Saltwater Sounds: January’s Frosty Finish and Garden Beginnings

Welcome to Saltwater Sounds, a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. This is where I share everything happening in the world of Shiplap and Shells, what’s to come, and the inspiration I’ve found from other bloggers around the web.

We are just about done with January, and I’m perfectly ok with that.

This year, I’ve been looking at the month as half full instead of half frozen, and honestly, it’s done wonders for my attitude about winter.

As a gardener, January (and February, if I’m being honest) has always been a bit of a struggle for me. The cold weather and the dormant gardens can feel like they stretch on forever.

But I’ve come to appreciate that this time of year has its perks. It’s the perfect season for catching up on those indoor projects I’ve been putting off, diving into garden planning, and savoring a slower pace before spring kicks everything into high gear.

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Speaking of spring, I can’t help but feel a twinge of excitement knowing we’re officially one month closer. It’s like the light at the end of the winter tunnel is finally starting to peek through.

January might be winding down, but there’s still plenty of time to embrace winter’s slower pace. Whether it’s curling up with a good gardening book, trying a new recipe, or simply enjoying the beauty of frosty mornings, this season has its own kind of charm.

What have you been up to this week? Are you sowing any seeds or diving into garden planning yet? I’d love to hear about your winter projects or dreams for the spring garden.

This and That

Flowers for That Much-Needed Pop of Color

Ready for a little flower tease? Tulips, primroses, and pansies are for sale at our Gig Harbor Metropolitan Market.

I challenge anyone to walk by these bright and beautiful flowers and not take any home with you! I’m addicted to vibrant blooms no matter the time of year.

A friend brought me a bouquet of gorgeous lilies and yellow tulips.

And, of course, I’m still force-blooming forsythia branches. Here’s a great before and after picture for you.

30-Year Hockey Anniversary

We went to a Seattle Kraken hockey game the other night with friends. The last time I went to a Seattle hockey game was 30 years ago, and the team was the Thunderbirds.

I will say that I felt my age. It was a lot of fun, but the lights and the constant noise were a bit overstimulating! I don’t think I was thinking that thirty years ago.

Seattle played the LA Kings and won 3-2!

Sowing Sweet Pea Seeds Indoors

I’ll be sowing sweet pea seeds in the greenhouse today. It’s one of those small gardening tasks that reminds me spring isn’t as far away as it feels on these freezing mornings.

I can’t recommend it enough if you haven’t tried growing sweet peas yet! They’re fragrant, colorful, and so easy to grow.

Vegetables and More Flowers to Grow in the Garden

Did you read my new blog post, ‘Creating a Cut Flower Garden: Summer Seed Collection,’ to see which cut flowers I’m growing this year?

As promised, here’s the list of veggies I’ll be growing in the garden for 2025…

I’m also growing four varieties of pumpkins…

A Few Highlights from the Week

While it’s too chilly to do much outside, I’ve enjoyed making my final seed purchases, dreaming up ideas for new flower beds, and making lists of what needs to be done when the ground thaws.

From the Blog

Essential Elements for a Cottagecore Style Kitchen

Cottagecore kitchen decor is a design trend that focuses on a simpler life and loving the home you create. If you’re looking for decorating ideas to add rustic charm, mixing in timeless touches, and embracing natural elements, you’re in the right place… CONTINUE READING.

How to Plan a Stunning Cut Flower Garden Layout

Dreaming of a gorgeous cut flower garden but unsure where to begin? In this post, I’ll guide you through every step of planning a cut flower garden layout, from choosing the best flowers to grow and caring for them so you can enjoy a garden bursting with blooms…CONTINUE READING.

19 Gardening Goals: Garden Resolutions for 2025

This is a great time to start thinking about new gardening goals for the coming year. After contemplating the wins and challenges from last year, I’ve compiled a list of gardening resolutions for 2025 that I’m ready to tackle…CONTINUE READING.

Easy Valentine’s Day Glass Cloche Home Decor Ideas 

Looking for some fresh Valentine’s Day decor ideas? I’ve got you covered! Let’s talk about cloches—those charming glass domes that can turn just about anything into an elegant display…CONTINUE READING.

Gardening Made Simple – Your Guide to Beginning Gardening

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

You’ll love this incredible cottage house tour in Bainbridge.

You’ll want to make this rustic dried flower wreath or this DIY heart moss wreath for Valentine’s Day!

This easy-to-make, gluten-free winter cake will melt in your mouth.

After reading this blog, I want to try painting my interior vinyl windows.

You’re going to love this Havencrest remodel.

Need ideas for hosting a unique kind of Galentine’s Day party?

Secrets to hosting an unforgettable watch party for the big game.

This botanical dreamer takes petals from one flower and combines them with the stems of another.

Check out this yummy Valentine’s Day recipe.

I was over the moon inspired by the prettiest Valentine’s Day cupcakes.

Here are some tips on planning and styling a small walk-in closet.

This DIY floral ice bucket will be the hit of your next party.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and let me know what you’d like to see on the blog! Thank you for being here.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

Gardening Made Simple – Your Guide to Growing a Cut Flower Garden

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