Saltwater Sounds: August Arrives With Blooms and Boat Plans
Welcome To This Week’s Saltwater Sounds…
A collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. Here, I share everything happening in the world of Shiplap and Shells, what to look forward to on the blog, and the inspiration I’ve found throughout the week.
Hi friends, and happy first week of August! Can you believe we’re already here?
Let me start by saying that this past week did not go as planned. I came down with the flu and spent several days doing absolutely nothing but recovering in bed. No packing the boat, no garden walks, no prepping for fall. Just lots of tea, tissues, and rest.
But by the end of the week, I was finally feeling a little more like myself. I took a walk through the garden before we left for our summer boat trip and wow—what a difference a week makes! When you’re used to strolling through your garden every day, even a short break can make everything feel brand new (and in some cases, a little out of control).
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A Garden That Didn’t Wait for Me
The flowers didn’t miss me one bit.
Here are the newest flower additions to the cottage garden…Rudbeckia Cappuccino.
I planted them in front of the cherry-red marigolds in a raised bed next to the greenhouse, both seeds from Epic Gardening.
The garden fairy sprites are watching over the summer flowers.
The Ballerina Zinnias are the prettiest color. I’ll plant a lot more of these next year!
The artichoke plants are officially showing off—actual artichokes!
The pole beans are thriving (we even brought some with us for the trip)
As for the veggies that aren’t exactly wowing anyone right now:
Not going to lie, I spotted a few pests and some powdery mildew issues, mostly because I wasn’t keeping up with things like I normally do. And let’s just say the garden could’ve used a good deadheading session before we left.
“A garden is always a series of losses set against a few triumphs, like life itself.” – May Sarton
There are still a few new dahlia tubers I planted this year that haven’t quite joined the party yet. I’m sad to miss their first flowers while we’re away, but I’m hoping our house sitter will send some garden updates while we’re gone!
No Fall Cottage Decor… Yet
One of the things I wanted to do before we left was decorate the house for fall. I had every intention of setting things up so it would feel cozy and seasonal the moment we returned from the boat. But after being down for the count all week, it just didn’t happen.
If you’re in that “should I start thinking about fall yet?” kind of mood, you’re in good company. This is the time of year when we “content creators” start sharing fall decor, cozy garden updates, and seasonal prep posts.
But don’t worry—I’m not rushing you!
Whether you’re so ready for fall or still savoring every drop of summer sunshine, I’ve got you! I’ll be sharing a mix in every week’s blog roundup starting next week.
Click on the fall posts if you’re in the mood, or scroll past and stay in summer mode in your Saltwater Sounds weekly post (or do both—double the fun)!
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Boat Life Begins
We officially left on our summer boating trip, and I’m so excited to share the journey with you. First up:
We’ve got the e-bikes charged and are planning to explore all the hidden gems the city of Vancouver has to offer. I’ll be taking plenty of photos along the way and sharing updates in next week’s Saltwater Sounds.
On the Blog
An Enchanted Evening Summer Stroll Through the Cottage Garden
Late August might be hot and dry, but the garden sure doesn’t seem to mind. The flowers are in full bloom, the tomatoes won’t stop coming, and somehow everything looks a little more magical in that late summer light…CONTINUE READING.
European Architectural Antique and Vintage Doors & Gates
Do you love old doors and gates? If the answer is yes and you’re ready for some serious inspiration, check out these antique and vintage doors and gates I found while vacationing in Europe…CONTINUE READING.
My Late Summer Flowers Blooming in the Cottage Garden
Have you enjoyed your summer garden this year? I know I have! Come explore the vibrant late summer flowers in my cottage garden, from the bright black-eyed Susans to the stunning dahlias. And there’s still so much to enjoy…CONTINUE READING.
Garden Supplies and Tools
Check out my favorite garden supplies and tools for the growing season. Whether you’re looking for potting soil or deer repellent, you’ll find what I use in my own garden.
My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week
This gorgeous Redwood City house is full of inspiration.
How to make apple butter from applesauce in a crockpot.
Your guide to throwing the ultimate potluck party
This BLT Caesar pasta salad looks amazing!
Check out this award-winning Ancient Modern home, featuring Carpenter Gothic handcrafted influence.
This homeowner is embracing charming coastal New England style.
And how about some vintage coastal decor ideas with a New England-inspired touch?
This homemade herb butter is the perfect accompaniment to rolls, bread, and even your favorite chicken dish.
Wherever you are this week, whether you’re knee-deep in tomatoes or dreaming of cozy fall candles, I hope you’re finding time to soak in the season.
See you next Sunday!
Until next time,
Wishing a wonderful week ahead,
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Kim, SO glad you are feeling better. Your garden…I am speechless. I am coming to visit one of these summers. You MUST go to Granville Island and go to the public market….oh my. So worth the short and inexpensive boat ride over. We were just there and my entire family loved it. The absolute best chocolate I’ve ever had is there and almost too beautiful to eat. Safe travels and I am so envious. Can’t wait to hear all the details.
Thanks Mary! We did stop at Granville and enjoyed it so much! We actually rode our bikes there and it made it even more fun! Did you visit the broom shop? I would love for you to come up one summer. We would have so much fun!