Mudlarking the River Thames - A Beautiful Thames Find tinged with Pain & Sadness

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Hi Everyone, thank you for watching this video. I hope you enjoy it. One of the aims of my channel is to share the stories of objects found in the River Thames, and also to provide a platform for other mudlarks/artists/people to do the same. Every object that comes out of the river has a history. I try to unlock the secrets and mysteries behind them. I shall continue to stay true to my mission by bringing my viewers diverse and interesting stories which inspire, inform and enlighten me - and which hopefully can do the same for them. Nicola

[@lupavolante]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHexY4qlqZyJidE

[@lobedoc]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mminlX5tqbSAa6c That is a Hugarian something. :D "BP." is the acronym for BudaPest, "székesfőváros" means "capital city". Maybe it's a pocket watch chain pendant from 1800's year.

[@lobedoc]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mminlX5tqbSAa6c I suppose it's a mini brass Quran holder. It still exists nowdays. The paper washed away during time.

[@lizgatley6368]

Hi I was wondering if the mystery object was the fastening of a purse

[@PeggyParrish-sg1eu]

Fran is one of the loveliest people I've met here on youtube thru your channel Nicola!! You are such a fabulous friend and person!! Thank you for taking us on so many wonderful adventures with you and introducing us to such captivating people!!! You're the best!!❤❤❤

[@padraicodomhnall2760]

Thank you a great mudlark and for introducing us to Fran. It was quite an education to learn about her bead, and the story behind it made my heart sink. The coins and seals were fascinating, but the little decorative book was particularly special. Thank you ladies.

[@oblomovtheunknown]

The hinged book locket looks best with its patina - gives it the sense of age and is more aesthetically pleasing :-) Loved Fran's story, and love that Mudlarking is so inclusive reaching out to so many interesting people - we can all learn from each other and the Thames is liquid histories :-). Thanks again for an enjoyable vlog.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Stephen

[@claremarley9181]

You've saved me writing a answer Stephen.

[@cindynicholas1615]

I’m probably in the minority, but I think you should clean and polish the book locket. It’s sad to think it’s purpose and beauty has been taken from it. It deserves to be restored and loved. Hope you have a great week! 😊😊

[@MoggiesTen]

I concur. Restore the locket!

[@judyobrien8293]

I agree

[@carolinejoss1453]

Be careful, it looks like gilt on base metal and would be ruined if the gilt was polished off.

[@michaelagampe7685]

I think its a small box for a Rosario ( know only the german word: Rosenkranz) catholics used to pray with it. And they kept it in such miniature bibles. 🤔

[@dr_steve]

Thank you so much for introducing us to Fran, Nic! She is charming and I really appreciate her story about the slave bead. Thank you, too, for recognizing Black History Month and sharing your stories. Loved that Bell Tavern trader's token and the backstory. BTW, that red blouse is a great color for you. Please stay safe, Nic!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Steve! I really appreciate your support and encouraging and kind comments. Keep them coming! xx

[@NorthernMudlarks]

Love all the finds. The bead is amazing in it's beauty and it's poignant history - thank you Fran for sharing it with us. The history we're not taught in schools needs to be told! The book locket is also lovely. Purists may say it shouldn't be touched, but it wasn't meant to be in that state and some careful cleaning and restoration would bring back so we can glimpse its former beauty xx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Gail and Alex xx

[@deidrecruickshank7975]

Hi Nicola, the wee book is a locket, and yes photographs were usually kept in the wee frames. My mum had something very similar, which I think she said she got on her 21st birthday. It would have been bought at a jewellers. She would be 89 now. Listening to Fran, I felt was a privilege and I learned a lot, thank you noth for the great video. Xx from NZ.

[@1961-v9k]

I was born in the 60s and can vaguely remember seeing those mini book lockets around people’s necks and in jewellery shops.

[@arlenewitt248]

It is also a piece worn on a charm bracelet. What is the metal? 14k, gold plated? Etc.

