When we moved to the south end of Seattle a year ago, the thing that shocked me was how hidden our house seemed, and how all of the wild creatures in the entire city seemed to take advantage of that fact. In the past year I’ve watched complicated squirrel games (they love to climb our kiwi tree), been on a neighborhood “coyote alert,” seen my first pair of hummingbirds, and spent hours looking out my window as finches built a nest in the vines below. I’ve even heard that the eagles I see every once in a while will fly low and perch in our trees sometimes.

So, of course, I can’t wait for spring and summer.

Neither can Etsy, it seems: they’re current featured seller is Bearpaw Rustics, a maker of birdhouses, plant stands, hiking sticks – basically all the things that remind me to get my butt outside and watch spring move into the city.

Birdhouse by Bearpaw Rustics

I watched my finches make a little birdhouse that looked like this out of twigs, leaves and some of my errant dryer lint. It lasted all season and I left it up in case another bird family wants to use it next year. Eventually, though, that little birdhouse is going to break down and fall off of the vine it’s attached to, whereas one bought from Bearpaw Rustics ($25) will last much, much longer, and will encourage birds to make homes where YOU want, instead of on the lamppost above your carport.

Etsy is also taking a vote on Spring Fashions for their new Gift Guides. I’m kind of stoked about this, because not only do I now have another way to influence who the top sellers are, but I also have a way to browse for new favorite Etsy artists! Here are some of the neat finds this vote has brought me:

Tulip sleeved blouse with silver trimming - Mirth Quake Clothing

This pretty handmade blouse is from Mirth Quake’s Doll House collection: “The inspiration for this collection lies in leaving behind your childhood, but never losing the child-like spirit.” I can’t think of a better mindset for setting up birdhouses and watching the new flowers press up from the earth. ($68.)

Organic Bamboo Sundress - Miss Branch

First, I have to note that Miss Branch lives in Seattle and I have plans to track her down one of these days for a custom design. That is, when I have the extra cash! Until then, I’ll settle for what’s already in her Etsy shops, most of which can be custom-fitted (the above sundress included!). This dress is a little out of my price range at $115, but many of her pieces are as wage-friendly as they are eco-friendly, and since they range from day-at-the-park to night-on-the-town, almost anyone can find something that totally fits their style.

However, if you’re going for more bang for even less buck, try these on for size:

Spring Green Poppy pins - Poppy Chic Designs

$6.50! And they come in all sorts of colors. If you’re not into bobby pins, she’s also got poppy jewelry and corsages. She’s even been featured on Brides.com!

Phoenix Wing Earings - Nova Designs

If you’re looking for something a little more in-your-face, try these Phoenix Wing Earings ($49) from Nova Designs. I’d love to see how that hammered copper catches the light.

Pretty colors, childhood fun, nature going nuts – that’s what screams “spring!” to me. What reminds you of spring? Is it a certain smell, or the smell of flowers in bloom? Let me know what inspires you this time of year!

Tags: Awakened Options: Organic, clothing, etsy, Fashion, handmade, housewares, inspiration, Jewelry