While packing for Scotland, I had no trouble choosing which gadgets and clothing to bring. Books were harder. The hardest choices were the least functional possessions, bits of decoration and significance that we all accumulate but may be hard-pressed to categorise.

This little bit of golden quartz was a gift from FunkyPlaid along with six other stones on my birthday in 2008. Although I started writing about the city-wide treasure hunt that he created for me, I never finished. It was magical, and I was afraid too much examination would unravel the stage curtain.

82.365: candle and rock

I was told that golden quartz boosts creativity and chases fears away, and I could always use a little of both.