Saltwater Sounds: From Snowflakes to Game Day
Welcome to this week’s edition of Saltwater Sounds, a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. This is where 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.
What a week it’s been! There’s been no shortage of excitement from my trip to Dallas last weekend (including vintage decor shopping) to a Seattle snowfall.
And with the big game today and Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day just around the corner, February is off to a fun and festive start!
I have to know—are you looking forward to the big game itself, the commercials, or just the snacks? Are you a die-hard football fan or prefer to enjoy the party? I’m all about the party.
No matter how you spend the day, I hope it’s a great one! And if you’re looking ahead to Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day this Friday, now’s the perfect time to start planning something special—whether it’s a cozy night in, a fun gathering with friends, or just an excuse to indulge in a little extra chocolate. 🍫💖
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It’s still cold around here – REALLY cold. We got a little snow, but it didn’t stick around for long.
But it did last long enough to take a few pictures.
Jax and Ollie had the best time, as you can tell from all the paw tracks on the lawn.
Next week could get down to the low twenties, but by the middle of the month, we will start warming up again.
Now I’m even more ready for spring! And some color in the garden.
I mentioned my weekend trip to Dallas to meet with some blogging friends. On Saturday, we had lunch and checked out the cutest antique mall in historic downtown McKinney.
It always feels so good to see these friends! We learn so much from each other and share a lot of laughs.
Kari Anne Woods from Thistlewood Farms met us for lunch. For those of you who don’t know her, she is a blogger and an author. It was fun seeing her in person.
My friend Lycia from Caught by Design made coffee mugs for us!
For some reason, I hadn’t gone vintage shopping in quite a while, so I was more than ready to explore this antique mall.
The moment I walked in, I knew I would have been in heaven if this were a local shop—and if I had my car! The selection was incredible, with so many unique finds at reasonable prices.
After just a couple of booths, I realized I wouldn’t have time for my usual slow, aisle-by-aisle browsing.
Instead, I had to do a quick sweep, resisting the temptation to fall in love with treasures I couldn’t take home.
Note to self: I’m bringing an empty suitcase next time I visit my friend, Andrea!
“Where there is love there is life.” — Mahatma Gandhi
We went to dinner at Rise on Sunday. It was such a cute spot.
Rise is an intimate salon de soufflé and wine bar designed with French influence.
I had the Herb and Spicy Sausage souffle, but the Sun-dried Tomato & Pesto Chèvre was very popular at our table.
The kitchen staff was very friendly.
Among the Flowers: Garden & Greenhouse Updates
The garden has started waking up, and I am so happy! Spring-blooming bulbs, like crocuses and tulips, are already popping out of the ground.
The hellebores in the garden look gorgeous. I love this color.
I’m so ready to play in the dirt again, maybe in another week when the temperatures warm up. In the meantime, I love the time I spend in the greenhouse.
More on the seedling progress next week.
I wanted to share this picture of one of my evergreen ferns.
Do you see how brown many of the fronds are? I will cut my outdoor ferns back in just a few weeks so new fronds will grow back in their place.
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At the Cottage
Is it too soon for the spring bunnies to come out?
I’m getting ready to bring them out and bring a little spring into our lives indoors.
When do you start decorating for spring?
For me, it depends on my mood, and this year, my mood says, “Bring it on”!
On the Blog
Easy Cut Flowers to Grow Indoors from Seeds for Beginners
Are you considering growing a cut flower garden but want the process to be simple and fun? This guide will help you choose some of the easiest flowers to grow indoors from seed, giving you more time to enjoy your garden…CONTINUE READING.
How to Cut Back Outdoor Garden Evergreen Ferns
Are your outdoor ferns looking old and tired? Now is the time to refresh them so they look vibrant and healthy again. This post will guide you through the best practices for cutting back outdoor evergreen ferns just in time for the new gardening season…CONTINUE READING.
How to Mix Valentine’s Day into Your Winter Home Decor
Are you looking for ways to decorate your home for Valentine’s Day? Here are some ideas for adding a hint of Valentine’s inspiration sprinkled with your cozy winter home decor… CONTINUE READING.
How Long Old Seeds Last: Flower Seed Viability Chart
Are you unsure if your old flower seeds from last year can still be sown? If you’re wondering how long old seeds will last, this post will help determine flower seed viability…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.
Favorite Finds for the Week
This is the prettiest tulip iron wreath!
If you’re looking for a candle holder, you’ll love this one.
I’ve been looking for something to use when I harvest my flowers and I love this rattan gardening tray.
Here’s the perfect stoneware pitcher.
For Easter, I found the sweetest bunny book ends. And how about this doormat?
I’m getting this ceramic canister to store my doggie treats.
You’ve got to see which faux flowers are on the clearance sale at Afloral.
Seed Starting Supplies
Check out my favorite supplies and tools for starting seeds indoors. Whether you’re looking for grow lights or a seed starting mix, you’ll find what I use in my own greenhouse.
My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week
The lemon rose shortbread cookies are so pretty AND delicious for Valentine’s Day.
What do you think of this gorgeous home? I’m completely in love with this country lane farmhouse!
This coconut oil salt scrub would make the perfect Valentine’s Day gift! So would this rose petal bath soak and salt scrub.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free treat, try lemon drizzle cake.
Here are some easy ways to add a pop of color to your home decor.
Here’s how to make a fabulous flower arrangement in a basket.
‘Growing a Cut Flower Garden’ Series
Learn about the ins and outs of growing a cut flower garden this year. Click the button below to be taken to the entire series of blog posts and choose what is interesting to you.
Until next time,
Wishing a wonderful week ahead,
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Kim, I love that tulip iron wreath! And yes, we did have such fun in Dallas! Always love seeing you, my friend. Thank you for sharing my lemon rose shortbread cookie post~made another batch this week. Sending big hugs!
Hugs right back my friend! I knew you would love that tulip wreath as much as I do.
Glad you enjoyed the Dallas area… Rise is a favorite of mine… which one did you go to….? Teresa Person
It really was a lot of fun! If there is more than one Rise in Dallas then I’m not sure, but if there’s only one, then that’s the one we went to!