Our beautiful Mum, Janet, Grandy, was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer in early September 2014.
This is a site dedicated to her, and to allow us all to share in her journey
At about 9am Pacific time September 18 2014 Janet passed away quietly in her sleep. A gentle rain started falling, one much anticipated around here.
Please post a thought, a memory, or a blessing.
Here’s the latest post.
I didn’t know Janet Hermans, but she knew me as a baby, when my family still lived in Botswana. She and my father were working on a project having to do with the Basarwa, I was born after their work there but they were friends after. I was just told this by my father about 30 minutes ago when I mentioned that I applied to schools to study anthropology. I was excited to hear that I had ties to such an interesting woman, but very sad to hear that she had passed. It’s funny that 18 years after I first met her as an infant, I am going away to college to study the very same field. I’m happy to know that my path crossed with hers even if i wasn’t able to appreciate it.
Dear family of Janet’s,
It is only now that we learnt about Janet’s passing away. We are shocked and very sad.
Although being geographically so far away -even on a different continent- nothing can stop our loving thoughts of our dear friend Janet.
We are very thankful for the time we have been able to spend together at Kgale Hill sharing our love for music, good humour, company and -not least- struggle for justice.
Janet will always stay in our heart.
PULA!
Ka lorato,
Gisela + Gerhard Schulte, Hildesheim/Germany
You are not easily forgotten Janet; I am returning for a visit next month and I cannot believe that you will not be there. Every time I arrived on holiday Janet’s home was my first destination. Such hospitality was given and fun times we had playing duets on your beautiful grand. Seeing how the plants I passed on had thrived . love to th family and especially Jen who I hope to see during my stay, Ailie
Sunday 17thy of August we had coffee at Mien’ s garden with Janet. Mien is Janets’s neighbour and friend. We were talking about our families, about Botswana, about our artificial hip, about the years with the Gaborone Singers, about bookclub about getting old in Botswana and about September next year: a get together with music at Janet’s place. like we did last year with David. That day Janet also met her family at Mokolodi. Janet travelled to Washington that Tuesday, I to Amsterdam. I was shocked to hear that Janet died only one month after that sunny Sunday morning: sitting under Mien’s beautifull tree, blue sky, view on Kgale Hill: so relaxt! Never again…
Your family will miss you and I will miss you. And I feel sorry for Mien who lost her husband this year and now one of her best friends. I will remember Janet as a very strong inspiring woman.
Condolescences to the family especially Jenny.
Tineke
Amsterdam
Dear family of Janet,
With great sadness the message reached us of the passing away of Janet. We met Janet several times during our four years from 1992-1994 we worked at Kuru Development Trust in D’kar.
Together we organized the Open Day in 1992 which became a bid success thanks to Janet and Doreen and we kep in touch every time we visited Gaborone. That is long ago bur some persons stay in your mind and whenever we met friends from Botswana always was there the interest in each other, we kept informed how our lives were going on in Botswana and Holland.
In thoughts we will be at the memorial on the 29th of October 2014. We wish you strength in the future missing your mother and grandmother.
Dear JANET;’ rest in peace.’
Margriet and Cees Otto
Doorn / Holland.
Missing you, Mum. The sorrow is not fading.
It is difficult to imagine my next journey to Botswana without meeting with Janet Hermans. She has been among the very first people I met in Botswana and to share with me some part of her lifetime experiences along the San and the Kuru Art Project. She opened to me with such a great generosity her house, her stories and her numerous archives. I spent a great deal of time looking through her books and reports, while trying at the same time to tame her wild naughty cat. There was in her presence something of a soft and cosy atmosphere, I loved it.
I am very grateful for all the work she did and for the way she was.
Lots of love and strength to the ones that remain,
Leïla
The news of Janets passing on came as a shock to me, for little did I know that Janet was taken ill and that by the time we heard about it she had already passed on to be with our Lord. Now, this memors confirm to us that indeed Janet will not return from abroad to be with us in Gaborone as she has shared a greater pat of of her former life with us. What remains with us for ever though, is her gentleness with which she had always touched our lifes and the many memories and courteus moments and supports she has lended to many of us individually, institutionally and just as a network and friend of people engaged in San work in Botswana. In moments like this, we can only thank the Creator for blessing us with such a life which has in many profound ways but gently touched our lifes. I was always amazed at her easeness even when discussing what sometimes I considered difficult issues to resolve with regards to San development, she would always seem to know just how best to resolve it with such simplicity and kindness in her words. This memories will live with us for ever, and I believe like others that her family will be comforted to know that Janet’s life has indeed touched so many other people and and we have learnt a great many ways of working in challenging environments through some of her advise and gentleness. Re a leboga…..
Dear Tim, Tessa and Jenny
What can we say that has not been said. You treated us to the beautiful photo of the the young Janet and Quill Hermans on Facebook. Ulrika and Anne informed us of your beloved Mum’s condition. We held onto HOPE, hope that we would be seeing her in Botswana when we would be next there. But who are we mortal souls to decide on what the future holds! Many of Janet’s friends have been in touch with us, Denise Salisbury, Derek and Hazel Hudson, and many more. She is remembered fondly by all. Greatly missed……
With much love, Julia and Per
We are indeed saddened by this painful and tragic news of Janet’s passing. May her soul rest in eternal peace awaiting the glorious resurrection by our LORD. In moments like these, we wish to let the family of Janet know that the pain and sorrow they feel is shared by us all who knew Janet. Indeed, she was a wonderful person, and her generosity knew no bounds nor measure. Our hearts shall forever cherish her with gratitude and fond love for Botswana, especially for its people. You shal,ever be fondly missed by us all.
Andy Chebanne
Dean, Faculty of Humanities
University of Botswana
It is hard to believe that Janet could have passed so soon. She was ever full of life. I first met her in D’kar when she was with Sidsel Saugestad barely 2 years ago but i have always heard of her as a wonderful woman from others including Willemien. They all stayed with her in her Kgale house. She must have been quite a host.
Then i continued to meet her at the University of Botswana during short seminar presentations and we talked. It is sad to believe that the woman who was so much in life and saw the positive side of everything could leave us. Surely we have all lost an asset and thanks to her children for setting up this obituary so that we can connect from afar in the desert land.
We will all miss her and i cant imagine the gaping hole she must have left in the hearts of those who were very close to her. I first learnt of her passing from Dr. Bolaane who has greatly been affected by this sad news.
Blessings to her children and all families she had come to have in Botswana and elsewhere.
