Summer 2012 Mantel Starfish Spangled

Just in time for Independence Day I finally took down my Christmas mantel and put up my summertime mantel decor.

Overcoming procrastination is on my To Do List.

This mirror used to hang over the mantel of my very first house, but when we moved in here I wanted something different. Now the mirror has been gone long enough that she is the something different, so she made her way back above the fireplace. I love the way she reflects light.

I also love how my son likes to photobomb my pictures, popping up from the back of the couch like a whack-a-mole just at the right time.

I went super simple on this mantel, shopping my house as usual. The only new items up there are these ruffled aqua pots so I wanted to showcase them by stacking one inside the other. Then I added a seashell ball under a cloche and flanked them with the old standby Biltmore Inspirations wish jars.

On the left I used my Cracker Barrel driftwood bowl with a starfish inside and yet another seashell ball under a cloche. Repetition. I like it.

And since my flowers are literally dying on the vine in this 105 degree record heat wave I picked a few stems to enjoy the last crinkly blooms before they wither away. These are hosta leaves with blue delphinium (sad, sad, crackly flowers. We need rain.)

More starfish hang out in my silver vases while rusted stars lean underneath for a touch of Americana.

So that’s it… my simple, star spangled summertime mantel.

I’m kicking myself for missing the deadline to enter in the Summer Mantel Link Party at the Lettered Cottage. I wonder if I sweet talk ’em if I could get them to add my link. 😉 Won’t hurt to ask, right?

Have you redone your mantel for summertime? I’d love to see it!