I’ve been moving and storing a box for my brother since 1995. I finally have it here and got him on the phone and he told me to open it. There were a few unremarkable coffee mugs, lots of Robert Ludlum paperbacks and the reason he wanted me to not throw out The Box.
Our cousin Howie was like Dad’s big brother, and Dad always looked up to him. My brother now has the WWII shell, that is engraved and to be used as a “piggy bank” and his Army knife.
I’ve saved those two items and will send them to my brother, with love. I now understand why he wanted me to save this box all these years. Oh, all the books are going to St. Vincent de Paul. Family memories are priceless and I remember that shell sitting out, proud. Never saw the knife ’til now but that’s OK.
Howie’s gone now but left these items for my Dad, who is still alive but entrusted them to my brother, via me. Frankly, I’m afraid to send them in the mail unless I label it WWII Memorabilia. Who knows what Homeland Security will do? Maybe I’ll do UPS Ground.
Again, it’s about getting as much stuff out of here as we can before guests arrive. No boxes! But I’m glad my brother (by phone) and I were able to finally assess its contents. Must get hubby up now, he’s beat after moving and long nights at conferences. Cheers, Dee
Cooking with Dee 