[@AlterMann57]

You must invite Fran on future mudlarking excursions, she is very like an archaeologist with the way she looks for tiny items as in the various ancient hand made pins and needles, she's a lovely lady, thank you ever so much for including her in this excursion.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you James

[@terriemery5687]

Thank you Fran and Nicola. All of our history should be taught. So that the horrendous behaviours are NEVER repeated

[@KitKatToeBeans]

You do realize modern day slavery still exists, right?

[@wendyspicer8588]

I am really glad that Fran had the opportunity to express her grief. With out the sharing, the cruelty of the past will not be told and the healing can never begin. I have lived in America for half my life and the healing has hardly begun here. I hope Britain is further along in the process.

[@amandapittar9398]

I’m Scottish. I was in secondary school in the 1970s and we learned all about the slave trade in history. The Triangle Trade. We learned about how slaves were “stolen” from their homes, loaded onto ships the unbelievable suffering they endured, how they were distributed throughout the West Indies and the southern states. The cotton and sugar that came back to Bristol & Liverpool & Glasgow. Then the effects that had on those Merchant cities. It HORRIFYIFIED the students in the class, every single one. Remember that Scotland had a different education system to England. They did not shy away from unpleasant subjects - we were also taught about the Highland Clearances. Not something English students are taught about either eh? Ah well.love your videos. Always excellent. Love your new red top too. 🌟☺️🌟

[@SL-sd3sg]

We learnt about the slave trade too in the uk, Early 70s. I felt the injustice of it as a young child.

[@clockwork9827]

we learned about the Triangle Trade too, but somehow the part that slave trade played was omitted . this video gives me a better understanding of the cost of accumulating capital

[@whollyspokes3645]

Prof Tony Martin is the only man to tell the truth about the slav trade

[@Skavillekrew1966]

It's funny how we're not taught about the Slavery The Romans & Vikings did in this country or The Algerians back in the 16th century maybe check out the term White Gold. It's quite interesting that the biggest of all Slave Traders was the Ashanti Tribe, Very much part of History but it's never taught wonder what that is?

[@peggygraham6129]

You were fortunate. My husband went to school in the 1940s and 1950s in Scotland.He said he was seldom taught any Scottish history.It was all about the glories of the Empire and colonies in Africa.He knew more about "Rhodesia" than Scotland.

[@TheFiown]

Dear Nicola, you are our anchor in this mad world, always fun, always happy with the simple things in life, thank you, hugs xxxx

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you!

[@holbriland6584]

Fran's bead is beautiful. Incredible how something so small has such a big story. I've learned so much watching your channel and the channels of other mudlarks.

[@randallsmerna384]

I have to say, that I really love that you superimpose the cleaned item on the screen at the time that you find it. That is super cool, and very smart!

[@karenpelletier5707]

Thank you for introducing us to Fran! Her story of the bead and her history are touching and should not be forgotten or glossed over in schools. Your mourning book charm is a neat find. It probably had a lock of the deceased' s hair in it. I had to laugh when the wave caught you from behind, that's happened to me more than once!😂

[@jacquelinemeow5774]

First...as always I am transported with your tales of the past. Riveting. I am eternally grateful to my algorithm for leading me to your channel. Dearest Fran, I am profoundly moved by that single bead in the palm of your hand. The thought that a human being could be potentially traded for a bead or a cask of rum is beyond my realm of conception. I want you to know that my heart aches.❤

[@dmcdaniel2009]

It is amazing how well the seals were made that they survive the constant washing of the ol' River Thames, and show the skill of the maker ! Thanks for sharing the adventure Fran and Nicola ! I apreciate all your effortsand love of Heritage and History. ~:)

[@toivotaisto2537]

Very touching to hear Fran’s story about the bead. Brought tears to my eyes.

[@randywoodworth4022]

Providing a platform for stories that otherwise would not be told. Just one of the ways you brighten my Sundays. Thank you and love from America

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Randy

[@lindagomez3114]

Nicola you are AWESOME! Thank you Fran and Hello!!!! I get so excited. The book looks like miniature Bible and it looks like it's Gold. Have it cleaned up and leave it be.

[@iamshotty]

Beautiful finds as always Nicola, especially that stunning little book - it so deserves to be restored and brought back to life. LOVE it xx Teresa❤🇦🇺

[@christineberry3076]

Might be good to see if it could be brought back! Sweet find!

