Saltwater Sounds: The Calm Before the 4th of July Fun

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.

Can you believe the 4th of July is just around the corner?

With July almost here, we’ve been doing all the summer things lately—dinner with friends on the deck, decorating for the summer holiday, and daily garden walks to soak in all the blooms.

It feels good. I can say that because our temps are still in the comfortable low seventies (for now).

This week has been packed with patriotic prep, a sweet lavender wreath-making party, and even a surprise bird’s nest in the garden! I’ve got lots of garden photos to share, too! Things are changing fast out there, and every week brings something new.

I’m so ready for those endless fresh-cut floral arrangements!

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. My blog also contains other affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Getting Ready for the 4th

We’ve been pulling out all the red, white, and blue this week and getting the outdoor spaces ready for one of my favorite holiday traditions.

Our 4th of July Parade Watch breakfast is coming up, and I’m hoping our yard still looks guest-ready despite some uninvited visitors.

Moles and voles have moved in, and they’re doing a number on the garden. I ended up hiring a small local company to help manage the issue. They’ve set 9 traps, and we’re supposed to leave the new holes untouched so they can track the activity. Hopefully, it won’t look too wild when guests arrive!

Wondering what the difference is between a mole and a vole? Moles are insectivores. They tunnel underground in search of bugs and worms, creating raised ridges in your lawn.

Voles, on the other hand, are plant-eating rodents that create shallow runways and love to snack on roots, bulbs, and even stems. Both are frustrating, but in very different ways!

Making Lavender Wreaths

My friend Lori, who grows lavender on her farm, invited me to her home for a lavender wreath-making party. It smelled amazing and was such a peaceful way to spend an afternoon.

Local Fun: Farmers Market Finds

A friend and I visited the Gig Harbor Farmer’s Market on Thursday, and there were so many beautiful flowers and fresh fruits this time, definitely more than when we stopped by during our boat trip earlier this month.

A Walk In The Garden This Week

We’re still enjoying the lettuce from the garden. I know it will be bolting in the next couple of weeks, so we’re totally taking advantage of it for as long as we can.

While we were weeding in the backyard, we discovered a nest of baby birds tucked away safely in the garden. I zoomed in for pictures to avoid disturbing them.

Sadly, the last little egg hasn’t hatched yet. Witnessing nature so closely is always a bit bittersweet.

It’s officially summer flower season, and the garden is showing off in the best way. I’ll take you on a garden walk below so you can see just how much it’s changed.

The cut flower garden is finally starting to bloom.

Sweet peas, cosmos, statice, strawflower, snapdragons and nasturtium are blooming beautifully.

Here’s a peek at the milkweed plant I tried (and failed) to grow last year. But this season? It decided to give me a second chance—and I’m not mad about it!

My cosmos are gorgeous.

The daisies are here, and just in time for the 4th!

The sweet peas continue to be as gorgeous as ever.

The loosestrife is in full bloom. These can be pretty invasive, at least in my garden, but since they’re yellow and pop the garden bed, I’m ok with it.

The hydrangeas are getting more and more colorful.

“The garden is a love song, a duet between a human being and Mother Nature.” — Jeff Cox

On the Blog

How to Create a Quick and Easy Summer Barbeque Tablescape

Summer barbeques are one of the best parts of the season — good food, great company, and plenty of time spent soaking up the sunshine. And let’s be honest, part of the fun is setting the scene that makes everyone feel right at home…CONTINUE READING.

July Gardening Tips and To-Dos for the Pacific Northwest

This is the time of year when your garden is growing the most beautiful blooms, and you start enjoying the benefits of your hard work. There’s still plenty to do during these summer months, so here are some July gardening tips and to-dos for your Pacific Northwest garden to get you started… CONTINUE READING.

Small Beach Cottage Decorating Ideas With Coastal Charm

Looking for decorating ideas for a beach cottage? Look no further! As the summer months roll in, there’s no better time to create a fresh and inviting coastal vibe for the season. Take a tour of my 1920 beach cottage, where I’ll share simple summer coastal decorating ideas that will transform your home into a serene and relaxing beachy oasis… CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

Here’s the most beautiful kiwi cheesecake I have ever seen. It may be the zinnias on top!

You’ll love this dream stone house set in the lavender fields of the Luberon in France.

Tips that will help you easily clean and sharpen your pruning shears.

Check out these easy and healthy summer recipes for outdoor gatherings.

The Life Styled Co has this gorgeous home in its portfolio that you won’t want to miss.

These flower arrangements are stunning.

This citrus and mint ice block beverage cooler is a refreshing addition to any summertime party.

This home is inspired by the sun, sand and sea. 

I’ll be sharing my 4th of July parade highlights and patriotic decor next week, so stay tuned! For all my friends in the U.S., I hope you have the most fabulous and festive holiday.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

Follow Me for More Inspiration

Shop my Amazon Storefront, LTK sources, and favorite home decor, garden, and lifestyle products. When you purchase from one of my links, I earn a small commission, which helps me continue sharing all the content you expect on my blog.

Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LIKEtoKNOW.it. Do you like gardening? Join my Facebook Gardening Tips & Tricks group.