Saltwater Sounds: Mother’s Day Memories and a Bit of Salt Air

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.

Hi friends…

I hope this week has been kind to you.

May always feels like such a hopeful month, filled with fresh blooms, longer days, and so many ways to connect with the season.

Today also happens to be Mother’s Day, and I want to take a moment to reflect and send love to each and every one of you.

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Mother’s Day Reflection

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms out there.

Today, I celebrate you—your love, strength, and the countless ways you care for others, whether you’re raising little ones, supporting grown children, or nurturing your home.

I hope you feel deeply appreciated and loved today.

I also want to take a moment for those of us who approach this day with a tender heart.

If you’ve lost a mother, a child, or hoped for motherhood but are on a different path, please know that you’re not alone. I see you, and I’m sending so much love your way.

This day is always a personal one for me.

I lost my daughter Katie almost seven years ago, and my mom almost three.

Now on Mother’s Day, I spend time in the garden or near the water—places that feel closest to them. I plant something in their memory, replay favorite moments, and give myself the gift of grace.

Whatever today looks like for you—celebratory or quiet, joyful or bittersweet—I hope it brings a sense of peace and love.

Around the Garden

My alliums are back! I love the pop of purple these fun flowers bring to the garden.

The garden is coming alive more and more each day.

We’re slowly making progress planting the flower containers, and the beds are filling in with green growth.

The seedlings are still adjusting to the warmer temperatures, but I’m doing my best to keep them hydrated and shaded when needed. It’s always a bit of a balancing act this time of year, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

And the greenhouse is EMPTY!

“Spring: a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be.” ― Unknown

On the Water – Gig Harbor Boat Tour

This week brought a few boating adventures that felt like a breath of fresh air.

I had so much fun hopping aboard my friend Ramona’s brand-new boat for a scenic tour around Gig Harbor. It was such a fun way to see the area from a different perspective and enjoy the company of good friends.

Captain Ramona is the owner of Sound Boat Tours and Charters in Gig Harbor.

The weather was amazing!

I always love going under the Tacoma Narrows Bridge!

There’s just something about spending time on the water that resets everything.

A Short Boat Trip

My hubby, the boys, and I took a little trip over to Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island, two of our favorite close-by getaways.

We grabbed lunch at a spot overlooking the harbor, then went for a walk with the boys along Fjord Dr. NE, where I always love all the incredible front yard gardens.

Spring is such a magical time there, with rhododendrons, azaleas, and peonies putting on a gorgeous show. I never get tired of it.

Shopping in Poulsbo

Of course, no trip to Poulsbo is complete without a little shopping!

We made our first stop at Details Home and Garden, which was full of inspiration. Do you see a theme here?

The shop was filled with both real and faux flowers and plants, and garden accents around every corner.

While there weren’t quite as many vintage pieces as I’ve seen there in the past, I heard that their new Bainbridge Island location has more of that vintage charm I love, so we’re planning to check it out today. I’ll take some photos and share more in next week’s post.

Next was Rust & Relic Vintage.

This location used to be home to Saltwater Antiques, my favorite vintage shop. Amy retired, and now the shop has new owners.

Luckily, Amy still has a section in the Poulsbo store featuring her thrifted treasures, so I still got to browse through some of her finds.

And of course, no shopping trip would be complete without a stop at Red Plantation, a longtime favorite.

On the Blog

How to Grow a Flower Container Garden for Beginners

Are you new to gardening and want to start slow? Do you only have a small garden area to work with? If so, flower container gardening is a great option. I’ll share my tips and tricks on how to grow and care for a beautiful flower container garden…CONTINUE READING.

25 Best Perennial Plants For a Low-Maintenance Flower Garden

Do you love growing a flower garden but are overwhelmed by all the work it takes to maintain and care for it? Today, I’m sharing my favorite perennial plant options to create the low-maintenance garden you’ve always dreamed of…CONTINUE READING.

Ultimate Guide to Grow and Care for Hydrangeas for Beginners

Hydrangeas are stunning flowering plants that add a touch of old-fashioned elegance to any garden. If you’re a beginner gardener who wants to grow hydrangeas in your own garden, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the necessary information you need to successfully grow and care for hydrangeas…CONTINUE READING.

Small Space, Big Impact: Our Kitchen’s Stunning Before and After

Do you love before-and-after stories as much as I do? Follow along as I reveal the before and after of a 100+-year-old kitchen that has not just been renovated, but reborn. You’ll see the results of a labor of love that spanned almost eight years…CONTINUE READING.

Mother’s Day Inspiration in the Cottage Garden

Are you looking for some gardening inspiration for Mother’s Day? I’ll take you on a tour to see what’s blooming in my cottage garden, share some ideas on how to make Mother’s Day even more special with flowers and plants, and show you some great garden-inspired gift options I found this year…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

You’ll love this gorgeous coastal masterpiece.

And this lovely sage kitchen.

If you’re looking for a new breakfast recipe, check out this strata cup.

Here’s how to make lavender sachets.

There’s something about this basket flower arrangement that brightens up any space.

If you love the vintage feel of old feed sack fabrics, here’s an easy way to make your vintage-like material out of a drop cloth. 

This is such a delicious Caprese Caesar Pasta Salad recipe!

Some simple ways to live a luxurious life.

This beautiful lakeside home in Sweden will give you plenty of inspiration.

Create a beautiful garden party tablescape for summer.

Here’s a beach house remodel you won’t want to miss!

Learn how to decorate a kitchen hutch with these 10 cozy styling tips.

Looking Ahead

As we move deeper into May, I’ll continue with container planting and watch as the garden continues to change.

Thank you, as always, for being part of this little community. I’m so grateful to share these moments and reflections with you each week.

Wishing you a beautiful week ahead.

Until next time,

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