About me..
Saturday, July 17, 2004
I'm going to Baghdad tomorrow. So, I might not be able to post for few days. Therefore, I’m writing a long post...
(Updated on the 6th of December, 2008
Note: I find it harder and harder to update everytime, as I find it harder to understand -and hense explain- myself.)
Name:
My name is not Najma. I prefer writing anonymously for security reasons. I hope that I will one day be able to use my real name, since I'm really hating Najma for getting all the credit!
Birth:
I was born in Baghdad: 1988, April, 23rd. But I'm originally from Mosul. All of my mother's family members were living in Baghdad since my grandpa moved to Baghdad in 1967 until 2003 when one by one they moved to either Mosul, Jordan, or the UAE.
Education:
-Al-Fotowa primary school, finsihed with an average of 99.7
-Al-Motamaiezat secondary school.. I completed the first three years with an average of 98, and got an average of 97.29% (100.7% adding the extra marks I get for studying French, and for not failing any year)
-Currently studying Communication engineering at the University of Mosul and had the highest marks at my first two years.
And that I hope is just the tip of the iceberg!
Blogging:
Started blogging on the 10th of June, 2004, encouraged and inspired by my uncle.. Blogging turned to be the best way to fill time, make great friends and learn new things. And although I am writing less and less by time, I'm not willing to stop any time soon.
Following me were 8 relative bloggers: Truth Teller (Dad), Rose (My aunt), HNK (My sister), Raghda (My cousin), Hassan (My cousin), Dalia, Mama and Sunshine.
Quick info:
* I have many goals and so many dreams, and I believe God is by my side to achieve and see them all happen, one by one.
* Some people say I'm too calm, others say I'm very active. It's quite relative.
* I have an amazing capacity to embarrass myself!
* Anyone who's humorous, honest and smart is granted to have my utmost admiration, and a smile is bound to make my heart flutter, thus by applying and getting into my college I have come to admire and cherish so many people that I think applying to this college was the best thing I've done in my life.
* It gives me a strong feeling just to sing the national anthem, the word "watan" means a lot to me, and for some reason, I never hear it now.. I even get emotional upon hearing "This land is your land"! It's quite confusing actually.
* Lost between loving this city and hating it! It's a complex relationship. We just don't get along well but I owe it my life! Most of the people are so tradition-oriented it makes me sick sometimes.
* Nothing gets me more excited than thinking that I can continue my study outside Iraq and see the world. But I don't intend to settle anywhere else.
* I hate weddings and parties and can barely find a subject to talk about.. I don't know how to cook, don't like to do house-work, and can't navigate around the city.. Actually, I'm pathetically ignorant when it comes to these things one would think I've come from another planet!
Najma
(Updated on the 6th of December, 2008
Note: I find it harder and harder to update everytime, as I find it harder to understand -and hense explain- myself.)
Name:
My name is not Najma. I prefer writing anonymously for security reasons. I hope that I will one day be able to use my real name, since I'm really hating Najma for getting all the credit!
Birth:
I was born in Baghdad: 1988, April, 23rd. But I'm originally from Mosul. All of my mother's family members were living in Baghdad since my grandpa moved to Baghdad in 1967 until 2003 when one by one they moved to either Mosul, Jordan, or the UAE.
Education:
-Al-Fotowa primary school, finsihed with an average of 99.7
-Al-Motamaiezat secondary school.. I completed the first three years with an average of 98, and got an average of 97.29% (100.7% adding the extra marks I get for studying French, and for not failing any year)
-Currently studying Communication engineering at the University of Mosul and had the highest marks at my first two years.
And that I hope is just the tip of the iceberg!
Blogging:
Started blogging on the 10th of June, 2004, encouraged and inspired by my uncle.. Blogging turned to be the best way to fill time, make great friends and learn new things. And although I am writing less and less by time, I'm not willing to stop any time soon.
Following me were 8 relative bloggers: Truth Teller (Dad), Rose (My aunt), HNK (My sister), Raghda (My cousin), Hassan (My cousin), Dalia, Mama and Sunshine.
Quick info:
* I have many goals and so many dreams, and I believe God is by my side to achieve and see them all happen, one by one.
* Some people say I'm too calm, others say I'm very active. It's quite relative.
* I have an amazing capacity to embarrass myself!
* Anyone who's humorous, honest and smart is granted to have my utmost admiration, and a smile is bound to make my heart flutter, thus by applying and getting into my college I have come to admire and cherish so many people that I think applying to this college was the best thing I've done in my life.
* It gives me a strong feeling just to sing the national anthem, the word "watan" means a lot to me, and for some reason, I never hear it now.. I even get emotional upon hearing "This land is your land"! It's quite confusing actually.
* Lost between loving this city and hating it! It's a complex relationship. We just don't get along well but I owe it my life! Most of the people are so tradition-oriented it makes me sick sometimes.
* Nothing gets me more excited than thinking that I can continue my study outside Iraq and see the world. But I don't intend to settle anywhere else.
* I hate weddings and parties and can barely find a subject to talk about.. I don't know how to cook, don't like to do house-work, and can't navigate around the city.. Actually, I'm pathetically ignorant when it comes to these things one would think I've come from another planet!
Najma
posted by Najma at 5:26 PM, | 
113 Comments:
Thanks Starliz, I've been waiting alot and you're the only one...
Sent you an e-mail!
fletch!
fletch!
An obvious bright star in Iraq's future.
Been a real fan of your blog for the three weeks since I discovered you. You're a good person and if you're representitive of Iraq's younger generation then Iraq has a bright future.
Another of my favorite blogs is Mahmood's Den at http://www.mahmood.tv/ Mahmood is so funny he constantly keeps me laughing.
Seems in America we are constantly bombarded with the bad news. If there is a bombing, such as recently happened in Mosul, it is all over the news making it appear the U.S. military is in constant conflict with every civilian in Iraq.
Because of the constant flood of bad news many Americans want to "cut and run" to avoid another Vietnam style war which, from what little I know, is the worst thing we could do right now before free elections. If we leave now Iraq will never have free elections but would enter a civil war with the cruelest despot eventually replacing Saddam as yet another unelected dictator in the middle east.
What are your thoughts on this? How do other young people your age view the current situation in Iraq and the future?
Thanks for your blog.
Another of my favorite blogs is Mahmood's Den at http://www.mahmood.tv/ Mahmood is so funny he constantly keeps me laughing.
Seems in America we are constantly bombarded with the bad news. If there is a bombing, such as recently happened in Mosul, it is all over the news making it appear the U.S. military is in constant conflict with every civilian in Iraq.
Because of the constant flood of bad news many Americans want to "cut and run" to avoid another Vietnam style war which, from what little I know, is the worst thing we could do right now before free elections. If we leave now Iraq will never have free elections but would enter a civil war with the cruelest despot eventually replacing Saddam as yet another unelected dictator in the middle east.
What are your thoughts on this? How do other young people your age view the current situation in Iraq and the future?
Thanks for your blog.
Is this your email? blognblog04@yahoo.com.biz
You do a great job on your blog. I am here reading almost every day. Good luck with your trip to Baghdad. I will be excited to read about your new niece or nephew.
Lisa
Lisa
Hi Najma,
Many people read your blog every day (like me) and don't comment unless we have something relevant to add or a question to ask... when we don't comment this doesn't mean we aren't interested in what you've written it just means we don't have anything to add. Everything you've written has opened my eyes a little more about what's happeneing in your part of the world and is affecting my opinions.
Btw, you have a quote at the top of your page from shakespeare "To be or not to be that is the question"... what made you choose that quote?
Many people read your blog every day (like me) and don't comment unless we have something relevant to add or a question to ask... when we don't comment this doesn't mean we aren't interested in what you've written it just means we don't have anything to add. Everything you've written has opened my eyes a little more about what's happeneing in your part of the world and is affecting my opinions.
Btw, you have a quote at the top of your page from shakespeare "To be or not to be that is the question"... what made you choose that quote?
Najma,
Also one more question. I'm curious why you chose to blog in english? Is it because there aren't many arab speakers online or is it that you're as curious about us (english speakers) as we're curious about you? Or some other reason?
Okay... and I have another question ;) You haven't really spelled out your view on the war in Iraq and whether you think it was right or wrong for America to invade? And are you optimistic about the future of Iraq now? Have your opinions changed over the course of the last 18 months or so?
Also one more question. I'm curious why you chose to blog in english? Is it because there aren't many arab speakers online or is it that you're as curious about us (english speakers) as we're curious about you? Or some other reason?
Okay... and I have another question ;) You haven't really spelled out your view on the war in Iraq and whether you think it was right or wrong for America to invade? And are you optimistic about the future of Iraq now? Have your opinions changed over the course of the last 18 months or so?
Hey, I have comments to answer :)
Sometimes, I really become sad because of the situation in the country and how people are getting killed everyday, people who have nothing to do with politics, people who have no enimies, they get killed for no reason. i can't prevent myself from thinking that next time it can be me... But then something good happens and all the bad memories go, I don't like what's happening in the country, and my friends don't like it too.. although I haven't seen them for two months but two months ago they didn't like it. Especially when we're having an exam and the helecopters are flying, that's really annoying.
My E-mail is nblog04.blogspot.com
-Thank you Lisa. :)
-What made me choose this quote is that I want to be something in life, I want to change the situation. I chose to be someone people know, I simply want to be... I really tried to put this sentence in the footer of the page but I couldn't "Well, I chose to be". many other Iraqis live because they have to, they study, finish school, go to any collage they can go to, get married to the first woman they meet, have children, raise them to be like them, die and good bye, they did nothing in their life that can be told to their grandchildren..... I want to be known, from my early childhood I wanted to get the nobel prize, and i still want to, the road of the thousand miles starts with one step.
Sometimes, I really become sad because of the situation in the country and how people are getting killed everyday, people who have nothing to do with politics, people who have no enimies, they get killed for no reason. i can't prevent myself from thinking that next time it can be me... But then something good happens and all the bad memories go, I don't like what's happening in the country, and my friends don't like it too.. although I haven't seen them for two months but two months ago they didn't like it. Especially when we're having an exam and the helecopters are flying, that's really annoying.
