16 July 2010 - note to readers

Bashir and Nicole's correspondence from August 2009 through mid-July 2010 is posted on this blog. Emails from mid-July 2010 onward will be saved in the cloud. Please post a comment here if you are interested in more information about Bashir and Nicole. Asante sana na Mungu akubariki.

July 8 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am so delighted to hear all kind of Fan things that you did in Boston. They really sound good & the way you explained to me, I just feel like I was there with you. Because you have explained Convincingly & Attractively.

To be honest Mum, you know how to explain a story, it's just like the BBC Journalists. Congratulations Mum for that!

Another thing I have just discovered is that you like RUNNING so Much. Wao! Congratulations to My Mum Sarah for winning a Run against you.

Am also happy to hear that your beloved niece AVA & BENJAMIM are all fine including their parents. By the way, Did you tell AVA & everyone that I greeted them? Did you tell your sister Sarah & her family about me?

But sorry that I have not yet seen the Photos you have sent, because my Phone can not open it, unless I should go to the Internet Café to open it.

I have also delayed to reply you this Email just because the Problem of Internet Connection is still occuring in Dar-es-Salaam. Then it does not depend on whether I use a Phone or what, even if I use a Phone, it can't work because it's the same network that we use. But now it's alright & everything has settled. I will go at the Break time to the Internet Café to check the Photos you sent & I will tell you when I see them.

But above all, I have been impressed about the wonderful moments that you experienced in Boston. But it's also very far from Cleveland, wao! a Drive of 12 hours?

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

July 6 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Bashir, how is my fine Son today? Thank you for your wonderful email today! I have attached some photos of my darling niece Ava, my sister Sarah, and my brother-in-law (Sarah's husband) Tony, from my visit to their home in Boston. Tell me if you're able to see the photos!

On Friday 2 July, I flew to Boston instead of driving because the flight takes 2 hours, but driving would take 12 hours. When I arrived, we enjoyed some nice family times, talking and relaxing. Sarah and i took Ava and Benjamin to the town swimming pool. Later, Tony cooked hamburgers on the grill for our dinner. Sarah and I also went for a 3-mile run (about 5K).

On Saturday 3 July, Sarah and I ran 5K in the morning. Then we drove to Portsmouth, New Hampshire (about 1 hour's drive) to pick up my brother Joel, then we drove to Ogunquit Beach for swimming and sunshine. Later we drove back to Portsmouth and walked for 30 minutes to a very pleasant and delicious restaurant, where we all ate seafood like lobster, fish (haddock), and oysters, as well as pizza and chicken. After dinner, we walked for 15 minutes to the park, where thousands of people gathered to watch the fireworks show. Do you know "fireworks"?

On Sunday 4 July, Sarah and I competed in a 2.5 mile race (a little less than 5k). Sarah won 1st place in her category (Women age 40-49) and I placed 2nd in my category (Women age 50-59; I am 510, so we were extremely happy with our performances! Then we took Ava and Benjamin back to the town pool for a nice swim.

On Monday 5 July, Ava and Benjamin went to summer camp for the day, Tony went to work, and Sarah and I drove to the town of Wellesley, near Boston, for some pleasant walking in the sunshine. Later we ate lunch, then she drove me to the bus which took me to the airport.

In total, it was a very delightful vacation!

MUNGU AKUBARIKI! MAY GOD BLESS YOU WITH HIS MAXIMUM SECURITY, DEAR SON!

Your loving and caring Mum

July 6 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Welcome back home Mum! But I first of all apologise for not sending you a special Email of welcoming you back from Boston. I actually thought to do that, but unfortunately my Phone didn't have charge since yesterday. That's why I couldn't send that Email. But now it has & it's what am using right now.

By the way, How was the Journey? How is your beloved niece Ava? What about Benjamin with his Mum & Dad?

Mum, Why did you choose to travel by Plane to Boston? Is it too far from Cleveland?

But am so happy that you have come back so safely. I thank God for keeping you so safely untill you came back & I also thank him for accepting my prayers. He really protected you with his MAXIMUM SECURITY, no doubt about!!

Now am just anxiously waiting to hear from you to update me more about your 'EXPEDITION'.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

July 6 2010 from Cleveland

Hello my dear Son Bashir! Your Mum is home safely from a lovely trip to Boston. I have missed my Son and our daily emails. I'm very excited that we will be emailing each other again starting today! Mr. Jimmy was very pleased to be emailing with you while I was traveling. Right now I have just arrived at work, so this email will be short. I will write you a longer email later, probably tonight. Asante sana for your wonderful prayers that kept me safe in God's maximum security while I was away from home.

MUNGU AKUBARIKI! MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR AND CARING SON!

Your loving and devoted Mum

July 2 2010 from Cleveland

Habari, Son? Your Mum is now leaving to go to the airport in Cleveland. Mr. Jimmy is driving me there. I will fly to Boston to have a lovely visit with my beloved sister Sarah, my darling niece Ava, my dear nephew Benjamin, and Sarah's fine husband Tony. I packed my camera and hope to take some great new photos which I can email to you next week!

I will not be on a computer again until Tuesday 6 July. But each day I will think about my Son Bashir with great love and devotion, and of course I will pray for you every morning and night.

