Michelle comes to represent all her children: “Our mum cooks better than yours. No contest here!” I don’t even know how to sum you up in words, but if I had to choose one thing that defines your love—it’s how you give. And most of the time, you give through food. Growing up, food was never just food with you. It was how you showed care. You’d spend hours in the kitchen, even after a long trip back from Kumasi, just so we’d have something delicious to eat before you left again. No matter how tired you were, you cooked. You didn’t want anyone else to do it—because it wasn’t about the food itself. It was about how you wanted us to feel: safe, full, and loved. Even now, your weekends home follow the same rhythm—clean, care, cook. After church on Sundays, while most people are winding down, you’re in the kitchen making sure there’s food in the house before you drive back out of Accra. That’s your way of holding us, even when you’re not here. You don’t just do this for us, your children, but for our friends too. I’ve watched you pack food for Daddy, even when you’re busy. You’ll ask, “Has he eaten?” like he’s one of us kids! And with Papa, you spoil him rotten—you get him special snacks and meals “because he’s still growing.” (Meanwhile, Maame and I are apparently full-grown trees!) But seriously, Mommy, it’s amazing how giving you are. Whether it’s groceries, birthday meals, or last-minute surprises when friends or family show up—you never let anyone leave empty-handed. Your food is your way of saying, “I love you and I care deeply for you.” And that has stuck with me more than anything else. You’ve gone through so much—job loss, illness, tough seasons—but you never let it take away your desire to give. You’ve kept showing up. You’ve kept loving. And you’ve kept feeding us—literally and emotionally. Thank you for every bowl of jollof, every grilled chicken, every Sunday fufu. But more than that, thank you for every way you’ve shown up for us—with your time, your heart, and your food. We’re so proud of you. We love you more than words can say. And today, we hope you feel as full and celebrated as you’ve made all of us feel for many many years. Charlotte declares with love Where do I even begin? Our friendship has been an incredible recipe of laughter, love, and the sweetest memories—seasoned by your generosity and care. From the moment we met back in 2007, I knew I had found someone who would always be a special part of my life. If there’s one thing that stands out about you, it’s your remarkable ability to nourish those around you—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. Whether it’s a warm, home-cooked meal that arrives just when I need it most, or the thoughtful gestures you make to remind me I’m seen and loved, your giving heart is your secret ingredient. You have this extraordinary way of showing love through food. It’s not just about feeding people—it’s about nurturing them. I’ll never forget my first wedding The Birthday Journal 35
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