Five Ways To Make Home A Happy Place

Today we are sharing five ways to make home a happy place. We are big believers in filling our homes with things that we love and creating an atmosphere of love and peace. From fresh blooms to cozy throws and everything in-between, below are five ways to make your home the place that you love to be the most.

BLOOMS

There is nothing that brings us more joy than fresh blooms. We love the way it adds color and life to a room in such a pure, natural way.  It is easy to fall into a routine of only shopping for blooms when having guests over, but we encourage the idea of buying blooms just because they make you and your home happy.

NEAT AND TIDY

Keeping things orderly is key for a happy space. The way to achieve this easily is to not have too much stuff and make sure that everything has a "place". Doing so will prevent clutter and make it easy to put things away. A neat and tidy space makes for a clear and focused mind! Plus it is so much easier to relax and unwind in a room that is free of unnecessary clutter.

COZY AND COMFORTABLE

Bring on the pillows, rugs, and throws. Having cozy textures and soft things to snuggle up with on the couch or bed is so important. It is so comforting and peaceful to unwind after a long day on a cozy couch with a warm throw. Soft textures definitely create a sense of safety and comfort which are both home-y feelings that everyone desires inside a home.

BEAUTIFULLY IMPERFECT

No home is perfect and that is such a refreshing truth. There is such a beautiful, authentic, and real thing about a home that is clearly lived-in and enjoyed on a day-to-day basis. Yes we are against clutter, but there is a certain element of imperfection that makes a house a home. For example, don't fret if you haven't vacuumed when you should have or if there is some laundry back-up occurring. This is life! Embrace it and let it go :)

ALL ABOUT THE LOVE 

When it comes down to it, it is not the things in your home that matter; it is the people and the love inside the home that are most important. The true substance of a home is the love that is found inside and the positive, loving, encouraging, and happy atmosphere that is found within the walls. If you live alone, this is possible as well! Love yourself and show love to others by inviting people over, calling loved ones, and having loving thoughts.  A home filled with love is one that you will look forward to coming home to day after day.

a few home things that we are loving...

Table for One

Have you ever gone to a restaurant and asked for a table for one? If not, we are here today to encourage you to do so and talk through the initial discomfort that ultimately brings so much confidence, growth, and joy! Last month in NYC, I had lunch for one at the cutest restaurant, Friend of a Farmer, and enjoyed it so much. I walked into the restaurant excited to do something independently, but also a tad apprehensive. It was so worth it though, because I left the restaurant feeling empowered, strong, and happy.  Below are a few tips/thoughts on the dining alone experience that we hope inspire you! -M

Getting over the fear

For many, it is the fear of what people will think that causes us to hesitate from going to a restaurant or cafe alone. However, I have good news! More than likely other diners don't even notice you, and if they do, they are more than likely totally focused on themselves, the people they are with, and the amazing food they are enjoying. In the very slim chance that they do notice you and have a thought about you- it is a positive one, not a bad one! They are probably admiring you for being confident enough to be there by yourself and enjoy it. Also, who knows, you might be inspiring them to dine alone soon, too!

Smile and enjoy yourself

Even if you feel nervous about the whole thing, act confident and soon your confident body language will translate to confident thoughts. Before you know it, you will truly feel confident about dining alone, instead of feeling nervous. As always, don't take yourself too seriously :) Not taking ourselves too seriously frees us to walk life confidently and joyfully, without worry or self-doubt. Smile and enjoy yourself! Having a light, carefree, and joyful demeanor will not only make you feel happy, but it will also give and attract positivity. So keep smiling, order your favorite meal, and enjoy.

Make the time yours

Having time to yourself is something to treasure, so make the most of your time while out alone. Bring a book or tablet if you want, or simply sit, relax, and reflect. Since you are alone, you can certainly be on your iPhone if you wish; text those that you haven't had the time to get back to, answer emails, or scroll through Pinterest for inspiration. The time is yours, so make it what you wish! Being able to take the time to notice details about the restaurant, people watch, and just take in your surroundings is a special experience that is only possible when dining alone.

