I Wish…

The day after Thanksgiving I’m still giving thanks for so many things, especially leftovers. Then there’s the competition to see which two people get to break the wishbone! Now, that’s fun!!!  :)))))))))))))))))

Ok so Thanksgiving is over – you’ve stuffed yourself (two or three times yesterday), did the double dip on the stuffing, while adding gravy and jellied cranberry sauce ( just the way God intended!) way too many pre-dinner snacks, and then of course rammed a few pieces of pie.  Now, add to that a few adult beverages! So………., today is for resting, and recovery – unless you are one of those nuts that runs out and searches for bargains at the local retailers. One tradition we hold to is who gets to test their luck with the turkey wishbone.  Sitting on the windowsill, it’s slowly drying out, to be tested by two of us from the family. Of course, sometimes we wish for our unpredictable Brownies to pull out another last-minute victory, or goodwill for our family and friends, or pulling that “lucky” lottery ticket, we quietly say our wish, and then give the bone a pull.  The turkey wishbone, also known as the furcula, has a fascinating history deeply rooted in ancient superstitions and traditions. For those who chose to have ham or pasta, sorry, no bone to pull.  Special thanks to Google and Wikipedia on the info – have fun and good luck with your pull!

Music from Slaid Cleaves

• The turkey furcula bone is a slender, Y-shaped bone found in the chest of most birds, but it is most commonly associated with turkeys in modern times. The tradition of making wishes on a turkey wishbone dates back centuries and spans across various cultures.
• The tradition of making wishes on a wishbone is believed to have originated with the Etruscans, an ancient Italian civilization that predates the Roman Empire. They would use chicken wishbones for divination and wished upon them as part of their belief in the power of birds.
• The Romans, who adopted many Etruscan customs, incorporated the tradition of breaking a wishbone into their celebrations. They believed that the wishbone possessed magical properties, and they would break it in the hope that their wishes would come true.
• The word “furcula” itself is a Latin term, meaning “little fork” or “forked bone.” This name aptly describes the bone’s Y-shape and is consistent with the Roman fascination with its form.
• The custom of breaking the wishbone found its way to the British Isles, where it became a popular tradition, especially during the holiday season. Turkeys were introduced to Europe after Christopher Columbus’s voyages to the Americas, and it was then that the larger turkey wishbone became associated with this practice.
• As European settlers brought the tradition to North America, it gained popularity, especially during Thanksgiving celebrations. By the 18th century, the turkey wishbone had firmly established itself as a symbol of hope and luck.
• In the modern era, the practice of making wishes on a turkey wishbone involves two people each holding one end of the bone and pulling it apart. The person who ends up with the larger piece is said to have their wish granted.  Some also believe that the wish must be made before breaking the bone (makes sense to me).
• In some cultures, particularly in the US, there is a competitive aspect to breaking the wishbone. People might compete to see who gets the larger piece, which can lead to some humorous and lighthearted contests during holiday gatherings.
• In the 20th century, the popularity of the wishbone tradition even led to its use in advertising. Various companies used the symbolism of the wishbone to promote their products, adding a touch of superstition to their marketing campaigns (think Wish Bone Dressings).
• The tradition of making wishes on a turkey wishbone may have its origins in ancient civilizations, but the breaking of the wishbone remains a charming and lighthearted custom that brings an element of fun and hope to the festivities. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of traditions, no matter how old or quirky they may be.
• 46 million turkeys are eaten each Thanksgiving, 22 million on Christmas and 19 million turkeys on Easter. Dat’s a lot of wishes!
• Be sure to share your traditions – email me at skowalski@khtheat.com

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DO YOU LIKE CONTESTS?
Me, too.
As you may know the Kowalski Heat Treating logo finds its way
into the visuals of my Friday posts.
I.  Love.  My.  Logo.
One week there could be three logos.
The next week there could be 15 logos.
And sometimes the logo is very small or just a partial logo showing.
But there are always logos in some of the pictures.
So, I challenge you, my beloved readers, to count them and send me a
quick email with the total number of logos in the Friday post.
On the following Tuesday I’ll pick a winner from the correct answers
and send that lucky person some great KHT swag.
So, start counting and good luck!  
Oh, and the logos at the very top header don’t count.
Got it? Good.  :-))))
Have fun!!

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