July Christmas Tree?
Okay, maybe not July — but my wife was adamant about an early tree.
Making Memories
Our daughter Jade is 3 and these might be her first Christmas memories. Needless to say, we’re super excited. But there was a little issue about the tree …
Traditions
When I was young, our family had a REAL tree and it had a lifespan of around 3 weeks. Because of this, our tree would be up 2 weeks before Christmas and we’d take it down after the new year. Ever since then, December 12th just FEELS right for setting up the family tree.
Maybe November?
In Canada, some stores set up Christmas trees the day after Halloween (November 1). For me, this is WAAAAAY too early. For my wife, this sounded like a GREAT idea.
Finding Peace
All November, we wrestled about Christmas tree dates. I was holding out for December 1st. Finally, we reached a compromise with November 25th — one month before Christmas. The convincing argument was United States didn’t have Thanksgiving until November 22nd. How can we celebrate Christmas before the USA celebrates Thanksgiving ???
I still feel “wrong” setting up a tree in November … but at least there’s peace in our home.
Now Santa, Let’s Get This Straight …
Our family started a tradition last year of “drawing” our letter to Santa. This year, Jade asked for a “Minnie’s Bowtique” toy. Pictured is a warm winter sun, Minnie, Goofy and the brightly coloured bows. I added the text and snowflakes.
Last year, we requested a toy kitchen set. Santa really enjoyed listening to Jade with her artwork. And most importantly, Jade had a lot of fun too.
Santa, Can We Have Snow For Christmas?
As a prairie boy growing up, it’s still strange not having snow in December.
It was a dry day and we decided to spread some Christmas cheer.
“Daddy, This Is You On A Slide”
Sometimes life feels so good …
Make Like A Tree and “Leaf”
Almost all the leaves are gone … but this old guy refuses to “leaf”.
Recently, the weather has been amazing and we’ve had some amazing family-walks.
Jade Is A True “Arteest”
Jade at her art station (our kitchen table).
Thankfully, she can become very absorbed while drawing.
Jade says they’re doing the “Move it, Move it” dance.
I Will Never Leaf You
It’s raining outside but we’re still having fun.
An overview of our “play station.”
Jade named the drawing and she also “wrote” the caption in red.
A fun snail detail from our final drawing.
“I’ll Never Leaf You” … the final drawing.
Gratitude
In Canada, today is Thanksgiving. I’m eternally grateful for the moments of love with my family.
I’m also very thankful for Art’s ability for us to grow and connect.
Happy Thanksgiving Day.
Family Tree
Talking to my daughter about the many people and parts of our family.
Funny Bunny Family
Jade drew a family with big ears … And a special someone has a cute bunny tail.
Drawings For Jade 