We've hopped on the Elf on the Shelf bandwagon. Well, we had him last year, but Phee was still little and we didn't do anything more than hide him around the house as a sort of hide-and-seek game. She enjoyed it, but it really wasn't anything special. He did acquire a name last year, though: Lion. Go figure.Anyway, this year, I wanted to have more fun with the whole process. But, I don't always have a lot of time to do some of the more elaborate setups that I've seen from friends and Pinterest. I've been coming up with some quick and easy ideas for our little Lion.
Also, if anyone is curious, we don't use the book or actual premise of the elf. I think the book is kind of creepy. So, we tell Ophelia that Lion just comes to see us every year to help spread Christmas cheer and spirit.
The first night, our tubs of Christmas decorations were still out. I set Lion up with some little snowmen Phee got last year and he had fun catching up with old friends.
The next night, Lion wanted to check out Phee's stash of coloring books. He had fun, but Phee was not pleased with him in the morning. She moved him and made him sit on a shelf while she was at school all day.
By the third night, Lion was ready to explore some more of the house so he helped himself to a tea party in Phee's kitchen.
After a tea party of fake food, Lion was ready for real sugar. Phee thought this one was pretty funny and kept holding up the stuffed animal she was taking to school so he could see what Lion was doing.
Lion really got into the Christmas spirit last night by decorating our ficus tree. I just used some patterned scrapbook paper to make a small paper chain for him to use.
What fun things has your elf done so far this year? I'll have more ideas next week! I'm still formulating plans, but I'll also have ideas for those of you traveling at the holidays, whether you'll be taking your Elf with you or not. Stay tuned!
Update: Here's part 2 of the Elf on the Shelf series this year!