You’re tree is just beautiful. You’re doing the right thing with Benjamin . If taught early to respect things it will become a natural behavior as he gets older. As an educator of young children, the best way I found in teaching them ‘gently’ not to touch things that are off limits, is the expression, ‘Use your eyes’ rather than constantly say ‘don’t touch’ ! Believe me, it works.
You will never regret teaching Benjamin how to respect someone else’s property. He will always be welcome in someone’s home because they will know he knows how to act. Drench yourself in the wonder and beauty of the season ... we will all survive!
It's beautiful and I agree with you on Benjamin...we learned to not touch and my Mom never strayed from what she wanted to do in the house. Your a great Mom Laura!
You are doing a great job with Benjamin! He respects the cats and the chickens. And by involving him in the process of decorating the tree he feels ownership in the creation. He learns that things are breakable and it's not a crime if something does break. Thank you for sharing! Peace and Joy!
Glorious tree Laura...and parenting is hard. My Mum had a saying when I was growing up...look with your eyes and not your fingers. When out, we weren’t allowed to touch anything without permission...taught my children the same way....❄️🎄🥰😘🇦🇺
The tree is beautiful! Your parenting of your "Child", is 100% right! Teaching him at an early age boundaries and respect you're not going wrong! I applaud you and Aaron for all the hard work you put into your family and sharing your lives with us the viewers! God Bless and Merry Christmas!!
As a retired, 30 year public school teacher, a thousand "appreciations" to your teaching of Benjamin these "lifeskills" through your teachings at this age!
Your tree is beautiful!!🌲🌲🌲 And Benjamin looking for Russel is sooo cute!😊 And your parenting is spot on! Boundries and life skills early on will pay off later in life!😊
Love love love your tree!! I wish I had the knack for such talent!! As for Benjamin yes spend as much time with him! You can never get that time back!! Teaching him to not touch and respect is the best thing you can do for him!!
I was an antique dealer and I took my children with me all the time going to auctions, estate sales and antique malls. They were taught from babyhood not to touch and as a result we became known throughout the antique community and they were welcomed everywhere. Your tree looks lovely! Why not craft your own angel, you could incorporate fabric or ribbon that has a special meaning for you. You could use a doll figure from a craft store or perhaps you have a doll from your childhood you could use.
The tree turned out beautiful as usual and I loved Benjamin and Russell helping you out this year! The shot of Russell at the end was hilarious. I completely agree with your parenting approach and also glad that you are scaling back a bit this year. But let's be honest, your idea of scaling back is most people's version of amping up!!! Thanks for the Video!
I’m 60 years old and heard my mother’s and grandmother’s voices as I read your comment. I was brought up on that phrase and so was my daughter! Thanks for the memories.💕
Beautiful tree! I love that you are spending the time to teach your darling boy how to be mindful of things that are to look at and not touch. We were not heavy handed with our sons, but taught them to respect other people's objects as well as things in their own environment. Did it work all the time? Nope. But I have to say I didn't decorate to avoid mishaps. I did a certain amount of childproofing of our home for safety’s sake and I’m not gonna lie I did keep certain delicate items out of reach, but for the most part it worked well. Our cat is a different story...she’s a climber. You can't even see the cup hook in the ceiling that I use to anchor the tree!😳😬
I’m laughing so hard at Russell since I have a cat doing the same familiar crunch on the tree. Your tree is lovely and you are teaching Benjamin the right way. Love your channel it’s my favorite.❤️🥰
Beautiful!!!! Love your approach to parenting. Same way my mother brought me up. She never put things away, she just let me know they were off limits. Wishing your family all the best for the season!! ❤
Laura, none of us know what we're doing when it comes to raising our children, we simply do the best we can to raise our children with great morals and ethics. From what we have seen you and Aaron are great people and doing an amazing job raising Benjamin. 👪
A spray bottle for cats usually works to teach them what not to touch or when scratching what they shouldn't. You are doing a great job with Benjamin. Children and pets need to learn but you can't just tell them once and expect them to understand. I can see you are lovingly showing him and teaching him with great patience. It's beautiful to watch. Makes my heart happy that you want him to understand for not only your space but for everywhere. He's going to grow up to be a respectful young man.
Russell is my favorite 😂 I have three rowdy cats, so I understand! So much fun and mischief!!💖🎄Your tree is lovely. I LOVED this video! Do more decorating videos! Benjamin is a lucky boy 💖🎄
I think your idea about Benjamin is spot on! Of course, that's probably because we did the same thing - all the time, not just at Christmas. Now my boys are teenagers, and I loved seeing Benjamin's sweet hands helping with the tree! xo
I am a First Grade Teacher in Whitefish, MT(in my 30th year)...I love Garden Answer and Spot on with parenting....raised two boys and multiple cats....etc. You are a natural at all that you do....YOU Don't need to ANSWER to anyone. ....except GOD....of course...God Bless. Keep being the witness that you and your family are to all.
Please spend as much time with your little boy as possible! You have such a wonderful perspective on being a parent. My son is 26 and we just found out he is an addict and it has devastated our family. So enjoy the precious years before the world destoys your happiness. God bless you!
