Collections

I love me a collection. Through the years, I’ve come to love a seasonal collection the most because they are easier to display (and to not tire of as quickly) when you only pull it out for an upcoming holiday versus trying to find a year-round home for them within your space.

I collect all kinds and colors of pumpkins for fall, throw pillow covers for each season, thermoses for Christmas, and a Christmas ornament from each place I’ve visited. For non-seasonal ware - it’s Reader’s Digest Condensed books, suitcases (I only buy them if I find them for less than $20), and wooden boxes—ranging from soda crates to old dresser drawers to homemade organizing boxes our grandpas built to sort their tools.

Last week, I pulled out my Thermos (and lunchbox) collection, which I love to decorate with at Christmas. I mostly have the Thermos brand, but there are a couple that are knockoffs. I’ve been thinking about the reason I am so drawn to them. I think it is because they were born as simple unassuming beverage vessels to accompany someone to work, a picnic or on a road trip. They were the original YETI, without the price tag or the fluff (or so I presume). And I love that about them. I did a little research on the Thermos, because I love to know the history of old stuff… did you know that the word “Thermos” is derived from the Greek word “THÉRMĒ” which means “heat”? If you’re interested, read the rest of the history of the Thermos. I loved seeing the old mobile marketing unit they used!

Anyway, I also love these old Thermoses because just one by itself isn’t super magical (except maybe for that one blue striped guy on the left), but grouped together, they really shine. You’ll see many different colors and patterns blend to make one big happy Christmas kitchen fam. Here’s a look at last year and this year’s thermoses on display.

2019 Throwback

2020