A taste of our culture -Sudanese culture :)

Sudan is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse countries in the world, Sudan has 597 tribes that speak over 400 different languages and dialects due to the strong Arabic cultural influence in the country, particularly in the northern part of the country, the Sudanese dialect of Arabic is the lingual franc spoken among st Sudanese peoples though the English language may be spoken among the Sudanese elite and portions of the Sudanese people. Many Sudanese are multilingual.

 Henna is A beautiful Sudanese tradition ,henna has been used for over 500 years in many countries around the world to decorate women's hands and feet, and especially married women and brides .Some make it light orange, others make it red , but Sudanese like to make it black and shiny. 

 What happens at Sudanese Weddings?

Six weeks before the wedding the bride starts to train in the special dances she dance on the day of Subhia, the first day of the marriage.

 About two days before wedding the bride invites her friends for El Henna. On this day a woman decorate the hands and legs of the bride with henna and spend a happy day together.

That night the groom also has Henna night with his male friends and relatives. The groom doesn't decorate his legs . Only his fingertips and bottom of feet , and his male friends do the same on their hands.

The Weeding Party " Al Dukhla " takes place in houses, large tents, in the streets or in clubs . The bride's family gets a singer and dancing and beautiful dinner is served. The bride wears a white wedding gown and the groom wears a black full suite. On the first day of the marriage, " Al Subhia " . Only certain men can attend the Subhia :the father, brothers, uncles and the groom . The bride dances for audience.

  A women sign and drums have a great time , it's time for the final ritual called the Jirtig" a special red and yellow tray with pottery to put the perfumes and bakhoor in . The bride changes into a red toob and sits with her new husband on a bed of Jirtig with decorated red and gold sheet . 

All the elder women come and wishes the happy couple wealth and health . The groom gets up and sprays the audience with perfume. They both take a drink and spray some of milk over each other as sign of love and peace , that's a little bit of our culture .Sudanese culture

Christmas Gift Ideas 2019

The most wonderful time of the year is here! 

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

 Don’t let Santa take all the credit

Despite all the festive cheer and time with loved ones that come with the holiday season, it can also be a stressful time if you plan on buying gifts for everyone in your life.

No worry you can find your perfect unique gift Here 

The greatest part about exchanging gifts on Christmas morning is watching the look on your recipient’s face as they open their presents. Amaze them with one of these cool, innovative gifts from

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Check out their amazing gift sets and holiday specials .

You can use  this discount code MLTGIF7M to get 15% discount at michaellouis.com 

 Happy Holiday lovelies x

You can check their amazing IG page @instagram.com/michaellouisny

30 Tips To Clear Skin

1. Always Wash Your Face Before Bed .

2. Try An oil_Absorbing Moisturizer .

3. Don't Skip On Sunscreen . 

4. Wash Off All Your Cleanser. 

5. Don't Skip Your Morning Wash . 

6. Use a cleaning Brush . 

7. Don't Over Wash . 

8. Wash, Then Exfoliate . 

9. Clean Your Phone Too . 

10. Stop Touching Your Face . 

11. Change Your Pillowcase . 

12. Beware Of Bangs . 

13. Less Is More . 

14. Don't Pop Pimples . 

15. Derms Are Here To Help. 

16. Know Your Option . 

17. Try a perception . 

18. Wash Your Makeup Brushes . 

19. Be Consistent . 

20. Get Sleep . 

21. Use SPF. 

22. Ask Your Doctor About Birth Control . 

23. Carry Oil_Absorbing Sheets In Your Bag .

24. Antibiotics Are An Option . 

25. Don't Have a large Intake Of Sugar . 

26. Don't Smoke . 

27. Relax . 

28. Never Pick At Your Skin . 

29. Drink Water . 

30. Eat Healthy Food, Vegi And Fruits . 

Sleeping Beauty

Once upon a time, a baby girl was born into a royal family.To celebrate her arrival, all the fairies in the land were invited to be godmothers. After the baptism, a banquet was planned. Seven places of honor were set with golden dishes and diamond goblets.

