A new idea for my fireplace mantel

I have been struggling with our fireplace room since we moved in. I painted the old maroon bricks a crisp white and the rest of the fireplace a dark gray. I love the way the clock looks in the picture below. I was going to make an old "cottage" style clock but this could be a little easier to create. I also love the driftwood sailboat to the left. If I ever make it the beach this summer and be lucky enough to find the "right" driftwood this could be a great little project. I will keep you updated. I have purchased the paint to cover our awful stained ceiling tiles and Styrofoam beams on the ceiling, just need to get a move on it!
By the way, I found these pics on....... www.frugalfarmhousedesign.blogspot.com