I’m aware, I’m aware. The holiday season has passed. And what in the world is a Wishmas tree? It’s our family’s method of considering others. I initiated this a while back with our children because this time of year is largely focused on requesting items for ourselves, you know? Thus, I devised the Wishmas tree to wish for items for others instead.
It’s a modest tree that now resides in the dining room, but when the kids were younger, they adored having it in the kitchen! It was “almost” as thrilling as their advent calendars. I adorn it with a straightforward garland—this year’s was a bell garland from Michael’s. I bought it last year, though I discovered some comparable garlands here and here.
Though it wasn’t intended for this, it has served as a time capsule for us. Each year, the kids have wished for things that connect to what’s happening in the world around us. I have a high school senior this year, so you can understand how much she longs for this.
The guidelines are quite straightforward. They must wish for someone or something beyond themselves. The Wishmas tree is a moment for considering others. My son might have wished for lower taxes 😉, but he also wished for someone at his workplace to recover. No questions asked. I’m just thrilled to see him care for someone else.
If you ever wish to create your own Wishmas tree, I hope this serves as some motivation! I keep the cards/ornaments stashed away to revisit as they grow older…and can never remember that we’ve had this tradition until I reveal them. Ugh.
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