My E-mail is nblog04.blogspot.com
-Thank you Lisa. :)
-What made me choose this quote is that I want to be something in life, I want to change the situation. I chose to be someone people know, I simply want to be... I really tried to put this sentence in the footer of the page but I couldn't "Well, I chose to be". many other Iraqis live because they have to, they study, finish school, go to any collage they can go to, get married to the first woman they meet, have children, raise them to be like them, die and good bye, they did nothing in their life that can be told to their grandchildren..... I want to be known, from my early childhood I wanted to get the nobel prize, and i still want to, the road of the thousand miles starts with one step.
Oops I forgot one...
Well, I have many reasons to blog in English. The 1st reason is that I want to practice English more, I want to improve my grammers. the 2nd one, I wanted to meet new people i don't know about, Arabs know English but English speekers usually don't know Arabic.
About your other questions... I'll have to think about them, I'll find you answers in Baghdad.
Well, I have many reasons to blog in English. The 1st reason is that I want to practice English more, I want to improve my grammers. the 2nd one, I wanted to meet new people i don't know about, Arabs know English but English speekers usually don't know Arabic.
About your other questions... I'll have to think about them, I'll find you answers in Baghdad.
She is forgot to say she is not a 16 years old, she is not a girl. She is just pretending so to win some readers.
"Oh this little sweet girl everybody want to read what she writes"
"Oh this little sweet girl everybody want to read what she writes"
Najima, are you pretending to be a sixteen year old girl because you think nobody wants to listen to a seventeen year old boy? Hee hee.... Anyway, that feeling of wanting to do something special is a good feeling. It will push you to do things you might not otherwise attempt. Like start a blog in English....
Keep doing what it is you love, and people will love you for it....
Keep doing what it is you love, and people will love you for it....
Whether a 16 year old girl or 17 year old boy I really enjoy the blog.
I think you are wrong though, I think it is written by a girl.
I think you are wrong though, I think it is written by a girl.
I like your writing.
Are you kidding... there is no way this is written by a guy. I don't know a single guy who would get as excited over a baby's cradle and the clothes are definitely girl's clothing.
People who always assume others are lying are usually liars themselves and just projecting what they would do.
People who always assume others are lying are usually liars themselves and just projecting what they would do.
I think there are more people reading your blog than you know :) I'm one of those weird people from the US, and I personally enjoy reading your comments.
I also think it's very cool that you are learning to be a computer engineer; I enjoy programming myself, and I'm sure you will enjoy delving deeper into the making of chips etc.
And just a FYI: You're not alone with food issues. I am probably much more picky than you are :-)
-Ben
I also think it's very cool that you are learning to be a computer engineer; I enjoy programming myself, and I'm sure you will enjoy delving deeper into the making of chips etc.
And just a FYI: You're not alone with food issues. I am probably much more picky than you are :-)
-Ben
And in response to previous comments, perhaps innocent until proven guilty is a good motto? I have seen nothing to suggest anything other than what Najma has written here.
Those who pretend stand out like a sore thumb in a crowd. They're easy to see, because the quality of their comments approach those of lewdness or other male directed comments. Usually they want to "have fun" or joke around with the men reading the blog.
A girl such as Najma is easy to identify by the innocence and frankness in her writing, as well as what she writes about. If this was my blog I would take offense, since it would nearly be calling me a liar. So if you please, be respectful my friend, and don't post an unfounded accusation.
- Ben
Those who pretend stand out like a sore thumb in a crowd. They're easy to see, because the quality of their comments approach those of lewdness or other male directed comments. Usually they want to "have fun" or joke around with the men reading the blog.
A girl such as Najma is easy to identify by the innocence and frankness in her writing, as well as what she writes about. If this was my blog I would take offense, since it would nearly be calling me a liar. So if you please, be respectful my friend, and don't post an unfounded accusation.
- Ben
Where did she learned such English in Iraq in her age ??
2004-16=1988 embargo years
there are a few links in sidebar for some iraqi girls about her age, take a look at their English they have the same education as hers.
2004-16=1988 embargo years
there are a few links in sidebar for some iraqi girls about her age, take a look at their English they have the same education as hers.
Whoever Najma is, I like the writing, and I appreciate the thoughts! Also sent an e-mail, I have been known to be computer-challenged so excuse the past quietness ;-)
I do not know Arabic as a speaking language. I only know a few words and that is only from hearing or seeing them used. When you post your blog, be assured that many many people from all over the world are reading and wanting more. There are people who want to help you and your family in so many ways. But we can't. At least not right now. You must not give up your blogging. Especially now. When you go to Baghdad please take as many photos as you can and please remember everything that you see and hear so that you can tell us all about it when you get back home. You are our eyes and ears. We believe you and trust you. Stay well and be safe and careful. Your friend in Denver Colorado USA
hey there, i love your blog and enjoy your photos so much!! especially the ones of your ancient ruins and also of everyday life. what i hope most to gain from all the iraqi blogs is a glimpse into iraqi life, just the usual day, the ordinary stuff. i want to get the know the people of iraq. amaseganallo! much love------------akkadia
Hi genius,
I didn't expect Najma to be your real name. You have the right to protect yourself from any harm. It's the right thing to do even if you weren't living in Iraq.
I hope you win the Nobel Prize one day. That will be great for Iraq.
Enjoy your trip to Baghdad and stay safe all the time.
Please, ask your cousin "Life in Baghdad" to blog more often. I like his blog and check it almost everyday.
I didn't expect Najma to be your real name. You have the right to protect yourself from any harm. It's the right thing to do even if you weren't living in Iraq.
I hope you win the Nobel Prize one day. That will be great for Iraq.
Enjoy your trip to Baghdad and stay safe all the time.
Please, ask your cousin "Life in Baghdad" to blog more often. I like his blog and check it almost everyday.
hi najma i love your blog very much i visit it each day to see your words i love you dear.
your cousin raghda
your cousin raghda
This post has been removed by a blog administrator.
Hey, what's up? My name is ilasiea or you could call me Lae Lae. I think you are real interesting. I'd love to know more about you! I'm real good in school and good with computers too! Just in case, my email address is ilasiea@hotmail.com You should email me sometime!
~Peace~
~Peace~
Dear Najma,
You said in your profile:
I become really depressed when I open my e-mail and find it empty, I start asking myself, what did I do wrong? Is there anything that I can do? When I first started blogging, I used to read comments from Latif a boy from Morocco, he used to comment a lot but suddenly he disappeared, not only him, fletch and Ann disappeared too, and many others. Why? I don't know.
Don’t fret if no one is writing to you. I will write to you if no one else does. You are not doing anything wrong. Your blog is a most refreshing blog.
I enjoy your blog very much and it is the first blog I read when I sit down to read Iraqi blogs.
I open your blog every day because I know you will have something new in it for me to read.
I very much like the variety of subjects that you talk about; from babies to flags to school yards to mountains. I think that it is this variety, plus your innocence as a child of sixteen, (who can only see the bright side of life) that makes your blog so elating to read. The other blogs, because of the subjects they address, make me feel very depressed every time I read them.
I enjoy your blog even more if you have included photos in it. If no one has told you so yet, then I will tell you so. You have a natural talent for composing photos. Your photos -regardless of subject-, are a joy to look at. With a little bit of coaching and more practice you can produce notable works of art.
As for your English, that is impeccable too. I don’t know how you managed to learn so good an English in Iraq. That is still a mystery to me! You know the language much better than those who are teaching you English! I hope that by further reading of books and newspapers in English and by listening to English radio and TV programs on the internet you can further improve on what you have now. Not that you need it, mind you. I have yet to find one spelling mistake in your blog.
Good luck with your blog and keep blogging.
Sam
You said in your profile:
I become really depressed when I open my e-mail and find it empty, I start asking myself, what did I do wrong? Is there anything that I can do? When I first started blogging, I used to read comments from Latif a boy from Morocco, he used to comment a lot but suddenly he disappeared, not only him, fletch and Ann disappeared too, and many others. Why? I don't know.
Don’t fret if no one is writing to you. I will write to you if no one else does. You are not doing anything wrong. Your blog is a most refreshing blog.
I enjoy your blog very much and it is the first blog I read when I sit down to read Iraqi blogs.
I open your blog every day because I know you will have something new in it for me to read.
I very much like the variety of subjects that you talk about; from babies to flags to school yards to mountains. I think that it is this variety, plus your innocence as a child of sixteen, (who can only see the bright side of life) that makes your blog so elating to read. The other blogs, because of the subjects they address, make me feel very depressed every time I read them.
I enjoy your blog even more if you have included photos in it. If no one has told you so yet, then I will tell you so. You have a natural talent for composing photos. Your photos -regardless of subject-, are a joy to look at. With a little bit of coaching and more practice you can produce notable works of art.
As for your English, that is impeccable too. I don’t know how you managed to learn so good an English in Iraq. That is still a mystery to me! You know the language much better than those who are teaching you English! I hope that by further reading of books and newspapers in English and by listening to English radio and TV programs on the internet you can further improve on what you have now. Not that you need it, mind you. I have yet to find one spelling mistake in your blog.
Good luck with your blog and keep blogging.
Sam
Salaam Najma,
Your blog is great fun to read. I wish you the best in everything.
Sara
Your blog is great fun to read. I wish you the best in everything.
Sara
Dear all,
To make a long story short, I am "Najma's" uncle. She 'is' 16 and she 'is' a girl. She is one of the brightest in the family and when she has come to Baghdad to visit us, she brought with her a book about English Grammer and Composition. That's why her English is so great.
If you lived in Iraq, you would know why she chose not to give her true name.
I hope that this will end the debate about this subject. But if you are the type who keeps doubting people, then you will not beleive this comment either. So it's up to you.
If you want one more reason why her English is so great for someone her age: Well, that's because I am her uncle :D
To make a long story short, I am "Najma's" uncle. She 'is' 16 and she 'is' a girl. She is one of the brightest in the family and when she has come to Baghdad to visit us, she brought with her a book about English Grammer and Composition. That's why her English is so great.
If you lived in Iraq, you would know why she chose not to give her true name.
I hope that this will end the debate about this subject. But if you are the type who keeps doubting people, then you will not beleive this comment either. So it's up to you.
If you want one more reason why her English is so great for someone her age: Well, that's because I am her uncle :D
This post has been removed by a blog administrator.
