KLAU88: You have most likely seen those small lapel pins (in bins or on turnstyle displays) in souvenier shops. They cost from $2 - $6 and up. The junkier the better. I started collecting them about 12 years ago because they are inexpensive, easy to find and small to pack. Sometimes I race thru airports on my conquest.

I bought several nice (gold toned wooden) frames at Michael's. They are actually large shadow boxes. Every time I have a new handful of pins I add them to my boxes. I have nearly completed two boxes with about 300 pins. It's a conversation piece and it makes me happy to look at them and recall many fabulous travels.

I think one of my most memorable aquisitions was in S. Dakota when I saw a pin that said: "I Climbed Harney's Peak". (Harney's peak is supposedly the tallest point between the Rockies and the Alps.) I wanted that pin! But my rigid rules don't allow a pin in the collection that isn't representative of something I have done. So, my family set out for the trek up Harney's Peak. The summitt was breathtaking and I earned the pin!

The whole family joins in to make sure I find just the right pin when we conquer a new place. Makes for fun and a purpose.

WOW! More than anyone ever wanted to know I am sure! And BTW: a Flyer Talk pin is proudly displayed in the middle of one of the boxes!

Now to add ORD to the collection!



[This message has been edited by paradocs (edited 05-27-2002).]