sante fe dreamin'

To kick off 2013, I went west -- to Sante Fe, New Mexico! Not only did I fall in love with the city, but I also fell in love with the style of "The West." From rich earth tone colors and handcrafted artistry to cowhide rugs and kilim patterns, it's all fabulous. And although I LOVED talking to the local shop owners, I was HORRIFIED when I found out half the things in their stores are imported to Sante Fe. Not local, not handmade, and I even saw the words "Made In China" on a glass bowl... GASP!

Needless to say, I returned home with no large purchases and just a small "good luck" ceramic pig for my man. I realize Sante Fe has many, many talented, authentic artists (including the now deceased Georgia O'Keeffe), so what a shame for them. Regardless, I still have a love for the "southwest" look and I find myself incorporating items into my home on a more regular basis.

This week I hit up a sample sale at Midwest-CBK, a store I've always admired. First off their displays are impeccable, and although mostly seasonal decor, they still have some fabulous rustic, shabby chic items. And when I say their displays are impeccable, I mean their whole store is impeccable... even the sample room. For those of you who've shopped a sample sale, you know what I'm talking about. Just think about the old saying, "It's like finding a needle in a haystack."

I found these kilim-inspired frames from their Toscana collection. And after a 75% discount they were $2 EACH! I know, I know. I couldn't pass them up. Neutral-colored, southwestern-themed and well built. It was meant to be. I'm thinking about incorporating them somehow into my pallet project, but I also think they'd go great on the shelves in my bedroom.

Where would you use these in your home? I think they'd go great with the pieces below.