W E A V E :: 02

This is the second weaving I made. I love the soft pink hues and think it would look lovely in a little girl's room, or above an office desk. If you're interested in purchasing this weaving, you can contact me at Melisashell@gmail.com.

 

xo. mel

W E A V E :: 01

I've recently become smitten with weaving! I'd been wanting to try it out for awhile, and I finally saw a tutorial and went for it! I couldn't get my hands on a loom without having to wait a week or two to arrive, so I decided to make one! I loved the process and it's surprisingly easier than I had thought. It does take time and effort, but the results are beautiful. 

This weaving is hanging above our bed. I'll be making more and sharing them here. You'll also have the opportunity to purchase some of them. If that's something that interests you! 

Hope you're week is off to a great start friends!

xo. mel

A W O E :: don't lose heart

I really felt like I needed to send out some encouragement to you beautiful ladies this morning. Sometimes I have some rough days, or weeks, or months, or yes, years! And there's never really anything anyone can say to "make it better", but simply knowing that you're not going through it alone is enough. One of the incredible things that I've come to realize, is that I have been blessed with an incredible community of women. I know that at any given point, no matter the situation, I can find one (or more) friend to talk to. The older I get, the more I realize that not everyone has that. And that breaks my heart. Because as women, however strong we may be (and yes, we are!) we still need someone. We need comfort and we need encouragement and we need to know that we're not the only ones! Ya know? So, I wanted to write you today to say that you are not alone, you're not the only one facing this issue, there isn't something irreversibly wrong with you, you are not the only one feeling this way, you are not too far gone, you can still do it, there is still a plan, there is a way out, and you're going to make it. You may feel broken, or empty, or purposeless, or ugly, or unwanted, or incapable, or unable, but I know that you're whole, made with purpose, beautiful, wanted, capable and more than able of accomplishing big and wonderful things. So don't lose heart my friend. 

I know that my words aren't always the best and it's easy to dismiss just one voice, so I thought I'd collect a variety of different videos and posts that I have found so inspiring! So take a minute and let your heart be full.

Broken is the Beginning Video - Glennon Melton

Do Your Thing - Spirit and Haven

How Do You Define Yourself - Lizzie Velasquez

On Changing Dreams - Emma Chapman

A Pep Talk - Kid President

Learning As I Go - Always Rooney

Today I'm Old - Wonder Forest

I also find that looking at puppy pictures or listening to a good song, helps me feel good. Chin up.

xo. melisa

** you can read more of my words of encouragement here.

S A Y :: do what you're good at

D O   W  H A T    Y O U  ' R E    G O O D   A T 

I read these words the other day and I haven't been able to shake em. I think somehow in attempt to grow, we try our hand at things and let's be honest, we're just not that good at them. For some reason we continue to do these things, either because we're "supposed to", we feel like "we should be good at this", or simply because we want to "get better". But here's the honest truth, we should stop doing the stuff we suck at and start doing the things we're great at! Not only will our work be more satisfying, because generally we love what we're good at, but we'll create work that is great, instead of creating something mediocre. Find your strengths and build on those. Sure, we should work towards turning our weaknesses into... not weaknesses(?), but more than that, we should capitalize on our strengths. As I write this, I start to question whether or not I even know what those are. That's another thing! Sometimes we focus so much on the things we're lousy at that we don't even realize what we're great at! So, stop what you're doing (but finish reading this first), grab a pen and paper, or pull up pages, or grab your phone and open up notes - write down your strengths. For some it may be easy, but I'd venture to say a few of us will stare at our blank page for a moment or two. When we know our strengths and stop trying to "fit in" and be something we're just not, it's so freeing! Instead of being a round peg trying to fit into a square hole, stressing ourselves to be great at something we were never even intended to be good at, we can just simply be who we were created to be. We were all created with brilliant thoughts and ideas, filled with gifts and talents, brimming over with potential, so... what are your strengths? 

S A Y

Forgive me for a moment, while I air out some of my current frustrations with the world. What happened to loving ourselves? When did it become so normal to not be ourselves? What if we stopped judging ourselves and putting the blame on others? Because that's what happens isn't it? We say that others will find us repulsive if we don't wear makeup, or others will look down on us if we're not dressed a certain way. But that's mostly just talk and the root of it is in our heads. 

