It’s Sha’ban, the month before Ramadan (Islamic Lunar Months). As soon as it starts, the anticipation for Ramadan slowly seeps into our bodies and the excitement rises!

The 14^th of Sha’ban which is also called “El Laileh” or “Lailat El Nes” (which means “The Night” or “The night before the half”. The half as in the half of the month which falls on the 15^th); is a day we celebrate here in the UAE.

Children all dress up in traditional Emirati clothes go from one house to another and are given treats.  The candy given is for El Laileh. To celebrate their happiness that Ramadan is near.

As children we were not allowed to go from one house to another asking for treats. I never knew why.
But family and friends used to send us bags of treats, which will last for months!

This year, I didn’t have time to go buy candy to give out. I was too busy planning my anniversary dinner. Hopefully next year! Inshallah!

—-

I was extremely glad that we decided to spend the weekend in the farm. Although our bags were like we were going away for a month but when you have children they have so many needs so this leaves you packing what you need, what you might need and what you most probably won’t need!
The boys loved playing with the sand, interacting with the animals and just spending time with their father.

—