God-Like-Manners

Your table matters and so do your table manners! Who is hanging around your table, lately?

Around the dinner table you learn some of the most valuable lessons in life that are bigger than how you hold your fork! You learn respect by listening and you watch and observe how others engage with one another! You practice love by watching what you say and how you say it to your brother, cousin or bestie. Being around the table consistently, night after night, you are able to develop good character, and over time produce good habits. Why does this matter? Because we are image bearers of Christ!

Lets dive into three valuable virtues that reflect a God-Like-Manner and can be practiced around the table.

God-like- manners stem from the greatest tool we have, scripture! And God-like-manners result from training, practice, guidance and healthy expectations communicated over time. Manners are learned and require intention and consistency. Lets start with our own heart. Scripture says to “love your neighbor as yourself!”

But…do you love yourself? Because if you can’t love who God made you to be first, you can’t possibly love your neighbor, according to scripture? The more you love the little things about you, the more your response to others will be, love. Because healthy, Christ like love is contagious and the more you accept and receive Gods love, the more God- Like - Manner you will reflect.

Reminder: God Loves you!

Love and respect go hand in hand. If you love who God made you to be, then you realize your body and your heart are apart of his creation and reflect his nature! “Be filled with the Spirit,” Ephesians 5:18. Being a part of his creation full of his spirit, you are called to be his reflection!

Respect is an action. Respect says I care about you regardless of your status or your job or what school you go to or what type of backpack you have! Lead with respect and if someone doesn’t return the favor, that’s ok. You’re responsible for how you lead; so let Gods love form respectful actions!

Reminder: Respecting others starts with self-respect!

Love leads to respect and respect leads to doing the right thing! In todays world is it so easy to second guess what to do or be misguided by self centered advice! May Gods word be a light for your path when faced with decisions. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. ” (Psalm 119) Of course there will be times that we don’t do the right thing and that’s OK because we serve a God who forgives and restores! But may your days and weeks and months around your table, provide you with the practice you need to do the right thing more often than not. We need a world that allows Christ’s love to be contagious first, in our own heart! And allow that burning heart to feed how we see and feel about the people around us. So when we are faced with decisions, hard ones and easy ones, we will have the confidence produced by Gods love in our hearts to be courageous. To step out. To seek his approval above all else. And may we charge to repeat this same beautiful practice, opening up our table to those God has called us to.

May your Christmas table be full,

xxx, Molly

A New Table

My husband is a chef which makes the holidays particularly yummy and exciting. Setting the table, choosing a menu and keeping in mind the people that will fill the seats is a true blessing that I try not to ever take for granted. As I plan for Holiday dinners and sharing meals and making memories with loved ones and dear friends, I realize even more, how powerful the table metaphor is.

If your table isn’t what you had in mind this year or if it’s feeling empty because of loss, take heart my sweet friend, God is preparing for you a new table.

As we get older, it’s hard to consistently look forward. Memories and broken dreams, lost friendship and change can often fight for our peace. Don’t let that derail you and distract you from the table God gave you, today. I no longer have my dad or my little brother around my table, today. And no amount of wallowing will change that. I have learned over the last couple of years that memories are sacred gifts from heaven, and we keep them, forever.

So when you find yourself reflecting on the past tables, offer a praise song along with whatever sentiment you’re sitting with. And don’t sit too long! Laugh to yourself, cry for a little, smile and praise God for his gifts. And move through the memories as you plant your feet and dream about future ones! I owe a relatively healthy heart in spite of my loss to this God given desire to dream. Tap into your dreamy state because dreams keep hope alive. Remember, God is preparing for you new dreams,  a new table!

I am Thankful for tables. For the tables I have enjoyed over the years, full of memories and family and friends that have made my life, a life worth living. For the tables I get to prepare, now. Sprinkled with new friends and old friends, all hand picked by a God who loves me (and you) and wants to continue to prepare tables before me (and you)!

Lets consider & be thankful for the tables God is preparing for us in advance! Regardless of where you find yourself and your heart this Thanksgiving, I want you to know that God is preparing for you, new tables. He wants to fill your table with delightful and true friendship. He wants to equip you to set a table for others and experience all the rich depths this life has to offer. Trust him, this season, and remember as you sit and enjoy your Thanksgiving the chief giver, and builder of tables, is preparing a new table for you.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Molly

Pause.

As I sit with my laptop and listen to the rain drops hitting my roof and the wind swirling and dancing with the trees outside, I pause. I notice the sky is a clay color and I notice how animated the palm trees are when its windy! Isn’t nature the sweetest teacher? I can’t help but think about Gods creativity; how he designed the wind and the trees and the gray, clay like skies to work together, providing a break from the sun. To slow things down. To water. To pause, to rest. And to remind us to do the same.

May today be the day you open yourself up to the art of pausing. May today be the day that you notice, more. The cooling of the air. A bird sitting outside your window, singing! A cozy smell coming from the kitchen or a text from a good friend. Gifts that cost nothing. And I think we find these gifts, this treasure when we pause. It’s in the slow moments we are able to experience Gods presence and notice how he might be communicating with us.

May you pause to think about this season of giving in a new way. Embrace this sacred idea of setting aside time, everyday, to be still. To make space for the treasure that God, in his goodness, wants to share with you. Reminding you that you’re enough. Impressing on your heart that you are his and you are called by name and your life has a purpose. He wants to Infuse you with peace and strength and grace and guidance. It is in the stillness, in the pausing you can sense, “here this way.”

