Ballet Slippers & a Silver Tray...Totally Funful!

Do you ever have those things that catch your eye and you don't know why? You know...those things that let you know that they are special in some way...even if it's not apparent at the time. For some reason they speak to you, your heart, your spirit. 

My home seems to be filled with those things. Sometimes the love affair is short-lived and the items get passed on to people who can appreciate them. Other times it is a long-term relationship in which the special items and I have agreed that we cannot be parted. Now, don't get me wrong, I am not so attached to these things that I could not let them go if need be. With all the history, life, warmth, texture, and style they add to our home, why wouldn't I want them around as long as possible?

This vignette is in our dining room. It all started with my favorite beach cottage cabinet. Dare I tell you how much I paid for it? No, I won't do that to you. Let's just say it was a very, very, very good deal. {wink!} The second key piece is a salvaged chalkboard from a railroad station in Fessenden, ND. You've seen these two items before...and not too long ago...but I thought I'd show you some other fun things added to the space.

The solid silver tray is part of set that I pick up at an auction a couple years ago. Did I know anything about silver? Um...nope. The ballet slippers were found at a flea market not too long ago. Have I ever taken ballet? Again...no. So, why am I drawn to these two items that speak to me in some way? Is it the patina, the quality, the possible story behind them? Yes, yes, and yes...it is probably all three of these things...and more.

Last but not least...who would not be drawn to this great metal piece that conveys nothing but fun!? I finally googled to find out what was so special about "FUN-FUL." Any guesses what it is? I'll tell you! It is the step part of a playground ladder made by The FunFul Playground Equipment Line. You can see the 1920s catalog of their equipment on the Smithsonian site. You can also see an image of what a whole ladder full of these steps look like over on this Flickr site. Knowing the history of this piece makes it even more special than it was before.

Now, that truly is fun-ful!