When Ben and I built this house I knew I wanted an amazing closet.  You know, the one that you find on Pinterest and drill through a bag of salty goodness {whatever your vice may be} and then realize that your bag of Pirate’s Booty is gone…. And so is that dream that will never come true.  Why is it that we do this?  I mean, why can’t we peel the picture off of the magazine and place it with the four walls we call our home? We just need to stop.  We need to stop telling ourselves that these things can’t be possible.  Our dreams ARE possible and they are within reach.  We just need to figure out how to get there.  And so the story begins…

On June 15, 2013 we sign on the dotted line for a house with zero closets.  I mean, there was a room.  But there wasn’t a single shelf, rod, basket… nada.  So, I agreed.  I told my hubby I would hang my clothes off of 2×4’s.  Yes.. two by fours for a full year while we saved up.  Little do you know my hubby majored in Tetris.  You know, that degree where you figure out how to fit as much “crap” into a small space and make it work.  This was beyond ridiculous; but you just wait for it.  He built this contraption out of giant saw horses that made to look like a giant tee pee.  See Exhibit A:

 

I made him promise me this wouldn’t last more than a year.  Thank God he’s a man of his word.  So, we did what every couple did without an ounce of reality…. We called up California Closets and got a quote.  {Gulp.}  Five. Thousand. Dollars.  Are you kidding me?? My clothes aren’t even worth $5000!!!! And half of the clothes I have in my closet are from high school and college… I’m just holding onto all hope that ONE day I may fit into them again.  Heck NO.  No way. Back to the drawing board.

When a mountain climber meets a mountain what does he do…. He climbs.  So I got out my paper and I began to draw.  Slowly but surely my vision began to become a reality.  I envisioned it lifted off of the ground… Like a piece of furniture.

I then pictured symmetrical sections on each side to keep balance.  With two of my hanging light fixtures from my very first apartment in Indianapolis from 2006.  I believe, in order make a room truly tell a story you must marry the old with the new.  I also knew I wanted bead board behind the walls.  I had to give it depth… Texture.  I had to play into the richness of textures even though I knew my wardrobe likely wouldn’t represent.

And the sections… How would I divide out the space to maximize storage without it feeling “too” heavy?  And how would I get all of those dresses in this closet from the “13 weddings and counting” that I had been in in years past?  Okay, maybe not thirteen… but I have a lot of organza on my hands people!! You have no idea.  Meet my solution…

This is the moment where my husband questioned our union of marriage.  Okay, I could be exaggerating… But he knows when I get an idea in my head.  It’s nearly impossible to shake it.  I then said this…

“What if, perhaps, Benny Boo Boo, we could take this thing to the ceiling…”

“It IS to the ceiling.”

“No, I mean, to the ceiling??  Crown molding, 6″ trim, a 12″ header….. Like to THE ceiling”

“Whatever you’re dreaming up in your mind, take a good picture.  Because there is NO way that’s happening…”

Exhibit B  😉

Thank GOD, after seven years he can read my mind.  Because, he hit the nail on the head.  This was it.  Trimmed to perfection.  It was just as I had imagined… BETTER than my Pinterest Dream.

Every detail finished matters…. Just like in life.  It’s the details that count.

And the boxes awaiting to house their new HOME goods.

Here, the lighting that tells a story… With soft scaping to balance the hard scaped shelves and drawers.

Trim that adds height and vertical dimension.  With hardware that is completely opposite:  Slender, thin and horizontal.

The good news.  A beautiful closet.  The bad news.  I had to sell all of my clothes to make this a reality.

