I wanted to share a story about how my eight-year old and I have bonded over bonsai. That’s right, in a world filled with Hannah Montana, the Jonas Brothers, and the like, who would have thought that she’d prefer to spend her time (okay, some of her time) learning more about bonsai?

It all started last fall when she had her birthday.  Knowing that she would receive more than enough toys and clothes, her mother and I decided to try a different route and picked out a bonsai for her. I’ve been a bonsai enthusiast for years, so at least this wouldn’t be a completely unknown item for her.

At first she showed a little disinterest – which I chalk up to the feeding-atmosphere of the party and her looking for more of the same time of present. But after everyone left and things calmed down, she told us how cool she thought it was.

We moved it into her room (into just the right spot!) and gave her some basic care instructions. For the first few weeks, we did everything together, which turned into a great way for her to ask questions, learn more, and apply her knowledge. She even named the tree Woody – pun obviously intended!

As the weeks progressed, we moved passed basic watering care and began to prune a little. Like any child, her instincts were to keep going, so I had to put the brakes on – otherwise we would have wound up with something in between a newly shorn sheep and the Charlie Brown Christmas tree. She also brought it to school this spring as her contribution to the Show and Tell.  As a parent always trying to encourage my kids to be original and not follow the herd, this was a shining moment. It the midst of all the clutter of plastic toys, stuffed animals, and collecting cards, there stood a real-live bonsai tree – testament to someone daring to do something a little different and being admired for it. Even the class bully showed a little interest, which made it a great learning experience for my daughter.

So, next time you’re on the hook for a gift for that child who has everything, think bonsai. As long as you’re willing to spend the time “caring and sharing,” it should turn out all right. But just a warning to those parents who think they can get it and forget it, maybe you’re better off with the new Jonas Brothers CD.

Guest Blogger - Jason