arianna belle

This week's blogger participating in the series "5 Things That Made a Difference" is Emily of Emily A. Clark. If you don't already know and love Emily, she's a mother of three and a super talented interior decorator with her own business. Her always inspiring blog often features beautiful before and afters and great budget finds. Read on to find out what five things have positively influenced her life:

1. My Parents They never failed to encourage me and my brother and sister while we were growing up. Whether we could do something or couldn't, we were always told we could!

2. The BibleIt's full of God's promises and inspiration for every day.

3. Other Design Blogger MomsReading their blogs is what encouraged me to start my own blog and design business. I'm always amazed by how much they get done, both personally and professionally. Just a few of my favorites: Little Green Notebook, Isabella & Max Rooms, Holly Mathis Interiros, and Pure Style Home.

4. Color I'm always inspired by strong color when decorating my own home. It makes me feel happy and creative.

5. The Blind Side I loved the story behind this movie. It reminds me that it's important to help people and okay to fight for the right things.

Thanks to Arianna for asking me to participate in this fun series!

This week's blogger participating in the series "5 Things That Made a Difference" is Flavia Heupel of Estilo Home. Flavia and I met through our blogs months ago and have bonded over our shared love of design, and shared life experiences and situations. I love how blogging brings together kindred spirits! Late last year I was excited to cheer her on as she accepted a full-time interior design position and left her stable yet uninspiring and unfulfilling job. Read on to find out what five things have positively influenced her life:

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I was so happy when Arianna invited me to participate in this series! Not only was I flattered, but I also thought it would be a great opportunity to think about some of the positive influences in my life.

1. First is my husband, who is always there to encourage me, support me, and love me unconditionally. A lot of the positive changes going on in my life would not have been possible without him. He is my number one cheerleader when it comes to pursuing my dream of a career in Interior Design. I have recently accepted a job in the field that comes with some financial and scheduling sacrifice, but he was fully supportive of my decision. He makes life a little easier and a lot more fun!

2. I was born in Brazil, and though I have lived in the U.S. for nearly 20 years, I still try to remind myself of the positive attitude Brazilians live by, no matter how difficult life can get. They truly know how to celebrate life!

3. My first Interior Design teacher is another important person that helped to change my life’s direction. I took his class when I first started considering design as a career. After turning in my final project, my teacher was incredibly encouraging and helped me believe in myself. Anytime self-doubt creeps in, I remember my teacher’s positive words that I have what it takes to do this!

4. Last year I took a blogging course taught by Holly Becker of Decor8. As she told us her story, one of her quotes really stuck with me: “Fear is a better feeling than regret.” I found this to be so true, and I try to keep this quote in mind to push myself outside my comfort zone and live life to the fullest.

5. My Australian Shepherd Mac. I grew up with a fear of dogs, but once my husband (somehow!) convinced me to get a puppy, fear immediately went away when I laid eyes on this adorable dog! Seeing him so happy all the time is a reminder that there are simpler pleasures in life. And of course walking him is a great excuse for getting some fresh air and exercise!

5 Things That Made a Difference to Emily