Artist
Writer
Here's the deal. For me, writing is not an option. It has always been there, and it is always tapping me on the shoulder. It wants to be freed. It is always nagging at me like a cranky baby, it wants to be born. I can no longer neglect the intense desire because of excuses or doubts. So here I am, shedding excuses. I am a writer, and I shall write.
Fierce Pollyanna
People called me “Pollyanna” for years before I realized it was supposed to be an insult! We can’t all be cynics and "too-cool-for-school". I happen to be fierce, nutty, funny, weird, optimistic and unbearably light most of the time. Sure, life pushes my cork down to the depths of the sea, where I struggle to breathe, but my sunny nature just keeps popping that cork back to the surface. I like to float!
“Shelly’s an inspiring and supportive woman to all the people that surround her. She is a student, and a teacher, and committed to personal growth . She is a voracious reader and retains all the information that she gleans to share it with others in hopes of healing the world. She’s a positive force, a real motivator and oh so motivated. She is one of the most inspired, talented and creative women I have ever met. Art, laughter and music is all around her and always flowing from her. I am blessed and honored to call her my friend.”
Susan Horner“I have known Shelly for six years As soon as I met her I was attracted to her self- confidence, openness and ability to speak her truth. Since then I have had the pleasure of doing some intimate personal work with her. What I admire about Shelly is that she is true to herself even when it’s emotionally painful and she trusts the universe will provide. She is a fierce Pollyanna who always sees the bright side and she is a master of manifestation. We share a lot of similar situations and she has been a great teacher for me. She is also an amazing artist and encourages and believes that everybody has the ability to succeed. She has done more personal work than anyone I have ever known and loves to share her wisdom with any who would like to hear it. I am excited to see where the future takes her.”
Denise Davis“If you’re looking for a bright spot in this world, Shelly is it!
As I walked through the door of her tattoo studio 5 years ago, I knew she was a person I could never forget. I was automatically drawn to her warm spirit and zest for life. Shelly is a “no bullshit” kind of gal, and you never have to guess where you stand with her. Shelly will inspire you, encourage you, and help you grow. I admire Shelly’s passion for her vision and her drive. She marches to the beat of her own drum, sprinkling her Fierce Pollyanna magic wherever she goes. Working with her has truly been a once in a lifetime experience. If you are looking for a genuine person and a true inspiration, I strongly urge you to meet Shelly.”
Brittany Bersin
Afraid of Change? This One’s For You
Are you afraid of change? I’m not. In fact, I give ‘em a cuddle. What would my life be like if things didn’t change? Stale, boring, stagnant. Oh yessss, some of the changes are messy, some annoying (I’m looking at you HOT FLASHES!) and some utterly dreadful. But...
read more
How I Became a Tattoo Artist: My Tattoo School Days to Today
Deciding to become a tattoo artist was no picnic as I had miniscule support from the people around me. I was on track to become an arts administrator, studying at the local university and I was in my late thirties! Everyone thought I was CRAZY. I worked part time as...
read more
Fake Positivity? Not Here!
I always knew I was different. Something weird about me. I tended to annoy others with my Pollyanna positivity. And currently, choosing to enjoy life and keep my thoughts going in a feel good direction seems to elicit a 'not real' response in some people. They...
read more
Why Life Still Happens: What to Do When Shit Hits the Fan
I had one side of my head shaved...feeling brave. Life still happens! Tell me why! Why? WHY? There is never really a sufficient answer that will satisfy. But when shit hits the fan, at least you can DO something about it. Life wants to grab you by the hair and twirl...
read more
Healing Chronic Pain: My Journey to Healing
HOPE: The hope for healing from chronic pain. Reading, listening, watching videos and doing lots of writing. Untangling this mindbody connection of chronic pain. Such a revelation to see how much the brain tries to protect us from "unacceptable" or unbearable...
read more
Fling the Monster: Hard at Work on The Tattoo Textbook
Time continues to swirl and twirl and slip along, even when I’m not noticing. I look up and days have gone by and I wonder “what the heck have I been doing”? OH YEAH..working on a tattoo textbook!! OY…I literally had no idea how much time this was going to take. My...
read more