Can you believe the 4th of July is just around the corner?

This year, we’re celebrating from the water, which is a first for us. Thirteen years of hosting our parade party at the cottage, and this summer we’re trading it for a different kind of adventure.

I’ll be honest, I’m a little nostalgic about it. But the trip we’re on right now is making it very easy to feel good about the decision.

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The Next Adventure

Garrison Bay

We made our way to Garrison Bay, tucked in close to Roche Harbor, and anchored for a few days.

It’s a quieter spot and exactly what we’ve been waiting for.

We kayaked.

We hiked at English Camp with Jax and Ollie.

They have the best trails for the boys.

Here’s a view of our boat, Wildflower, from the trail.

There’s so much history here.

There’s even a garden with a white picket fence border.

Lavender, delphinium, yarrow, coreopsis, and peonies grow in the beds surrounded by boxwood hedges.

And we dinghied over to Westcott Bay Shellfish Co. for oysters and what I can only describe as the best grilled oysters I’ve ever eaten.

Here’s the outdoor seating area, and where they barbecue the oysters.

I’m not an oyster person AT ALL. But these have changed my mind.

The weather was absolutely gorgeous.

Roche Harbor

From Garrison Bay, it was a short trip to Roche Harbor for a day of all the things we love about this place.

We spent some time walking through the garden.

The fuchsia rose bush is growing over the arched path.

Check out these artichokes.

Next up… home decor shopping at Dominique’s House.

And then the sculpture park, which is a favorite for the dogs since they can explore off-leash. I had to kiss the frog.

Ollie had to take a rest after his walk.

I don’t remember seeing this sweet miniature village the last time we were here.

We also walked to the Mausoleum.

Roche Harbor has a way of feeling both lively and unhurried at the same time, which is a rare combination.

We always love our time there.

Before we headed north, we made one more stop at the resort for donuts.

To see more about our Roche Harbor Resort visits by boat, you can visit my blog post.

Back Home: The Garden

While we’re out here on the water, home is celebrating without us.

Our housesitter has been sending photos of the garden and the cottage, and I love seeing it all dressed up for the holiday, even while we’re away.

The eyeliner lilies are so gorgeous. Can you see the brown dots on the petals? To me, this flower is as close to perfection as you can get.

The dark purple sweet peas are gorgeous.

Those coneflowers are just about ready for summer.

The loosestrife is in full bloom.

The hydrangeas are getting more and more colorful.

I love the Veronica…more than I thought I would. It’s so easy to grow and looks great in a cottage garden.

This Week from Years Past: The Party We Love

The 4th of July always looks good at the beach cottage. The flowers are fuller, the bay is full of boats and kayaks, and the neighborhood puts on quite a show.

For thirteen years, the 4th of July meant one thing at our house… the parade party.

Neighbors, friends, flowers everywhere, the parade going right past our little beach cottage on the bay. It’s one of my favorite days of the entire year and one of those traditions that feels like it’s just always been there.

This is the first summer we’ve missed it, and looking back at photos from past years makes me a little sentimental. The decorated tables, the red, white, and blue, and the garden looked absolutely beautiful.

We’ll be back next year, and I have a feeling we’ll appreciate it even more for having missed it once.

On the Blog This Week

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

Here’s the most beautiful kiwi cheesecake I have ever seen. It may be the zinnias on top!

You’ll love this dream stone house set in the lavender fields of the Luberon in France.

Tips that will help you easily clean and sharpen your pruning shears.

Check out these easy and healthy summer recipes for outdoor gatherings.

The Life Styled Co has this gorgeous home in its portfolio that you won’t want to miss.

These flower arrangements are stunning.

This citrus-and-mint ice block beverage cooler is a refreshing addition to any summertime party.

This home is inspired by the sun, sand and sea. 

Looking Ahead

We’re still out here, still exploring and finding new favorite things around every corner. More to come next week from further up the coast.

Happy 4th of July, friends. However you’re spending it, I hope it’s a good one.

Until next time,