to see how many Muslim American families are interested in participating at this stage.

Phase 2. Detailed phone conversations:

• Crosstown with interview interested families over the phone, which may take weeks or months.

Phase 3. Introduction videos as part of screening.

• May take several months.

Phased 4. Production Phase.

How to Apply

Please email your name, age, location, a brief description of your story and your family, and a family photo to: casting@crosstown.tv

No word count.

Ideal deadline: May 31, 2011

Questions? Concerns?

Please share detailed comments below. Your questions and concerns will be addressed more expeditiously if you comment below rather than emailing me directly, as Crosstown Media will be moderating this post as well.

American Muslim Family Casting Notice – Crosstown Media is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

We are so happy to share with you the popular Fulla doll with Hijab and Abaya. Now, hubby and I were against buying anymore Muslim alternatives to Barbie here in the States and overseas due to the poor quality of the dolls, clothes and hence wasting our money. Despite the fact that our girls enjoyed and learned from Fulla videos overseas, we never gave into buying them for our girls. However, when Muslim Toys and Dolls offered each of our girls a Fulla with custom-made abayas and other accessories (which we’ll keep for another post), I admit that I am hooked and here’s why:

*Fulla is made with excellent craftsmanship and quality similar to Barbies.

* Fulla wears a full bodysuit.

* Fulla has a young girls’ body.

* Fulla has darker skin and hair. Although, I’d prefer her without the fake highlights. She has friends with different hair color.

* Fulla has custom-made modest yet fashionable clothing.

* Fulla is well-priced.

We look forward to sharing future posts about awesome clothing choices and accessories made for the Muslim girl in mind. And, yes–inshaAllah, God willing I’ll be buying myself my own. But, with the wide selection Muslim Toys and Dolls has, I’m taking my time to pick my ideal Fulla doll. How about you?

Purchase a Fulla doll with Hijab and Abaya Today

Search and find your ideal Fulla Doll you like the best.

Enter to win a Fulla doll with Hijab and Abaya ($27.99)

Deadline date: Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must visit the  Muslim Toys and Dolls website comment below telling us which Fulla doll with Hijab and Abaya (retail $27.99) you like the best.

• To be eligible to win you must be a U.S. resident, and 18 years of age or older.

For Additional Entries

For additional entries, you may chose to complete any one, or all of the below actions. You must write a separate comment for each additional entry you complete below. (A winner is chosen by the number of comments, not the number of actions taken.)

• Follower Muslim Toys and Dolls on Twitter @dharbi123
  
• Subscribe to Muslim Toys and Dolls mailing list.
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Twitter @PonnSabra
• Become an American Muslim Mom Facebook Fan.
• Subscribe to our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed. To sign up with your RSS feed reader, click here; or click here to subscribe by email.
• Subscribe to our iTunes RSS feed with one-click subscription here.
• Subscribe to the American Muslim Mom YouTube Channel.
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Google Connect.
• “Like” this page on Facebook with the “Like” button below.
• Share this page on Facebook with the “Share” button below adding a personal note. Leave a comment below with the timestamped url.
• Join the Muslim Mom Media Network. While it’s not exclusive to Muslim Moms, we will only be promoting Muslim and halal-specific products and services.
• Tweet about this contest with @ponnsabra Tweet this message, but don’t forget to comment below with the new tweet link
• Add our brand new button on your site, code available on the right sidebar.
• List on our your blogroll with the following text link:

<a href=”http://americanmuslimmom.com” title=”American Muslim Mom Blog” target=”_blank”>American Muslim Mom Blog</a>

• Bookmark American Muslim Mom on your browser or your favorite bookmarking site, suchas reddit, delicious, or google bookmarks. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

• Share this post with your favorite social networking site, such as yahoo buzz, stumbleupon, or kirsty. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below as well. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

SAMPLE TWEET. ENTER UP TO TWICE DAILY.

RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Win @dharbi123 #Muslim Toys and #Dolls. Fulla Doll with Hijab and Abaya (Value $27.99) http://ow.ly/4Ykv8

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: We received review products free of charge. We not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

Muslim Toys and Dolls – Fulla Review and Giveaway is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Mickey is going to QVC again, and in such late notice, she asked a few of us to help her out with a multi-blog giveaway. Now, you’d think my raving review was what made me jump at helping out…no, it was her closing line “…OLIVE U! Are you in?”  I laughed so hard as Mickey’s corny humor shared throughout her cookbook and I can just imagine our kids laughing hysterically at the 2 of us baking together, forcing them to eat sweets, while they’d all rather run the olive oil orchards, hang on branches and just joke amongst themselves how much they love our wacky-mommy ways! And, this is all without Mickey or I even knowing one another kids…its simply from our writing, our social networking, and online relationship-building.

Anyways, this is a big honor for Micki (I’m SO proud), because typically guest have weeks to months to prepare for their live show, but she was gifted with 6-days. So, she’s celebrating with this multi-blog giveaway–pretty sweet, eh!?

So, here’s the deal…if you missed out and didn’t win the last Olive Oil Dessert Cookbook and want to know more about this fab EVOO she’s raving about, here are the details:

By the way, still partial to olives grown in Gaza, freshly pressed into the best  EVOO, and while I can’t enter…given all the yummy desserts this cookbook gifted my family, I know I must get my hands on this stuff.

Oh, we’ve made the Slow Banana cake with icing (delectible!), Silky strawberry cheesecake (to fight over!) and honey cakes, which we renamed to Honey & Sesame treats (yummy!)

Watch Mickey on QVC

To watch QVC online and live, go to www.qvc.com and click on the “watch live” tab to the left of the page. To view the segment after it airs, they can go to www.qvc.com and type Olive Oil Desserts into the search bar, click on the “video” tab just above the cookbook cover.

Contest Duration

Beginning May 18^th 8:00 AM EDT.

Ending May 25^th 11:59 PM.

Prizes:

Olive Oil Desserts cookbook + EVOO sent to 3 winners from participating blogs.

About the EVOO…The California Olive Ranch is my favorite for baking desserts. COR’s EVOO is grown, harvested, pressed, and bottled in California. I actually went to their orchards last fall and watched them harvest some of the EVOO your readers can win. In my opinion, this liquid gold is as fresh and good as it gets! Learn more at their website, or at Olive Oil Desserts.

