I love lions. Maybe it is because I am a Leo or maybe just because they are so beautiful, powerful and, of course, king of the forest. Through the years I have collected several lions including a life-size lion made from a solid piece of wood that I purchased from Fran Yates Antiques in Mt. Vernon, Texas. This lion keeps a watchful eye over my dining room. Speaking of eyes, his are blue and yellow marbles.

When I was alumni director at a university which had lions as the mascot, I took the life-size lion to my office. It scared many people who walked by, because it looks so real.

My collection includes figurines, jewelry, a wooden purse, paintings, statues, a step stool, desk accessories, socks, wine cork, boxes, and stuffed animals. My figures and statues are wooden, cement, pottery, silver, bronze, metal, and crystal. It started many years ago when I was a little girl. I think my first lion was given to me by my uncle Pizzini and his wife Carol. I have it in my office. It is a small green lion stepstool with a black rope tail. Pull the tail and a drawer comes out (I used to hide all my treasures there). It is just about the right height for a small child to sit on. Now it makes a perfect decoration or a place for a customer to set their cold drink.

My lion jewelry includes pewter as well as sterling silver necklaces, silver bracelets, and a gold and sapphire lapel pin. They are fun reminders of what makes me happy…looking at lions.

My preferred lions are useful, such as the lion purse or letter opener that have practical uses. I enjoy everyday items that express my love of lions.

Someday I would love to have a set of silverware by Wallace in the Lion pattern, but until then, I just daydream.  All of the lions I have collected are small in value, but big in appeal, at least to me.

I enjoyed sharing my collection with you, and I hope you enjoyed the tour. What do you enjoy collecting?  My sister loves elephants.  Whatever it is, I hope it brings you joy.  I am not lion when I say I love collecting!