Confession: as much as I have always loved Charlie’s nursery, we never actually finished it. Our original idea was a classic baby blue and gray palette with light Texas-inspired details, inspired by the chambray “Texas Forever” calligraphy banner I knew I wanted to hang up (it was a prop from my favorite Southern Weddings shoot I worked on!). Here was my inspiration board:

Clockwise from top left: Kristen Kilpatrick via Southern Weddings, The Animal Print Shop, Apryl Ann via Southern Weddings, Loft Creative Co., sheets

But, we never ordered any other prints for the walls that tied the whole look together, and his animal mobile (which I LOVE) didn’t go with that theme, loose of a theme as it was. And then, after we took the mobile down when Charlie started standing, we were left with a big blank wall! Over the past few weeks, I’ve been brainstorming ways to finish the room for our almost-one-and-a-half-year-old–it won’t be quite a nursery, but not quite a “big boy” room either. Dave and I discussed a few different directions: travel/adventure, which I think I’ll save for a future playroom, and lions/Aslan, in honor of Charlie’s favorite animal and one of our favorite books that we hope he’ll love someday too. We ultimately decided on what you might call a “heroes” theme :) There’s nothing Charlie loves more than books, and we’re passionate about sharing meaningful, deeply inspiring stories with him throughout his childhood. The details in this new design center around encouraging him to read and fostering his knowledge of and familiarity with Saints (some of the MOST inspiring heroes!). I am so excited to bring it to life!

Clockwise from top left: ABC Saints poster by Studio Senn (obsessed with everything in her shop!), Rock My Style, nightstand, Be a Heart Design, armchair, Good, Good Father, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, Lolek: The Boy Who Became Pope John Paul II, Saints for Boys, San Damiano crucifix

We already have most of those books, the beautiful crucifix, and the navy gingham mini armchair, so we’re well on our way! I definitely want to install some open shelves or picture ledges for some favorite books to create a little reading nook above the chair. I will miss the Texas Forever banner, but since I’ve so enjoyed having it up, I’d love to find a calligrapher to letter a different banner for the room–maybe with “Courage, dear heart” (C.S. Lewis) or “Be not afraid” (Saint John Paul II).

So, what do you think? And if you know of any amazing products or great books that we should add to the wish list, let me know! :)