How to Enter

US addresses only. No PO Boxes.

Complete any or all of the below entries and comment below. Actions are not counted, comments are.

1.     Tweet this giveaway. Use the tweet button above!

2.     Follow Micki on twitter https://twitter.com/oliveoilchic.

3.     Follow COR on twitter  http://twitter.com/@CA_EVOO

4.     Blog about this giveaway and link back to this blogpost.

5.     Go to www.oliveoildesserts.com and comment below about something you learned from that website.

6.     Go to www.californiaoliveranch.com and comment below about EVOO.

7.     Leave a comment on American Muslim Mom Facebook page stating that you’re entering this contest.

8.     Like COR’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/californiaoliveranch

9.     Like Olive Oil Desserts Facebook page www.facebook.com/oliveoildesserts

10. For each comment about Micki’s appearance on this blog, California Olive Ranch’s, or Olive Oil Desserts FB page. (1 comment per page).

How winners will be determined

This is a multi-blog giveway. The winner and blog owner will be announced on all participating blogs. All entries will need to be sent to Micki and a random drawing of all entries will determine the winning names. Three cookbook/EVOO sets will be drop shipped to the 3 winner’s addresses. This contest will end on Sunday 05/25/11 at 11:59 pm est.  only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. Once the winner is contacted, they must confirm they wish to receive the prize within five days of the winner notification email.

“Going to QVC” Olive Oil Desserts Cookbook & California Olive Ranch EVOO Giveaway is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

At Sparkle Farms, they promote letting girls play: Run · Skip · Jump · Climb · Swing–and we’re adding “Dance, Dance, Dance!” We’re still settling into our blessed new home, subhanallah, Glory be to God, that we’re just psyched to be stationary for a few months. So, we’re back to our routine of dressing up decking ourselves out for Baba’s return from a long day of work. Anyways, with open space without furniture in place the girls have been dancing up a storm–as you can see by these wildly fun pictures we took last night. Thankfully, Sparkle Farms bloomers played a signature role in our crazy celebrations! So, if you have incredibly active girls who love dresses and in need of some cute, comfortable cover ups–You definitely Need Sparkle Farms bloomers.

My girls are so much like me, mashaAllah, God has willed. My family has pictures of me climbing trees and flipping around the yard in a dress, but Mommy always made me wear chackies, as I didn’t like jeans (and still don’t). So, whether we’re playing inside and out, my girls love Sparkle Farms bloomers! [It's just raining SO much here in Indiana!]

Reasons Sparkle Farms Bloomers Rock

• - Comfortable, high-quality cotton,
• - Fun, girly colors: pink, purple, and of course–white,
• - They’re available here in the States! We’ve always purchased our bloomers overseas, and they’re either cheaply made, tight elastic waists or borders on their thighs,
• - Affordable,
• - Run smaller in size, so they’ll last. We got Size 6 for our soon-to-be 8 year old, and she has plenty of room to grow into them. However, they definitely did not fit our 9 or 10 year olds (size  10-12 and 14-16).
• - The bloomers are packaged SO awesomely! The bag is sparklin’ and versatile.
• - The owner of Sparkle Farms, aka Chief Sparkle, is personable and accommodating. She’s aware of the need for bigger sizes. Our only request is to make them Capri-length (mid-calf) for the bigger sizes.

Purchase Sparkle Farms bloomers Today

Why wait!? Buy your Sparkle Farm bloomers today!

Enter to win Sparkle Farms Bloomers ($25.00)

Deadline date: Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must visit the Sparkle Farms website comment below telling us what size and what activity your Prancing Princess causing her to need Sparkle Farms bloomers.

• To be eligible to win you must be a U.S. resident, and 18 years of age or older.

For Additional Entries

For additional entries, you may chose to complete any one, or all of the below actions. You must write a separate comment for each additional entry you complete below. (A winner is chosen by the number of comments, not the number of actions taken.)

• Follower Sparkle Farms on Twitter @mysparklefarms
• Become a Sparkle Farms Facebook Fan
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Twitter @PonnSabra
• Become an American Muslim Mom Facebook Fan.
• Subscribe to our RSS feed preferably through the email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed. To sign up with your RSS feed reader, click here; or click here to subscribe by email.
• Subscribe to our iTunes RSS feed with one-click subscription here.
• Subscribe to the American Muslim Mom YouTube Channel.
• Follow American Muslim Mom on Google Connect.
• “Like” this page on Facebook with the “Like” button below.
• Share this page on Facebook with the “Share” button below adding a personal note. Leave a comment below with the timestamped url.
• Join the Muslim Mom Media Network. While it’s not exclusive to Muslim Moms, we will only be promoting Muslim and halal-specific products and services.
• Tweet about this contest with @ponnsabra Tweet this message, but don’t forget to comment below with the new tweet link
• Add our brand new button on your site, code available on the right sidebar.
• List on our your blogroll with the following text link:

<a href=”http://americanmuslimmom.com” title=”American Muslim Mom Blog” target=”_blank”>American Muslim Mom Blog</a>

• Bookmark American Muslim Mom on your browser or your favorite bookmarking site, suchas reddit, delicious, or google bookmarks. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

• Share this post with your favorite social networking site, such as yahoo buzz, stumbleupon, or kirsty. You can use one of the “Sharing is Caring” buttons below as well. [For each action, make separate comments below.]

SAMPLE TWEET. ENTER UP TO TWICE DAILY.

RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Win @mySparkleFarms Bloomers for Your Dancing Princess! Size 3-7. (Value. $25) #girls #contest http://ow.ly/4JT3b

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: We received review products free of charge via Tomoson.com. We not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas a Minneapolis SEO and Web Design firm. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

Sparkle Farms Bloomers Review and Giveaway is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Recently, Role Mommy hosted the “Is Your Kid A Character Contest” on behalf of the nationally syndicated comic strip, “Oh, Brother!” My girls and I didn’t know about “Oh, Brother!” until this contest ran, and while we’re a house of girls, we relate to just about every comic strip we read so far. We didn’t apply for this contest, because we don’t use animation of ourselves, yet we thought it was a fun idea and looked forward to who the winner would be and how he/she would be depicted as a character in the comic strip itself.

