A Fireplace Makeover!

I've dreamed of having a massive-brick fireplace, with a chunky wood mantel, ever since I was just a little girl.  Okay, maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration.  Back then, the only dreams I probably had were about a brand new Barbie doll, or a REAL horse!!!  But you get the picture, right?

I mean really- what could be more romantic (or cozy), than a roaring fire on a cold fall/winter night?