For no reason but that I really appreciate them right now, here are a few of my favorite things:

Semi-precious stones, jars of found bones and butterflies, crystals, boxes of “treasures” that I’ve collected over the years. If I were a dragon, this would be my hoard. As it is, I try to keep the treasures I collect small and few. I move often, and have made an art-form of paring down what I’m willing to take with me. These things, though they have no practical use, survived the cull because they are special to me.

Ultimately, all things are just things; but there are certain things whose beauty soothes us. Winter is cold, so I’m taking moments here and there to appreciate this kind of beauty.