When I graduated from highschool, my grandmother gave me a fancy little box. I guess it was supposed to be a jewelry box. Anyway, it is red metallic with ornate decorations and a red velvet lining. I was intrigued by it because it was fancy, rather useless and because I don't recall any other gift from that grandmother.

Over the years I have bought and received as gifts - unique and interesting boxes. They range in size from thimble-sized to boxes that are about as big as a pack of cigarettes.

Each box has a story, too. I have boxes that represent the country they came from - like my porcelain boxes from Europe. Kaiser porcelain, Villeroy & Boch, Wedgewood. I have olivewood from the Holy Land, marble, soapstone, Austrian crystal, russian lacquered enamel, etc. A favorite is a leather box that my mom used to hold her rosary.

I have pretty boxes that my husband and children bought me over the years that represent holidays and things that they like or that I like. For example, hearts for valentines, pretty florals for mother's day, a box with my favorite flowers (tulips) or cats.

I have boxes from friends that are very special to me. I mentioned once before that I like boxes and a PT buddy sent me a pretty paper mache kitty box. A gift swap friend sent me two stained glass boxes. I have little boxes that contain little figuerines like my sewing basket box with tiny yarn ball and spools of thread. I have a pewter cat shaped box that contains a little mouse and slice of cheese. There is another box that looks like silver that is decorated with a pair of real earrings and a pendant & chain.

This is an interesting thread!