Okay, maybe not.  I wouldn’t have a job if that were the case.  But I will tell you, I made this dream come to life for less than half of what California Closets quoted us.  What does this mean, California Closets can go back to California and my clothes…. They can come back HOME.  XO

The first part to this series is an organizational solution to Kennedy’s closet.  Who knew you “needed” so many baby items?!  Deep down, we all know you don’t.  However, when you have your first little one those that love you are happy to bless you with all of the fun, {oh, you HAVE to have this!} things that every mom desires.  What to do next? Find a new home for these goods in the midst of nesting mode and your bound to realize a solution that blows anything store bought out of the park.  When I began this project I knew I had three things to balance.  Number one, a lack of space; number two, many baby goods that needed a new home; and number three, a storage solution that was not only attractive but also cost friendly.  So what is the solution to all of this? A fabric storage bin from Target with a little flare to spice things up 😉

 

So let’s talk about how to create these on your own.  You will need five things: a hot glue gun, ribbon, chalkboard for the front, a chalk marker and a tote of your choice.  But, before you do anything, you’re going to want to measure your space.  This is important!  And, if you have a blank space, this is even better.  Just make sure that your shelving is able to maximize the storage needed for the area you desire to organize.  The last thing you want to do is to trick out one of these puppies and have your little one hear you frustrated because your square peg doesn’t fit in a round hole. 😉  You follow?  Good!  I knew I loved these fabric totes…  They were simple, functional, cost effective and gave me a blank canvas to take in any direction that I chose.

The first thing I did was to lay out all of my items in front of me on the counter.  Now, deep down I should share I have roots that stick with me from my grandparents living through the depression… So, I am cheap!  With that being said, I only wrapped the ribbon around the front and midway on both sides.  Not all the way around the bin.  First step, cut your ribbon to the length you desire and glue (with the hot glue gun) one drop on each end.  Don’t glue the entire ribbon down from end to end.  Number one, you’re not preparing this guy to withstand gale force winds; and number two you don’t want that crinkled look from the glue drying to take away from the simplicity of the project.  In this case, less is really more.  Love that!

Once you get your ribbon cut and glued to your tote.  Then, adhere the chalkboard to the front!  It will be dry in literally seconds.  Then you can go ahead a label your new signage to the bin you just beautifully created.  It really couldn’t be any easier than that.

Now, a few tips: I purchased all of these items from Michael’s.  So, if you’re looking for a one stop shop, this is your place.  I wish I had a picture of this chalkboard piece before I attached it to this tote.  Because, essentially it had a stick (picture a popsicle stick) attached to the back of this chalkboard sign.  It’s use was likely intended to be placed in an herb garden or a birthday cake… But I knew it was perfect for this project. So, I just ripped that stick off because I loved the shape of the chalkboard part itself.  As for the ribbon, I actually layered two.  I loved the look of the opaque lacy flowers but I also wanted a material that had some substance to class it up.  That’s when I found that very thin strand of jewels to adhere to the bottom of the lacy ribbon. The chalk marker?  You can find that in the bridal section of Michael’s.  Trust me, it was the last place I looked; but isn’t that how it always goes?  Below you can see a few of the categories I chose to use in my creation. 🙂

Now, not only do I have storage solutions for bath time, socks, wipes, diapers, toys, littles {outgrown clothing} 12 months, 18 months and 24 month clothing… I also have something that makes me happy when I walk into her closet.  Because I know it’s personal and although they’re not perfect, they’re special.  And in life it’s those things that really count in the end. May this empower and inspire you to do the same in your HOME!

XO,

Melissa

So let me start out by saying, thank God my New Year’s Resolution was not to simplify.  If so, that deal was done on January 2nd, the day I returned back to work!  To be completely transparent, I’m running in way too many directions right now.  I literally feel like I’m at the center of a crossroad and my heart is moving one direction and my mind is moving in another.  Can you identify? If you can, please tell me how do I get these two on the same path?  That’s the million dollar question..  Since January 1st, I’ve fallen more in love with our daughter Kennedy after spending a good week at home with her.  I’ve also fallen in love with a new skin care line called Nerium that has been put on the back burner because of my day job.  And, do I need to state the obvious.. I simply love creating beautiful spaces in my home.  How in the heck do I marry these three?? I promise you this is not going to turn into a self-help blog; nobody’s got time for that.  But what I did want to give you was a slice of transparency.  And if you’re taking the time to read this, you deserve to know what’s around the corner. 🙂

