As one's hair changes from black/brown/(blue?) to gray ... ... does one begin to qualify? Or does the accumulated experience of multiple years of living tend to alleviate/mitigate the problem? If I could just remember in what way. ole joyful

I feel like I just don't know enough to know what "antiques" are worth. So my rule of thumb is to buy only for functional/decorative value. I never pay more than I would be willing to if the piece was a new knock off. I also don't buy antique furniture online because I want to see condition before I buy. My mom collects early to mid-1800s antiques. Her strategy has been to buy from more or less local and reputable dealers. Most of them have a policy that they will buy pieces back at the original sales price, which is a guarantee of a kind.

I am "one of those." My hearing is getting worse and worse, but the idea of a hearing aid, and the cost, have stopped me from considering it. I do wish the news announcers on TV would slow down and speak up (especially the women) but I guess that will never happen.

I bet your heart skipped a beat! When DH was in the hospital for some serious and expensive stuff for a few days and when it was time to check out they told him his insurance had expired. I spent a couple of hours on the phone getting it cleared up. What a mess.