Pass the Collection Plate!

Collections can be tricky things. They can quickly turn from a harmless hobby to a full-blown obsession and the next thing you know you're being featured on the latest episode of "Hoarders." Collections are a problem not only for the collector but for the collector's friends and family, who are always wanting to help out by adding to your collection. One thing leads to another, and, before you know it, your whole house has been taken over by meaningless, dust-collecting pig-themed knick knacks.

So to avoid this pitfall, I have a rule about collecting stuff (and life in general): Do it in moderation and try give it a purpose. I have enough of my mom in me to harbor an extreme dislike for stuff that has no purpose. (My favorite quote from my mom in this regard: "I've been happily married for 50 years and I've YET to find a purpose for a man!) But I digress...

I admit I collect a few things..in moderation and with purpose. I love McCoy and similar-era dime-store pottery in my favorite pastel shades. I collect vintage tablecloths and linens. I love old stoneware platters with little floral patterns. Of course I collect seashells and sea glass. (And some would say I'm a cat collector, too.) But here's the thing about my collections...I USE them! They aren't just knick-knacks collecting dust in a curio cabinet or packed away in bubble wrap in a closet. I use my vintage tablecloths to protect my tin-top kitchen table. I put seashells in my McCoy planters and fresh flowers in the vases (see the photos above). Seashells make great ashtrays in a pinch. I eat dinner on my lovely floral plates. If I break one, I don't get too upset. That's just life...and these things I collect aren't priceless treasures. They are just stuff I buy because I like the way they look and function in my house.

And, hey, like Mom says, if you're gonna be in my house, you better make yourself useful! Now, pass me my vintage plate...I'm gettin' ready to load it up with some macaroni and cheese.