Thinking of You — Living Christmas Tree — Holiday, Christmas, Sympathy Card

I have to admit, I was afraid to make a holiday collection because there are so many card makers out there doing iconic holiday imagery. How do you bring something new to the conversation?

I thought it would be just my kind of illustration to do a living Christmas tree with woodland creatures, but I was afraid to make something that had already been done.

Then a customer requested one, and I figured, “Well, I haven't done one yet!”

As I drew, more and more animals started showing up.

A pair of cardinals. A rabbit, a deer, a squirrel. All feasting because of someone's thoughtfulness.

I intentionally didn't want this card to say “Merry Christmas!” or “Happy Holidays!”

Cardinals have special symbolism for many people, representing visits from loved ones who have died.

I wanted this to be a card you could send to someone who might not feel like this time of year is particularly “merry” or “happy.” 

The holidays can hold a particular kind of weighty grief when you’re missing someone. An acknowledgment of that in a beautiful card might be the biggest gift you give to a loved one this season. 

Of course, we think a lot about versatility with our cards and want them to be useful for a variety of situations. This could also be sent as a joyful “thinking of you” card!

I hope this traditional subject matter fills an overlooked need in your stationery stash, and helps you reach out to someone who could use a little love during the holidays.