“My kid is a character because she can always turn a bad situation into a good one. Her random funniness is what gets me through my day. Last week we were talking and she said “Mom I’m never getting married,” and I asked her why and she said “Because boys like to take your paycheck and play video games all day and I don’t have time for it, Mom!’”

Alhumdulilah, Praise be to God, in Islam–a woman never needs to worry about boys taking our paychecks, because every penny earned, inherited, or invested in by a woman is solely hers and hers alone–not even her children have rights to that money. And, as for playing video games all day–that cannot happen in a Muslim home (though it does) because it Muslims must do everything in moderation, and doing any one thing all day is prohibited–haram.

Chiara’s official debut as an “Oh, Brother!” comic strip character appeared this week online at www.ohbrothercomics.com and in newspapers nationwide. Take a look…

Get to know Chiara with our Fave Five Questions for Kids…

RM: What do you want to be when you grow up?
Chiara: A pediatrician.

RM: What is your favorite thing to do with your family?
Chiara: Going to the movies.

RM: What is your favorite food?
Chiara: Pepperoni pizza.

RM: What is your favorite thing to do with your friends?
Chiara: Have sleepovers.

RM: How does it feel to be turned into a comic strip character?
Chiara: It’s fun. I told my class and I’m excited!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Is Your Kid A Character Contest! You can check out all our runners up here and thanks to our judges for casting their votes! Make sure you visit the Oh Brother! website for fun games and the chance to upload your own artwork. Plus, next time you’re reading your local newspaper, hand over the comics to your kids and make sure they check out Oh, Brother! online at www.ohbrothercomics.com or www.dailyink.com.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the Role Mommy Writer’s Network.

“Oh Brother!” Comic Strip Winner: 5 Questions for Chiara is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Auntie J. shared her detailed review of every item in this awesome Birth-To-Toddler Gift Package (a term Auntie J. just came up with) to celebrate the brand new release of What to Expect The Second Year by Heidi Murkoff. As proud new Partners, we will be hosting regular reviews and giveaways for each of the What To Expect books, and highlight various aspects of their incredibly helpful parenting site throughout the year, inshaAllah, God willing. This is such exciting news–because, as we pack for our move, I know snuggled in our book boxes I still have my 12-year old What to Expect, Pregnancy copy safely tucked, just for memory-sack. So, enjoy Auntie J’s review:

I just opened the package and it included a beautiful variety of gifts that a baby will use ranging from birth to 18months. There are top of the line the Original SwaddleMe infant wrap, Nuk pacifiers, Explora Training cups, a Playtex Training cup with a straw, baby bubble bath, and Pediped shoes.

The Original SwaddleMe infant wrap is a perfect gift for new parents trying to get into the swing of things. This product gives a newborn the support and comfort it needs when first entering the world inside the comfort of a blanket. I never was able to swaddle our children with a blanket, my husband mastered this technique, but I always struggled. This blanket takes the guess work out and the comfort in a flash.

My daughter has used the Nuk brand Pacifiers when she was smaller and loved them, my family trust the quality of this brand so much that we have gifted their product several times to our friends having a baby.

I just gave my 14 month old daughter the Explora Training cup and I found that she enjoyed the softness of the silicone top, but it leaked all over my floor. This product is great for younger children but as they progress in roughness it may not be suitable.

The Playtex Training cup to a product that we use daily in our house. They are the perfect cup for when you are on the go and you don’t want to worry about a spill. It keep the juice in the cup and off the floor and our kids cloths. It is easy to grip and clean, which are two very important components in our house.

Johnson and Johnson Baby Bubble Bath and Wash has a great fragrance that doesn’t over power the natural sweet sense that our baby already has. It makes bath time fun for a 14 month old. Washing my daughters hair is less of a challenge when using BUBBLES. She didn’t scream and cry as she usually does because this time washing her hair was fun. This product made bath time less stressful.

Pediped shoes are top of the line quality. They have a soft sol allowing the baby to feel the ground without hurting her feet. My daughter looks stylish in her Baby Jane while getting the support she needs while chasing after her big brother.

WHAT TO EXPECT, THE SECOND YEAR GIFT BOX

What to Expect the Second Year book by Heidi Murkoff, $24.95
What to Expect, Stainless Steel Water Bottle, premium item/not available at retail
Tommee Tippee Explora Cup, 9m+ – $8.99
PediPed Originals 12-18 mos. – $32.00
Johnson’s Baby Bubble Bath & Wash 15 oz – $4.29
Summer Infant Swaddle Me 7-14 lbs – $12
Totsy coupon – $15 credit
NUK Active Cup: $6.79
NUK TrendLine pacifier sz2, 2pk: $4.79
Hallmark Recordable Storybooks – $29.99
Playtex Lil Gripper Spout Cup – $15.00

What to Expect, The Second Available For Sale Now!

Can’t wait!? Buy your copy here today!

Enter to win What to Expect, The Second Year Gift Box ($153.80+)

Deadline date: Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must visit the What to Expect Second Year website comment below telling us your favorite resource, section, part of their designated toddler pages are for you and your little tot.

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RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Win @What_To_Expect The Second Year Gift Box (Value. $153.80+) #Baby #Toddler http://ow.ly/4AmBM

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: What to Expect provided review products and offered contest giveaway prizes. We not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

What to Expect, The Second Year Gift Box Review and Giveaway is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

What’s the fascination of mall escalators anyways!? For whatever reasons, there’s no getting around “mama, Mama–I want to stand with you on the escalator!” “No me!” “No it’s my turn”. And, the moment I step on there’s always a frustrated strangler puppy dog eyes and pouts, in which I have to change the whole mood and give my stern commands and face of “Get On!” either because there’s a line patiently waiting for this obviously disappointed one or two chicks holding them up…or I’m all the way to the next floor and they’re still looking like “come on down Mama, I’m not going up without you by your side”. You can rest assured I’ve never succumbed to the latter request, and basically have to plead politely and jokingly as in teh first scenario typically a friendly person will be, ‘come on, just step on like this’. And, the annoying thing about this WHOLE ordeal is my girls have never been scared to get on–they’re just competitive and feel it’s SO cool to ride alongside Mama–as if I give them this incredibly unique, unbelievable experience of literally 20-odd-seconds of their life with them!

