THE KALEIDOSCOPE: a treasure waiting to be rediscovered

One of my favorite things to do is browse through antique and consignment shops. My style is a mix of old and new.  Furniture, decorative accessories, clothes, etc., I love “things” with character; old treasures waiting to be rediscovered in a modern world. I admire the “mix” of the old, and the new, and the challenge of making them “flow”. Therefore, occasionally I will take the time to stop by and meander through, what may seem like junk stores to some, but for the treasure hunter, well...we know there are treasures just waiting to be rediscovered. 

Recently, as I was browsing through a few of my favorite shops in downtown Frederick, MD, I found the most awesome treasure; a kaleidoscope. You should understand, kaleidoscopes are my ALL TIME FAVORITE toy, then you can imagine my excitement as I spotted this "treasure" sitting on the shelf. As I examined this particular kaleidoscope, I have to tell you reader, my excitement grew as I noticed the shiny brass on the eye piece was worn a little dull, as was the brass surrounding the color wheels at the other end.  It was evident this kaleidoscope had been thoroughly enjoyed by its previous owner. I felt a connection to this person, I will never know. Of course I bought this special treasure; a beautiful treasure waiting to be rediscovered by another. On that day, I was thankful it was me.

On Christmas of 2009, I gave my children kaleidoscopes as gifts. These were not expensive kaleidoscopes, but the kind you may find in any toy shop. I included a note with my special gift to them that year, and thought I would share with you.

To My Dearest Children,

The Kaleidoscope:

This is my ALL TIME FAVORITE toy and I wanted to share it with each of you.  Ahhhh, the beauty of the colors; it brings me so much peace and joy to sit and watch the colors mingle, change, blend together, then burst into an explosion of beauty with one little turn. When the kaleidoscope is idle, it sits and waits, like a new adventure or discovery just waiting to be explored, with a new found gift of beauty to be treasured every time you look inside. My children, remember this always, the greatest pleasures can come in the smallest things. You are young, but life moves fast, so as you journey along through the path of life, stop and take the time to enjoy the simple beauty in all things.

With LOVE from Mom
12-25-2009