From my parents Julia and Potlako Molefhe in Botswana who only recently heard of MaHermans passing….they remember with fond memories of a beautiful and warm person. A couple of events stand out – the presence of Janet Hermans in church at the memorial service of my late brother – Kagiso Molefhe in 2004, a dinner at her home -host to Betsy Stephens in Botswana where I was also present. With the recent passing of good close family friends during this month of September -My Mom especially is deeply saddened by it all.
May she rest in eternal peace.
Dear Janet’s family,
We too are shocked and very sad, and will miss Janet enormously.
What a delight to have known her, and have wonderful memories of her warmth and welcome .
Thank you all for the share we had in your Mum and Grandy.
Frank and Margaret
It is still difficult to believe that Janet is not with us. Chuck and I met Janet soon after we arrived in Botswana in 1973, and she made us feel very welcome. We enjoyed a number of excellent outings together and became friends. Over the years we have seen Janet on our return trips to Botswana and when she visited her children in California. Our friendship deepened because of past experiences and common interests. She always was thinking about something interesting and was more than willing to share her ideas and concerns. Our long conversations were challenging and fun. Chuck and I will miss her and remember her with love . Like others she is part of the fabric of our lives. She will not be forgotten.
“Some journeys take you far from where you come from …. but closer to where you belong.”
Condolences to the family R.I.P
Unfortunately Spotify is not available in Botswana. Is there another wat y to listen to her favourite music, Tim, Nev?
Janet, may all this incredible love that you evoked from so many, many people carry you wherever you are headed, and may it surround your family. They all shine with the same light that you emitted, you have powerful DNA and you taught them well.
Love you for always,
Robyn
It was a pleasure meeting Janet, at yoga classes with Bharti! Although I did not know Janet very long, but her warm & friendly smile will always be remembered! The news of her demise came as a shock!
My deepest condolences to the family. My prayers be with you all, and sent to your beautiful Mom. My heart is filled with sadness. May her soul rest in peace!
Nasima Bhamjee
Dear Janet
How sad I feel to have lost you. You brightened those early years in Gaborone – how I looked forward to those afternoons around your swimming pool with all our little children about us. I never once saw you anything other than warm, loving and gracious, whatever life threw at you.
George preceded you by just a few weeks. It’s tough on those who are left. I send you all my love.
Bridget
Janet and Quill were the first people I met when Bob and I came to live in Botswana. Janet took us into her home and we were there for there for our first weeks, embraced as part of the family, given help and advice. Janet was pure kindness and grace, that along with a lovely sense of humor and a curiosity about all things which brought so many interesting people to her door and into the lives of her family and friends.
While I had often asked mutual friends about Janet over the years, always glad to know she continued to live a full life, the end of it here has brought back so vividly so many memories along with the realization that she possessed a special goodness and anyone who knew her, for any length of time, would through her receive blessings.
The memories and blessings live on with gratitude for having known her.
It has been a privilege to enjoy a long personal friendship with Janet, who opened her home to a visitor from Tromsø. I have also come to deeply appreciate her quiet, skillful and enduring engagement in San issues. Not sure what has been most important, it is the combination of her many qualities that made her such a special person.
Our personal and professional collaboration extended from a first meeting at the now legendary Gaborone Sun conference in 1993, participating in meetings and conferences in the region on ‘Miscast’, Khoesan identity and Rock Art. Then the series of ‘San Research and Development’ conferences at the University of Botswana, that eventually brought about the establishment of the San Research Centre a few years back. In a crucial initial period she was employed by the University of Botswana, but all the time she has been in the background as a supporter: helping out, sharing information, and giving encouragement. Always guided by a sense of fairness, and an ability to practice what she preached. Among the many things she has done, I would like to particularly mention the dozens of ‘San Research’ parties at her house, informal and inclusive gatherings on her lovely terrace, and more than a hundred small dinners where locals and visitors from overseas were entertained, problems discussed and solutions aired. Her unobtrusive diplomacy can not be underestimated.
I share with Maitseo Bolaane, and so many other friends, a great debt of gratitude to what Janet did, and the way she was.
Dearest J
News came too late and I am not in time to say goodbye. My heart is sore at the thought of not seeing you again and I so hoped to do so on my next visit to Gabs. So many happy memories of times spent with you ; the years of standing next to you in the choir and the fun times with the altos; playing duets on your gorgeous piano once you moved – galloping along at a rate with the ‘”Queen of Sheeba””! taking me into your home after my op and welcoming me back on holiday; seeing you garden grow . The journey we made to Joburg and you drove my car with me reclining in the passenger seat for a lovely week end to hear the piano duo. Fun parties at your home and at mine. I can’t believe it was so long ago and that you wont be there again. You were such a caring, loving friend and always ready to give of your time. My thoughts are with your dear family ,Tim,Jenny and Tess and the grand children not to mention all your many friends. You brought sunshine into our lives. God be with you x
Thanks for all the nice messages, folks. We’re all dazed with grief and shock over here in California. Mum will be buried at the Pleasanton Pioneer Cemetery, near my house, we’re told Monday the 22nd or Tuesday. I know she’d get a kick out of discovering all the famous western pioneers and characters also resting there. We’ll put together our own little ceremony. All welcome to attend. We will then do a big memorial in Gaborone. Date to follow. She did not want to be cremated, or else we would have brought her home. Lotsa love.
I am so sorry that I never got to meet Janet face-to-face, but the beauty in her soul shone in every email and the one phone call I was able to share with her about Hugh Gregory Gallagher Motivational Theatre. She was a delightful, strong, energetic, and loving person. Her spirit and generosity of self will be sorely missed. Peace be with family and friends at so quick and unexpected a passing.
We are so sorry to hear of Janet’s passing last night. Although we did not have the privilege of knowing Janet well, we have been touched by her warm and friendly manner and inspired by her strength, humility and grace. We have been touched by the open and loving way the family have embraced the last stage of Janet’s life and we are all richer for having been a part of it. We send our deepest condolences to the family, may the angels lift you and comfort you in your grieving. With love from Marc and Yvonne
Oh Janet!
My thoughts and prayers are with your, beloved friend. You were so close to us, to Jutta and my whole family, even during recent years, when you were geograpically so far. Knowing about your presence has made us richer — and everybody you touched.
Thanks for everything.
When Jutta died she said “I am going back to the light”. I hope you felt the same. You will always be with us …
Warm greetings to your family
Peter
Dear Janet, you have left us struggling with a lot of emotions, but in reality there is only one thought that counts: home is where the heart is, and you will be forever at home in so many, many hearts. Thank you for enriching our lives. Love to everyone, Lin x x x
Dear all!
