New photo, lost the old link to the teapot shot. Sorry :)
This little glass teapot is a "genie lamp" of memories for my family. It contains a vast and wide ocean of history...it is no longer allowed on the tree, it must be protected. It travelled to Canada in the 60's with my in-laws when they emigrated here from the south of England. We miss them all the time but particularly when Christmas time arrives, as they instilled so many traditions in us. We practice those traditions but somehow {and I know why} they just aren't the same.
One of my favourite Christmas movie scenes of all time, is Clark Griswold in the attic. He stumbles upon his own veritable genie lamp of memories, and the hilarity ensues.
On gratitude:
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” St. Augustine
"All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” Martin Buber
“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” Jawaharlal Nehru
Today's gratitude is travel centered. I chose three quotes I love to sum up my feelings for the "experience" of seeing the world.
To journey out and see things, to glean experiences- that is to me what riches and wealth may be to another. I seek the divine experience. I have only just begun my life of travelling. Where I am in life now allows for travel the odd time; the kids are older, the business can run without me temporarily, whenever I shop for groceries or gas I am accumulating precious flight miles, I bargain hunt on my computer for deals on rentals, and other things. I make it happen by hook or by crook. Thank goodness my husband-to-be feels the same way I do. I don't think I'd be happy to go trotting off without him. We are well matched in this arena {and others, but that I'll save for our wedding posts}.
We booked our tickets to Jordan last night! {Thanks to those amazing miles we accumulated.} I have to tell you, I feel like a kid waiting for Santa. I shall now go and polish up my camera and wait. Patiently. {Well no, not quite patiently.}
xo
Whether it’s a foreign capital, or the little town a stone’s throw from home, there’s something about travel, beyond its cultural and anthropological interest, that seems akin to hope. A sense of wonder. An intimation of undiscovered possibilities.
Some objects can open a door to another kind of travel: into the past, summed and made magically present, tangible, in its thingness.
You’re someone, I know from experience, who travels well. Unassuming, curious, hospitable. They’re lucky to have you.
Posted by: Jeaux | December 08, 2009 at 09:11 AM
WoW!
U're going to Jordan!
I am sure we will be treated to some marvellous photos.
Travel even if it is to the next town is such an eye opening experience. Loved this picture you have posted here too.
Have a great trip.
Posted by: Preeti Shenoy | December 08, 2009 at 10:50 AM
Congratulations on booking those tickets, Gillian! I am vicariously thrilled for you, and I feel exactly the same way about travel. One's life is forever transformed by it, one's eyes opened, and one's views widened.
Your genie lamp is simply perfect. xoxo Gigi
Posted by: Gigi | December 08, 2009 at 11:03 AM
Very nice quotes and also how wonderful that travel is a part of your life. Enjoy yourself while you can.
Posted by: gloria | December 08, 2009 at 01:18 PM
I'm glad you inherited our itchy feet!
I think we must have gypsy blood somewhere in the family!
I spotted the little teapot the other day, and immediately thought of Betty..xox
hugs
Mum
xo
Posted by: Sheila | December 08, 2009 at 04:08 PM
OMG, to Jordan?? Chica, you're exploring every corner of the world...and yes, take that camera with you. I want to live vicariously through you, if only in still shots.
Love the glass teapot photo and story behind it. Beautiful. :)
Posted by: Ily | December 08, 2009 at 10:57 PM
I know you will have a wonderful time in Jordan. I wish I could go too.
Love the Christmas ornament, what a treasure.
Posted by: Marilyn | December 09, 2009 at 01:36 PM
Oh my. You flatter me. I'm not deserving of this. :)
You saw me freakout at the airline counter, yet you overlook these things. You are truly a gentleman. Truly. xoxo
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | December 09, 2009 at 11:56 PM