104 South Main . . .  It sounds like a typical address, in a typical town, anywhere in the country. Or, perhaps it’s a trendy new restaurant? Or a cute little gift shop you can’t wait to explore.

In fact, it really is just an address; in a small town, where I spent a good part of my summers, and where my mother grew up. A little white house on South Main Street, with green shutters, a charming front porch, and a tiny imprint of my uncle’s shoe on the steps leading to the garage.

My grandparents lived simply. Instead of filling up their home with a lot of things (what Grandma termed as “grabby”), they chose to purchase a nearby lake cottage and to travel on occasion. I want do that too. And, I will! Until then, I intend to follow their example . . . to appreciate the simple things in life by focusing on the people I love and the things that make me happy.

To me, living simply isn’t just about making do with less; it’s about finding joy in the comfort of home. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve thought to myself, “I love my little house.” It’s a gift that I cherish. And I know Grandma felt that way too, as she said, “Goodbye, House” with affection on her way out the door.

I’ll be the first to admit, I have expensive tastes. (Thanks, Mom!) But as a nod to Grandma, I’ve always balanced costs by investing in a few pieces of good, solid furniture, and supplementing with hand-me-downs, flea market finds, and affordable options at Target and HomeGoods. I love the challenge of finding just the right thing for every nook!

Although 104 South Main isn’t my actual address, it’s a reminder of simpler times, and the perfect place for my thoughts to reside. So, I hope you enjoy the view inside my little story and a half, in my small town, in my part of the country.

I plan to post on a variety of topics, as that’s the format that works best for me. Feel free to comment. I’d love to know what you think!

And because I wouldn’t want you to leave empty-handed, peek inside my recipe box for one of my all-time favorites . . . Mrs. Drentell’s Molasses Sugar Cookies!

– Debra