I heard the sad news a short while ago!
Janet you will be remembered for being a very caring, fun and lovable person. I will treasure the many memories I have, specially the times we played drums together in our band The Hailstormers. Those were the days!
Rest in peace Janet, you have lived a full life and have touched so many people around you.
You will always be remembered, never forgotten!
Kent & family xxx
Fully agree with you Kent and all the others’ reactions! I will miss you forever and I am grateful that you did not have to suffer for a long time Janet! In loving memory you will be in our family. Mieke
Dear Janet,
To think I’ll never hear your sweet reassuring mellifluous voice again, and to think I just recently removed your “voice from the past” message from August, 2010, from my phone. It seems like just yesterday I saw you and Tim in DC. How good it felt to be in your company again and how fortunate to have known you, my neighbor, my friend, protector, adviser (even if I had to compete with Toby).
Peter and Lizzie join me in their sadness and with me send love to you (with Peter’s and your shared love for reggae) and Tim (whose football uniform Peter also wanted), to Jenny (whom Liz missed terribly on your departure for college), and to Tessa (who made Liz realize she too wanted a horse.)
And so, dear Janet, we know that you are :
“in a thousand winds that blow, the softly falling snow,
In the flowers that bloom, a quiet room, the birds that sing,
In each lovely thing,”
We will “remember you lived, forget you died.”
All our love,
Sue, Peter and Lizzie
Dear Janet, Tessa, Jenny and Tim
Ever since I heard the news of your illness, Janet, I have been thinking back over the long years of our friendship. I know that with your great modesty, you would be a bit overwhelmed by all the warm, loving memories shared on this website by such a variety of people but they are all so true. As for me, you have given me so much support in a million ways. Our shared concern for the San people, your unfailing interest in the smallest details of my life, your generosity and warmth and great gift of laughter. Thank you Janet. I will carry you in my heart all the days of my life.
I think of you members of Janet’s family at this time and pray that you will each be comforted and strengthened by the outpouring of love shown in these messages and feel supported. You have a wonderful mother and I also know how much each of you has meant to her.
Shelagh Willet
The greatest woman I have know is resting peacefully now. RIP Grandy.
Dear Janet,
Greetings from sunny Sweden!
It was only when I moved to Sweden that I realised how lucky we were to have you as our neighbour.
Completely contrary to what we were spoilt with growing up, the nieghbours here do not take too kindly to any loud noises or music after 10pm. And we can definately never expect to be greeted at the wall with a gift of mouth-meltingly delicious brownies.
I look back with nostalgia on the times when I would climb over the wall and into your home where I would always be welcomed by happy children running around and a group of even happier adults sitting or standing around snacking on cheese and crackers. Your home was and always will be a place filled with wonderful memories for all those who had the pleasure of knowing you,
Loads of love,
Esbjörn
Bless you Janet for all the love, kindness, consideration, thoughtfulness, fun , laughter, music and sunday discussions. You made us all bigger people Thank you.
Love, courage and strength to her wonderful familyaand friends who have holes in the lives right now. Fxx and Mike
Dearest Janet,
I (Tom) met you and your family, many many years ago, before we became related through marriage.
Our memories of you will live on in your wonderful family.
As Bob Marley reputedly said a long time ago:
Long after you are gone, the beat of your drum will go on ……
Tom, Fuzlin, Ashton and Ewan
xxxx
Dear Janet!
We write to you as Kristina is giving birth upstairs in our duplex in Brattleboro, Vermont, with midwife and doula and husband with her.
Her labour began about 20 hours ago–we had anticipated it would be easier … . She is expecting a son,
We have been wanting to communicate to you, to learn how the book club is doing, etc. and and now find we have to say farewell instead!
Amy sent us the sad news about your sudden illness in California … We are thinking of you and various times with you over our 22 years in Botswana:
Book club fun, sharing our feelings about them with you, was just great; making music with you and generally getting to know you and feeling grateful for all the care you gave our Quaker friend Shelagh, we appreciated it all so much!
Thank you for the blessings. We are glad that your family is there with you.
Much much love from Gudrun and Sheldon
Gudrun Weeks
violin viola cello musicianship
802-490-0165; 251-0132
11 Oak Grove Ave, Apt 2
Brattleboro VT 0530
Dearest Janet: Remembering some of the fun times we’ve had. Like the trip to Aspen when I drove (badly) and HGG navigated our route via perilous, winding mountain roads sided by sheer drops. (Your brother never could do things the easy ways.) You and Kath were in the back of that huge white van no doubt terrified. We laughed and laughed (afterward!). Ahhh. Dear kind, classy, beautiful Janet, I’m thinking of you a lot. Love and hugs from Patrick xox
I just want to also thank you Hermans children for allowing the wide crowd of Janet’s friends into this special and usually very private period in each family’s life. Through this wonderful website you show that you have the same Janet-like generosity that we all mention. It is so hard for us Africans not be able to come give her a hug, or make her a cup of tea, and by this you are allowing us that privilege as well. And, by inviting us all in, you create a great gathering of all Janet’s many friends and connections, who may now share our grief as well as joys, without the usual stress of “who gets along with whom”. We love you for it. Janet, this is the time when you would usually expect a call from Maitseo, and when you and I would be in our pj’s with a last cup of tea, listening to Kgale Hill night sounds…….I miss that. And I know you do too….
Goodnight.
[McMillan Ave. Admirer of yours, and friend of Tim and Kathleen’s]
Dear Janet,
I am grateful to know that you are surrounded by much love from so many of us, both near and far, that have great affection and admiration for you. Our moments together at neighborhood gatherings on McMillan Ave. were always more enjoyable for your presence. I always enjoyed sharing a glass of wine and hearing about your latest adventures across the globe!!
I really like this quote, and want to share it with you. I like the message and hope you will too.
Late Fragment
“And did you get what you wanted from this life even so?
I did.
And what did you want?
To call myself beloved, to feel myself beloved on the earth.
-Raymond Carver
Janet, you are beloved on this earth.
May peace be with you. Many rich blessings to you. I will see you in the next realm, my friend.
With great love and admiration,
Suzanne
Janet,
I’ve always had fond memories of your two weeks as my surrogate mom. You have such an easy and loving way about you. So much so I didn’t even mind practicing the piano (it helped that you played, unlike my parents…sorry dad!). You introduced me to writing Christmas cards. I can’t say that I’ve kept up with that but I plan to from here on out, to keep your memory alive. I hope you can see and hear from all these posts how loved you are! May your final days be pain free and filled with good memories and laughter.
