Same Book… Different Characters
There’s something humbling about looking back at old photos.
Recently, I pulled together a collage—from my senior year of high school to today of my professional headshots. Different hairstyles, different looks, different seasons of life. Some confident, some unsure. Some polished, some still figuring things out.
At first glance, it feels like six different women.
But when I really look…
I realize it’s been the same story all along.
Just different chapters.
The Girl Who Was Watching
In high school, I remember often feeling like a spectator—present, but not fully part of things. I didn’t always feel like I belonged, even when I did.
Looking at that photo now, I wish I could tell her:
You’re more capable than you think. And your place in this world is already being built.
The Young Professional
As I stepped into my career, I was learning-how to show up, how to find confidence, how to build relationships.
I was still figuring it out (honestly, I still am), but I was starting to understand something important:
People don’t expect perfection… they remember how you make them feel.
The Years of Growth
There are photos where I see strength.
Others where I see exhaustion.
And some where I see both at the same time.
Running a business, raising a family, building a life—none of it comes with a straight line. There are seasons where you feel like you’re thriving, and others where you’re just doing your best to hold it all together.
Both count.
The Woman I Am Today
Today, I see someone who has lived a lot of life.
Not perfect. Not finished.
But grounded.
More comfortable in my own skin.
More aware that connection matters more than appearance.
More certain that relationships—not transactions—are what truly last.
What Hasn’t Changed
Through every version of me, one thing has stayed the same:
I’ve always cared deeply about people and felt the importance of family, friends, co-workers, mentors, coaches, business associates, clients and community.
That’s what built this business.
That’s what kept customers coming back.
That’s what turned clients and co-workers into friends—and friends into family.
It’s never just been about flooring.
It’s about trust. It’s about showing up. It’s about helping people create spaces where life happens.
Same Book… Just New Chapters
When I look at this collage now, I don’t see all the things I wish I could change.
I see a story still being written.
And I’m grateful for every version of me that got me here.
A Thought for You
If you have photos like this—old ones, new ones—take a moment to look at them.
Be kind to every version of yourself.
You were doing the best you could with what you knew at the time.
And that’s enough.
From My Story to Yours
I've now settled in to ownership of Dave Griggs' Flooring America, but even before I took that step I spent decades helping to shape our voice. Our team believe your home should reflect your story—every chapter of it.
Whether you're just starting out, in the middle of raising a family, or entering a new season of life… we’re here to help you create a space that feels like you.
Because the best spaces aren’t just designed…
They’re lived in.
Keep growing,
Michele
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