Saltwater Sounds: A Gentle Start to the Holiday Hustle

Welcome to Saltwater Sounds, a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration. Here, 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 Sunday!

Can you believe Thanksgiving is just around the corner? I’ve been sitting here thinking about all the amazing things to be thankful for – and honestly, YOU are right at the top of that list.

Whether you’re here hunting for garden tips, looking to spruce up your space, or just wanting to get into that cozy holiday mood, I’m beyond thankful you’re part of our community here.

Ready to catch up on what’s been happening this week? Let’s jump in!

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It’s the last weekend before the big Thanksgiving holiday. Are you ready? How will you be spending your Thanksgiving this year?

My hubby and I consider ourselves holiday orphans. We won’t be hosting the holidays but celebrate Friendsgiving with dear friends. We always have so much fun wherever we go.

“Give thanks not just on Thanksgiving Day, but every day of your life. Appreciate and never take for granted all that you have.” – Catherine Pulsifier

The Pacific Northwest Cyclone Bomb

Did you hear about the cyclone bomb here in the Pacific Northwest?

After hearing about it on the national news, several people asked if we were safe. We are fine, and besides having our “normal” downpour, we didn’t get the 40 m.p.h. gusts of wind that were forecasted last Tuesday. We were spared when many were not.

Many other areas around Seattle got hit hard, and as of last night, when I was writing this, 80,000 customers were still out of power. There was quite a lot of damage in places, including the town I went to high school, Issaquah.

In a noon update on Saturday, crews have restored power to more than 570,000 customers and have brought all hospitals back online.

A New Window Seat in My Office

I love this alcove in my office. But it’s always needed more. And now, more than 12 years after moving into our beach cottage, I’m finally getting a window seat.

This will be the coziest little spot for the boys and me and provide much-needed storage space for seasonal home decor.

The person who made the window seat at his home workshop brought it over yesterday and got most of it installed. It should be finished today.

I need to paint and get cushions made. I can’t wait!

Decorating for Christmas

I’ve finally finished decorating the living room and kitchen for Christmas. Have you seen my Christmas tour yet?

This year’s holiday decor approach looks a bit different from previous years. I’m still recovering from knee surgery, so I only used about half the Christmas decorations I usually do. But here’s the thing – I’ve realized that small statements make your home feel just as warm and festive.

I hope to finish our bedroom and the guest room in the next few days.

Holiday Decor Shopping

I stopped at Target the other day after my physical therapy appointment. I found many items in-store (a lot I took home with me) unavailable online for shipping.

I was surprised after sitting down at my computer yesterday, trying to find the links to send you for all the great stuff I bought. I wonder if they’re only available at the stores this year because they’ve already sold out online.

Unfortunately, we seem to have to start our holiday shopping earlier every year to get the good stuff before it sells out.

LTK Target Holiday Decor

Be sure to shop on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25th this year. This is a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities.

From the Blog

Quick and Easy Cozy Christmas Cottage Kitchen Decorating Ideas

Do you feel overwhelmed when thinking about decorating your kitchen for the holiday season? Take a tour of my decorated kitchen as I share some quick and easy Christmas decor ideas to make your kitchen feel merry, bright, and effortlessly inviting this holiday season… CONTINUE READING.

How to Dry Orange Slices for Your Fall and Winter Holiday DIY Projects

Do you have a love for classic Christmas decorations? The Christmas season is filled with holiday traditions and nostalgia. One of the best ways to capture that classic charm is by decorating your home with cherished vintage decor… CONTINUE READING.

My Favorite Inspiration Around the Web This Week

Ina Garten has some tips for a less stressful Thanksgiving.

These pull-apart garlic butter spinach and artichoke dip sliders are perfect for the holidays.

You will absolutely LOVE this holiday home and greenhouse tour as much as I did!

Who knew you could make snowflake ornaments out of toilet paper rolls?

How about a different way to display your vintage ornaments? Check out this DIY tree wall art.

I HAVE to make this sweet DIY viral gingerbread house Christmas mug.

Here’s how you can make a life-size nutcracker for your front porch.

See how easy it is to make a simple gingerbread snow globe centerpiece for your holiday table.

For all of my American friends, have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Until next time,

Wishing a wonderful holiday week ahead,

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