All my love,
Alexis
Dear Janet and Jenny
You are never far from my thoughts – sending love and hugs xxx
Janet, there is only one of you but many of us. Only a few days ago we were having a lovely lunch with you at Botscraft – yr favourite sausage and mash not available that day – hm! – what does that tell us? – so it had to be their lasagne. You told us that you might be a bit late because you wanted first to check on Doreen Nteta at Phakalane who was a bit wobbly – and who can know about the traffic? And then it was our usual lovely talk – not least, at my request, about the first, approved, recording of the national anthem by a choir led by Mrs Pletcher, wife of the US charge d’affair whose efforts, individual and collective, so you said said, were criticised because of the inability of its majority white members (?) to properly pronounce Setswana.
Given that stunning start to Botswana- US relations, recent hiccups are much to be regretted. The two can go so far together.
And then there was your requested reaction to an attempted chapter in my book on Gaborone – you described it as dense – a brilliant observation and just what I needed – – but you then worried that I might be sensitive to what seemed to be criticism!
You are of course a bridge for so many of us, obviously between then and now, but more, between so many different people, and backgrounds – as is evident from earlier comments. And then in the background, there is your life long concern for the San – continuously and quietly demonstrated over the years – for whom you have been a major friend and supporter. It bears a bit of thought to grasp that you, Janet, long ago, went off for a week to the Kgalagadi with the legendary George Silberbauer, having been encouraged by Peter Fawcus to do so, as you told us. Seemingly you have known everyone here, over a long period, who was worth knowing. And there have been many. Quite a comment on someone who repeatedly claimed that her role was limited to being a wife, and a mother!
Obviously we need you back here – but if this may not be possible, we hope that the twilight in America may be as kind to you as it is to us here.
Dearest Janet,
The news came as a big shock to all of us, and you’ve been in our thoughts since! We have such fond memories of you, first from your trip with Sidsel to our small village in Namibia, and then from welcoming us in Gaborone! You’ve been so kind and generous, not only towards us but towards all those small invisible people no one usually noticed – little Mona Lisa and Gravity, the short crippled woman who showed us the way to the village… Your smile, your attention to detail, your calm and warm presence made all the difference!
Unfortunately, Noah was too young to remember you. Maxi does and is sending you all his love. You’ve been very good to him, he said, and you are a wonderful pianist!
Reading all these inspiring words only reaffirm what we’ve already known: you are one of a kind, and we are grateful for having met you!
Hey there Janet, as I sit here and think of you, it is that special kind of Botswana-hot, but still as pastel-y beautiful as only Botswana can be at the end of the dry season. Dust in the air turns the sky to dark, warm shades of purple and pink and grey in the evenings. Acacia blossoms release such a gentle fragrance. The wind blows – rustling the trees and little blue waxbills tseep-tseep-tseep at the water’s edge. One of the things I associate with you is how special this place is, especially in the evenings in the hot season. As night darkens, the stars begin to trace shapes and imagery across the velvet blue. They twinkle, and I think of how many times we all looked up and wondered; just wondered. How small we are in this vast Universe, yet what important tiny cogs in the Earth’s machinations. I think of you and Kiran looking up, and wondering about travelling out there, travelling beyond the beyond. And the magic of this planet that we call home. Janet, you’ve always evoked this sense of wonder – I know it will follow you wherever you go. With much love to you, and to all the family, and to Eve who I am so glad is there with you, Lin x x x x
Dear Janet,
Earlier today I got the news from Alan. I’m so glad that this site has been set up to allow folks to be in touch and share thoughts. It has been such a long time. You took me in – decades ago, now. More than once, and even with years in between, you shared your home, conversation, your gentle sense of humor (I hear you chuckling in my thoughts), your pets, the pleasure of tea in the courtyard, a love of reggae and Glenn Gould, books, meals, your observations about life, and so much more. I doubt you know how much I admire you and your approach to life.
Much love –
Amy
Dearest Janet
Eve and Phil are getting on the plane right now in Gabz to start their journey to you. We have loaded them with as much love and courage as we thought they could bear, most of it is for you! They’ll need a bit to keep them strong too. You are constantly in our thoughts and we raise you up in our hearts, thanking you for everything… everything you have ever done or said or not said. You are an amazing woman and we are so happy to know you, to have shared life together in all its convolutions.
Watch out… here comes another shower of love and smiles from our side of the planet.
Fxx and Mike xxxx
….and all the others here who I know would join in sending this shower to you.
Hi Janet,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. We will always cherish and treasure all of the wonderful memories we have of your visits. You have gone down in history as the farthest traveler to our wedding, all the way from Botswana. You also managed to give us our most special wedding gift of all, the dessert china dishes that belonged to Timothy Ladd and Nonie Gregory Smith from Tiffany Ranch, Kansas who were married in 1879 and had Mary Ladd, my great grandmother. Your thoughtfulness in sharing these amazing pieces of our family history has touched our hearts deeply.
Renee wanted to share this quote that makes her think of you. “Some people come into our lives and quietly go. Others stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same”.
We love you and hold you in our hearts!!!!!!
Kevin, Renee, and Matt
Dear Janet
We were very distressed to hear of your sudden unfortunate discovery, especially since you seemed to be still very healthy and active. It is fortunate that your offspring are all able to be with you during this difficult time.
What we remember so much about you is the welcome and hospitality you afforded us at your home in Gabs. Accomodation in that lovely house below the towering granite hills bedecked in barking baboons made a visit to Botswana all the more pleasant. Neville was very fortunate to find a lovely wife with such a wonderful mother.
We are thinking about you all so much and hold you in our prayers. Remembering that all things are possible we wish you recovery from all your illnesses and may you not suffer much pain.
Love and best wishes to all the family.
Lots of love
Bill and Lorraine
I have such sweet memories of Janet when I’d visit the family in Washington. And the happiest rendition of her laughter came (at the oddest times) from the pet Minah bird! Janet is a beautiful soul, inside and out.
Janet,
You are the most loved person I know.
Thank you for the memories. No one can take them away;-
-Playing duets with Nell in Gabs.
-While you were in Washington having Matthew stay for an entire summer.
-Your visiting us in Greenwich.
-The drive we shared from Maun to the Tsolido Hills.
-Your ready, inclusive smile.
-Many more said and unsaid.
Love ,
Nell and Norman
Dear Janet,
Thinking of you and your gorgeous family and sending you all much love.
It was so lovely to catch up with you in Gabs last year and your writing advice is in my mind as I edit my current work!
