Jani moved to Joplin in May 2003 from Pretoria, South Africa. All by herself, she showed up to the Oklahoma City airport, with 2 suitcases, both bigger than she is. She came here to work for Jr High Believe at CIY. We traveled all over this country together and quickly she became my kindred spirit.
That summer in 2003, Martin also moved here from South Africa. Jani & Martin were certainly acquaintances in South Africa, but it took them moving halfway across the world to find out that they were to make a life together. Martin quickly became a true friend and confidant for my Jon.
We traveled many miles, shared many meals and holidays, and lived through many good and bad experiences during their time here. In December 2007 they needed to move back to South Africa, and we were all devastated.
However, trusting God's plan and taking with them all of their American experiences and opportunities, they are now living in Cape Town, South Africa, ministering to a new group of people, who desperately need to hear the Gospel.
Not only are they celebrating Jani’s 30th birthday this month, they are also celebrating the birth of their little girl, Anke Louise, who was born 2 weeks ago.
Today I wish I were taking cupcakes to Jani’s house, sharing a strong cup of coffee with her, and holding her sweet baby. Many things in my house, in my garden and in my heart are daily reminders of my dear friend. And today I celebrate her!
Since I can’t be with her today and give her a gift in person, a picture will have to do. This picture leaves my computer with much anticipation, and many plans still to be made.
Happy Birthday Jani!We’re coming to see you next December!!!!!
I’m tired of being uncultured. I’m tired of letting that fear keep me from experiencing some amazing things. So I'm taking one step at at time. First, tell Martin. Second, get passport. Third, tell Jani! South Africa, here we come!
Soon we will be eating cupcakes, drinking coffee, walking on the beach and playing with your sweet baby TOGETHER!! And we can hardly wait!
I love you my dear friend! And I can hardly wait to hug you tight!
Happy Birthday!