You can email Mr. Jimmy! He will not be working and he promised to check his emails to see if you have sent him something, and then he will reply.

I will email you again on Tuesday 6 July in the daytime in Cleveland, which will be night in Dar Es Salaam.

Please pray for God to bless your Mum with His MAXIMUM SECURITY on my travels!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON BASHIR/ENTERTAINER!

Your loving and proud Mum

July 1 2010 from Cleveland

Hello again, Bashir! Please forgive your Mum! Yes, indeed I have been extremely busy at work all week. The reason is that my boss is on vacation, so I am doing all her work plus my own work! Wao, your Mum is busy every second of the day! But I always say, "I like to be needed" and "I am happy to help" and "Yes, I can!" and "I can do it." And my boss is a very kind and hard-working woman, so I'm pleased to know she's enjoying a lovely week of vacation.

Now I want to offer my sympathy and encouragement to you, my Dear Son, on Portugal's loss to Spain and the elimination of our favorite player, C. Ronaldo. I'm so sad that we now lack a best player to cheer for in the World Cup. Is Ghana still in the competition? Should we cheer for them as Africans? Tell me your comments.

I'm glad you continue to watch the games at Soma!

Regarding the formidable course, 'FUNDAMENTALS OF FINANCIAL CONTROL,' your Mum is now saying a special extra prayer for her brilliant and hard-working Son to be extremely blessed in your understanding and mastery of this course.

Every day and night I pray for you to be blessed in many ways, in your health, peace, happiness, prosperity, friendships, relationships, activities, home, and of course your college education! And now I say an extra prayer especially for you to be the peaceful master of this difficult course. I am fully confident in God's grace to give you this peace and mastery so you will enjoy success in this and every course you take

I also want to say, dear Son, if you should ever need to re-take any exam during your college years, simply let me know and I will send any additional fees so you make re-take it. I don't want you to have any Stress or Anxiety about that! All I ask is that you do your very best, which of course you always do! So please know your Mum and Dad will support you in any situation.

I enjoyed reading your daily schedule! That's very fun for me to imagine your daily life and activities. Usually I get up at 5 a.m. and have my morning prayers, then am busy at home until going to work about 7:30 a.m. After work, I like to go running and also do my household work, have evening prayers, and go to bed by 10 or 11 p.m.!

My heart is smiling with gratitude for your special prayer for your Mum, that God will bless me with His "MAXIMUM SECURITY'! Asante sana for your lovely blessing! I ask God to bless you too with His MAXIMUM SECURITY!

MUNGU AKUBARIKI! MAY GOD BLESS MY BRILLIANT, LOVING, AND HARD-WORKING SON!

Your loving and grateful Mum

July 1 2010 from Cleveland

Mambo, Son! Habari nzuri! Yes, indeed I have been very busy at work, but all is well! I will be writing you a longer email in a few minuntes, but just in case you check your email, I want you to have this note right away!

MUNGU AKUBARIKI, MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving Mum

July 1 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am now having a breakfast as am preparing to go to the College. Right now it's 6:30am. I actually wake up at 5:30am from Monday-Friday . But during a weekend, I even wake up around 8:30am.

I usually sleep around 12 midnight, especially nowadays as the world cup games end around that time. But if there is no any football game, I like to sleep around 9:30-10pm.

What about you Mum? At what time do you Sleep & wake up?

Ok, am now heading to the College & I hope I will find your Email when I check your Email again in my Phone around 4pm.

But I know that you may be were so busy at work & you couldn't send me an Email yesterday as you were so tired. But it's just my habbit to get surprised when the day goes without reading your Email. Because I always wish you well & I always ask GOD to protect you with his 'MAXIMUM SECURITY'.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,

BASHIR!

June 30 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum,

I had a nightmare yesterday of PORTUGAL's exit from the world Cup by SPAIN. They lost by 1-0. I was & am still worried of that a shock defeat because my Player to watch is now out & I will have nobody who will make me happy to watch like way CRISTIANO RONALDO does.

Yes ECONOMICS & ORGANISATIONAL BUSINESS STRUCTURE are tough Subjects but NOT so Much Tough. But there is a TOUGHEST Subject Called 'FUNDAMENTALS OF FINANCIAL CONTROL', this Subject is almost a threat to everyone. We were told that last year only 2 Students of entire Class are the ones who passed this subject, but the rest Failed. Of course there were Rumours that they were given the EXAMS of another SYLLABUS which was different to what they learnt in Class, but despite that, the Subject is really tough & it needs more practice.

But I really feel good & happy when you tell me about running. It's really good to have exercises that bring fitness to the body. I like that & I would really join you if I were there.

Am right now at College & am reading. We are already out of today's class. Am hoping to leave at 5pm for home.

Yes, I still go to SOMA CAFÉ, Yesterday I was there to watch JAPAN & PARAGUAY. But JAPAN lost by 5-4 through PENALTY SHOOTOUT.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,

BASHIR!

