We’ve known Auntie Yaa Yaa since childhood. Our mum always called her Auntie Yaa Yaa, so that’s what we also called her. Growing up in our close-knit KNUST community, all the mums and dads became our adopted parents — and Auntie Yaa Yaa was naturally one of our mums by default. Jan recalls: “I found her name fascinating. As a little girl, I always wondered why there wasn’t an ‘Adwoa Adwoa’ or ‘Abena Abena,’ but there was a ‘Yaa Yaa.’ I couldn’t wrapmy young brain around it!” Auntie Yaa Yaa is stylish, outgoing, fun-loving, and young at heart. She always wears a bright smile that complements her energetic and pleasant personality. She makes ageing look flawless and admirable. Vin adds: “I can’t believe she’s turning 80 years old!” She inspires us to live our best lives every single day. Cathy remembers vividly: “I’ll never forget seeing Auntie Yaa Yaa after one of her trips to London. She was walking briskly along Ridge Road, wearing a red T-shirt neatly tucked into her clean-cut blue jeans, with little Akua (Sister) in a matching red top and blue jeans tagging along and trying to keep up. She looked so young, stylish and full of life — it was such a beautiful sight.” Donald shares: “Auntie Yaa Yaa was extremely supportive during the funerals of both our parents. Her quiet but strong presence was reassuring. It reminded us that although our parents are gone, we still have a mother figure in her.” And of course, there’s her classic mix-up—nomatter how often she sees Vin and Jan, who are in no way identical or even twins to begin with, she still can’t tell who’s who! She is so confident she’s right that we’ve encouraged her to remain grounded in that confidence. Cathy adds: “It’s always a joy watching her sing with the worldacclaimed Our Lady’s Choir at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church, KNUST. They’re always extra melodious.” Maxine sums it up best: “We’ve never had a misunderstanding with her. Anytime we see her, she says something funny that makes us laugh.” Auntie Yaa Yaa is stylish, friendly, and ambitious. If we could thank her for just one thing, it would be for her kindness — the quiet, consistent kind that leaves an impression on your heart. Auntie Yaa Yaa, eight decades on this planet is nothing short of a blessing. We thank God for your life, how far He’s brought you and how far He intends to take you. Your best years are ahead, so keep believing, keep living, and last but not least keep serving God devotedly. You’re dearly loved. Enjoy your octogenarian celebration, Auntie Yaa Yaa! The Boakyes, Ridge Road (KNUST) AuntieMonica, I can’t recall exactly when we first met, but it is very likely to have been in your house on campus when, as a student in the Department of Land Economy, I came to see my lecturer, Mr. A.Y.A. Asante, on one of the many occasions my colleagues and I visited him. You often received us warmly, making us feel at home, even though AYA, as we called him, was a strict disciplinarian who commanded respect and a little fear. I got to know you better when I joined the staff of the Department as a young member. I remember my joy when you shared that your maiden name was Opuni, which automatically made us cousins. The Asante-Akyem and Kwahu origins of our names didn’t matter — inmy view, the Opunis are a very special group of people, carefully created by God! Since then, I have known you as a big sister. Over the years, you have remained that supportive, caring presence for Clara andme, and we have always enjoyed your company whenever the opportunity arose. I amhappy and grateful for that. On this occasion, as you celebrate your eightieth birthday, Clara and I share in your joy and pray that the Lord will continue to bless you with health and vivacity in the years ahead. Afehyiapa, AuntieMonica. Prof. Seth Opuni Asiama 34 The Birthday Journal
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