When this all began I thought for sure it was only to be a phase. I gave it a week at best. How long could a rock possibly capture all his curiosity? He is extremely protective of his “rock collection”. Sometimes I will even find him sleeping with them, strewn about his bed in various odd containers. As his collection has grown he has taken to finding appropriate containers for his rocks to “live” in. Convenient for him maybe, not so much for me. For instance, the rocks “living” in the bathtub…not convenient. What about the rocks “living” in the coffee can? Okay, THAT I can live with, but would be happier if the coffee had been taken out of the can first. Oh well. We pick our battles. We are trying to be greener. How much greener can it get? Rock flavored coffee…probably not something you are likely to see at Starbucks anytime soon.

Though I do not understand his collection of rocks, I understand his need to collect. Rocks are what he loves, and therefore it seems only natural for him to collect them. What gets to me is that they aren’t the beautifully colored rocks that I see in most “rock collections”. They are all the exact same shade of dusty gray. All in all it isn’t really a rock collection at all. You see my oldest son collects gravel. Yes, I said gravel.

I too have several collections. Most of my collections revolve around antique or vintage pieces. Last night while perusing the aisles of antiquities galore I came across the newest addition to my vintage purse collection. I was so excited to find it! A beautifully intact 1960’s, hand woven, straw and raffia handbag. The colors have been preserved exquisitely. Even the rope handles are firmly in place, without fraying. Imagine my surprise when I proudly bring it out to show the family and the only declaration is “What is THAT?”

1960's summer handbag

So, it’s not a rock…but to me, it is perfect. I suppose it just goes to show that the old saying is true. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. I will continue to treasure hunt as long as I am able. And all along the way, for as long as my son collects them, I will pick up a piece of gravel just for him.

Happy Hunting to you all.

~K~