We really like to browse in antiques stores. They can transport one to another time and sometimes say something about popular tastes, the type of goods that were valued during a past time, and items that have clearly served a long time before they hit the shelves. The material objects that one encounters are always delightful. Each time one visits a store of that kind, the surprise factor is in place.

The other day, we wanted a break from work, so we visited one of our favorite haunts. Walking in the door, I spotted the following item, and before anyone could say, “Jack Be Nimble, Jack Be Quick,” I had scooped it up into my hands and was ready to claim it as my own. What was this item I so coveted? Here you go:

The image of a little girl in Redwork, holding a feather duster, appealed to me. Isn’t she sweet?

After that find, I didn’t care too much about buying anything else, although I did find a few inexpensive things that called my name. These treats for the soul did not break the bank. I think that it is important for us to continue to shop, especially in the small stores that struggle to maintain themselves, on the best of days. If we don’t help, the next time we go to shop there, the store may not be in place, just an empty storefront, and how often have we seen that lately?

Sometimes, the smallest things can change a mood, or make one feel happy. Now, don’t get me wrong. Don’t spend money you don’t have, but every now and then, break into the piggie bank to “borrow” a little cash to buy a little something special. I did. Isn’t she great?

Patricia Cummings, , the home of more great Redwork designs and books, offered at no charge!

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 13th, 2008 at 1:41 am and is filed under , . You can follow any responses to this entry through the feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.