So, in this next month I’m going to embark on a design series that focuses on “Organization Made Beautiful.”  When I think of organized, I think of a cubby system from kindergarden.  This is not what your little miss has in store.  My goal for you is to make these spaces equally as functional as beautiful.  Think, organized ways to whittle your waist.  😉 Or, fun crafts to do with your kids!  This is really a two for one deal folks… Get the kiddos occupied and teach them how to respect your tidiness??  C’mon, that’s a home run! So, in the next month expect the unveiling of my masterfully created master closet, our farmer’s market pantry, Kennedy’s closet system and how to utilize unique pieces to gain a tidy, organized space you call your own.  I look forward to sharing this all with you in the days to come!

May God bless you all and your HOME.

XO,

Melissa

I’m a visionary.  I always have been and I’m pretty sure that’ll never change.  I always know the goal but it’s a challenge for me to put the steps in place to get there.  That’s why creating short, little goals has always been essential for me to be successful in life.  It’s funny the things you remember in life.  I can remember ten years ago at my Annual Girl’s Christmas Party back home in MI I was asked what I wanted to do… And all I knew is that I wanted to help create beautiful things.  I wasn’t sure what that was… Was it helping people become their best selves? Creating beautiful spaces? Making others feel beautiful on the outside knowing we all struggle inside with our own baggage?  Who really knows… All I’m sure of is that God has a plan.  And, His is always best.  I just need to persevere, remain positive and focus on that which is before me and do my very best.  That’s always been the goal.  I just truly believe that if you give it your very best every single day, you’ll never have regret.  Because you gave it your best and in any moment that’s all that really matters in the end.

So, what now? It’s December 31st and a full year of firsts lie before us.  What will we do with these 365 days?  My challenge to us all including myself is to do these five things below:

1.) Focus on the POSITIVE. I don’t know anyone who can’t benefit from this.  Here’s an example, when I came into the position I am currently in today our numbers were in the last 30% of the country.  I remember saying at the time, I know we can be at 110% at the end of the year.  That’s my goal! As soon as I said that statement aloud, with one swift breath, the wind was taken out of my sails.  According to some, we would be lucky to finish slighly above 100%.  It’s in the moments like these that we are defined.  I refused to believe this and from that point on we worked tirelessly to get to the top.  Believe in exceptional results and you will get exceptional results.  Believe you can and you will pave the way for your dreams to come true.  Two years later, we’re at the top of the country and if I were to give credit to anyone I would give it to the Lord.  Why?  Because He gave me strength when I wanted to give up.  It was always my goal to get in one more call… And to impact one more customer for the patient.  There’s no way I could do it alone and there’s no way you can either.  That’s why it’s so important to surround yourself with GOOD people.  These are the people that build you up, that won’t let you fall and that care about you before their personal gain.  Lesson in the story, don’t settle for someone else’s standards of you.  Define your own and always, beat your best.

2.) Do Something SelfLESS Everyday.  Did I say, everyday?? Yes, everyday.  You’ve got to be crazy… If you remember one thing from this post, remember this.  Let go and let GOD.  In this past year, I’ve given more than I ever have and I’ve been blessed more than I ever have in my life.  I’ve given more of my time, my finances and more of myself to others.  And I feel more fulfilled than ever.  Now I will say, I have had an extremely challenging year as well.  However, I’ve always leaned on God before I’ve leaned on man.  What does this look like for you?  What can you give?  Can you give ten extra seconds of your time to hold open the door for a woman that’s thirty paces away from you?  Can you give your credit card back to the man at the drive thru to pay for the person behind you?  Can you look up and smile at the person walking past you that’s so focused on their destination that they don’t make time to enjoy the journey?  Can you take your child that you feel like was too greedy during the holidays to serve somewhere at a local shelter or in the community at an event?  What? You feel like you don’t have time on the weekends?  Well my friends, there will never be time unless you make it.  Make it happen today.  What if this is your last year?  You only have so much time to pour into your soul… Why put it off when the best you is just waiting to happen.  Why are you not good enough to tap into that spirit now? Give to others and it will bless you more than you could ever dream.

