Saltwater Sounds: Hints of Spring in the Grip of Winter
Welcome to this week’s edition of 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.
Happy Sunday!
This past week felt like a blend of seasons—winter holding on with frigid temperatures and fresh snowfall, while the first hints of spring appeared in the greenhouse, where tiny seedlings began to grow.
Winter vs. Spring—That Awkward In-Between Time
That time of year has arrived—the awkward in-between when winter won’t quite let go, but spring is starting to tease us.
One day, the sun is shining, birds are singing, and you’re this close to grabbing your garden tools. The next, a cold snap reminds you that winter still has the upper hand.
It’s that weird phase where you don’t know whether to wear a sweater or a t-shirt, and your garden is just as confused—buds are starting to pop up, but the ground is still icy in the mornings.
It’s a waiting game, a test of patience, and honestly? Kind of a beautiful mess. The best part? Knowing spring is just around the corner, even if winter insists on a few more encores.
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How Was Your Valentine’s Day?
Whether you love it, hate it, or fall somewhere in between, Valentine’s Day always seems to spark conversation.
Some people go all out with romantic dinners, flowers, and sweet gestures, while others treat it like any other day.
And then there’s Galentine’s Day—one of the best things to come from this holiday! There’s something so fun about celebrating friendships, whether it’s a cozy brunch, a night in with movies, or just a good excuse to send a thoughtful message to a friend.
Speaking of Galentines, I spent last Wednesday night celebrating at one of my favorite local stores, Harbornest, located in downtown Gig Harbor.
Amy hosted yet another fun holiday event at her store.
This Galentines night was the perfect time to sip and shop with friends.
Her outdoor containers were filled with primroses, tulips, and other spring bulbs- the perfect welcome to her boutique!
Among the Flowers: Garden & Greenhouse Updates
The garden is still sleepy, but things are starting to stir behind the scenes!
This week, I’ve been organizing my seeds and finalizing my seed-sowing schedule and where all the seedlings will grow in the garden.
If you haven’t started them yet, now’s a great time to get your seeds going indoors for a head start!
Other Garden Tasks for This Time of Year
What’s on your gardening to-do list this month?
“In February, nature reminds us that even in the coldest moments, beauty can still flourish.” — Gabriela Alemán
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.
A Peek Inside the Cottage
A Little Spring Indoors: Beating the Winter Blues with Fresh Flowers
Winter has its cozy moments—crackling fires, warm cups of tea, and soft blankets wrapped around our shoulders. But let’s be honest, by this time of year, we’re all craving a little life and color.
One of my favorite ways to chase away those winter blues is by bringing fresh flowers into my home. There’s just something about seeing a vase of delicate blooms on the kitchen counter or a little bundle of ranunculus on the nightstand that makes everything feel lighter, fresher, and happier.
The Power of Flowers in Winter
Instant Mood Booster – Studies have shown that flowers can lift our spirits and reduce stress. But even without the science, don’t you just feel happier when you walk into a room and see fresh flowers smiling back at you?
A Tiny Taste of Spring – When the garden is still resting, a simple bouquet can remind us that spring is coming. Tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bring that fresh, hopeful feeling indoors.
Effortless Decor Refresh – Flowers instantly soften a space, adding warmth and charm. Whether you tuck a few stems into a vintage pitcher or let a bunch of wildflowers spill from a glass jar, they make any room feel more inviting.
My Favorite Flowers to Brighten Up Winter
If you’re looking to add a little flower love to your home, here are some of my favorite picks this time of year:
Simple Ways to Style Flowers in Your Home
💬 What are your favorite flowers to bring into your home during winter? Do you have a go-to way to style them? I’d love to hear in the comments!
On the Blog
How I Repurposed and Reinvented My Thrift Store and Flea Market Finds
What if I told you that you don’t have to spend a fortune to refresh your home decor? Some of my home’s most unique and charming pieces started as simple thrift store or flea market finds, just waiting for a little creativity to bring them back to life…CONTINUE READING.
Cut Flower Garden Dos and Don’ts for Beginners
Have you ever dreamed of growing a beautiful cutting garden but aren’t quite sure where to start? Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a smoother experience, these cut flower garden ‘dos and don’ts’ will help you avoid common mistakes and set you up for success… CONTINUE READING.
Create a Healthy Garden: Your Guide to Flower Companion Planting
Are you ready to take your garden to the next level with the beauty and benefits of flower companion planting? Companion planting is a great way to improve your garden’s overall health and vibrancy while creating a pretty outdoor gardening space…CONTINUE READING.
How to Bring Life into Your Garden With Winter Blooming Plants and Flowers
Are you looking for ways to brighten your dreary outdoor spaces this time of year? I’ll share eight blooming plants and flowers you can grow in cold weather that will bring life back into your winter flower garden… CONTINUE READING.
Grow Your Dream Garden: A Beginner’s Guide to Flower Gardening
Do you dream of having your own flower garden but feel overwhelmed by the thought of starting one? This guide to flower gardening for beginners will show you everything you need to start a garden and how to maintain it to get the best results…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
The President’s Day Sales are Here!
Antique Candle Co.
The 2025 spring candle collection has officially launched! Warm weather favorites are here and ready to fill your home with bright florals, cozy vanilla, and fruit. The collection includes:
Sweet Lemon | Fresh Cut Herbs | Blueberry Cobbler | Lavender Vanilla | Mixed Berry Crumble | Almond Vanilla
Use code KIM20 for 20% off your order!
‘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.
My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week
This garlic butter pasta alla vodka recipe looks amazing!
Check out this Cotswolds charm in a Brentwood home.
Learn how to make a fake cake with this tutorial.
This Spanish bungalow by the sea is the absolute cutest!
Your home will smell amazing with this simmer pot recipe for spring.
I’m loving these flower vase ideas on a budget.
Here’s how to make a fairy garden for your centerpiece.
You’re never going to believe how this decorative cabbage was made!
Check out this carpet stain remover.
What have you been working on this week? Are you tackling any winter projects, planning your spring garden, or just soaking up these last cozy weeks of the season? Let’s chat in the comments!
Until next time,
Wishing a wonderful week ahead,
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I absolutely love your greenhouse/shed! Can you provide more information about it? Did you build it from scratch, or was it ordered and assembled? What size is it? My apologies if you have covered this question in a previous post….I’m new to your website.. Love it! Very inspiring.
Hi Brenda! We had our contractor friend build our greenhouse for us. I gave him pictures from Pinterest of greenhouses I liked and a list of what I wanted to have and he created the structure for us. He didn’t even use any plans. The greenhouse is 8’x 10′. I have a blog post with more information you can find more info: https://shiplapandshells.com/all-about-my-greenhouse/
Let me know if you have any other questions.
Looks like you are going to be busy, busy, busy in the greenhouse! Save some time to cuddle up indoors under a warm blanket and enjoy those last winter scenes! The garden will be full of blooms before you know it!
I’m definitely saving time for cuddling up with Jax and Ollie! I’m looking forward to those spring blooms.