Column welcomes your participation

Occasionally, in conversation, I’ll hear someone say they are not one of those people who like “things.” I usually hide a smile.

You don’t have to be a packrat to have a special affinity for an object or two. Even the most ardent minimalist has a favorite shirt or a beloved pair of boots.

And some of us really spread the love around.

For four years I’ve been filling this column with stories of antiques and collectibles and the people who hold them dear. Now we’re opening the door to a new opportunity.

From this point on, Treasure Hunting will be Treasured. A place to share your objects of affection. Your objects of desire.

Do you have a treasure? A collection of souvenir thimbles or a favorite coffee mug? What about that postcard pinned to the bulletin board over your desk at work?

I’d love to hear from you.

And, to get the party going, I’ll go first.

I don’t wear a lot of jewelry, but there are one or two pieces that I slip on almost every day. My pearls mean the most to me.

When I was 21 my mother called me into her room and presented me with her pearls. She never wore them and she knew I would.

And I do. Almost every day, after all these years, I still slip them around my neck before I leave the house.

When I reach up to touch them, I reconnect with memories that are strung together like beads.

They’re not priceless, they aren’t trendy. But they’re mine.

And they are treasured.