We hope we have inspired you to go to a restaurant or cafe and ask for a table for one! It is such an opportunity for growth and a great way to get to know yourself even better. If you have additional tips or stories about dining alone, we would love to hear them in the comments section below. xo

images by felicia lasala  

The Influencer Podcast: My Career Path

I was so honored to chat with the lovely Julie Solomon on her recently launched podcast, The Influencer Podcast. It is an innovative behind-the-scenes community with successful influencers, bloggers and industry elites in conversation to share how they engage, persuade and grow their unique influence. Each episode is filled with so much insight - I have already learned so much.Julie is such a dear friend and was the key component to my re-brand, which led to the launch of LSK, so it was extra special chatting with her about my career journey + important tips and tricks I have learned in the blogging industry from the beginning to the present. I also share how to create healthy business boundaries. Easier said than done, right? Listen here and check out the show notes here!

Meet the Artist: Lindsey Meyer

Jason and I have absolutely loved choosing art for our home - it makes your living space so unique and meaningful. It is such a personal choice that brings joy to the soul + it is extra sweet doing it together. It definitely does not happen over night, but it is extra special when you find the perfect pieces for the right places. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Lindsey Meyer last year, and she happens to be a fellow Dallas-ite! She has so much purpose in her creativity, is a precious mama to the most beautiful little ones, and is able to balance her talent with being a present mom and wife. I learned so much from Lindsey by reading the answers to the questions we sent her way - scroll down to read about her beautiful perspective on art, family, and life + see the painting in our home!

When do you first remember knowing that you were in love with art and painting?

I have vivid memories of art being my favorite class as a child. My mom painted an artist’s palette and a paintbrush on a smock for me to wear during class. I loved it! The smell of crayons brings back so many early childhood memories.As an adult, I decided to return to school a year after graduating college to study graphic design. I enrolled in a watercolor class the first semester back and it sparked in me a crazy love for painting. I began painting every minute I had time. I knew then that I was on to something.

What is the creative process like for you?

I am not really a process person. I basically get in my studio, pray that the work that is done that day would be pleasing to God and turn up some really great music. I'll flip through some inspiration I had set aside and pick out a color palette that draws me in in that moment.

What inspires you the most?

I would have to say that fashion and interior design inspire me more than anything. I am a clotheshorse! Chic put together outfits spin my mind into ideas for a  painting and Architectual Digest brings me inspirational overload. Getting lost on a Pinterest rabbit trail does my soul good too!

Before painting, I worked as a buyer for a small clothing boutique, an assistant for an interior designer and designed invitations for a card company. Design is in my bones and each of my work experiences have helped me so much as an artist.

What do you love most about abstract art?

I love the freedom of abstract art. For me, it’s all about color and the movement of a piece mixed with the relationships of space. I like to paint my mood and bring in the thoughts and feelings of the day into my art. Looking back at pieces and remembering what was going on in my life is an amazing way of remembrance.

Your paintings are truly beautiful! Do you have a favorite piece or a favorite project that you have done? If so, why is it your favorite?

Thank you so much. I just recently finished a painting that is my new favorite. It was quick and free and just felt really good. Like a sipping a smooth glass of wine, and I had sand and water on my mind!

The colors that you use are gorgeous. How do you go about determining the color scheme for a painting?

That is the ultimate compliment for me, thank you! There is a quote from Keith Crown that says, “Color is a language of the poets. It is astonishingly lovely. To speak it is a privilege”. I could not agree more. It’s almost like color is God’s love language to me. I have stacks of inspiration all over my studio that I shuffle through. I’ll pick an idea that begins the painting that day and the direction comes and go from there. There in no real plan or premeditation.

What do you love most about painting? What about it brings you so much joy?

