Saltwater Sounds Weekly: Welcome to February

Welcome to Saltwater Sounds, a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. This is where I share everything happening in the world of Shiplap and Shells, what’s to come, and the inspiration I’ve found from other bloggers around the web.

This and That

Happy February! It’s a short month but we do have an extra day this year and I couldn’t be happier. What will you do with this gift of time?

One of the earliest flowers to bloom in February is the primrose which even blooms through the snow. It is also February’s birth flower.

The white and purple primroses look perfect growing in my porch planter.

Did you know that there is a 1 in 1,461 chance of a leap day birthday?

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Around the Garden and Greenhouse

The hellebores (lenten roses) are beautiful this time of year. They’re perfect for your winter flower arrangements.

The daffodils are just about to bloom in the cutting garden’s raised beds.

I spy some tulips as well coming up through the mulched leaves we spread through the garden last fall.

Do you have evergreen outdoor ferns in your garden?

Do you see how they can turn brown and start to look tired? Read my blog post on how to cut back ferns every year to get new frond growth. Trust me, it’s worth it!

You can see that the sedum autumn joy has new growth.

Rather than cutting back the old growth last fall, I decided to keep the sedum plants throughout the winter for the wildlife. I’ll probably cut everything back by the end of the month.

The greenhouse is starting to fill up with yarrow, chocolate lace flowers, and sweet pea seedlings.

Here’s a look at the first few yarrow seedlings.

Around Our Beach Cottage

I don’t think I’ve ever shared my office before. Probably because it took me so many years to clean this entire space.

Above is the view of my desk and the sweet boys that sleep under my desk and in front of the door to the backyard whenever I’m busy working up here.

Can you spot Jax and Ollie sleeping?

Here’s the corner to the right of my desk.

The turquoise table folds out to a full round table which I use when I’m working on a project.

This area is directly to the right of the entrance to my office.

It’s hard to see Jax sleeping on the white sofa. This is where we watch TV at night and just hang out.

Do you remember this coffee table?

It used to be in our living room for years before we got our new leather couch. The color didn’t match the new couch so we brought it upstairs to the office/studio.

From the Blog

How To Build a Charming DIY Faux Fireplace Mantel Surround

Creating a faux fireplace mantel surround is a great way to add warmth and character to any room. This DIY project can transform an ordinary space into a great focal point, with the charm and coziness of a traditional fireplace… CONTINUE READING.

How Long Old Seeds Last: Flower Seed Viability Chart

Are you unsure if your old flower seeds from last year can still be sown? If you’re wondering how long old seeds will last, this post will help you determine flower seed viability…CONTINUE READING.

From Seed to Bloom: Your Guide for Growing Healthy Sweet Peas

Have you dreamed of having a garden full of good old-fashioned sweet pea flowers? I’ll share my tips on sowing sweet pea seeds indoors, transplanting them into the garden, and caring for these beautiful blooms throughout their growing season…CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

I want to try these soft peanut butter Valentine’s Day cookies.

You are going to love this quick and easy Valentine DIY.

Learn how to make these sweet springtime branches with DIY paper blossoms.

This simple crockpot buffalo chicken chili is perfect for game day, family dinners, and all the nights in between.

I’m loving these creative ideas for DIY handmade Valentine’s cards.

How to install under cabinet lighting like a pro.

Can you believe you can make these 12 creative DIY Valentine’s gifts for under $5?

Check out these tips on decorating a long and narrow living room.

I wish my mom knew about these simple ideas for a boho sweet 16th birthday party when I was growing up!

This easy chicken and spinach flatbread pizza recipe looks delicious.

Here are some easy tips and ideas for updating your bathroom on a budget.

This is my favorite Valentine’s Day recipe of the week.

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and let me know what you’d like to see on the blog! Thank you for being here.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful week ahead,

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