3.) Establish a new weekly activity and make that a routine. Define one goal that you currently would like to achieve personally or with your family and make it happen.  Let’s say the goal is getting into your Bible more. When are you most focused and when do you have that one time in your day that is uninterrupted? Identify when that is and make it yours.  Maybe you want to do family meals together, but you don’t have time? Set aside time on Sundays to pre-make three family meals for the week.  I guarantee you that if you plan for it, it will happen.  Life will happen no matter what.  But it’s the intentionality that makes these moments in life really separate themselves from the rest.

4.) Create One BIG Goal To Achieve This Year.  This one’s simple.  Write it down and make it happen.  What’s one big thing you want to do this year?  It could be a summer camping trip with your kids out west. Maybe its hosting a Bible Study or Life Group at your home…  Getting involved with a Charity? Or, just finally committing to being happy and feeling at peace with your personal baggage.  Whatever it is, identify what is getting in your way of your goal and ask a close friend or someone you trust, how to remove it.  Often times, it’s those around us that know us the best; but, they may not share these thoughts with you for fear it may hurt you.  But, if you ask willingly, more than likely, they will tell you the truth.  If someone tells you something you don’t like to hear, ask yourself first, Does this person have my best interest at heart?  Is there a grain of truth in what he/she has shared?  And does this person reflect the fruits of the spirit?  Meaning does this person possess kindness, gentleness, patience, etc.  If the answer to all three of these questions are yes; then listen wholeheartedly to what they have to tell you.  Remember, when you treat a cut, it tends to sting a little before it heals properly.

5.)  Be financially Savvy To Plan For The Future.  This one is also simple in theory but hard to do.  Decide where you want to be in 10 years, 5 years and 1 year and make small steps to get there.  For me, I create spreadsheets that outline exactly what I have to spend every month.  It may sound crazy, but I can tell you what I spent in 2012.  I know… Nerd Alert!  But, I once read those that lead a happier life are those that spend money on an experience rather than a tangible item.  So, I need to hold myself accountable to make those experiences happen for my family.  I believe it’s because experiences deliver memories which then bring positive thoughts and heart warming moments you’ll never forget.  I can’t tell you the last time a pretty pillow brought me profound joy.  Now, am I really telling you to forego your home good purchases?  Heck no!  But I am telling you to ask yourself before every purchase, is this a need or a want?  And if it’s a want, what am I really chasing?  Am I trying to do this to please others?  Or, does this item serve a functional purpose for my home?  Two totally separate things here.  I also set challenging goals for our family.  So, I tend to think, ‘Am I going to let this mirror stand in the way of me and my goal?’ Probably not.  If it doesn’t pay the bills around here, its going to have to prove a major case to earn it’s keep here in our home! 

If you’ve taken a step back to look at these from a 1,000 foot view, you’ll see that we’ve addressed long-range vision planning and short-term planning.  First we focused on the immediate and then transitioned into the long-range.  I believe, you have to be present in one another to take full advantage of both.  It’s a fine line but you can achieve both successfully with proper planning.  If you have any others to add, please feel free to share.  This is a safe place that drives traffic where others can learn from and take into their own home.  So, here’s to creating the BEST YET for you and those you love in 2015!! Say it with me… Happy New Year and May God Bless those you love and the beautiful place you call HOME!