Lots of love, Sarah X
Dear Janet,
The photograph of you and Betsy that is posted in the photo section was taken at Holland Lake in Montana during July, 2008, when you helped us celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. We always enjoyed having the photo. Now we shall treasure it.
All our love, Betsy and Ralph
Dear Best Neighbour in the World,
Kgale View is very empty without you here. Our little neighbourhood is not the same with you in California listening to reggae music. I love reggae but I would prefer to have you here playing your piano with the windows open. Saw your cat yesterday, he was lying under your car snoozing (glad to say that he was not being chased by any of our dogs). Your roof is covered with rock pidgins as usual. They look very tasty but I have left them alone since they are on your roof and not ours. I have not heard anything from Ann, she is still somewhere in the Guyanese jungle. I am sure that she will get in touch as soon as she hits civilisation. Lots of love to you and your family. Ps. Will send some photos of the cat and the pidgins. Mattias xxx
Dear Janet
How clever of your children to come up with this great idea so we can message you. I am so very sorry to hear of your news. I cannot imagine how hard it must be for you all. To have your fabulous children around must make things a little brighter. Lovely Janet. I think of all the times we have met and drunk tea and shared news. I love that you always show me your grandchildrens art to check they are ok( by the way they all seem very happy and completely loved- as it should be). It sounds like you are getting great care in the states which must be a relief for Jenny and Tess. So Janet I thought I would tell you the gossip from over the pond- as I know you love Good old Blighty. Firstly everyone is debating if our Scottish cousins will be leaving us soon. The Tories are terrified and the Labour Party would lose half it’s MP’s My eldest Elsa has gone to Edinburg university so very soon may need a passport to come home. She has already got in with a load of medical male students ( fabulous… I think I am secretly a Jewish mother!) the hilight of Elsa going to uni was the 18 hour car journey I had to do with my ex husband to get her up there!! Can you imagine. It was actually very healing as he FINALLY apologised for wrecking our marriage. Good to hear 2 weeks before my next wedding. So I am getting married to the lovely Ricky Lee( his parents were country and western fans!) next Sat. I will send Jenny photographs. It has turned into a mini festival with friends singing and playing the piano and I have a celebrity dj as my friend is married to a comedian called Phill Jupitus who is on british telly a lot- he does a good job of humorous Hiku poetry which makes Frank laugh.
Frank got 7 Gcse’s in August and is off to train as an aircraft mechanic and holly is doing a levels and will be a detective inspector in the police very soon- I blame CSI on the telly. Rebecca and Michelle send their love to you. We couldn’t come to Botswana this year because of my wedding but hope to go back next year. I am teaching in a very rough school and it is the hardest yet most rewarding job I have done. A lot of the kids are in care and so give you a really hard time to see if you will come back. When you keep coming back they eventually love you- but still give you a hard time. I find a lot of meditating in the mornings helps- please universe do not let me lose my temper today etc.
So dear Janet – we are praying and sending you all the positive energy we can from across the Atlantic. You have always been so welcoming and kind to me and my friends. I know you are adored by your 3 children and grandchildren and in a safe place. Take very good care of yourself. Lots of love Emma Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Dear Janet, Tessa, Jenny, and Tim,
Like everyone else in the world, I’ve been thinking a lot about you guys in the last few days. My thoughts always end up in Botswana. All the kindness and goodness in me comes from my idyllic childhood in the wonderful wild paradise of Botswana. Much of that is largely your responsibility, especially Janet’s, for being such a kind, welcoming, and hospitable host to all of us Stephens’s. For introducing us and showing us and teaching us what it’s like for a kid to grow up in the best place on earth. My appreciation and devotion to the natural world is largely your responsibility and I am forever indebted to you for this. And not to forget, the same welcoming and hospitality when we visited several years ago for the best vacation we have ever ever taken!
I was cycling through our “wilderness” of Rock Creek Park before dawn this morning thinking of all of you. The tears started falling and almost simultaneously it began to rain……the gods must be crazy.
Love,
Dan Stephens
Dear Janet,
You knew me before my memory begins and from the moment it began I only have happy memories with you – making whirlpools in your pool in Gaborone by going as fast as we could in circles and later long walks in Washington parks and back in Gaborone again when you took me back to Thornhill. You have always been so kind and loving. I wish you light and strength.
Love Julius
Dear Janet and Tess and all the family
So many years have gone by since Botswana and yet it seems to me to be yesterday. Later, you were so generous in “adopting” me when in Georgetown and seem to me to be so much part of the world that the news of your cancer seems to be an impossibility. In a way it is, because you are and always will be, part of all of those who have known you. I’m still sorry we didn’t get to see you when I was in Botswana with my girls. But I believe we go on and I am sure we will meet again, as the African song goes.
I am glad you are with family and are receiving all the support you may need on your journey, though knowing you, I am sure that you will still be giving as much as you are given.
Keep enjoying every minute and know that you are a very special person.
All my love,
Karin
Beloved Janet,
Jenny January told me today what was happening for you and your family in California and I wanted to let you know that you are in my heart and prayers now. Even though we didn’t see each other much, I have never forgotten your kindness towards me, especially when I first came to Botswana. It is the same kindness you have always shared with everyone. Thank you for that kindness and for having such a wonderful family. So happy to hear that you are all together now at this most precious time. I’m sure you can feel all the love that is coming to you from Botswana! That love will never stop! Sending you Peace, Beauty, Light, and Wisdom. And the next time I am on a dance floor – I am going to be dancing one for you! Big Huge Cosmic Hugs! Ava
Dearest Janet:
So good to be able to hear your voice and talk last night, bringing back warm memories of long ago. Curious how one remembers events of 50 years back better than those of yesterday. Memories of staying with you in Gaborone when I first visited Botswana in December 1965 when kudu were still roaming the streets of the new capital, wondering what was happening to their private grazing land. You were so kind to Jos and I when we first arrived as a family and you’ve been a wonderful generous thoughtful friend ever since. It has been a privilege to have shared a part of your life and we are sad not to have seen more of you in recent years. You mean a great deal to us and we love you very much.
Jos will add to this when she wakes up. So here I am–
Pierre still wakes earlier than I do. I remember Tessa marching around the house saying “Where’s the mother?”, picnics at the dam and our tea parties which didn’t break our friendships even though our children battled each other. Your part in our lives goes so far back, Jan, and runs so deep that you are still close, even though we’ve lived on different continents for so many years. You introduced us to the New Yorker in Botswana, and we still get it, I still read it cartoons first, then poetry, then Talk of the Town. Too many memories to share, too many to lose. For us, you’ll always be around.
