A Note from My Heart
Before you read any new blog content or see a post on my social media, I wanted to share something incredibly personal and painful — a note written in loving memory of Cody. Our son, Cody, took his own life. Writing that sentence still feels unreal, and the grief we’re carrying as a family is beyond words. This is a note from my heart.
Blogging has always been more than just a business for me. It’s been my happy place — a creative outlet where I find joy in crafting, learning new DIY skills, and connecting with you. I’ve spent countless hours over the past weeks in deep sadness, and I know this grief will be part of me forever. There’s no “moving on” from this, only learning to move forward — slowly, painfully, and with a heart that will always miss him.
Many of you have followed our story for years. You watched Cody grow up — from the little boy with the cowboy-themed bedroom to a young man who loved skiing, working on his cars and truck, hiking, loving on his dogs,and being an incredible friend to so many. He had a big heart, a sharp wit, and a presence that filled a room. I’m not quite ready to share too much about him publicly yet — it’s still too raw. But I will. In time, I will.
For those who have asked how they can help or honor Cody’s memory, a GoFundMe has been created in his name. Your kindness, whether through support or simply sharing, means the world to our family. Thank you to everyone who has already shared or donated.
To be honest, part of me has been afraid to come back online. I’ve worried that sharing DIYs or styling tips again might seem out of place or invite judgment. But this space — my blog, my Instagram — it’s where I feel most like myself. And I know in my heart, Cody would want me to keep doing what I love. He would want me to find happiness again, even if that feels far away right now.
So I’m gently beginning to step back into this world. Please be patient with me. Some posts you’ll see in the coming days were written and scheduled before this tragedy — I’ll add a note when that’s the case, just so you know they come from a different moment in time.
I’m entering therapy, still grieving deeply, and still figuring out how to live in this new reality. But I’m also committed to honoring Cody in everything I do. His life mattered, and his legacy will live on — not just in our family, but in this community that has always supported us so beautifully.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for allowing me space to share, to create, and to heal — one tiny step at a time.
With all my heart,
A note from my heart,
Melaine
If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling
Please know you are never alone. If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health challenges, there is help and support available:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 (available 24/7 in the U.S.)
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Text “HELLO” to 741741 for free, confidential support via the Crisis Text Line
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Visit 988lifeline.org for more resources
You are loved. You are needed. Please reach out.
Please know we’re friends here, so no explanation or judgements are needed, do what you feel is best for you, warm hugs for you
I’m here for you! I know the silent suffering!❤️🙏
Take care of yourself. ❤️🙏🙏
Melanie – I have indeed followed your blog from the time your kids were little. I remember whisk – Stir – whip in your kitchen skylight, I remember the amazing Halloween decor you would set up for your kids, I remember every bedroom re-fresh, including Cody’s cowboy theme. I think that after a while the designers / creative artists that we follow become so familiar, that we feel like we know them. I have boys that are Cody’s age, and my heart shattered when I learned of this tragedy. Your strength and grace during this time is remarkable. Never stop creating and sharing – your talents have impacted so many. Praying for continued strength, peace and treasured memories for you and your family…..
this👆 I remember all of this too. I have been with you for a long time and feel like I “know” your family. my heart is broken for you all and I hope that you all feel love and supported. ❤️❤️
Ive followed you for years and watched your children grow and with them the evolution of their rooms. When I saw your post about Cody it took my breathe away, I couldn’t believe what I was reading, especially because I always thought of you and your families pain with a major loss not long ago. All I can say is please do anything and everything that helps bring you any sense of normalcy or light, blog, home, writing here, we are here for you, we care and send you so many prayers and hugs, xoxo Belinda
Sending our love and prayers!!!!
No wise words just sending love and sympathy your way…….so sorry for your incredible loss. ❤️
Sending all my love, Melaine.
You are being cloaked in prayers. Sending you love and healing, ❤️🩹
Just like he couldn’t fully understand the depth of your love for him, know that his love for you is endless. You are so brave to share your heart with us and it’s a privilege we, as a community, don’t take lightly. Cody would want you to have every resource available, including this one, to nurture your heart. Sending so much love and lifting you in daily prayers.
Im glad to hear that you’re going to seek therapy. I think that will be beneficial. If it was me, I definitely would do that! What you’re going through is HUGE! When you are ready, I hope that you will return to posting home decor in the future. I think it will help you feel some normalcy again and keep you socially connected. I always enjoy your posts! Give yourself time to grieve though. We will be here when you’re ready.
Sobbing. Love you. 💗
You could very well be helping other families right now who have gone through the same experience…..ur blogging friends are here for you with no judgement on how u begin to move forward…..everybody copes in different ways and hopefully like u said you will handle it in ur way❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I’m so glad you posted. This blog has been a big part of your life and there’s a lot of people who care about you! I’ve also been following you from the beginning. I have been thinking (and praying) for you and your beautiful family.
Melaine, still crying over here with you. We have prayed over you and your sweet family. Sending you big mama hugs and please know we support whatever you feel is best for your life! Only you can know that and no one else. So glad you have a good support system and a therapist. Love, Summer and family
Sending love and prayers!
Good heavens. Prayers for you and your family
Melanie,
I’m a long time enjoyer of your blog. Have always loved seeing your kids and how you created fun rooms for them.
The grief you are now in as you process losing Cody is unimaginable. You found great strength to write this post and I pray that God continues to strengthen you and your family each day as you navigate this painful journey.
❤️