HELLO LAURA! LOVELY! MAY I ASK HOW MANY TREES YOU ARE DISPLAYING IN YOUR HOME THIS YR? AS FOR NOT "CATERING" TO BENJAMIN, I WISH MORE PARENTS UNDERSTOOD THAT CONCEPT. FROM WHAT I CAN TELL YOU ARE A GREAT MOMMY! BENJAMIN IS SO VERY BLESSED!
Beautiful! My boy is 11, and after many years of hard work and perseverance - he is the perfect guest. Kind, warm hearted, respectful, and helpful. He made me French toast this morning 🥰 and I enjoyed catching up on your life. So thankful for your channel in this Christmas season. Many thanks and blessings to your family from Lexington, KY.
I absolutely love spending time watching all of your videos...I especially enjoyed your parenting observations. I am recently retired from my 47 year first grade teaching career and it is refreshing to hear someone express the need to use everyday situations as teaching tools with their children. You will be greatly rewarded! The tree is lovely as is your family! Happiest of holidays!
I am an early childhood teacher of many, many years and I commend you for gently teaching Benjamin to enjoy looking at beaut things and respecting other people’s things. It takes a little work and consistency, but you’ll be very happy you did. So will other people, quite frankly! LOL,
This tree is perfect. I love how it turned out, and the tree itself is quite a treasure in itself. It looks like a real tree from where I am sitting. Your ornaments are beautiful, and I really love the tiny lights all over. I could go on and on. I love Christmas, and if anyone is not in the mood, they will be after viewing this video. Thank you.
My daughter put a 5' tree in my grandson's bedroom and decorated it with woodland themed ornaments and the only rule was they had to be break resistant. He could decorate to his hearts content, and one low branch was always loaded with ornaments. She would redecorate every morning but I actually loved to see the one loaded up, it was my favorite branch. He enjoyed his tree and now is very careful with the main tree that has breakables - they just need to learn. My favorite part of your tree is the items hung inside the 'holes' like a secret garden. What fun! We always hide a pickle ornament on Christmas Eve and everyone forgets about it in the morning until all the unwrapping takes place and then it's a race to find it - the winner gets a really good present. One year we got the front yard sign 'Mele Kalekemaka' since we are huge Christmas Vacation fans. Boy you have stirred up some holiday anticipation - YEA! Can't wait for your outside light show.
Beautiful tree and wonderful parenting skills! So many adults don’t teach their children boundaries anymore. I could go on a rant about that but I won’t. Great job all around 💚🙃
Gorgeous!!! It's stunning! I also agree with your parenting choice - teaching Benjamin boundaries now is wonderful - it's hard to be consistent, but honestly it is SO worth the effort! I love your priorities! Simple is good - these days with your sweet boy will FLY by!
it's refreshing to hear the respectful way you are teaching your son (who btw is super cute !). It's very loving to take the time and effort to help him develop good manners. God bless you !
Love the tree, love the ornaments, especially the kitty one at the end. 😸 I completely agree with your parenting method. Too many parents remove all “ obstacles” instead of teaching boundaries and respect. Those kids grow up to be teens & adults that have no coping skills and an erroneous sense of entitlement. Thanks for bring a touch of joy to the holiday season.
Yes to teaching children what they can and cannot touch! 🙂 For the cat...a clean spray bottle of water, quick squirt and a "No". They learn pretty quickly. My cat now likes to lay on the tree skirt but he doesn't bite the tree and pull ornaments anymore! 😊💕
I, too, never put things out of reach of my children but I did use a great idea of my Dads. Dad used to let us touch things that we just couldn’t leave alone with one finger. He would hold it and let us feel it all over with one finger. That did away with any grabbing. I used the same technique with our son who could have been a nightmare about picking up fragile things. I also had him put his hands in his pockets when we were somewhere with LOTS of pretties, then if he had to feel something I would hold it for him and he would touch with one finger. This way he could still walk because he did not like to be carried. He laughs because he still put his hands in his pockets to this day if he’s somewhere that has a lot of breakables………he’s 47. His wife loves this.
In my opinion, good job on teaching Benjamin early. You are a responsible parent. I for one appreciate that and respect it. After all, it takes more effort to teach than to just let them go. Beautiful tree! Merry Christmas!
“Russell... does what he wants”. I love it! My cats used to get in the tree. Then for about three years I hung a ceramic thing near each of their entry points with orange oil on it and that kept them away. Can also just used cotton balls. Then started adding a couple bells near the floor in the center so I could hear if they were under the tree, which I allow because I’m sure they love the tree way more than me since they choose to hang out under it. Thank you for ALL of your videos. Merry Christmas to all of you!
please do not expose orange oil to cats. It is toxic to them whether ingested, inhaled or touched on their paws/skin. Even if they don't get enough to kill them that year or make you take them to the vet it often causes kidney disease down the line.
You really are one of the best parents out there for teaching little Benjamin now about perimeters and respect - believe me you will see the positive effects of your parenting as he grows up! What a wonderful video that truly evokes the Christmas spirit!
Love your parenting style! I was taught the same! As kids my parents got compliments all the time about my brother & I because we were so well behaved when we went anywhere. We grew up in church setting and I think that helped a lot. We knew what to do and when to ask for something. We knew not to interrupt the adults and we helped get the food/table ready & cleaned up after dinner at whosever house we were at. I’m trying to instill what we learned to my 3 kids. You guys are doing amazing! Benjamin is so sweet! 😊
It is so nice to see you carry on the tradition of decorating your tree with ornaments you have collected over the years. We have some of my mother’s that are over sixty years old. We used to put up fresh Blue Spruce tress with really sharp needles which poked our new kitty every time he touched it.As a result he has stayed clear of all trees even the fake trees. It is wonderful to see you raise Benjamin with an appreciation of beautiful things. He is a delightful little boy!