Very Good Najmah
but dont ever tell your name as I told you.
as the poeple said you're they future of Iraq.
why did you stop emailing me.lol
but dont ever tell your name as I told you.
as the poeple said you're they future of Iraq.
why did you stop emailing me.lol
Assalaamoualaikoum
You have really impressed me and you are indeed going to be an asset to the new Iraq. Do not worry, I'll keep visiting and I still owe you something (which I will deliver soon). Unfortunately I cannot post regularly because of my work. Anyway Ahmed, your uncle, is a great English teacher.
You have really impressed me and you are indeed going to be an asset to the new Iraq. Do not worry, I'll keep visiting and I still owe you something (which I will deliver soon). Unfortunately I cannot post regularly because of my work. Anyway Ahmed, your uncle, is a great English teacher.
(I deleted the other entry by mistake because I couldn't resist pressing the little trashcan, except that I didn't realize it was a trashcan before I pressed it..::lol-ing at myself::)
Salamz Najma!
I am another of your 'ghost' readers and I check your blog practically daily, sometimes even twice a day. But so far I haven't commented because I've been having internet difficulties, etc., and sometimes, I really don't have a comment.
You are quite a genius, masha-Allah, so I guess it's no big surprise that you are so good at English (although I still can't write decent sentences in Arabic, despite having studied it ever since I started kindergarten). But then again, as I've just found out, your uncle must must be one good teacher.
You seem to be quite eager to improve your English, and blogging can help you. I think one thing that can be helpful is running your blog entries through a spell and grammar check (like in MS Word) before you put it up online. And it's always convenient for removing those annoying typos.
I hope you enjoy ('enjoyed' I should say, since you'll be reading this after you come back, insha-Allah) your stay in Baghdad.
(Btw, I do have blog, but it's not publicly displayed, so if you want, you can read it at www.my-legacy.blogspot.com).
Salamz Najma!
I am another of your 'ghost' readers and I check your blog practically daily, sometimes even twice a day. But so far I haven't commented because I've been having internet difficulties, etc., and sometimes, I really don't have a comment.
You are quite a genius, masha-Allah, so I guess it's no big surprise that you are so good at English (although I still can't write decent sentences in Arabic, despite having studied it ever since I started kindergarten). But then again, as I've just found out, your uncle must must be one good teacher.
You seem to be quite eager to improve your English, and blogging can help you. I think one thing that can be helpful is running your blog entries through a spell and grammar check (like in MS Word) before you put it up online. And it's always convenient for removing those annoying typos.
I hope you enjoy ('enjoyed' I should say, since you'll be reading this after you come back, insha-Allah) your stay in Baghdad.
(Btw, I do have blog, but it's not publicly displayed, so if you want, you can read it at www.my-legacy.blogspot.com).
Why it smells like rotten fish here????
Good Morning Najma,
While reading comments to your blog, I noticed your
Uncle Ahmed coming to your aid. Thats great.
I also have a neice and I often take her and my great nephew out to Dinner. It's a lot of fun to be a Uncle.
When you said your fussie about food, what kind of food do you prefer. How about a picture of your dinner table. It would be great to see your family setting around the table but probable not safe at this time. For now we will have to imagine.(One big happy family)
Keep safe and be all you can be.
Don from Dallas
While reading comments to your blog, I noticed your
Uncle Ahmed coming to your aid. Thats great.
I also have a neice and I often take her and my great nephew out to Dinner. It's a lot of fun to be a Uncle.
When you said your fussie about food, what kind of food do you prefer. How about a picture of your dinner table. It would be great to see your family setting around the table but probable not safe at this time. For now we will have to imagine.(One big happy family)
Keep safe and be all you can be.
Don from Dallas
Hi again "Najma",
I always enjoy your posts. Your comment on the Shakespear quote reminded me of something I recently heard at the eulogy (part of our funerals if you are not familiar) of my wife's great-uncle. To him, the year he was born and the year he died weren't so important to him. What was important is the dash in between the numbers. It stands for all you have accomplished while you are alive. It sounds like you want to make a difference in this world. Just by creating this blog you have made a start. You are a positive voice where there are few. Keep up the fine work. May God bless you.
I always enjoy your posts. Your comment on the Shakespear quote reminded me of something I recently heard at the eulogy (part of our funerals if you are not familiar) of my wife's great-uncle. To him, the year he was born and the year he died weren't so important to him. What was important is the dash in between the numbers. It stands for all you have accomplished while you are alive. It sounds like you want to make a difference in this world. Just by creating this blog you have made a start. You are a positive voice where there are few. Keep up the fine work. May God bless you.
As Salaamu Alaikum young sister. I have visited your blog from time to time and everytime I am amazed by your maturity and eloquence. The frankness of your posts and the purity and clarity of your point of view is startling. Young sister I wish you the most of success and happiness in your life, and I am sorry to read that the actions of our arrogant leader has disrupted your life and studies so much...you are certainly a brave young woman.
Dear Najma,
Post as soon as you get back, I can't wait to hear how you liked your trip!
- Ben
Post as soon as you get back, I can't wait to hear how you liked your trip!
- Ben
Hi Najma,
I agree with Fayrouz - you are a genius!
Have a safe trip. We'll all miss you while you are gone. :)
-Jen
I agree with Fayrouz - you are a genius!
Have a safe trip. We'll all miss you while you are gone. :)
-Jen
najma is my cousin and she is a girl and be all sure that she is the best girl of english language a never see.
you are the best najma
maa ul salama
raghda
you are the best najma
maa ul salama
raghda
I enjoy your blog very much. Please do not be discouraged if there are not always alot of comments posted. We are out here ...sometimes just lurking in the blogosphere. It is refreshing to hear someone so young be so ambitious. My nieces were always more interested in parties and boys. I am sorry you have to miss a little of what should be a fun time in your life, because of the war. My best wishes to you for a brighter and safer future.
Lynnette in Minnesota
Lynnette in Minnesota
Najma,
Little sis, Insha Allah you will return safe home. Keep on blogging. I hope you post a lot of pictures.
Take care,
Yasmin
Little sis, Insha Allah you will return safe home. Keep on blogging. I hope you post a lot of pictures.
Take care,
Yasmin
Hi Najma,
What is there to say except that you seem to be an exceptionally bright young lady. I'm quite sure that there are numerous people who read your blog (like me) but don't comment (we're called "lurkers"). And I don't doubt for one second that you are indeed a 16 yr old female star from Mosul. What I love about your blog is the pictures and how open you are about your personal life. It gives us such a rare glimpse into an Iraqi teenagers life. I'm just sorry things couldn't be more normal for you. I wish you all the best and look forward to reading you time and again.
Lydia
What is there to say except that you seem to be an exceptionally bright young lady. I'm quite sure that there are numerous people who read your blog (like me) but don't comment (we're called "lurkers"). And I don't doubt for one second that you are indeed a 16 yr old female star from Mosul. What I love about your blog is the pictures and how open you are about your personal life. It gives us such a rare glimpse into an Iraqi teenagers life. I'm just sorry things couldn't be more normal for you. I wish you all the best and look forward to reading you time and again.
Lydia
I'm so glad you don't release your name. WHen I first started reading your blog I was worried that you were using your real name. Thankfully you aren't!
Maybe in a few years you may come out of your shell and use your real name as I do. That day will come, I just know it.
Until then, stay safe.
Maybe in a few years you may come out of your shell and use your real name as I do. That day will come, I just know it.
Until then, stay safe.
Najma,
Only just found your blog, but it's definitely going into my favorites. Keep up the good work!
Mike
New York State, USA
Only just found your blog, but it's definitely going into my favorites. Keep up the good work!
Mike
New York State, USA
Definitely a girl.
Can't be a boy. fascinating blog.
thnaks
Can't be a boy. fascinating blog.
thnaks
Hey..a really good stuff..keep posting...
Hi Najma - This is my first visit to your blog. I've browsed through most of the pages, and upon coming to your 'About Me' I must stop and post my first comment (the operative word here is 'first' since you clearly ask us to send many).
But I'll make this first comment brief:
I like you a lot, too!
But I'll make this first comment brief:
I like you a lot, too!
Najma, does being an assistant to your computer teacher pay anthing? I just found your blog so please keep writing and I'll do what I can to spread the word about your site.
I guess you're convinced that I'm a girl after my uncle "Ahmed" and my cousin "Raghda" told you so.
Why would I ever lie about my age or for being a girl or a boy, I don't know.
Ny way,
-Scott, thanks, you keep reading, I'll keep posting.
-James, Ben, 5280Katie, akkadia, Lae Lae, Sara, Mike, Mr.Iman,Jen, Lynnette, Yasmin, Lydia, Rob, Mike, Azeem, deservebeforeyoudesire, Nas thanks.
-Yojimbo, Thank you, I'll try to post all the pictures i've seen, but gradually, coz i don't want the site to slow down..
- Hi Fayrouz, thanks for supporting me, and thanks for your new blog It's great, especially the short posts. About uncle Ahmed, he's always busy, he can't post too much because of his work, and appearantly, he likes very long posts.
-Sam, Thank you very much for caring, for reading, for supporting, and for being you.
-Nabil, We won, hey. Check your e-mail.
-Faisal, thanks. But my uncle is not my teacher. If he is, then you're my teacher too, he helps me lots of times, and you help me too.
- Essence, you're so funny, thanks. I do use spelling-checker sometimes, it's really a great help.
- Don, I'll give you some examples. I don't eat tomatoes, carrot, oops, there's so many food I don't know its meaning in English, but I'll try, I don't eat any fruit or vegetables that are used to make other food. I don't like rise but it's a very popular meal in Iraq, so I have to eat it sometimes. I don't eat grape, I hate eggplant.... and so on. the other meals are purely arabian, I can't find there translations in English.
Finally, i'm not my uncle's assistant.
Bye
Why would I ever lie about my age or for being a girl or a boy, I don't know.
Ny way,
-Scott, thanks, you keep reading, I'll keep posting.
-James, Ben, 5280Katie, akkadia, Lae Lae, Sara, Mike, Mr.Iman,Jen, Lynnette, Yasmin, Lydia, Rob, Mike, Azeem, deservebeforeyoudesire, Nas thanks.
