I get it, I really do. Christmas has passed. But what on earth is a Wishmas tree? It’s our family’s unique way of considering others. I initiated this tradition years ago with the kids since this period is largely about asking for personal things, right? Thus, I invented the Wishmas tree to shift the focus to what others might need instead.
It’s a modest tree that now resides in our dining area, but when the kids were younger, they adored having it right there in the kitchen! It was “nearly” as thrilling as their advent calendars. I adorn it with a simple garland—this year’s choice was a bell garland from Michael’s. I bought it last year, but I discovered a few similar garlands here and here.
While it wasn’t designed for this purpose, it has essentially become a bit of a time capsule for us. Each year, the kids wish for things that reflect what’s happening in the world around them. I have a high school senior this year, so you can imagine how desperately she desires this.
The guidelines are rather straightforward. They must wish for something for someone other than themselves. The Wishmas tree is a moment for considering others. My son might have wished for lower taxes 😉, but he also wished for a coworker to recover soon. No questions barriers. I’m just thrilled to see him caring for someone else.
If you ever decide to create your own Wishmas tree, I hope this gives you a spark of inspiration! I keep the cards/ornaments stored away to revisit as they grow older…and sometimes can’t recall that we’ve ever carried on this tradition until I show them. Ugh.
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