Peace, Love & Joy,

Melissa

 

 

 

With only three days until Christmas I need to get my act together and give you a couple more great ideas you can pull together before you have that house full of crazy people you call family. 😉 Here is one of my absolute favorites!  See my faux garland on the fritz and steal this idea below:

 

 

 

So, what’s exactly going on here?  What I’ve done is taken three large fake branches of pine needles and deconstructed them.  I then took each individual branch and weaved them in between the candles and placed one to two pine cones in each section.  What’s great is that these branches are accessible to you all, now!  I purchased these at Joanna Gaine’s Magnolia Market Shop.  {The very own host of Fixer Upper.}  Click here to see exactly what they look like and buy for your home.  This is my favorite part… Are you ready? These were originally $14 now on sale for $3.50!  They are gorgeous quality and don’t look faux; these branches truly look real and are almost 4 feet tall.  Multiply that out against the next 10 years or more you plan to use these and you’ve paid pennies for them.  Now, if you’re not up for the shipping and need them ASAP I would recommend Michael’s or Hobby Lobby.  Either one of these stores will likely have what you’re looking for to copy this look.  Another good idea, deconstruct an old wreath that you’re not so crazy about these days.  I bet you have something like this marinating in an old box downstairs or in the attic and you don’t even know it! Think repurpose people… 🙂 And if you want the real deal, head down to your local tree stand and kindly ask for some left over branches and scraps to achieve the authentic look you want. 

That’s all for today.  But let me leave you with one more pic just because I love this look that much. ❤

 

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS!!

WELCOME YOUR LOVED ONES HOME. 

Peace & Love, Miss

 

Have you ever wondered why we celebrate Christmas on December 25th?  What’s the reasoning that He chose to bring new life into the world when everything around us is dead? As I ponder the answer to this question I feel at peace as to the belief that inevitably leads me to my conclusion.  His gift of greatness to this world was purely intentional and His timing was perfect. In the middle of darkness, there was light.  And within this light is everlasting life.  Which brings me to my next design inspiration. In this design, I’ve taken the names of all of those that have either been taken to Heaven or have been Heaven sent in this past year.

In the past 365 days, I’ve been to more funerals and visitations than I can count on one hand.  On the other hand, we’ve had more babies bless our lives than ever before.  And the one thing these two extremes have in common – these sweet souls have found new life.  Which is why I’ve created a tree in our home called Our Angel Tree.  This tree not only reflects the light these very special people have brought to our life; but also is a special tribute of the time they shared with us.  Young or old, my heart has been touched by each and every one of them.  And one thing reigns true, whether these faces have just graced our lives for the very first time or have left our lives too soon, we can’t imagine life without you.

 

 

 

 

Please forgive me, I didn’t share each and every one of them with you.   One reason, two of these tags have the names of children that are due anyday; and I love these women enough to keep my mouth shut.  But more importantly, quickly scrolling trough each and every one of these names just to get to the bottom of this design story doesn’t do their life one bit of justice.  To the family of these loved ones.  We still remember those that you loved so much… We hear you.  And more importantly, God hears you.  You are loved.  We have not forgotten the laughs, tears and stories that made their life unforgettable.  It’s just hard to put into words the right thing to say when we see you.  Forgive us, because sometimes our hearts just can’t commnicate with our mouths when we hear your voice on the phone.  Just know this, thier lives will always live on in our heart; and that’s the one place they occupied from the very beginning.

May you all feel His peace, love and everylasting joy this Christmas Season.

Love you all,

Melissa

 

From eclectic to sophisticated, dressing your Christmas tree is just another way to express your design style at home.  And I’m guessing through the years, this style has changed just a bit in that little place you call your own.  Because this is the seventh year I’ve had the luxury of “decking my own halls” I’d like to share a few things with you I’ve learned along the way.  But first let me share a picture with you, my very own vision come true.

 

In my world, it all starts with a vision.  What’s great about this amazingly simple design idea is that the journey is just as great as the destination.  Simply follow these steps below and you’ll see.

1. Have a Vision & Seize a Shopportunity.  I always knew I wanted a BIG tree…. Until I discovered the price tag.  Do you know how much a 10 foot tree is?? Let’s just say it’s a few benjamins over what I was about to pay.  So, when my husband and I discovered Gerdt Furniture Store was going out of business, I thought this is the moment where your vision meets opportunity.  Gerdt celebrates Christmas right? And, they no longer would need a 10 foot Christmas tree… So that’s when we bought theirs for $25.  You got that right.  Talk about a deal of a century.  Rule number one, think outside the box.

