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!
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What a wonderful tree! Great for teaching!
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing. Beautiful. 🙂
Merry Christmas!
wow…what a lovely idea…Merry christmas to you and yours…happy holidys..
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 ~
LOVE this! You had ME in tears! Have a wonderful and snowfilled Christmas!
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!!
The most beautiful tree! Have a great Christmas, Veronica.
Beautiful tree..I love the meaning behind it.
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!
This is my favorite Christmas tree I have seen. What a wonderful idea. Great way to make your kids think about others.
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!
What a great tree ~ love it! Have a very Merry Christmas ~ enjoy the week-end to its fullest.
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.
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.
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!
Love your tree. Such a wonderful idea.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.
That's the sweetest idea! And looks like you have super sweet kiddos! Merry Christmas!!
I LOVE, LOVE this idea! It is so beautiful – and perfect for the season! Merry Christmas to you!!
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.
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!
What a creative idea-love it!
Have a very Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year!
Stay safe too.
Melinda
What a neat idea … we may have to do that next year.
What a great idea … this is just precious! Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas too!
Okay you are UNBELIEVABLE!! What creativity- have a great trip ;).
beautiful tree, great idea
Hope you have a very Merry Christmas!
Wow! What a great idea! I love it!!
Merry Christmas !
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 🙂
I love this idea! You have inspired me to try something new next year with me kids!
Merry Christmas
Denise
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!
this is so wonderful and lovely. i'm definitely doing this next year
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!
wonderful idea, and what sweet and thoughtful children you have!
So beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
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!
love this so much!
GREAT idea!
We will deffinitely implement that into our Christmas next year.
Thanks for sharing!
Love it! I hope your kids remember this tree project for years to come.
Mom
Oh my gosh…..i love this idea. Next year, i'm starting this thoughtful tradition in my home!