-Yojimbo, Thank you, I'll try to post all the pictures i've seen, but gradually, coz i don't want the site to slow down..
- Hi Fayrouz, thanks for supporting me, and thanks for your new blog It's great, especially the short posts. About uncle Ahmed, he's always busy, he can't post too much because of his work, and appearantly, he likes very long posts.
-Sam, Thank you very much for caring, for reading, for supporting, and for being you.
-Nabil, We won, hey. Check your e-mail.
-Faisal, thanks. But my uncle is not my teacher. If he is, then you're my teacher too, he helps me lots of times, and you help me too.
- Essence, you're so funny, thanks. I do use spelling-checker sometimes, it's really a great help.
- Don, I'll give you some examples. I don't eat tomatoes, carrot, oops, there's so many food I don't know its meaning in English, but I'll try, I don't eat any fruit or vegetables that are used to make other food. I don't like rise but it's a very popular meal in Iraq, so I have to eat it sometimes. I don't eat grape, I hate eggplant.... and so on. the other meals are purely arabian, I can't find there translations in English.
Finally, i'm not my uncle's assistant.
Bye
Najma,
Check this website for help with translation:
http://english.ajeeb.com/
Check this website for help with translation:
http://english.ajeeb.com/
Hi Fayrouz, What a coincidence, I already use this one. But for example, I didn't find ( Filleflah, biryany, maraka, fareed, timman ahmar), nobody will understand those..
Oops, there's really a war near our house, lots and lots of bullets. I think one went into my room or into the living-room. So bye...
Oops, there's really a war near our house, lots and lots of bullets. I think one went into my room or into the living-room. So bye...
Not everything is translatable into english, so posting the phonetic (how it sounds) spelling is as close as you can get. If you can't find it, post it anyway! :) I think I recognize fillaflah, which for some reason is spelled felafel or falafel here (ground vegetable balls fried in a pan). I'm just wondering, what do you guys put in your fillaflah/felafels?
- Ben
- Ben
Be careful with those bullets.
- Ben
- Ben
Ben, I'll talk to you about the falafel later, it's not the same as filleflah. filleflah is a kind of vegtable, green, circled, almost empty from the inside.
The bullet is a long story, i'm writing a post about it right now..
The bullet is a long story, i'm writing a post about it right now..
Salaam Najma
Is biryani a kind of dish with rice because we have this in Mauritius too.
Is biryani a kind of dish with rice because we have this in Mauritius too.
Faisal, Biryani is a dish with rice and some other things over it. It might look the same in Iraq and in your country.
Hi Najma,
I hope you're a girl, 'cause I think I'm in love with you, you're so sweet. But I'm just curious why you wrote:
many other Iraqis live because they have to,
they study, finish school, go to any collage
they can go to, get married to the first
woman they meet, have children, raise them to
be like them, die and good bye
Why would a girl write something like "get married to the first woman they meet"?
I'm not trying to mallign you or anything, or blow your cover if you're just trying to further disguise your identity. I just like a good mystery and I can't help myself.
BTW, what foods do you like?
Also, I have a blog also, in case you're interested, although I don't post nearly as often as you do. It's at "http://homogenouspizza.blogspot.com/". I'm sure you won't have time to look at it because you'll be too busy reading your comments now that Zeyad linked to you (which is how I found you).
Anyway, I love your blog.
LeRoy
I hope you're a girl, 'cause I think I'm in love with you, you're so sweet. But I'm just curious why you wrote:
many other Iraqis live because they have to,
they study, finish school, go to any collage
they can go to, get married to the first
woman they meet, have children, raise them to
be like them, die and good bye
Why would a girl write something like "get married to the first woman they meet"?
I'm not trying to mallign you or anything, or blow your cover if you're just trying to further disguise your identity. I just like a good mystery and I can't help myself.
BTW, what foods do you like?
Also, I have a blog also, in case you're interested, although I don't post nearly as often as you do. It's at "http://homogenouspizza.blogspot.com/". I'm sure you won't have time to look at it because you'll be too busy reading your comments now that Zeyad linked to you (which is how I found you).
Anyway, I love your blog.
LeRoy
Dear Najma,
Is it possible that the vegetable filleflah is the same or related to the vegetable we call 'okra'? (This is my husband's favorite vegetable.)
I couldn't find any pictures of the vegetable itself, but here's some info.
http://www.physiology.wisc.edu/ravi/okra/
If not okra, it might be a type of 'squash'.
Okra is tube-like and ridged. The fruit itself is soft enough to crush with your fingers and each fruit is roughly the size and shape of a human finger.
Squash is a gourd-like fruit with a very hard shell, then a layer of 'meat' (edible fruit) and hollow inside with just seeds and wettish filaments hanging loosely in the hollow space.
Any of that sound recognizable?
Anyway, as has been asked, what *do* you like to eat?
As for your blog, it's a jewel. It sparkles.
Is it possible that the vegetable filleflah is the same or related to the vegetable we call 'okra'? (This is my husband's favorite vegetable.)
I couldn't find any pictures of the vegetable itself, but here's some info.
http://www.physiology.wisc.edu/ravi/okra/
If not okra, it might be a type of 'squash'.
Okra is tube-like and ridged. The fruit itself is soft enough to crush with your fingers and each fruit is roughly the size and shape of a human finger.
Squash is a gourd-like fruit with a very hard shell, then a layer of 'meat' (edible fruit) and hollow inside with just seeds and wettish filaments hanging loosely in the hollow space.
Any of that sound recognizable?
Anyway, as has been asked, what *do* you like to eat?
As for your blog, it's a jewel. It sparkles.
We are sad here that John Kerry lost the election for President. I think he would have been better for the Iraq people. Many americans feel it was wrong to invade your country. However, we hope that we prevail, but I have my doubts. The insurgents are as brutal as the former dictator
I wish you well and your words are most interesting. your life is so different than ours over here. May peace find its way to you soon.
a friend in the US-112
I wish you well and your words are most interesting. your life is so different than ours over here. May peace find its way to you soon.
a friend in the US-112
I'm a bit of a sceptic sometimes, but is it really possible to blog from Mosul? Is there regular electricity & net access to the point a young girl can blog regularly?
Also, there is a detectable inconsistancy in this person's use of English. Sometimes they use odd syntax forms and other times they write fluently. The odd syntax seems contrived to me, and not the natural misuse of words by someone who speaks English as a 2nd language.
There is more hoaxing going on in the internet than people seem to realize, and running a popular web-forum I've found that when something seems fishy it usually is- never underestimate the deviousness of people on the net. Since this 'girl' uses a blogger account instead of her own domain it's hard to actually trace her. Has she posted comments on anyone's blog? Can you see the IP and trace it to see if she's actually in Iraq?
I tend to not take things at face value on the net. Hell, 60% of the people claiming to be women are actually guys, its not a stretch to think this person is not who they claim to be. If things are so chaotic as this post claims I find it hard to believe this person is able to regularly run a webblog. I'd guess you'd actually be spending most of your time just staying alive.
Also, there is a detectable inconsistancy in this person's use of English. Sometimes they use odd syntax forms and other times they write fluently. The odd syntax seems contrived to me, and not the natural misuse of words by someone who speaks English as a 2nd language.
There is more hoaxing going on in the internet than people seem to realize, and running a popular web-forum I've found that when something seems fishy it usually is- never underestimate the deviousness of people on the net. Since this 'girl' uses a blogger account instead of her own domain it's hard to actually trace her. Has she posted comments on anyone's blog? Can you see the IP and trace it to see if she's actually in Iraq?
I tend to not take things at face value on the net. Hell, 60% of the people claiming to be women are actually guys, its not a stretch to think this person is not who they claim to be. If things are so chaotic as this post claims I find it hard to believe this person is able to regularly run a webblog. I'd guess you'd actually be spending most of your time just staying alive.
Najma, I just found your blog this afternoon. I've wanted a 'penpal' in Iraq for a long time - tho I figured it'd be an older Iraqi woman... but that's ok.
I just want to know what it's like there and how your life is. I'm glad you aren't using your real name. Not a good idea. Maybe because of the way life is there right now, maybe because you are young and female. Be safe. Do NOT go out anywhere to meet anyone who emails you (that you don't already know) or tell them your address!
Do a lot of people in Iraq have computers? and internet access? Is it a popular thing to do there? Do your schools use them? It sounded like you don't have a TV - you saw it at your aunt's house.... or was it just that you were there when the governor was on? Do a lot of people have TV's now? Do you have more stations to watch now that Saddam is gone? I'm am very curious (as you can tell) about life in Iraq. Is that baby your sister? I haven't check out all areas of your blog yet.... but the pictures are wonderful! I am looking forward to more pics also!
I hope your life gets better. Does Mosul have constant electricity, water etc?
did it always? even under Saddam? Aren't you glad he is gone? Your lives should be more free in the future. It might be rough right now, but the future should hold a much better life for you and all your family and friends. Are they looking forward to it? We do want our military to come home soom - but only after you all are safe and can protect your own country.
Keep posting. It's good to find out how the young people think of it. You are the future of Iraq !
I just want to know what it's like there and how your life is. I'm glad you aren't using your real name. Not a good idea. Maybe because of the way life is there right now, maybe because you are young and female. Be safe. Do NOT go out anywhere to meet anyone who emails you (that you don't already know) or tell them your address!
Do a lot of people in Iraq have computers? and internet access? Is it a popular thing to do there? Do your schools use them? It sounded like you don't have a TV - you saw it at your aunt's house.... or was it just that you were there when the governor was on? Do a lot of people have TV's now? Do you have more stations to watch now that Saddam is gone? I'm am very curious (as you can tell) about life in Iraq. Is that baby your sister? I haven't check out all areas of your blog yet.... but the pictures are wonderful! I am looking forward to more pics also!
I hope your life gets better. Does Mosul have constant electricity, water etc?
did it always? even under Saddam? Aren't you glad he is gone? Your lives should be more free in the future. It might be rough right now, but the future should hold a much better life for you and all your family and friends. Are they looking forward to it? We do want our military to come home soom - but only after you all are safe and can protect your own country.
Keep posting. It's good to find out how the young people think of it. You are the future of Iraq !