How much more polite and joyful would we be if the art of pausing superseded the need to try and manage our emotions and everyday life on our own?

And as we pause, that stillness opens us up to prayer. And that posture of openness allows our heart, our mind and body to release control and accept, in that moment whatever God has for us.

Pausing is powerful. Pausing as a habit restores a restless spirit to peace. And invites a racing mind to rest as his presence replaces the negative loops and routines. If you feel your calendar filing up or life running away from you, pause. Don’t resist it, lean into it. You will be shocked to find unexpected treasure, I promise you. And may this Christmas season usher in a peaceful and joyful spirit knowing that God is infusing you with all you need to do the next best thing.

May this Christmas Season bring you unexpected treasure!

Love,

Molly

How To Be A Go(o)d Friend

Tenney, my amazing friend and a fearless Waverly Leader says, “At TWP, we focus on building all things good in this world.” We are committed to showing girls a different way. A kind way. A gracious and good way producing God-like relationships, community and environments illuminating girls hearts and minds.

As we enter this holiday season, I am going to propose a few concepts connected to our everyday life that can change our peace and joy meter. Lets start with the most familiar concept, friendship. I want to commit to being a Go(o)d friend.  A God-like friend. Here are 6 ways we can practice, daily, being a God-like - Go(o)d friend:

Listen. Personally, I am so conditioned to share my opinions, interject and think I know what’s best. The truth is only God really knows what’s best. When we quiet our spirit, and allow for the other person to speak we also make room in our own hearts to hear God and how he might feel about a given situation. This process might usher in some wisdom and God-like insight that is way more effective than my QUICK response.  

Serve. I think one of the most “God-like” things we can do on a regular basis is to choose to serve others. When you don’t think you have time. When it feels like too much or not something you want to do but you know it would help, do it anyway. Serving others transforms our hearts to look and touch others the way Jesus does. Its powerful, its God-like and blesses not only the person you’re serving, but it ends up blessing you too.

Encourage. In a world bombarded with bad news. Heaviness and confusion, be intentional with your words. Words give life. Words have the power to turn someone’s entire life around.  Today and the next, be intentional with your words. Encouragement infuses the heart with the Love of Jesus and turns an OK situation into a Go(o)d one!

Cheer for your friends. I want you to know how much God loves you. Allow that truth to sink in and transform how you cheer for your friends. This type of self confidence is contagious and may this spirit be the bed rock and foundation of Waverly Girls and women!

Compliment. You know the saying “To face your fear you must confront it?” When we have feelings of jealousy or lack confidence, speak life, and compliments into your friends! Its supernatural. The spirit of these words will sink deep into your own heart and supernaturally transform how you see yourself and your friends! God created you on purpose. Everything about you is special! Knowing this, try and point out the things that are special about your girlfriends and the more you do that the more you will sense how much God loves you.

Pray for your friends. Prayer is the most powerful tool we have on this side of heaven. If you want dynamics to change, pray about them. If your friend is having a hard time, pray for her. If someone is bothering you, pray for them! Prayer not only develops are relationship with God, it transforms our world.

Being a “God-Like & Go(o)d friend has the ability to shift culture. We could debate for days how crazy this world is and how it feels imposable to navigate but I think the most effective way to handle all of it? Start by being intentional and God-like with your relationships. And the most beautiful part is the more we work on building Go(o)d, God-like relationships, the more we build the most important one, our relationship with God himself.

Cheering for you!

Molly

MY WHO

Part II, YOU

When my team and I begin developing new initiates or discuss dreams we have for TWP, we always answer three questions:

Our What.

Our Who.

Our Why.

Today, I want to share with you my number one, Who. My number one who is you, girl. Here to remind you, early and often, you were made on purpose. For a purpose. You were made to discover all the waves and storm clouds, sunrises and secret gardens that makeup everyday life. Here to say its ok that you don’t always get it right because in your heart, you carry with you this little light hoping to make that wrong a right. And that light leads you along your path, and whispers, “Go this way, darling, just wait and see.”

I want to help ignite - your light.

My heavenly father, my light, has illuminated my path forward for the last decade of life. He has mercifully taken my hand when I lost my way, woke up angry, confused and broken. He has walked me, step by step, from a dry wasteland to a sunny, healthy, thriving  meadow.

He wants the same things for you, too.

And as his heart has overflowed into mine, a beautiful and good picture revealed itself. A picture that includes deep friendship for his girls. Thriving family life that celebrates commitment and champions sacrifice. Girls seeking thoughtful work that builds community, faith and real relationship that supports circles outside her own.

I know his heart for us girls includes everything that is good in this world; healthy happy hearts, Holy illuminating souls and bubbling minds making even the mundane moments, rare treasure. My passion and my seeking all things good overflows from the heart of God and it is in that overflow the development of The Waverly Project has come about. For you. For girls to experience the simple and profound ways he wired our imagination and our ability to connect with the world around us. My Who is you, and your besties and your grams and her sister. Individually you are amazing but collectively, we are extraordinary. And I believe that God desires for us to experience the extraordinary. SO here is to igniting our light and creating amazing moments for extraordinary people like you.

x Molly

MY WHAT part I

“What do I want to do with my life?” The million dollar question, right? The question that started swirling around in my head the beginning of my sophomore year of college and hasn’t stopped. For those of you who are new here - I would like to reintroduce myself and the story that led me to my what, creating The Waverly Project.

