Psalm 103:1-5 KJV 1 Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; 4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. 

Just last week, I celebrated my fifteenth birthday, and yesterday I was a twenty-year-old bubbly girl and today… I have clocked forty! Happy glorious 40th birthday to a phenomenal me whose journey in life has been filled with remarkable moments and profound lessons that have made me all the better.

As I stand at the threshold of a new decade, I take a moment to reflect on the tapestry of my life woven with the delicate threads of childhood relationships, struggles, spirituality, family bonds and the limitless possibilities of the future. In my beautiful and glorious years, the gift of friendships -both old and new and relationships have without doubt created a solid foundation. I cherish and appreciate all the laughs, tears, secrets and adventures that have shaped my life into becoming the woman I am today. These early connections from New Edubiase to Accra, through the streets of Sunyani and the coast of Sekondi have contributed to the experiences that define me. Thank you to all my friends who have been there for me at the different stages of my life. I do not take these relationships for granted. God planted each one of you in my life for a purpose and a mission. From my classmates, church friends to neighbourhood friends to even strangers who offered kindness a destined moment. Thank you.

Through these 40 years, every challenge and obstacle has only made me more resilient and stronger. Each struggle has been a beautiful, transformative chapter, sculpting my character and fortifying my spirit. I know what I’m made of and for which purposes. Like a diamond formed under intense pressure and overcoming barriers, I have become a gem, shining brightly and with wisdom.

I am thankful for my spiritual journey, my teachers at school, the Sunday school and the JY teachers who gave us their all. Thankful that God is both my father and my best friend. To my ever-solid anchor that holds me through the storms of life- family, thank you. God knows how lost I’d be without you. I celebrate the love, support and shared moments. For your ever-faithful presence. You have been my testament to the strength of connections that are sure and blossom with time.

As I turn the page to a new chapter, I embrace the excitement of the future because I know who is leading me. I step confidently into the future with great anticipation, knowing that He who leads me is the creator of time.

I welcome forgiveness, love, rest, joy, peace, mercy and beauty. Thank you, God. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you Holy Spirit. And because you live, I can face life at 40 and beyond.

“Mother is God number two.”

– Chewa, Malawi proverb

Today, Julie’s girls celebrate a precious jewel God graciously gave us as a mother. A mother we honour and respect.

We have been trying to pen words together to describe your uniqueness, love and exceptional inner beauty.  

As a Christian, you have been an example to your girls in forgiveness. Your heart holds no grudges and you always forgive -seventy times seven as our Bible says.

Growing up, we saw how you always opened your home to others be it family, friends and strangers alike who needed help. You didn’t have much then, however, hospitality always spoke louder than words. You hosted and always gave gifts. The little you had you shared. You took in so many people to care for with your financial resources, time and energy. The best part was -all was done with love. Talk about our friends who have stayed with us during a time in their lives they needed to live in Takoradi (for work, school or any other reason. We remember with a smile a time when one of us brought home a stranger she met on the bus, a middle-aged woman who needed accommodation as she travelled to Accra to write exams). That was a beautiful story as she struck a good friendship with the family. Wow! It’s only a mother like you who would encourage such kindness and generosity in her home. We pray our homes will be filled with this same love.

 There are so many memories of your generosity. We would tell you about a friend in need -whether school fees, hospital bills or just something we needed you to help with, you were always there! You bought one of our dear friends exactly what you bought one of us when they gained admission to the university. May we be half as generous as you!

You’re our role model for hard work, purpose, commitment and zeal. Though you had us at a young age, you picked up to continue in your education and your professional life. Thank you for always sharing your story with other girls who find themselves in similar situations. You are an inspiration!

You have been our solid rock in all the phases of our life ….We can’t name them all here! The hand that waves the magic wand in moments when hope seems lost. Always interceding for us, always encouraging us. An analogy to best describe you is found in the Adinkra symbol “Eban” “fence” which symbolises love, safety and security. These and more you have been to us and the world around you.

We pray Psalm 1:3 unto your life,” You are like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.”

Happy 60th birthday, Mama Julie! We love you!

Today being mothers’ day, I have chosen to celebrate and pay homage to some outstanding ladies who have made me the phenomenal mother I am today.

When my husband and I started having children, our mothers were in the active labour force. So we decided to have support and help from external sources. 

Getting closer to my return to work after maternity leave, I  was yet to find a caregiver for my little one as there was a last-minute disappointment.

I was devastated. Confused. I cried. 

To my joy, my mother waved a magic wand. For 3 months, I had my Aunt Florence come in to help my young family as I navigated life as a new mother and full-time worker. She did this for all my three children hence, giving me 9 months of her life with so much love, patience and immeasurable commitment.

