Earlier this summer, we asked readers to tell us about their most prized possessions. Hundreds of you sent photos of the objects you'd grab if your house was in flames — and told us why.

• We're here with a second installment in the series celebrating stuff that matters. Check it out:

"Minutes after my alma mater, Villanova, advanced to the Final Four, I impulsively purchased a plane ticket, EWR-IAH, and decided I'd figure out the rest ... including (gulp) requesting three days' vacation from work. No one else could go, so I went solo.

• "I had the best time partying with alums at the Villanova hotel and saw, live, what is considered one of the best championship games. This hangs in my office as a reminder to sprinkle impulse into my life." —Sharon W., Bloomfield, N.J.

"This mantle clock was a wedding gift to my mother's parents in 1919. It chimes on the hour and half hour — a deep, glorious, melodious tone.

• When I was growing up and heard it at night, the chime assured me I was safe. It still evokes that same feeling. —Annie N., Albany, Ore.

"This is a picture that our friend and artist drew of my husband's best buddy,  Tucker, an Australian terrier rescue. 

• Tucker was not the brightest bulb, but the cutest, sweetest, most loving and loyal dog ever. It is top on the list of items for our 'go bag.'" —Lynn C., Lafayette, Colo.

"I keep this piece of asphalt on my desk and everywhere I am to remind me of where I came from.

• I worked my way through college and law school by working at the Shelly Co., an asphalt-laying company." —Luann C., now a judge, Perry County, Ohio

"Saying goodbye to Alaska" is reader Pat M.'s title for this stunning snap of a sunset, taken from the sea.