My name is Molly. I am strong willed, a bit abrasive at times, contemplative at times, creative and very much dedicated to my family. I love God, I love this wonderful country and I love connecting with girls and women advancing community and beauty and creativity. In 2012 I left my dream job in fashion, working my way up the Ralph Lauren corporate ladder. What was I thinking? 25 years old with zero job prospects living in a not so affordable apt. in NYC with obviously no savings, no bf, just bar tabs and parking tickets. I was following a “feeling” that, at the time, seemed insane to everyone in my life. But I couldn’t explain it. I had this conviction and it wasn’t going away. The day I called my RL boss was the day I accepted Gods calling on my life, it was the day I stepped into my what and it was the first time in my life I felt complete peace.

Ever since I can remember my “what” was fashion. I came up with my own concept of a women’s golf line when I was 14 and after getting a like from my dad, I knew my what. Fast forward post college and two years into my dream job and something felt off. I felt kind of like a fraud. The best way I can describe it: this deep sense that I was not living out the story God had planned for me and I felt awful and anxious. And anyone who knows me knows that when something isn’t working or its time to move on, I move on. So without a plan, left RL and decided to pursue this very intangible feeling that morphed into a concept after hours day-dreaming over coffee and sunsets. The Waverly Project, a creative space for girls that was fresh and new. A mission to rebuild culture for girls and women that was real and life giving. I was craving real friendship. I was craving honest advice. I deeply wanted a community around me that reflected the music singing in my soul and I couldn’t find it. I went down every west village street to look, every fun night out, every corporate setting, and it wasn’t there. It was time to pursue new streets and so that’s what I did.

In 2012, God led me to Steamboat Road in Greenwich, CT on one sunny fall day. I landed at my dear family friends house, two suitcases in hand, stepping off a train and into my new adventure. I would stay there for the remainder of 6 months.

Building real relationships is one of my greatest joys in life. And stepping off that train and into this town, was the beginning of me falling in love with people, Gods goodness and the reality that you can make something out of nothing.

There are several doors that led me to where I am now. Some doors led to sleepless nights feeling like I wanted to give up. Many weeks and months I didn’t know what I was doing or if I would ever see my dream blossom. But the one thing that kept me hanging on was my steadfast, ever evolving relationship with God. On the nights I wanted to give up. On the days I felt worthless and discouraged, he whispered into my soul, “Darling, the best is yet to come.”

My hearts deepest desire is for girls and women to feel beautiful, connected and inspired to step into their calling. I try and see the world from a heavenly perspective. Full of light and gardens and beauty and laughter. A perspective that builds things together and dreams together. A future for girls and women where femininity is wholesome and original to every girl. I want to reclaim what Gods plan has been for us all along: unified, confident, loved and fearless in our own skin. I have this sense that the best is yet to come for all of us. A call back to pursuing family with confidence and integrity. Lets unite under values that strengthen our community and our hearts and our work. May we have the boldness to reject what is confusing our feminine spirit and power. May we stand together and lead by example, together, embracing who we are, who God made us to be, loving well and hard and fiercely.

I know we all live on different streets. We all carry different dreams and hold unique stories in our hands. But that’s the magic! That is your what. And my what is to continue to build a place for girls to discover their what. For women to find community for their girls that champions character and creativity and bold thinking! The best is yet to come. We have come along way and to me, the brave, faithful, happy, grateful girl is it. That leads to a girl finding her what.

xMolly

GOD FIRST

GOD FIRST

Letting go of culture and holding onto him.

Dear Daughters <3

I hope everyone enjoyed a lovely 4th and are finding the rhythms of summer to be slower, hopeful and refreshing. These last few months have been busy, exciting and lots of new! New in many senses but as it pertains to The Waverly Project, we are committed to a new voice, many years in the making.

In the past I have placed my faith and politics some what on a shelf as my goal is first to respect our readers difference of opinion and always lead with a hopeful take on life’s ups and downs. I do however carry very strong convictions. Convictions that are at the heart of The Waverly Project, and the reason for me leaving behind my fashion career and charging this territory, challenging me for over a decade now. I would be lying if I said this road has been easy. The spirit of discouragement consumes me at times with an overwhelming feeling of giving up more than I would like to admit. Yet, Gods gentle whisper meets me in those moments and reminds me of why this mission matters so much. Its so much more than inspiring girls through creativity. Its so much more than fellowship and mentoring. Waverly’s roots are deeply spiritual and represent Gods heart and vision for girls and women. I am not one to float with the tide and now, I see why God made me that way! My rebellion is not just about refusing to wear trendy clothes or totally ignore pop music and pretend that TIKTOK doesn’t exist. Its matured into a desire to stand up for my convictions. To stand up for girls and women in this hour who feel silenced and hopeless. Just as I refuse to let trendy things dictate my style, I will not allow our culture to influence Waverly’s wholesome and feminine messaging. Instead, I will use this space to carry Gods torch and communicate who he says girls are, who he says women are and why we were created to reflect not only his beauty but his heart. It is a sacred call and one that I will champion for the rest of my life.