Dear Najama, How are you? I was surprised that you still keep calling Iranians "enemy". The same old slogan that Saddam tutored Iraqis and told them every body is their enemy. Iranians are not your enemy although your relatives may have been killed in Iran- Iraq war. I think you should have known your real enemy by now. Anyways I hope one day we will al wake up and recognize that people are not out there to be our enemy. Saddam managed to make the entire world the enemy of Iraqis. And now that he is gone I cam assure you that that there is no nation on the face of the earth closer than Iranians. That is If another Saddam is not emerged to crated animosity between these two grate nations. Iranians and Iraqis are the same people they have always lived together until the British decided to divide the Muslim world at the turn of the 19th century and called the one portion one portion on the same land Iraq. Before that the same people would travel to Iraq in winter and come back to Iran in summer which was cooler. If you study a little bit of history of even geography you can see the Sasanid capital in Madain which is located in Iraq now.
You have also talked about the problem of few people reading and giving comments in your blog. I think you must use Arabic language for writing your blog and you will get a lot more readers that way. I have a suggestion for you. You may create a blog in Persianblog.com which will enable you to write both in Arabic and English. Try that and good luck to you. I would be glad to here from you.
You have also talked about the problem of few people reading and giving comments in your blog. I think you must use Arabic language for writing your blog and you will get a lot more readers that way. I have a suggestion for you. You may create a blog in Persianblog.com which will enable you to write both in Arabic and English. Try that and good luck to you. I would be glad to here from you.
hi najma,
I hope you are fine,This is my first comment i read your blug and i like it very much and i`m from baquba i`m sure you knew it!!!enery day there a bomb or engagement with the american troops near my house cose my house in the center of the town and u knew it`s diyala,I see in my eyes how two young guys dead when the humvee cross over them.
You have an admirable language and i`m realy very impressed how little iraqi girl do this.
you are the best najma keep going and i`m asking God to safing u
I hope you are fine,This is my first comment i read your blug and i like it very much and i`m from baquba i`m sure you knew it!!!enery day there a bomb or engagement with the american troops near my house cose my house in the center of the town and u knew it`s diyala,I see in my eyes how two young guys dead when the humvee cross over them.
You have an admirable language and i`m realy very impressed how little iraqi girl do this.
you are the best najma keep going and i`m asking God to safing u
Hi Najma,
There is an American-Iraqi Student exchange program at one of the best universities in the US. Here is the link where you can apply. I hope you give it a shot:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/sise/sponsorsadvisors.htm
There is an American-Iraqi Student exchange program at one of the best universities in the US. Here is the link where you can apply. I hope you give it a shot:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/sise/sponsorsadvisors.htm
thank you.
for your lauguage, your frankness, your heart.
nice to know that even on the other side of the world, in a country that has not known peace, one such as you has evolved into something so beautiful.
p.s. please enter a shipping address on your amazon book wish list, if you can:)
for your lauguage, your frankness, your heart.
nice to know that even on the other side of the world, in a country that has not known peace, one such as you has evolved into something so beautiful.
p.s. please enter a shipping address on your amazon book wish list, if you can:)
Hey Najma,
I wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm suspect whether you're story is truthful. You see, I left Iraq only 4 weeks ago where one of my jobs was teaching English, and I can assess I met perhaps one person (out of 100's) who wrote English as well as you, and he was a degreed English instructor who had spent time in England and had taught English for over 30 years (I also helped hire Iraqi English instructors). I did meet a couple younger folks who did pretty well with English (privileged sons and daughters of the well-placed gov't and military workers) because of time in the UK or US, but still nowhere as proficient as you. You're either a linguistic marvel with English, or someone helps edit your work, OR you're not a 16-17 year old Iraqi girl, but someone else trying to milk the moment.
Only you know the truth. If you are truly a 17 year old Iraqi girl, congrats because you have a bright future ahead of you and are truly gifted. If you're not, thanks for providing entertainment for all the suckers out there wanting so badly to believe. After the James Frey incident in the US (look it up on the internet if you need to...I doubt it was news in Iraq), it's too easy to see that people will jump on any opportunity to sell a story or propaganda. And so it goes, unfortunately...
If you are in Iraq and Iraqi, be proud. I met a lot of wonderful people there. Inshallah, there will be peace, despite the extremists, insurgents, idiots, and small-minded, selfish ones (I mean the terrorists AND the Iraqi gov't leaders).
"On the internet, no one knows you're a dog..." but nowadays everyone is suspicious.
I wish I didn't have to say this, but I'm suspect whether you're story is truthful. You see, I left Iraq only 4 weeks ago where one of my jobs was teaching English, and I can assess I met perhaps one person (out of 100's) who wrote English as well as you, and he was a degreed English instructor who had spent time in England and had taught English for over 30 years (I also helped hire Iraqi English instructors). I did meet a couple younger folks who did pretty well with English (privileged sons and daughters of the well-placed gov't and military workers) because of time in the UK or US, but still nowhere as proficient as you. You're either a linguistic marvel with English, or someone helps edit your work, OR you're not a 16-17 year old Iraqi girl, but someone else trying to milk the moment.
Only you know the truth. If you are truly a 17 year old Iraqi girl, congrats because you have a bright future ahead of you and are truly gifted. If you're not, thanks for providing entertainment for all the suckers out there wanting so badly to believe. After the James Frey incident in the US (look it up on the internet if you need to...I doubt it was news in Iraq), it's too easy to see that people will jump on any opportunity to sell a story or propaganda. And so it goes, unfortunately...
If you are in Iraq and Iraqi, be proud. I met a lot of wonderful people there. Inshallah, there will be peace, despite the extremists, insurgents, idiots, and small-minded, selfish ones (I mean the terrorists AND the Iraqi gov't leaders).
"On the internet, no one knows you're a dog..." but nowadays everyone is suspicious.
Buzz,
Well, you're not the first one to suspect I'm an Iraqi because of my English, nor the first to be impressed, but both make me proud. If I am good enough for people to think I'm an American, then I have achieved a goal, and will achieve one more when I can talk like you.
I am not the only one who can write well in English. Check the other Iraqi blogs at http://iraqblogcount.blogspot.com ;
About 90% of the bloggers write even better than I do, I do not know if they have been outside Iraq, but I'm sure not all of them did. All we have here in Iraq now is TV and the Internet, and we are stuck at home for most of the day, both are in English. If you have the ability and desire to learn, you WILL learn.
I would've replied to you in Arabic, but you're a Europian soldier (?) and probably do not know Arabic.
I will one day -if I keep my promise to myself and continue studying French after Finishing school- be able to talk and write French as well as French people do, and might as well learn another language if I had time.. Believe it or not, I'm an Iraqi.
Well, you're not the first one to suspect I'm an Iraqi because of my English, nor the first to be impressed, but both make me proud. If I am good enough for people to think I'm an American, then I have achieved a goal, and will achieve one more when I can talk like you.
I am not the only one who can write well in English. Check the other Iraqi blogs at http://iraqblogcount.blogspot.com ;
About 90% of the bloggers write even better than I do, I do not know if they have been outside Iraq, but I'm sure not all of them did. All we have here in Iraq now is TV and the Internet, and we are stuck at home for most of the day, both are in English. If you have the ability and desire to learn, you WILL learn.
I would've replied to you in Arabic, but you're a Europian soldier (?) and probably do not know Arabic.
I will one day -if I keep my promise to myself and continue studying French after Finishing school- be able to talk and write French as well as French people do, and might as well learn another language if I had time.. Believe it or not, I'm an Iraqi.
Hi Najma,
I would've replied to you in Arabic, but you're a Europian soldier (?) and probably do not know Arabic.
Buzz, according to his profile, is an officer in the US Army. Apparently, his permanent duty station is in Germany, where he's returned to after completing a deployment in Iraq.
Anyway! Your ENglish surprised me a great deal when I first started reading your blog last year. I've run into so many people from the ME who speak perfect or near-perfect english lately, though, that it doesn't anymore :)
I heard Morbid Smile on NPR a coupel weeks ago. She did really well. She has an American accent, which surprised me... I thought Iraqis would be learning "British" english :D
I wonder what Buzz's job is, in the military, where he's working with English language intructors? Possibly training Iraqi soldiers? Hmmm.... no idea, really. Maybe he'll come back and tell us :)
I would've replied to you in Arabic, but you're a Europian soldier (?) and probably do not know Arabic.
Buzz, according to his profile, is an officer in the US Army. Apparently, his permanent duty station is in Germany, where he's returned to after completing a deployment in Iraq.
Anyway! Your ENglish surprised me a great deal when I first started reading your blog last year. I've run into so many people from the ME who speak perfect or near-perfect english lately, though, that it doesn't anymore :)
I heard Morbid Smile on NPR a coupel weeks ago. She did really well. She has an American accent, which surprised me... I thought Iraqis would be learning "British" english :D
I wonder what Buzz's job is, in the military, where he's working with English language intructors? Possibly training Iraqi soldiers? Hmmm.... no idea, really. Maybe he'll come back and tell us :)
Name:
My name is not Najma, and I'm not going to tell you my real name, 'cause I don't want to get killed. I hope that I will one day be able to use my name, since I'm really hating Najma for getting all the credit!
I hope someday you will be able to use your real name as well. I sincerely do. If we have made your lives harder I apologise. Some of us sincerely wanted to help. If there is anything I can do to help, let me know. Congratulations on becoming an aunt =)
I hope some day you do get that nobel prize. Dream that dream and strive hard for it. Your blog has touched me, and I am sad we had to make it worse to make it better for you and all Iraqis. But I do hope we together can make it better. I also do hope that one day Iraq will become the shinning star of peace and liberty with the ability to chase and succeed at your dreams, whatever they may be. I wish you good luck.
an italian guy from
The smokey mountains, usa
My name is not Najma, and I'm not going to tell you my real name, 'cause I don't want to get killed. I hope that I will one day be able to use my name, since I'm really hating Najma for getting all the credit!
