Waking up to find your home transformed can be a delightful surprise, as demonstrated by Marlene Oxender’s recent experience with her grandchildren. During a weekend in November 2023, Oxender discovered that her home had been playfully decorated with tiny glass ducks, a gesture filled with love and creativity.
As she and her husband awoke, they gradually noticed the whimsical decor. Ducks were placed in every conceivable spot, from shelves to cupboards, and even hidden within drawers. Oxender’s grandchildren had stayed up late, relishing the fun of hiding these cheerful decorations.
Reflecting on the playful atmosphere, Oxender shared, “They told me they thought they’d been caught when I’d gotten out of bed for a drink of water.” Despite her late-night wanderings, she remained blissfully unaware of the duck decorations until the morning revealed the cheerful surprises.
Family Traditions and Memories
The joy of discovery didn’t stop there. At the end of the weekend, Oxender found a small figurine of Jesus hidden among the decor. It took her a week to spot him standing serenely on a model ship on a shelf in the living room. This ship holds sentimental value, as it was assembled years ago by her father-in-law, Leo Oxender. Leo had a notable history, having served as a cook on the USS Acadia during his military service, crossing the Pacific Ocean multiple times.
The model ship, originally launched in 1932 and later converted to a hospital ship in 1943, served as a medical center during World War II. This connection sparked deeper curiosity among Oxender’s family about Leo’s military experiences and the legacy he left behind.
Oxender remarked on the significance of the Jesus figurine, stating it would remain in its place as a reminder of family love and history. “He’ll forever be a reminder of the love passed down from those who came before us, and the love we’ll continue to share with generations to come,” she said.
Counting the Ducks and Cherishing Memories
When Oxender’s grandchildren returned for the Christmas holidays, they were eager to know how many ducks had been discovered. The family had enjoyed the decorations in their hidden spots, leading to a surprising total of 36 ducks found. The grandchildren estimated that there were still 64 more to uncover, turning the search into a joyful family activity.
Marlene Oxender is not only a grandmother but also a writer and author. She shares stories of her upbringing in the small town of Edgerton, her large family, and her late brother, who was born with Down syndrome. Her published works, including Picket Fences and Stevie and Grandma, You Already Am Old, are available on Amazon.
As family traditions continue to evolve, the playful spirit of hiding treasures serves as a reminder of the importance of love and togetherness. The little Jesus figurine and the hidden ducks represent not just simple decorations but cherished memories that will resonate through the family for years to come.
