Being in the business of agriculture public relations and communications, I get to attend numerous trade shows throughout the year and visit with producers across the country. It’s always gratifying to me to hear their stories, be able to share my story, and connect with those who raise the food my family eats.

My husband also likes it when I bring home new hats.

That said, I’ve seen every type of gimmick and give-away you can imagine…from key chains to coolers and koozies. But here’s one I’d never seen before – advertising marbles. Grandpa has jars full of Coke, Pepsi and John Deere marbles.

I’m not sure what purpose they serve other than to be a collectible. Maybe I should’ve been saving some of the trinkets I brought home from trade shows instead of letting my son play with them for a week or so and then tossing them in the trash. (Except the coolers and koozies, that is!)

Until our next history lesson …