I hope someday you will be able to use your real name as well. I sincerely do. If we have made your lives harder I apologise. Some of us sincerely wanted to help. If there is anything I can do to help, let me know. Congratulations on becoming an aunt =)
I hope some day you do get that nobel prize. Dream that dream and strive hard for it. Your blog has touched me, and I am sad we had to make it worse to make it better for you and all Iraqis. But I do hope we together can make it better. I also do hope that one day Iraq will become the shinning star of peace and liberty with the ability to chase and succeed at your dreams, whatever they may be. I wish you good luck.
an italian guy from
The smokey mountains, usa
hiiii
how are you star ?
hope fine.
i saw your blog in google and gor curious and you turned out to be a very cool person and i hope i get to know you better.
yours
muthanna
how are you star ?
hope fine.
i saw your blog in google and gor curious and you turned out to be a very cool person and i hope i get to know you better.
yours
muthanna
I had to laugh when I saw you write: ""That short girl with glasses" is how I think people describe me :)"
That sounds just like me!!! LOL I'm 4 foot 11 inches tall and wear glasses too!
That sounds just like me!!! LOL I'm 4 foot 11 inches tall and wear glasses too!
Aunt Najima,
I'm a Dad. Just like yours. I have two daughters. Just like your Dad. I was a guy who lived the Vietnam experience and hoped to teach my girls right from wrong. Just like your Dad. One got a degree in Chemistry. One got a degree in Criminal Justice Administration. Both from Public Universities. Sound alot like your family? We are. What else do we have in common?
My family is Native American. Generations ago my people were discriminated against and butchered by an unloving government which had intentions for our lands. The Sioux generations which survived became lost in the world of the white man in it's impersonal and souless use of our country. With no focus, the Sioux lost their identity, much in the way of the world of Iraq. And then a funny thing came about. A war brought us together. Yes, a war.
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, black, white, red, yellow and brown Americans came together and fought to overcome an evil never faced before. Together, it was done and we became AMERICANS. Sure, racial inequalities existed then, and to a degree, even now. But, we, the people of the United States are working on it...together. My experience during Vietnam was both bad and good. We helped alot of people then...many of whom now live in the US. I recently saw a building in a news item which I believe we helped build. Very strange experience. Brought back alot of faces in my mind and I smiled alot.
Anyway, the point I am trying to make is that you should try to keep your chin up about the stupid Americans in your country. WE, us, the soldiers/Americans, for the most part, believe in what is being done in Iraq. We believe in those who want peace,prosperity and respect in your land. We believe in a strange hope called democracy where every citizen affects their government each election. And I quote a little known democratic responsibility of every American citizen from our own Declaration of Independence, "But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security." What that "object" could be is not defined, but it has to be, in my opinion, is the evil of money worship. Keep your chin up, Little Aunt. Most of the Americans believe in democracy. We have no use for the "new Guards" here, yet.
Are our families similar? You bet. Here, in America, you could be my neighbor and I wouldn't give it a second thought. Eric, my neighbor on the left is black. Chris, my neighbor on the right is white and we have a Cambodian family across the street. Sorry to say, I don't know their names. You may have neighbors there I may know. Their names are Carrie and Zeta. They are American soldiers. They are my daughters. They are your neighbors in Iraq and they believe in helping you.
So the next time you see an American truck with female soldiers with black hair, dark complexions and almond shaped eyes, think kindly of them for they are the good ones. Blog away, Little Aunt.
Peace be with you,
Hanacana
I'm a Dad. Just like yours. I have two daughters. Just like your Dad. I was a guy who lived the Vietnam experience and hoped to teach my girls right from wrong. Just like your Dad. One got a degree in Chemistry. One got a degree in Criminal Justice Administration. Both from Public Universities. Sound alot like your family? We are. What else do we have in common?
My family is Native American. Generations ago my people were discriminated against and butchered by an unloving government which had intentions for our lands. The Sioux generations which survived became lost in the world of the white man in it's impersonal and souless use of our country. With no focus, the Sioux lost their identity, much in the way of the world of Iraq. And then a funny thing came about. A war brought us together. Yes, a war.
When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, black, white, red, yellow and brown Americans came together and fought to overcome an evil never faced before. Together, it was done and we became AMERICANS. Sure, racial inequalities existed then, and to a degree, even now. But, we, the people of the United States are working on it...together. My experience during Vietnam was both bad and good. We helped alot of people then...many of whom now live in the US. I recently saw a building in a news item which I believe we helped build. Very strange experience. Brought back alot of faces in my mind and I smiled alot.
Anyway, the point I am trying to make is that you should try to keep your chin up about the stupid Americans in your country. WE, us, the soldiers/Americans, for the most part, believe in what is being done in Iraq. We believe in those who want peace,prosperity and respect in your land. We believe in a strange hope called democracy where every citizen affects their government each election. And I quote a little known democratic responsibility of every American citizen from our own Declaration of Independence, "But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security." What that "object" could be is not defined, but it has to be, in my opinion, is the evil of money worship. Keep your chin up, Little Aunt. Most of the Americans believe in democracy. We have no use for the "new Guards" here, yet.
Are our families similar? You bet. Here, in America, you could be my neighbor and I wouldn't give it a second thought. Eric, my neighbor on the left is black. Chris, my neighbor on the right is white and we have a Cambodian family across the street. Sorry to say, I don't know their names. You may have neighbors there I may know. Their names are Carrie and Zeta. They are American soldiers. They are my daughters. They are your neighbors in Iraq and they believe in helping you.
So the next time you see an American truck with female soldiers with black hair, dark complexions and almond shaped eyes, think kindly of them for they are the good ones. Blog away, Little Aunt.
Peace be with you,
Hanacana
Najma, Can you contact me via e mail, I want to talk to you, I am feeling something strange in your blog, a citizen of Mosul 18 years can write an English better than Americans???
Tell me who you are and if you are really from Mosul then I am your Mosulawi friend so I am waiting for your reply.
Drmichael
ratrush@luc.edu
Tell me who you are and if you are really from Mosul then I am your Mosulawi friend so I am waiting for your reply.
Drmichael
ratrush@luc.edu
Najma, I drop into your blog once in a while. Funny, I never doubted your nationality. Mash'allah your English is excellent.
I've lived in the M.E. for over 20 years, and I know for a FACT the standard of education is great. As a mother of half Arab children, I know this well. We also lived through a war, and wars do stop your life, make you focus on what's important. Education.
Despite going to Arabic schools with limited English, my children speak, read and write both fluently. Also, one majored in French, and all speak some Spanish.They score high on world geography, and the sciences. Common here.
Outside entertainment comes after studies over here. Your English is great, and you have proven what others have: the Arab world is very internationally educated.
Keep up your blog, you are an inspiration to all Iraqis!
I've lived in the M.E. for over 20 years, and I know for a FACT the standard of education is great. As a mother of half Arab children, I know this well. We also lived through a war, and wars do stop your life, make you focus on what's important. Education.
Despite going to Arabic schools with limited English, my children speak, read and write both fluently. Also, one majored in French, and all speak some Spanish.They score high on world geography, and the sciences. Common here.
Outside entertainment comes after studies over here. Your English is great, and you have proven what others have: the Arab world is very internationally educated.
Keep up your blog, you are an inspiration to all Iraqis!
Hey, you speak great English, "Nasjma". Do you also IM or just blog?
I am a Romanian studying in Dallas, TX. I am interested in the lifestyle of your town and would like to chat with you sometime, if you have the time.
Take care,
Mihai
(myhayk at gmail dot com)
I am a Romanian studying in Dallas, TX. I am interested in the lifestyle of your town and would like to chat with you sometime, if you have the time.
Take care,
Mihai
(myhayk at gmail dot com)
Thank you so much for this blog, please keep it up.
It's unbelievable how connected we are today, I'm writing from Montreal, Canada, where I'm studying Middle East Politics.
Once again, thank you.
It's unbelievable how connected we are today, I'm writing from Montreal, Canada, where I'm studying Middle East Politics.
Once again, thank you.
hi , i just read your blog .i am very proud of you . i myself graduated from alfitowa primary school in 1972 . In 1988 I graduated from a univeristy in the U.S.A with a degree in industrial engineering and currently live in mosul . god bless you. keep up blogging . salam
WOW,at first, overtake my poorly structured language and let me (ATLAWAG) to you,seriously,really and by all means of ensuring ,you are a gem in this country not as an english speaker but believe me i've never see or know any one like you specially at your age,you made me proud of my (maslawi) blood from my mother side, please i am accelerated for talking with you this is my e-mail(choosenheart5@yahoo.com) i will never leave you alone ,you are like a shooting star that came once in a life time.till next time .
hey Najima
How are you?
saw you notes on your log. I have some important questions for you about live for you and your family in iraq and mosul
kan you email me @ smoestie@hotmail.com
hope to hear from you!
How are you?
saw you notes on your log. I have some important questions for you about live for you and your family in iraq and mosul
kan you email me @ smoestie@hotmail.com
hope to hear from you!
hey .. what's up girl ??
u r really cooooool girl . u have os ability ( ma sha2 alla ) . Im very proud of u atridute me like "moslawia ( mosulya )..
okey .. I'd like to know more about u .but I can't put my e-mail here .. u know am a girl *-*. anyway,
am so glad to see a web site from my hometown . and it's over than wonerful .
My God bless u sis .
best regards ,,
Rahma moh.
sharja - uae
u r really cooooool girl . u have os ability ( ma sha2 alla ) . Im very proud of u atridute me like "moslawia ( mosulya )..
okey .. I'd like to know more about u .but I can't put my e-mail here .. u know am a girl *-*. anyway,
am so glad to see a web site from my hometown . and it's over than wonerful .
My God bless u sis .
best regards ,,
Rahma moh.
sharja - uae
Marhaba, Najmeh,
Marhaba, Other Futuwah Al-Namoodhajiya School graduates.
My Name is Emad and I live in USA. I radutaed from Futuwah School in 1977. University of Mosul/College of Engineering/Civil in 1987. My email is emadca1965@yahoo.com.
Looking to connect with other Futuwah and University of Mosul Graduates.
Marhaba, Other Futuwah Al-Namoodhajiya School graduates.
My Name is Emad and I live in USA. I radutaed from Futuwah School in 1977. University of Mosul/College of Engineering/Civil in 1987. My email is emadca1965@yahoo.com.
Looking to connect with other Futuwah and University of Mosul Graduates.
