As I remember, sometime back in the early 1980s, my dad, Dan McCornack, began a tradition of making a Christmas piñata for the kids every year. Some years he came up with the idea for the character or item on his own, and some years it was suggested by one or another of his grandkids. He gamely kept up the tradition year after year, and until his passing in 2005 Grandpa Dan’s piñata was a fundamental part of our family Christmas.
After we lost Dad, maintaining the tradition of the piñata became a way to remember him as we celebrated each year’s holidays. I’ve done my best to maintain the spirit of his constructions. This of course meant learning how to do serious paper maché and getting my hands and clothes all messy in the process. But I think I also learned why he kept doing it; it’s awfully fun. As a side note, if you have an interest in paper maché, check out ultimatepapermache.com, put together by a genuine paper maché artist, Jonni Good.
For 2022, William suggested that the piñata should be The Polar Express train, which he knows from the movie and book. Through some collection of miracles, I managed to get it done in time for Christmas. Below are some photos. I hope it adds to your enjoyment of the season. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!