Inside Melly's Mind

I had a great time on Saturday, mingling with some other bloggers and getting inspired. I've been making a conscious effort in 2016 to go to more blogger events and be more involved in the blogosphere in general. I feel like I could do better but it's going well, so far. When I saw that the Big Bloggers Meet Up was happening, I made a mental note to go along to it. June came round so quickly that I almost forgot. Anyway, a mere £5.50 later, I was booked in and ready to get the train the next day. We arrived Stirlings Bar, in St Paul's Square just about on time. I invited my cousin Naomi along, as she's about to launch into the blogosphere too. I figured it would be good for her to network and she loved it. The first talk was from super lovely Jem, founder of Iced Jems . She talked about how her brand grew and what she did to get to where she is now. She owns a lovely baking shop in Stourbridge, not too far from me, so I'll be popping in some time. I

This is the second in my Blog Every Day in May challenge. Today, I'm musing on encouragement. Last week, I felt totally rubbish. Have you ever felt a little bit naff but can't quite put your finger on why? Well, that was me, for about a week or so. It was awful. I think that those moments happen to all of us and no matter how long it lasts, you are allowed to feel your feelings. Try not to wallow for too long. One thing that I try to make a habit of doing is encouraging people. Whether you'll admit it or not, everyone likes to be encouraged. Sometimes it comes in the form of praise for something you've done; "great job." Other times, it will come in the form of a gentle nudge; "you can do it. Keep going." Either way, you can't deny that it feels really good. You know what? Making someone feel good can actually make your day too. Over the past few days, I've gone out of my way to encourage a couple of blogger friends. That's n

It's been a while since I did a 'facts about me' sort of post, so I thought this would be a good idea for a little catch up.  1. I was born on Groundhog Day - which means absolutely nothing in England but it is the name of a pretty popular film. I for one would love to wake up in the same day over and over, because I'd always wake up to cards and presents.  2. I love many many genres of music but most people won't know that I love country music. My grandparents used to play it and I think that's where it started.  3. The last concert I went to was Duran Duran (with Seal as their special guest and The Bloom Twins as their support act) at the O2 Arena, last December.  From my shoot with Yasmin Qureshi 4. I wanted to be a teacher, up until the age of about 18, when I realised that I didn't enjoy teaching very much. I used to make lesson plans and teach my teddies.  5. My first ever job was in Clintons.  6. I like candles but rarely bu