Hi Najma
i am very proud of you because ..first u are genius..&
second.. you are one of my classmate in communication engineering first year ..i surprised when i read your comments because i never seen genius like u in my life ...i am sorry if i behaved any behave disturb u in the past
i am very proud of you because ..first u are genius..&
second.. you are one of my classmate in communication engineering first year ..i surprised when i read your comments because i never seen genius like u in my life ...i am sorry if i behaved any behave disturb u in the past
hello nAJMA...
wonder why u don like ur beautiful name,which carries the scent of baghdad...?
keep on updatin ur blog...it's like a small window 4 sm ppl who live n this city but ,don have access 2 it ..can actually SEE it,through ur eyes...
bless u.
aj
wonder why u don like ur beautiful name,which carries the scent of baghdad...?
keep on updatin ur blog...it's like a small window 4 sm ppl who live n this city but ,don have access 2 it ..can actually SEE it,through ur eyes...
bless u.
aj
Hii Najwa,
Happy Ramadhan..bye
Happy Ramadhan..bye
Well, I think you are pretty cool. I am an American who serves in our Air Force. I am a father of two children and a full time college student as well. I am glad that you have found time to write. You accomplish it quite well. If you still need memory for your laptop let me know. I have a few extra sticks laying around. I am majoring in IT management and enjoy tinkering with electronics and computers. email me at jeff at themccrady dot com
Hi Najma!!. I was born in Mosul and lived in Baghdad most of my life. Me and my parents are from lebanon though!. I left iraq after the invasion. living in Canada currently and studying Electrical Engineering at the best university in North America. I coincedently came across your blog. I'm looking forward to connect with Bloggers from mosul or baghdad. Nice work and impressive proper english. keep the good work.
if you need any software product or help then give me a nudge:D
ahmadelina@msn.com
if you need any software product or help then give me a nudge:D
ahmadelina@msn.com
Hi Najma,
Nice blog.. You write beautifully.
I was born in Mosul, I spend the first 13 years of my life there. I left with my family in 92. Tonight I was laying in bed feeling completely lost and down, when old sun-burnt pictures of my primary school formed in my head. All the kids were running happily in the playground during break. there was chaotic shouting and laughter. Then i thought how nice it would be to stand there now, to be once again at your roots. There is something very deep that connects people to the places they grew up in. They become part of you. For me Mosul is that deep hidden part. In the mids of my day dreaming I found your blog.
So thank you for your blog..I hope one day kids will grow in a more peaceful Iraq and they'll run around like mad, not out of fear, just because they are playing mikhtabooya.
Nice blog.. You write beautifully.
I was born in Mosul, I spend the first 13 years of my life there. I left with my family in 92. Tonight I was laying in bed feeling completely lost and down, when old sun-burnt pictures of my primary school formed in my head. All the kids were running happily in the playground during break. there was chaotic shouting and laughter. Then i thought how nice it would be to stand there now, to be once again at your roots. There is something very deep that connects people to the places they grew up in. They become part of you. For me Mosul is that deep hidden part. In the mids of my day dreaming I found your blog.
So thank you for your blog..I hope one day kids will grow in a more peaceful Iraq and they'll run around like mad, not out of fear, just because they are playing mikhtabooya.
hello najma
in the beginning i want to tell you that i am very interesting of your thoughts .i read many of your comments and i really like it.you have a great english languge which makes me understand every word you wrote. now i am reading a book "easy to learn" just to be better in english .
the second thing i want tell you that i was in al fotowa primary school.i have a great memories of it but i can't remember it very well. i can remember a few number of my teachers "sit noor in the 1st class","sit sabah " , "sit nawal",and another. it was a happy days. now i am in the university of mosul, studying mechanical engineering, the college that i love.-bedoon zahma- i want ask you about your language, how did you learn english, i want to learn it like you.
best wishes
in the beginning i want to tell you that i am very interesting of your thoughts .i read many of your comments and i really like it.you have a great english languge which makes me understand every word you wrote. now i am reading a book "easy to learn" just to be better in english .
the second thing i want tell you that i was in al fotowa primary school.i have a great memories of it but i can't remember it very well. i can remember a few number of my teachers "sit noor in the 1st class","sit sabah " , "sit nawal",and another. it was a happy days. now i am in the university of mosul, studying mechanical engineering, the college that i love.-bedoon zahma- i want ask you about your language, how did you learn english, i want to learn it like you.
best wishes
I found your blog through Sunshine's you both do an excellent job of conveying how things really are there. Anyone with half a brain knows that you must protect your privacy and the safety of your families.
The media has twisted much of what goes on there. I am friends with those who have served multiple tours fixing water treatment, power grids and schools ony to have them bombed or damaged further by insurgents.
The average American is really hoping for a peaceful Iraq that you may again play and learn in ways that your memories cherish.
If only terrorists could get their messages across without the IEDs and kidnapping of innocents Iraqis.
I'm relieved to see that "EID" was celebrated as it should be.
The media has twisted much of what goes on there. I am friends with those who have served multiple tours fixing water treatment, power grids and schools ony to have them bombed or damaged further by insurgents.
The average American is really hoping for a peaceful Iraq that you may again play and learn in ways that your memories cherish.
If only terrorists could get their messages across without the IEDs and kidnapping of innocents Iraqis.
I'm relieved to see that "EID" was celebrated as it should be.
So here's a bit of perspective for the nay-sayers and self-styled "sceptics" of this blog. I have seen a number of accusations and criticisms thrown rather recklessly by some in their comments here. First let me address what bothers me most.
As to the gender/age/feasibility argument that seems to pop up with fair regularity; here's a thought, could it be that a person who lives in an urban warzone wherein the conflict is fluid, unpredictable and mobile might want to protect themselves a little? Wait, you're right, that's too obvious and pedestrian an argument. Instead let me pose this question. Does it truly matter? The blogosphere is a fluid, end-user defined medium for the communication of opinion and experience. On the experience level you take what you read as obviously unverifiable at the very least. This is journaling not journalism and applying journalistic skepticism is a fool's errand. Read these blogs with the assumption that the writer has a good intention and is reasonably capable of relaying the facts of their lives as they see fit. What reason is there to lie in a forum that neither encourages nor provides profit for a liar. This writing is passionate, well executed and positive in a circumstance most of us can't begin to comprehend. To criticize from a condescending position when you lack any kind of organic frame of reference says a lot more about your need to be heard than it does the intelligence and appropriate nature of your critique. Get your own blog and comment on journalistic integrity and the need for more of it in blogging instead of attacking someone who you have no evidence to believe is NOT a teenage girl in Mosul. That said, I don't really care if Najma is a girl, boy, Iraqi or anything other than a gifted author with a brilliant story to tell. Thank you Najma. My next comments will be more directed at you. I just couldn't let that whole questioning your integrity thing go untreated. Keep it up.
-Kurt M. Wisener, Portland, Oregon US
As to the gender/age/feasibility argument that seems to pop up with fair regularity; here's a thought, could it be that a person who lives in an urban warzone wherein the conflict is fluid, unpredictable and mobile might want to protect themselves a little? Wait, you're right, that's too obvious and pedestrian an argument. Instead let me pose this question. Does it truly matter? The blogosphere is a fluid, end-user defined medium for the communication of opinion and experience. On the experience level you take what you read as obviously unverifiable at the very least. This is journaling not journalism and applying journalistic skepticism is a fool's errand. Read these blogs with the assumption that the writer has a good intention and is reasonably capable of relaying the facts of their lives as they see fit. What reason is there to lie in a forum that neither encourages nor provides profit for a liar. This writing is passionate, well executed and positive in a circumstance most of us can't begin to comprehend. To criticize from a condescending position when you lack any kind of organic frame of reference says a lot more about your need to be heard than it does the intelligence and appropriate nature of your critique. Get your own blog and comment on journalistic integrity and the need for more of it in blogging instead of attacking someone who you have no evidence to believe is NOT a teenage girl in Mosul. That said, I don't really care if Najma is a girl, boy, Iraqi or anything other than a gifted author with a brilliant story to tell. Thank you Najma. My next comments will be more directed at you. I just couldn't let that whole questioning your integrity thing go untreated. Keep it up.
-Kurt M. Wisener, Portland, Oregon US
Greetings.
I am a Mexican student, and while on my short winter vacations, I began reading about the middle east in an effort to culture myself, and ended up at your blog.
You have quite a beautiful way of writing your ideas.
Well, I don't have much to say at the moment since I'm tired. Take care, and best wishes.
--Vladimir Castellanos
I am a Mexican student, and while on my short winter vacations, I began reading about the middle east in an effort to culture myself, and ended up at your blog.
You have quite a beautiful way of writing your ideas.
Well, I don't have much to say at the moment since I'm tired. Take care, and best wishes.
--Vladimir Castellanos
As a retired American educator, I'm impressed with your frankness, your honesty with yourself, and your ability to clearly express your feelings. I'm also quite impressed with your love of school! I'm curious about Iraqui schools. In America, we have 12 years of undergraduate study before admission to university studies. How does this compare to the Iraqui system?
Kurt Wisener, you should be running for president! Your commentary is more concise, to the point, and insightful than anything I've yet seen in the political arena.
- a retired American educator
- a retired American educator
To those who doubt her ability to become fluent in English at her age in Mosul, I present supportive evidence. I've had many students who come into my class from South American countries speaking not a word of English,and are fluent in English by the end of the year. Submerging yourself in a language by reading in that language and speaking the language with your friends and professers is very effective. As for her age and gender, I'm a pretty good judge of that after teaching for thirty years. If anything, I would suspect that she is even younger because of her wide-eyed innocence and excitement about learning.
Hi
You wrote You are a native of Mosul. Do You know something about renovating of St.Thomas church (in year 1964.) and apostles remains founded here?
Thank You!
P.S. I am not often in blogs... Would You like to write to me? : bhakti999@inbox.lv
even You say - sorry :-)))
You wrote You are a native of Mosul. Do You know something about renovating of St.Thomas church (in year 1964.) and apostles remains founded here?
Thank You!
P.S. I am not often in blogs... Would You like to write to me? : bhakti999@inbox.lv
even You say - sorry :-)))
Hi Najma
One of the things that are very impressive is your ability in writing with a style, that there were no ways to skip any things you are talking about.
I 'm really proud that there are such a brilliant students in our college and have this kind of soul and moral constitution.
My best regards
From one of your staff members.
