Vase Hunting

I went on a search yesterday for a glass flower vase, and found so much more.

Has that ever happened to you? Looking for one thing and discovering treasures you didn’t know you needed or wanted? 

Seems as though that is common in my one-item pursuits. I start out with a picture of what I want firmly imprinted on my brain, only to be blasted with dozens of interesting objects that tickle my desire button.

I walked the almost deserted streets of San Miguel mid-morning meandering from shop to shop my facial mask firmly anchored over my ears, muffling my words many of the store personnel couldn’t understand.

My eyes roamed from side to side, up and down, seeking out a vessel to hold bouquets of blossoms filling my casita with exotic aromas and magical colors. One of the benefits of life in Mexico is the abundance of fresh flowers sold by street vendors on almost every corner, and at a price considered below cheap by most ex-pats.

As I strolled from shop to shop, not finding the perfect vase, I discovered other gems that pulled at my heart, or spoke to my sense of humor, or unearthed an emotional response yet unidentified.

For instance, a brightly painted metal hummingbird that could welcome visitors to my patio garden. Or wait, how about that colorful basket that would perk up the rather drab corner in my living room. And oh yes, the hand-woven rug would be perfect for my entryway.

The search continued, vendor after vendor, hour after hour of letting my senses float to the surface to feel the freedom of surprises.

That must be the pull of garage sales, estate sales, art exhibits, museum tours and perhaps shopping in general. For some excitement comes in a department store, others find heart jolts at a hardware store in the middle of the screwdriver section. It is amazing how the most mundane objects cry out wanting to satisfy an itch I didn’t know needed scratching.

As I turned the corner to head into a residential neighborhood I spotted a tiny glass shop, and immediately entered hoping I would find the object that began my day of exploring. And sure enough, there it was amidst the dusty glasses, bowls, and cups, waiting patiently for me to wander in, my eyes to widen with delight, and nod my head with the age-old ‘I’ll take it’ gesture that must bring joy, relief, and money to  shop owners world-wide.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

I traipsed home with my imperfect but cherished vase, and it sits ready to be filled with fresh cut flowers.

Oh, the simple joys of a day of shopping for a simple glass holder.