Diversions (or Things I Covet)

There is so much awesomeness online, I can't help but feel compelled to share some of my findings with you. I spend way too much time on the Internet to not do something at least partially constructive with the list of treasures I find...

If you're at all concerned with building a stylish, small, and temporary nest for yourself, I'm sure you're heard of Apartment Therapy. They're the harbingers of design who, in their own words, are "saving the world, one room at a time."

Yesterday, they featured some art that I just refuse to accept as paintings.



I mean, that's got to be a photo from the 70s, right?
Artist David Imlay is clearly a master of the brush. Go read the write-up at Apartment Therapy for more paintings and information.



Also, in keeping with my my love for all things whimsical, bizarre, hilarious, and vaguely old-timey, there is this:



This dandy Boxer dog is the brainchild of The Utilitarian Franchise. Please go check out their Etsy shop. You won't be disappointed.



And finally, here's a picture of an awesome glittery purple skull I bought yesterday.



No, no 99 Cent Store... Thank you!

Butterflies (or Flutterbys)

A few weeks ago, my husband and I took a little trip down to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Though this place is practically a second home to us, we have somehow managed to bypass the Cockrell Butterfly Center every single time.

Huge mistake.

Upon receiving free passes from Josh's mom, we figured we'd finally give it a shot. (If it's free, it's for me, right?)
I'm so glad I'm a cheapskate because words really can't express how beautiful this place is!



A three story waterfall serves as a centerpiece to the rainforest under the massive glass dome. This lush rainforest provides a home for tons and tons and TONS of butterflies!





You can't not find a butterfly at this place - they're everywhere! I don't think there's a square foot that's not occupied by at least 2 butterflies at any given time. I think my previous butterfly garden reluctance was due to another garden I'd been to many moons ago and my 7 year old self was highly disappointed when the butterflies were basically nowhere to be found. A let-down indeed.

I was especially lucky that day, though - one landed square on my head!



He was a cool guy...



We hung out a surprisingly long time before he had to go. He said had to meet his publisher for coffee and then get his kid from daycare. He was a sweet guy.



Anyway, if you're ever in Houston, this is the absloute best place to go. You won't forget it!