The Mantle.

I recently redid my mantle and hesitated putting up pics because the decor isn't exactly fall-ish. I mean, I typically make my mantle a seasonal one, but I was so excited to execute a certain idea that I completely overlooked the fact that it is, in fact, FALL, and that perhaps I should incorporate it somehow. 

So, I tossed the pumpkin Cub picked from the pumpkin patch up there and voila! My mantle is seasonal once again.

:)

As for there rest of the design, there's a little story. I recently saw some shelving belonging to a friend of mine that had (what seemed to be) random items on display. However, the closer I looked, the more I realized that the objects somehow related to different aspects of her family's life and, essentially, told their story. I absolutely loved that idea and tried to figure out a way to incorporate it in my own home. I find that I get caught up in decor for the sake of decor-I typically assume that family pictures are the best way to make a home personal. But the idea of making the decor personal as well, in a less obvious way, is appealing and, really, pretty fun.

My hubby loves cycling and I found this beauty on clearance. Perfect!

I do photography as a little side business and I was thrilled when my Mom lent me her old Canon to display. It's a classic! The "B" is the first initial of my last name and the canvas is one I painted when Lydia was a newborn. It says "Choose Joy Today". I very easily get caught up in motherhood as the source of my identity. This gentle reminder of the source of my joy, God's love for me and the identity I have in Christ, is good news to me every time I read it.

The peonies are from a quaint little antique store that my friend and I visited a few years ago when Cub was a baby. I have so many fun memories from that trip and these flowers remind me of her friendship. And the Route 66 sign ... I love it! Part of Route 66 runs through our city. And, my first half marathon will be The Route 66 Marathon, so the "Get Your Kicks on Route 66" is totally fitting. The candle stands are from the wedding of a dear friend that also served as a reunion for some of my closest lifelong friends. There are really wonderful memories attached to those!

I've had the crazy flowers for a while and I love them because they remind me of the fields and wildflowers around our house. Bringing a little of the outside, inside. :)

There you have it! I know, it is probably mostly underwhelming, but I love the things it represents for our family and our lives. Our story on display.

Have a lovely day!