You do such beautiful decorating you have really motivated me to do more gardening and getting in the Christmas spirit. Your parenting is spot on I was raised the same way and that's how I've raised my boys my mothers motto "Look with eyes not your hands" lol teaches respect for others
Yes!! Don’t cater. I have always put full decorations out no matter the age and they’ve learned not to touch them over time. Good job mom! Looks beautiful!
When my son was one (34 years ago) - husband put the Christmas tree in the playpen - son was on the outside looking in - one of my favorite pictures. The following year husband anchored the tree to the wall.
Laura the tree is gorgeous and bright! Parenting is so personal, but I couldn’t agree more with you. It was such a relief not to worry when we took our children places. They understood at a very early age about looking but not touching. Benjamin’s little hands trying so hard to place the ornament was precious. 💚❤️🎁🎄
1. Love the glitter on your face from decorating. 2. Love the final shot of Russell sleeping under the tree 3. Everything looks gorgeous. Love the stories of your ornaments 4. I am not a world traveler, sadly. But, I did get the trip of a lifetime, and went to Europe with my daughter. My favorite ornament is a white glass pine cone from Belgium. I'm an empty nester, with no pets. This year, all my ornaments are glass. Imagine my shock on thanksgiving, when I walked into my living room, where 7 adults were watching a 5 year old shoot his nerf gun into my tree! He'd rummage through the tree, get his bullets back, and go again! I wish his parents taught him to leave trees alone. Crisis was averted, he was very nice and did not shoot my tree anymore after I asked him not to. 😏. 5. And Benjamin clearly will be an excellent tree decorator in the future. You should get him trained on loving to fluff the branches as soon as possible. 🤣🤣. He is so cute.
The way to get more glitter in the center is to wrap the old glittery tinsel that you can still buy completely down the pole top to bottom. Great fill in for fake trees.
I love those quilted ornaments, the search is on! The cost of a few broken ornaments are so worth it for the lessons we teach our children. And that goes for pets too!
I always...always put ornaments "inside" my tree as well as the "outside." Also...I was the only person I knew who does it. lol Woohoo... I'm not alone. lol
Hi Lupa, I also do this with clear and frosted mm balls in the colorsnof the theme of my trees. It really created an inviting glow from the inside that draws people closer to the tree. I did one this year with champagne and rose gold bulbs at the center and pearl white, irridescent, and gold on the outside. Magical!
Wonderful tree! Wonderful parenting! I'm SO thankful for young parents who teach their children respect, restraint, and self discipline. It is becoming less and less common to the detriment of our society as a whole. So, bravo! He will thank you for it later!
Beautiful! I like working towards simplifying. Especially as a grandmother! It is a must to have a tree for our little grand ones coming, but simply this year with dried fruit garlands that I made, white lights, and evergreens. Decorations limited to the front porch, the tree and the mantle. Christmas decorations of past years have been given to my children to use in remembering Christmas' of past at home.
As a mentor mom in a young moms group - I APPLAUD YOU for POSITIVE parenting! Kids need to learn the meaning of "no - don't touch" That's how they grow up to be respectful adults. GOOD JOB🙂🌲
Love the last little shot of Russel sleeping on the tree skirt. My kitty, who was 17 years old, died right before Christmas last year and I miss her sleeping on the tree skirt. As soon as it was laid out she’d curl right up and sleep under the lights. ♥️
Hi Laura, Beautiful Job! I started watching a year ago when you were making bows for your Christmas Trees. And have been watching you do all your gardening and teaching me things with that also:) Thank you and Aaron for all the sharing you do with us!
Beautiful! I too have tons of Christmas decorations but over the past 5 years I started rotating what I took out each year. It simplified setup and take downs and made decorating fresh and new again as I took turns putting out old family favorites that hadn't been out in awhile. The outdoor lighted garlands and the lights in the magnolia tree however always came out. A gift to the neighborhood.🎄🎄☃️❄
Hi Laura! Please help , I've been trying to find the video in which you mention the color of the paint in this room. What color is it ? It's real pretty!
You are wise beyond your years. You are guiding Benjamin perfectly! And yes, enjoy all the time you have with him. Every last second!! My children are 30 and 35. The years just fly by. Make the very most of them!! Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!
Your tree looks beautiful! I was glad to hear that you're taking a step back this year and simplify. It's not good when we get too busy and can not enjoy the season for the special time it is. I think you are right on with your parenting philosophy. Loved the shot of Russell at the end. Happy Holidays!
Yes, Laura you are spot on with your parenting skills starting from the get go and especially with not catering to him. Your experiences at the store are valuable learning tools. He is absolutely prescious!
You have the most amazing decorations on the tree. I like your tree very much, the emptiness in your tree was at your advantage . You have been able to decorate the depth of thee the most amazin tree and your decos are still shinning through. Well done Laura. You are the most amazing lady in decorating your Christmas tree.
