Saltwater Sounds: Savoring the Seasonal Transition from Spooky to Snug

Welcome to Saltwater Sounds, a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. Here, I share everything happening in the world of Shiplap and Shells, what’s to come, and the inspiration I’ve found from other bloggers around the web.

This and That

As we bid October goodbye, I’m feeling a cozy energy this week. This final stretch of the month brings with it all those classic seasonal shifts, from spooky to snug.

Whether you’re tucking your garden in for a well-deserved rest, adjusting to cooler days, or just embracing those ever-shortening afternoons, this week is all about savoring the seasonal transition.

Grab your favorite blanket and a cup of something warm, and let’s dive into the coziest time of the year together!

Knee Replacement Update: Slow and Steady

One week down, and my recovery from the knee replacement surgery is coming along slowly but steadily.

This recovery feels much better than the last one, and for that, I’m grateful. There is less swelling, more range of motion, and more sleep. My first post-op appointment is scheduled for Tuesday.

I’ve had plenty of time to reflect on the importance of taking it easy, something I’m not always great at. This process is teaching me patience and allowing me to appreciate the quieter moments of the season.

Physical therapy is my least favorite part of this process, but it is also the most important. The good news is that I know what to expect this time, and because of that, I’m working harder at home.

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. My blog also contains other affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Bringing the Outside In: Cozy Decor Ideas

Since I can’t spend much time outdoors right now, I’m focusing on bringing the season inside.

Fall is one of my favorite times to decorate with natural elements like pumpkins, pinecones, and dried flowers. There’s something so comforting about cozying up your home as the days get shorter.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy DIY, consider creating a dried flower arrangement using some of the last blooms from your garden or even a bundle of store-bought flowers.

I also love the warm glow of candles and string lights as the evenings get darker earlier. Adding soft lighting can create a welcoming, comforting space to hunker down in during these cooler months.

Seattle’s Transition to November: Cooler and Rainier

As we near the end of October, the Seattle area is continuing to cool down, and we’re getting more of that iconic Pacific Northwest rain. The weather has shifted from the crisp 50s to the rain-soaked days that define our fall.

I know it can be tough to get used to the damp chill in the air, but I always remind myself that this rain is a blessing for our gardens.

It helps nourish the soil and prepare everything for winter dormancy. So, while I may be cozy inside, I’m grateful for all the rain that’s giving my garden a good soak!

Prepping the Garden for Winter

The garden may be winding down, but there’s still some work to prepare it for winter. With cooler temperatures and more rain on the way, it’s the perfect time to continue mulching those fallen leaves.

I’m a big fan of using them to cover my garden beds and protect the soil from harsh winter weather.

Don’t forget to tidy up any perennials and remove spent annuals. This gives the garden a fresh start for the next growing season, preventing pests and diseases from overwintering.

For those still up and moving (lucky you), now is also a great time to plant spring-blooming bulbs. You’ll thank yourself in a few months when those tulips and daffodils start popping up!

The pile of spring bulbs shown above was purchased at Christianson’s Nursery while on our boat trip. Here is a list of what I’m growing in pots and containers next spring:

As far as the cut flower garden raised beds are concerned, I have always bought Longfield Gardens Tulip Collections from Costco. Unfortunately, the tulips were completely sold out in-store by the time we returned from our five-week boat trip.

Just last week, I took a chance to see that the spring bulbs were still available online. It paid off big time!

The Longfield Gardens Tulip Collections (150-count which bloom mid-spring) were offered at $64.99 each. The good news is that I bought all three color combinations offered: Classic, Pink and Purple, and Brilliant for the raised beds.

The less-than-great news is that if you’re thinking of getting some at this point, the pink and purple mix is the only combination left.

“Autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” — Unknown

Happy Birthday Katie

Happy heavenly birthday to my daughter, Katie, who would have been 33 tomorrow. I love you Katie bug.

In My Cart What I Bought: My Favorites This Week

It’s Candle Season – Everything is On Sale!

Use code “OCTOBER20” for 20% off the entire website (except the Tree Farm Collection, which is still 30% off!).

It is also the official last call for the Pumpkin Project Candles and the Glass Pumpkin Candles! These limited-edition scents and vessels will be removed from the website at the end of the month. They are heavily discounted, and code”OCTOBER20″ can stacked on top of them!

Code “OCTOBER20” will also work the Antique Candle Co. sale page, making candles as low as $25.84!

From the Blog

Inviting Fall Front Porch Decorating Ideas for the Season

Are you looking for front porch decorating ideas for fall that will instantly welcome your visitors? I’ll share a variety of ways you can transform your porch into a festive and inviting space this autumn season… CONTINUE READING.

10 Fall Table Decoration Ideas and Inspiration to Wow Your Guests

Looking for creative ideas for an autumn tablescape? I’m sharing ten fabulous fall table decoration ideas and inspiration that will surely wow your guests… CONTINUE READING.

How to Create Christmas Holiday Vignettes in as Little as 5 Minutes

The Christmas holiday season can be a hectic time of year with so much to do. Whether your tasks include shopping, baking, home decorating, or coordinating holiday events, wouldn’t it be nice to free up some time? This post includes easy ideas for creating Christmas holiday vignettes in 5 minutes or less…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

I’m in SO IN LOVE with this country home.

You have to try this delicious cross between a soft, chewy maple cookie and a steaming chai latte made with real espresso. 

You won’t want to miss these amazing vintage Thanksgiving decor ideas.

Calling all flower lovers to see Frances Palmer’s life in the studio.

The art of making a cozy fall simmer pot.

Here are some corn husk crafts and corn stalk fall decor DIY ideas for the season.

If you don’t already know how to clean your copper, this is a great time of year to learn.

I’d love to hear from you! Please leave a comment and let me know what you’d like to see on the blog. Thank you for being here.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

Follow Me for More Inspiration

Shop my Amazon Storefront, LTK sources, and favorite home decor, garden, and lifestyle products. When you purchase from one of my links, I earn a small commission, which helps me continue sharing all the content you expect on my blog.

Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LIKEtoKNOW.it. Do you like gardening? Join my Facebook Gardening Tips & Tricks group.