Do you have any collections?

Good morning… today’s prompt question is: “Do you have any collections?”

I love this question because the answer is absolutely yes — I have several collections. I’ve always been a lover of antiques. In many ways, I think I collect pieces of history because somewhere in my heart I still hold onto the dream of one day owning a grand old lady of a house, full of character, stories, and timeless beauty.

So yes, I collect antiques — much to my daughter’s dismay. She looks at some of my finds and probably wonders why I keep bringing “old things” home. But interestingly enough, my daughter-in-law absolutely loves them. I guess old souls recognize old souls.

I’m also a huge “shop Goodwill online” kind of girl. I’ve found some of the most beautiful treasures in places other people overlooked. But out of everything I collect, my favorite pieces are antique dishes, china, silverware, and serving pieces.

Ironically, my love for china truly deepened because of Bible study.

When I first started hosting women’s Bible study gatherings in my home, I planned on using paper plates. It seemed easier, practical, and less work. But I remember standing in the aisle looking at disposable dishes and feeling something in my spirit say, “My daughters deserve better than throwaway plates.”

And that moment changed something in me.

I already owned my blue willow dishes and my grandmother’s china, but after that, I began intentionally collecting more pieces. For every Bible study gathering, I would create a different table setting with beautiful dishes, silverware, and serving pieces. I would sit polishing silver by hand because to me, presentation mattered. Not out of vanity, but because I wanted the women sitting at my table to feel special, valued, and loved.

After everyone left, I would carefully hand wash every piece and restore it back to its place.

Some people may think they’re “just dishes,” but to me they became vessels for fellowship, healing, laughter, prayer, and connection.

That’s what I love most about old things — they carry warmth and tradition.

I use those same dishes now for family gatherings and holidays because there is something deeply comforting about a beautifully set table. It slows people down. It makes ordinary meals feel meaningful. It tells people, “You matter enough for me to prepare something beautiful for you.”

And what I’ve learned in my 60 years of living is this:
It does not take much to make people feel special.

A meal shared with family and friends.
A table prepared with care.
Good food.
Laughter echoing through a home.
Conversations that linger long after dessert.

Those are the things people remember.

So while I do love vintage clothing, antique furniture, and old treasures, my most cherished collection is my china — not because of its value, but because of the memories served on it.