Definitions of tchotchke. (Yiddish) an inexpensive showy trinket. synonyms: chachka, tsatske, tshatshke. type of: collectable, collectible. things considered to be worth collecting (not necessarily valuable or antique

I just brought out the triple frog vase to celebrate spring or to pretend that we have a spring in Florida or will ever have a spring. Anyway, this vase belonged to my mom …Of course.

The cheerful vase was “discovered “ by mom during her weekly treasure hunt at the local thrift store. Three joyous frogs, their arms wrapped around each other’s shoulders in camaraderie…these guys perfectly reflect my mother’s essence. Mom acted like she’d found gold as she unwrapped and presented her treasure. Like she’d found the proverbial “glass slipper in a Payless Store.” (A Hans original simile)

Mom grew up during the depression and was an Army wife for 30 years so she was not materialistic. But boy did she love dish ware… Whimsical, weird, colorful…all the variety and such low prices!

After mom and dad both died, I didn’t take much from their home. While every item she owned was so dear and memory-filled for my mother, I suffered no such emotional ties. But these frogs spoke to me and here we are.

It makes me think of giving some of my tchotchkes to appreciative loved ones. A way to be present …even just a little bit.

The elusive search for effective pain control continues. The RSO helped a lot Thursday and Friday mornings but inevitably caused me to crash By mid afternoon of each day, I had morphed into a immobile glob confined to the couch or bed. Worse yet, the pain returned with a vengeance. The goal is to stay ahead of the pain and rededicate BEFORE the pain explodes but how do I determine the proper intervals unless I experiment…..such a quandary! So today is back to hydrocodone minus Tylenol. I’m on dose two which is keeping the pain at bay so far. And yes, I promise to call a pain management resource on Monday.

Adorable news of the day.

Kittens! These three rascals were surrendered to All Kitty Korner along with their friendly and beautiful mom and 7 other kittens. I am fostering 3 now and will take on 2 more in a few days. Happily, the boys are well adjusted and healthy. Baxter is thrilled to have his nanny job restored.