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I have been to this store a few times before, but due to distance, I've never been able to visit frequently. But when I do get my lucky chance to be graced by it's presence, I never pass up an oppurtunity. This little shop in Balboa Park is my key to the world, because it brings the world to my finger tips. Ancient artifacts, fun collectables, interesting cultural practices are finally within walking distance, and I am blessed to be able to buy a piece of the world.
It was only footsteps away...the entrance to my favorite store of all time. I quickly walked up the steps of the entryway and opened the door, anxious about what my eyes would feast on. My eyes instantly darted from wall to wall, looking at all the precious items from around the world for sale. It was pure heaven...
As i walked to my right, I came upon little Russian dolls for sale, you know, the ones that go one inside of another. I saw the most gorgeous dolls sitting in the back, begging me to buy it and add to my collection. Sadly though as I saw the price, I had to walk away with a heavy heart. I next came to the Egyptian section of the store, filled with mini Egyptian Statues, pendants, and stones. I finger over each item, gazing into it's heart and hoping to someday call it my own. I slowly look away and go to the opposite wall, able to visit Africa in a few steps. I looked at the African Shawls, the cute dolls, and animal masks. I marvel at the beautiful artwork, the precise details on each and every artifact. I see beautiful bowls and dishes with paintings of elephants and zebras in the middle. I can't help but picture these tiny soap bowls in my bathroom, bringing the jungles of Africa to my home.
After visiting Africa, I went to Mexico, and found the scrumptious sugar skeleton heads used for day of the dead. I see adorable mexican dolls, dressed in the traditional mariachi dresses which beautiful make up painted upon their faces. I look down and see Irish leprechauns as well as lucky clovers from Ireland itself. I marvel at the different cultures and feel myself immerse in them all. Finally, after drifting off into cornbeef and cabbage land, I spot my favorite shelves, which bring me to Asia. The asian wall is full of asian delicacies, gorgeous vases, pots, lucky charms and more. I look at the folding fans in awe, and picture myself as a geisha. I hold the small asian coin purse in my hand and continue to open and close it. I see the small oriental lights at the bottom shelf, calling to me. The Chinese money envelopes hold me hostage as I look at the different textures and designs. Finally, after completing my journey through China and Japan, I find myself face to face with all the countries of the world. Hundreds of flags like the wall, calling to me at once. I look at them in hunger, hunger for a part of culture I miss so dearly...
As my trip draws to a near, I say goodbye to my countries, and head out the door. I smile at my mom for allowing me to visit such a wonderful place, and hope to return once again. While in the car, I look into my bag and finger over the small tokens I bought while at the store. I bought the Chinese Lantern Lights, which I plan to use in my living room. I also bought an Indian coin purse, fully equipped with a dreamcatcher on the front. I see my Chinese envelope, which I plan to use with my own daughter someday, and of couse, my China keychain, which I attached to my purse for good luck. Hopefully on my next trip to the Internation Gift Shop, I can bring more culture into my life, and emmerse myself in the wonders of the world.