Saltwater Sounds: Prepping for Spring One Seed at a Time

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.

It may still be winter, but there are hints of spring everywhere!

This past week has been filled with seed sowing, more garden planning, and a little extra coziness indoors.

And while the gardening activities have kept me on my toes, I spent some much-needed quality time with our sweet pup Jax, who was recuperating.

Jax’s Dental Adventure

Our nine-year-old boy, Jax, had another dental procedure this past week, and unfortunately, he had to have 11 more teeth pulled. Poor little guy!

Since he had already gone through an extraction of 14 teeth before, it was tough to see him go through this again. But he’s bouncing back much faster this time—such a trooper!

We’ve always been diligent about cleaning Jax’s teeth, so this came as a surprise. But I’ve been told that dental issues are pretty common in smaller dogs, no matter how well you care for their teeth.

For the next two weeks, he’s on a soft food diet and can’t have anything in his mouth—which is going to be tough for him!

Every morning and whenever we come home, he greets us by proudly carrying a sock or a stuffed animal as a little “gift.” It’s his way of showing love, so I know he and Ollie are really missing their toys right now. I only wish they understood that I’m not being a mean mom—I just want Jax to heal.

If you have a senior dog, I’d love to hear how you keep them comfortable and happy!

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Overwintering Geraniums

The geraniums are still happily overwintering in the greenhouse.

Flower and Vegetable Seedlings

The greenhouse has been my happy place lately! I’ve been busy starting more seeds and getting a head start on the garden. It’s always so exciting to see those first tiny sprouts popping up, full of promise for the season ahead.

Are you starting seeds indoors this year? If you’re looking for tips, check out my latest blog post, ‘Growing a Cut Flower Garden for Beginners: 21 Resources and Tips,’ which is a roundup of all my seed-starting posts.

It has everything you need to grow healthy seedlings at home!

What’s Popping Up in the Garden?

I had my first sighting of a spring hyacinth.

The heather is blooming, and the daylilies, spring bulbs, and sedum autumn joy are starting to grow. Yes! Spring is almost here!

More Dahlias on the Way!

You can never have too many dahlias, right? I placed another order for dahlia tubers this week, and I can’t wait to see them bloom this summer. There’s nothing quite like those big, beautiful flowers swaying in the breeze!

Are you growing dahlias this year? If you’re looking for great sources, here are a few of my favorite places to order from:

If you want information on growing dahlias in your garden, I’ve written a beginner’s guide you can check out. I’ll be splitting the dahlia tubers in April.

“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.” — Hal Borland

Brightening Up the Cottage with Spring Flowers

With chilly temperatures still hanging around, I brought a little spring cheer inside! Spring flowers have been making their way into the house, adding the sweetest pops of color to my kitchen and living spaces.

Something about their delicate petals and bright faces instantly lifts the mood—don’t you agree? If you’re looking for a fun way to display them indoors, I love using vintage containers, baskets, or even an old galvanized bucket for a charming cottage look.

Alpino™ Early Lime Saxifrage is an early flowering variety with pretty white flowers with prominent lime green centers that bloom for a window of up to ten weeks.

This herbaceous perennial plant forms a low cushion of deer and rabbit-resistant foliage and is perfect for dappled shade in a rock garden, bed, or border.

Aren’t these purple Penny Denim Jump-Up violas are the perfect pop of color for our drab winter days?

I also brought out the birds and floral linens.

Spring Cottage Home Tour and Simple Decorating Ideas

Are you looking for spring home decor ideas now that spring is officially here? In this post, I’ll take you on a spring home tour of my cottage living room and bedroom while sharing some simple spring decor ideas to make your home look and feel its best this season…CONTINUE READING.

How to Improve Your Garden Using Last Year’s Lessons

Want to make your garden even better this year? Improve your garden by learning from last year’s successes (and, let’s be honest, the mistakes, too!). Every season teaches us something new, and using those lessons can make a big difference in how your garden grows…CONTINUE READING.

How to Start a New Flower Garden from Scratch for Beginners

Do you dream of starting a new flower garden but aren’t quite sure where to start? It might feel overwhelming if you’re a first time gardener, but don’t worry. With some planning, patience, and care, your new garden will start to take shape before you know it…CONTINUE READING.

From Seed to Bloom: Your Guide for Growing Sweet Peas from Seed

Have you dreamed of having a garden full of fragrant sweet pea flowers? I’ll share my tips on sowing sweet pea seeds indoors, transplanting the young plants into the garden, and caring for these beautiful blooms throughout their growing season… CONTINUE READING.

The Perfect Time to Cut Back Spring Bulb Flowers and Foliage

Are you frustrated by all the dead leaves your spring-flowering bulbs leave behind in your garden beds? I’ll give you tips on the best time to cut back your spring bulb flowers and foliage and why timing is so important for next year’s blooms…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

You’ll fall in love with this gorgeous home.

Looking for an easy spring craft? Check out these decoupage oyster shells.

Now, this martini looks interesting! Who loves key lime pie?

I want to make a DIY Easter wreath like this for spring.

What’s your favorite feature in this amazing home?

Doesn’t poblano chicken tortilla soup sound delicious?

Need some ideas for an Oscars Watch Party?

I’m in love with this charming restored arts and crafts house in Scotland.

Here’s What’s Next

I’m going on a vintage shopping trip next week and can’t wait to share all the highlights!

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

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