Your tree is beautiful, Laura. And I like your simplicity approach. Spending time with your darling son is much more important than decorating another tree. You are such a loving Mom!
Beautiful outcome Laura. I always enjoy seeing a traditional tree, along with the popular "themed" trees. Great job working with Benjamin. You are wise to prioritize your time. You will never get these years back with him. Merry Christmas to you and your precious family.
We have 8 kids - our youngest are 8 and almost 9 (and both have Down syndrome adopted from China) and I’ve always decorated our trees with fragile ornaments. It’s the best way to teach your children to respect things - have the expectation that they’ll enjoy it without destroying it. And it works - they will rise to your expectations. Lovely tree btw - it’s gorgeous!
The tree is beautiful! Thank you for so much inspiration! I just started my big tree today and I feel like I’ve been in a rut. 😂 Now I’ve got some new ideas! I sooooo agree with you about not removing every single thing from a child’s path! It teaches them how to manage in different circumstances. I may be going out on a limb, but to me (as mom to 5), it’s harder work to take the time to teach them what is safe or not. It seems like the easy way is to just remove everything from their path. I’m giving you a big “high five🖐” on the decision to teach him what he can and cannot touch. He’s a lucky little boy and so precious! ❤️💚👏🎄
Breathtaking! This was such a great video....little bits of cuteness and sheer beauty rolled into one wonderful treat for us. Benjamin is so precious and that last shot of Russel made me cry. Seriously..why do I cry? Thank you Laura🌲❤
Gorgeous tree! Every year for the past 32 years we’d go into the city..NYC. but after Christmas we’d make the special trip in to buy ornaments in all the best stores. Some would be marked down to $1 or less. We have hundreds of beautiful glass ornaments. Sadly, I won’t be using any this year. We have a new kitten, so I’m not taking the chance, as he is into everything as it is. I went to Dollar Tree . Congrats on raising your son the right way…my way. We taught our son not to touch mommy or daddy’s things from the beginning. He never touched anything on end tables, coffee tables and the like. He just knew. My little guy will be 38 in February and hasn’t broken anything in our home yet. Of course he lives elsewhere now and is teaching his children exactly as he had been taught. Way to go! Your tree is absolutely lovely. Anyone would be proud to have that tree in their home.
Laura, Love your tree. Benjamin is adorable, and you are so correct to let him know, what he's not allowed to touch. He will be welcome everywhere, because he has been taught what's allowed and what's not.
Absolutely beautiful! You are very wise, at your age, to realize spending as much time teaching your son. Time flies by way too fast. Blessings to you and your family.
Beautiful tree Laura. And that sweet little Benjamin , what a love bug. Spend as much time as you are able as you and Aaron are his first teachers. One day you will add special ornaments that Benjamin has made. They’ll be treasures forever 😊
Whenever she says Benjamin i always think of Garrett watts' babydoll 😂 anyway That's a lovely tree 😍 and that cute little baby angel sleeping under it 😽💕
Agree totally on your choice to teach your child good behaviors and to help him learn limits. This theory will serve you well as he grows. My kids knew which drawer in my kitchen they could get into and discover fun sounds, shapes, and textures. They knew what ‘no’ meant and they listened. Keep doing what you’re doing by sharing so many moments of your life and the life of your sweet family. God bless.
You’re tree is just beautiful. You’re doing the right thing with Benjamin . If taught early to respect things it will become a natural behavior as he gets older. As an educator of young children, the best way I found in teaching them ‘gently’ not to touch things that are off limits, is the expression, ‘Use your eyes’ rather than constantly say ‘don’t touch’ ! Believe me, it works.
You will never regret teaching Benjamin how to respect someone else’s property. He will always be welcome in someone’s home because they will know he knows how to act. Drench yourself in the wonder and beauty of the season ... we will all survive!
I love the final shot of Russell sleeping under the tree. He looks so peaceful.
It's Cheddar, that's why he looks so peaceful 😹😻
Melanie Ramos it is Russell.
Lol you guys!
Cheddar has an all over paler
Color with no white markings. Russel Has white markings in addition to his unique feet
Every tree has a ginger cat !!! (At least at my house )
It's beautiful and I agree with you on Benjamin...we learned to not touch and my Mom never strayed from what she wanted to do in the house. Your a great Mom Laura!
You are doing a great job with Benjamin! He respects the cats and the chickens. And by involving him in the process of decorating the tree he feels ownership in the creation. He learns that things are breakable and it's not a crime if something does break. Thank you for sharing! Peace and Joy!
Glorious tree Laura...and parenting is hard. My Mum had a saying when I was growing up...look with your eyes and not your fingers. When out, we weren’t allowed to touch anything without permission...taught my children the same way....❄️🎄🥰😘🇦🇺
That parenting technique makes so much sense. Benjamin will grow up to be a very well behaved boy. That tree is beautiful. Great job
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....especially since Laura's face is decorated with glitter! 😍
Love how glitter always ends up on her face.
I wrapped gifts on the deck of my treadmill last year and used a red glitter ribbon. My treadmill still looks fabulous!
The tree is beautiful! Your parenting of your "Child", is 100% right! Teaching him at an early age boundaries and respect you're not going wrong! I applaud you and Aaron for all the hard work you put into your family and sharing your lives with us the viewers! God Bless and Merry Christmas!!
ditto
Couldn't agree more with that!
