I first met you through Akua, I think around the time of her engagement in Ghana, though it has been so long that it’s hard to recall exactly. You are a very caring person, always with a smile on your face. You are loving but also very no-nonsense — a quality many young people today could learn from. These are the qualities about you that I truly admire. Whenever I think of you, the first thing that comes to mind is your smile! One memory that still makes me laugh is when I visited Akua with my little dog. I washed the dog’s bowl in the kitchen sink, and you immediately reminded me, with your usual firmness, that a dog is a dog and a human is a human. Since then, I’ve never mixed the two — and I still thank you for that lesson! You treat all of Akua’s friends as if we were your daughters, and I am so grateful for that. Three words that describe you perfectly are: happy, caring, and firm. Congratulations, AuntieMonica, on turning 80! May God continue to bless you with long life, good health, and happiness. Love you plenty! Natasha Amoo-Adare Mom, you are loving, protective, and warm. I thank you for inspiring me, for your wisdom, and for the light you have brought into my life. I first met you in 2012 when you introduced me to your carpenter fromKumasi to help solve some issues I had in Accra. That was a memorable experience for me. Youmade a real difference in my life when you helped me at the Dome development site, and because of your support, I was able to succeed with my first development. You inspire me with your determination — showing me that with focus, I can do all things. A light-hearted memory I still smile about is when I told you I would “hook you up,” otherwise I would marry you myself! I feel truly blessed to know you. With love and deep appreciation, I celebrate you on this special day. May God continue to bless you abundantly, Moms. Owusu Amoakohene 92 The Birthday Journal
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