What if we started to own our face; the one we were born with, the one that resembles our mother's and her mother's. What if we learned to love it, short eyelashes, dark circles, sparse eyebrows and all. What if we looked in the mirror and saw all that was right, instead of all that is wrong. What if we stepped out the door with courage and boldness, not worried of how we would be perceived, but insisting that the world begin to see us for who we truly are.

What if we decided we had had enough and this became our new way of life. Would there be fires and panic? Would the world soldier on? Yes, it would do just that. And women from all around the world would lift each other up instead of tearing each other down. Comparison would no longer be an issue, and insecurity would no longer be a way of life. 

I understand that this is no small feat, but it is a goal. One that I believe we should all seek to achieve. I believe in a day where women will love themselves and not be accused of being conceited. I believe there will be a day when beauty is not measured by numbers of height and weight, but by the smiles she gives and the kindness she shares. I believe in a world where women look different and it's not just accepted, but it's applauded. Where you can look at yourself with excitement in knowing that you are not like any other out there; that you are you and that is not simply enough, but it is everything. 

I'm no longer buying into the ideal. Because "ideally", I would not fit into a specific size, or have hair a certain length, or wear a certain brand, but "ideally" I would simply learn to love myself the way I am. Every day you have the choice to be swayed by the opinions of others, thus hiding yourself under excuses - "oh it's just a bad hair day", "I didn't have enough time to get ready", "I didn't get a lot of sleep last night" - or, you can own up to who you are. We are fatally flawed, but it's our flaws that make us so perfect - they set us apart and make us unique. Without the very things we seek to rid ourselves of, we become less and less. 

Stop shrinking ladies. Stop saying you're not enough. Stop forcing yourself to stay quiet. Stop hating yourself. Love yourself. Stand up straight. Wear the clothes you feel great in. Speak your mind. Have an opinion. Share your views. Seek opportunities. You are worthy and deserving of a beautiful life. Stop believing that you are small and insignificant. You are more. You are more than what you do on a daily basis. You have more voice than you let yourself use. You have more personality than you let yourself share. You are not defined by your looks, your wardrobe, your pay or the car you drive. You are more. You are already who you want to be, you simply have to give yourself the permission to be you. 

And that's all I have to say for now.

xo. melisa

BE WELL :: define your year

" I T ' S   O F T E N   T H E   S M A L L   T H I N G S   T H A T   N O   O N E   S E E S   T H A T   R E S U L T S   I N   T H E   B I G   T H I N G S   T H A T  

 E V E R Y O N E   W A N T S  "

CRAIG GROESCHEL

I heard this quote the other day when Elisha and I were listening to his sermon. I haven't been able to get it off my mind and I love how it's made me start to see this year. If we can make small changes throughout our year, they will begin to reshape our lives and ultimately make a big difference. Seems pretty basic, right?

Well, I've decided to take the challenge and furthermore, define this year with one word; shift. I chose shift for several reasons. First off, I've had some good years and some pretty rotten ones, but I feel like I'm come to this place where I've been through the fire and God has been refining me. I feel as though I know who I want and should be, and I'm no longer leaps away, but in need of a ton of tiny adjustments. In my mind I imagine a rock covered in tiny rough edges, this year I want to smooth those edges out. I don't feel as though i'm headed down a terrible path or anything, but I do think the path could stand to be straighter (it always can). I believe little shifts in how I think, what I say and what I do, will make a big difference. Straightening up in one area, shifting my way of perceiving situations and others, stepping out of the way for God to move… these are just a few things that will help me to Shift, this year. So, instead of resolutions, lets pick a word - a word that will inspire, encourage, motivate and help us not only to accomplish goals, but to become better women. Write it down, stick it on your mirror, make it your wallpaper, get it in your head and in your heart. This year I'm going to shift.

Are you on board?! What's your focus going to be on this year? Share your word with us in the comments below!

xo. melisa

S A Y

S A Y

You will always have critics. The true task is not in pleasing them, but in being true to yourself. If you're living for someone else, you are simply not living at all. And you deserve to live. 

xo. mel

R E F L E C T

This morning I woke up a little earlier then I normally do. I had some extra time so I headed to the living room and curled up on the couch.  It's pretty chilly out so I grabbed my blanket and let in the morning sun. It was so quiet and calm. I began to reflect on these last few months and became so thankful - overwhelmed by this season in our lives. After months and years of ups and downs, I felt like I was on one of the ultimate ups. One of my biggest dreams of being a wife had come true, I was sitting in our very own space that we have come to call our home, I have a job that I love, I've gotten to spend so much time with family this last month, with the promise of a dog in the near future. life is good. It's not perfect, there are daily struggles, and even larger obstacles, but gosh life is good. Today I am full of thanks. It's nice to just sit in silence and take in all the goodness of life, isn't it?