At the royal banquet, each of the seven fairy godmothers gave their gifts and advice to the tiny baby. There was great jubilation in the palace until, suddenly, an old, wizened fairy angrily appeared.

“Why is there no place for me?” the old fairy demanded.

No place had been set for the fairy because it was known that she was not a good fairy. Enraged at being spurned, she pulled out her magic wand and cackled, “I'll give her a gift she'll never forget. When she turns sixteen, the princess will cut her finger on a spindle, and she will die!” She then vanished in a flash of lightning.

The king and queen wept, but the seventh fairy urged them not to despair. “Your Majesties, I can't completely undo this curse, but I can make it milder. Instead of dying, when the princess cuts her finger, she and the entire kingdom will fall asleep, and slumber for 100 years. All will be awakened by the kiss of a prince.”

This brought some comfort to the king and queen. In hopes of thwarting the curse altogether, however, they banned all spindles from the kingdom.

The evil fairy's magic was very powerful, though. On the princess's sixteenth birthday, she was exploring the highest, most isolated turret of the castle, where she found an old woman smiling and spinning golden thread.

“What is that?” the princess asked. She had never seen a spinning wheel.

“A spindle,” said the old woman. “Would you like to see it?”

The princess reached her hand out and cut her finger on the spindle. She immediately fell asleep.

At that same instant, everyone in the castle fell into a deep sleep: the king and queen, all the servants, and even the animals in the stables.

A hundred years passed, and the old castle was overgrown by a big forest.

One day, a prince was lost in this dark forest. He was just about to give up all hope of finding his way when he saw the glint of stone in the distance. As he got closer, he was amazed to see the wall of a castle. It was quite magnificent, despite the vines creeping up along its walls and the huge lawn that was choked with weeds.

He made his way inside and marveled at the inhabitants of the castle, who were all asleep. Guards slept standing at their posts, seamstresses sat sleeping on their stools, cooks stood sleeping in midstir, and a sleeping musician sat poised to play the piano. It was a very odd sight, thought the prince.

As he walked through the castle, he came to the very room where the beautiful princess slept. There he saw the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. The prince leaned forward and kissed the sleeping girl on her forehead.

Just then, the princess's eyes opened, and she looked at the prince as if she'd known him forever.

“Is that you, my prince?” she whispered. “I've waited so long.”

Then, the prince told her that he had loved her from the first moment he'd laid eyes on her.
One by one the servants awoke, and they prepared a great wedding feast.

The prince and princess were married that very afternoon and loved each other forever after.

Be a smart Skincare Shopper

The internet is full of the other people's skincare routines and misinformation. I have seen so many people copy someone's skincare routine just because it worked for that person, and have seen it do more damage than good.

Here are some tips to be a smart Skincare consumer

• Don't copy someone else's skincare routine without research! Understand your skin type, your skin allergies, and do a ton of research into products before purchasing them. This can save you a lot of money in the long run because you'll know more before you try it blindly. 

• Understand common skincare ingredients.They are more common active skincare ingredients. Taking the time to understand what they are and how they work can be very beneficial so you can understand how products that contain these actives ingredient may affect your skin.

• Look at multiple sources. You shouldn't be getting all of your research from one source. Always look at multiple websites to understand a full spectrum of information. Also remember that there are lots of opinions on internet. This can cause a lot of misinformation.

• Don't make snap skincare purchases just because you're curious. Again take the time to do your research. Skincare is definitely a time commitment too, but it's so worth it.

• Understand your skin! figure out if certain ingredients cause irritation or clogged pores for your skin. Everyone's skin Is different. You may be lucky having resilient skin, but you may be not so lucky and have a sensitive skin.