2. Let Your Bargains Multiply.  I’ve always loved champagne taste with my beer budget.  This is why I knew to create this vision it would take a little time and patience on my part.  This may sound crazy but I’m the first one to open the doors at Target on December 26th.  You get the best selection at the best price.  I shop for everything from coordinating ornaments in bulk, to wrapping paper that compliments one another, gift tags, tree lights and even generic gift bags that I can use for those random gifts I like to surprise my special friends with year round.  They literally have everything I need for next year at the best price.   You may call it crazy… But when I tell you I designed this Christmas tree for under $250, tree included, you’ll be lining up next year right along with me. 😉

3. Mix the Biggins with the Littles. What exactly does this mean?  My philosophy has always been layering pieces to create a beautiful look.  One trick I like to do is to mix one long strand of big lights with four to five strands of small ones.  First put your small lights on the tree as you normally would and then start from the top to the bottom and wrap the tree in larger lights. But, wrap them tightly.  As in, keep them as close to the trunk as possible to draw interest and depth to your tree.  That way your don’t have any big bulky bulbs hanging on the end of your limbs that look messy.  When you do this, your tree will naturally glow from the inside out.

4. Layer the Silver & Gold. I love the ornaments that are covered in silver and gold glitter that look like leaves and branches.  Do you know what I’m talking about?  If you do, good.  If not, see below.  When you find them on sale grab at least 30.  You’re going to use these to stick in your tree branches upright.  And when you place them into your tree, try to place them next to a big bulb so that it reflects the beautiful light in a multitude of directions.  This will essentially create the depth you are after and the beautiful layering effect you see so often in department stores.  It’s the link between the lights and the ornaments that pulls it all together. 

5. Find Your Style.  This is where it gets fun.  Find a theme and go with it.  Because I love a look that’s timeless I know glass, silver and gold will never go out of style.  That’s just me.  You can totally go with a playful theme and do teal bulbs with feathers, crimson red and gold ribbon,  or burlap and paisley prints… Find whatever reflects your style and run with it.  Because our tree is so tall, I went with ornaments that draw your sight line vertically.  So, on our tree you’ll see a lot of glass icecycles, tall faux copper structures, long spiral globes and slender acorns.  This draws your visual interest vertically which then flows throughout the tree.  There’s just one rule here… Whatever you do, be creative and have fun!

 

 

May these little ideas spark your interest and get you inspired to create the tree you’ve always envisioned in your little place you call HOME.

God Bless,

Melissa

I’ve always believed that design is a lot like getting dressed in the morning.  The more layers, the more flexibility you have in your design.  And typically, ladies, you’ll throw on that last-minute item that tends to “make the look.”  It may be as timeless as your wedding ring, a gorgeous necklace you snagged off of a great sale or a classic watch layered with bangles.  No matter what that is to you, it’s special in its own right and tends to bring your wardrobe to your life.  And whether you realize it or not it tells a little story about who you are to the world.

To me, in the home, a lighting fixture is like the jewel of a day’s wardrobe.  You can take the simplest of spaces and completely transform it by changing the light fixture.  So what do you do at Christmas time; simply add greenery.  Here are just a few spaces I would love to share with you, transformed for the holiday season.

 

Our Back Mudroom

 

A Closer Look for Contrast

Our Dining Room Orb

A Mirror To Reflect the Greenery

Wreaths Made for Simply More Than A Door

The Layering Effect

The beautiful thing about this design element is that it is kid friendly.  The greens are high enough that little hands won’t get their fingers on them.  I’m learning how important this is these days. 😉  I know, check back with me next year and I can guarantee these glass place settings won’t make it for more than an hour!  But, I firmly believe in maximizing every season of life and this is one of them.  Life is made to enjoy; so don’t wait for tomorrow.  Because all you are guaranteed is today with the ones you love.

