Forget the Internet debates, you can define what is small when answering the question. Middleburg Virginia is my favorite small town. It is not too far away, is an easy getaway, has just the right shops and is surrounded by wineries in the rolling countryside. Established in 1787 with a purchase of land from a cousin of George Washington, it now boasts a population of 632 and is known for foxhunting and steeplechasing; neither of which I have participated... yet. I grew up in Prescott Arizona, which was incorporated in 1883 surrounding the mining industry and had a population of 27,000 when I was there and is now just over 40,000. This was a great place to grow up, but has probably outgrown the title of small town. What sets apart your favorite? Each town has its own eccentricities because it is made up of interesting characters just like you and me. How the town was settled and the family that owned the big house on the hill all make for fascinating stories. You know the story about the old spinster lady that may have murdered the young drifter, but nobody like to talk about it or the only time the city was mentioned on the national news was when a twister ripped half the city apart. These are the kind of places that have amazing stories about real people; everyone knows about it and has an opinion. The upside is that you actually know your neighbors, have borrowed a real cup of sugar before and enjoy a life that is a bit slower. In light of the commute today; this sounds real appetizing.

How did you find out about your small town? How often do you make it back to visit? What is a story from the town's history? What convincing would be necessary for you to make this town your home? What other small towns do you like? What is a common characteristic between towns?