Am I to blame?

Like what!? Never a mall visit passes without this predictable experience, and for some odd reason, I cannot seem to remember…except when I’m riding one-step ahead of them. Am I to blame!? Did I make the younger years of “Hold my hand, let’s jump on the frist step together SO enjoyable that they crave that childish fun moment!?”

“Am I too rushed, too preoccupied, too dare-I-say-old to think they are too old just to take this simple-lazy-ride-up-alone and not need my hand-holding!?”

“Am I being TOO literal here!?” And, it’s nothing to do with age, it’s about the fun memories these innocently vibrant girls want me to re-live and remember…even for the short 2-odd-seconds?

A new solution leads to new problems

A quick thank you for the Top 5 Blogs that referred us traffic:
So, when I try to defeat this issue since I can’t have 3 bodies on “both” sides of me on this sometimes one-person-width escalator; that I try to go for the 3-sided-window elevator…Bang! A whole ‘nother set of issues arise.

“No, you just hit the ‘down’ button!” “No you hit a button already!” “You hit 2-buttons in a row!”…Mom!

And, I watch the girls eyes and I’m ready to sigh-Alhumdulilah, Praise be to God. “Mama, you know we just like to annoy you, right!?” “Yay! Well, you’re doing a pretty great job at that!…How about going straight home?” Hah, I win again…”No…No…I’m sorry” “No, I’m sorry Mama.” “X you can press the next button” “No, I’m Okay, you can press it.”

Ode the rhythms and rhymes of every mall visit.

Still seeking Mama’s opinions

The hysterical thing of this all, again–this occurs in every mall visit, without fail. Yet, it was only until I had 3 girls that I became of “woman you LOVES to shop!” I have 3 great critics and fashionistas. 3 incredible girl-friends to play around, chat, hug, walk arm in arm. 3 fun –there’s always so great homeschool lessons to our shopping journeys. And, well–to me; I really enjoy how they actually still aim to please me and seek my opinions ‘Mama, do you like this!?” “Do you like this?” as I allow them to roam and “pick their own styles”.

Each of us have our own personalities, styles, and temperaments when trying to look just what we want–and we work together as a team of individuals. We’re out to make sure we remain unique, yet modest. We aim for the best bargain for our dollar with the highest quality materials and long-standing classic flair. We’re conservative but fashionable. We’re trendy yet simple. All these emotions and personalities come out of our rather animated shopping sprees and all this fun, I guess has to be broken up to bring out the best or worse of them in their individual fascination be it sincere or exaggerated on the escalator without fail.

I know a time will come when they won’t want my opinion…and they all assure me, that will never happen…”Mama, you’re the best shopper ever! And, you have the best clothes ever! And, you find the best deals ever!”  MashaAllah, God has willed…so, inshaAllah, God willing, they will always feel this way.

[SIDENOTE (UPDATED): As for being consumers--if you remain educated, frugal, and wise when shopping for necessities in life--not over indulging too...it is totally acceptable and NOT prohibited in Islam. To be fashionable is not prohibited. Having never seen me dressed, it's inappropriately to judge me. If you prefer that I use "stylish" as I wear simple, elegant, classic, tasteful and refined clothes--so be it. One can wear full black from head to toe, only share one's face and hands (no feet) be modest, and not revealing; hence Islamically appropriate.]

I guess, alhumdulilah, as all the joy and frustration expressed in our actions and words is quite obvious–it’s no doubt we also never leave the mall without one, two…many commenters will comment on “man, you girls are really having fun today, aren’t you?” “Do you always have this much fun shopping?” “We don’t see families having this much fun shopping at the mall at all…are you always like this?”

Meaningful, fun, educational experiences at the mall

One of the biggests pros to only going to the mall every 3-4-6 months is that it makes our visits that much more meaningful and fun–Hah! I just answered a few of my questions…no wonder it’s a race to ride with Mama on the escalator!

See the beauty of blogging is that one can start a post thinking of something, without knowing where you’re going to end…and my ending is “Savor every fun minute you have together with your kids. Don’t rush of question their every attempt to stay carefree, young, innocent and fun”. Play along and enjoy any regular errand. I know TOO many people who purposefully go to the mall without their kids because of the annoyance in time, energy and effort put into keeping them focused a that task at hand. “But, my kids want to buy everything…I spend SO much more money when my kids are with me…it takes SO long with my kids”.

I actually went to the mall once by myself–and it wasn’t fun at all…don’t strive just to get regular errands done, involve these opportunities so kids enjoy and look forward to doing their motherly chores happily…and hey, maybe then they too will be frugal-minded not-easily-swayed-by-blatant-dramatized-advertising-drawing kids to “mommy…mommy…mommy”.

Take kids to the mall or leave them at home?

So, subhanallah, Glory be to God, I’m happy my girls are fighting to be by my side on an escalator as a highlight to their mall shopping trip, rather than the “hottest” “newest” “best” “most expensive” new product or clothing item Mama or Baba just bought for them.

By the way–terribly ill yesterday and I bearer of bad health news, alhumdulilah, Praise be to God, after great reflection, no need to stress, be angry or question–I choice to stop everything and take the whole family to the mall. Daddy/Papa enjoyed our fun adventure and we always make meaningful memories–and today was no exception, subhanallah. So, I feel bless this Blessed Friday, Jummah Mubarak! May you enjoy your day of rest with your family.

So, what are your kids mall fascinations? What are your mall shopping woes? Do you take the kids shopping with you or leave them at home? And, please share why!

photocredit: markhillary

Why are kids so fascinated by mall escalators? is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Note: No, we do NOT celebrate Earth Day. Every day is “Earth Day” in this proud natural, green-is-for-Islam, homeschooling Muslim mobile home, garden…home is where ever we are as long as our intentions and actions are with Allah, subhanallahu wa T’ala/May He be Glorified.