[@christineberry3076]

Blacksmith? Saddle maker? lol

[@luana1600]

This was such an amazing video! Fran's slave bead is beautiful, yet the history behind it is more than tragic. I really really love this video. Thank you Nicola, thank you Fran for sharing. 💚🌺

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you so much Luana xx

[@randomvintagefilm273]

Really enjoyed meeting Fran with her personal perspective on British history. For her to find that bead is amazing! For your part Nic, I was thrilled to see that little book. If I had been with you, I would have been begging on my dirty knees lol.

[@pato9523]

Hola Nicola, me encantan tus videos, por que encuentras objetos muy historicos y hermosos. Muchas gracias. Recibe un fuerte abrazo de Carmen. Desde México. 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽🇲🇽

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you very much x

[@volktales7005]

Always enjoy what you do and how you present it. A moving find for Fran that should make all of us think about our past and how things could still improve in many parts of the globe. Keep up the great explorations and explanations!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you

[@maggie_oshea]

I’d love to see the little book restored. It’s beautiful and deserves to be loved again. Glad you found it. Frans talk was lovely. Her emotional response to the trade bead was very obvious.

[@MissTarotLady]

Lovely video, both for caring about Black history and your friend Fran but the excellent work you do in bringing the history of the treasures the Thames brings to us. 😊😊

[@avalonjuice8613]

Lovely as always! Great to 'meet' you Fran. The information about the trade bead was really good. These things should be still talked about as everyone needs to know about those dreadful times. They cannot be left in the past. We need to know to guarantee it will never happen again.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you

[@hildahilpert5018]

Yes, we can't change what happend, but we all need to work together to prevent such things from happening.So nice to meet Fran and hear her story. Unfortunately , This sort of thing still goes on today with human trafficing, only it's not beads but cash.We all have to help each other out, and we can change things for the victims.

[@ruthm4749]

I really enjoy the history that goes with all the lovelies you find. Very nice to meet you Fran.

[@Mountlougallops]

You make a good team. You both had a great day. Thanks for introducing us to Fran. And thanks Fran for sharing your trade bead and it’s meaning. We all need to know the truth and to learn from it.

[@mrbrownbagable]

Very nice video Nichole you’ve gone beyond the average mudlarking video. Thank you so much for Fran “what a beautiful person she is. Thanks again.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Steve x

[@chriswhelan3412]

I'm happy to hear that you've started the Thames Charity Box for your modern coins.

[@dianner7573]

Could the French coins go into the box too?

[@fliconmigo]

@@dianner7573 the use euros in France so the French coins are out of circulation and no longer have value.

[@mirkatu3249]

Thank you Nicola and Fran for keeping history real.

[@kerrypitt9789]

Obviously I do not watch enough of Fran! I have to think that some of the best "finds," on the Thames are you and the other Lady Larkers.. When I worked out of town in the Canadian Oilpatch, we used seals much like the ones you are always finding!! Have you ever thought of doing a wine bottle with your seals attached to it with an inert putty? In early America they were used as display items and it seems to me Drew Prichard finds the odd one in the UK, they are a beautiful way to store your keepsakes. I always love your shows, you really appeal to my style of searching and the little items I enjoy finding. How is your Son doing with the music industry? I have searched out a little of their music and while I enjoy it, I am always impressed with his humility. You raised a good man there!

[@deborahbryant7530]

Wonderful video Nicola !!! Your friend Fran is a lovely person !!! Beautiful bead she found on the River Thames & what it means to her. Nice finds of the tiny seals & pins & token !!! Love the little locket book, I have one but a little bigger than yours & it's on a long chain. I would shine it up or maybe get someone that could take it apart & fix it back to it's full glory to where it can open & close again. It's beautiful even like it is !!! ❤️🙂🧿

[@christinechapdelaine7104]

Thank you so much for such a great outing. I really enjoyed the presence of Fran. Congratulations on the teeny book find. Leave it for the time being and revisit it in a few weeks/ months.