All. 👏 Of. 👏 This.👏
I agree
As a retired, 30 year public school teacher, a thousand "appreciations" to your teaching of Benjamin these "lifeskills" through your teachings at this age!
Your tree is beautiful!!🌲🌲🌲 And Benjamin looking for Russel is sooo cute!😊 And your parenting is spot on! Boundries and life skills early on will pay off later in life!😊
Love love love your tree!! I wish I had the knack for such talent!! As for Benjamin yes spend as much time with him! You can never get that time back!! Teaching him to not touch and respect is the best thing you can do for him!!
I was an antique dealer and I took my children with me all the time going to auctions, estate sales and antique malls. They were taught from babyhood not to touch and as a result we became known throughout the antique community and they were welcomed everywhere.
Your tree looks lovely! Why not craft your own angel, you could incorporate fabric or ribbon that has a special meaning for you. You could use a doll figure from a craft store or perhaps you have a doll from your childhood you could use.
The tree turned out beautiful as usual and I loved Benjamin and Russell helping you out this year! The shot of Russell at the end was hilarious. I completely agree with your parenting approach and also glad that you are scaling back a bit this year. But let's be honest, your idea of scaling back is most people's version of amping up!!! Thanks for the Video!
"We look with our eyes, not with our hands!" That's me in every single store shopping with my kids 😂. That tree, though. Just beautiful.
I’m 60 years old and heard my mother’s and grandmother’s voices as I read your comment. I was brought up on that phrase and so was my daughter! Thanks for the memories.💕
You are doing Benjamin a great favor by teaching him to be well mannered.
Beautiful tree! I love that you are spending the time to teach your darling boy how to be mindful of things that are to look at and not touch.
We were not heavy handed with our sons, but taught them to respect other people's objects as well as things in their own environment. Did it work all the time? Nope. But I have to say I didn't decorate to avoid mishaps. I did a certain amount of childproofing of our home for safety’s sake and I’m not gonna lie I did keep certain delicate items out of reach, but for the most part it worked well.
Our cat is a different story...she’s a climber. You can't even see the cup hook in the ceiling that I use to anchor the tree!😳😬
Doing a simpler Christmas also. Sometimes simpler is needed and just as fun. It’s the spirit that’s more important..
The tree is beautiful Laura.. Russel approves.. an angel on top of your tree and one under it 😇
I like this comment
I’m laughing so hard at Russell since I have a cat doing the same familiar crunch on the tree. Your tree is lovely and you are teaching Benjamin the right way. Love your channel it’s my favorite.❤️🥰
Beautiful!!!!
Love your approach to parenting. Same way my mother brought me up. She never put things away, she just let me know they were off limits. Wishing your family all the best for the season!! ❤
Laura, none of us know what we're doing when it comes to raising our children, we simply do the best we can to raise our children with great morals and ethics. From what we have seen you and Aaron are great people and doing an amazing job raising Benjamin. 👪
My tree is going up. First time since my husband passed. . . Thank you for your glorious example.
You are teaching him right Laura, they won’t learn if you don’t start when they are young. Love the beautiful tree. ♥️
A spray bottle for cats usually works to teach them what not to touch or when scratching what they shouldn't. You are doing a great job with Benjamin. Children and pets need to learn but you can't just tell them once and expect them to understand. I can see you are lovingly showing him and teaching him with great patience. It's beautiful to watch. Makes my heart happy that you want him to understand for not only your space but for everywhere. He's going to grow up to be a respectful young man.
Russell is my favorite 😂 I have three rowdy cats, so I understand! So much fun and mischief!!💖🎄Your tree is lovely. I LOVED this video! Do more decorating videos! Benjamin is a lucky boy 💖🎄
I think your idea about Benjamin is spot on! Of course, that's probably because we did the same thing - all the time, not just at Christmas. Now my boys are teenagers, and I loved seeing Benjamin's sweet hands helping with the tree! xo
Love, love, love your approach to teaching Benjamin not everything is to be picked up/touched. Manners matter!!
I am a First Grade Teacher in Whitefish, MT(in my 30th year)...I love Garden Answer and Spot on with parenting....raised two boys and multiple cats....etc. You are a natural at all that you do....YOU Don't need to ANSWER to anyone. ....except GOD....of course...God Bless. Keep being the witness that you and your family are to all.
"I could fuss with this ribbon for hours." I can totally relate.
Please spend as much time with your little boy as possible! You have such a wonderful perspective on being a parent. My son is 26 and we just found out he is an addict and it has devastated our family. So enjoy the precious years before the world destoys your happiness. God bless you!
We need "We Love Russell" T-shirts !
Or "Russelling Through The Snow" 😉❄😄🐈
Most Definitely
You're doing a GREAT job with Benjamin! That's how the older generations were raised and it results in kids who know how to behave around others.
HELLO LAURA! LOVELY! MAY I ASK HOW MANY TREES YOU ARE DISPLAYING IN YOUR HOME THIS YR?
AS FOR NOT "CATERING" TO BENJAMIN, I WISH MORE PARENTS UNDERSTOOD THAT CONCEPT. FROM WHAT I CAN TELL YOU ARE A GREAT MOMMY! BENJAMIN IS SO VERY BLESSED!
