The Wish Dishes

A long time ago when I got married I got what I thought was a really dumb gift. Time sure changes your perspective.

I did all the regular bride stuff. I went off and registered for the gifts I wanted. I was very specific, especially when it came to dishes.

Due to several sets of grandparents down sizing and such we knew we would be receiving two sets of china, so there was no need to register for a new set. That meant that I was totally focused on every day dishes.

Yes, I know, it's just stuff. You have to remember this is before I really had a clue about life or had really even lived any life.

So I picked out the dishes I wanted. Plain white on top, or inside and the out side was deep navy blue. So the cups and bowls are white inside and beautiful blue on the outside. The plates are white on top where you put your food, but blue on the bottom. Personally, I loved them. Everyone thought they were dull.

Fast forward about 15 years. I still think they are the best dishes. They are still classic and crisp. At least, what's left of them is still classic, clean, crisp looking, minus all the chips and cracks. Never mind that I'm down to just a few bowls and all the plates are chipped. I'm not even sure that I have a single plate that is unchipped now.

So are you wondering? The gift I thought was stupid way back when? It was a second full set of dishes. Nothing I would ever have picked out for a pattern either. They are not a classic shape. They are not heavy, but thin. They have a modern art pattern around the rims of the plates and bowls. The cups are tiny. So tiny it's like drinking a half cup of coffee.

But you know what? Now that we've lived some life and life with kids and dogs at that, I have a lot of those left. Know what else? Every time I use them, I get compliments from people. They are eye catching and captivating. People enjoy them. Know what else? I've come to love them and think it was one of the most thoughtful gifts I've ever received.

So thoughtful in fact, that I've done this for friends at their weddings. I've completely ignored their wish lists and gone out to find them an interesting set of dishes that they really don't want. I'm hoping it will work out for them in a similar way 20 years down the road.