[@julieorr8098]

So much of Black History is untold -I had no idea about these trade beads! Nice to have your friends on the channel with you Nicola

[@KitKatToeBeans]

Beads were used as currency throughout the world. Nothing says THAT bead was ever used in slave trading.

[@roxannechristensen9532]

Great seeing you and Fran and her special bead also looking forward to you and Dawn on Tuesday always love seeing you

[@ShortOrderCook]

Lovely to meet you Fran. Thankyou for telling your story of the trade beads and the associations with the slave trade - and for your pipes story too Nicola. Thankyou both for a great day out mudlarking!

[@peggyreid6836]

Such a wonderful Mudlarking adventure. The beautiful little 'book' looks like something from a doll house. The bag seals are fabulous. Never knew there were so many kinds. Frans trade bead is quite beautiful. Nicola, on second thought the little 'book' could have been a type of locket or bangle on a bracelet?????

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Peggy ❤️

[@geertruivanbroekhoven7209]

And let's all appreciate the most special find during this whole mudlarking adventure . There isn't really a category where we can put this exceptional treasure. It is ... Nicola White 💛 !

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

You're too kind! ❤️ xx

[@Adam-Gates-Mudlark]

Amazing Nicola - such a tragic story about frans bead 😞 I was brought up with the quote “treat others how you want to be treated, nevertheless of there background”. I’ve never gone against it 😊⚓️

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Adam!

[@BrendaWinter-m5y]

Watching from Melbourne on the 3rd day of January 2025. Thanks Fran & Nicola for a very interesting stream. I love that each stream is like a mini history lesson

[@juliadouglas872]

She’s super sweet and it was nice to have one person filming and just enjoying another’s company.

[@janis1981]

As a young father of two boys, this helps us to keep things in perspective. Thanks both for sharing your story.

[@helengrunow5094]

Ah My Mudlarking Queen! Always interesting and insightful.Was nice to meet Fran too. Thankyou & Cheers!

[@lovelyskull3483]

Frans bead is so thought provoking. Thank you for this video, very interesting.

[@lindaopperthauser2284]

Just love Fran. What a sweet lady. Our Black history month is February. USA. Love all you girls' finds!!😅❤

[@aliencat11]

So lovely to see Fran and her findings. Thank you for sharing her story.

[@svenska81]

I love the opening sequence of the videos with the sounds of the river, the background of the London architecture, the wildlife sights and sounds. Then watching you find bits and pieces that most would consider rubbish, but you find beauty and value in them. Thank you.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you

[@alicebutler2007]

That little book is beautiful. I think it would be nice if it could be restored and used again. I love the history that you and Fran find, good or bad. Like fran said some if these things arent taught in schools and im learning so much from your channel.

[@johnwoodcock3208]

You are as beautiful as the nature you film Nicola!!😊

[@paulbenson2452]

Dear Nicola, Wonderful video on Black History month. Very important and enlightening. History should never be forgotten or dicarded. Thank you. Poppet

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you poppet xx

[@evergreen8965]

Powerful narrative by Fran. Thank you.

[@martinmarsola6477]

Thank you for the joint mudlarking with Fran. A very historic moment on they explanation of the barrel based. Sad to hear how humans were treated years ago. I am proud of the fact that Fran spoke so eloquently about the subject. I copied her web site to follow her. Hope your family are safe and healthy. Cheers Nicola to you and Fran. You both make a great larking team. ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿😊👍🇺🇸

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Martin!

[@teresamoore3577]

Hi Nicola, fantastic finds & very interesting. You looked very pretty in your lovely red blouse sending you love and prayers always, please keep safe xx❤️🙏🏻🇬🇧

[@marionbowler5440]

What a lovely lark, enjoyed Frans story, I do love the history bits the best. Awesome Nicola, till next lark. Thank you for sharing. 🇨🇦🍁🐘🧡🤗

[@davidsanderson4442]

To think people were ever bought and sold, even traded with trinkets like beads is horrifying. I’m so glad you introduced us to Fran.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks David

[@billiehydrick6417]

I'm ready, enjoy every one, thanks my friend ❤ 😘

[@tazstanley4552]

Loved Fran's story. Beautifully shared.

