“I think, therefore I am.” (Rene Descartes)
Well, maybe that worked for Descartes, but for me it’s: “I shop, therefore I am.” (Hey, I’m a Flight Attendant! It’s part of what we do.)
For me, it’s not about the need to conspicuously over-consume. Instead, it’s a way to take part of my journey home with me.
Often, in my travels, I find some unique shops, interesting galleries, or have an opportunity to visit some of my favorite stores. Purchases just seem to have a way of jumping into my hands.
Today, as I walked around my home, I looked at treasures collected over a lifetime of travel: A mola from Panama, a painting from Palm Springs, a jewelry box from Mexico, a piece of jewelry from Columbia, my favorite pair of jeans from Manhattan. Each of these items brings beauty, joy, pleasure, and/or fun to my life. And each of the items brings back memories — memories of a journey, an adventure, and the people with whom I shared those experiences.
Today’s shopping suggestion is one I heard about from another Flight Attendant:
SpoonFed Art is the brainchild and creative outlet for Los Angeles designer, Karin Collins. As part of her treatment for an eating disorder, Karin began making one-of-a-kind pendants out of spoons. When she started receiving compliments for her creations, she realized that what began as therapy was blossoming into a business.
The designs can be seen at a few boutiques in the Los Angeles area, and Karin has recently been getting some great national press. She has not turned her back on the pain from which her creativity sprang, and her business is a member of the NEDA, the National Eating Disorder Association.
I found the designs to be both lovely and whimsical, and eventually chose the Purple Rose of Cairo. The designs change frequently, so if you don’t see something you like the first visit, check back again.
I love the opportunity to find something unique for myself, while at the same time encouraging a small business person and supporting a good cause.
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