Saltwater Sounds: Spring’s Arrival and Paris Reflections

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.

magnolia tree in bloom

It’s official — spring has arrived, and I couldn’t be happier!

The days are getting longer, the birds are singing, and the garden is waking up. I don’t know about you, but this is one of my favorite times of the year, full of fresh starts.

And speaking of fresh starts…I just returned from an unforgettable 10-day adventure in Paris!

Cobblestone street in Paris

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sidewalk cafe in Paris

There’s nothing quite like a trip to the fabulous city of Paris.

It’s amazing how much there is to see and do. We wandered through the city’s charming cobblestone streets, taking in the beauty of Notre Dame, Versailles, and the Les Tuileries Gardens.

Seine river in Paris

I savored each flaky morning croissant, strolled along the Seine, and enjoyed every detail that makes Paris unforgettable.

Sidewalk Cafés

There was an inviting sidewalk cafe everywhere you looked.

sidewalk cafe

And there were so many beautiful styles to choose from, each one inviting you to sit back, sip, and soak in the moment.

flower shop in Paris

Flower Shops in the City

There weren’t many flowers blooming in the city besides a few daffodils here and there, so the flower shops around Paris were a bright, beautiful treat.

flower shop in Paris
flower shop in Paris
Arc-de-Triomphe
Arc-de-Triomphe

More Paris Sights

I’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of all that Paris has to offer — and I can’t wait to share even more with you next week!

Church-of-Saint-Severin
Church-of-Saint-Severin
the city of Paris

Around the Garden and In the Greenhouse


yellow daffodils in the garden

Coming home to the Pacific Northwest meant checking on the greenhouse, and let me tell you, a lot is happening in there.

seedlings growing in the garden

The seeds I planted before leaving had done their thing, and the greenhouse is now filled with trays of happy little seedlings stretching toward the light.

YOU MAY NEED THESE

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.


pink and purple hyacinths growing in the garden

While I was away, I also noticed some early spring blooms in the garden beds—cheerful daffodils, hyacinths in full swing, and azalea shrubs blooming.

pink blooming azaleas

What’s on My To-Do List This Week

This coming week, I’ll be:

  • Starting even more seeds (I can never resist adding “just one more tray!”)
  • Prepping garden beds as soon as we get a dry day or two
  • And, of course, getting outside to soak in every moment of this beautiful season
pink azalea bloom shrub

A Little Encouragement

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just dipping your toes into planting this year, take it one step at a time and enjoy every small success.

azalea blooms

Even a single pot of spring flowers by the front door can bring so much joy.

As Lady Bird Johnson said, “Where flowers bloom, so does hope.”

And if you’re still facing cold weather where you are, hang in there! Spring weather is on its way and will be here before you know it.

yellow daffodils growing in the garden
yellow daffodils
garden in the spring overlooking the bay

Let’s Plan Your Dream Garden With Our

Gardening Planner

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“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” — Margaret Atwood


On the Blog


cottage garden

Did you know that splitting perennial plants in your garden keeps them healthy and can save you money too? This guide will show you the process of dividing perennials, the right timing, and the benefits it brings to your garden…CONTINUE READING.

bright colored tulips growing in the raised beds

Are you growing tulip bulbs in the garden this spring? This garden guide has everything you need to know about growing and caring for tulips…CONTINUE READING.

Easter garden tablescape

Looking for some new table decorating ideas for Easter this year? I’ve created an Easter “garden party” themed tablescape that looks amazing and can be accomplished on any budget…CONTINUE READING.

cottage kitchen decorated for spring

LET’S GO SHOPPING FOR

Garden Supplies and Tools

Check out my favorite garden supplies and tools for the growing season. Whether you’re looking for potting soil or deer repellent, you’ll find what I use in my own garden.


My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

You won’t want to miss out on these amazing strawberry cupcakes!

I love this farmer’s market-style spring tablescape.

Here are 8 ways to add cottage charm with garden flowers and fruit.

This old farmhouse renovation made the most of these low ceilings.

Recover a lampshade using fabric with this tutorial.

This Scottsdale, Arizona home is full of inspiration. 

You’ll love the English country style in this San Francisco home.

This estate’s landscaping is gorgeous.

Check out this DIY cupcake wrapper tutorial.

This home has it all with stone accent walls, a custom fluted marble fireplace surround, and vintage windows incorporated as custom built-ins.

Until next time.

With gratitude,

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