I Spy Something...

Reptilian.  I adore, Adore, ADORE tortoise shell decor!  In fact, I adore it so much that I've decided to incorporate an actual tortoise shell (or should I say "replica") into my bedroom.  Tortoise shells have been used in design in a variety of forms- hung on the wall, mounted on a stand, lacquered, bleached, displayed in shadow boxes, etc.    Here are some example interiors with reptilian flair:

via 10 rooms blog

  

via Windsor Smith

  

via Visual Vamp blog

via Pinterest

via Pinterest

Nate Berkus via Elle Decor

via Haus and Home

via Lonny

via Etsy

via Nibs blog

 via Karen Robertson

via Domino

I would like to have one hanging amongst a gallery of frames above our dresser, but they can be a bit pricey.  I've found some budget-friendly options like these...

 Sears - $74.99

And this guy...

West Elm - $79

These are great, don't get me wrong, but I'd still like to try and find a more authentic looking one.  Maybe at a beach souvenir store?  If any of you know where I can find a 15-20"+ replica for under $100, please comment/email me! 

It's Been a Long Time

I have been so super busy and haven't had the time (or the Internet connection) to blog.  We moved at the beginning of November and my husband and I have started our own law practice.  We are slowly getting things going with that, but in the meantime, I've been decorating up a storm at our place.  I don't have one room completely finished - though, I'm not sure I ever will!  My decorating ADHD seems to always get the best of me (much to my husband's chagrin).  Anyways, here is a sneak peak of our living room...

The couch and pillows were mine before the Hubs and I got married.  We haven't ventured out to buy anything new yet, but that is honestly way down on the list to do.  I posted about the trellis rug here.  The ottoman was a Home Goods score that my mother bought for me as a birthday gift.  Thanks, Mom!  We are replacing the throw with a pretty teal one that is currently stored away.  I thought it would help bring out the beautiful shades of blue in the DIY art gallery (I'll share more about that project later).  And, as you can see, we don't have window treatments, so those will have to be purchased sometime in the near future. 

I've obviously got some work left to do and will be posting my progress as I go along.