Fredrica’s mother-in-law, Bonnie
“C’mon Bonnie, let’s go out,” I say, as I clip on my earrings and get ready to leave the house. But Bonnie isn’t a person or a pet—she’s my late mother in law, who passed away over 25 years ago. Bonnie made those earrings by gluing clip-backs to two pewter-colored buttons. When I wear them, I feel that I am bringing the spirit of that practical, frugal and creative woman with me.
About ten years into my career as a college professor, I attended a remarkable session at an Association for Consumer Research conference. The presenters had embarked on a “Consumer Behavior Odyssey,” traveling the country and interviewing people about their possessions. We were treated to video excerpts of the interviews—from a Mickey Mouse memorabilia collector to a woman describing cherished furniture made from trees that had grown near the family home. Continue Reading →
