Lighters & Ashtrays, Oh My!

It seems as though I have come down with a dreadful spring cold. :( Since two of my children had it, I guess I shouldn't feign surprise. As you well know, resting and relaxing aren't in my vocabulary. I wish I could cozy up and read a book..obviously, I am working on my post instead. And, to top it off, no matter how sick I am, I feel guilty for not getting in a run, even a small one.

So, here is my short tidbit of information for you today. First, are you sitting down? I realized I have started collecting vintage items related to smoking. I will say it again for you: I realized I have started collecting vintage items related to smoking. I started with a tiny, round, brass ashtray with brilliant turquoise stones around it. Next, a heavy glass lighter in the shape of a cube..kind of art deco. Then, another lighter made out of tortoiseshell glass. Three equals a collection in my book.

Recently, I read about someone else's collection of lighters, ashtrays, etc. and it got me to thinking. At one point, much style was devoted to these items. Think Mad Men. As smoking itself became taboo, the chic lighters and
ashtrays gave way to paper matches and public containers outside of buildings. Remember at Brooklyn Flea, how a vendor told us about the beautiful matchboxes in Italy that are like little works of art?  I would have liked to have some of those too for lighting my candles. Field trip to Italy perhaps?

Tricia