Jos
Sweet Janet,
When things go horribly wrong and we have to be brave and strong,
Courage can be hard to find …
Some find it in the beauty of a song,
Or whilst listening to the beat of a drum.
A melodi on the piano can sooth and make even the roughest paths seem smooth… Giving hope that the future is kind and allows us time to remember and remind … of all the wonderfully funny and special times.
We love you Janet, and send you and your family strength and huge big hugs!
Xxx Hanna, Hans, Kent & Katja
Janet, you are an AMAZING person and so very loved! You have raised a wonderful family, and I am so grateful for my beautiful friend Jen. Sending you lots of white light.
Tess, Jen, Tim and your families, I am sure Janet finds peace in the love surrounding her. Thinking of you all.
Love Anders, Jenny, Sofia and Kristoffer
Dearest Janet, Jen, Tessa, Tim and your partners and children
what an amazing journey you have had and still have together, what an amazing mother you all have and what a chance to have this time together as sad as it is, it is part of life and will give you the chance to talk, to laugh, to dance, to cry and be together.
Dearest Janet thank you for being who you are and being part in our life, as are all your beautiful children and their beautiful partners and your beautiful grandchildren.
We will always be there for them.
It just started to rain,
Pula !!!
Medicinal marijuana go for it!
lots of love from the whole Köhler clan
Birgit and Reiner
Dear Janet:
It has been a wonderful friendship. We first met on the phone 45 years ago soon after Ralph had accepted the BDC job. You were in the US and we talked. For me …. Africa???? …… Bot-what????? … What to bring???? …..You said living there would be like living in any town in the US. Instead it was Gaborone – the best thing that ever happened to me and to our family. And over those 45 years you have been my closest friend. Lots of others probably feel the same but the many things we have shared are unique. We supported each other – laughed and cried – as our children grew up together – and all the ups and downs but mostly ups as they passed through childhood, teenage, adult, marriage, parenthood. We shared lots of adventures in Botswana, new lifestyles in Washington, and once you returned to Botswana – emails, visits here, visits there, and trips together. Two weeks ago we had a very special day together — reflexology, new shoes from DSW, and Cosco! and a long and lovely chat – just like usual. love/ Betsy
Dearest Janet.
I just cannot believe this terrible news.
In my mind I will always see you looking happy and beautiful
as you did on the day when we met at the Tea Garden
and I wished you a good journey to the US .
Hoping that you would return in time to
celebrate yet another birthday with me, my family and all
our mutual friends.
I will always remember and be grateful for the many happy times that we have had together ……. birthdays, weddings, Christmases and all the informal gatherings at Ann and Mattias’ house.
What a wonderful friend and neighbor you have been to my children and grandchildren.
We all love you, we miss you and we wish you and your lovely family lots of strength at this very difficult time .
A gentle hug from your friend Sieglinde
Janet: it’s so clear how many lives you’ve touched and in how many ways you are so much a part of our lives. When I go into my office later today I’ll look at that lovely blue “Rasti” stone and will recall the Jake stories…… Among so many other stories from one chapter or another. You are in my heart and soul dear friend.
Dear Janet,
So sorry to get the news that you have this challenge ahead … but if anyone can beat it its you. You have always been so inspirational with your determination, amazing energy and zest for life, and how you always stand up for what you believe in and take on adversity head on. Your intelligence and humour will guide you through this difficult time. Please do consider the cannabis oil treatment. My thoughts are with you and Jen, Tess and Tim, sending you all lots of love from Ireland.
Remember when: We all went up to Tsodilo Hills with The Botswana Society. I ripped my pants crashing through the thorn fence, and Nell’s tent collapsed. Your laugh rang through the camp, and sent the three of us into gales of giggles. More giggling ahead, I hope.
Dear Aunty Janet,
I’m sending all the love our family has across the desert, the sea, the tropical coast and a little more desert to you. In all the years I have known you, I have known you to be a pillar of strength, with an amazing wit and humour at the most difficult times. You always gave calm advice to us as new fretting mothers and we all hope to be like you when we grow up- a super mum and super granny. Emeldah and Ben both send their love. Hugs and kisses…..xox
Dearest friend Jan! Reading all the things other people have written, I agree fully with their descriptions of you as a lovely, warm, easy, humorous and fun character, a friend and fellow human being. We have known each other for 25 years! Together in the Gaborone singers, both alto’s. Enjoying it lots and loving music! Later our playing together at home, the baroque and renaissance music. Lots of fun and enjoyment! Also our combined interest and love for the Kalahari San peo-ple and their culture and language. We talked a lot about that! After 12 years of Maun, we have returned to Gaborone. One of the hopes I had about this, was that we would play together again, at least once per week! The news about your illness has shocked me deeply! I pray for you and I think about you! Lots of love and strength Cornelis and I wish you and your family. Mieke and Cornelis
Janet, my days are hazy with shock and sorrow and everything I deemed important pales in comparison with memories and thoughts about you, your house, our times together, your present terrible but also beautiful situation. I treasure the memory of our last dinner discussion about the stars, the Universe, our life without our bodies…..and I cry about the missed call I could not answer before you got on the plane. All because of a stupid meeting!
You know how much you mean to me, and I thank you again….and will always.
Be still and be strong, dearest friend. I think of you every minute…and wish for a little laugh about something silly…once more. God is in control, after all.
Lovely Jan, who snuggles into everyone’s hearts, and then sits there smiling happily, my heart is sore, not for you, but for me. And for Tim, Jen, Tessie Bear, and your huge extended family that includes most people I know who know you.
Even though we’re all geographically so far away Jan, we’re so close with how much we love you.
Strength and peace to you, and so much gratitude for how much you taught me over the years about generosity, kindness and how to be a grandy myself.
Pouring buckets of love all over you,
Robyn
Dear Janet
Hope you are enjoying your good food and drinks and sitting in front of the OP trial again! Will it ever end!!!! Thinking of you all and sending lots of love. xxxx
Janet,
I was so shocked and sorry to hear the news. I am utterly flawed and so saddened to hear that something like this can happen to such a beautiful person, but I am so grateful for all the time I have spent with you. I will always remember the times in your garden, little Joey and the absolutely delicious brownies you make! Your home is still frequently in my dreams, having spent so much time there at an important part of my childhood. I am so thankful that you let us stay there before you ever knew us! It was the best place to go after moving so quickly, and I always felt at home there for years after because you always made it that way. You are so wonderful and have brought such love and kindness to so many.
