Saltwater Sounds: Springing Forward, Paris Bound and a Greenhouse Full of Seeds
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.

How did “springing forward” work for you this morning?
This is one of my favorite days of the year. The thought of getting those longer, light-filled evenings far outweighs the loss of an hour for me.
It seemed like it took forever to get here, but March always makes me excited about the promise of spring and all that comes with it.
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This and That
Off to Paris
I’m off to Paris tomorrow!
A good friend and I have been planning this 10-day adventure since last May, and it’s finally here.
From charming flower markets to dreamy sidewalk cafés, it’s sure to be an amazing getaway. If you have any Paris must-sees, let me know! I’ll be sharing plenty of pictures when I return.
Among the Flowers: Garden & Greenhouse Updates
Seed Starting Success
My greenhouse is in full swing, and the trays of seedlings are taking over!
You’d think that after years of growing my own cut flowers from seed, I’d be used to the magic of seeing tiny green shoots pop up. But no—every time a new variety germinates, I still get just as excited as the first time!
Last week, I sowed zinnias and cosmos, which are already sprouting. With most of my seeds planted and the greenhouse filling up fast, it won’t be long before I start hardening off the first round of transplants. Spring is definitely in the air!
Early March Garden
The hellebores are the gardening gift that keeps on giving.
We’re getting some color in the March garden.
I found some English daisies at Costco.
Our camelia tree is blooming and looking gorgeous.
This view gives you an idea of just how big our tree is. All those fuchsia blooms are from just one tree.
“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” – Robert Louis Stevenson
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.
At the Cottage
Decorating for Spring
I wanted to share our beach cottage now that spring is just about here.
I traded the copper accessories displayed on the open shelving for winter with green and white dishes and accents.
I love bringing out the spring faux blossom tree for spring.
More faux blossoms fill this vase.
I’m more of a simple wildflower arrangement kind of girl when it comes to flowers. These are from Trader Joe’s.
Glass cloches are a great piece for spring decor, and you can fill them with so many things. I love how the Easter eggs add color to the space.
And there are plenty of bunnies in the living room.
Spring Touches in the Laundry Room
Even though our home is on the smaller side, the laundry room is pretty spacious. It also gets a lot of traffic throughout the day, so I love decorating it for the different seasons.
I’ve been adding some springtime charm here. I love refreshing this space with seasonal florals and garden-inspired decor.
And you know I love using vintage pieces like this yellow beat-up toolbox and flower frogs.
On the Blog
Easy-to-Grow Flowers to Plant in Your Garden for Beginners
Are you thinking about growing a flower garden but need help deciding which easy flowers to start with? In this blog post, I’ll share the best plant choices for beginner gardeners so you won’t have to worry about having a brown thumb in the garden again..CONTINUE READING.
Natural and Organic Methods for Pest Control in the Garden
Do you have annoying pests in your garden but don’t want to use harsh chemicals on your plants? I’m sharing some natural and organic methods that will help control pests in the garden and give you peace of mind…CONTINUE READING.
How to Grow Beautiful Zinnias Indoors From Seed
Have you dreamed of growing a cut garden full of beautiful zinnia flowers? I’ll share my tips on growing zinnias from seed indoors, how to transplant seedlings into the garden, and caring for them throughout the season… CONTINUE READING.
34 Plant Favorites for a Picture-Perfect Cottage Garden
Are you overwhelmed by the thought of choosing the perfect flowers and plants for a charming cottage garden? Selecting the right plants is key to creating the beautiful cottage-style outdoor setting you’ve been dreaming of…CONTINUE READING.
Welcoming Spring with Beautiful Blooms and Vintage Dishware Tablescape
Are you looking for spring table ideas? I’ll show you how to create the perfect spring tablescape using a fabulous combination of vintage dishware and beautiful blooms. CONTINUE READING.
Favorite Finds for the Week
My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week
Here’s a great post on how to make decoupage Easter eggs with paper napkins.
You’ll be amazed by how pretty this DIY faux magnolia branch is.
I fell in love with this Westchester cottage project from Becca Interiors.
How about these 23 quick and easy Spring decorating ideas?
Check out how an old, run-down wreath turned into a dried flower masterpiece.
I love this moss-covered bunny DIY idea.
This home in Fargo is decorated so beautifully!
Here’s a healthier take on a classic Girl Scout cookie.
Here’s What’s Next
I may be across the globe this next week, but I’ve got plenty of content lined up while I’m away! Keep an eye out for more spring garden tips, a spring centerpiece idea, and maybe even a little Parisian charm sprinkled in.
As always, thank you for being here and sharing in this journey with me. I’d love to hear how your garden is coming along—have you started your seeds yet?
Until next time,
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead,
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