I have faced some severe health challenges…

this past week that caused me to put aside fasting for a few days, per the doctor’s orders. In addition to being severely dehydrated, I have 2 infections and a level of inflammation raging in my body  that is through the roof! I am on medication to address the infections and feel 100% better than I did a few days ago. I am pretty in-tuned to my body and can tell early on when things are not right.  Alhamdulillah (All Praise is due too God), I am afforded the opportunity to still reap the reward of fasting.

“and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Sawm (fasts) must be made up] from other days” [Surah (or chapter)– al-Baqarah 2:185]

So far, I have 4 days I will have to make up provided I can get through these last 7 with no problem. The doctor even advised that I wait to make them up during the winter months when the days are shorter, InshaAllah (If God Wills).

The children and my son-in-law’s sister stayed up last night and decorated the house for the upcoming Eid celebration.

Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan

and celebrates the conclusion of the 29 or 30 days of dawn-to-sunset fasting.  There is a particular obligatory Salat (prayer) that must be performed in congregation.  After the prayers, Muslims visit their relatives, friends and acquaintances or hold large communal celebrations in homes,mosques or rented halls. Eid gifts, known as Eidi, are frequently given at Eid to children and immediate relatives.

We are planning to travel AGAIN to celebrate the end of Ramadan. My son-in-law’s sister and his brothers’ family will be here as well. Not sure exactly where we are going but rest assured, I will chronicle it with updates and pictures!