xo. mel

Dreaming of Fall

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It may still  be 90 degrees outside and I'm currently wearing a tanktop and sandals, but I'm still hopeful for a wonderful fall! I know that some people are already fully embracing fall weather, but I'd say we have a few more weeks to endure here in Texas. I'm dreaming of chai, scarves and boots, sweaters, pumpkin spice and tights! Yes, it'll be here soon and I can't wait! What's your favorite part of fall??

xo. melisa

P I N S P I R A T I O N

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Your day is what you make of it. I know the pangs of the mundane and routine, but I also know the beauty of hard work and humble beginnings. There's magic all around us, if we will only stop to take notice. I spent some time on Pinterest yesterday and found so much inspiration. I wanted to share some of it with you.

I've been trying to find artwork for the new home - which I move into in two weeks! I'm excited to decorate the space and especially thrilled to have a nice little workspace that's all my own. Kelli Murray gave me some serious inspiration with her home tour. I'm also pretty stoked to have a full kitchen to myself and I can't wait to try some new recipes!! To see more of my recent inspiration, visit me on pinterest!

What's inspiring you these days?

xo. melisa

W E A R :: well balanced

details :: top/ free people, jeans/ h&m, shoes/target

Lately I've been attempting to master the magic of balancing. This is for sure one of the busier seasons of my life. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I'm trying to prioritize and balance those priorities for the day to day. So far it's proving difficult, but possible. I think my favorite thing to tell myself during moments like these, is - it's only a season! Knowing that there is an end, and the end will be good, gives me such peace. 

Here's to a productive week!

xo. melisa

*to see more of what I've worn, go here

D O W N L O A D :: you have what it takes

download all sizes here

A little reminder never hurt nobody. Whether you're taking on the world, tackling projects for school, being super mom, or facing ridiculous obstacles, just remember - you have what it takes.

Elisha just wrapped up a series with our students on being fearless. Fear has such a crippling effect on us and before we even realize it we're ruled by it. Ruled by the fear that we'll never be who we have the potential to be, that we will fail or be unsuccessful, fear that the lie of "I'm just not good enough" might be true. Well, it's not. You have what it takes my friend. Don't be afraid. Push yourself and find joy in the process.

xo. melisa

W I S H

Geometric Birch House from Moorea Seal , bkr Water Bottle in Chip , Calligraphy Art by Jenny Highsmith , Penny Lane Dress from Free People , iPhone case by Rifle Paper Co. , Tassel Trace Pillow from Anthropologie 

I had so much fun making my wishlist a few weeks ago, that I had to do it again. It's relaxing to just "window-shop". I'm moving in nearly a month, so I have decor on the brain. Our next big purchase will be a couch, so we've been to nearly every furniture store in the area. Are there any good furniture/home decor shops you know of online??

xo. melisa

D O W N L O A D :: iphone wallpaper

download yours here

I've been fixated on the idea of  "mountaintop moments". The moments we share with God, where we see Him like never before, and in turn see ourselves and others in new light. I shared something similar via instagram and thought I'd share a new wallpaper for le iPhone. It's a kind reminder that today can, if we allow it to, be the best day. Sometimes we hold ourselves back, sabotage ourselves with useless lies, or simply don't give in to the goodness that God has just waiting for us. So today, give in. Have a mountaintop moment and decide to make today the best!

xo. melisa

P I N S P I R A T I O N :: wedding edition

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Wedding planning has been so much fun! It's gotten to a point where we have most everything set in place and now we get to dream about the little details and decor. I love coming across great ideas, but my biggest task is finding things that are "us" and not just something I think is cute. Here is some wedding inspiration I've come across - elements that aren't necessarily us, but I still think are wonderful. Perhaps it'll be helpful for you!

xo. melisa

tips + advice :: achieving the dream

Having a dream is easy, achieving it is a whole other story. Sometimes I think we settle with simply the idea of the dream - like we're satisfied with the thought that "at least we came up with an incredible dream", but no. That's not enough friends, and you don't need to sell yourself short. Sure, sometimes the dream may come out looking a little different in the end, but if you want it bad enough, it can happen. Let's say it together, It. Can. Happen. Alright, now that we're feeling a little motivated, let me share some tips with you on achieving your dream.