Girl Class reminds girls of who God says they are; creators, valued, loved and individually amazing. Girl Class reminds girls that God does not make mistakes and his purposes for them are real and eternal. Waverly is a space to meditate on his words and why his laws are for our best! His laws are not to condemn us but to refine us, restore us and reflect his goodness! The highest calling for each one of us. This is not about choosing a political side, its about choosing Gods side. I am a cheerleader for moms and women and will continue to encourage girls to guard their hearts, respect their bodies and honor God in all they do and say. That is my calling, and I am finally wholeheartedly stepping into that calling.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” Philippians 4:8

The Waverly Project has and always will be to promote strong values and provide creative, mentorship programming along with space for multi-generational mentoring opportunities. We will get behind organizations that share similar perspectives on women, girls and family-life and we look forward to more new. A new wave providing encouragement, honesty, hope and beauty for all of Gods daughters.

Love,

Molly

Are You Listening...

Grab your cup of tea and or coffee, slip into your cozy socks and curl up in your favorite chair. I hope today has met you with some sunshine. Whether it was an unexpected wave from a neighbor or an open parking spot, a new friend or the fact you showered and put on a real outfit. This season feels to me like we all need extra encouragement and a whole lot of honesty. Honesty, realness, motivation...and a large cup of encouragement.

There is too much junk filtering into our lives every single day. Too much! And the truth is we all need to admit this. Admission first. And then second we need to hold ourselves accountable for what junk we are allowing to seep into the inner, sacred part of our hearts. This junk effects us whether we are aware of it or not. So then we need to notice how it has effected us and intentionally remove the trash (by forgiving, reflecting, making new choices etc.). That will allow us to see things in a fresh way; the meaningful, honest and good things we all have flowing in and out of our everyday but tend to miss. Sadly I think a lot of this "junk" has cost too many of us, good relationships. Too many relationships have been held hostage because of this junk. Ruined. Crushed. My goal this season and moving into 2023 is to celebrate and rethink how I handle my relationships!

A little reality check: We are not always going to agree with every person placed in our life. That doesn't mean we get rid of them? What if they are there for a real purpose we just can't see it? Part of the beauty in life is discovering new ways of doing things and seeing things. We have to learn how to listen to people. We have to really work at listening to people, today. The majority of us just want to say what we think, without really caring what the other person has to say. Isn't that sad? Sharing of ideas, experiences and perspectives, I believe, is the force that propels a healthy society. Most of the people in your life do not want to harm you or offend you, they just experienced life differently than you! Maybe let them explain...

As I look back on the building of Waverly and think about all the amazing women I have met along the way, the diversity is astounding! I am not saying we should say yes to every person we meet or necessarily agree with them! But we do owe our relationships the respect of listening. And how much we miss out on when we don't take the time to put our ego on the shelf, and sit with someone and really listen to them? I think the key in "keeping it real" depends on listening to others, first.

People motivate me. Which is why I must practice listening. I can't really have one without the other. With that in mind, this holiday season, I am determined to talk less and listen more. I used to drive my brother crazy because I am always the one sucking the oxygen out of the room, running my mouth. He used to call me "motor mouth"! How lovely right? As I brainstorm and sit with 2023, all I can think about is that over the course of my young adult life (12 years ish) I can't help but look at my table of people and feel, in awe. Waverly has this beautiful tapestry of women weaved together so intentionally and my goal is to revisit those women, listen to them and allow them to motivate me and Waverly into our future plans! I think we all can do this. If today feels heavy or discouraging, sit and reflect on your people. Think about who you can call or catch up with over coffee? Who is that one friend that always listens to you but maybe its time to listen to them? I believe the more we listen to one another, without an agenda or wanting to be right or to sound smarter or take offence, the MORE we enjoy life.

Honestly, this time of year can feel overrun with people! Instead of saying yes to a ton of holiday parties or events full of distant people, maybe say yes to a few close friends that will help prepare you for this next year?

Homework: Say no to one thing you know you need to and reach out to one friend you know you need to! May that friendship be the beginning of many more fueling your inner beautiful self for 2023! May 2023 usher in all of us a larger does of enjoying one another!

Love,
Molly

Living, Thankfully

As I get older, I become more aware of the beautiful tension the holidays can usher in. I hope this morning meets you with a fresh sense of hope as you allow the supernatural beauty of Thanksgiving to cozy up in your heart. But if today is hard for you, how can you too experience the joy of this day? How can you be thankful if you're missing someone around your table this year? I think the key is to practice thankfulness not just on Thanksgiving. Make thankfulness a habit. And start today!

Every night at dinner my husband and I pray over the meal and say "thank you" for our blessings that day. This practice may seem dated or just unnecessary but the power it draws is real. This Thanksgiving my brother of 33 years is missing from my table. Words can't describe the grief associated with this reality. My heart is broken and will be broken for a while. But as I look around my table, as I observe my many beautiful friends and family members in my life, I can't help but feel thankful. Practicing Thanksgiving not just on Thanksgiving has very real and powerful effects.

A heart can be sad and thankful at the same time. Our circumstances are ever changing but our perspective on our circumstances can become a practice, a thankfulness practice. The important thing is to remember how simply powerful existing is, being able to wake up in a bed, making friendships, smiling and hugging relatives, enjoying a meal, are all gifts. Blessings and gifts that must be noticed. What do you need to notice and give thanks for today? I need to notice the air going in and out of my lungs, trees outside my window, sipping my coffee and spending time with the people I love. Thankfulness opens up the happy well spring of our hearts and restores the corners that may be hurting. Thankfulness reminds us how good things are always looming around the corner. Thankfulness is refreshment to the soul. Thankfulness turns on the lights inside of us. And when our light is turned on we become beautifully, strong, unstoppably-powerful people!

