Joanna Goddard, Cup of JoCathy Penton's blog is called Simple Things Small Joys, and her home reflects this motto perfectly. The cottage she shares with her husband and two children is filled with fresh flowers, white dishes and fragrant soaps. Let's travel to Meringandan, Australia, and take a peek inside...

Tell us about your lovely home.
We live in a tiny, old cottage. Depending on the seasons, it can get very hot or very cold, but there's so much character and history inside the walls, which makes it all worthwhile. The children have helped with the huge renovation process. I'm really proud that we've done most of the work ourselves--including painting, sanding floors and decorating.

What ambiance did you want to create?
To me, it's important for a house to reflect the different people who live there, and it should feel like home.

How does your house reflect you?
We found old pieces of furniture that tell stories with a lovely patina or old chipping paint. I also use pieces from my Nanna's house; for example, her interior doors are now our tables.

Can you tell us about your kids?
Kirstie, 15, is a loving, happy teenager, who enjoys working hard at school. She's very creative and has done most of the decorating in her room. She has a passion for art and English and loves to read. Andrew, 12, has an insatiable appetite for knowledge and wants to learn more and more about the world. He loves to play chess and anything mathematical. He is a sweet, loving little man.

What do you hope your kids learn about creating a home?
When it comes to decorating, you can do anything yourself, if you give it a try.

What do you like doing at home as a family?
My husband is often on the road with his job, so when he's home we do everything together--eating, watching movies, doing homework and even renovating old furniture.

What are your favorite colors for home decor?
A warm white background is a wonderful place to start, and you can build up from there. Also, I love robin's egg blue.

What are three tips you'd give someone who is clueless about decorating?
Don't be afraid of anything; it's your space, after all. Buy what you love and work it in with what you have. Find old pieces and make them yours by painting or tweaking them to suit your needs.

What's your favorite season at home?
Probably spring. I love the beautiful days and crisp nights. The roses and lavender in my front garden look pretty, and we can all enjoy the outdoors.

Thank you so much, Cathy! For more, visit Cathy's blog Simple Things Small Joys, and read through past Cookie house tours.