BOUTIQUING WITH MARY LOU

Marion Pellicano Ambrose


I have a dear friend who has recently introduced me to the joy of “boutiquing”, as
she calls it. We have lunch and then go around checking out the “up scale” thrift stores!
Yes, I said “up scale”! In this difficult recession, so many people are in serious financial
straits. Have you notices these thrift shops popping up all over? And they seem to be
thriving! 

Just a few years ago you would never have caught me in such a place. I was a baby
boomer and you know we like all things new, shiny, and disposable! If it breaks, throw
it out and get a brand new one! I used disposable plates, napkins, and tablecloths,
disposable razors and paper towels. You name it; if it could be thrown away after 1 use
I had it! I felt I was deserving of this convenience because I worked a 40+ hour week,
took care of my husband and kids, my mother, my home, and our assortment of 4 legged
critters!


Then, something happened to me that I can’t explain. Maybe it’s because I’m a
history teacher and value lessons of the past. Maybe it’s because we lost my mom and
her “things” took on new meaning for me. Whatever it was, I found that I loved looking
at and collecting antiques and items with a history of their own. I now have a set of china
from 1929. I love to dream about the families that might have shared meals on them
during the wars and when my parents were just children. I cherish my grandmother’s rose
glass and the crystal cake dish that my mother chipped when she chased my Uncle Harry
around the table on his 12th birthday (about 80 years ago). I’ve started using dish towels
and real glasses and crystal, linen napkins and a reusable razor! (Forget the diapers; I will
NEVER switch from disposable!!)


My new love affair with things of the past is not an uncommon one. When my friend
Mary Lou and I go “boutiquing”, we meet so many different types of people, people
of all ages, from all walks of life. They chat and smile and admire our acquisitions and
sometimes tell stories about treasures they have found. I find that I look forward to these
treasure hunts!


I feel good that I’m more “green” these days and am pleasing myself while I help the
environment. But most of all, I feel good about saving little bits and pieces of the past,
and honoring the people who came before me. Think about that the next time you happen
to pass a thrift shop! Maybe there’s a treasure inside waiting for you! Maybe Mary Lou
and I will see you there!