Beautiful! My boy is 11, and after many years of hard work and perseverance - he is the perfect guest. Kind, warm hearted, respectful, and helpful. He made me French toast this morning 🥰 and I enjoyed catching up on your life. So thankful for your channel in this Christmas season. Many thanks and blessings to your family from Lexington, KY.
I absolutely love spending time watching all of your videos...I especially enjoyed your parenting observations. I am recently retired from my 47 year first grade teaching career and it is refreshing to hear someone express the need to use everyday situations as teaching tools with their children. You will be greatly rewarded! The tree is lovely as is your family! Happiest of holidays!
I am an early childhood teacher of many, many years and I commend you for gently teaching Benjamin to enjoy looking at beaut things and respecting other people’s things. It takes a little work and consistency, but you’ll be very happy you did. So will other people, quite frankly! LOL,
This tree is perfect. I love how it turned out, and the tree itself is quite a treasure in itself. It looks like a real tree from where I am sitting. Your ornaments are beautiful, and I really love the tiny lights all over. I could go on and on. I love Christmas, and if anyone is not in the mood, they will be after viewing this video. Thank you.
My daughter put a 5' tree in my grandson's bedroom and decorated it with woodland themed ornaments and the only rule was they had to be break resistant. He could decorate to his hearts content, and one low branch was always loaded with ornaments. She would redecorate every morning but I actually loved to see the one loaded up, it was my favorite branch. He enjoyed his tree and now is very careful with the main tree that has breakables - they just need to learn. My favorite part of your tree is the items hung inside the 'holes' like a secret garden. What fun! We always hide a pickle ornament on Christmas Eve and everyone forgets about it in the morning until all the unwrapping takes place and then it's a race to find it - the winner gets a really good present. One year we got the front yard sign 'Mele Kalekemaka' since we are huge Christmas Vacation fans. Boy you have stirred up some holiday anticipation - YEA! Can't wait for your outside light show.
Beautiful tree and wonderful parenting skills! So many adults don’t teach their children boundaries anymore. I could go on a rant about that but I won’t. Great job all around 💚🙃
Gorgeous!!! It's stunning! I also agree with your parenting choice - teaching Benjamin boundaries now is wonderful - it's hard to be consistent, but honestly it is SO worth the effort! I love your priorities! Simple is good - these days with your sweet boy will FLY by!
Right on target with little Benjamin!!!
it's refreshing to hear the respectful way you are teaching your son (who btw is super cute !). It's very loving to take the time and effort to help him develop good manners. God bless you !
Love the tree, love the ornaments, especially the kitty one at the end. 😸 I completely agree with your parenting method. Too many parents remove all “ obstacles” instead of teaching boundaries and respect. Those kids grow up to be teens & adults that have no coping skills and an erroneous sense of entitlement. Thanks for bring a touch of joy to the holiday season.
Amen to that!
Yes to teaching children what they can and cannot touch! 🙂 For the cat...a clean spray bottle of water, quick squirt and a "No". They learn pretty quickly. My cat now likes to lay on the tree skirt but he doesn't bite the tree and pull ornaments anymore! 😊💕
The tree is gorgeous and I applaud that you're teaching boundaries to Benjamin.
Laura, I found that our tree was too bright also. So I bought a dimmer attachment. What a great difference. It also turns the tree lights off.
Such a beautiful tree, and I enjoy all of the music you and Aaron select for your videos!
I, too, never put things out of reach of my children but I did use a great idea of my Dads. Dad used to let us touch things that we just couldn’t leave alone with one finger. He would hold it and let us feel it all over with one finger. That did away with any grabbing. I used the same technique with our son who could have been a nightmare about picking up fragile things. I also had him put his hands in his pockets when we were somewhere with LOTS of pretties, then if he had to feel something I would hold it for him and he would touch with one finger. This way he could still walk because he did not like to be carried. He laughs because he still put his hands in his pockets to this day if he’s somewhere that has a lot of breakables………he’s 47. His wife loves this.
Awww the kitty under the tree how sweet is he. I just want to snuggle this cat!
In my opinion, good job on teaching Benjamin early. You are a responsible parent. I for one appreciate that and respect it. After all, it takes more effort to teach than to just let them go. Beautiful tree! Merry Christmas!
“Russell... does what he wants”. I love it! My cats used to get in the tree. Then for about three years I hung a ceramic thing near each of their entry points with orange oil on it and that kept them away. Can also just used cotton balls. Then started adding a couple bells near the floor in the center so I could hear if they were under the tree, which I allow because I’m sure they love the tree way more than me since they choose to hang out under it. Thank you for ALL of your videos. Merry Christmas to all of you!
Patty Conan if you add tin foil into your tree they will leave it alone. They hate the tin foil
please do not expose orange oil to cats. It is toxic to them whether ingested, inhaled or touched on their paws/skin. Even if they don't get enough to kill them that year or make you take them to the vet it often causes kidney disease down the line.
Marci Miller oh my goodness, thank you for that information.
You really are one of the best parents out there for teaching little Benjamin now about perimeters and respect - believe me you will see the positive effects of your parenting as he grows up! What a wonderful video that truly evokes the Christmas spirit!
