Pirate ships and nautical love + DIY

The view from Seal Rock

Last weekend, the hubby and I went to Newport beach with some friends. And let me tell you, I adore the beach. I could sit and watch the ocean for hours. Listening to the crashing of waves and looking out on the vastness of blue makes you realize how big the world really is (and how small and insignificant everyday worries can be).

There were so many starfish in so many colors. 

My friend Amy told me they are actually called sea stars-- I had no idea! 

Eventually we wandered over to the bayfront to peruse the shops and enjoy the sunshine (and taste the salt water taffy...) -- and THIS is what we happened across:

Pirate ships! Complete with American flags, pirate flags, and firing cannons! I only wish I could've gotten a closer look at the beauty in those ships. The stained wood and billowing canvas was gorgeous.

And of course, my trip to the beach inspired me to create something nautical:

I love stripes!

Another headband :) I seem to have a thing for headbands lately. (If you'd like to know how to make a pleated flower like this, go here)

My cat Ruby was a good sport in modeling it for me:

She probably hates me for this.

Now I dream of light summer breezes and wearing my nautical headband with the perfect carefree dress, like this seersucker one from EmersonMade that I am in love with:

How perfect are those brass buttons? If only it weren't (yikes!) 218 dollars... Guess I better start expanding my horizons with my sewing machine :)