B E  Y O U R S E L F :: 

It's easy to start to compare yourself to others, but the truth is you are not them and sadly they are not you. Because you are remarkable. There is no other human being like you. You bring a whole set of skills to the table that is rare and special. Why do we insist on trying to fit into anyone else's mold? I honestly think it's because we're trying to achieve perfection, and just like with any recipe, we think a pinch here and and a spoonful there, taking out a few addiditves and we have the perfect cake! You are not a cake ladies! You cannot be perfect (sorry), but you can be a perfect you. It's cheesy, I know, but c'mon, we have to learn to love ourselves. If we can't start there, then how can we ever have enough confidence to go into the business world and conquer it, or to be the next Amelia Earhart, going into unchartered territories even when we're being mocked. You're only as bold as you believe you are and you can only go as far as you're willing to.

W O R K  H A R D ::

Some may feel like this is the only step, as it is crucial and generally the most time consuming. Hard work is innevitable to any project, goal or dream. It is crucial that you capitalize on these small beginnings and not take for granted the hard work and effort that you put into your dream now. Because what they say is true - hard work does pay off. There will be a day when the late nights, crying fits, and just plain exhaustion will give way to a beautiful and brighter tomorrow. Hang in there.

Furthermore, be practical with your time. Don't work yourself into the ground and cover it up by saying, "well, I have to work hard..." No. If you're dead, then your dream is no longer. So take care of yourself! Know when enough is enough and call it a day. Utilize your time wisely and plan accordingly.

D O  W H A T  Y O U ' R E  P A S S I O N A T E  A B O U T ::

Reexamine your dream; make sure it is in fact worth all of the time and effort you're putting into it. If it's something you're truly passionate about then the work won't always be work, it'll be fun and enjoyable. It will be a joy to go to work and invest in something you believe in. Follow your heart and trust your instincts. There are characteristics that are innate to your being that are propelling you towards something great. So when you feel an urge to move, for goodness sake, take the leap!

N I X  T H E  C O M P L A I N I N G ::

I fall victim to the complaining monster all too often. It's natural to air your frustrations or worry, but at some point, enough is enough. First of all, because your loved ones (no matter how much they love you or say they don't mind) do not want to hear you complaining constantly. We have to be secure enough to know that people see our battle, they may not feel it but they know it's there. Secondly, we can't find strength in people knowing our weaknesses, we should find strength in knowing that our trials are merely practices making us stronger each day. Believe that "what I'm doing is building my own personal empire, something I am proud of and I consider it an honor to be a part of." 

I should state, it is healthy to have a confidant, someone to lean on and go to for advice and help. This is healthy. If you can schedule a time of the week to meet with such a person and be able to talk through the things you would normally complain about on a daily basis, that would be great! Complaining only makes you more aware of the issues. Talking gets you answers.

D O N ' T  L I S T E N  T O  T H E  N A Y S A Y E R S ::

Can I just say, from personal experience, that sometimes, people have no idea what they are talking about. Yes, sometimes people are purely selfish and terrible. Not everyone is going to agree with your dream. Not everyone is going to back you. Not everyone is going to share kind words with you and in fact they may try to tear you down. This mostly stems from their own issues of inadequacy or their inability to imagine the impossible. You however can, you see beyond the expected and understand that possibilities are indeed within your reach. You must have confidence and boldness. When you're asked to step out of the boat and walk on water, you have to do it! Even when the people around you don't understand it, don't believe it and are telling you not to. It's unfortunate that not everyone has the best intentions, but I do firmly believe that there are few that we encounter that would shut our dream up, because they care. It's because they understand the pressure, the amount of work and effort it'll take out of you, the tired nights and what it may do to you emotionally. They understand on a deeper level how it might change you if you fail, and we can't blame them for being realistic. And at times their voices will come in and try and quiet your passionate heart, but in those moments remember to be strong and not so easily swayed. 

Please note that you are the only one who can judge a person's true intentions when it comes to your dream. If they have your best interest at heart, listen to their concerns, but with all things, take everything with a grain of salt. Use your ability of discernment to take in the good and let the rest fall by the wayside.

