15 Mar 2026 Life happens at home

Have you ever noticed how some people’s homes welcome you from the curb? They hang a cheery wreath, arrange comfortable seating vignettes or a porch swing with cushy pillows that invite you to “come, sit and relax.”

Famous interior decorator and TV personality Nate Berkus once said, “Your home should tell the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love.” In this Home and Garden-themed issue, we visit three homes that embrace Berkus’ philosophy. First, writer KD Reep takes us inside a vintage-inspired home that “reflects bold colors, playful forms and the soulful warmth of the 1960s and 1970s.” 

Writer Phyllis Ormsby profiles a home decorated by an interior designer from Georgia who worked on 200 new homes before moving on to fitness centers. Teresa Plate considers her home in Greenbrier an urban modern style. You’ll love the beautiful photos, including her cozy back porch, which is the perfect place for sweet tea and daydreaming. 

With Easter arriving on April 5, I asked a woman who hosts what she calls “Family Dinner Nights” each week — complete with a fresh tablescape — to decorate an Easter table for our inspiration. Pattie Howse-Duncan said her fresh ideas come from her group of friends called the Doodles. Seven women often gather to share ideas about creativity, encouragement and crafting! Don’t miss Pattie’s multi-layered strawberry cake recipe. 

Those of us who long to get our hands dirty for cheap therapy and to enhance our home’s curb appeal are excited that the growing season will begin soon. We dug up tips from an expert on how to prepare your lawn, flowerbeds and containers for spring.

I invite you to sit awhile with 501 LIFE, to relax and find inspiration for your next home and garden project.

Stefanie Brazile
Editor