• Shop from credible places. Instead of constantly trying out products from the drugstore, or spending money on sketchy third party websites, shop from places you know and trust. Also shop from places like Sephora where you can return items that don't work for you.                                                    
  

  I hope this can start to help you navigate the very confusing world of Skincare. It's an investment in time as well as in money, so just be smart about where you are spending it!                                       

How To Look Beautiful Without Makeup

Hello wonderful human beings! I hope you're having an awesome day :)

I'm not sure about you guys, but I don't really think I possess "natural beauty" . So let me share some tips for you to look flawless without makeup.

Smile More 

It's easy yes SMILE.It compliments your look and add a kind of glow to your face.

Wear Red

Red Is scientifically proven to make you look more attractive. so, next time you're choosing an outfit, try something red.

Dress To Impress

I'm sure you heard it multiple time, but have you ever taken it to heart? trying a fancier style can really bring out your natural beauty.

Accessorize

Accessorizing is a simple way to add cute touches to your outfit and can really set off your look :)

Skincare

Having clear skin may take some work, but it pays off. Some easy ways to get clear skin is to moisturize and wash your face daily.

Try Out a new Hairstyle

Trying out a new hairstyle is really simple and easy, and can give your look a unique and new twist.

Get a manicure

Getting a manicure is also very simple, and can easily add some flair to your look, and bring out your beauty.

Having a proper Sleep

Getting at least 8 hours sleep can give your face a fresh glow.After all, it is called beauty sleep!

Exercise Often

Exercising frequently keeps you physically fit and helps you maintain your overall appearance.

Keep Up With Your Eyebrows

Sounds kind of weird ;) but keeping your eyebrows clean and trimmed can really showcase your beauty.

That's all, but before I end this I just want to let you know that you are beautiful, no matter what you think. Your outer beauty dose not matter as much as your inner beauty. You are beautiful just the way you are :)

Ramadan

Ramadan  رمضان‎ Ramaḍān,  also known as Ramazan, romanized as Ramzan, Ramadhan, or Ramathan) is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar  and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting(sawm) to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief. This annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts 29–30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths.

The word Ramadan comes from the Arabic root ramiḍa or ar-ramaḍ, which means scorching heat or dryness. Fasting is fard(obligatory) for adult Muslims, except those who are suffering from an illness, travelling, are elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, chronically ill or menstruating. Fasting the month of Ramadan was made obligatory (fard) during the month of Sha'ban, in the second year after the Muslims migrated from Mecca to Medina. 

While fasting from dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids, smoking, and engaging in sexual relations. Muslims are also instructed to refrain from sinful behavior that may negate the reward of fasting, such as false speech (insulting, backbiting, cursing, lying, etc.) and fighting except in self-defense. Pre-fast meals before dawn are referred to as Suhoor, while the post-fast breaking feasts after sunset are called Iftar. Spiritual rewards (thawab) for fasting are also believed to be multiplied within the month of Ramadan.  Fasting for Muslims during Ramadan typically includes the increased offering of salat (prayers), recitation of the Quran and an increase of doing good deeds and charity.

It is believed that the Quran was first revealed to Muhammad during the month of Ramadan which has been referred to as the "best of times". The first revelation was sent down on Laylat al-Qadr (The night of Power) which is one of the five odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. According to hadith, all holy scriptures were sent down during Ramadan. It is further believed that the tablets of Ibrahim, the Torah, the Psalms, the Gospel and the Quran were sent down on 1st, 6th, 12th, 13th and 24th Ramadan, respectively.

Important Dates

The beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by the lunar Islamic calendar.

Beginning

Hilāl (the crescent) is typically a day (or more) after the astronomical new moon. Since the new moon marks the beginning of the new month, Muslims can usually safely estimate the beginning of Ramadan. However, to many Muslims, this is not in accordance with authenticated Hadiths stating that visual confirmation per region is recommended. The consistent variations of a day have existed since the time of Muhammad.

Night of Power

 Laylat al-QadrThe Arabic Laylat al-Qadr, translated to English is "the night of power" or "the night of decree", is considered the holiest night of the year. This is the night in which Muslims believe the first revelation of the Quran was sent down to Muhammad stating that this night was "better than one thousand months [of proper worship]"

Also, generally, Laylat al-Qadr is believed to have occurred on an odd-numbered night during the last ten days of Ramadan, i.e., the night of the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th. 