Love your parenting style! I was taught the same! As kids my parents got compliments all the time about my brother & I because we were so well behaved when we went anywhere. We grew up in church setting and I think that helped a lot. We knew what to do and when to ask for something. We knew not to interrupt the adults and we helped get the food/table ready & cleaned up after dinner at whosever house we were at. I’m trying to instill what we learned to my 3 kids.
You guys are doing amazing! Benjamin is so sweet! 😊
Teach your kids at home so they can behave properly when they go out. Absolutely, yes!!!
It is so nice to see you carry on the tradition of decorating your tree with ornaments you have collected over the years. We have some of my mother’s that are over sixty years old. We used to put up fresh Blue Spruce tress with really sharp needles which poked our new kitty every time he touched it.As a result he has stayed clear of all trees even the fake trees. It is wonderful to see you raise Benjamin with an appreciation of beautiful things. He is a delightful little boy!
You do such beautiful decorating you have really motivated me to do more gardening and getting in the Christmas spirit. Your parenting is spot on I was raised the same way and that's how I've raised my boys my mothers motto "Look with eyes not your hands" lol teaches respect for others
Yes!! Don’t cater. I have always put full decorations out no matter the age and they’ve learned not to touch them over time. Good job mom! Looks beautiful!
I was told to put up a gate around our tree - nope! Baby gon learn today! 😂
That is good parenting. It starts at home is a true statement. The tree looks beautiful love that Benjamin and Russel were so active in this filming.
When my son was one (34 years ago) - husband put the Christmas tree in the playpen - son was on the outside looking in - one of my favorite pictures. The following year husband anchored the tree to the wall.
Laura the tree is gorgeous and bright! Parenting is so personal, but I couldn’t agree more with you. It was such a relief not to worry when we took our children places. They understood at a very early age about looking but not touching. Benjamin’s little hands trying so hard to place the ornament was precious. 💚❤️🎁🎄
1. Love the glitter on your face from decorating.
2. Love the final shot of Russell sleeping under the tree
3. Everything looks gorgeous. Love the stories of your ornaments
4. I am not a world traveler, sadly. But, I did get the trip of a lifetime, and went to Europe with my daughter. My favorite ornament is a white glass pine cone from Belgium. I'm an empty nester, with no pets. This year, all my ornaments are glass. Imagine my shock on thanksgiving, when I walked into my living room, where 7 adults were watching a 5 year old shoot his nerf gun into my tree! He'd rummage through the tree, get his bullets back, and go again! I wish his parents taught him to leave trees alone. Crisis was averted, he was very nice and did not shoot my tree anymore after I asked him not to. 😏.
5. And Benjamin clearly will be an excellent tree decorator in the future. You should get him trained on loving to fluff the branches as soon as possible. 🤣🤣. He is so cute.
The way to get more glitter in the center is to wrap the old glittery tinsel that you can still buy completely down the pole top to bottom. Great fill in for fake trees.
I'm watching this again. Love your Christmas decorating spirit and style. Merry Christmas to your family! 😀
I love those quilted ornaments, the search is on! The cost of a few broken ornaments are so worth it for the lessons we teach our children. And that goes for pets too!
I always...always put ornaments "inside" my tree as well as the "outside." Also...I was the only person I knew who does it. lol Woohoo... I'm not alone. lol
oh no - your so not alone!😅
Hi Lupa,
I also do this with clear and frosted mm balls in the colorsnof the theme of my trees. It really created an inviting glow from the inside that draws people closer to the tree. I did one this year with champagne and rose gold bulbs at the center and pearl white, irridescent, and gold on the outside. Magical!
I put Christmas Ornament on the inside first...
Wonderful tree! Wonderful parenting! I'm SO thankful for young parents who teach their children respect, restraint, and self discipline. It is becoming less and less common to the detriment of our society as a whole. So, bravo! He will thank you for it later!
Beautiful! I like working towards simplifying. Especially as a grandmother! It is a must to have a tree for our little grand ones coming, but simply this year with dried fruit garlands that I made, white lights, and evergreens. Decorations limited to the front porch, the tree and the mantle. Christmas decorations of past years have been given to my children to use in remembering Christmas' of past at home.
As a mentor mom in a young moms group - I APPLAUD YOU for POSITIVE parenting! Kids need to learn the meaning of "no - don't touch" That's how they grow up to be respectful adults. GOOD JOB🙂🌲
The cats love the trees. one of ours always climbed it and played with a favourite ornament she liked.
Love the last little shot of Russel sleeping on the tree skirt. My kitty, who was 17 years old, died right before Christmas last year and I miss her sleeping on the tree skirt. As soon as it was laid out she’d curl right up and sleep under the lights. ♥️
Hi Laura, Beautiful Job! I started watching a year ago when you were making bows for your Christmas Trees. And have been watching you do all your gardening and teaching me things with that also:) Thank you and Aaron for all the sharing you do with us!
I LOVE your parenting plan. Working retail for years and watching not so perfect behavior by little ones, I feel your plan is GREAT!
Beautiful! I too have tons of Christmas decorations but over the past 5 years I started rotating what I took out each year. It simplified setup and take downs and made decorating fresh and new again as I took turns putting out old family favorites that hadn't been out in awhile. The outdoor lighted garlands and the lights in the magnolia tree however always came out. A gift to the neighborhood.🎄🎄☃️❄
Keep the angel. She might not be perfect, but she’s family history. Those family traditions and memories are so special.
