December 30, 2023

Some 2023 thoughts… ❤️

Last year on this day~I sat in one of our favorite coffee shops that is now closed.  Today I came to “our place” also where love, dreams and vegan food are abundant and always was for Allan and me.

Before I came here today—I read some love notes and cards Allan and I wrote to each other ~~made me smile, made me cry, made me feel lucky, made me yearn for what could have been. 

How can I have all these feelings at once?  It reminds me of what I say to my students—we can hold more than one feeling at a time.  I am trying to be gentle with myself, be honest and true to what is really real. 

As I reflect on this year 2023–my bag is full.  Full of gratitude, hope, fear (yes, that can happen) and joy for so much.  The kids are doing well—being true to themselves and making authentic decisions about life.  My daughter and I  have become even stronger together—supporting each other, holding each other up to the great work, friendships and dreams we should have.  @am3liap4ige 

When I came to Fermento @fermentolb today—I had hopes to sit at the table Allan and I always sat at—but a customer was already sitting in “his seat”…kind of a funny thing to think I hold onto.  So, when I realized that was a little over the top—I took another perfect seat, because they all are. 

I looked through some doodles during my meal and found one that spoke to me this morning. “Pay attention to what your heart is telling you to do.” I have a bunch of decisions this coming year and I am going to stick to these words during this time. 

Thank you all for the continued love…you have helped me process 2023 and I look forward to what 2024 has in store. 

I am honored that I can continue Allan’s legacy work—and continuing to develop it as more people “find me”, believe in me and see the benefits of the mission. 

More school programs, more merchandise, more scholarships and so many other “big things” are being developed.  Realize Harmony has an amazing future and I thank you!! 

Spreading New Year love to all. ❤️

~~Ilene

#griefjourney
#lovestory
#inspirationalwork
#empoweringothers
#veganfoodie

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