Ruth Family Turkey Keepsake

Years ago, our son was in the United States Marine Corps. Before the holiday season, he was assigned to Okinawa, Japan. This would be the first time he wasn't home for Thanksgiving. 

To keep sadness at bay, my husband suggested a pre-Thanksgiving shopping trip. As we negotiated a crowded store, Doug suddenly disappeared. Several minutes later he returned with a huge smile on his face. In his hands were two ceramic turkeys.

I reminded him we had more than enough decorations. He thought these would be fun to send to Justin. The next care package was filled with snacks, magazines and two turkeys. 

First thing Justin said when he called Thanksgiving morning ... "thanks Mom & Dad for the turkeys!" Seems he and his fellow Marines thought they were a hoot and placed them on their holiday table. 

When Justin finally returned home, we were in for a little surprise. While unpacking, he handed me a small box. Looking down I found the ceramic turkeys, carefully wrapped to survive a journey across the world. 

I honestly never expected to see them again. Asking Justin why he kept them, he replied "they are Ruth family keepsakes and must be saved". 

And that is the story of our ceramic turkey candle holders. 

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!