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Debi Hopkins shows off an assortment of the heirloom and Longaberger baskets she has collected. (PHOTO/T. LYNN ADAMS)

Great Falls,MT - Before the days of plastic bins and cardboard, baskets were the primary way to store and carry items. Women used baskets to haul laundry, gather vegetables and shop at the store. At home, baskets held blankets, stored clothing and valuables, even wood and kindling.

For several decades America forgot the beauty, charm and versatility of simple handwoven baskets. Recently, though, baskets have been rediscovered, and are being used for storage, function and decor.Ten years ago, a client walked into the Great Falls law offices of David A. Hopkins, carrying all of her files in a basket. David's wife, Debi, who was working in the office, saw the basket and was taken by its beauty and functionality......

Read more at - http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20090502/LIFESTYLE/905020305