Your day, always.

Today is my Nan’s birthday.

She isn’t here to celebrate with us, but in many ways…she always is.

She loved in a way that filled every room. She gave the kind of hugs that linger, the kind of love that still wraps around you even after she’s gone. She said I love you so often that it became the soundtrack of our family. And even now, years later, her voice still echoes in mine.

My Nana is the “heart and soul” behind @ilyheartnsoul. She is the reason I believe in saying I love you as often as you can, in giving the best hugs, in making people feel seen, safe, and cared for. She taught me that life is fragile, but love is not — it stretches far beyond the years we’re given.

Today I celebrate her, not with gifts or balloons, but with gratitude.

Gratitude that I had someone in my life whose love was so strong, it left an imprint I’ll carry forever.

Gratitude that through this brand, I get to share even a fraction of her legacy with the world.

So, Happy Birthday, Nan.

This space — every word, every reminder, every piece of this mission — is a tribute to you.

And to you, reading this:

May today remind you to celebrate the ones you love.

Don’t wait. Say it, show it, live it. Love loudly. Love with your whole heart and soul.

This Week’s Prompt:

Write a letter to someone you’ve lost, sharing how you would celebrate their birthday today. What traditions would you keep? What new ways of honoring them would you create?

From my heart to yours,

Mercedes

Founder | @ilyheartnsoul

P.S.

If you’re missing someone today, honor them by doing their favorite thing. It’s a simple way to feel their presence again. 🤍