Blue Plate Special: Family Vacation Memories with a Side of Smiles

I sold this plate last week to someone living in Manitou Springs. It is kind of neat that it is finding its way back home. As I was packaging the plate up for it's trip, a smile came over me. You see, this plate reminded me of one of my own trips with my mom, dad, and little brother. It must of been in 1974 or 1975 as I can remember my brother being around 6-7 years old which would have made me 11 or 12 - funny that I can remember better what his age was than my own. We had made a car trip to Colorado and one of the places we stopped on this particular vacation was Cave of the Winds which is located near Manitou Springs. After visiting the caves, we spent the night in Manitou Springs. I don't remember the name of the motel but it sat near the edge of town and had a pool out front - I can still see the motel in my mind. I remember swimming in the pool with my dad and brother mostly because we hardly ever swam in the pools at the motels - I don't really know why except maybe because I don't swim that well or possibly because we had other things to do. It was a good memory and apparently, it is still with me to this day.

I was fortunate enough to have parents who thought taking vacations were important. They were always car trips and lasted at least a week. My dad even made a contraption for the back seat that fit over the floor board on one half (or maybe a little more) so that my brother could take a nap or play while we were driving across Kansas - it seemed like we were always driving across Kansas as we had to go through that state to get to the "good stuff". If we weren't staying with my parents friends in Denver, which wasn't that often, we stayed in a motel. Not a hotel - a motel.  I think that explains why I am intrigued by old motel signs - I just love the retro feel probably because they bring back happy thoughts. These were some of the best times I had with my family. I sometimes miss vacationing that way. Seems like we are in a hurry these days and don't take the time to enjoy this great country by car anymore.

I think this kind of memory is a sign of why I resell and thrift vintage souvenir items. Many of the plates and what-nots I sell are from places I have been and just seeing them brings me happiness. And some of the places that I haven't been I look up and find out more about taking a virtual vacation. It reminds me of simpler times. Good times. Not that today isn't a good time but it is in a different, more adult way (most of the time anyway). It allows me to appreciate my parents in a way I never did when I was growing up. Thank you, Mom & Dad!

So, what kind of memories do your thrifted items conjure up? Do you collect something because it reminds you of your childhood? I am so glad I found that Manitou Springs plate. It made my day.