Now, this post wouldn’t be complete without a friendly tip from my very own local, handsome, fireman husband.  Parents, be sure to check the watt of your bulb before you put live greenery near lighting for an extended period of time.  Most lights are 25 – 40 watts.  With that being said, you should be fine.  But, please beware.  These particular greens are from Pottery Barn and are not the real deal.  However, a beautiful trick is to mix the two textures to create a fuller, even more vibrant effect.  Go to your local Christmas Tree dealer and I’m sure they’ll sell or even give you a few loose broken branches to use in your very own home.  But don’t forget, if he/she gives it to you for free… You must pass it on.  Maybe a warm Starbuck’s Hot Chocolate would be the perfect, thoughtful touch?  Because that’s what it’s really about.  Being a blessing to all those you meet.  Merry Christmas, friends! Enjoy this weekend with your beauties at HOME. 🙂 XO

Stockings mean a little something special at our home.  As a little girl, seeing one filled to the brim on Christmas morning meant that Santa remembered me.  I felt special.  I felt loved.  And most importantly, I felt significant. So, in looking at the stockings that hang in my home today, it brings back those memories of a time where my wants were the only ones that mattered; and my hope was full in a red sock filled with gummy bears.  I’m sure you may have felt the same without even being aware; even though those days may seem like a lifetime ago. 

Let me just say, the beautiful thing about being a parent is that we get to bring that dream come alive in our children.  The first thing that I did on Christmas morning as a little girl was run down my stairs full of joy, hope and anticipation that Santa had filled my stocking with what I had asked for on my list.  And every year he did, I felt like I had mattered.  What did this really mean?  I was a kid that was a big dreamer who chose to believe in this Christmas fairytale until the 6th grade.  I know what you’re thinking…. The question is, what do I want for my children?  I want Kennedy to believe in the “magic” of the season; but I also want her to understand the reason for the season.  To our family, it’s to give thanks… In all circumstances.  Not to just have hope in a big man in a red suit whom enters your home through forced entry.  But first and foremost, for her to put her hope in Jesus.  That’s why I’ve designed this part of my home to reflect both.  Below you’ll see exactly what I’ve created to make this space come to life.

 

 

As you may know from my previous posts, I am all about layering in my designs.  Not only in textures but also as it relates to the meaning one space has in your home.  The first thing I had to do was think outside the box.  Stockings don’t necessarily have to be hung over a fireplace.  In this case, I’ve chosen to hang them on a wall of shiplap that serves as high wainscoting.  And, do you see that shiplap wall?  I actually decided to layer that in two colors of paint (paris grey & old white).  Then, I sanded these gorgeous boards down to see the beautiful woodgrain and reveal it’s natural beauty in a raw state.  Next, I hung our stockings with care; all to be paired next to a sign that gives meaning to the space.  This truly is the anthem for our home – giving, not just recieving.  And last but certainly not least, do you see that mango wood dish on the right end of the table? This is the bowl that for every day in November, our family can write one thing they’re thankful for.  It may seem cliche.  But my hope is to fill our home with positive thoughts and love that will fill their little hearts with happiness and joy that will lead them with a lifetime of memories.

My hope is that you’ll see I’m truly passionate about leading a purpose filled life.  And I hope by allowing these posts to pour into you, you’ll lead more of an intentional life as well.  Now more than ever, it’s important to focus on what is good in the world.  As Ghandi once said, “Be the Change in the World That You Wish to See.”  I couldn’t agree more.  It is my belief that Jesus came into this world to change the world; and for everyday that I’m alive, I hope to be just that.  Not talk about change… Be The Change.  My prayer is that you may answer His calling for your life wherever you may be.  And, that you may take a few ideas from this heartfelt inspiration above and implement them into the very place you call HOME.

Merry Christmas Friends,

Melissa