I had a feeling this would happen

This Friday officially kicks off spring break and that means it's time for shorts, flip flops, and spring cleaning!  There is enough to do around this house to last the entire two weeks, but first things first. 

I got a head start when I decided to CL the family room rug.  We've had it for 5 years and although it's comfortably hosted many a cousin sleep over, it was getting tired.  I loved it in the winter, but it always felt a little hot here in the AZ sun.  Since we're getting prepared for fierce temperatures, it was a good time to see it go.

You know when you change one thing in your home and it's like pushing over the first domino....I had a feeling this would happen.  All of a sudden I've got a stack of artwork, mirrors, and other accessories waiting to see their way out the door.

But who knew that replacing a family room rug could be such a BIG deal?

I know I need at least a 9 x 12, it's got to be comfortable, affordable, and something that will stand the test of time.  With the three ring circus that goes on daily, high maintenance won't work.  I've decided I want a natural fiber (ie jute, seagrass, etc) rug, and I found a beautiful cow hide to layer on top. 

Let's just say that 20 hours on the computer later, I'm still at square 1. 

I've researched every natural fiber including it's origin, the way it wears, cost, and comfort.  I found some helpful tips from Lauren Liess {here}.  I also found a great source for natural fiber rugs if you're looking for an 8 x 10 or smaller {here}. 

I've checked out every retail store from Urban Outfitters to Restoration Hardware, but you know I'm not a retail girl.  I've worked in the design industry long enough to know all about the mark up system, and I just don't think it's in me! 

I've shopped carpet stores for remnants and thought about how I could piece two rugs together. I've called every Pottery Barn outlet store from here to NY, hoping they'd have what I was looking for at a fraction of the price, and ship it right to my door.  Nope.  Trust me, I've even thought about getting a part time job for the employee discount.  After all, Jilly and I first laid eyes on each other while folding the denim wall at the Gap!

After loosing sleep and neglecting the children, here are the top 3 picks so far.  Each come in a 9 x 12, are comfortable, and could potentially be affordable if I sold my first born.

Chunky Wool and Natural Jute rug from Pottery Barn {here} $649.00

Ribbed Natural Wool and Jute rug from EZ Buy Furniture {here} $530.00

Mini Pebble Jute and Wool rug from West Elm {here} $699.00

I'f you've scored any good deals on a 9 x 12, comfortable, jute, rug and you care about me at all, you'll tell me about it NOW so I can go back to being a good mother.

Until then, we're teaching the Nino how to use his inside voice so the neighbors don't hear all our family secrets echoing off of the cold, hard, tile.