Bernard, our Elf, arrived for my daughter’s first Christmas in 2009, but he kept it super simple until she was older. Once she was excited to find him each morning things started to get crazy! In 2012, Bernard took on a life of his own and since then, he has never done the same thing twice. It can be exhausting, but so is everything else, and this is so magical that it’s totally worth it!!
Over the years I’ve had people that love my elf and people that think I’m crazy. Most people can’t believe “how much free time I have” but those that really know me, know I have no time for anything. There are a few tricks I have learned over the years that might be helpful.
- Use things you already own. Do not go crazy buying all the brand name elf gear. Most of it is not worth it. You have more mini things in your house than you know. Just keep your eyes peeled.
- Talk to your kids about how silly the elf is and let them “make predictions” as to what he might do next. I’ve gotten so many of my ideas straight from my kids’ mouths.
- Use categories to organize yourself. Your elf can bring a gift, make a mess, send you on a scavenger hunt, steal something that you have to find, draw something, wrap something etc.
- Start planning BEFORE he arrives! This one is major. No one can do these elaborate elf shenanigans at 4:30 in the morning. It has to be planned! Collect props throughout the year.
- Search Pinterest! 😉
Submitted by Courtney, a Middlesex County Mom and Official North Pole Elf Helper