My girls have been telling me all about new commercials about AFRICAN CATS–which is the third release under our Disneynature label after OCEANS last year and EARTH in 2009. They are particularly excited because, as you may remember, we just returned from Africa (albeit Northern African) a few months ago. Now we watch a TON of nature documentaries, but they are particularly drawn to the obvious fact that this documentary is made for kids. And through these commercials, they learned how African cat families living in the Savanna depends heavily on their own family as the storyline to this film. They also like the fact that this film is only about wild cats, rather than multiple kinds of animals. Last, they just added that they really appreciate that Disney put out Disneynature series in which is focused completely on educational nature films…MashaAllah, God has willed, I’m very proud for their commentary, because I have yet to watch a commercial; so let’s watch the trailer below together, shall we?

Check out the trailer below

Educational Materials Available for Free Download

• • Download Educators’ Guide
  • Download Activity Guide
  • Download Activity Sheet

Learn more and connect with Disneynature online

• Website and Mobile Site
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Here is a brief synopsis:

Leaping into theaters on Earth Day, 2011, “African Cats” features the real-life love, humor and determination of the kings of the African savanna: Mara, an endearing lion cub who strives to grow up with her mother’s strength, spirit and wisdom; Sita, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a rival lion.

Genre: True Life Adventure

Rating: G

Do you want to watch “African Cats”? Please share

The truth is, and my entire family knows this, I do not like cats–stems from my allergies, and well…no need to get into it. But, before Simba and Raja, other Disney animation movies made lions so lovable, and people started actually started taking wild cats as pets…I’ve always wanted to walk near and pet one of these furious, wild African cats. Well, I think I’m fine just getting close enough to this film, and inshaAllah, to lower Africa so we can one day see them live in their own lands. (Yes, we’ve seen them in multiple different zoos and saharis, but that’s definitely not the wild).

African Cats coming to theatres everywhere on April 22nd is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Subhanallah, Glory be to God, when I thought I ended the “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series ideally with our virtual fundraiser for the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro, and press copy DVD giveaway contest, it just happens to be Showtime Sunday. So, I’ve already been asked twice when the next showings are scheduled (there were 3 last night, 8pm, 11pm and 2am–which I’m still waiting to see if any new records were broken–its debut you night it was the highest rated CNN In America documentary in 2-years), unfortunately the showtime schedule is presently blank. So, I’m just going to share the youtube video below for your watching pleasure, inshaAllah. If you sit through the whole captivating show, please read past posts and keep the dialogue alive. Most importunately, CNN would like to know what you think should be the next Muslim In America documentary, so share your suggestions on the giveaway post here.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRlqz3e9OrA

Follow the full “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series:

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Part 11. Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door on youtube.

Keep the dialogue opened on twitter. Please use hashtag #musliminamerica

Please share your thoughtful and kind comments below.

Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door on youtube is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

CNN cannot sell DVDs of this documentary due to their affiliate agreements with those who shared their news coverage to make this project possible. Therefore, there is no price associated with this giveaway. However, we are aware there is a great demand, since this was the highest-rated documentary for CNN over the past 2 years. Many Congratulations goes to the In America Unit Executive Producer Geraldine Moriba, anchor Soledad O’Briend, “Unwelcome” producer Jason Samuals, and their incredible team!

Fortunately, CNN provided two additional press copies to make available as contest giveaway prizes.

Please Consider Making a Donation

If you’re interested enough to try to win one of these DVDs, then you’ve obviously heard good things. So, please make a financial contribution to support the construction project of Islamic Center of Murfreesboro, TN.

Enter to win one of two “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” CNN Press Copy DVDs. (Value ?)

Deadline date: Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time.

Contest Rules

• You must adhere to all the rules as stated. Shall a winner be chosen who did not complete these rules, he/she will not be eligible to win.

You must comment below telling us what you think should be the follow-up to this documentary.

• To be eligible to win you must be a U.S. resident, and 18 years of age or older.

For Additional Entries

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SAMPLE TWEET. ENTER UP TO TWICE DAILY.

RT @ponnsabra #GIVEAWAY Win 1 of 2 @CNN @soledad_obrien “Unwelcome. The #Muslim Next Door” press DVD #musliminamerica  http://ow.ly/4rRsO

• Read any post in this series and make a thoughtful comment on that particular post. [For each comment, make a separate comment below.]

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

Determining a Winner

Each comment below designates an entry number. We will use And the Winner Is… plugin to pick a random winner from the total number of comments below. The winner will be contacted by email. If no response is received in 48 hours, another winner will be chosen. Confirmed winners will be announced on our Contest Winners Page, where you may refer to at anytime.

Disclosure: XNN provided these press copies and gave permission to offer as contest giveaway prizes. We not influenced in anyway to share only positive remarks. After all, lying is haram (prohibited). You’re welcome to read American Muslim Mom’s disclosure policy and contest disclosure.

Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

While tweeting for the past week with #musliminamerica I was intrigued by brother Will’s tweets and asked him to elaborate a bit more on his unique position and views on having watched Soledad O’Brien’s “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door”. His response is a letter directed to our Muslim brothers and sisters living in Murfreesboro, TN.

I agree with all that he shares, but also realize that the land is already paid in full, the building phase has commenced, and those growing families really need a bigger masjid to pray. However, this post got me thinking “do we need that whole complex?” My gut says “Yes, I’d totally love one of those for my girls…but…there?” I love posts that make me think. So, I’m so happy to be left stumped, and torn here on my own blog the day before the re-airing of the documentary.

To my fellow Muslim brothers and sisters, leave that town. Don’t live in a city that doesn’t want you there.  Don’t spend your money in their stores or buy homes in those communities.  Don’t add 1 dollar to their economy.  Instead, move to communities that truly welcome and appreciate the entire diversity of humanity. Why pay people to call you a terrorist or un-American or to degrade your faith? The buck stops at dignity.

Remember, it wasn’t the law or the community-at-large that stopped segregation on the buses in Alabama. It was the bus boycott that did. When the Black folks started walking or getting rides from friends or relatives, the economic power of Black folks did what the law failed to do. Yes, the law is on your side, but if the people are going to behave in the way they did in the show, then you have to show them what your economic power means to that community.

To those whom will read this comment, I was born and raised in America.  I am a descendent of slaves.  My father drank from a colored-only water fountain.  When will we learn what this country is really about?  The greatness in America is the promise of America.  Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness don’t go away because you’re not White or Christian. That is the lesson I hope we all learn from the show.