June 28 2010 from Cleveland

Mambo, Bashir! Well, it has indeed been a very busy day and evening! Now I am home and it is getting dark outside. It has been nice and hot here in Cleveland, and as you know your Mum likes the hot weather! I run my 10k and 5k even when it's very hot, just so I can stay in good condition, but it's a lot harder to run when it's so hot. That's why I'm very impressed that you and your classmates are buys playing soccer in the sun in Dar Es Salaam, where the temperatures are even higher! Good for you! You're very strong and tough, and those are good qualities for a young man to have!

Oh my, that's a huge loss for England! I heard Germany has a good team so I guess it was true. Do you still watch the games at Soma?

ORGANIZATIONAL BUSINESS STRUCTURE sounds interesting and difficult. ECONOMICS also sounds difficult! Christopher majored in Economics when he was in college. Douglas majored in Sociology and Anthropology. I majored in English and Communications. Your Dad Mr. Jimmy is very highly intelligent, however he did not go to college, but instead began working in the profession of road building right after high school. He drives all the giant machines that no one else can operate! So we can be very proud of him!

I am on "summer vacation" from my master's classes, thank goodness, because I've been very busy at work. But in July, I will take a summer class that lasts for five days, July 13-17. That will be at Cleveland State University. Then, in September, I will take a full semester class at the University of Akron, which you will remember from earlier this year.

Now it's time for your tired Mum to get ready for sleep. I sleep much better knowing that my son Bashir has a comfortable mattress and a fan to cool him!

MUNGU AKUBARIKI!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving and proud Mum

June 28 2010 from Cleveland

Habari nzuri, my dear Bashir! I'm so sorry I did not write to you as usual yesterday or this morning! Things got very very busy at home and now at work! All is well with everyone, just a lot of work to be completed

I will write you a much better email tonight, which will be the middle of the night in Dar Es Salaam!

I didn't want my dear Son to worry about Mum, so am sending this short note for now. Asante sana for caring about your Mum, Dad, and all of us!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR AND WONDERFUL SON!

Your loving and devoted Mum

June 28 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

It's not only USA who have been ousted from the world cup Tournament, ENGLAND too have received an embarrassing defeat of 4-1 by GERMANY. As I am talking right now they are on their way to home. It's quiete an ambarrasment because they were the Favourites & they possess the World Class players.

Right now am in Class at Learnit, am dealing with the new assignment of ORGANISATIONAL BUSINESS STRUCTURE which we were given on Friday. Then I have just checked in my Phone if you sent me an Email, but unfortunately I didn't find it.

Then am surprised because it was on Saturday if not on Friday that you sent me an Email. So I would like to know if there is any Problem.

But I pray for you & your entire family that you should not have any problem. But I wrote you an Email yesterday & I hope you got it.

We already Submmitted the assignment of ECONOMICS on Friday.

Let me now reply your question about 'Where do we play football in Dar-es-salaam, actually there are a lot of playing fields in Dar-es-salaam, but on saturday we played at the Ground Called TAMBAZA, it's quiete close to PALM BEACH HOTEL, it's a walking distance of NOT more than 10 Minutes. Yes, we manage to play even when it's too hot, because the Field play is always busy & we don't wait for the Sun to go down as a lot of Teams Scramble for the Ground. Then it's like that & We can't do otherwise, because it's 'INEVITABLE'.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,

BASHIR!

June 27 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am quiete touched with USA's exit from the World Cup after losing to GHANA by 2-1. The game was very tight & unpredictable. Ghanians used a Physical game in order to overcome the USA, otherwise USA would have carried the day because played very beautiful & a Carpet football. They won a ball Possession of the entire Match. It was just Unlucky the USA didn't win but the Deserved to win.

Meanwhile, the Match was the Hottest & people described it as the best Match of the Tournament.

I actually was behind USA because I wished to be in full Happiness. But anyway, it happens & that's how soccer is.

To talk about our game between IT & BUSINESS classes of Learnit, it ended a 1-1 draw & I played the entire game. But it was really fun & we had a perfect lunch just soon after the Match.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,

BASHIR!

June 26 2010 from Cleveland

Hello Son, I'm very excited as I await the results of your titanic struggle of Business Adminstration versus IT guys!! I will be proud of my wonderful son whatever the outcome because I know you will play brilliantly on behalf of your team! Where do you play soccer in Dar Es Salaam? How do you play when it's so hot!

Next it will be time for USA versus Ghana in World Cup! I hope you will be watching at Soma Book Cafe after your day teaching English at Mr. Iddi's. I will cheer for USA team but if Ghana wins, I'll still be happy because I love Africa and consider myself African as well!

Now I must go. I will be back tomorrow in hopes I hear happy news from my dear Son.

MUNGU AKUBARIKI!

MAY GOD BLESS MY FINE SON BASHIR!

Your loving and proud Mum

June 25 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

High Mum!

Am so delighted to hear that you were so impressed with Portugal's & C.Ronaldo's fantastic performance. Today PORTUGAL are playing the mighty BRAZIL. WHAT A MASSIVE MATCH!

Actually Mr.Iddi provides me a special & Delicious Food when I go there to teach them. He does everything possible that I eat an Edible food when am there. But above all, he showed his appreciation by supporting me when I was taking a Course of HOTEL MANAGEMENT. He also says that apart from that I teach him English, But also my behaviour encouraged him to support me. He says that am POLITE, TOLERANT, RESPECTFULL & OBEDIENT. He also says that he would have already Dropped me if I were so Impolite, Disrespectful & Disobedient to him or to anyone. He says that my good Character is what made him to support me always despite the fact that am Not his Relative by Blood. That's what even made him to willingly regard me as his own young brother.