Art is so exciting! I love the feeling of standing back after the day and literally seeing my creations. It is simple but completely gratifying. I am so grateful for a job that is flexible and allows me to be a present mom and wife, but also feeds my soul as a creative. 

It has been such a joy and privilege for me to be able to use my gifts to give back to organizations that I am passionate about. After the adoption of our daughter two years ago, the Lord began laying on my heart the desire to help support and be an advocate for other orphans/adoption here and abroad. It  has taught me so much and given my work an immense purpose. #artforadoption

Do you have a favorite place to create your artwork? If so, where is it and why?

We recently built a studio behind our house where I work. I share it with the paraphernalia that comes with having three children! I am so grateful for my own space to just be. It is my first real studio and I love it.

Who are some of your favorite artists? What do you love about their work?

I recently went to the Dieberkorn/Mattise exhibit at the SFMOMA and it blew my mind. I was literally standing in the presence of sheer brilliance. I love Joan Mitchall, Helen Frankenthaler, Ivon Hitchens, Gabriel Goddard, Charlotte Seifert to name a few. Each of these artists use color with ease and genius. The greats were paving a new way in their time. Gabriel Goddard has a way with landscapes that in my opinion, no one can match. Charlotte Seifert is a friend of mine and is one of the reasons why I wanted to be a professional artist. Every new piece of her work takes my breath away.

What piece of advice would you give to a young person who dreams of becoming an artist?

If I had any advice to give someone who aspires to be an artist I would tell them to be patient, pay your dues and be true to yourself. It takes time to come to the place of knowing which path you want to take. What medium do you feel at home with? What style of composition do you want to make your own? What genre does your art reflect? All of these questions and others will be answered with hard work, failure and time.

What is your advice on choosing art for your home? What is the importance of it?Choose art that makes you happy and evokes an emotion in your soul. Ask yourself the question, “What would I love to walk into a room and see on my walls every day?" I believe that artwork is the crowning glory of your space. Let it be the component that allows your personality to shine!Check out her artwork here, and follow her on Instagram here!SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave

The Joys Of Summer

What do you think of when you think of summer? We think of lighter schedules, more downtime, longer days, sweet memories, and relaxed vibes. The joys of summer are like no other- simple, fun, and relaxing. Growing up, summer is greatly looked forward to in anticipation as a break from school and basically a season-long vacation.As an adult, summer is different, but we still have that lighthearted-summer-feeling in our hearts. Even though work continues throughout the week, summer nights are a special thing. When people are in summer mode, they are definitely in the mood to hang out more, which makes us think of summer as a season of socializing- how fun!There is nothing like the feeling of summer sunshine on your skin; it is refreshing and warming to the soul! Let's hold on to the childhood memories of fresh squeezed lemonade, running in the sprinkler, and eating chunks of watermelon as we build new summer memories as adults; ones that include late nights with friends, beach escapes, dining al fresco and so much more. xx

OUTFIT DETAILS

sunnies | dress (similar + similar) | lip color | sneaks

images by felicia lasala 

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Beautiful Skin with True Botanicals

Finding skincare products that are made with organic, safe ingredients is something that we are so passionate about at LSK. We love taking the time to build a skincare routine that we look forward to each morning and night; one that is simple, enjoyable, and nourishing. True Botanicals was so kind to send us products to test and we are so grateful for the opportunity! Achieving beautiful skin with True Botanicals is more than possible, but better than that, your skin will be healthy, pure, and well-nourished from deep within. Their mission is to create a line of luxury skincare products crafted with a high quantity of high quality ingredients; completely free of ingredients that are harmful to our health. We are so inspired by the founders of True Botanicals and their passionate commitment to creating products made of botanicals that help heal. We are blown away by the products that we tested and cannot wait to share the details- see below!Hydrating Cleanser: A refreshing cleanser that is effective in removing dirt and leaving your skin feeling cleansed, refreshed, and hydrated.Resurfacing Mask: Intended to be used once or twice a week in the evening; deeply exfoliating and encouraging of luminosity of the skin.Pure Radiance Oil: For use during the day or at night before bed; during the day it can be used pre-sunscreen to help sunscreen apply flawlessly. Pre bedtime, it will help encourage a healthy glow that develops over time.Nutrient Mist: A refreshing spritz for a daily-pick-me-up for your face. Made with nutrients and anti-oxidants that leave your face feeling hydrated and healthy.Pre Cleanse Oil: Created to be used before your cleanser, the pre cleanse oil removes gunk from your pores and prepares the skin for cleansing, promoting beautiful dewy skin.

