Saltwater Sounds: Summer’s Here and We’re Soaking It In

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.

This and That

It’s officially summer, and here in the Pacific Northwest, you can feel the season beginning to settle in.

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While much of the country has been experiencing a record-setting heatwave this weekend, we’ve been hanging out comfortably in the sixties and seventies, with a little rain mixed in over the past couple of days.

Before the rain rolled in, we were basically living out on the deck, soaking up those beautiful garden and water views. Here’s my favorite spot to enjoy the view.

And the evenings are even more magical!

Getting Ready for the 4th

The 4th of July will be here before we know it!

I just pulled out my patriotic decorations and have started planning my outdoor decor for our traditional breakfast and parade watch on the morning of the 4th.

It’s always one of my favorite days of the summer, filled with simple traditions, good food, and lots of red, white, and blue.

A Walk in the Garden

Summer color is building. Even with the cooler temps and rain, the garden continues to move into its full summer rhythm.

The lilies are blooming and looking amazing!

The cut flower garden feels like it’s on the edge of bursting this time of year.

Every day brings something new, and right now, the cosmos, nasturtiums, sweet peas, and statice are all happily blooming.

It’s so much fun to walk through and watch the garden slowly unfold into its full summer glory.

My first few sunflowers are blooming.

And the coneflowers aren’t far behind!

The hydrangea bushes will be in full color before we know it.

I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Alstroemeria. Honestly, I can’t even remember if I planted it years ago or if it was already here when we moved in. Either way, it’s here to stay!

I do love how long the blooms last in flower arrangements. Nothing I grow holds up in a vase quite like Alstroemeria.

But in the garden? That’s where the “hate” part comes in. It’s one of the most invasive plants I’ve ever dealt with. I’ve tried digging it out more times than I can count, but the roots run deep and spread far, making it nearly impossible to remove completely.

So here’s my tip of the week: if you love Alstroemeria as much as I do, plant it in containers or pots. Keeping it contained will save you a lot of frustration down the road—I promise you’ll thank me later!

My friend Lori has the prettiest wildflower section in her garden, and I couldn’t wait to share these with you. The colors are absolutely gorgeous!

“Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.” — Laura Ingalls Wilder

On the Blog

Perfectly Patriotic 4th of July Tablescape Ideas

If you’re starting to think about your 4th of July plans (like I am!), I’ve got some fun ideas for setting a simple and festive patriotic table.

It’s all about pulling out the red, white, and blue, keeping it easy, and adding a few special touches to make your holiday feel extra festive without the stress. I’m sharing my favorite ideas for creating a relaxed 4th of July tablescape that’s perfect for your backyard barbecue or parade-day breakfast…CONTINUE READING.

Coastal Cottage Charm: Summer Kitchen Tour of Our 1920s Beach House

We’re heading into the kitchen, where vintage charm, cozy coastal touches, and a few creative storage ideas come together for a laid-back summer vibe. Come take a little tour of our kitchen and eating area and see how we’ve brought those relaxed summer feels inside… CONTINUE READING.

Add Timeless Style to Your Home with Vintage and Antique Décor

If you love vintage style as much as I do, you know there’s just something special about filling your home with pieces that tell a story. Here I’m sharing how mixing antique and vintage finds can give your home that collected-over-time feel, without spending a fortune. It’s all about adding charm, character, and pieces you truly love…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

I’m loving this “Brenham” home from Marie Flanigan Interiors’ portfolio.

How about white chocolate bark for a 4th of July treat?

This DIY tropical napkin ring dupe for less than $5.00.

How to make a refreshing sweet peach iced tea.

This lemon parmesan sesame salad is the perfect meal for summer.

You’ll absolutely love this “Ashland Ave House” from the Bria Hammel portfolio.

Cool down with this homemade lemon sorbet recipe.

These quick and easy pineapple chicken salad cups.

As we head toward the 4th, I’m hoping for a few sunnier days ahead so we can spend even more time outside. There’s still plenty of summer ahead, but as always, it feels like it will go by in a flash, so I’m doing my best to soak it all in.

Thanks so much for following along. Wishing you a beautiful first full week of summer!

Until next time,

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