One of the things that are very impressive is your ability in writing with a style, that there were no ways to skip any things you are talking about.
I 'm really proud that there are such a brilliant students in our college and have this kind of soul and moral constitution.
My best regards
From one of your staff members.
Dear Najma,
First of all, I know that Najma is not your real name, but I really like it. It has a great meaning.
Please don't feel bad that you decided to study engineering. It’s true that it is really hard for Iraqi engineers to secure a job related to their field of study after graduation. But this is a global issue, not only in Iraq. In fact most of the academic degree graduates, except medicine, will usually end up working an administrative or technician job that is not related to their field of study.
The good news is that engineers with their extensive mathematics, physics and logic knowledge will do great at any job they take. You should know that you are very fortunate to be able to study Electrical Engineering for free. It’s very expensive outside of Iraq; around $30K in the US for example.
Also, please don’t let your negative depressed professors get you. I have graduated from the Electrical Engineering department - Mosul University 10 years ago and everybody told me that I was wasting my time and should have studied medicine instead :) and I did not give them an ear. Just keep going and do your best and you will secure a great future.
Best regards,
O. Z., Virginia US
First of all, I know that Najma is not your real name, but I really like it. It has a great meaning.
Please don't feel bad that you decided to study engineering. It’s true that it is really hard for Iraqi engineers to secure a job related to their field of study after graduation. But this is a global issue, not only in Iraq. In fact most of the academic degree graduates, except medicine, will usually end up working an administrative or technician job that is not related to their field of study.
The good news is that engineers with their extensive mathematics, physics and logic knowledge will do great at any job they take. You should know that you are very fortunate to be able to study Electrical Engineering for free. It’s very expensive outside of Iraq; around $30K in the US for example.
Also, please don’t let your negative depressed professors get you. I have graduated from the Electrical Engineering department - Mosul University 10 years ago and everybody told me that I was wasting my time and should have studied medicine instead :) and I did not give them an ear. Just keep going and do your best and you will secure a great future.
Best regards,
O. Z., Virginia US
Hi Najma,
I stayed in Iraq between 86 and 88 when my father was posted there as part of the Indian Air Force contingent. We were in Walid near the Syrian border and we visited Baghdad every month for 4-5 days to buy groceries. I have very fond memories of that country and it broke my heart when I saw what the war has done to it. The people there do not deserve this. Inshallah things will improve soon.
Nikhil, India
I stayed in Iraq between 86 and 88 when my father was posted there as part of the Indian Air Force contingent. We were in Walid near the Syrian border and we visited Baghdad every month for 4-5 days to buy groceries. I have very fond memories of that country and it broke my heart when I saw what the war has done to it. The people there do not deserve this. Inshallah things will improve soon.
Nikhil, India
Hi, I live on the hill above the airport overlooking southern Mosul wondering what it is like to visit the ancient sites? I yearn for the day when I can leave the camp and go into your city safely and see the wonders of this area. I see and hear the explosions and have nothing but the highest regards for you and others who try to excell proving that this country can be as great as the UAE. What are you going to do about the Mosul Dam? Good luck in your education and endeavors in life!
Hi Najma
I was delighted with your style and courage. Indeed being an Iraqi citizen and being Moslawi and graduate of Mosul university I found your blog giving me the hope that one day Iraq will see the light and will shine with sparkling light of knowledge and wisdom. I admit that for the time being my personal morals are down , but surely one day we will flourish.
I hope you will have time to see my website www.cosmokalam.com
I was delighted with your style and courage. Indeed being an Iraqi citizen and being Moslawi and graduate of Mosul university I found your blog giving me the hope that one day Iraq will see the light and will shine with sparkling light of knowledge and wisdom. I admit that for the time being my personal morals are down , but surely one day we will flourish.
I hope you will have time to see my website www.cosmokalam.com
Hi there,
I am a journalist working for the BBC World Service in London. We would be very interested in speaking to you on our program. We could do it without mentioning your name. Please send me a quick email on Naveena.Kottoor@bbc.co.uk.
Thanks a lot,
Naveena
I am a journalist working for the BBC World Service in London. We would be very interested in speaking to you on our program. We could do it without mentioning your name. Please send me a quick email on Naveena.Kottoor@bbc.co.uk.
Thanks a lot,
Naveena
Assalamu'alaikum
Good luck for you Najma. I had named my baby as same as yours. Good luck to you.
Good luck for you Najma. I had named my baby as same as yours. Good luck to you.
najma if u are beautifull and have Islmaic manners marry with me:)) I am ıntUrkey close to musul...have ben to mosul ın past.....and I can vısıt you or u can vıst me ın turkey......... contact me
ekinci.abdullah@gmail.com
ekinci.abdullah@gmail.com
my msn ıs sivanekinci@hotmail.com
add me and we can contatc
add me and we can contatc
Hi Najma,
wish you all the best,I thank God that you have your parents beside you,but have to estimate and take in consideration the reality we live in our city,so you have to be utmost care full,wish you,your family all the best.
wish you all the best,I thank God that you have your parents beside you,but have to estimate and take in consideration the reality we live in our city,so you have to be utmost care full,wish you,your family all the best.
Najma, It looks like you are a serious scholar. You might like to consider graduate school in California. You could google for me, Jon Claerbout, and I will send you a letter.
Najma,
I enjoyed reading your recent blog titled "Frustration" about the Microwave transmitter/ receiver issues. Who is the Microwave teaching prof? Dr. Khaleel or Dr. Kaydar or someone else?
If you have any difficult microwave questions, please feel free to ask via email: mosul_university_map@yahoo.com
Regards,
OZ
I enjoyed reading your recent blog titled "Frustration" about the Microwave transmitter/ receiver issues. Who is the Microwave teaching prof? Dr. Khaleel or Dr. Kaydar or someone else?
If you have any difficult microwave questions, please feel free to ask via email: mosul_university_map@yahoo.com
Regards,
OZ
OZ,
It's Khaleel, but not Dr. Khaleel Hasan Mar'e, and I'm not sure about his title or last name.
I'm going to seriously read in the book (Samuel's) and see how it goes.
Thanks for offering help. I can always ask Dr. Kaydar if I need help.
I'm very curious as to who you are!
Najma
It's Khaleel, but not Dr. Khaleel Hasan Mar'e, and I'm not sure about his title or last name.
I'm going to seriously read in the book (Samuel's) and see how it goes.
Thanks for offering help. I can always ask Dr. Kaydar if I need help.
I'm very curious as to who you are!
Najma
Najma,
I don't remember any Khaleel other than Khaleel Sayed Mar'e. But, after thinking about it for a while, I remember one other Khaleel and I think he was an M.Sc holder and much younger than Kaydar and Khaleed Mar’e. He was tall with curly hair, please correct me if am wrong.
Your English is excellent and you should be able to go through Samuel's book very quickly. Also, Dr. Kaydar is an amazing knowledgeable lecturer and he’s very helpful. Both Dr. Kaydar and Dr. Khaleel Mar’e taught me courses in the 90s.
I am not currently one of Mosul University staff, and I check your blog from time to time for implicit Mosul news. Again, if you have any microwave questions, please feel free to ask via email: mosul_university_map@yahoo.com
Best regards,
OZ
I don't remember any Khaleel other than Khaleel Sayed Mar'e. But, after thinking about it for a while, I remember one other Khaleel and I think he was an M.Sc holder and much younger than Kaydar and Khaleed Mar’e. He was tall with curly hair, please correct me if am wrong.
Your English is excellent and you should be able to go through Samuel's book very quickly. Also, Dr. Kaydar is an amazing knowledgeable lecturer and he’s very helpful. Both Dr. Kaydar and Dr. Khaleel Mar’e taught me courses in the 90s.
I am not currently one of Mosul University staff, and I check your blog from time to time for implicit Mosul news. Again, if you have any microwave questions, please feel free to ask via email: mosul_university_map@yahoo.com
Best regards,
OZ
OZ,
I understand the book very well and had no problem with the examples. I think I won't have a problem if I keep reading in the book and leave the lecture notes.
Dr. Khaleel Mar'e has actually left Iraq but comes to visit from time to time, it's unfortunate that I didn't have the opportunity to learn from him. The other Khaleel is tall, but I'm not sure about his hair, he's a bit bold :)
I'll keep your offer in mind. Thanks again.
Najma
I understand the book very well and had no problem with the examples. I think I won't have a problem if I keep reading in the book and leave the lecture notes.
Dr. Khaleel Mar'e has actually left Iraq but comes to visit from time to time, it's unfortunate that I didn't have the opportunity to learn from him. The other Khaleel is tall, but I'm not sure about his hair, he's a bit bold :)
I'll keep your offer in mind. Thanks again.
Najma
Najma, I knew you were up to something, because I did not see any new posts during the month of March. I am very happy for you.
Congratz :)
OZ
Congratz :)
OZ
Hello Najma,
your blog makes me very nostalgic...although I am not an Iraqi but I feel so strongly about MOSUL and it is very painful to hear about the present state of the city
I stayed in the beautiful city of Mosul between 1978-1981 as a kid. I dont know how it looks like. I have some very fond memories of that city specially the Luna Park at the banks of Tigris (DAJLA).....The food...I used to buy a Leham Bazi on my way back from international school which was across the Tigris river.The fresh Khabus from the corner shop was so delecious with kebabs....We used to know one Dr. Azim Kazaz.. it was so nice in the evenings walking past the ancient town houses and tea shops..serving strong sweet black tea in those small glasses...with songs from to AUM Khulsum....ah how badly i want to go back in time.....
JOSH
South Africa
your blog makes me very nostalgic...although I am not an Iraqi but I feel so strongly about MOSUL and it is very painful to hear about the present state of the city
I stayed in the beautiful city of Mosul between 1978-1981 as a kid. I dont know how it looks like. I have some very fond memories of that city specially the Luna Park at the banks of Tigris (DAJLA).....The food...I used to buy a Leham Bazi on my way back from international school which was across the Tigris river.The fresh Khabus from the corner shop was so delecious with kebabs....We used to know one Dr. Azim Kazaz.. it was so nice in the evenings walking past the ancient town houses and tea shops..serving strong sweet black tea in those small glasses...with songs from to AUM Khulsum....ah how badly i want to go back in time.....
JOSH
South Africa
take care
starliz