The day began like any other day at the camp: with Fajr Salaat. The usual compendium of Quran, Du'a, Ziyaraat and tired eyes were typical of the early (or should we say late?) hour. The campers were  quickly back to sleep to be awakened a few precious hours later.

Breakfast saw the staple selection of cereal, toast, yoghurt, cheese and “chai”; and was quickly followed by classes. We learnt about medication, whilst seated outdoors (next to the lake), “who we are” [by finding out our strengths and weaknesses]; discovering the divine hotline to Allah [i.e. humble du'a] and the benefits of fasting. Many of the campers were thrilled to hear that sleep is a form of ibadat in Ramadhan!

Due to our scheduled theme park visit in the afternoon, the classes had been slightly trimmed, and this also meant we had to eat a highly nourishing lunch effectively. We were served “dahl” saag and rice, along with salad, yoghurt, swedish cheese (as usual!) as well as squash and water. Clearly, the administrators are trying to prepare us for Ramadhan by then trying to give us an extra packed lunch of juice, crisps, chocolate and a burger.

Following a sleep-ridden coach journey, the camp split into group of four to five campers ready to invade the local theme park and recite du'a before every ride. Some even stated that they could hear Quran whilst riding the Magic Musalla (i.e. Magic Carpet). Keeping in tune with the Islamic theme, many of us were enticed into and scared by the Jinn House (better known as the Ghost House). One camper has even decided to begin legal proceedings to sue the staff for the stress he suffered!

After four hours of rides and candy, the sugar-high campers were boarded the coach to return home and begun a moving-majalis; full of Quran, Du'a, Qasida and salawaat. Salaat and dinner followed our arrival – we were filled with giant-sized jamaat potatoes that filled us to the brim. Given the late dinner, we begun a quick spring clean and headed to our beds.

We are really looking forward to the last few days at the camp – we are really excited about the sports competitions tomorrow!

Sweden 2008 - Boys - Camper Diaries