Ash Thoreau

I can’t tell you how excited I was to hit Target with my kid and husband the other day. Sometimes a little retail therapy is just what you need, right?

We did what everyone does at Target—wandered aimlessly, exploring aisles as if we’d never seen a store before. I spotted an adult Bluey sweater, which had me instantly excited, but alas, they were out of my size. Another little nudge to keep me focused on my new health journey!

Naturally, we ventured into the Disney section and the toy aisles. Dais, our little one, did surprisingly well resisting the allure of new toys. It’s one of those small victories that make parenthood feel like we’re doing something right.

Then we hit the jackpot: the seasonal section! It was all there—Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas in one glittering corner. I swear Target knows how to put you right in the holiday spirit! Daisy found herself a blue pumpkin, and although she didn’t “need” it, let’s be honest, that’s what Target is all about: picking up things you didn’t know you couldn’t live without.

And then… The chicken caught my eye.

I’d seen it before on Instagram Reels—a throw pillow in the shape of a chicken. Gorgeous in its own right, but definitely not the star of the show. That title belongs to the beaded turkey sitting next to the chicken. He was just one lone turkey, looking like he’d been waiting for me. Into the cart he went, and I spent the rest of the trip deciding if I could justify spending $40 on him. But the thought of leaving him behind to be scooped up by someone else? No way. So, home he came.

Now, he’s settled in, waiting for his name. I’d love for Dais to decide, but she hasn’t committed yet. Either way, he’s definitely staying out all year, and I feel like he’s already part of the family!