I started thinking that I push the idea of thankfulness at Thanksgiving, but then I turn around and encourage the kids to “make Christmas lists”, “think of what you want for Christmas” blah, blah, blah. I spotted this little tree at Lowes, and a light bulb literally went on over my head.
When I brought it home, I cut up some strips of craft paper and was ready to tackle the decorating. If you ever take on a similar project, I have one piece of advice—don’t get overly wordy in explaining it to your little ones. Kids apparently “get it” that you want them to think outside themselves every once in a while. They made that very clear to me.
The concept was simple. While we sat down for lunch, the kids were to come up with wishes for other people this holiday season. I tried to keep the guidance to a minimum, and they came up with the most heartwarming wishes. Some were more universal…
Some were reflective of what 8-year olds are thinking about right now…
And some made me cry…
Some coffee filters served as a little bit of filler, but the decorating was left up to the wishes. I think I’m in love.
So that leaves me with my wish. I wish for all of my blog friends—my blog family—to have a safe and happy holiday. I am so thankful for your comments of encouragement, your words of advice, and your ability to make me laugh. THANK YOU!
I’m off to visit family for a few days. I’ll be back next week! Stay safe!
arkie says
What a wonderful tree! Great for teaching!
LaVonne @ Long Wait says
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing. Beautiful. 🙂
Merry Christmas!
nima says
wow…what a lovely idea…Merry christmas to you and yours…happy holidys..
Nancy says
This is precious, Chris, and so much like you 🙂 I am sheltering this idea to use next year at Thanksgiving/Christmas ~ and a very Merry Christmas to all of you and yours ~
Linda@ Lime in the Coconut says
LOVE this! You had ME in tears! Have a wonderful and snowfilled Christmas!
Kristin says
I've been thinking the same thing…the more my three year old talks about Santa coming and leaving presents, the more I want to do something different! This is a great idea and I think I will save it for next year. Merry Christmas!!
Life In The Thrifty Lane says
The most beautiful tree! Have a great Christmas, Veronica.
Lil' Woman says
Beautiful tree..I love the meaning behind it.
Willo says
That is beautiful, in concept and appearance. I am so taking off on this idea for us next year! Thanks for the great idea (as always) and very safe travels and happy holidays!
Tracy's Trinkets and Treasures/Treasured Moments says
This is my favorite Christmas tree I have seen. What a wonderful idea. Great way to make your kids think about others.
Laura Keller says
What a great idea – for kids or adults! It's great to think about others during this time of year and putting those thoughts on a tree for anyone to see is a wonderful idea. Merry Christmas to you and yours! Thanks for all your give us readers throughout the year!
Lori says
What a great tree ~ love it! Have a very Merry Christmas ~ enjoy the week-end to its fullest.
The Martys says
OMG I so love this idea. What a wonderful thing to do with your kids. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Here's to a great New Year.
dogsmom says
You are raising kids right.
Doesn't it make your heart grow when you see wishs like this and know you did not prompt them?
Beautiful presentation too.
Susan Crabtree says
this is so sweet! we do something very similar for new years eve-we have a "wish box" where we place all of our wishes for the new year. it is fun to look back on our previous years to see if any of our wishes have come true!
Nichole @ The Pumpkin Seed says
Love your tree. Such a wonderful idea.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Kassi @ Truly Lovely says
That's the sweetest idea! And looks like you have super sweet kiddos! Merry Christmas!!
Michelle (Lemonadegal) says
I LOVE, LOVE this idea! It is so beautiful – and perfect for the season! Merry Christmas to you!!
The Mulberry Girl says
Coming out of blog hibernation and cookie making to tell you I love this idea. I was thinking of you this morning, you know my sarcasm but that aside, I am truly grateful for your friendship this morning. You have given me some much needed laugh out loud moments this year.
Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family.
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
this is a wonderful idea that really shows off the true meaning of the holiday. i will have to save this one for ext year with my kids!
Country Dreaming says
What a creative idea-love it!
Have a very Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year!
Stay safe too.
Melinda
Randi says
What a neat idea … we may have to do that next year.
pollydove says
What a great idea … this is just precious! Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas too!
Brooke and Brett Martin says
Okay you are UNBELIEVABLE!! What creativity- have a great trip ;).
Mom Daughter Style says
beautiful tree, great idea
Melanie says
Hope you have a very Merry Christmas!
Froggie says
Wow! What a great idea! I love it!!
Christina says
Merry Christmas !
Becky says
This is a great idea, I am thankful for all of the lovely blogs that inspire me to be a better person, mom and crafter 🙂
The Cottage Chick says
I love this idea! You have inspired me to try something new next year with me kids!
Merry Christmas
Denise
Lisa says
This is such a wonderful idea. I'll have to file this away in the back of my brain for next year! Hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas!
Rachel says
this is so wonderful and lovely. i'm definitely doing this next year
shabbycottagegirl says
What a fantabulous idea!! And I love that you are sending the message to your kids that Christmas is about more than just wishing things for ourselves. L-O-V-E it!
AndreaLeigh says
wonderful idea, and what sweet and thoughtful children you have!
Amy says
So beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Beverly @ The Buzz says
What a good idea! Can you remind us of it next November–I'll never remember and this is something I'd love to do!
lofteeideas says
love this so much!
The Teacher's Wife says
GREAT idea!
We will deffinitely implement that into our Christmas next year.
Thanks for sharing!
Barb says
Love it! I hope your kids remember this tree project for years to come.
Mom
3egirls says
Oh my gosh…..i love this idea. Next year, i'm starting this thoughtful tradition in my home!