Elf on the Shelf: Creepy or Cool?

It’s that time of year again.? Every rule-following Scout Elf will be heading back to their winter home this week, taking up residence on a nearby shelf or table, ready to spy on children and parents alike.

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“What’s an Elf on the Shelf”, you ask?? Only the creepiest thing since Jim Carrey’s role as Grinch, or Oogie Boogie from Nightmare Before Christmas!? That is, unless you are under the age of about 12 years old.? In that case they are your lifeline to Santa Claus himself…which probably makes them seem pretty cool!

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The Elf on the Shelf was “born” in 2004 when a book of the same name was released.? It details the “Scout Elves” that Santa employs to watch over the millions of children and report back on their behavior.? Based on that lore, families began buying up these innocent looking elves and inviting them into their homes.? Many were “adopted” by their new hosts, given a holiday-themed name like "Jingles" or "Sparkles", and then offered the run of the house.? These elves may have permanent smiling faces, but at night they move about your house, creating mischief and intrigue.? Super creepy, right?!

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Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you have probably heard of them.? They seem to be the rage among young children these days.? Every child awakens excited to search the house and find the elf mischief that took place overnight.? Every adult begrudgingly losing sleep trying to top the tricks and games that the neighbor’s Elf contrived the night before.? A swift internet search will reveal Elf pranks that run the gamut from innocuous to risqué.? After seeing pictures of the evidence left behind, I don’t understand how people can get a solid night’s sleep with these malevolent pixies roaming free throughout their houses!

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As the days of December pass by take a hard look at the tell-tale weary eyes of your friends and co-workers.? This nighttime ritual will begin to take a toll on them very soon.? Coming up with something new and fanciful every night must be exhausting!? And then there’s the pressure from that one co-worker (we all have one) that excels at this frivolity.? They sweep into the office looking rested and happy, regaling all who will listen with stories and even pictures of the funny and creative events that their elf contrives day in and day out.? Peer pressure truly extends beyond high school!

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The good news is that these spying shelf elves have a shelf-life of their own, beginning soon after Thanksgiving Day and culminating on Christmas Eve.? Stay strong, my friends. Soon enough this madness will come to an end and you will earn your 11 months reprieve without the need to look over your shoulder during the day to see those lifeless eyes staring at you.? After Santa makes his appearance in late December, you and your family will once again be able to rest easy and dream peacefully.?

Until then, tread lightly and sleep with one eye open!