Sending all of my love,
Tiva xxx
Dearest Janetta,
My thoughts and prayers are with you every single day. Whatever decisions you and your beloved children make, please be assured that I support you every step of the way.
Thank you for being such a fabulous friend and allowing me to be part of your life. I remember fondly, the times we have spent together, the times when you, Eve, Hugh, Dorrie, and I went out to dinner and boldly sang all the songs we loved right there in the restaurant. What a nerve.!!
Thank you for having me to stay with you, when I had vacated my flat in Gabs, and I knew jolly well that I was not to interrupt The Bold and the Beautiful on TV. Annie and I have spent so many wonderful days with you. Do you remember driving with me to Harare when I left Botswana?
So many happy memories of times we have spent together. I could write a book about them.
Much, much love to Jennie, Tess and Tim, to their spouses and to your beloved grand children, and most of my love to you
Sue
Janet, Tim, Tessa, Jenny et al- what Sean said is true, we were all elated to have Janet at Angela’s 80th birthday party August 30th! Those twinkling blue eyes and good humor add joy wherever they go. The Enrights are thinking of you and hoping we can be helpful – PLEASE let us know and in the meantime we love you Janet! xo Sheila Enright
Dear Janet,
I have loved your voice since I was a kid. You exude such warmth and generosity, and you’ve always made me feel authentically cared for, even through something as simple as a chat.
It’s crystal clear from all of these notes to you that have a limitless capacity and that I was not alone. Thank you.
Sending you all my love,
Phalana
Dear Janet and Jenny,
So shocked to hear your news. This is a massive stream of love and positive energy that is being sent from Botswana… Count us in! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lots of love, Heather and Ray
Dear Janet,
Eventhough we have never met, I can see that you are very loved and admired by all and you happen to be a sincere, caring, generous, kind and gentle person. God never leaves the side of such people. You are blessed and I am sure you have had a very full and compete life and knowing Tim I am certain he has taken good care of you and made you laugh with his wise cracks! My family and I are praying for you and one day we will all meet. Tim, stay strong buddy during this special journey. Recalling good memories………..Jatinder
Grandy’s busting out of the hospital tomorrow and coming to our house! First order of business – besides giving her a pedicure – is to watch the verdict in the Oscar Pistorius trial. Then, we’ll have a big Grandy-style party. Good music, good eats, catching up on The Bold and The Beautiful, and lots of reminiscing with family and friends.
Hey, so glad that she is getting out. Please give her the good champers that she deserves. We are all awaiting O.P….. Love to you all and thinking about you sooooo much.
Sounds like she is in perfect hands! Have a swell time you all / Much love to all-Nimmi
Everybody will be switching their phones off during B&B, I trust? 😉
Hi Janet,
Shocking news. Wishing you and your family strength and lots of love.
Janet, In the little time that I was blessed to meet you over the years, you have always made such a strong memory in my mind. You are one of the rare, caring, genuine people that people have the honour of meeting only a few times in their lifetime, and to top it off, you raised incredible children and a beautiful family. May you feel how your presence has been touched by so many in this world. May you feel loved, blessed, and the world’s embrace. Sending you thoughts and prayers.
Janet dear girl. What can any of us say? I’m so shocked and sorry . Ray sends his love. You remember he and I getting together all those years ago in Gaborone? Lifetimes ago.
Your family are fortunate to have you, your close friends to know you. Stay magnificent!
Dear Janet, entire Enright horde considers itself lucky to be part of your family and your loveliness and your universe of love — and how great it was to see you again just ten days ago! East Coast sagging under the weight of all the good thoughts going out toward you. xo Sean Enright
Remember when: I first met you in Botswana on the way into the Museum for an exhibition (you were leaving), and before we were even introduced you told Paul he looked like a mafioso with his mustache. My dim view of you was soon put aside when I saw your generous, loving and good humored nature at our next meeting. And ever after I’ve loved you.
Janet,
It seems very unfair. Among our friends, your were always the most kind and considerate. When some of us would show our cynical or skeptical sides, you would always bring us back to the more charitable and more loving perspectives. You were overwhelmingly generous and kind from my earliest days knowing you, when I was in the Peace Corps, through lots of wonderful vacations together and happy visits from you to Annapolis. You have no idea how widely your presence will be missed by everyone who knows you. Much love,
Paul
Dearest Janet and Jenny,
Sending all our love to one of the most amazing Grandy’s I’ve ever met. We’re thinking of you both every day.
Love from Nicola, Ben, Lara and Andrew
Hi Janet! You are such a special person and so much loved by everyone who had the oppertunity tomeet/ spend time with you! I am sure all the love and wishes coming from all over the world will be with you when you win over this tuff challenge that you have been thrown suddenly into! My thoughts and prayers are with you. Big time hugs from Nimmi
Eish Janet
Sending you heaps of love and vibes from Peru. Perhaps you should come over here for some ayahuasca treatment.
Whatever the case may be, I’m wishing you the very best and sending waves of unconditional loving and hopes for a speedy recovery. Get better soon rasta momma.
Beloved Sunday night grandmother, by the holly moons of mount Zion, the big fella’s throwing some bummerific curve balls. It is with the flame of a billion suns that we send you superific flames of healing and love.
You are a magnificent Grandmother to us Sheldon mob and whatever may come (and I trust it will be many a more dorrito chips and cold beers on those kgale viewing evenings) we will be there in the reggae 4 beat with you.
Lots of love
She is the best mother anyone could ever hope for. Her family is much bigger than most would know. We love you Janet.
Dearest Janet
What a terrible shock…what a terrible, terrifying, crazy week…can it be only a week and a bit?
When we spoke on Sunday before last you said you felt tired but it was most likely to be the long travel and time changes, and taxing taxi drivers and all.
Now the world has shifted and I imagine you are facing making big changes in your life. I read what everyone has being sending you – and it all rings true. Your generosity and ease in giving… your emotional sophistication… your ability to distinguish the silly from the profound. I love the way you don’t seem to waste time or energy indulging smallness of spirit. Someone wrote that they had never heard you being mean about anyone – and I have the same experience of you.
I have so many things to be thankful to you for: First, for allowing Lorha and Tiva and me to find a new home in your house when we moved to Botswana.
Just letting strangers, who you had never even met, move into your home, because they needed help – that is your kindness.
I thank you for becoming such a good friend – Those stimulating conversations and cups of good tea… those chocolate brownies! Learning so much about Botswana from you. Your curiosity about the world at large inspires me.
Watching Obama’s first inauguration at your house. (so lucky it didn’t coincide with The Bold and the Beautiful!)
