This is the first year in many years that I was excited about the elf on the shelf.
This is how my life goes. It never fails at the beginning of the month. I am excited, ready to go. A few days in, I forget to move the darn things. Which starts the downward spiral. I end up stressing myself out, becoming resentful over an activity that should be fun and joyful.
I want it to be fun again.
I love the idea of elf on the shelf. Spreading a little extra holiday cheer. Good clean fun. The smile on my children’s face when they see what their elf did the night before.
I hate the comparison trap. I hate what it has become. I hate having to go bigger and bigger every year.
What happened to small acts of silliness? When did the elf starting acting a fool? Much less bringing presents?
My oldest daughter is my backup elf mover. On the nights I forgot to move the elves, she always did. With her away at college, I had to step it up.
This year I made a promise to myself. I was going to keep it simple and fun. It was all about jokes this year.
This year was the best. I had fun with the elves. I remembered to move them every night. I didn’t need my trusty backup.
The best part was the little one loved the jokes. The ones she didn’t understand, I explained.
The hidden blessing this year, was the night the elves made the Dominos pizza. I had to go to granny’s house to get the Dominos. When I opened the case, I found scorecards from when everyone played dominos with Grandaddy. Seeing the scorecards brought back memories and tears to my eyes. I love that my children had the chance to play and spend time with him. When I showed my children the cards, they smiled and starting talking about him. He left an imprint on their souls. I am forever thankful.
Literally the easiest year of the elf on the shelf ever.
Here are a few of my favorite setups for this year.
My favorite idea...
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