This story can not be complete without mentioning my dear Asor. She saw me through my days as a graduate student with my 6-month-old baby saddled at my back on a university campus. She held me through that period with grace and care for my little one. Allowing me to complete my Masters’ program as we shared the responsibilities of babysitting. I made it through my program. And I made it big! In the next 6 years that followed ( including welcoming my second and third child)  she also pursued her academic goals and just like me, continued to support the children whenever she could. Her organised nature helped establish the routines my children have. She showed so much love and care to my little ones and for all she’s done, we are eternally grateful.

There is also my dear Nana Ama, who came in when I was pregnant with my third child and through to her birth.  She cared for me so I could in turn nurse my new baby with a sound mind. A fantastic lady she was. So gentle, so patient and simply a sweet soul.  Her unique ways with the children are worth noting ( the special powder games and walks). She attended to my little ones and also pursued her educational dreams ( in the field of pharmacy) in between. Her warmth remains always with us.

Lizzie came in the middle of chaos….without any preparations, but she did it! She exuded so much joy, fun and wittiness! An intelligent girl who just loved to play “school’ with my three children. The laughter and structure she brought are commendable. The short walks and the songs are all cherished. She too continues her education at the university.

And there is Grace, the chief gardener herself! She thought me the rudiments of gardening and shared so many stories with the children She loved to play school as well and also made the children help with the chores. She was with the family at the start of the Covid-pandemic, amidst my new adventure with online learning. Together, we carved out a system that best worked for the family. She is a fashion designer in the making!

The story cannot be complete without, Judith- my very own Ms Speedy Gonzales. You came at a very difficult time-online learning, the strong structure was needed and you rocked it! Thank you, Judith!

Ewura-you are remembered too! Thank you for all the treats you shared with my babies.

To Mavis, my dearest caterer, football player, choreographer and all the beauty that comes with it, we are so glad you were a part of this family. Congratulations on your academic journey!

This adulation will never be made complete without appreciating the one who has held the chord and connected the lines through the transitions and the confusion. My one and only cousin, Mary. Words fail me in finding the right words to say thank you for always being there when I needed you most. You’re irreplaceable!

May God bless you ladies for making me the remarkable mother I am today. May you receive this same support and love a thousandfold whenever you need help too.

Happy mothers’ day !!!!!! May God remember all mothers with giants on whose shoulders they will stand to raise their children.

And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.” – Luke 2:51

New beginnings

New adventures…

New learning…

New strength

New hope…

New song…

New joy…

New challenges…

New milestones…

New celebrations…

New mindset…

A new month and day to start afresh.

“This is my sister and I will take care of her”.

These were your words when I was introduced to you many years ago as your new sister. 

Thank you for fulfilling your promise to me -your little sister. As I prayed for you in the wee hours of this morning, my heart is filled with utmost gratitude to God for giving you me.

My faith in God is renewed daily as you are my perfect answered prayer to “All I hath needed thy hand hath provided”. He knew in His infinite wisdom that you are what I would need to make it through this life myself.

You have been there for me in all significant milestones in my life. Providing my numerous firsts-my first bra, my first sanitary pad, my first suitcase, my first sim card, my first apartment.

You continued the journey with me on my first day at boarding school, my first salon visit for my permed hair after secondary school, my first trip abroad, my first childbirth. The list is endless.

We have had so many adventures together, from our local mango hunting escapades with Adwoa after discarding garbage, to our refreshing and witty evenings of storytelling, rich “ab3 bu” (proverbs) competitions, to our Saturday trips to the Sunyani library. 

Our new home provided its occurrences. Our long and beautiful walk from Takoradi to Sekondi with our cousin Naana (who was visiting from Accra) because we had squandered our bus fare. I can still hear our hearty laughter as we walked along the “Mpoano” (Beach) road enjoying our coconuts in the heat of the sun. The strong briny stench from the sea tickling our nostrils. We continued our loud giggles as the “Trotros” (public bus) drove past us. We were content!

As a model student, it was a joy to be associated with you as your sibling. You protected me. Gently corrected my mischievous ways.

Sorry for all the “wahala” I gave you when we were children.

In boarding school, you visited me when you could with mouth-watering delicacies and having sweet conversations with my friends. You constantly teased my friend Janet for dipping her lips in Frytol vegetable oil.

Thank you for the fights. Yes, we fought about crabs in Mama Julie’s finger-licking okro stews!

Thank you for being my role model. 

Thank you for the prayer sessions, retreats and vigils.

Thank you for the sacrifices-too numerous to pen down. 

Thank you for supporting me in every phase of my life.

Thank you for loving my children.  

Thank you for accepting my friends and making the effort to know them for my sake.

Thank you for teaching me respect, and love for humanity.

Thank you for believing in me and my talents.

Thank you for your beauty within and without, kindness and generosity.

Thank you for teaching Esi and me the true meaning of love and sisterhood.

We have prayed together. We will stay together.

Happy birthday my first love, joy and inspiration! The 4th floor welcomes your breathtaking presence! Climb on to greater heights!!

This post was originally written to celebrate the women in my life on International Women’s Day…I have revised it to acknowledge some more strong women forces in life.