Eid

Eid al-Fitr and Eid prayersThe holiday of Eid al-Fitr (Arabic:عيد الفطر) marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the next lunar month, Shawwal. This first day of the following month is declared after another crescent new moon has been sighted or the completion of 30 days of fasting if no visual sighting is possible due to weather conditions. This first day of Shawwal is called Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr may also be a reference towards the festive nature of having endured the month of fasting successfully and returning to the more natural disposition (fitra) of being able to eat, drink and resume intimacy with spouses during the day.

Religious practices

The common practice during Ramadan is fasting from dawn to sunset. The pre-dawn meal before the fast is called the suhur, while the meal at sunset that breaks the fast is the iftar.Muslims also engage in increased prayer and charity during Ramadan. Ramadan is also a month where Muslims try to practice increased self-discipline. This is motivated by the Hadith, especially in Al-Bukhari that "When Ramadan arrives, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of hell are locked up and devils are put in chains."

Fasting

Fasting during RamadanRamadan is a time of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam. The fast (sawm) begins at dawn and ends at sunset. In addition to abstaining from eating and drinking during this time, Muslims also increase restraint, such as abstaining from sexual relations and generally sinful speech and behaviour. The act of fasting is said to redirect the heart away from worldly activities, its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from harmful impurities. Ramadan also teaches Muslims how to better practice self-discipline, self-control,  sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity (zakat).

Exemptions to fasting are travel, menstruation, severe illness, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. However, many Muslims with medical conditions insist on fasting to satisfy their spiritual needs, although it is not recommended by the hadith. Professionals should closely monitor such individuals who decide to persist with fasting. Those who were unable to fast still must make up the days missed later.Muslims do not have to complete this if they are unable to, in the Quran it says that if somebody has difficulty participation in fasting then they do not have to. An example of a time when you are unable to is: being homeless or poor, being malnourished, pregnant, being a new born baby or having any illness preventing this from happening.

Suhoor

Each day, before dawn, Muslims observe a pre-fast meal called the suhoor. After stopping a short time before dawn, Muslims begin the first prayer of the day, Fajr.

Iftar

At sunset, families hasten for the fast-breaking meal known as iftar. Dates are usually the first food to break the fast; according to tradition, Muhammad broke fast with three dates. Following that, Muslims generally adjourn for the Maghrib prayer, the fourth of the five daily prayers, after which the main meal is served.

Social gatherings, many times in a buffet style, are frequent at iftar. Traditional dishes are often highlighted, including traditional desserts, and particularly those made only during Ramadan. Water is usually the beverage of choice, but juice and milk are also often available, as are soft drinks and caffeinated beverages.

In the Middle East, the iftar meal consists of water, juices, dates, salads and appetizers, one or more main dishes, and various kinds of desserts. Usually, the dessert is the most important part during iftar. Typical main dishes are lamb stewed with wheat berries, lamb kebabs with grilled vegetables, or roast chicken served with chickpea-studded rice pilaf. A rich dessert, such as luqaimat, baklava or kunafeh (a buttery, syrup-sweetened kadaifi noodle pastry filled with cheese), concludes the meal.

Over time, iftar has grown into banquet festivals. This is a time of fellowship with families, friends and surrounding communities, but may also occupy larger spaces at masjid or banquet halls for 100 or more diners.

Charity

Charity is very important in Islam, and even more so during Ramadan. Zakāt, is obligatory as one of the pillars of Islam; a fixed percentage of the person's savings is required to be given to the poor. Sadaqah is voluntary charity in giving above and beyond what is required from the obligation of zakāt.