Will Deyamport, III, MSEd has been an educator for the past 11 years. From tutoring to being the college and career program coordinator for UMASS/Boston, Will has worked in a variety of roles and positions. Currently, he is working on an EdD in Educational Leadership and Management at Capella University as well as being a social media strategist for a career development resource company. You can connect with Will on his Peoplegogy blog, LinkedIn or tweet @peoplegogy.

Now, it’s your turn to weigh in on this interesting proposal. Please comment graciously as the majority typically does…Hey, I’m told “you haven’t made it until you get your first hate comment…or hate tweet…” Subhanallah.

Follow the rest of “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series here

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

This post is written from the desk of Hollie Pollard- a solo flying frugal mom with a love for all things Internet related. Another interesting revert to Islam, I’m happy to share Hollie’s view of this documentary, but sad to share it comes from the view of one having “had seen hate first hand”.

First, thanks for the chance to write this post. <= Our pleasure. As-salamu alaykum, peace and blessings be upon you dear Hollie.

When I first saw the ads for the CNN Documentary, I was worried about the angle that CNN would take as western media has not always given a fair impression of Islam.

Even though I watched from North of the border, I watched with much interest as I lived both in New Mexico and California as a non-Muslim. I have an American-born child. I am also a new Muslim having converted in the past 2 years.

Even though I converted in Canada, in a community with a large number of Muslims. I have come to understand the ignorance and the misconceptions of some. My own family has been saddened and hurt by my reversion. The first time I wore the hijab into my local bank I was asked what the garb was on my head. I have been told “go home”. I am 10th generation Canadian so I found that rather humorous.

My mother has had the hardest time, but with time and patience both her and my sister are starting to come around. Yet, even here in Canada’s largest city, I witness discrimination and signs of ignorance and intolerance. I am also white, so when people see me they are surprised I chose Islam with all that has been said about it.

As I prepared to watch the documentary, I knew I would be watching it through the view of a new convert, one who had seen hate first hand.

I was pleased by how CNN portrayed all sides. They brought truth I have not always seen in western media.

I was proud of young Lema, the 18 yr old young woman who took a stand for religious freedom. I pray for my young daughter to have her strength.

I felt for Imam Bahloul. I was encouraged by his faith and inspired in how he lead his faith community.

Lema did well when speaking about Sharia law. One thing I want to make perfectly clear, and I do wish this had been made even more clear in the documentary is that there is no way Sharia law can be practiced in any form in the United States. The constitution has made sure that there will never be an option for any religious law.

I was disheartened by Kevin Fisher, the young black man who filed suit against the Islamic Center. When I found out that his ex-wife is Muslim, I wondered about his real motivation.

Overall I am thankful to CNN for this documentary; may it allow for more of a conversation between Muslims and non-Muslims.

You can find Hollie blogging at Common Cents Mom or SimplyHollie, or tweeting at  @CommonCentsMom.

Follow the rest of “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series here

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

I think many wonder what Kevin Fisher’s main motives are. Don’t you?

A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome” is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

As you know Amanda is not new to our community, her motivational tips in our recent podcast was popular among many of our readers, subhanallah, Glory be to God. Since her tweets we’re going in both direction of this documentary, I asked her to share her personal views in this “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” series. As expected, MashaAllah, God has willed, Amanda and her non-Muslim mom to write with true love, passion, and emotions. I commend and thank you both for sharing your unique views on this thought-provoking documentary.

It is safe to say that when I first saw the trailer for the CNN documentary, “Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door” I had an overwhelming sense of dread, followed by some fleeting thoughts of, well maybe this will bring some truth to light for the rest of the country to see what’s going on.

I have spent a lot of my professional adult life working for and with interfaith activism and greater awareness of Islam in the context of America.

This documentary should have been a great sense of hope, but I found myself wrestling with why it wasn’t. Born and raised a Lutheran in the Upper Midwest, I made the decision to convert to Islam after soul-searching in my college days and a chance encounter with a mosque in the heart of Casablanca, Morocco.

This decision was one of the hardest I had ever made, and took me from a full-fledged member of mainstream society to slamming me into the reality that is being a minority in the United States. This choice also had the potential of ostracizing me from both my family and community.

My family did not turn me away, although they were confused and hurt by my decision. Ultimately they have come to accept, understand and even be vocal about minority and Muslim rights. In the communities I have lived in I have never experienced the level of hate that was portrayed by some members of the Murfreesboro, TN community, although I have been told to “go home,” “speak English,” that I was “going to hell because I rejected Jesus Christ,” that my husband would, “beat me, abandon me and marry 3 more wives,” that I was “unpatriotic and not a real American,” and many many more. Watching this documentary showed me that hate is alive and well in the United States, sadly I didn’t need much reminding.

I was very impressed with how Soledad O’Brien handled herself, remaining very professional even in the face of laughable obscurity! The scene in which Ms. O’Brien is speaking with Sally Wall a prominent real estate mogul of the community and Ms. Wall expresses her fear that the US could end up like Afghanistan, showing a National Geographic magazine as proof, was one such example. My mouth was agape and am still am unsure how Ms. O’Brien managed not to rebuke Ms. Wall and even laugh at this far-fetched idea.

I was even more impressed with Lena Sbenaty who stood up to a defeated Congressional candidate, voicing the truth, only to be belittled and shut down by Ms. Zelenik who clearly doesn’t want to hear anything other than her narrow-minded thoughts. The courage that this young woman possesses in the face of such difficult times is truly remarkable – what a wonderful role model for Muslim girls!

As an American Muslim this documentary wasn’t news to me, but I was interested to see how it would be received by my non-Muslim albeit “in the loop” parents. I asked my mom for her comments;

“After watching “Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door” on CNN, my initial feeling was that of anger. I’m angry that there are people in this country who qualify themselves as more American because of their religious affiliation. One has nothing to do with the other. I am an American citizen. That is my identity in the world. I am a follower of Jesus Christ… that is my choice of faith. Followers of Jesus Christ are also referred to as Christians, but, in my opinion, not all Christians follow Jesus Christ and His teachings. A governmental court in Tennessee has found that the building of the Islamic Center is a fundamental right under the U.S. Constitution’s Freedom of Religion amendment. That should be all that needs to be said for the Christian people who have fought so strongly against this. I stand in peace knowing that whatever happens on this earth is ordained by God and He is in control. He doesn’t need our help.