Seven years of nurturing new lives, raising resilient and tenacious children who understand and appreciate who they are and where they come from. Having a great value for their culture and what this might mean to them. A deep reflection about this on this important day makes me want to sing the praises of the women in my life who are holding my hand in this quest.

First, there is my mother.

An industrious entrepreneur who knows the price of hard work so the mouths of her children and countless others will be fed. There is zero tolerance for laziness in her world. She inspires me to wake up every morning to get to work to do what ought to be done not only for myself but out of responsibility for my children and society. This woman epitomises the word forgiveness and has the kindest heart I could ever dream or wish for. In the business of her own life, her deepest joy bursts from her ability to give back to society and serve others in need. 

My big sister O. Who is my greatest teacher of giving. Sacrificial and a dependable rock.A first-time mother who is giving out her heart and soul to be the best! 

Little sister K…optimist. My inspiration to never give up in my quest to take action in society. A true change-maker!

My amazing mother-in-law (G) and auntie in-law (P). Always available to support me on days I need a helping hand with my children (their grandchildren)  with such love, kindness, compassion and joy. Like this very moment as I write.

To my aunties..Mama, F( who has blessed me with 9 months of her life taking care of my little ones) and G( helping me find work that puts food on the table and providing me shelter in her home). 

To my amazing neighbours who bring me nothing countless blessings. 

To my cousins, girlfriends, colleagues, Sunday school teachers who are exuding love from within and without. Doing your own magic with your children both far and near-you are precious!

To all the women I see daily on the streets of Ghana, with babies strapped lovingly and solidly behind- carrying goods so they can make ends meet and yet pause in the business of their rough day to sing their children songs of comfort to ease their pain.

 I salute you!

To the single mothers out there. Thank you for your sacrifices.

You are the reason I am gliding!

Those moments when words fail you

Or when you refuse to speak  ;

When the emptiness is a million words stringed together.

The thoughts clouding your mind can’t be expressed with conversation ,

And in your eyes are wonderings and wanderings ;

Interpreted  and perhaps misinterpreted best

By the people who might care to devour  .

Sometimes a safe abode to live ,

Only when you know the journey that ushered you to that sanctuary

Makes it golden indeed.

Seven years of nurturing new lives, raising resilient and tenacious children who understand and appreciate who they are and where they come from. Having a great value for their culture and what this might mean to them. A deep reflection about this on this important day makes me want to sing the praises of the women in my life who are holding my hand in this quest.

First, there is my mother.

An industrious entrepreneur who knows the price of hard work so the mouths of her children and countless others will be fed. There is zero tolerance for laziness in her world. She inspires me to wake up every morning to get to work to do what ought to be done not only for myself but out of responsibility for my children and society. This woman epitomises the word forgiveness and has the kindest heart I could ever dream or wish for. In the business of her own life, her deepest joy bursts from her ability to give back to society and serve others in need. 

My big sister O. Who is my greatest teacher of giving. Sacrificial and a dependable rock.

Little sister K…optimist. My inspiration to never give up in my quest to take action in society.

My amazing mother-in-law (G) and auntie in-law (P). Always available to support me on days I need a helping hand with my children (their grandchildren)  with such love and joy.

To my aunties..Mama, F( who has blessed me with 9 months of her life taking care of my little ones) and G( helping me find work that puts food on the table). 

The list is infinite.

This would make another story for another day.

To all these amazing women on the occasion of International Women’s Day , I salute you !

You are the reason I am gliding!

In a few hours, a good friend  (E) celebrates her birthday and these few words come to mind. 

Grateful for years gone by, days filled;

That brought me joy;

For care and kindness;

Gracefully shared.

Grateful for the listening ears;

That lifted my spirits;

For sharing in the adversities;

Gracefully praying.

Grateful for steadfast companionship;

That brought laughter;

For bringing new light;

Gracefully shining.

Grateful for seeing beyond my frailties;

That built me up;

For candid conversations;

Gracefully growing.

Another year has arrived and blessed us with the gift of the month of March. Another opportunity to share the big and small events in my life through the power of purposeful writing.

As I take this challenge I look forward to the many motivating stories that this writing community brings. Ready? Maybe, not! One thing I know for sure is that I am motivated enough to join.

Today, my Sunday fufu ( Ghanaian food made from pounded cassava and plantain)  supper ritual was disrupted today due to a “kitchen” hitch. The palm nut soup which was to serve as the accompanying dish was unfortunately left on the stove the night before. It never made its way inside the fridge. 

Long story short, my well planned, highly nutritious palm soup got spoilt. My frustration was from the energy and time-consuming preparation gone waste A lot went into getting it all set and done.

The “mama” in me managed to make supper special with a substitute dish. It definitely wasn’t our Sunday special fufu, but it did bring satisfaction and joy to hungry stomachs.

 I have made a mental note to myself for next week…