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10 Questions with Emily Vendemmia

Hey guys! Melissa here and I am so excited to share a Q&A that we did with an amazing yoga instructor, health coach, and clean-living-guru from my hometown of Annapolis, MD. Meet Emily Vendemmia! Emily is such an inspiring woman and I am so grateful to know her. One day while taking a yoga class taught by her, the thought came to my mind that I should ask her about doing a Q&A for LSK. I am so happy that I listened to that thought and that Emily was on board! Below you will get to know Emily and learn some healthy insights from her; she is such a great source of health and happiness knowledge! Enjoy xo

-When did you start practicing yoga and how did you fall in love with it? 

I started practicing in yoga in 2005. I was going to the gym a lot and could never seem to find the results I wanted! I knew I could build muscle but I wanted to be less puffy and more consistently energetic. From my first yoga class, I could feel my muscles working in a different, healthier way and I immediately understood how the practice would help with anxiety.

-We love how you and your husband own the business together! What is it like working with your husband and managing the three yoga studios? 

I think the the key is delegating the small responsibilities. He and I are both so driven that sometimes we step on each other's toes when we work on too many things together. Over the last ten years, we've figured out which little jobs each of us are better suited for, and that gives us more time to brainstorm together on the bigger projects.

-Your passion for yoga, clean eating, and healthy living inspires us so much! What is your biggest piece of advice for people wanting to make a lifestyle change in order to feel better from within?

Stick to it!! Whatever you try, a new eating plan, a new form of exercise, stick with it! Very few people can understand how their body or mind will change with a plan of doing three new yoga classes, three days of a new workout, or eating grain free for three days. The consistency over 30, 40 or even 60 days is huge! Even if you don't stick with something after a long period of time, you're educating yourself about your overall wellness and you've created a foundation for you to return if you wish.

-Tell us about your coaching career! What do you enjoy most about it? 

The success stories, of course! The various plans work so well when they implemented properly and I love seeing the new clothes people buy or the new confidence that is gained.

-What is your go-to breakfast?

My favorite breakfast would be water and flesh of one young coconut mixed with chocolate Shakeology. My go-to would be just Shakeology with water.

-Your two little ones are so adorable. What is your approach with them when it comes to healthy foods? Are they picky or open to trying new things?

Our approach with our kids' diets has always been to find the healthier substitute of what most kids would normally want. If they want potato chips, we give them these and if they want chocolate, we give them these- the less ingredients, the better! My son (4-years old) is so picky. He's never had Oreos or other really junky foods like that, so he's not obsessed with sugar, but he's still picky when it comes to anything cooked. He does love Larabars and hummus, thankfully.Our daughter (2-years old) eats everything! So, she has no processed foods in her diet. She loves beets, almond butter, coconut yogurt, everything!

-It is no secret that you are one hardworking and successful woman! Any tips on balancing it all between family, work, self care, and other responsibilities?

Among the many benefits of a yoga practice, I have gained more awareness. I've become more aware of when I'm feeling stressed, when the kids need more attention, when Philip and I haven't had a date night in a while, etc. Being aware of myself and the folks around me helps me to balance everything MOST of the time. A good glass of wine helps me to balance everything during the tougher times. :)

-The yoga teachers you have hired at APY are truly amazing. What is the yoga community like? How did you meet most of the girls? 

