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Andrea White's avatar

If anyone can make the most of retirement, it is you, Imola, but I don't think you will ever "retire" as such. as you are so full of life and ideas and projects and places to go! I too imagine growing older somewhere beautiful and inspiring. I think we share Italia as our happy place, so let's make sure we make that happen!!

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Imola's avatar

Senza dubbio we will make it happen my friend! And yes, no plans for traditional "retirement"! :) You know me too well!

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Imola,

I didn't know your architect mother is helping you remodel your Budapest apartment! You have this life that seems so exotic to me, an average suburban American mom of five who lives in Nowhere, Indiana! I wish so much I could see your apartment in person and maybe tag along as you travel the world.

It makes sense to me that you would stay put in Montreal for this time, while your daughters finish high school. But I also understand why Europe is calling you. It's likely similar to why my husband will always call the Colorado Rocky Mountains home.

Lastly, the gaslighting of your ex astounds me. But it's heartening to read that you recognized it in that moment at the restaurant where you were supposed to be enjoying each other's company. You saw it then, and you did something about it. And now you are this incredible powerhouse. I learn so much from you. And I feel honored to call you friend.

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Imola's avatar

Aw, Jeannie, this is the most loving comment! Thank you!! I feel honoured to call you friend as well. And don’t under value your life as”average” please, although I know what you mean. It may seem less “exotic” but boy, do I ever admire what you manage to accomplish in one day with 5 children and all those doctor’s appointments.

Exotic is one way to refer to my life. It’s plenty crazy too, as you know. But once my apartment in Budapest is ready, I will definitely invite you over. Maybe you can stop there on your book tour with your latest book!?

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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

HAHAHA, that’s a plan, Imola! :)

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Amelie's avatar

La cohérence est le meilleur plan de retraite possible!

Plus on est cohérent, plus on inspire les autres, merci d'être toi

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Imola's avatar

Je Suis d’accord. Mais tu le sais déjà:)

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Liam ☧'s avatar

Now this sounds exactly like a retirement plan that I would sign up for!

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Imola's avatar

You are part of this plan!

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Amy Brown's avatar

Imola, how inspiring YOU are and if I had anything to do with that inspiration to craft a retirement that is entirely of your own making, then I am glad. Your building in Budapest is beautiful; what a courtyard! Your mom is stunning (purple is my favorite color). When will you be in Barcelona? I hope it’s when I’m here. I think home exchange is a great idea. I don’t own my apartment in Barcelona or I’d definitely consider it.

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Imola's avatar

In Barcelona August 21-25. Will you be there?

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Amy Brown's avatar

I now remember we discussed this before & that’s when I’ll be in the US for a visit. So sorry to miss you!

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Imola's avatar

Yes, I remember too. Not to worry. I will be back.

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Ariana Salvo's avatar

Powerful reflections about the power of staying true to ourselves even when our path doesn’t make sense to others. Thank for for sharing! I look forward to seeing how your dream continues to unfold!

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Imola's avatar

Thank you Ariana!

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<Mary L. Tabor>'s avatar

Imola, you are an inspiration!

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Imola's avatar

As you are to me Mary! I meant to tag you but you beat me to it.

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