Homework: Write a letter to one person you wish to say thank you to. Someone who has stuck by you through it all. Someone who reminds you that living is a gift and that your light will change the world!

Love,
Molly

One Day At A Tim

By Molly Reed

Are you looking at the forest or just one tiny tree?

Big picture is so important. But so are the details right? How are we supposed to recognize whether or not we are obsessing over one tree or thinking so big that our daily dose of detail is not getting enough attention?

Live one day at a time.

We all have dreams. We all crave building things; maybe its building family for you or a friend group, a business or even a school project? Regardless of your medium, you and me, we were created to build things. I think the tough part in that truth is how do we build___? Like build well. This is a question I ask myself more days than not so living in this tension has honestly become part of my normal routine. Part of me wants to say thinking about this question is unfortunate, but today, I feel like its actually becoming more of a blessing. As I sit in the tension of this question, the phrase that continues to resurface, "Try to Live one day at a time, Molly."

But how!!!! That seems, irresponsible, ridiculous or (my worst nightmare), lazy!

Our worlds have gone from too busy to too slow. Covid shifted us from over scheduled to not scheduled at all and now so many of us are feeling completely confused and slightly paralyzed by our new normal. OR new dilemma? Some days we have this big picture moment, while other days we zero in on one tree. Regardless of the day, it feels like getting into a consistent, well balanced rhythm is impossible?

Then I am reminded, "Live one day at a time, Molly."

So why this dilemma? Maybe our old habits are creeping back in? What if our chance to reprioritize didn't totally click? What if that is the problem? Its like we were given the chance to start over, start fresh and live a in a whole new way but our old ways still seem to chase us down...

Maybe we were never created to be that scheduled. SO busy we can't spend quality time with our family. So busy we don't take care of our mental health. Sooo busy we can't be a good friend to our good friend.

I love the quote "Can't you see the forest from the trees"? I think its a healthy question to ask ourselves, daily. Everyday we awake to a new sunrise with new issues and new problems or joys to experiences. Isn't one day, enough to try and tackle? Maybe this quote isn't so bad if we wrestle with it honestly, one day at a time! Maybe we reinterpret this quote: our forest(our life), our trees (details building) are many, many days and thus we build new roots, water a new area, one day at a time. The point is not to ignore the forest or the trees but rather look at both, just one day at a time? The dream, then, the idea or whatever it is we are after will grow into a beautiful, green forest...in its right time. One day at a time!
Lots of love,

Molly

Finding The Rainbows

Who looks at a rainbow and simply walks away without gasping or smiling? No one. If you do, seek help! Lol. In all seriousness, rainbows are so much deeper than beautiful colors covering the sky after the rain.

After the rain. Someone recently said to me, "Without bad we would have no gage or concept of how good, good can be!" It is so true, in order to experience great joy, great amounts of happiness one has to have the understanding of both the good and the bad. It allows us to appreciate both the rain and the rainbow once we arrive on the other side.

Rainbows symbolize two things to me: hope and restoration.

Hope. After a dark and stormy sky comes a multi-colored reaction that arches across a recovering blue sky usually illuminated by the sun! The picture is extraordinary! And I choose to believe it is a metaphor for life. After the rain, after the trial or struggle there is a blessing. Its there, but much like a rainbow, you have to stop and recognize it or else it may just pass you by...

Restoration. So often I say to myself, "But why?" Why did it have to go this way? Why didn't it go that way? It never ceases to amazes me, that in time, my why becomes a wow. Wow, that's why! Wow, it all makes sense now! Wow, it will be ok and I will be restored again. Sometimes our plans are not what is best for us. When we get to see the grand mosaic of our lives, all the little rain storms, tornadoes and hurricanes will make total sense. After each one, we will see the rainbow, we will see the beauty that came. We will see the restoration. And thanks to rainbows, we can have faith that this is not just a silly comparison but a symbol and design to provide us with profound understanding of life.

Lots of Love,
Molly

Aspire to Inspire

“Before I knew it, one thing led to another…” Says everyone.

I love to study how things work together. How does the very tangible foundation of our earth like the ocean gravely influence our intangible, interior life? Why does the sunshine help our state of mind? Yes, these are big life questions and no I don’t believe the answers are black and white. But as I prioritize thankfulness and try and make serving others apart of my lifestyle, there are some key “connectors” I think can help us build our own bridge between where we are today and where we want to be tomorrow. For me this is all about connection, truly an obsession of mine. It feels like a late night craving. I love cold pizza and I love connection. And why does connection constantly vie for my attention…just like that late night pizza lol. I think because one thing constantly leads to another…

The Hebrew word for peace is shalom. It means freedom from trouble as in conflict. It means experiencing the highest good and possessing all the inner good possible. It means wholeness and soundness. I saw “Aspire to Inspire” on my calendar and it hit me, inspiring people comes from the same seed, the same root as peace. Both I argue are healthy states of mind; a peaceful state is calm and tranquil while an inspired state leaves you feeling stimulated and excited about the future.

