Wow! Before I met him, I knew him! You might wonder what I mean by that… Well, well! Maamepayin had literally given me daily updates about this interesting, calm professional who was wooing her and making her laugh so much. I kept saying, “Why wait, my sister? Get on with it — that’s the only way you’ll know if he’s the one.” A good cook that he is, Francis (my hubby), Yaako (Maamepayin’s BFF), and I were invited for a meal at his residence — and we just hit it off like a house on fire! He was exactly what I’d envisaged: funny yet serious-minded, focused yet relaxed, mature yet playful — and, more importantly, the kind of man I had wished for my sister. It’s hard to pick just one memorable moment — too many to count! Ellis is a perfectionist, and the two of us are alike in many ways. We always laugh about how we could never be a couple! I remember, on Ellis and Maamepayin’s wedding day, when all the guests were enjoying themselves, there were some behind-the-scenes delays that got him worked up. And who had to take the brunt of his stress? Moi. The pressure was on, so I gave him a piece of my mind — which wasn’t very pleasant. But guess what? Not long after, he cracked a joke to lighten the mood, and we both burst out laughing. Maamepayin looked at us like, “Are these two even serious?” I so love Ellis. He’s a good man. He could honestly pass for a comedian! He’s hilarious — but you’d better not believe everything he says at face value… He’ll tell a joke with such a straight face that you’d think he was dead serious, while everyone else is in stitches. If I had to use one word to sum up my bond with Ellis, it would be: God-sent! I met Ellis when he started dating Maame about 13 years ago, and we hit it off immediately. We had so much in common — shared London experiences, similar personalities — the connection was instant. And since my opinion mattered to Asor, I took that role seriously! We’ve made countless memories over the years — the good, the bad, and the unforgettable. Let’s just say we’ve had some great times together… though our wives are reading, so I’ll stop there! What always stands out is Ellis’s sharp wit. The things that come out of his mouth can amuse and shock you in equal measure. He’s a great chap through and through. If I had to sum up our bond in one word, it would be brother. These days, we’re basically eating from the same pot. Ellis, happy 60th, brother. Wishing you good health, prosperity, and a great marriage. Francis Poku I first met Ellis as a college freshman at the only University Hall of KNUST. We were eager, ambitious young men! One standout memory: Ellis got me to perform on GBC (GTV) — supporting a poet, even though we were science students! Funny trait? Ask him about “KKM.” One word for our bond: “JEMIN” — our squad of loyal, funny, ambitious friends. Lizo, best wishes as we climb to the sixth floor. Wishing you many more healthy years, and congratulations! Joe Brewoo He’s frank, good-hearted, reliable, generous, and more. He’s been a pillar in the lives of our entire family — and anyone close to us. I couldn’t have wished for anyone better. Happy Diamond Jubilee, Nii, Ellis, E, Nii-An!!! The big 6-0 is no small feat — all by the grace of God. May you be blessed with good health, peace of mind, and may the work of your hands continue to be fruitful.Remember, you’re not getting old — you’re just upgrading to a classic model. Love always!!! Maria Awuraba Poku 12 The Birthday Journal LOYA L
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