To paint or not to paint? That is the question

Here is my old corner china cabinet. I love this piece and how I'm the third generation to own this beauty. It's got dings, it's got scratches and it's not in the best of condition, but it has been well loved and has withstood many changes and quakes. It still has it's original paper label that shows the furniture company who made her as well as what "number". My dilemma is in whether or not I should paint the old girl, give her a make over and gussy her up a bit. I had considered re-finishing her, but with as big a clan as I have here I'd be worried and stressed that she'd be mauled again, yet in her current state she just seems to yell out for some love and attention. I've thought that with paint it wouldn't matter if she was handled, dinged again or scratched as that would just add to her all ready amazing character and maybe one day, when the young un's are older, she will get refinished but for now? "If" I do decide to use paint, I'm thinking something like a colonial red (like the red in my pantry plaid which is really crimson) or a nice vintage or antique white....sigh*
So, does she get some make up or do I leave her as is? Your thoughts?