Traditions: Fasting, Firni, FIFA, and Fastballs

Last night we broke fast at my brother and sister-in-law's home. Mona made a traditional iftar - cholay, choora, pakoras, patties, mango lassi, channa, dahi phulki, fruit salad, firni, and the list goes on! No doubt Mona's dear mom was smiling down from heaven; the last time I had such a feast was when aunty had prepared it, oxygen tank in tow but undeterred in preparing all the delicacies of her famous iftars. My nephews arrived from their baseball games just in time to break fast; Nabeel relishing in his mom's cooking, Ameer enjoying his slices of pizza. The boys led us in prayer, then Zayd and his cousins ran down to the basement to play FIFA. If anyone thinks there's a contradiction between being all Muslim and all American, they should have joined us for dinner last night.Here's a post from our '30 traditions' series on fasting, firni, fastballs and FIFA.I am so proud of my nephews, Ameer and Nabeel. They are growing up with a strong foundation in faith, coupled with a deep passion for sports, especially baseball. They recite the Quran beautifully, and can rattle off any Major League players vital stats. Since Ramadan has been during the summer, faith and baseball come together. The boys have kept several fasts, some days through blazing practices; on game days they break their fast before the first pitch. Ameer’s favorite break fast meal is Panera’s grilled cheese sandwich or pizza; Nabeel loves his mom’s samosas and salans. At night, they pray Isha and Taraweeh at the mosque with their Islamic school community. After eight rakkats, they shoot hoops with their friends in the school gym. Some nights they stay awake playing FIFA on XBox Live with their friends, all the way to suhoor. That’s when they eat their favorite treat –- firni (rice pudding), the way their Anna used to make it. All American Muslim Ramadan. Love you, my Babas.Anna’s Firni2 cups of 2% milk2 ladles of cream of rice cereal¼ plus cups sugarPinch cardamom powderDash of rose waterIn a metal pot, add milk. Stir in the cream of rice. Stir on medium heat until the mixture comes to a slow boil. Once the mixture thickens, add sugar. Stir for 5 minutes longer until sugar completely dissolves and no lumps remain. Remove from heat and add cardamom powder and rose water. Cool before serving.