I understand, I understand. 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 several years ago with our children because this is a season focused on requesting things for ourselves, right? Thus, I devised the Wishmas tree to request things for others instead.
It’s a rather modest tree that we now keep in the dining area, but when the kids were younger, they adored having it right in the kitchen! It was “almost” as thrilling as their advent calendars. I embellish it with a simple garland—this year, I opted for a bell garland from Michael’s. I bought it last year, but I found some comparable garlands here and here.
Although it wasn’t meant for this, it has turned into a sort of time capsule for us. Every year, the kids have wished for things that pertain to what’s happening in our surroundings. I have a senior in high school this year, so you can imagine how desperately 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 thinking about others. My son might have wished for reduced taxes 😉, but he also wished for someone at his workplace to recover. No questions asked. I’m just delighted to see him considering someone else.
If you ever desire to create a Wishmas tree of your own, I hope this provides you with some motivation! I keep the cards/ornaments stored away to revisit as they grow older…and can’t seem to recollect that we’ve ever had this tradition until I reveal them. Ugh.
