I'm in the rewarding business of selling fun stuff from our childhood over the Internet. I actively search to regain the pieces our clean-crazy moms threw out because "You've outgrown this!" Never asking more than, say, 20 or 30 times whether we'll be removing that set of trains or Barbie Doll Collection from up in the rafters!
We tell Mom, "I'll be there, really...the next time I come to visit I'll remove all the stuff I still want to keep." Well, we never go to pick it up, so what does she do? She finally throws that cluttering, junky, old dusty mess in the trash. Including, the baseball cards!!
This phenomenon has occurred for decades. That favorite picture book, stuffed dog or Superman Comic is gone forever!
Well, that used to be the case. But, the Internet has opened up a whole new venue for replacing those treasures long lost or forgotten!
With easy access to tens of thousands of stores, auctions and collectors, a replacement CAN be found and cherished and taken care of for the next generation, and possibly in better condition than the one you loved so hard when you were a little shorter.
Use Photos to Track Down Those Long-Lost Toys
People are now using their childhood photos containing their cherished toys and starting the search. Part of the search is finding the photos. I myself have replaced many of the Toy Matchbox Cars that as a child I had buried in the sand pile, dropped in the heater grates or simply flushed down the toilet. (Dad was always getting a new plunger.)
And you can also conduct a surprise search for your loved ones. There are so many people that are difficult to buy for. Think of the joy when you find something that you know they really like. And imagine their surprise.
This is where photos can really help; maybe you don't know the name of the toy your spouse is clutching in their hands, but scan in a photo and ask around - someone will be able to identify it for you. Pull out the old photo albums and bring back a piece of someone's childhood. It is a guaranteed tear-jerker. I have a hundred stories of almost unbelievable nostalgic feelings brought back. Such pleasure has been created between all kinds of people and generations. This fun can go on for years...creativity making each find a new adventure.
The Internet has made this journey a more realistic one with electronic photos and detail never before at our fingertips. The Internet Auctions are a testament to the importance of grabbing a bit of our past to have and to hold from this day forward. We hope you'll begin a wonderful and rewarding search for a piece that can truly make someone happy...including yourself!
Steves Collectibles Can Help
I enjoy my job every day for just the reasons discussed. You can come and browse my site at http://www.stevescollectibles.com. I have many categories, and I just added a text-only catalog. We have a new live help desk at http://www.stevescollectibles.com/helpdesk.htm. You may also email me with questions, though I do NOT provide appraisals.
I can help locate children's books (especially) almost immediately, I can help with vintage gift ideas, etc. We also have many shopping links on our site, and if you don't find what you are looking for, ask us! (I usually recommend eBay for a good search and learning experience as well.)
Enjoy your day and fulfill your Nostalgic Side!
NOTE: You can post a picture on the AuctionBytes.com Message Board and see if anyone can identify the toy from your childhood, or see if anyone has one to sell! (http://www.auctionbytes.com/bin/messagebbs/view.pl)