The hate that I watched these “Christians” spew against their Muslim neighbors in this documentary caused not only anger, but also fear. I have a daughter who has chosen a different religious path than I. She is an American citizen, as is her husband and my two grandsons. They are also Muslim. I fear that someday my grandsons will experience this type of vileness and wonder if any of those Christians are my friends, or feel the same way those Christians feel about Muslims. I will live all of my days proving to them that people will know their grandma is a Christian by her LOVE!”

I am comforted to know that the voices of opposition in Murfreesboro are not the only voices that exist in America. I applaud CNN and Soledad O’Brien for having the courage in the face of much public opposition to create and publish this documentary. I hope that people who viewed this were able to open up if even a tiny bit to understanding who we are.

Amanda is the author and owner of MarocMama, where she blogs about food, travel, and her life raising two boys in a bi-cultural home . She has been actively involved with interfaith dialogue for the last six years, including serving as a project assistant for the State Department funded Religion and Society program through the National Peace Foundation. You can connect with Amanda by visiting her blog, on Twitter @marocmama or by emailing her directly.

Follow the rest of “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series here

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

How does Amanda and her mother’s view resonate with you? Do you agree? Disagree? Somewhat still questioning? Please continue the dialogue in the comment area below.

Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door – Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s Views is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Photographs: Lorenzo Bevilaqua/CNN

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation. Part 2. The pre-screening review. Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool. I’m proud to share with your the below pre-screening review from Hajer Naili a freelance journalist I met last Thursday.

As I had the chance to get a press copy a few days before Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door being aired, I had the opportunity to watch it more than once and to make up my own mind.

The first time, I was very upset to see how ignorance can lead some people to harm others. But then, the second time as I watched it during the screening held at CNN, I was more optimistic and hopeful.

Hopefully, this documentary will change some minds with preconceived ideas about Muslims.

Indeed the Muslim community of Murfreesboro, Tenn. is showed as trying to peacefully overcome all the obstacles to the construction of an Islamic Center.

It is been a while that the Muslim community has not been depicted in a so positive way by media. Usually, media (and some politicians) have this unfortunate trend to see Islam through the prism of terrorism and violence. Then, people take information at their face values without necessarily developing a critical thinking.

As a journalist, I commend the work done by Soledad O’Brien and her team. They took enough time to report an accurate story, which telling characters on both sides. Soledad O’Brien did not hesitate to query the credibility of arguments exposed by Kevin Fisher to stop the construction of the mosque. She did what we are expecting to see from a reactive journalist.

Digital writers attend a screening of Soledad O'Brien's documentary "Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door" on Thursday, March 24, 2011at The Time Warner Center in New York. Photographs by Lorenzo Bevilaqua/CNN

For once, I am pretty sure that a large majority of Muslims who watched CNN, yesterday night, felt involved by the struggle of the Murfreesboro’s Muslim community; either as one who defends his rights, or one who fights against stereotypes or simply one who wants to live peacefully.

It was very interesting to notice how people can be easily manipulated by a small group of individuals who were as much ignorant as the ones they manipulate.

10 years ago, in the aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy, “Islam” and “Jihad” terms were exotic enough to scare people who had no ideas what these words meant. Today, 10 years later, “Sharia” is the new trendy term used by media and politicians to scare people. But nobody knows what he is talking about. Indeed, Soledad O’Brien quite rightly mentioned it at the occasion of the press screening “What was most surprising to me was the way in which the conversation would circle around the Sharia law and the 1st amendment of the Constitution when people have no idea what they are talking about.” she said.

In fact, even within the Muslim community, many of us, live their faith without having a precise idea about Sharia. For that reason, it’s hard to believe that people who are not familiar at all with Islam can talk about Sharia and the danger of its so-called ‘rise’ in the American society. While the Sharia law is not applied in several Muslim-dominant countries, how the American Constitution could be superseded by the Islamic law. I don’t buy it!

As media have their part of responsibility to educate people, I do hope that more journalists will take the brilliant initiative to show the real face of the Muslim community instead of picking scary stories.

By Hajer NAILI, freelance journalist
Twitter: @H_NAILI
Facebook: Hajer NAILI (hajernaili@hotmail.fr)
Website: www.hajernaili.com

Follow the rest of “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series here

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims. is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

Digital writers attend screening of Soledad O'Brien's documentary "Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door" on Thursday, March 24, 2011at The Time Warner Center in New York. Photographs Lorenzo Bevilaqua/CNN

This journey started with our (Part 1) pre-screening invitation, then a (Part 2) short review. I tweeted alongside @Soledad_OBrien and the producer of the documentary @profsamuels_nyu from 8pm ET to about 10:30 pm. Then, I tweeted throughout the 11pm ET showing until 12:30am telling my tweeters I need sleep. Through the twitterfest, I was updating my Facebook pages because some are not on twitter and frequently updating my 2 blogposts.

In the extremely interesting, emotional, often-humorous yet stomach-churning pre-screening discussion with Soledad O’Brien, when I finally had the opportunity to voice my feedback I shared the following:

• I commend CNN and Soledad O’Brien for researching, reporting, and covering this story.
• I shared that I applaud Soledad for having such poignant rebuttal questions and comments, that she amazingly asked and stressed with a straight face. I knew I wouldn’t be able too.
• Soledad shared to earlier reporters, she did her job as a journalist reporting the news, and once Sunday comes it’ll be shared for the real discussion to begin.
• So, I followed-up by stating this piece is a wonderful step forward in exposing the obvious ignorance, now what is CNN doing with In America series and how can We, all the digital writers, present there that morning can work together to help educate.
• I also commended them for taking this lead, which would only be expected from CNN and that Soledad’s effort to host this unique pre-screening for us shows their commitment to further the much needed education.
  

CNN’s response

• Geraldin Moriba, Executive Producer of In America unit stood up and we shared the discussions about the educator’s guide that was not yet ready (I was eagerly checking the hours preceding), the hopes of the blog, articles are Sharia law and anticipation for follow-up documentaries like Black and Latinas in America.
• Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door – Educator and Parent Guide which went live on Friday. Designed for high school and college, there’s nothing there that my 7, 9 and 10 years didn’t discuss.
• In America blog will continue to post articles, op-eds, videos to further educate about Islam and Muslims.
• In America can only produce 5- 7 documentaries per year, so it’s all about funding, supply and demand. We, need to create the demand. So, let’s use social media to make this viral!

