The magic of mugs

Mugs have a way of multiplying. A Secret Santa present, some swag from a trade show, a gag gift from your brother-in-law and suddenly your kitchen cupboard is overflowing.

The temptation is to edit by regifting and throwing away. But why not simply find pleasure in what is? There are worse things than too many options and mornings are more interesting when you have a plethora of colours and shapes to greet you.

In a recent Globe and Mail article, Jen Kirsch describes the ritual of selecting from her collection of over 50 mugs as a small but pivotal moment, a way to choose the type of day she wants to have in seemingly out-of-control times. (You'll need to register for free to read the piece.)

I'm totally behind the idea that little objects can have outsized effects on our day-to-day lives. One thing I'd stress is that there's no need to wait for gifts from loved ones in order to build your collection. Go out and find those weirdly powerful objects yourself.

When it comes to mugs, a good bet is a store that carries vintage design. This earthy set of four, complete with coffee pot, is currently available at Guff:

Another reliable option is Saudade at Dundas and Ossington, a shop that showcases beautiful home accessories from Portugal. You'll find a constantly changing selection of ceramics, including striking mugs, from the Casa Cubista line:

Main and Local's online souvenir shop is a great place to pick up some retro Canadiana. You'll find the CBC logo mug pictured above, as well as the following homage to a television show that shaped countless Canuck childhoods:

Turn to EQ3 for the classic Finnish flair of Marimekko tableware. The Rasymatto mug has a graphic punch that is sure to dispel morning yawns.

The point is: Be more than a passive mug recipient. Go ahead and fill your kitchen cupboard with fun. You'll nudge even the bleakest February morning towards delight.

Affectionately,