If you have little ones in your life, you’re probably aware of Elf on a Shelf (affiliate link).
I’ve noted that Elf on a Shelf is actually better than an advent calendar because it’s a nice way to count down to Christmas that doesn’t involve daily candy and/or small presents.
The problem, of course, is that in order to keep the “magic” of the elf going, you have to be diligent about moving the elf from spot to spot around your house from the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas day.
And if you travel during this time period, the elf has to show up wherever you are. Because he’s magic, and he knows how to find his family each morning when he comes back from giving his report to Santa each night at the North Pole.
Heck, you have to remember where you stored that darn elf the day after Christmas last year. (Does anyone even remember what they did the day after Christmas last year?)
Our “Elfie” has shown up in New York City and Massachusetts. It’s not easy to secretly transport and strategically place an elf from one location to another while you are traveling and the kids are running around yelling things like “I wonder where Elfie is!” “Where do you think Elfie will be when we get there?!” All while I’m nudging my husband to get the elf and find a spot for it while I’m yelling, “It’s been a long trip. Go potty before you look for Elfie!”
So, I guess what I’m saying is that the elf stresses me out. The honeymoon is over. He’s a lot of responsibility. And if you screw up, you can totally ruin the magic of Christmas. G is 7 now and is able to figure this thing out with one small slip up.
Plus, let’s face it, the elf is a tad bit creepy looking.
Now, don’t get me wrong, the Elf on a Shelf has its merits. It is a cute idea (that I totally wish I had), and you can use the elf as leverage when your kids aren’t behaving as well as you’d like.
It’s just that the websites and blogs that are all about being “creative” about your Elf on the Shelf are kind of killing me right now. I’m not the type that will stage an elf doing some sort of “naughty” thing, whether it’s good or bad.
I’m lucky if I remember to move the Elfie. (Sidenote: If anyone wants to start a website/service that sends out daily reminders to move your Elf or keep track of where you put it, let me know.)
Look at what a simple Google search turns ups for Elf on the Shelf:
Actually, that last one is totally worth visiting.
Do you have an Elf on the Shelf? Do you get creative or are you just lucky to remember to move it?