Yes, I bought a small FUN which cools me at night. It's really good & am happy with that!

Mum, Tomorrow there is a BIG MATCH between BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION & IT classes of LEARNIT. Then I have prepared to defend my Class tomorrow & I will make sure that IT guys suffer with a shock defeat.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,

BASHIR!

June 23 2010 from Cleveland

Hello my dear Son, you are an excellent, wise, and helpful Son to assist your Mum in correct spelling for "MUNGU AKUBARIKI"! Asante sana for your fine teaching! From now on, I will say and spell this blessing correctly, as I want to do. If I forget, I will return to your email to find the correct spelling!

In my last email, I was overcome with emotions about your precious father! In this email, now I want to express my excitement and congratulations to you for the astonishing and heroic success of your best player Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal in the World Cup game against North Korea! How exciting and wonderful that Portugal destroyed their opponent so ferociously and completely. Most of all, your Mum is delighted to know that her beloved Son Bashir is so very happy with this victory!

I read in the newspaper that in the country of North Korea, the government stopped the broadcast of the game when Portugal was ahead by 2-0 - so none of the citizens could watch the rest of the game!

Woo-Hoo for USA! It's pretty amazing that they are advancing, because they're not such a good team compared to the rest. But they possess an important quality: Persistence, sometimes called perseverance. They don't give up! They persist with all their might until the end. So far, so good!

Bill Clinton was a very good president. He is a brilliant scholar, too. He had some bad personal behavior, but he was an excellent leader of the country. I'm happy he visited Tanzania, then watched the USA in World Cup in South Africa!

Next time, tell me how Mr. Iddi likes to express his appreciation to you for your brilliant teaching of English to his family!

Also, let me know if you are able to buy an electric fan for your room so you're nice and cool for sleep.

Sweet dreams, Son, and MUNGU AKUBARIKI!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving Mum

June 23 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

You & I should be in a big Celebration because our Team has qualified into quarter finals.

They beat African Team Algeria by 1 goal to nothing. Algeri's win would mean nothing because they already had too few Points that could make them to go through. That's why I didn't even bother myself to be behind them for being my fellow Africans. England also have qualified. The former USA president "BILL CLINTON" was there to watch his Team USA, he was so happy & he jumped with joy. Actually BILL CLINTON came here in Tanzania & he just decided to go & watch his team before turning back to USA.
Then am so happy with USA's qualification.

But I still need to hear from you about PORTUGAL's 7-0 victory over NORTH KOREA. I told you yesterday but you didn't comment anything. CRISTIANO RONALDO was among the Scorers & he was the one who manufactured other goals. I was in full of happiness & Joy with that result.

Yesterday & today I went to watch the games at SOMA CAFÉ. Your friend EDNA of SOMA CAFÉ told me that you sent her an Email & she told me that you were so happy when you heard that I really go there to have fun of watching soccer.

Finally, I would like to Correct you for a word of "ASUBARIKI". The word is wrong in terms of Spelling, The correct spelling is "AKUBARIKI". But you are quiete correct in terms of it's meaning.

All African teams are out of the World Cup, of course GHANA have not yet played their last game, but the chances of them to qualify are in a very Serious Doubt, because they are facing a Toughest side GERMANY today.

Then it's really a SHAME on Us Africans!

MUNGU AKUBARIKI,

AM YOUR SON,
THE ENTERTAINER!!

June 22 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Son,

Over and over, so many times since last night, I have read your beautiful email about your precious father's words and your conversations together. It's one of my very favorite emails you have ever written to me.

Always I am in awe of God for making us family in the miraculous way He brought us all together! I thank God for the honor and joy of being family with you, my dear Son Bashir, and with your father, whom I consider like a Brother to me.

When I think about all that your father and you have suffered, my heart feels such sorrow, but God soothes my sorrow by encouraging me in each day to bless you as much as possible.

And so I send much love and gratitude to you and your father, and to all your relatives in Malawi, for the privilege of being family with you. I promise I will always do as God wishes and give you all the support I can, so your lives may be easier.

I also send my daily prayers for all of you, and am so grateful for your father's prayers for me and family here, and for your prayers, too.

You and your father are men of tremendous courage. You demonstrate amazing strength and bravery despite such awful suffering. You are both great inspirations to me!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU, MY COURAGEOUS AND BRILLIANT SON BASHIR/ENTERTAINER! Mungu asubariki.

Your loving and dedicated Mum

June 21 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am so glad to hear that you have been impressed with Cristiano Ronaldo's story.
Actually I have just finishe watching his game of PORTUGAL & NORTH KOREA. But the merciless Portugal have destroyed North Korea by 7-0. C.Ronaldo scored 1 & he was a Manufacture of another goals.

Yes I still like Ronaldo despite his exit from MANCHESTER UNITED. Yes, I cheer him when he plays at REAL MADRID & I always wish his team to win.

Sorry Mum for forgotting to tell you about what my Dad of Malawi said when he got the Money you sent him on 30 MAY. He was happy as usuall & he began to express his joy feelings by saying that you are a kindhearted person.