I believe so much of our natural world is meant to create in us feelings of both peace and inspiration. That is why the ocean can move us to deep meaning and at the same time leave us feeling calm and at peace. In a time where peace and inspiration seem impossible to hold consistently and at the same time(!) let’s change that by looking outside! Literally. Let’s try and wake up aware of what we do have. Let’s try and connect all that is before us to all that is within us. When I stand before a forest of trees I am in awe of the strength they represent and the colors and history they carry. Now that I live in Florida the first (10 seconds) I am in chill air, it hits me differently. I feel my lungs, working, filling me up so much so I become…inspired. I realize this world is in great distress, as many of us feel so much for so many… And since our land is currently not a war zone, a healthy and whole response looks like letting their reality change how we react to ours. Let our grass (brown and all), our trees, our beaches, our towns broken down or dirty, still at peace relative to parts of the world, give us peace.

Our environment aspires to inspire us! And so I believe it is our duty to take charge of what we have and let it seep into the depths of our interior life by reflecting on our exterior life, how blessed we are. How the choice to be inspired is just outside our window.

P.S. did you know all oceans are connected? One thing does lead to another…

Sincerely, Molly

The Waves & me

One of my favorite books, “A Gift from the SEA” by Anne Morrow Lindbergh is a beautiful chronicle of life, love and the pursuit of peace. Her calming reflections on relationships, freedom, work and seashells are forever locked in my heart. Her writing is art-like made up of words, a true gift I forever cherish. If you don’t have this book, do not walk, RUN and get a copy.

As I lie in bed, pondering the ever complicated and often supernatural dynamics of friendship, Linda’s most adorable teal blue cover calls my name! I skim my many underlined pages, highlights etc. only to come to one major conclusion: Friendship, good friendship, begins with me.

I know the saying, “It starts with you” sounds very cliché and super annoying so I promise to propose a slightly different perspective :) Lets talk about freedom and how ones relationship with freedom not only impacts daily routines but most significantly, relationships. And no I am not talking about the kind of freedoms we experience as United States citizens. I am talking about inner freedom. The kind of freedom one receives in exchange for struggles and experience, change and loss life brings. As we dance between waves of joy and a waves of unexpected sadness and loss, how can we learn well and look forward with hope in our eyes?? Your relationship with Inner freedom is how.

I would love for you to get out a piece of paper. Make a list of the things that create anxiety, fear, confusion and insecurities in your life. Ok, I will go first: Did I hurt so in so’s feelings? Do I have enough money for (fill in the blank). Am I getting older by the day?(wrinkles) Does my job really matter?(of course not) This list could go on…and on. And in many cases this list is a collection of complete lies.

Our list can keep us from experiencing inner freedom and thus likely impede on the personal relationship we have with ourselves. One by one, try and identify consistent thoughts that pollute how you feel and how you see yourself. Thoughts that get in the way of you waking up feeling at peace with your life. What habits or choices block you from experiencing hopeful, healthy, loving thoughts that promote…inner freedom? Inner freedom comes when we understand how to love ourselves because we were first loved! We were created! With a plan in mind for a purpose greater than we can imagine! When we can accept ourselves and actually admire all the imperfections and uniqueness, our free spirit is contagious and friendships blossom.

The more honest we are with ourselves…the more comfortable we become with who we are. It’s like the more you get to know someone (flaws and all) the more you actually adore them! It’s the hiding, and avoiding that creates chaos in our lives. The more we accept the story that is US; the more we honor the good, the bad and grow out of the ugly with healthy attention and work…the better friend to ourselves we will be. Thus? The better friend to others we will be. Waves of all different shapes and sizes will come on this side of heaven and so choose to face them, ride them and swim in them. I promise with an honest and real approach to all that is you, your heart will blossom into a free, OK, hopeful & excited about the ride kind of girl.

Finding Friends...And Keeping Them

There are so many areas in our life where “good” is a challenging measure. I want to encourage you today that your best is more than enough.  Happy Valentines to YOU!

My momma is one of the strongest women I know. She has been through some excruciatingly painful experiences and while she has a pass to explode wherever, whenever, she doesn’t. 

Something happened to her recently and it broke me. For 100 reasons it broke me. Everything about the encounter was hurtful and unbelievable and If I told you…I am sure most of your jaws would drop. But then again, would they? I am sadly in awe of how mean women can be to one another. 

Ironically, I wrote a piece last week on how beautiful and respectful the women are in my life. As I wrote last week, I caught myself saying well, DUH. I mean … this is so silly and obvious, right? That your people are kind and gracious and broken but at least they’re real? Sadly, ladies, the answer for a majority of us is probably, no. And how presumptuous of me to assume and how sad I feel writing this. I want to cover the other side, the mean and catty and jealous elephant that exists in many women's rooms. Let's talk about why women repeatedly go there, and how we all have moments of weakness? Most importantly let's vow here to work damn hard to be a part of the minority, to be good (friends). Good women, one beautiful and underserved morning at a time.  

We have to take an honest  inventory of the people in our lives. Are your friends' values aligned with yours? Do you even consider values when choosing your friends? This is important in theory but really hard to practice. You not only need a brave backbone but also need a great deal of conviction. I have been working on this part of friendship for years now. The hardest part? Getting comfortable with saying, no. A lot of times we put ourselves in situations that are actually unhealthy for us. And then we wonder why we feel undone…not everyone wants to practice being a good (huaman-friend). 

Human beings are broken. Every one of us has stuff that inevitably will get in our way of being the best version of ourselves and that's OK. When I am able to admit this (humility muscle strengthened) I am always shocked by the peace and freedom I feel in my soul, like a cool breeze sweeping in. The “I have to be perfect” weights drop. I find the more grace I give to myself the more grace I will inadvertently be able to give to others. And if someone in your life doesn’t practice this concept or understand it, that's ok. Just know that there lies your “values” answer. 

