Saltwater Sounds: Cozy Hearts and Christmas Beginnings

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.

This and That

November has arrived with its cozy charm—shorter days, warm drinks, and that irresistible pull to nest inside.
Can you believe Thanksgiving is just 18 days away?

This season always brings a mix of emotions for me. When my daughter Katie was with us, we hosted Thanksgiving at our home every year. Since her passing seven years ago, we’ve found new traditions and shared the day with dear friends who feel like family.

pumpkin pies

Are you hosting this year? Or maybe you’re looking forward to being the lucky guest who just brings dessert (my dream job)?

As for me, I’m all about the stuffing… and of course, mashed potatoes. If you’ve read my “About Me” page, you know I have a deep and loyal love for anything involving potatoes.

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Easing Into the Holidays

the mess when decorating for Christmas
I’m not the cleanest decorator!

Some people like to savor every last bit of fall before switching gears—but as a blogger, I’ve learned that Christmas has a way of sneaking in early. It’s part of the fun!

This year, I’ve already started slowly decorating—first, the trees and garlands—to set the festive mood.

I’m trying something different with the living room this season: a moody, vintage-inspired color palette with deep browns, blacks, olives, navy, and burgundy mixed with cream accents.

Of course, there’ll be plenty of greenery and my favorite vintage treasures to pull it all together.

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough“.
Aesop

Holiday Shopping in Poulsbo

Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations

I took a little holiday shopping trip to Poulsbo last week and found so much inspiration! My three favorite shops are Red Plantation, Details Home and Garden, and Rust and Relic Vintage.

And I took a ton of pictures for you to see what they have in their shops.

Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations

Red Plantation – always a favorite for mixing old and new finds. I picked up my ribbon, ornaments, and a few surprises.

Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations

There are many different vendor booths, so you’ll find a variety of styles to choose from.

Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations
Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations
Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations
Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations
Red Plantation store selling Christmas decorations


Rust and Relic Vintage store selling Christmas decorations

Rust & Relic Vintage – vintage heaven, with so many pieces that made me wish I had more room in my home.

Rust and Relic Vintage store selling Christmas decorations
Rust and Relic Vintage store selling Christmas decorations


Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations

Details Home & Garden – the store that always gives me my Christmas tree inspiration. The themed trees this year were incredible.

Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations

It’s hard to see, but this tree covered with birdhouses is sitting in an old wheelbarrow.

Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations
Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations
Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations
Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations
Details Home and Garden store selling Christmas decorations

On the Blog

kitchen vignette with vintage Christmas decor

The holiday hustle is real, which is exactly why Christmas vignettes are one of my favorite ways to decorate—quick, easy, and full of charm. Between decking the halls, baking all the cookies, and hunting for that one missing gift (that you definitely bought…), who has time for over-the-top decorating? I know I don’t!…CONTINUE READING.

red tablescape for Christmas

Did you know you can create a cozy and festive atmosphere without breaking the bank? In this blog post, I’ll share some budget-friendly Christmas decorating ideas to help you transform your home into a winter wonderland…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

The furnishings and accessories added to this home on Oak Hill Drive create a charming space that feels like the setting of a Nancy Meyers film.

This salted bourbon pecan pumpkin pie looks absolutely delicious!

Make a faux tree smell real with these DIY Christmas tree scent sticks.

Here’s a beautiful Thanksgiving table centerpiece idea.

27 Fun Ideas for Hosting Thanksgiving.

How to make a faux vintage aluminum Christmas tree.

Set a heartwarming Thanksgiving table with neutral colors and natural elements.

The ultimate guide to hosting a Thanksgiving pie party.

Check out this luxurious Archipelago villa in Sweden.

How To Tie a Christmas Bow.

Looking Ahead

black dog sitting in the garden bed
I couldn’t resist sharing this picture of Jax laying in the garden beds while I was working in the yard last week.

Next week, I’ll show how I’ve started decorating with all these finds and give you a peek at the living room and kitchen as they begin to take on their festive glow.

Whether you’re still soaking up fall or already dreaming of twinkle lights and garlands, I hope this season brings you warmth, comfort, and a little creative spark.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

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