Celebrating Laura's 55th Birthday: A Journey of Love, Books, and Connection

March 26th is a day that holds a special place in my heart. It’s Laura’s birthday—today, she would have turned 55. This year marks the first birthday since she passed, and it’s a bittersweet moment. While she may no longer be with us, her spirit lives on in the books she loved, the adventures she dreamed of, and the connections she made across the world. Today, I want to celebrate her life in a way she would have loved—by sharing the magic of books and continuing her journey of giving and receiving love through literature.

A Toast to Laura: A London Fog at Starbucks

For Laura, no moment was complete without a cup of her favorite drink—hot tea. She was always sipping on tea, and the London Fog was her go-to. For those who may not know, a London Fog is a cozy and comforting tea latte made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a touch of vanilla syrup. It's the kind of warm, soothing drink that Laura would sip on while walking around the Como Conservatory.

This March 26th, in honor of Laura, I’m heading to Starbucks to enjoy a London Fog and raise a cup to her memory. And because Laura loved the idea of books traveling the world, I’ll be leaving a book behind at the café. It’s a small act, but one that carries on her legacy—books that travel, connecting with readers from all corners of the globe. If you're out and about today, consider grabbing a book, finding a place to leave it, and letting it go on its own journey. You never know where it might end up.

A Legacy of Books That Travel

If you’ve been following the Books That Travel the World project, you know that it’s more than just a passion; it’s a way of connecting with others through the written word. Books have a unique way of crossing borders, of sharing stories and ideas that bring us together.  I was able to talk to Laura about the Books That Travel project before she passed, and she was so excited about the idea. She loved the thought of a book traveling from one person to another, each reader adding their own story to its journey.

On this special day, I want to update you on an exciting development regarding 'Sherwin, The Book That Traveled the World'. While Sherwin has not yet traveled to many countries, it has already begun to touch the hearts of readers, and soon, it will be republished with updated illustrations. The new artwork will breathe fresh life into the story, making it even more magical and timeless. I’m thrilled to share this update with all of you, and I know Laura would be overjoyed to see how Sherwin begins its journey around the world, inspiring new generations and spreading love, just as she did in life.

A Final Note of Love

Today, as we celebrate Laura’s 55th birthday, let’s remember the beauty of her soul and the impact she had on everyone she met. I hope that as we continue this journey of leaving books around the world, we can carry forward her legacy and keep her memory alive in every story that unfolds.

So, here’s to Laura—always remembered, always loved. Grab a London Fog, leave a book, and let’s keep the story going.

Happy 55th Birthday, Laura. I miss you every day!

With love and gratitude, Julie