Most of our teachers were students of ours first and showed an interest in teacher trainings at different times throughout their practice. We spend a lot of time helping the teachers with their continuing education and we see this directly helping our students.

-I always feel so, SO good after taking a yoga class with you. What is it about teaching that keeps you inspired and keeps you going?

Teaching yoga could never get boring for me. In any given class of 20 people, 5 are probably overweight, 5 are probably tight from running, 5 probably have difficulty with strength and 5 probably have probably never done yoga before! Each class is different.

The motivation of the students is always the most inspiring aspect of any given class. It's my job to better understand that motivation and create an environment for the student's practices to grow.

-Do you have a positive mantra that you live by? If so, we would love it if you could share! 

I always liked the Seinfeld quote "Your blessing in life is when you find the torture you're comfortable with." We can all go through life and be unhappy about our responsibilities; to our kids, to our friends, to ourselves. But, when we find that balance, or as he puts it "the torture we are comfortable with" it truly is a blessing and happiness is usually a great consequence.

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Standing With Confidence: Part 2

We started the confidence chat last week and today we are continuing the conversation with standing with confidence, part 2! In part 1, I discussed inner confidence and how it is connected to how you feel physically. Spiritual confidence is another facet of confidence that is so key in how we feel about ourselves emotionally, mentally, and personally. I have recently been really drawn to Psalm 40: 1-3 and want to share it with you today-

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me

and he turned to me and heard my cry.

He lifted me out of the pit of despair,

out of the mud and the mire.

He set my feet on solid ground

and steadied me as I walked along.

He has given me a new song to sing,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see what he has done and be amazed.

They will put their trust in the Lord. (NLT)

Every time I read this, I become overwhelmed in the most incredible way by the confidence in Him and a thankfulness that it is not all in my hands or on my shoulders. What a blessing that is! As a believer, we have the most amazing gift from the Lord and that is the ability and joy to depend on Him for everything. When it comes to confidence, I have found that my inner-confidence is very dependent to my trust and faith level. If I am in worry-mode, my inner confidence will hit rock bottom. However, when I actively acknowledge the fact that the Lord is 100% in control, holding my hand, and guiding me through the journey of life, then I am able to to enjoy the peaceful place of truly depending on Him for everything, including my confidence. All we have to do is cry out for His help, wait patiently, and surrender to Him.I love every word from the verses above, but the lines that describe God setting our feet on solid ground and steadying us as we walk along, are currently really grabbing my heart. Picture that in your head and you will see a loving God, right by our side, giving us stability and guidance at every turn. Knowing and believing that truth will completely obliterate low self-confidence! There is just no way that we can feel anything but confidence in our Lord, which will bring us peace, rest, and joy. Through Him, we have everything we need to face any situation, get over any hurdle, and climb any mountain. xo Melissa

images by Felicia Lasala

denim // sweatshirt

Stepping Forward In Boldness

It is so amazing how the Lord continuously restores our fears and heals in ways that are unimaginable and unexpected. I experienced that last week when I was interviewing with the lovely Larry King. He challenged me in his wisdom to free myself up, to stop hiding! I took off my prosthetic arm for the first time in the public eye, and it truly was the most liberating experience. For years, I extended my vulnerable side with those I was most comfortable - my husband, my family, and only my friends in Dallas.

My husband has been encouraging me for a few years to confidentially walk in my full self and story, all the while being gracious in knowing that I needed to feel ready. God is so good in how He provided such a unique opportunity to do this while filling me with such peace and readiness in the moment. I am overflowing with gratefulness and empowerment and have been so humbled by all of the support!

Do you feel like you are hiding something in your life that is keeping you from living in full freedom? I encourage you to step forward in boldness, no matter how hard it may seem. You will not regret it, and we are all in this together!

images by Felicia Lasala

top (c/o) | denim | bandana | sunnies (c/o)