He asked that "How it would be if you would have seen each other? He was meaning that if you are helping him while you don't even know him anymore. That's what surprises him, and that is why he says that he never been assisted by anyone in this world like you do. He added to say that you are a first & last his Supportive person.

Inshort, when we talk, we always talk nothing but of you. sometimes I even try to enterupt him & start to talk about another issues, but he turns back to talk about you just within a Mimnute. Then I untill like to laugh when he praises you. He asks me to tell him "if you were direct sent from heaven", Then I laugh & tell him that no! it's just that My Mum (Nicole) was born to be kind & Generous, then he unstoppably smiles of that.

Finally, he reminded about how he got the Fair Transport for coming here to Tanzania.

He asked if I still remember that he sold all what he Harvested from the farm in order to find money for my Fair Transport, then I said that yes I remember. He tolarated to remain with nothing in the house in order to make everything possible for me come here. Then eventually, I told him that it's what GOD does, nowadays we are getting more than what he sold for my Transport.

Then he made a brief Prayer for you & your entire family while we were talking on Phone.
He also said that he even Drops Tears when he thinks of how he has gone through & how GOD has turned the worst Situation into good through you. Then I told him that I cry about that too!!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM!

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 20 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Son, your Mum is so very proud of you for teaching English to Mr. Iddi and his whole family! WOOO-HOOO! You always do the most amazing things and your Mum is always saying, "My Son Bashir is so great, generous, and brilliant! God is smiling to see what a fine son He has created in Bashir."

I hope Mr. Iddi expresses his extreme appreciation to you in gratitude for your teaching him and his family. How does he express his appreciation to you? Does he invite you to stay for dinner at his house? Does he pick you up and drive you in his taxi? Does he show his gratitude in another way?

For sure, it's very true what you say that in Dar Es Salaam, a taxi driver and other business man must know some English in order to be successful! 100% true!

I'm grateful that you and Mr. Iddi have each other as brothers to care and help each other. Mungu asubariki for your helpfulness to him and his family. I just learned to say "Mungu asubariki"!

Okay, it's good to get your analysis and insights on the USA games, and that our clear goal was disallowed. Oh well, I like to say everything happens as God wishes so I try not to worry. But now I'm feeling sad that African Teams are not doing well. What teams are doing well so far?

My beloved Son, please forgive your Mum that I forgot to ask your best Soccer player. Asante sana for telling me all about your best player CRISTIANO RONALDO of Portugal. I was very interested to read all about his talents, his awards, and the history of his career. I'm very sorry he left your favorite team MANCHESTER UNITED! Do you like to cheer for Cristiano on his new team REAL MADRID, or are they the rivals of MANCHESTER UNITED?

MUNGU ASUBARIKI! MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving and proud Mum

June 20 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am so glad to hear that my brother Douglas got my Photos. Yes am waiting for his Email.

I never told you that sometimes I go to Mr.Iddi's house to teach English his Children including his wife & Muhammadi. I like to go there on saturdays. To be honest Mum, Mr.Iddi has got a lot to thank Me. Now his family is at least knowing English through Me. Even his Taxi job, is somehow doing well because of English that I teach him. As you know that in Dar-es-Salaam if you don't know a little bit of English, you normally miss important Customers, especially the Customers from abroad. Then it's like a Must for every Taxi Driver to know alittle bit of English. I went there yesterday & I taught his entire family.

Yes, I watched the USA game. Yes indeed USA's Clear goal was disallowed. It was unfair decision by the lines Man. As a result the Match ended Controvercially. But USA 100% deserved to carry the day. Anyway, but it's not too bad, our hopes are still a live & healthy despite that a 2-2 draw.

But this year's seems to be too tough, because the big Teams are getting beaten unexpectedly.
The likes of ENGLAND, FRANCE, SPAIN, ITALY PORTUGAL & GERMANY, have all been frustrated by their opponents. But African Teams are not doing well at all, they are losing all the games. It's a Shame on Us because we are the hosts & we needed to come up with Productive & Fruitful results.

Do you know Mum? Douglas's best plyer is LEBRON JAMES. But you never asked your son Bashir's best Soccer player. My best player in the world is CRISTIANO RONALDO of Portugal. His game is scheduled tomorrow against North Korea. He is a sensational winger with some blistering Speed & he produces Unstoppable crosses. He is Speed, Mult-talented & Skilful.

He was chosen as 2008 world Footballer of the Year.

I still like him despite the fact that he left MANCHESTER UNITED & Joined REAL MADRID for £80 MILLION POUNDS. He broke the world Record of being the Most Expensive Player in the world. But I was Finished & Destroyed with his Move to Real Madrid. Because he left a Huge Vaccum at MANCHESTER UNITED.

He is irreplaceable, because his gap is still Unfilled up to date.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 19 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Son, asante sana for sending me the email at 1 a.m. when you were so sleepy - to tell me that you are fine! I appreciate your thoughtfulness and caring very much! I'm glad you had fun watching Slovenia v. USA at Soma. Today I read in the newspaper that USA scored the winning goal but then the goal was disqualified, so the game ended in a draw. Did you see that part of the game, with the disputed goal? I did not see it so I'm curious if my Son did. Then you can tell me your comments about it!

