Happy Sunday!

It’s hard to believe we’re in the final days of our 60-day boat trip aboard Wildflower. This adventure has been everything I hoped for—peaceful mornings, new anchorages, hikes with Jax and Ollie, and so many memories with my hubby.

But as much as I’ve loved life on the water, I can feel the pull of home. I’m looking forward to returning to our little beach cottage, catching up with the garden, and giving the house its much-needed fall refresh.

The timing couldn’t be better with the official start of autumn tomorrow. It feels like the perfect moment to settle back in and embrace the cozy season ahead.

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Boating Updates Continue

Stuart Island: A Favorite PNW Stop

Crossing back into the U.S. from Victoria, our first stop was Stuart Island, one of the most peaceful and beautiful anchorages in the San Juans.

Stuart is known for its long, scenic hike that takes you through forests, up gentle hills, and eventually rewards you with incredible views.

One of the quirkiest and most charming things about this island is the honor system t-shirt stand up by the little schoolhouse.

You pick your favorite shirt, make payment online, and go.

Another fun thing about visiting Stuart Island, besides the long, gorgeous hike, is stopping by the two historic schoolhouses near the trail.

The first schoolhouse has been turned into a tiny community library, complete with shelves of well-loved books and a cozy, old-fashioned feel.

The second building is more of a museum, filled with historic photos, artifacts, and memorabilia that tell the story of what life on this little island used to be like.

I always love peeking at the old class photos and imagining what it must have been like to go to school here. This year, there are only two children attending the school, which makes this place feel even more special and close-knit.

Roche Harbor: Marina, Gardens & More

Next up was Roche Harbor, one of our regular stops!

It is known for its picture-perfect marina and resort feel. We strolled the docks, popped into the shops, and enjoyed some good meals at the restaurants here.

Pulling into Roche Harbor Marina always feels like arriving at a little resort village.

The docks are full of activity.

Boats come and go, people stroll throughout the many pathways, and the most beautiful view of the historic Hotel de Haro stands proudly above it all.

We made sure to visit all three of Roche Harbor’s restaurants during our stay, because why not?

Madrona Bar & Grill – perfect for a casual meal overlooking the water.

This is our favorite restaurant experience. We can sit on the deck with our dogs and enjoy the gorgeous marina view.

McMillin’s Dining Room – for a more formal dinner with stunning sunset views.

The Lime Kiln Café – where we started the morning breakfast (mostly donuts).

Each spot has its own vibe, but they all share one thing—fantastic views of the marina.

We even brought out the kayaks and paddled around the harbor this trip.

Another special spot in Roche Harbor is the Our Lady of Good Voyage Chapel, the sweet little white church perched on the hill overlooking the marina.

Built in 1892, it’s one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in Washington still in use.

The stained-glass windows and simple interior are beautiful, and the view from the church steps down toward the harbor is picture-perfect. It’s one of those places that makes Roche Harbor feel even more timeless and charming.

The Hotel de Haro is one of my favorite landmarks here. It has so much charm with its wraparound porch and white clapboard exterior. It’s like stepping back in time, and I love imagining all the history it has seen over the years.

Now we’re off to the gardens with pathways of brick and white picket fences along the way.

The Roche Harbor Garden is always a place I love to visit.

Manicured beds, seasonal flowers, and those colorful flags create the most charming backdrop for photos. It’s one of those places I always linger a little longer just to soak in all the beauty.

The Japanese anemones were the true stars of the garden during our visit, blooming in both soft white and vibrant pink and adding such a graceful, airy feel to the beds.

And there are the most amazing Sedum Autumn Joy colors you’ve ever seen.

The resort also has the most gorgeous fall flower containers I’ve ever seen. So much inspiration here.

One of the most charming details at Roche Harbor is the brick path that winds from the garden up toward the Hotel de Haro. Each brick is engraved with names, sayings, or special dedications. It’s almost like a little time capsule under your feet.

One of my must-stops every time we visit is Dominique’s House.

It’s full of beautiful home décor pieces, gifts, and unique finds that make it hard to leave empty-handed.

The historic Mausoleum is another fascinating spot, tucked just a short walk from the marina. Roche Harbor really has a little bit of everything—there’s always something to do, see, or eat.

I also love wandering through the garden and the sculpture park, both of which are beautiful this time of year.

And you can’t have a Saltwater Sounds blog post without a seaplane next to our boat, am I right?

Garrison Bay: History and Oysters

From Roche, we headed over to Garrison Bay, which is home to English Camp, a historic site with beautiful trails. We took the boys for a walk here and enjoyed the peaceful setting.

Another highlight of this stop was lunch at Westcott Bay Shellfish Co.

If you’ve never been, it’s a must!

We enjoyed fried oysters, delicious salads, and the best grilled sandwiches, all while overlooking the water.

In full disclosure, I have never liked oysters. Until we found this place. They were absolutely fabulous with the best flavors. We are true fans and will make the trip every time we are in this area.

It’s such a quintessential San Juan Islands experience.

Above is where the oysters were grilled. You can buy fresh oysters on-site as well.

Garrison Bay is also an amazing place to kayak! Jax and Ollie would agree.

“Let’s pumpkin spice things up a bit.”- Unknown

20 Fall Living Room Decor Ideas for a Warm and Cozy Refresh

If you’re looking for ideas to decorate your living room for fall, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing my favorite ways to style fall living room decor. From the coffee table and fireplace mantel to easy, budget-friendly ways to add seasonal charm with thrift store finds, vintage pieces, and cozy textiles…CONTINUE READING.

How to Make a DIY Fresh Magnolia Leaf Wreath

This easy-to-make DIY fresh magnolia leaf wreath is perfect for fall and holidays. I’ll show you how I incorporated magnolia leaves from the tree in our yard, branches of all kinds, and dried oranges. A step-by-step tutorial is below…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

Here’s an easy pumpkin mousse recipe you need to try.

The “Avondale” house from the Weeth Home portfolio.

These easy DIY leaf place cards are perfect for an elegant fall table.

Get these potluck pointers!

Learn how to make herb butter to use now and later.

This pear tart looks amazing!

You’ll love this classically coastal “Gracie Oaks” home.

Try this iced apple cider caramel oatmeal cookie recipe for fall.

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up this incredible 60-day adventure, it’s hard to believe our time aboard Wildflower is almost over. By the time next week’s Saltwater Sounds lands in your inbox, we’ll be back at our little beach cottage.

This trip has been such a gift—slowing down, exploring new places, and spending so much uninterrupted time with my hubby and the boys. I feel recharged, inspired, and ready to jump back into all things fall.

I’m looking forward to catching up with the garden, adding some cozy autumn touches around the house, and sharing all the photos, stories, and inspiration we’ve gathered over the past two months on the water. It’s been an unforgettable trip, but there’s something so comforting about coming home, especially with autumn waiting to welcome us.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

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