Many thoughts at this time – all about your extraordinary value – and how important you are in the lives of Lorha and Tiva and me and many other friends that experience you like family.
And then your children and your children-in-law and your grandchildren… I wish them lots of gentle and loving and fun times with you now. They all have such deep love and respect for you. A beautiful family!
Sending you all my love, and all my hope that you feel stronger soon.
Erika
We are so sorry to hear the news of Janet’s illness.
Janet – we feel very lucky to have got to know you a little bit during our time in Gabs. You are such a special Gran and Mum and I have often thought how I really want to have a similar relationship with Siana and her children as you do with Jenny and Lily.
Jenny – sending you a huge big hug. Siana and I will take extra care of Lily.
Sending you all lots of love and thoughts
Marvel(!), Nick, Siana and Hallam x x
Dear Janet,
Sorry to hear of your unexpected illness at this time. Thanks for being interested and caring especially at the beginning of the year with Ash’s accident. Your kind words and inclusiveness meant a lot.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Fuz, Tom, Ash and Ewan xxxxx
Dear Janet,
I am so sorry to hear that you are not well. You are an amazing woman, mother and grandmother and I know how much Jen admires and loves you. We wish you strength during this difficult time and pray for your complete recovery.
Thinking of you all and sending lots of love and BIG HUGS
XOXOXO
Lorien, Jonathan and family
Grandy i miss you, come back soon. ❤️❤️
Grandy!
We are all in shock! You were so healthy apart from the dodgy hip! Stay strong and positive and take it day by day. We are all sending positive thoughts. Missing you. xxxxxx
I am so sorry
I just can’t believe it! She seemed so healthy
I Know rite she was so healthy!
Dearest Janet, Jenny, Tess and Tim. I know that hundreds of people across the whole world are thinking of you at this time, and sending their warmest wishes. May you feel encircled in our care. Your family has a depth of love that transcends geographical distance. May it give you the strength to turn towards each difficult moment in the days ahead, and savour each moment of joy and connection. My own warm cyber hug is winging its way from Johannesburg. With deepest love, Lucy xxx
Hey Grandy,
Missed you Sunday night. This time Eve’s turn. Damn. It was empty without you.
Earth Mother to us all, we send you tons of love, care and gratitude from the bottom of all our hearts.
Dearest Janet,
You have been a mentor, a friend, a co-explorer, and an extra mum-figure in my life! I have no doubt you will continue to inspire me as you deal with this huge challenge ahead of you. Know that you have oceans of love and support from so many people, wishing you well, sending prayers of healing and comfort, and being with you and your wonderful family in spirit. Lots and lots of love, Lin
My concert going, yoga practising, music loving, culture vulture, maternal, funny, caring friend! Thank you for sharing all of those things so freely with us – for being such a loving, accepting, free spirited lady – and truly an inspiration! My heart is holding you tightly and sending you concentrated vibes of peace and strength during these very trying times and most of all LOVE!!
Dear Janet,
I wanted you to know that Jeff and I are holding you close in our prayers. We were incredibly sorry to hear the news of your illness. Jeff had such a lovely time with you and Jenny in Botswana recently. I know I haven’t seen you in years, but I remember you so fondly. You were always so kind to Tessa’s friends, bringing us all in to your home like we were family. I have always admired you as a mom too – how you unconditionally love and support your babies in all of their endeavors – you gave them all the confidence they needed to become the fabulous humans they are today. I pray for peace for you during this difficult time. Much love to you and your precious family.
Hugs,
Leigh (and Jeff)
Dearest Janet, you are one of the loveliest loving Mums I know, I wish you peace during this difficult time. Your giraffes are watching out this side! With all our love, ollie and Batsho. Xxx
Hoping the sweetest reggae music this side of trenchtown surrounds and fills you with the love and joy. I’m jamming out today with you in my heart and ears. Love you Janet. Maf
I met you the last time I was in Botswana. I’m glad I did,because even though it was a brief encounter,I felt I had known you a long time,mainly because my orbit brought me in contact with your children especially that idiot Alan :). That led to Tess and her family and finally Jenny and her children.
Your warmth shone through,your aura,your gracious bearing……that is why I feel lucky to have met you. My thoughts and warmest regards to you and your lovely family.
Lots of love
Honour.
Dear Janet,
It was such a pleasure to see you the other day. You mentioned the first time you met me, asleep on a couch in Gaborone. While I cannot remember that moment, ever since that day you have been a very important part of my life. I remember making up water dance routines with Jenny, Tessa and Polly in your pool, almost breaking my mother’s nose dancing at your house one New Year’s day, camping with the Hermans family at the Tuli Block, watching The Jewel in the Crown with you in your Rittenhouse Street house because we didn’t have a television, your presence at my parents’ 50th anniversary celebration which meant so much to them, and so many other warm and wonderful memories. But most of all you have been a beacon to me of love and warmth, always with a kind comment, never have I heard you say a mean thing or take a hostile attitude or get flustered (even when you hit that cow on a dusty backroad). I honestly think that you are the nicest, sweetest person I’ve ever met. Your aura is infectious, spreading all that is good and gracious to everyone lucky enough to meet you.
With all my love and warmest regards,
Alice
Paul and I are full of gratitude to have you in our lives. I’ve been remembering your hearty laugh at something you found funny–usually one of Paul’s silly jokes– all the great talks we’ve had over the years over one crisis or another, the love you have for your children, the good company you’ve been on our trips together. You have been an inspiration to me in so many ways, Janet –as a parent, a friend, and a thoughtful presence in the world. A wise and courageous woman, I think we would all agree.
I hope we can create many more good memories in the months to come, if you decide to stay in the U.S. May love, light and laughter follow you wherever you go.
Love always, Lonnie
Best mummy in the whole world. We love you!
Dearest Janet,
Missing you here in our beautiful delta. It rained last night and this morning… ah! petrichor. Those gorgeous smells after hot and dry.
Am so glad Eve and Phil are going to see you. They will be weighed down with our love, peace and strength, all for you.
So… what is a booboo? Get one asap.
Good to see you smiling from your recliner and enjoying the creature comforts again.
Love and big gentle hugs from Frances and Mike
XXXxxxxxOOOOOOooooo
A booboo is the same as an ainah. So far, not much pain for Grandy. We had a quality evening yesterday. Two episodes of The Bold, one Colbert Show and two Jon Stewarts. Mashed spuds went down well too. She also had a good sleep. Wish we were there smelling the apres-rain with you. California is as dry and hot as Hades.