[@dscobellusa]

Fran seems such a lovely woman. Loved her barrel-shaped trade bead and the lead seals. I thought it a photo album locket that you would put tiny photos and a lock of hair of beloved family members. I have seen some similar ones and purchased similar ones at antique stores. I would clean it up because the engraving is pretty and though you might not be able to open or close it, the little hinges are so cute. Neat finds today! I love the trade token too and anything with writing you can research. It makes it fun. One thing that strikes me when I watch the Thames mudlarking videos is the noise...there are a lot of sirens or in this video loudspeaker or megaphone hollering. I live in a small USA town, so I wonder at your ability to live with the noise there.

[@jeremypearson6852]

So glad you included Frans bead in your video. I think she’s right, in that it’s incredibly poignant when you consider it may have been used to trade for a human being. Thanks for continuing to include the historical aspect of your finds. An expat watching in Florida.

[@simhifree2416]

Hi Nick 👋You look beautiful. The blouse and soft makeup are perfect. Thank you for introducing us to Fran. Such a lovely smile. The history of Trade Beads is facinating. You know the were used by the Spanish invaders of California. They also used Trade Beads in the sale or auction of indigenous people. Downtown Los Angeles (Yanga village) there were auctions near Elvera Street. Beads were used in the southwest US for trading items with indigenous people, that continue to value them to use on moccasins to earrings, necklaces and hair barrettes. Nicole that little book would be wonderful restored! It would make an attractive piece hung on a chain, for a necklace. Perhaps the Man with a Hat could do the work? He's fabulous at doing such metal work 💜

[@LavishHim]

The little book could be a prayer box. Lovely video! (Lovely lady too)! 😉

[@MrLotrecht]

24:51 was very hard discourse of history! A really nice person- greetings from Germany!

[@eringemini7091]

I've learned so much today from Fran, as a big fan of history, I never knew about these beads! Additionally, finding different types of pins at different areas of the Thames is fascinating, as well, it makes you wonder if some pins were there as they were near to certain Dressmakers/ Tailors shops or just the factories that made the pins?

[@hannah-mariachisholm8082]

Fran, so moving. A powerful share, thank you

[@gerseygal3633]

Nicola, the little book is a real treasure....Lucky you....Blessings...

[@lilianmcguigan9240]

Hi Nicola. I absolutely enjoy following along as you explore the Thames shore and find pieces of history. And I would partially clean the tiny book or bible, just enough to see its original beauty.

[@rogerdempsey7227]

Awesome information on Fran history and the best fines again great day nic stay blessed and see you again on the next episode 👍

[@billcotton1551]

Very moving and somber story Fran told. It is very important to never forget what happened .

[@susantaylor4340]

Awesome finds, beautiful stories and a wonderful day on the Thames. Thanks Nicola!

[@paultrigger8492]

What a lovely mudlark with Fran Nicola and how touching was the story Fran told about her find it really makes you think about the hardships of all the poor souls who were slaves, and your little book what a fantastic little find I think I would have to clean it up to see the engravings and maybe soak in a thin oil to help loosen up the hinges, always love watching you nicola you make my day , take care x

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thanks Paul x

[@juanitaparks3032]

The little book is so lovely. Beautiful!

[@lindaisenegger163]

Living in Chicago, I cannot tell you how much this ment to me....Yhis was absolutely amazing!!!!

[@joyceclark8476]

Hello Nicola, hello Fran, lovely video. Such history in the items. Really reveals so much more history behind the relics.Great idea on the charity coins . I would have the book repaired. Nicola, you look beautiful in the red blouse. Thank you ladies, nice to meet you Franjoy. Joyce from Connecticut, United States 🇺🇸. ❤️🙏

[@jacquecaeser9078]

Fran was a wonderful addition. Truly

[@jackiebeans2689]

Very interesting finds and history. Thanks!!💕😺😺😺

[@July45Sweetpea]

Dear Nicola - as always thank you for the lovely history lessons that you give us each time. Just love that little "book" how exciting and also thank Fran telling us about the slave beads. Xx

[@cynthiarowley719]

Thank you, larking with friends, always a nice idea. I love that you share your enjoyment with us. 🖖💐Good Wishes for the coming seasons of cold😍🤞🐦

[@indysmith4437]

Thank you, Fran, for sharing the story of your bead.

