I’ve known Auntie Alberta for more than 40 years, and honestly, she has been like a mother to me. When my late husband married me, the very first place he brought me was to her. From that moment, she took me in as a daughter, and I’ve always tried to be a good girl to her. At the time, she was already in her 50s, and I was still a young woman finding my way. She wasn’t related to my husband—he was actually a schoolmate of the late Master Cudjoe—but that didn’t matter. From the start, she embraced me as family. One of the most beautiful things I treasure about her is how nurturing she has always been. She didn’t just teach me life lessons; she also shaped parts of who I am today. I still remember how she patiently guided me in the kitchen, especially with my baking. Auntie Alberta had this natural gift—her hands worked magic with flour, sugar, and butter—and she never held back in showing me her secrets. She’d watch me closely, correct me gently, and cheer me on when I finally got it right. That’s how I brought up my baking game, and to this day, whenever I bake, I think of her. Now that she’s turning 90, my heart is full of gratitude for her life. My wish for her is simple but deep: may God continue to bless her with strength, good health, and peace of mind. She has done enough. No more going into the kitchen! Mommy, please stop cooking! When you’re hungry, just call us, and we’ll take you to Atlantic to dine. You’ve worked so hard, and now is the time to enjoy the fruits of your labour. At 90, you deserve to take life easy, surrounded by love and care. 90 years is no small milestone—it is a true blessing from God. My prayer for you is that you relax, live happily, and continue to receive God’s endless blessings. Mommy, you are precious to us, and we thank God for your beautiful life. Francisca The Birthday Journal 23
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