Mr. Jimmy and I will go shopping later. We will buy staples at "Wal-Mart" and fresh fruit and vegetables at "Heinen's." Later at home we will take care of our grass and flowers. Also, I am trying to reach Douglas on the phone. He did not answer his phone this morning, but I'm sure he will call me back. I want to ask him if he received your photos and if he sent you the email!

I hope you enjoy more World Cup games at Soma this weekend! What other activities will you do?

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your caring and devoted Mum

Hello, Son, your Brother Douglas just telephoned me and said he has received the photos you sent him!

He is writing you an email but he has not sent it to you yet. I thought he had already sent it, but he is still writing it.

But he is very happy to have the photos of his Brother Bashir!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving Mum

June 18 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am so impressed to hear that I do the same as you do in terms of Budget or shoping Items.

Yes, my phone has got a text Massage. I like to exchange massages with my a certain friend of College.

Today there was a game again between USA & SLOVANIA, But it ended 2-2. Nevertheless, USA still have got a chance of qualifying for next round.

Let me now sleep, because I feel sleepy.

Right now it's 1am in Dar-es- salaam.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 18 2010 from Cleveland

Hello, Son, habari gani? I'm very happy you got the money safely from Western Union! Karibu sana and asante for being such a wonderful son and for using your money very wisely.

It's an excellent idea to have a budget! You're very smart to do that. Also, you shop the same way your Mum does! We both buy the "staples" that will stay fresh for a while, then more frequently we buy the fresh foods that must be enjoyed quickly while they are fresh. It's fun to know my Son shops the way I do - it makes me smile!

I will for sure tell Abby your greetings! She has not been able to visit my house for a long time, but when she does, I will be proud to show her my photos of you, which I have framed - the ones from Christmas and New Year's Day! She already knows you from the photos I showed her from my trip to Dar Es Salaam, and the many happy stories I tell her about you.

I will call Douglas this weekend and ask him about the email he was planning to send you! I will also ask him if he has received your photos! Usually it takes 2 weeks for the mail to reach between Dar Es Salaam and Cleveland or Chicago.

Usually I don't talk to Douglas on the phone. Instead we send each other short "text message." Do you have text message on your new Internet phone? But tomorrow or Sunday, I hope to reach Douglas by phone to find out all the news! Then for sure I will email you right away to tell you what he said.

Your Mum is thrilled to know you are having such good times at SOMA CAFÉ for the World Cup! I'm sorry the electricity went off, but I'm happy you were with friends at Soma when it happened! Yes, for sure, my friend Edna Msumba works at Soma Book Cafe! She is such a special, dear, wise, and caring lady. I'm so happy you can see Edna and talk with her when you're at Soma. Edna and I like to email each other!

MAY GOD BLESS MY BELOVED SON BASHIR/ENTERTAINER
Your loving and proud Mum

June 18 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hello, Son, habari gani? I'm very happy you got the money safely from Western Union! Karibu sana and asante for being such a wonderful son and for using your money very wisely.

It's an excellent idea to have a budget! You're very smart to do that. Also, you shop the same way your Mum does! We both buy the "staples" that will stay fresh for a while, then more frequently we buy the fresh foods that must be enjoyed quickly while they are fresh. It's fun to know my Son shops the way I do - it makes me smile!

I will for sure tell Abby your greetings! She has not been able to visit my house for a long time, but when she does, I will be proud to show her my photos of you, which I have framed - the ones from Christmas and New Year's Day! She already knows you from the photos I showed her from my trip to Dar Es Salaam, and the many happy stories I tell her about you.

I will call Douglas this weekend and ask him about the email he was planning to send you! I will also ask him if he has received your photos! Usually it takes 2 weeks for the mail to reach between Dar Es Salaam and Cleveland or Chicago.

Usually I don't talk to Douglas on the phone. Instead we send each other short "text message." Do you have text message on your new Internet phone? But tomorrow or Sunday, I hope to reach Douglas by phone to find out all the news! Then for sure I will email you right away to tell you what he said.

Your Mum is thrilled to know you are having such good times at SOMA CAFÉ for the World Cup! I'm sorry the electricity went off, but I'm happy you were with friends at Soma when it happened! Yes, for sure, my friend Edna Msumba works at Soma Book Cafe! She is such a special, dear, wise, and caring lady. I'm so happy you can see Edna and talk with her when you're at Soma. Edna and I like to email each other!

MAY GOD BLESS MY BELOVED SON BASHIR/ENTERTAINER
Your loving and proud Mum

June 17 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

I would like to let you know that I got the money safely from Wetern Union. Thank you so much Mum for your Generosity. Now I have already made a monthly Budget, What I do is that I like to buy things that stay for a long time without being delicate in advance & I keep the Money for the Tomatoes, Onions & other fragile items. The food that I like to buy in advance is like FLOUR, SUGAR & e.t.c! But am really happy with this life of NO difficulties & to be honest Mum, I have become used in this good life.

The news of your friendship with ABBY sounds so good & admirable. It is really good to have good & reliable friends like her. Because a life without friends like her, is not that much better. Say hie to her when you will have a chance of talking with her again.

