Tabitha Emma...

I get so many compliments on the design of my blog header, and while I wish I could take credit, it's actually the work of super talented Aussie designer and illustrator, Tabitha Emma. I came across Tabitha's work while researching a blog post, and immediately knew I needed her to design my blog.

Every day when I open up my computer, her adorable design inspires me to get to blogging. So I was thrilled to discover these lovely prints from Tabitha. Perfect for a little reading nook where you can curl up with a warm cup of tea and a great book. Shop here.

Cuteness...

This adorable little metal owl was one of my favorite details from the newest Lonny, and definitely put me on the hunt for one of these Curtis Jere style sculptures. In the meantime, I think I'll be getting my fix from this owl knob from Anthro. Too cute.

Etsy Fave: Sharon Montrose

I'm declaring 2010 the year of the bird. Ok, fair enough, when have birds ever NOT been trendy in the design world? This year, however, I think we're going to see a lot more birds of the clunky, quirky variety. No more cutesy robins and nightingales -- I'm thinking haunting owls, cranes, wobbling ducks, hawks, and big fat chickens. I like to think of them as birds with personality.

My favorite source for affordable, stunning bird photography (and lots of other animals, if you're so inclined) is Sharon Montrose, a California-based photographer who's received lots of recognition in the blogosphere, especially for this picture.

I own the owl photo pictured at top, and out of everything in my gallery wall, it is consistently the most commented on. Sharon's work is so surreal that everyone thinks that it's a drawing instead of an actual photograph. I love how the clean white background really puts the focus on the aesthetics of each bird-- from the muted colors, patterns and texture of their feathers to their bumpy, bright beaks and feet. Check out more of Sharon's stuff in her Etsy shop here.