When I stare at my own brokenness, I try to hug her with open arms, like a baby hugging a puppy. Lol. I don’t want to bury her or avoid her or condemn her because that is truly where my purpose and future live. It is true that those who are mean are actually masking their hurt. So instead of reacting or saying something profane, wait. Think to yourself, ugh she isn’t ok inside. We all carry hurt and we all hurt others too. We won't ever get this grace thing right 100 percent of the time but the more we choose to give it out, the more grace will go back into your tank. God can cover his grace and love over your stuff and transform it. Here are some examples of when we can choose grace: Someone cancels on you, Something isn’t done exactly how you wanted it done, Some says something hurtful to you or is mean to you. Always try and choose, grace. 

Everyone reading this know I love you. If I have ever done anything to hurt you, I am sorry! And if your life and seasons have left you feeling distant from people, it is ok. We all wake up to a new morning. We all have endless opportunities to reevaluate and make changes that will hopefully bring freedom…peace… and good (friends:)! 

LOTS OF LOVE TODAY! (AND EVERYDAY)

Molly

Good.

Its no surprise to those who know me well that one of my favorite past times is to sit and think. While my stumbling over unimportant thoughts used to be a real issue, God has graciously turned this practice into a healthy and healing practice. I just had a truly special 48 hours and I can’t help but sit and think about it all...

In two months I am marrying my favorite person on earth and this weekend we kicked off this magical and special time! Many of my closest friends flew in for a girly girl weekend full of flowers, cheer-sing, smiles, old stories and hot dogs. When people from different walks of life come together, newer friends meeting older friends, you only hope that hearts will be aligned even if its over babies or a shared love of bucket hats. I read a quote the other day, to paraphrase, find opportunities
to be good to people on a daily basis.

While this sounds lovely in sentiment, in actuality this concept is pretty challenging to live out. You have to check your differences at the door; personal opinions sometimes should stay personal. Your own biases may invite you to see your own flaws and judgements, well, they gotta go. This weekend I certainly ran my big mouth but what got me, how lovely and respectful my friends were regardless of the dinner table topics. And that is how it should be.

In a world where egos run a lot of circles and human cracks get in the way...way too often, I am feeling empowered to live differently as often as I can. I owe it to all the gracious, generous, loyal and good people in my life. The range of women and their heart's stories bless me, and I will not take this for granted.

I would encourage you to take inventory of the people in your life! Tell them, more than on their birthday how much you love them. If there is a wedge, pull it out. Replace it with a love gesture. Its always worth it. Its always worth choosing to be good to people.

Happy Monday!
Molly

Stop-Doing-List

"Sometimes our stop-doing list needs to be bigger than our to-do-list"  

This winter season I am trying to work on saying no more. It does feel a bit contrary to what I am used to or maybe even my supposed to standards. Since early February I have sensed this inner nudge encouraging me to re-write my "to-do-list" and turn it into a "stop-doing" list. One week in and I already feel a sense of relief! There is this natural peace walking around with me and my typical anxious vibe has subsided a little.

A few weeks ago I was spinning my wheels trying to identify why all of a sudden I was feeling so paralyzed, not being able to get the simplest responsibilities done. while I am experiencing a very significant loss in my life ( I will write about this another time :) one major A-HA moment I had...we are all grieving to some extent on a daily basis. A loss of a friendship. A loss of a job. A new school. A new diet. A change in our daily routines that shuts us down and closes us up! These "losses" are relative and can often find us feeling stuck.

January 1 every year equals a new calendar year. A new number we  write out when journaling or filling out paperwork. Its change and depending on your already high or low season you find yourself in...its more change and that can sometimes present a challenge. Not to mention this ridiculous pressure to finally figure your sh*** out now that its another new year new you situation. 

Just like culture says, I wrote out in my (new) journal all the (new) (fabulous) (extra productive) things I was going to do in 2022. And as per usual I crashed, almost immediately. So with the help of my incredible life coach and a lot of prayer...I realized my problem wasn't that I wasn't not doing enough, it was this unrealistic pressure and attempt to do TOO MUCH!

To summarize: Number one, I think its very healthy to reflect on what may be creating this "stuck" kind of feeling. It may be minor, or in my case insurmountable, regardless recognizing it is major. We all grieve all the time. Name what it is and that will allow you to move through the mud of it. Number two, I don't think very many of us need to do more. I think our problems may subside if we choose to do less. This sounds a little ridiculous and I am not talking about work-life balance. Whether you report to a desk or a dinner table or both, keep that up! We are happy and healthy when we use our hands. But in terms of the extra stuff that actually interferes with work-life or school-life, do less. Instead of going out, stay home, sip tea and read that book. Say no to social media for a week and see how you feel? Don't rush through dinner, sit at the table and actually have a conversation! Play really good music at home and enjoy games instead of being on your phones. Sit down this week and really think of all the little things your saying yes to. You may feel much freer and stronger if instead of saying yes, you full stop say NO. 

Lots of love, Molly

Message by molly

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Seasons Change & So Do We

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I think because it's now officially September and Starbucks put out pumpkin spice lattes and I planted my mum's already, mentally, I am living in October. Living in October means I am ready for pumpkins on the porch and waking up to a chill in the air. I want to sip my coffee on my rocking chair with thick socks on and bundle up in a blanket. Seasons amaze me. Does that sound kind of weird? Maybe. Either way, I think every single human hopes for newness. I believe we were all born to evolve and that process creates inside each one of us a hope for change, a newness. We all tend to find ourselves in unexpected places at times and that's OK. Personally, I am thankful for those places. I think those unexpected places force us to dig deeper. They encourage us to find the strength within us to step out and pursue something new. 

