The Kindness Elves

The idea of 'Elf on the Shelf' has never really appealed to me because I didn't really see the point of using an elf to threaten the consequences of bad behavior. If anything, the elf seems to promote bad behavior by his, admittedly hilarious, acts of mischief. I can't say I've never used the phrase "Santa is watching" in moments of crisis, but I really prefer not to. We would rather encourage the thought that we give because we love someone, not because they have earned it. I love Santa and appreciate he wants children to be good. And there is nothing that compares to that Christmas morning magic. But for us, bringing in a tattle-telling-elf just seemed like a lot of extra work, knowing we wouldn't actually follow through with reporting any bad behavior to Santa. That guy is coming no matter what, not to mention the magnitude of spoiling that occurs from all the other loved ones in our kids lives. 

Kirk and I decided to avoid the 'Elf on the Shelf' concept all together, agreeing it just wasn't a sensible option for our family. Although I do still enjoy seeing photos on the internet of elf scenarios others come up with. This year I read about an idea known as "The Kindness Elves" and this rendition of the elf game really seemed to align with how we choose to celebrate Christmas. These elves "do not play pranks or make messes at night, they are giving and gentle and full of love's light." I adopted some elves via The North Pole and they magically appeared on our doorstep with a letter explaining, "Santa sent us to you to help spread Christmas cheer." Their letter goes on about how Christmas isn't all about toys and finally concludes with, "So give back to your loved ones & those in need, we are here to help you think of lots of good deeds." Yes, a little cheesy, but you get the idea. 

Lyla asked for my help making a house for the new elves.
I suggested that she jazz it up a bit, but she claimed the elves like it plain.

Also, I feel like elves belong in the same category as clowns...
always looking slightly creepy no matter what.

There is no denying our family lives in a world of abundance, but it's my hope the good deeds of these elves will help us avoid turning [spoiled] rotten. I've found the balance of keeping my kids thankful and kind is often like walking a tightrope, which is okay because they are still learning. They are blessed beyond measure in all things, both tangible & not. I'm hoping this is a tradition that will continue to evolve as the kiddos get older and hopefully help keep their sense of entitlement from exploding around Christmas time.

My theory: Spoiled = Okay. Spoiled Rotten = Not Okay.

Anyway, if you see any mention on the blog about our elves, now you will know what it's all about. The kids named each of their elves --- Elle & Bean. Lyla opened the box and exclaimed, "Oh my gosh! I've been wanting an elf just like this for years and years." Lol. She is such a dork. We will spend the next twelve days with them and we're excited to experience the simple acts of kindness they have to share. 

In the event any aspect of the plan backfires, I will certainly share the stories of failure which should at least make for a good laugh.

Merry Christmas!