No! I haven't yet received Brother DOUGLAS's Email. Actually am anxiously waiting to hear from him if he received my PHOTOS. Because it's now 2 weeks since I sent them to him. If he calls you again, just ask him if he got my Photos & you will let me know.

Am again right now at SOMA CAFÉ to watch NIGERIA & GREECE. But unfortunately Electricity went off when Nigeria was leading by a 1 goal. Then am charting with a lady who we met on the day we came here if you remember. The one who told you that she once been in CLEVELAND, Do you remember her? we are still waiting for electricity to come on so that we should proceed watching our Entertaining Game of Football.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM!

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 16 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Son, I'm very grateful to receive the good news of your email today! Your Mum feels so much better to know her Son Bashir is totally fine! Thank Goodness the electricity is working again in your plot. Also, I'm very happy to know you're enjoying the World Cup games at Soma Cafe every day! Your brother Douglas sent me a "text" message to say he was writing you an email. I hope you have received it!

My friend Abby called me on the telephone this evening. She is my dearest friend. We are friends for almost 20 years. We have not talked on the phone or seen each other in person for about two months, because we're both so busy working. Tonight we talked on the phone for one hour! Woo-hoo, that was a long talk! But it was really good. Abby works at a hospital for people with mental illnesses. She helps them to feel better by leading them in interesting activities such as art, music, and conversations.

Well, now your Mum is very sleepy so I will say "Usiku mwema"!

MAY GOD BLESS MY BELOVED SON IN EVERY WAY!

Your loving Mum

June 16 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hie Mum!

I would like to asure you that am feeling well & there is no any problem. Only that my Phone did not have charge since on Sunday night. I couldn't charge because there was no electricity in my room, there was a blackout at our plot. But now the condition is back to normal. Nowadays I don't charge my Phone anywhere because I afraid to get lost or to be stolen. Then am so sorry for making you worried of my safety.

Thanks so much for the western union information & am sure that I will let you know tomorrow when I will come back from Western Union.

I went again yesterday at SOMA CAFÉ to watch the match of PORTUGAL & IVORY COAST. But it ended a goalless draw.

Am hoping to go again today if I get a chance to watch SPAIN & SWITZERLAND.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
THE ENTERTAINER!

15 June 2010 from Cleveland

Habari, my dear son Bashir!

When you are able, please send me an email to let me know you are well!

Right now it's Tuesday night 15 June in Cleveland. I have not heard from you since it was Sunday evening 13 June in Dar Es Salaam, when you were at Soma Cafe watching the Serbia v. Ghana World Cup match.

Your Mum is trusting God to keep you safe and in peace!

All is well here in Cleveland.

MAY GOD BLESS MY BELOVED SON BASHIR!

Your loving and caring Mum

June 15 2010 from Cleveland

Hello, Son, I'm sorry I don't have enough time to write a long email right now, but I want to send this short message to tell you I will go to Western Union tonight and send you $150 USD for your monthly money!

Tomorrow, Wed. 16 June, please check your email for the Western Union information from your Mum!

MAY GOD BLESS MY DEAR SON!

Your loving Mum

Hello, my dear son Bashir!

Here is the Western Union information for you to pick up the money! Please let me know when you have the money safely.

I sent 150 U.S. Dollars, which is about 211,000 shillings. This is for your monthly money for meat, SIM card, and transportation to Learnit College. Also for drinks at Soma Cafe!

(…)

MAY GOD BLESS MY SON!

Your Proud and Devoted Mum

June 13 2010 from Cleveland

Hello, my dear Son! Of course I'm delighted with joy to read your email of today which you have written at SOMA CAFE! Yes, I really wish we were together too, watching the game side by side at Soma Cafe and enjoying some delicious drinks! Fanta Pineapple sounds very good. We don't have it in USA!

Fortunately, you and I are always connected in our hearts and minds, through our eternal Mother and Son bond. But it will be really amazing and happy to see each other again in person someday!

Did Ghana win the game against Serbia? I hope so, because I like to cheer for the African teams along with USA!

Yes, today in USA sports, all the talk is about how great it is that we managed a draw against England! We'll see if we can continue to do well next game.

Today I went for my 10k run. I like to say "It's 10 K Sunday!" and "It's 5 K Wednesday!" because that's how far I run on each of those days. Your Mum is running well and you can be proud!

Very soon your Dad Mr. Jimmy will go to work. Now I will go and visit with him, make him coffee, and keep him company while he packs his lunch!

MAY GOD BLESS MY WONDERFUL DEAR SON!

Your loving and devoted Mum

June 13 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am again right now at SOMA CAFÉ. Am watching the game between SERBIA & GHANA. It's still a goalless so far, but it's quiet interesting & watchable game.

Today I have bought a drink of FANTA PINEAPPLE.

Then I really wish I were together with you watching together the world cup & having Fun of drinks together.

Yes of course our team is not that strong side especially on the paper, but we atleast better off on the field of play. Indeed ENGLAND are much more better than USA & tha's why a draw of yesterday was regarded as a Victory to USA.

Let me now put much forcus on the game & I promise to talk to you again later tonight.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM!

