We beach-lovers usually wind up bringing bits of driftwood, shells and pebbles home. They are all pretty, but used to wind up sitting around in plastic bags which eventually got shifted into storage. Then, about 20 years ago, a better idea dawned on me.

Now, the finds that come home -- all of which I sign and annotate with the beach location and year -- go into a shadow frame. Artistically arranged and glued in place, they provide a nice reminder of a pleasant vacation and bring a little unique art to the kitchen, or room of choice.