If you scroll down I leave you with a quote from one of my favorites, F.Scott Fitzgerald. To summarize, his quote motivates us to never stop hoping for that thing inside of you that says, "There is more!" There is more. You, me, all of us have crazy potential, dreams, desires, gifts and talents. Don't ever doubt that for one second. Take this fall season to step out and do that "thing" that you have been putting off. Do it. Don't worry about what anyone will think or how it may turn out. After all, aren't the things that scare us the most usually the things that end up changing are lives forever? 

XX, Molly 

Message by Molly

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OPEN TO CHANGE 

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Change is hard. No question. As humans we resist change because the idea of stepping out, trying something new is scary. We like to be comfortable, at least I do, and mixing up routines means letting go. I have found in my own life the things that I resist most, usually have insane blessings waiting for me. If only I choose to take the chance and let go. Jump in. Say yes. Or, say no. 

This past week I went to an event in NYC with some friends. I always say no to NYC because it takes a lot out of me. I know it's going to be expensive, I know it's going to require energy and smiling and chit chat. I found myself siting across from of a gal at a little Italian restaurant thinking, "I just love you!" I would never, ever have met her otherwise. We may or may not become besties, either way I loved connecting with a total stranger. She was totally outside of my world. It was unexpected and inspiring. 

Change can be doing something out of your "normal " routine. Change can be drastic like moving to a new state or going to a new school or losing a friend. I think the key to change is to be open to change, no matter what. It's not healthy for us to be cushy comfortable all the time. We can become ungrateful, bored, unhappy. Pushing yourself is the best thing you can do for your heart and soul and I want to get comfortable with change. I want to change my thinking, loving change.

I think changing our thinking has the power to change our lives!  For the better. 

XX, Molly 

made by Mackenzie

Made by Mackenzie

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about made by 

Made By is our newest blog series introducing y'all to amazing, inspiring, self-made women that decided to step out and pursue their dream job. It takes one story to encourage you. It takes that one resonating sentence to give you the courage to step out, too. The most important take away? Every single woman you will meet here cares about her dreams AND cares about you. This group of women live by example and are here to say, "You can do this too!"  

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Story 

How she launched Design Darling...

I started my blog Design Darling as a junior at Bucknell looking for a creative outlet outside my French language and literature major. That was almost nine years ago now and I’m so fortunate that Design Darling has become my full-time job and a way to connect with like-minded readers all over the world. I write primarily about decorating, personal style, and travel and keep a list of 101 things I want to accomplish in 1,001 days, which has been one of the most rewarding ways to inspire my readers and learn about the goals they’re tackling in their own lives!

6 things

Get to know this wonderful woman! 

1. Biggest dream/goal: Honestly right now my biggest goal is to expand my reach and connect with more women who love style and interiors but who also love sharing book recommendations, bucket list adventures, and personal and professional goals. If I could do what I’m doing now but reach ten times more people, I would be over the moon! In terms of dreaming big, one day my parents, husband, and I would love to buy and flip a house together. I think it would be a fascinating learning experience and so fun to document on Design Darling!

2. Role model: I know this is a cliché but my biggest role model is my mom. She raised four kids while working full-time at Ralph Lauren and Coach before going back to school to become a registered nurse. She’s living proof to me that you can have a wonderful family while continuing to pursue your own goals and that it’s never too late to shift gears and explore a completely new path.

3. Ice cream order: Cookie dough with rainbow sprinkles, always.

4. What really annoys you: I love the Madeline Albright quote that says, “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.” I feel so fortunate to have connected with people like Molly who are striving to empower other women and inspire the next generation. 

5. Music choice: Texas country to listen to while I work, rap while I’m working out, and Taylor Swift for singing in the shower. :)

6. Dream destination: So many!!! Australia, India, and Morocco are currently tugging at my heartstrings but there are also so many beautiful places here in New England that I’m anxious to explore.

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Be sure to follow her on insta., Mackenziehoran & become the next design expert by reading her blog, on the reg. here! 

She woke up different...

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Has anyone every asked you, "What is your love language?" I probably have. Lol. The 5 love languages are: words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time and physical touch. My number one love language? Words of affirmation. Usually people embody a of few of the five languages and it's not just regarding "being in love". As we all know there are many forms of  love. Being that love is the number one emotion we crave as humans, knowing your love languages are key in being able to identify what inspires you, what motivates you and what may push you too far. 


Affirmation and validation are closely linked, though, the act of affirming declares only truth where as validation, pokes at insecurity because there could be shades of grey, doubts or worse rejection. 

I have tried to make it part of my life's work to affirm girls and women because I have struggled closely with this fine line of wanting validation over trusting in affirmation. Affirmation comes when you follow your heart. I believe affirmation is a result of doing what you were born to do! Validation looms in the background when we pursue someone else's dream over our own dream. I watched this video on youtube about a guy who bought a sail boat instead of "the dream house." His dream house happened to be a sail boat not what's advertised in a magazine. I think a sailboat qualifies as major goals.

I would encourage you to find what fills up your cup. What inspires you every day to love your friends and family, pursue what moves your soul and leaves you feeling full. 

XX, Molly