Living Small in a Big World: The Soundtrack of Merrill Mischief

Living Small in a Big World: The Soundtrack of Merrill Mischief

“That’s my favorite song!”

We’ve all had that unmatched feeling when a favorite tune drifts through the air unexpectedly. In a moment, you’re transported—back to a memory, a place, a person. Movies call it a soundtrack, but really, it’s the heartbeat of our lives.

At Merrill Mischief, our playlist is part of the magic. Disney classics (old and new), Christmas carols in every season, and the occasional surprise—like the Harry Potter theme or even Monster Mash—float through the store. Kids light up when Elsa belts out Let It Go or Moana declares her name. Grown-ups pause, grin, and puzzle over “Which movie was that from again?” The joy of recognition is contagious.

And yes, nothing compares to hearing Jingle Bells or White Christmas on a blazing August afternoon. Downtown Morganton might be sweltering, but inside, it feels like dashing through the snow.

That’s the magic of music—it brings back memories in the same way candy does. The sight of a childhood favorite sweet, the first bite of Craig’s award-winning fudge, or the glow of twinkling Christmas trees (up year-round at our shop!) all stir up that same sense of wonder and delight.

Of course, behind the scenes, the soundtrack gets personal. I’ve caught Craig channeling Hank Williams and Johnny Cash while stirring up his legendary fudge. As for me, I’ll admit that ABBA is my cleaning-day fuel. Trust me—brooms make surprisingly good dance partners.

Music has a way of making a big world feel safe and familiar, just like our little shop on the courthouse square. Living small in a big world means savoring those moments of joy—the right song at the right time, the right taste that brings back a memory, the right sparkle of lights that makes you smile.

Music makes the world go round. Candy makes it sweeter.