Well, look who’s back.

After five and a half years of losing myself in France—part romantic cliché, part emotional demolition site—I’ve finally rescued the real Melly. 

Yes, there were baguettes and lavender fields. There was also a hefty dose of depression and isolation that at times brought me to my knees. Honestly, I lost my mojo. As a consequence, I ghosted the podcast, the newsletter, and social media without so much as a dramatic farewell post. Just… poof, like the wicked witch of the west. Gone.

But plot twist: I’m back in Dubai. The fog’s lifted, the fire’s back on, and for the first time in ages, I’m ready—actually ready—to pick things back up. This next chapter will be a fresh inhale after a long time underwater and it feels like a proper reset. No performative “new me” declarations, just a grounded sense that something has shifted. There’s energy again. There’s purpose, a real sense of renewal (and possibly a mild caffeine/wine dependency).

So, the podcast is being resurrected. The newsletter’s getting a pulse. And I’m dipping a toe back into the social media pool. It feels like a genuine new start—with warmer weather and better Wi-Fi.

Thanks for sticking around.

Let the games begin…

Smelly Melly x

P.S. Today’s the 1st of May, and in true French tradition, it’s customary to gift a sprig of Lily of the Valley to friends and loved ones—for luck and prosperity in the months ahead. So here’s mine to you, virtually delivered, but sincerely meant. 🌿

Fragrantly yours,
Melanie Jane.

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