It’s vacation time and families everywhere are “getting away”
for a week-end or longer. Many go to a waterfront get-a-way so
that they can enjoy hot, soft sand, cool breezes, and water
activities. There is so much for every age-group to do when it
comes to oceans, lakes, or smaller water areas. If you are into
surfing, fishing, or water-skiing then these are perfect
destinations. When you have children with your group, what can
they do to pass the time when the water gets a little too
chilled, just after mealtime, or when they need a quiet time
from all the activity?
Searching for seashells or agates is a family affair. Letting
your children discover the uniqueness in each “find” and letting
them enjoy the pleasure of a “treasure” puts smiles on
everyone’s face. You bag up your shells or agates and then when
you get home, they are usually put in a jar or a can and
shelved. Why not use your found items and decorate your home
with them, especially your child’s room?
Picture frames are about the easiest way to remind everyone of
the fun and enjoyment you had on your trek to the seashore. They
can be as elaborate as you like, or as simple as placing a few
“favorites” on the edges of a pre-made frame and highlighting a
photograph. Those with wonderful color hues or very unusual
shapes or textures work best. Framing a small bathroom mirror,
or dresser accent is also a fine way to display nature’s works
of art. If you have a jewelry box or any small decorative chest,
add shells and give it new life. Placing a shelf in your child’s
room high enough not to create a safety hazard, and placing
large starfish or horns will give them many moments of
day-dreaming and reflection. Just adding a few new shells to
your home aquarium or goldfish bowl will give it very special
meaning and a personalization.
In your family room or living area, try drilling a small hole in
some very charming shells and string them on fine fishing line.
These can be used as tie-backs for draperies or curtains, or as
a very unique valance. Just decoratively hand them from a
curtain rod and let the sunlight play wonders with the
pearl-like qualities many shells have. You can also use an ice
bucket and fill it to overflowing with large shells that beckon
glances and give food for conversations. Add shells to
candlestick holders, or flower vases.
In a bathroom, highlight a soap dish or other bathroom ornament
with a few shells. Place very small ones in a crystal clear vase
and then add your flowers. The water won’t do them any harm and
they add exciting highlights to your blooms.
However you decide to use your seashells, let your entire family
join in the fun. There will be laughter, after-vacation fun and
memories. Everyone will have a different slant on how to use
them, but never let these jewels of the sea be hidden in a
drawer or box. They are too lovely and yes, practical, to be
forgotten.
If you still have shells leftover, it’s not too early to start
thinking about holiday gifts. I’m sure anyone would be delighted
with a gift that brings the sea right into their home,
especially if they can’t get away or get to a seashore. Adding
to the gift, the knowledge that it took thought and effort to
create a one-of-a-kind gift, just makes it more of a cherished
memento. Seashells that you find on beaches or seashores are a
gift from Nature to family, friends, and your home. ENJOY!
©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 July
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