This and That

What a week it’s been!

We’ve had that classic Pacific Northwest mix of heavy rain and strong winds — the kind of weather that makes you want to stay inside with a mug of hot cocoa and a good book.

In some areas, the rain has brought flooding and difficult conditions, and while our hearts are with those affected, we’re very grateful to be safe and dry here at home.

We did catch a brief break in the weather for a couple of days, just long enough to enjoy some time outside, but the rain will settle back in for the week ahead.

And tell me — am I the only one who feels like December is already a blur? We’re just eleven days away from Christmas, and it’s full-on holiday mode around here.

Last week was all about Christmas shopping, and this week it’s been holiday parades. We spent a few days on the boat and watched the Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade from the public dock — one of our favorite traditions.

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The Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade

The Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade is one of those traditions we look forward to all year long. It takes place on the second weekend of December, and for the past several years, we’ve watched from the public dock—our favorite little viewing spot.

We don’t join the parade itself, but honestly, sitting on the dock and taking it all in feels just as magical.

The boats were absolutely decked out this year. People truly go all out—twinkle lights, inflatables, themed displays… the whole festive spectrum. It’s such a charming event and feels like the entire harbor comes alive.

A couple of years ago, I even hosted a little parade party aboard Wildflower and put together a few Christmas-themed charcuterie boards—complete with lamb meatballs. It was such a fun (and delicious!) way to kick off the night.

Jax and Ollie were great sports (as always) and even paused long enough for a photo.

And of course, we had to snap a picture of the Downtown Gig Harbor Christmas tree. The camera never quite captures how stunning it is in person, especially with the lights shimmering in the water. The reflection alone was worth the chilly evening.

Favorite Holiday Moments

Since this is my last Saltwater Sounds until January, I thought it would be fun to share a few of my favorite holiday memories — the little traditions and moments that make this season feel extra magical.

Snowflake Lane – Bellevue, WA

If you’ve never been to Snowflake Lane, picture this: twinkling lights, festive music echoing down the street, dancing drummers, and crowds bundled up with hot cocoa in hand.

It’s one of my favorite ways to soak in the holiday spirit, and every year it feels just as magical as the first.

The Lighted Car Parade On Our Street

Every year, the Saturday before Christmas, a line of festively decorated cars winds down our street — horns honking, lights flashing, kids waving out the windows.

Even though we don’t get trick-or-treaters on Halloween, this parade more than makes up for it. It’s such a charming community moment, and I look forward to it every year.

We always try to make our little viewing spot on the deck feel festive — plenty of cozy snacks, warm drinks, and of course, a fire to keep the December chill at bay.

One of the perks of having an ironwood dock is that we can safely set up the firepit right on top of it, which makes the whole evening feel even more magical.

A Christmas Snowfall (and My Beloved Greenhouse)

Then there was the year we woke up to a blanket of snow — the rare kind that turns the entire garden into a winter wonderland.

Even the greenhouse looked straight out of a Christmas card. I took about a thousand photos that day, and I’m so glad I did. Snowfalls like this do not happen often in the Seattle area.

The Christmas Eve We Brought Home Ollie

And of course… one of my sweetest holiday memories ever: the Christmas Eve we brought home Ollie five years ago.

He was tiny, wiggly, and instantly a part of the family. Every year when Christmas comes around, I can’t help but think of that cozy night we first held him.

“It’s not how much you give but how much love we put into giving.” – Mother Teresa

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

Closing Thoughts

As we wrap up this year together, I want to say thank you for being here — for reading, for cheering me on, and for sharing your own stories with me. This community truly means the world.

I’m signing off for the rest of December so I can be fully present during the holidays. I’m looking forward to slow mornings, cozy evenings, and soaking in every twinkly moment.

I’ll see you in January as we ease into a fresh new year — seed-starting in the greenhouse, taking down the holiday decor, giving the cottage a deep clean, and bringing out the winter touches.

Wishing you the happiest, warmest, and most meaningful holiday season.
See you in 2026, friend. 🎄✨

Until next time,