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 13 2010 from Cleveland

Dear Son, I'm so happy you enjoyed watching the Argentina - Nigeria game at Soma! It was a tremendous thrill for me to read the email you sent me while you were at Soma! I can remember when you and I were there together with Mr. Iddi, and it's wonderful to think of you being there and having so much fun. It's great to know U.S.A.ended with a draw with England! I've heard our team is not too good compared to the rest of the world, so at least we hung on for the draw this time.

Your Mum is very sleepy, so I'm going to say Usiku mwema and write you again in the morning! I pray my dear son has a good night's sleep and sweet dreams!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU IN EVERY WAY, SON!

Your loving Mum

June 12 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

We deserve to be happy because our Team USA have forced a 1-1 draw against ENGLAND.

It was a big game & people described it as a 'FINAL'. But I didn't watch that game at SOMA CAFÉ because it was late too night & I couldn't be there by that time. Can you imagine that the game ended at 12pm(mid night).

I only watched there the game between ARGENTINA & NIGERIA.

I will only be watching the game of 5pm at SOMA CAFÉ.

Mum, What's your comment about USA's convincing start?

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 12 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am proud to let you know that am right now at SOMA CAFÉ. The second half has just started & ARGENTINA is leading with 1 goal to nill over NIGERIA.

I have bought chips & Cocacola drink. There is a lot of people to watch.

Mr.Iddi didn't come because he is not much a football follower & he is also too busy with the Job, but I told him & he appreciates for your invitation.

As for me, I will be coming here daily if God wishes.

Yes Mum, Am African American, Just like Obama.
Am so happy to hear that AVA is doing well & I hope you will show her my Photos when you will go to visit her as you said.

Let me now enjoy watching the game & I want to asure you that am really having fan more than you think. Am here to represent you!!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 12 2010 from Cleveland

Habari gani, my dear Son? Thank you for asking about my Darling Niece Ava! She is doing very well. Now she is 11 years old (kumi na moja) and she is finishing "grade 4" at school. On 2 July, I will fly to Boston for a visit to see her, and my nephew Benjamin, my sister Sarah, and Sarah's husband Tony (my brother-in-law, as we call it). I will visit them 2 July through 5 July, then return home to Cleveland. Your Dad Mr. Jimmy will stay here in Cleveland to work and take care of our house and the cats! When I'm in Boston, I will try to take some new pictures of Ava and me -- and send them to you! For sure, I will tell Ava and her family you say "Hi!"

It's wonderful for you to be a proud American, Son! But I want you to always be a proud African, too! You can be both! You can be American and African. It is called "dual citizenship" and I like it very much. I am so very proud of my American African son, Bashir!

I'm also very happy that you will go to Soma for some of the World Cup matches! Please have good times! You can bring Mr. Iddi and your friends from college! Everyone is welcome.

Today it's very hot in Cleveland -- the weather is just like August in Dar Es Salaam! Your Mum loves the hot weather. I'm lucky to have a fan to cool myself.

Do you have a fan in your new room? Maybe you can buy a little fan at Kariakoo. On Tuesday night 15 June, I will send you your monthly money and maybe it will be enough to buy a little fan.

I will send you $150 USD as always. Now that you don't need money for Internet cafe, you can use it for your SIM card or your other monthly needs.

MAY GOD BLESS MY BRILLIANT AND COURAGEOUS SON!

Your loving and proud Mum

June 11 2010 from Dar Es Salaam

Hi Mum!

Am so delighted to be invited to watch the world cup at Soma Café. I promise to go & watch tomorrow, because am already late today.

I would also like to let you know that am Supporting USA. Because I now became an American. I will be behind USA Untill the end of the Tournament.

I thank you once again for the invitation & am so grateful with your Caring Spirit of making sure that am always Fine & Happy.

I asked you yesterday about your beloved Niece 'AVA', How is she doing?

MAY GOD BLESS YOU MUM,

AM YOUR SON,
BASHIR!

June 10 2010 from Cleveland

Hello Bashir, you and Mr. Iddi can go to Soma Book Cafe to watch the World Cup! Entrance is free -- you just need to buy a drink! It sounds very pleasant and you are most welcome to attend and bring friends! The host is Mr. George Bayona, and I already sent him a message to say I'm not in Dar Es Salaam but my son Bashir Nkoma is there and I will ask you to attend! Here is the invitation:

MAY GOD BLESS MY WONDERFUL SON!

Your loving and devoted Mum

Start Time:	Friday, June 11, 2010 at 5:00pm
End Time:	Sunday, July 11, 2010 at 11:30pm
Location:	SOMA BookCafe'
Street:	Mlingotini Close, Plot No 53 Regent Street, Regent Estate
City/Town:	Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

SOMA is proud to announce that it will be showing the FIFA WORLD CUP 2010

DETAILS:

ENJOY THE WORLD CUP ON A BIG 60"LCD SCREEN, AWAY FROM THE EVENING TRAFFIC WHILE HAVING A FEW DRINKS AND BITES

Entrance is FREE>>> All you need is to buy a drink!!!

We will be showing evening matches (5:00pm and 9:00pm) Starting with the opening ceremony on Friday the 11th.

Map to the cafe is available with the poster.

Match schedules and showing will be poster at the cafe.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

P.S BRING FRIENDS