Collections, Accumulations, Passions

Years ago, I collected things that sat on shelves.   I guess because everyone around me was collecting something and it was fun to look for one of a kind owls, elephants, salt and pepper shakers, cat and cow figurines.  As time went on and I carried these dust magnets from apartment to apartment, I begin to question the purpose of this collecting madness.  I soon lost interest.  However, friends and relatives found me so easy to buy things for because they knew I'd love another ceramic owl or that fabulous beaded elephant they found in the Thailand airport.  You know, they would see something that I collected and buy me more.  In time, my sister who loves these things was the recipient of most of my treasures.

Of course, that was only half of it.  My volkswagon delighted in carrying around other forms of junk.  I was the "keeper of the flames" for anyone whose grandmother died.  Yes, I'll take those old lace doilies.  Oh please don't throw those tablecloths away.  Absolutely, I'd love that tea kettle, I don't care if the handle is broken.  You see, I accumulated whatever came into my line of vision.  If I saw something on the side of the road, I'd stuff it in the back seat of my VW or put it in the tiny trunk (they were in front, remember?)  I gave everything a second life. 

Too many years and too many moves later, I have tired of collections.  I don't even like to see other folks collections of doo-dads.  I hardly ever brake for garage sales anymore.  When folks call and tell me they have a bunch of stuff that Aunt Louise left them.  I say no, take it to Catholic Charities.  My accumulations were turning into clutter.

However, there are a few things I love.   I am passionate about old books.  The older the better and I don't care what shape they are in.  Once I have an old book, I go crazy carefully turning the pages, smelling that old book scent, finding tiny old script.  Reading is my passion.  Also, any kind of old postcards, letterheads, and yes, of course, old photographs are a visual delight.  I enjoy saving things that have a hands on history.  I have every letter anyone has written me.  Handwriting to me is an art form.  I am also crazy about art supplies and prefer to use old easels and old palettes once used by others.  I love to find old cameras, even ones that no longer work.  These may occupy space and even sound like a collection; however let me assure you they are my passions!

Are you a collector?  Do you accumulate way too many things?  Have you discovered the creative passions within yourself?  Salud.