[@anthonyturton8091]

could you gently rinse the book in an ultra sonic cleaner , as a compromise.? Frans info on the bead is everyone;s history in one sense. and her telling conveighed its personal importance well. the end music was lovely

[@duncanrichardson5306]

Very interesting. Fran's bead reminded me of a book I read at uni years ago, called 'Cannon Shot and Glass Beads : Modern Black Writing', edited by George Lamming. The stories in the book are mostly about the longer term effects of slavery but seeing that painted bead made it all very immediate, the way objects can do so powerfully.

[@robquince3076]

I would restore the book👍Fran is a lovely lady just like your good self ❤️lovely video as always Xxx

[@lesliezapshala1311]

Thanks for sharing ladies. You are appreciated.

[@LarWolkan]

Another video masterpiece! Thank you Nicola!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you ❤️

[@sandracroft2109]

Such a meaningful video, though I enjoy all of yours. I am glad to have learned about the slave beads, and to have met Fran.

[@m.chelle247]

Hello Fran! Wonderful segment. Bless You Nicola. ❤🇬🇧🇺🇸✌🏽🤗

[@olgamountain9904]

Hi honey. I discovered your channel a few days ago and I’m enjoying your videos immensely. Not only is the content fascinating and informative, but your manner and voice are so calming and soothing, so I’ve been watching you every night before I go to bed. You put me in such a peaceful frame of mind. And so of course I subscribed.

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you and welcome! ❤️

[@lunacat2292]

Fran is a very good history teller. Thank you for introducing her. I appreciate her perspective. Cheers,

[@kartapuce3814]

Hope that you are now both in a warm place with a nice cup of tea! ☕☕ To answer your question, I wouldn't polish that precious little book, I would just take the mud away and keep it as it is. History must prevails. Lovely fish and good video, thank you Nicola.

[@grandee4383]

What a wonderful video Nicola!! The story of the bead truly made me feel as if I’d been kicked in the stomach. Some history is tough to imagine and the thought of human beings being sold sickens me!! As for your fabulous find, the little book, I am torn as to whether you should polish it or not. It’s such a special find so I’d hate to see anything happen to it. Thanks for brightening up my Sunday! Much love from DeeAnn in CT🇺🇸

[@JeanStAubin-nl9uo]

I would leave that miniature book as is. It was probably a locket for a loved ones lock of hair. This channel is so interesting. Thank you for taking us along.

[@johnfisher5363]

Great having Fran on. Your follow ups on your finds are extremely interesting.

[@catsinhouse]

Thank you for introducing us to your wonderful friend, Fran. She was very interesting and compelling. Best wishes from the PNW.

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

Kind Thanks to you and Fran! What lovely and interesting finds and music! The bead Fran found is bitter sweet reminder of a time that so fortunately passed. And it went on for centuries! Recently I listened to former slaves who were recorded in the first half of the 20th century. It’s hard to believe how humans enslaved other humans. I do believe that more people everyday are realizing we are One Human Family and children of our Mother Earth, which I’ve always believed. Love, Peace and Joy of Being to both you Lovely Larkers! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania

[@geslinam9703]

Nothing has really passed. Slavery has existed for thousands of years, and continues to go on in some countries even today.

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

@@geslinam9703 I agree. The slave trade of humans, adults and children, is a global problem that must be stopped. Kind Thanks! Blessings! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania

[@Wreckdiver59]

Thank You for sharing another mudlark's story. It's interesting to see the same foreshore through someone else's discoveries.

[@fairyGrandmother]

Hey Nicola! I really enjoyed meeting Sarah, and hearing her info on trade beads. What a beautiful locket! I would have it restored and wear it! TFS Hugs!

[@chriswhelan3412]

Wonderful video (as always) and it was very nice to meet Fran and hear her story. My take on the little book is to do what you want... but I'd leave it be with its hard-earned patina. Have a beautiful week!

[@nicolawhitemudlark]

Thank you Chris