Hard work, hopes and dreams

Iman was hard at work this December, as the final lap to SPM came to a grinding halt. She was satisfied with her efforts, regreted a few mistakes. Whatever happens, I am proud of her for her determination to do well, and yet willingness to help her friends too was quite inspirational.

I had kids in the house studying together, sprawled in my living room studying biology, physics etc. The phone would be ringing and there would be exchanges of math equations and solutions. Discussions. Stopping only for a drink or food.

And the Harry Potter movie.

Finally it was all over on 8th December. I had a garden BBQ the very same night and all her classmates and friends came by. It was a relaxing and fun release for the seniors. There must have been close to forty kids and a few adults. My mum helped chaperone as well, and I kept going round making sure no couples escape anywhere, no smoking and no holding hands. No going upstairs.

Actually I needn't have worried. They were all well behaved. The kids also organised the BBQ pit themselves in turn. They made sure rubbish went into the rubbish bin. At about 10.00pm, the guitar and violin came out. Wonderful music in the garden.

It was a lovely evening.

Last weekend, Iman and Inas went out to check the University exhibitions currently on-going with their father. Iman felt much better about her choices. Inas was more determined than ever she wants to do architecture. Iman was ecstatic that even the private colleges told her with her trial results, she can apply for scholarships for sure. A few months back, I had visited Taylor's University By The Lake and loved it. Iman went over the weekend and was enthusiastic (that's mild) - she went on and on about how it felt to be in the lecture hall, how the facilitators spoke to them like young adults - it is going to be exciting watching this young lady grow...
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I must mention - as soon as her SPM was over, I reminded Iman to thank Bik Een who really made life much easier for all of us. For cooking for her, for washing her clothes, for all the little things she does day in day out for the last five years. For cooking extra when her friends come by. And I was glad to know Iman already thanked Bik for all her care.

Concert Day

The whole family got together for concert day! Bik too!

Ilena and Ikesha(her first concert) were adorable. Ilena danced in the Justine Bieber's number Baby - looking immensely adorable and Ikesha sang and danced to a little medley which ended with the song Insyaallah.

All month long they were dancing in the house, bits and pieces and it turned out lovely!

We brought food as part of the pot-luck buffet - lamb chops, salad and tons of root beer! What a hit!

Photos to come...