The Place Where We Live

By Sarah Nash (sarahsmith78@juno.com)

Photo from Webshots by ptycke68

My name is Sarah Nash. I was born and raised in Monroe. I lived in Ann Arbor for four years and in Western Massachusetts for two. I moved back to three and a half years ago and am happily living in downtown Monroe with my husband.

This blog was inspired by a recent conversation between other Monroe natives and non-natives about what new businesses they’d like to see. I was dismayed to hear what seemed to be a desire for large national chain stores and restaurants. It’s been exciting to see a number of new smaller locally owned businesses (specifically in the downtown area) springing up in Monroe within the past few years. This is the kind of development I’d like to continue to seeand believe that in order for them to be successful, they need our support.

My goal for this blog is to to document my journey as I challenge myself to put my money and time where my mouth is and make an concerted effort to highlight and lend my support to local businesses and events.

My goal isn’t to be a restuarant, business or entertainment critic and I’ll admit that when it comes down to convenience, I’m just as guilty of shopping at large chain stores as the next person. I’m also not looking to turn Monroe into Ann Arbor or Detroit. Those cities hold a special place in my heart and I fee luckey to have them in my own backyard. However, I think that Monroe is a charming small community with good things to offer that may get overlooked by those who still feel like they have to drive to a larger city for good food, shops and entertainment.

I hope you’ll join me on my journey. Post a comment. Let me know what your favorite local places are or what new types of local places you’d like to see in Monroe.