Other interesting facts shared:

• Despite the overwhelming pre-screening comments and excessive tweets regarding the irony of Kevin Fisher being a black in the South spear-heading the rallies and lawsuit, Soledad shared that there was never a feeling like he was resentful to the civil rights movement, so they never discussed race.
• Interestingly though, it was shared that Kevin Fisher’s ex-wife is a Muslim. Which when asked if this was a rumor on twitter last night, having just shared this will my family (forgetting about this interesting fact) my family questioned, “Did she embrace Islam and that’s why they divorced?” “Was she always Muslim, and their marriage wasn’t a good one at the beginning?” “Was he a Muslim” (What!?)…”but, wait…his son was in church with him…is he Christian or Muslim?”
• When Soledad shared that she’s going to follow-up on this story in report in the fall, here’s two major issues that can be explored in more detail–motive. Any news regarding arson attack?

The difference with other In America documentaries

• “Without being biased”, Soledad started her Q&A session, “but, this (documentary) is excellent!”
• When discussing with Producer Jason Samuels prior to the screening why and how he happened to fall upon this story, he shared it’s evolution and how the story unraveled like a “dream come true”. It was all by chance. First, they were covering the Ground Zero story, then they heard about Murfreesboro and with the Southern hospitality of all interviewers welcoming Soledad and the staff into their homes and lives, it was an ideal situation. Everyone was passionate on all sides.
  

  Left to Right. Hajer Naili (ILLUME), Holly Pavlika (Big Fuel), Jason Samuels (Producer "Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door"), Ponn Sabra (American Muslim Mom)

• Soledad shared that she was “really pushing for 2-hours”.
  
• CNN continuously acknowledged that they were trying to do something different with this show by picking one story and capturing the lives of a few characters, rather than have multiple stories with little less captivating messages.

Follow Soledad O’Brien on Facebook

New articles and videos from In America blog was fed into her Facebook fan page, so become a fan now.

For example, The Gayle King Show interviewed Soledad O’Brien and Congressman Keith Ellison joined the conversation. Gayle King questions Congressman, How do we bridge from being afraid, uninformed? He shares that this show (the documentary) is one clear opportunity. Congressman continues to share that one positive side effect of Congressional Hearing process led by Representative King aka “Muslim Hearings” and that Muslim American “get their chance to tell their stories”.

Soledad continues to share that it’s more about “demystifying” the uniformed. From the Japanese, Irish, Blacks–decades pass an then there’s a need to pick on somebody else.

American Muslim Mom’s Role

As Congressman Ellision shared with Gayle King, after Rep. King’s Muslim Hearing we’ve been fortunate to receive only positive exposure, alhumdulilah (Praise be to God):

Muslim Hearings Caused American Muslim Mom to Experience Its Highest Trafficked Day Ever

Despite Representative Peter King’s hearings, I’ve been approached by two international brands to conduct Muslim-specific outreach. The first to share my Muslim-specific views and resources to their parent site, and the second to help educate designers about our Eid celebrations because there is a customers demand to create Eid greeting cards. With these unique opportunities, I haven’t had time to fear backlash from these hearings. I’m actually encouraged to see individuals and brands seeking to learn more about an American Muslim’s lifestyle, and feel blessed that they are finding AmericanMuslimMom.com as a resource”, shared Sabra.

American Interest in Muslims Rises After Muslim Hearings According to American Muslim Mom

Saffron Road Food is the 1st company in America to offer Certified All-Natural, Halal, Gluten-free, Indian frozen entrees. The company shared their testimonial:

“The American Muslim Mom blog reaches a very unique audience that’s important for our brand to engage with online. Our recent contest and giveaway garnered a substantial number of entries and spread viral through the blogosphere. We were very pleased with the outcome and look forward to partnering with American Muslim Blog again and again.”

The attention is an encouraging step in efforts to unify Muslims and non-Muslims.”Americans and businesses are reaching out to Muslims through me and the American Muslim Mom brand. I feel blessed to be a part of an effort to unify Muslims and non-Muslims,” said Sabra.

Sabra is encouraged to see that individuals and businesses are searching for their own positive Muslim American Leaders by searching online for Muslims they can relate to. Sabra serves as an expert in this trend, and is available for interviews.

We will host different reviews, opinions and commentaries every day leading to Saturday’s show.

Unwelcome – The Muslims Next Door on youtube

FYI, I only made it my “favorite”, I respect that the DVD will not be sold due to local news affiliates sharing rights to CNN for this documentary, and I will be tweeting during further scheduled showings (full listing available here) , but for those without cable, access to DVR, etc. the full documentary available here:  http://www.youtube.com/americanmuslimmom#p/f/0/gRlqz3e9OrA

Follow the rest of “Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door” series here

Part 1. The pre-screening anticipation.

Part 2. “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” review.

Part 3. The pre-screening follow-up: Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool.

Part 4. Unwelcome: The Muslims Next Door, the dignified struggle of Murfreesboro’s Muslims.

Part 5. Can social media make the world a more tolerant place?

Part 6. A Muslim and Non-Muslim Mom’s View.

Part 7. A single white Canadian mom new to Islam shares her view of “Unwelcome”

Part 8. Unwelcome Response from an Muslim African American Husband – Descendant of Slaves

Part 9. Win CNN’s “Unwelcome. The Muslim Next Door” Press Copy DVD – Not for sale

Part 10. Help Build the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro – Virtual Fundraiser

Watch it with us Live, April 2, 2011 8pm ET & tweet #musliminamerica

So, how will you help leverage social media to educate others about the beauty of Islam and the normalcy of life as a Muslim living in America? Please share your comments openly, and of course–Like, RT, stumble, etc. this post and others. Thanks!

Unwelcome. The Muslims Next Door – Leveraging Social Media as an Educational Tool is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog

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100 Tacori Jewelry Giveaway Over 100 Days – Grand Prize Diamond Engagement Ring (Value $7500) is a post from: American Muslim Mom Blog