T A K E  Y O U R  W E L L N E S S  I N T O  C O N S I D E R A T I O N ::

Staying healthy is a responsibility. It's something that must be tended to if we are wishing to operate to our fullest. This covers everything from our mind, body and soul. A little rest and relaxation is crucial. I'll be the first to admit that not doing anything - as in having free time - is very difficult for me. Mostly because I have every hour of my day planned with something, so anytime I don't, I immediately think, "okay, who can I meet with, or what can I work on, since I have time." People, that is so not okay. I literally have to force myself sometimes to just sit in bed and watch a show without doing anything else. My first instinct is to grab my computer and work on a post while I watch, or work on some sort of craft and deem it hobby. Which, may be true, but for me, it gets me in "work mode" and that's the opposite of what I'm trying to achieve. Work in time to relax, because you deserve it.

H A V E  P A T I E N C E ::

It's going to take time. I'm sure you already know this, and honestly it's the one step I know the most about. So much of my life has seemed to have taken 5 times as long to get to than I would've planned. When we envision our life, it makes the most sense to plan for things to just happen, but that's not always realistic. the one statement I've held on to when it comes to being patient is "If it's worth having, it's worth waiting for." If I'm not willing to give up on it, then it must mean something more to me and therefore, it is worth my energy and my time. Be patient and persevere.

E N J O Y  T H E  M O M E N T ::

We talked about the work, the worry, the people who may not believe in you, the waiting and now what... ? The fun! Yes, you can actually enjoy this time in your life. However hectic or crazy it may be, it is still your life and it is still you making your dream happen! That is exciting and something you will never get to relive! I do this thing with the Mr. where I'll randomly stop what we're doing and say "this is real, this is our life.". It's good to take a step and just breathe it all in. Sometimes stating the obvious can be the most revelational thing. We get so used to being who we are because we're changing slowly each day, but have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and thought, I look different? We're changing right before our eyes, and we rarely even recognize it. In the same way, our lives are changing everyday in tiny ways and we need to stop to recognize it! Enjoy this time because you won't get it back - it'll be the days that you look back on when you're living your dream, and think back fondly on. 

I hope this was helpful for you and where you're at in life. I believe that we are all capable of doing and being more than we ever thought possible, if we're only willing. If you want change, then start to change; only you can change your circumstance! Go after the dream!

For other helpful tips and advice, you can scroll through this archive.

xo. melisa

good reads

I really love this feature because I get a chance to relax, read and get inspired by all of the lovely ladies out in the blogging world. These are some of my favorite posts that I came across. 

T I P S  +  A D V I C E 

To Women :: The Flowerchild Dwelling

Make It Happen - Growing Your Dream Business :: Maie Dae

Living With a Positive Outlook :: Sea, Field & Tribe

My Favorite Apps :: Jenny Highsmith

Installing and Customizing Apps on Facebook :: High Walls

Be Free, Lance : Strengths :: Breanna Rose

I N S P I R A T I O N + F R E E B I E S

Work In Progress :: Oana Befort

In the Details // My Kitchen :: Bubby & Bean

Wallpaper 16 : Ordinary :: Breanna Rose

An Almost DIY :: Chalk White Arrow

D O  I T  Y O U R S E L F 

Avocado Face Mask :: Sincerely, Kinsey

Ombre Enamel Flatware :: High Walls

Wax Resistant Watercolor Cards :: Oh My Deer

10 Ways to Make a Cocktail Stick :: A Beautiful Mess

Design Guide - Paper :: Emmadime

Coconut + Honey Hair Mask :: Sincerely, Kinsey

R E C I P E S

Banana Chocolate & Nutella Popsicles :: Amanda K by the Bay

Matcha Tea Lemonade :: The Perfect Pair

Domestic Arts & Banana Bread :: Her Library Adventures

Black Bean & Yam Burger :: Amanda K by the Bay

Lemon Blueberry Profiteroles :: Tabitha Emma 

Classic Sopapillas :: A Beautiful Mess 

Ice Cream Bread :: High Walls

Iced Coconut Green Tea Latte :: Amanda K by the Bay

Color Crush :: Rust

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I'm not usually a huge fan of red, but as of late I can't get enough. Furthermore, I am obsessed with this rust color! Again, this is generally more of an Autumn hue, but with the right pops of color, it works as a great compliment! So what are your thoughts? If you can't get enough of rust either, check out my Pinterest board here.

xo. melisa

Shady Lady

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Sunnies are maybe my favorite part of Summer! I have a wide collection and yet I continue to add to it each year. These are some of my favorites, and I will probably be adding a pair (...or two!) to my own collection! I've had my eye on 3 and 5 for quite some time! Which are your favorite?

If you'd like some more sunny inspiration, you can check out my pinterest board!

xo. melisa