It is nice that you still have the complete set in the original box. Depending on the condition of each piece, your set sells for anywhere between 30 to 75 dollars. Doll and bear collectors love these little sets, as do collectors of childrens tea sets, such as the old Ohio Art tin sets, etc. Their size makes these easy to display.

DC, I realized the Bob's Red Mill pearls weren't going to be as large as the truly large pearls. But I thought that product would be an alternative to those who seemed to be having problems locating any larger pearls in the first place and also having problems preparing the imported ones correctly. Since Bob's claims their "Small Pearl Tapioca is used to make traditional old-fashioned tapioca pudding, an all-American favorite dessert.", I thought perhaps the preparation would be closer to what some people were remembering. I use instant tapioca about once a year when I make rhubarb sauce, and that's it. I know it's terrible to confess, but if I ever get the hankering for tapioca pudding, I just pick up some Kozy Shack from the grocery store -- usually a couple of times a year, especially when I'm sick. Your savory versions sound intriguing, though.

As gems go, pearls are relatively soft and for that reason, I do not recommend a pearl on a ring. I recommend traditional placements of pearls which are necklaces, ear rings, broaches and pins. In my opinion, pearls can be worn anytime, but most wearers wear them on special occasions, or in situations where the pearls can be protected - don't wear pearls while playing beach volley ball. Pearls are worn with black dresses because their appearance is super with black, but this is not the only time pearls are nice! Do pearls make you seem old - don't think so! In the past, pearls were worn more by 'the older' woman for two reason: She could finally afford them, and she would not as likely be engaged in atheletic activities. But a young whipper-snapper can sport a sting of pearls, too. For evidence of this, view jewelry ads and catalogs. You'll find pearls on the 25 yr old model. Re-stringing: When you have your pearls re-strung, discuss which technique is to be used. Specify knotting between each pearl, and the knot must be larger than the hole in the pearl. Obviously, knotting is to prevent loss of pearls in case the string breaks. At most, only one pearl may be lost.

Back online - started writing and my computer died - AGAIN! Anyway, as had started to say, you don't have to love her. It's just nice to have company. Sometimes the more mature relationships are just that - whatever you want it to be. You just appreciate and enjoy each other. HOWEVER, if she still doesn't know you aren't going anywhere, hmmmm.... She may do all of that naturing - cleaning, etc., as a way of justifying herself. She just may not have the self confidence to realize that the nurturing isn't what she is. That's a tough one - you want to hang in there and prove that's not the case, and help her to realize her worth. But also, why would someone want to have to walk on eggshells all the time; making sure she felt secure. Best wishes on that one!!