Nightly prayers

TarawihTarawih (Arabic: تراويح‎) refers to extra prayers performed by Muslims at night in the Islamic month of Ramadan. Contrary to popular belief, they are not compulsory. However, many Muslims pray these prayers in the evening during Ramadan. Some scholars maintain that Tarawih is neither fard or a Sunnah, but is the preponed Tahajjud (night prayer) prayer shifted to post-Isha' for the ease of believers. 

Recitation of the Quran

In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to read the entire Quran. Some Muslims perform the recitation of the entire Quran by means of special prayers, called Tarawih. These voluntary prayers are held in the mosques every night of the month, during which a whole section of the Quran (juz', which is 1/30 of the Quran) is recited. Therefore, the entire Quran would be completed at the end of the month. 

Cultural practices

In some Muslim countries today, lights are strung up in public squares, and across city streets, to add to the festivities of the month. Lanterns have become symbolic decorations welcoming the month of Ramadan. In a growing number of countries, they are hung on city streets.

Common greetings during Ramadan are "Ramadan Mubarak" or "Ramadan Kareem", which wish the recipient a blessed or generous Ramadan
Ramadan fasting is safe for healthy people, but those with medical conditions should seek medical advice if they were to encounter health problems before or during fasting. The fasting period is usually associated with modest weight loss, but weight can return afterwards.

Ramadan in polar regions

The length of the dawn to sunset time varies in different parts of the world according to summer or winter solstices of the sun. Most Muslims fast for 11–16 hours during Ramadan. However, in polar regions, the period between dawn and sunset may exceed 22 hours in summers. For example, in 2014, Muslims in Reykjavik, Iceland, and Trondheim, Norway, fasted almost 22 hours, while Muslims in Sydney, Australia, fasted for only about 11 hours. Muslims in areas where continuous night or day is observed during Ramadan follow the fasting hours in the nearest city where fasting is observed at dawn and sunset. Alternatively, Muslims may follow Mecca time.

Trendy Spring Wardrobe Essentials

 

Polka Dots

Nothing says spring more than polka dots; they are a spring closet must-have. This timeless print will never get out of style. You can always depend on polka dots to give you an effortlessly stylish and cute look.

Yellow

Yellow Is the biggest color trend for spring 2019. This sunny pastel shade spring can be worn with your go-to casual denim trousers, or you can go the extra mile and match your yellow top with yellow bottoms to create positive spring vibes.

Chunky Sneakers

Step into spring in chunky sneakers. The ugly sneaker trend is showing no signs of slowing down; so ride this wave and make your spring ensembles look freakishly stylish by pairing your outfits with these comfy and practical sneakers.

Paisley/ Scarf Prints

Make a bold statement by spicing up your outfit with some boho chic, the 70s inspired bandanna print tops.

Neon

Spring is all about playing around with bright hues. You can rock this electric hue from head-to-toe to create an eye-popping outfit. I know that for some of you neon might be a tad bit intimidating, but try mixing and matching it with neutrals. 

Biker Shorts

Unleash your legs in the trendiest shorts at the moment: biker shorts. Biker shorts are just as comfortable to wear as leggings, and are versatile. This sporty garment can be transitioned from a causal everyday look to a fashionable evening look.

Zebra Print

If you are having leopard print fatigue, opt for zebra print. Zebra print is currently IN - so look on trend and chic by wearing a zebra print top with mom jeans - if you want, you can also rock a zebra print dress for a sophisticated daytime look.

Floral Prints

What better way to celebrate spring than to wear floral print. Trust me, anything floral print is a MUST in your spring wardrobe.

Cardigans

Because you can't step out in a crop top or a vest just yet due to the occasional cold breezes, get yourself a knitted cardigan to layer on top of your spring tops to keep you warm.

Things To Always Remember

 The past can't be changed

Opinions don't define you 

 Everyone's journey is different 

 Keep things simple with overthinking

 Judgement should be about you not others 

True happiness is found within yourself

Your thoughts affect your mood

Your smile has the power to light up the room

 Kindness is free

 It's okay to let go and move on 

 What goes around, comes back around

Things will always get better with time