Antiquing

I know that for some, antiquing isn't an activity, but for me?  Always has been.  There's just something about things with a history that fascinate me.  Over the years, I have collected depression glass - beautiful pinks and greens in glassware and condiment trays or candy dishes.  I've collected Vernonware - stoneware made in California.  I've always collected rocks, but that's not really antiquing -- because I don't collect rocks that I pay for!!  And Pyrex!  I just love old Pyrex.  But what's the draw??

When I'm in a shop and I find something "old" , I'm always amazed by the craftsmanship.  We don't make things like we used to!  An old dressing set of a hairbrush and mirror wasn't made out of plastic.  Some of it was very ornate, and some of it even created out of real silver!  But for me it goes beyond the actual object. 

Think about the woman who might have owned that brush and mirror.  They're beautifully placed on the top of her dresser, not hidden in a drawer.  They're beautiful to look at and yet also very practical.  It seemed there was more time for personal time in days gone by.  She probably sat on a tufted stool in front of a mirror and stroked her hair 100 times for a beautiful shine.  Now?  I'm lucky if I can slash a comb through my hair before dashing out the door.  We're just a little too busy these days! 

When going antiquing, don't go with having a specific goal in mind.  Head in to the shop and really soak up the atmosphere.  Most shop owners try to infuse their shop with a certain vibe using colors and presentation.  Take a few moments to appreciate that.  And as you're looking over the treasures in front of you, allow yourself to be pleased, and then pleasantly surprised when something catches your eye that you just have to have!!  Savor the experience! 

Creature Comforts

Physicians and Psychologists say that loving, caring for, and spending time with with animals enhances our well being.  Anyone who has ever been adored by a dog or cat probably can't convey in words the emotional bond that grows between them.

I know that bond.  My last dog, Sadie, was a pug.  If you look up pugs, you'll find they're playful, affectionate, charming, stubborn, mischievous, clever, docile, sociable, attentive, loving, quiet and calm.  But never all this on the same day!!  hahaha  But having a pet can give a person's life purpose, and having a pet to care for brings out the best in us.  It's not always the easiest task, but nothing worthwhile is ever easy. 

As a puppy, my Sadie was a handful!  And even though I was told that having a pug is like having a two year old, I figured that kind of fun would decrease as she grew older.  I was wrong!  She was still stubborn at 8 yrs as she was at 1 year.  

If you have a pet, you know that you can't just feed them, walk them, and ignore them.  You invited them into your life, now you should share that.  Pets need to be stroked, cuddled, indulged, pampered and played with.  As much as you dote on them, they will return that affection to you many times over.  

Today, be grateful you can share you life with a living creature who gives you much love.  There's nothing that makes you smile more than the sight of your dog greeting you at the door when you come home ---- no matter if you've been gone all day, or just 15 minutes, the wagging tail and smile on their face never falters!