If you were to ask my mom, she would probably tell you that as a child, I was a pack-rat. I, however, would have classified myself as a collector. I collected pretty much everything: coupons at the grocery store, rubber bands, magazine clippings, dolls, books, pamphlets from the doctor’s office. I could occupy myself for hours with these treasures, because I believed that, at some point, I might be able to find an incredibly creative use for these novelties. To me, it was easy to see that these everyday items had some potential value.
It was around this same time that my dad and I started collecting stamps together. Each time we would get a new stamp, we created a special page in the stamp book with the history of the stamp and why it had been issued. We would add a protective sleeve to make sure that the stamp would stay clean and safe, and then sit back to admire our newest addition. I remember him pointing out these stamps were special because they marked something historic and any stamp collector could see that they had special value because of the care we had put into preserving them.
I may not collect stamps anymore, but the concept is still the same. My life is full of a lot of things, some having value and some just taking up space. The distinction between the two categories is shown by how I treat the things I see as valuable. The hidden wonder behind a collection is that it reveals a part of the collector’s heart, and what they see as having value in their world. Whether you collect teacups, china, or coins, there is a story behind each piece that reveals who you are in a unique way.
Throughout the week, we have examined different collections and creative ways to display them throughout our lives. Hopefully, this week has inspired you to see your own collections in a new light, and possibly even take a few trips down memory lane. Let us know about some of your favorite items in your collection!
FREE GIVEAWAY!!
This week’s prize: $25 Container Store gift card
Leave a comment on any post Monday through Friday to be automatically entered in our Weekly Giveaway. Each week, one lucky reader will be chosen at random to receive a fun prize! Check back on Saturday’s Top Twelve article to find out who won!
photo istockphoto
Hello, my name is Patti Di Loreto and I am Kristin Campbell’s aunt! My favorite collection has always been my children’s Christmas storybook collection. I started it when I was very young and I have a few hundred now. Two floor to ceiling bookcases full plus a lot in boxes & stacks here & there! I add to it every year. It’s one of my favorite Christmas traditions, to go shopping for books to add to my collection. I also look for books to add to my “collection within the collection” – variations on “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
I enjoyed your article here. Your first paragraph could’ve been written about me as a child as well. Just add bottle caps to the list, ha! My favorite collections as a child were seashells, rocks & candles. Actually, I still tend to collect those things and now have 2 boys to help in that endeavor. I had a big candle collection that I would set out on top of the TV every Christmas (console TV back then with the nice wide, wooden top). It was mostly made up of Christmas candles I had bought at the five & dime store at the little mall in my neighborhood. Thanks for the great article that took me on my own trip down memory lane!
Have a great day!
Patti
Aunt Patti–thanks for the wonderful comment!! I have always loved your Christmas book collection!
We’ve been praying for you non-stop–love you bunches…
So pleased you stopped by at my blog cause now I’ve found you!!!
I’m an avid cook book collector, seems quite silly really but they bring me so much joy, hopefully when I’m less full on with my house building project I’ll get to buy more (I’m after some vintage books..ebay get ready!)and use them more too.
I’m so looking forward to having them all on display in my new kitchen…Im having a section of library style shelving especially for my “display” of books.
Love your site…am off to have another browse round, Best wishes from Ireland – Mrs C x
I collect sea glass and shells from beaches that I visit each summer. I keep the sea glass separated by beach, in tiny little glass vases and jars. My collection looks appealing and holds memories.