Every year, our elf on the shelf, “Cornelius”, comes down from the North Pole to watch over our kids and report his findings back to Santa.  For the last couple of years I have jumped on the creative side of the Elf on a Shelf and have tried to come up with creative, fun ways for our little guy to get into mischief.
I know many people who feel like this is a burden or “showy” way to express Christmas spirit.  I don’t see it as a contest as to who’s the best mom or anything like that, but more of a way to entertain myself.  I love seeing what ideas other people come up with!
I have to say, the boys laugh at Cornelius’ antics, but Erin wakes up in the morning and goes looking for him…and squeals with joy the minute she finds him.  Then  looks wide eyed at me and says something like, “oh he is so naughty!”
I hope you enjoy Cornelius as much as I do!

(the kids didn’t get this one…the SNL skit D&%k in a Box)

We are a lucky, lucky family.  We may not have a lot in the financial dept, that being said, we make ends mostly meet and our kids are in no way lacking.  We are RICH, though, in love and amazing people in our lives.  For that, I will always be grateful.  We work to teach our kids that you can show your love and appreciation by being thoughtful and being thoughtful can be something small.
I love giving, but it’s hard for me to be on the receiving end.
Yesterday I went out to get in the car to go to the store and on the windshield was a card from our “secret santa” with Christmas tree money in it.  Seriously stopped me in my tracks.  I want to do something nice for that person, to thank them!
We went out and bought a beautiful tree last night and the kids can’t wait to decorate it.  I am looking forward to pulling out all of our special ornaments and watching the kids stroll down memory lane.  So, thank you, Secret Santa for making this happen for our family!  It is truly appreciated.