Dear Friends and Readers,

We collect many things during our lives. Some collections are intentional and some just seem to happen.  Most of us have a spare bedroom/garage/attic stuffed with accumulated possessions. The problem is, sometimes we can’t be sure which are trash and which are treasures.

I’ve become the guardian of three generations of family history. When my mom moved to an assisted care facility, I cleaned out the house she lived in for over thirty years. Although I held yard sales and donated truckloads to charity, there were many items I couldn’t bear to part with -- and others I gave away, only to regret the decision later.

Some of the things I wish I’d kept are: Mom’s red and white 1950s cowboy boots; my daughter’s Barbie 1957 Chevy Bel-Air Convertible; and my album collection.

I recently redecorated my living room in a style I’m calling Vintage Western. It’s a mixture of family heirlooms, thrift shop finds, photos, arts and crafts, and stuff I’ve picked up over the years.  To say it’s eclectic would be an understatement, but I look around and see happy memories.

My decorating makeover began during a recent trip to Prescott, Arizona. My traveling companion was busy during the days so I hooked up with Cindy from Connecticut (Hi, Cindy!) and we hit Whisky Row.

Sound like two wild and crazy gals out on the town? We did visit the historic Palace Bar, but I have to confess, we were more interested in the art galleries and souvenir shops. The area around Courthouse Square in Prescott is a treasure-trove of all things western. Cindy and I shopped ‘til we dropped on Friday and Saturday. Sunday morning I dragged my friend back downtown for a final walk through.

When I arrived home and hung my artwork, a new look seemed to be emerging. I spent the next two weeks going through boxes in the garage, prowling thrift shops and trying out pieces I already owned. Finally, it all came together. 

Our sense of style evolves over the years, like stories evolve and life evolves. I hope there are many more books and thrift shops in my future. And I wish everyone reading this a life filled with plans, dreams and wonderful surprises.

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