I’m exhausted.
Too many trees, tinsel, garland, wreaths, ornaments (you get the idea) to pack away.
When the last box was finally hauled down to the basement, I was confronted with a blank, empty, barren mantel.
It mocked me and let out a little chuckle every time I walked by or sat by the roaring fire.
But I’ve recuperated and was sick of staring at that blank wall – I’ll show it who’s boss.
I went with a vintage rustic winter mantel – lots of tarnished silver (because who has time to polish) and weathered wood.
Don’t be intimidated by the perfect hand lettered chalkboards you see everywhere.
Just pick up that piece of chalk (dip the chalk in water to get a darker mark) and start drawing – these simple snowflakes were a cinch.
And of course my best accessory …
I think Sushi’s been voguing in front of the mirror when I turn my back because she sat and held this pose forever – making sure I captured her good side.
Here’s to keeping it simple …
and hoping Sushi doesn’t hire an agent.
If you want to see what my Christmas mantel looked like – take my Christmas house tour.
This is perfection to me, Kelly — I’m all about the rustic wood and tarnished silver! Mind if I come over and prop my feet up in front of your fire?
xo heidi
Come on over – don’t forget the wine!
Love everything you do. Your chalkboard snowflakes have inspired me to maybe make a cross stitch like it. I love it. You are amazing.
That sounds gorgeous – I’d love to see it when you’re done Lisa!
I love your model!
Sushi says thanks and if you need her, call her agent!
Kelly, When you grab your camera, does Sushi go into posing mode? She is the perfect little prop! Still love those blue chairs and your mix of the old with the new. Such a lovely home 🙂
Not always – but she did seem mesmerized by the tripod and all the rearranging – I think she’s a decorator trapped in a dogs body!
how ’bout that? Very nice!
Thanks Joyce!
I can tell you that your mantel is definitely a showstopper….Love every detail and what a great job you did on the chalkboard….and then there is Sushi…..and steals the show!….Yes, I think she may be handing you a contract soon!!
Maybe I can retire once Sushi hits it big!
Sushi is clearly the best accessory! Love the rustic simplicity of this!
Sushi says she needs to model her bikini in Aruba!
Sushi is a star I must say! Love what you did on the mantel…the tarnished silver has that, “it’s cold out there and I’m growing a beard” type of feel, and against the warm, rough wood…perfection.
Love your style, and live it through your talent!!
Is Spring coming????
Thanks Taylor – as long as I’m not growing a beard I’m happy!
Love your winter mantle. That rustic wood box with the trays have me swooning!
But my favorite of all is your precious puppy modeling by the fire!
Thanks Pat – Sushi sends her love!
Its looking great!
Thanks so much Suzie!
It’s perfect! You have such a way with decor. Love your puppy!!
Thanks Deb – Sushi truly is the best little accessory!
Kelly, I love your mantel and I think I have almost every single item you have on it or at least a close substitute. I may try and recreate your look on my own mantel this weekend. Your little friend is the cutest too!
How fun Becky – looks like we love the same things!
Oh how I love weathered wood. And you always use it so artfully. I need to something with chalkboard too. I’ve enjoyed your blog for a long time.
Since you like weathered wood so much, you may be interested in the weathered barn wood and recycled old wood signs I make. I use inspirational, country and whimsical sayings. And lots of color. Please visit my Etsy shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/rosemarypainterlady
Rosemary Weiss
Thanks for sharing Rosemary – such beautiful signs!
The puppy is the most precious addition to the fireplace area………..the rest is icing on the cake!
Sushi certainly is the star!
Hello Kelly , love your blog , love everything you create ,love your little dog adorable ,
keep up your excellent creative work.
Thank you so much Henrietta! Sushi and I will keep on creating!
Sushi is so cute ,if she gets an agent she might make you rich. Love your mantle it is dazzling,truly one of the best ones i have seen.
I’m hoping we’re walking down the street one day and Sushi gets discovered! I just know it’s going to happen!
Love your mantel and Sushi! She is just so so cute!
Thanks Julia – she wouldn’t be here without you!
I like the vignette that you’ve created, it looks wonderful! I love the snow theme, I have stayed with the same idea, snowmen even! After all it is still winter for a very long time here in Manitoba where I live. The roaring fire is gorgeous, I have a beautiful fireplace in our “new” to us house, but I have not gotten anyone in to inspect it and apparently, our fire insurance will go up substantially, another reason not to use it. Sadly.
Thanks Cindy! A shame you can’t sit before a roaring fire. I converted mine to gas – love the flick of a switch for instant ambiance! Your snowmen sound adorable!
Awwwwwww Sushi is such a beauty! The mantel is quite beautiful too.