Stunning tree, Laura! .... and absolutely on point with your ideas about teaching Benjamin🌺
Hi Laura! Please help , I've been trying to find the video in which you mention the color of the paint in this room. What color is it ? It's real pretty!
You are wise beyond your years. You are guiding Benjamin perfectly! And yes, enjoy all the time you have with him. Every last second!! My children are 30 and 35. The years just fly by. Make the very most of them!! Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family!
Your tree looks beautiful! I was glad to hear that you're taking a step back this year and simplify. It's not good when we get too busy and can not enjoy the season for the special time it is. I think you are right on with your parenting philosophy. Loved the shot of Russell at the end. Happy Holidays!
Thank you for responsible parenting tips for people. I work in retail. So thank you! Greatly appreciated!
You are absolutely right teaching your child respect of things. You will see that he will self discipline himself as he gets older! Love the tree!❤️
Yes, Laura you are spot on with your parenting skills starting from the get go and especially with not catering to him. Your experiences at the store are valuable learning tools. He is absolutely prescious!
You have the most amazing decorations on the tree. I like your tree very much, the emptiness in your tree was at your advantage . You have been able to decorate the depth of thee the most amazin tree and your decos are still shinning through. Well done Laura. You are the most amazing lady in decorating your Christmas tree.
Your tree is beautiful, Laura. And I like your simplicity approach. Spending time with your darling son is much more important than decorating another tree. You are such a loving Mom!
Beautiful outcome Laura. I always enjoy seeing a traditional tree, along with the popular "themed" trees. Great job working with Benjamin. You are wise to prioritize your time. You will never get these years back with him. Merry Christmas to you and your precious family.
We have 8 kids - our youngest are 8 and almost 9 (and both have Down syndrome adopted from China) and I’ve always decorated our trees with fragile ornaments. It’s the best way to teach your children to respect things - have the expectation that they’ll enjoy it without destroying it. And it works - they will rise to your expectations. Lovely tree btw - it’s gorgeous!
The tree is beautiful! Thank you for so much inspiration! I just started my big tree today and I feel like I’ve been in a rut. 😂 Now I’ve got some new ideas! I sooooo agree with you about not removing every single thing from a child’s path! It teaches them how to manage in different circumstances. I may be going out on a limb, but to me (as mom to 5), it’s harder work to take the time to teach them what is safe or not. It seems like the easy way is to just remove everything from their path. I’m giving you a big “high five🖐” on the decision to teach him what he can and cannot touch. He’s a lucky little boy and so precious! ❤️💚👏🎄
I just have to say.... your parenting skills are AWESOME! You are doing a great job😘. I love watching your channel!
Hobby lobby has some pretty Angel's and Santa's for toppers that are more than 15 inches high. Hope that helps.
I totally agree with your parenting beliefs! Teaching is so much more beneficial to kids than catering to them. And your tree is gorgeous!
Breathtaking! This was such a great video....little bits of cuteness and sheer beauty rolled into one wonderful treat for us. Benjamin is so precious and that last shot of Russel made me cry. Seriously..why do I cry? Thank you Laura🌲❤
Gorgeous tree! Every year for the past 32 years we’d go into the city..NYC. but after Christmas we’d make the special trip in to buy ornaments in all the best stores. Some would be marked down to $1 or less. We have hundreds of beautiful glass ornaments. Sadly, I won’t be using any this year. We have a new kitten, so I’m not taking the chance, as he is into everything as it is. I went to Dollar Tree . Congrats on raising your son the right way…my way. We taught our son not to touch mommy or daddy’s things from the beginning. He never touched anything on end tables, coffee tables and the like. He just knew. My little guy will be 38 in February and hasn’t broken anything in our home yet. Of course he lives elsewhere now and is teaching his children exactly as he had been taught. Way to go! Your tree is absolutely lovely. Anyone would be proud to have that tree in their home.
Our cat is naughty just like Russell. Your tree is lovely.
Laura, Love your tree. Benjamin is adorable, and you are so correct to let him know, what he's not allowed to touch. He will be welcome everywhere, because he has been taught what's allowed and what's not.
Can you have a christmas house tour and Christmas Yard tour in night to see your beautiful Christmas lights
Just beautiful. You are so talented and creative. Russell sleeping under the tree was absolutely heartwarming. Purrrecious =^..^=.
The angel looks like shes up in heaven. cute!
Absolutely beautiful! You are very wise, at your age, to realize spending as much time teaching your son. Time flies by way too fast. Blessings to you and your family.
Beautiful tree! Great parenting. When mine were that age I’d say “Look with your eyes, not with your hands.”
Beautiful tree Laura. And that sweet little Benjamin , what a love bug. Spend as much time as you are able as you and Aaron are his first teachers. One day you will add special ornaments that Benjamin has made. They’ll be treasures forever 😊
Whenever she says Benjamin i always think of Garrett watts' babydoll 😂 anyway That's a lovely tree 😍 and that cute little baby angel sleeping under it 😽💕
Agree totally on your choice to teach your child good behaviors and to help him learn limits. This theory will serve you well as he grows. My kids knew which drawer in my kitchen they could get into and discover fun sounds, shapes, and textures. They knew what ‘no’ meant and they listened. Keep doing what you’re doing by sharing so many moments of your life and the life of your sweet family. God bless.