A few years ago, during a casual phone chat, my mom mentioned she had sent me something special. “Have you heard of the Elf on the Shelf? The kids in my preschool class can’t stop talking about it!” As a preschool teacher, she always seemed ahead of the curve when it came to holiday fads. She often spoiled my kids with the latest toys or festive ideas, making me look like the coolest mom on the block. I appreciated it—most of the time.
But when it came to our little elf, Jingle, who joined our family five years ago, I still harbor some resentment. I can’t help but blame my mom for the chaos that ensues each December. Sorry, Mom, but Jingle is the bane of my holiday existence.
As the holidays draw near, a wave of dread washes over me. I brace myself for the upcoming 24 days of hiding that little felt nuisance throughout our home, convincing my kids that he’s been darting back and forth to the North Pole overnight. It’s astonishing how easily they fall for it. When one of them innocently asks, “When is Jingle coming back?” as soon as the autumn leaves begin to fall, I know I’m gearing up for a month of creative elf antics.
Sure, my intentions are good. My kids absolutely light up when they discover Jingle engaged in some whimsical escapade, whether it’s battling Lego villains or having a snowball fight with marshmallow “snowballs.” We all cherish that fleeting magic of childhood belief, and I know I’ll be a teary mess when they eventually stop believing in Santa.
However, pulling off Jingle’s mischievous antics is a Herculean task! Here’s a glimpse into my month with Jingle, a sort of log of my descent into Elf on the Shelf madness.
November 29
Where did I stash that little rascal again?
December 1
Jingle made his grand entrance with a note from Santa that brought squeals of delight. The kids are well-behaved, aware that Jingle is watching with his unsettling grin.
December 2
Found Jingle playing Legos with a stuffed reindeer. Kids loved it!
December 3
Jingle was busy building an igloo out of cotton balls. Thanks, Pinterest!
December 4
He left “snow angels” in flour on the counter. What a mess! Jingle is on thin ice.
December 5
Jingle is nestled in the Christmas tree, looking quite festive.
December 6 to 8
Still hiding in the tree. Sorry, kids!
December 11
Wine was consumed, and I forgot about Jingle. There’s always tomorrow.
December 12
Children are wailing because Jingle neglected to return to the North Pole. They’re not pleased.
December 13
Discovered Jingle suspiciously close to the fireplace. Burn, you mischievous elf!
December 16
Heard that Emma’s elf brought Disney tickets. Note to self: remember that at the next PTA meeting.
December 17
Kids were shocked to find Jingle under the minivan. No explanation given. Morale is low.
December 18
Jingle is back in the tree. Anyone who complains loses a Christmas present.
December 19
Heard that Liam’s elf delivered plane tickets for a surprise trip. My kids are not impressed with Jingle’s candy canes.
December 21
I’ve had it! Today is the day to devise a plan to get rid of him. Blame it on the dog!
December 23
After too much eggnog, I briefly considered throwing Jingle in the trash.
December 25
Christmas morning! I collapse into a heap of wrapping paper while Jingle stares at me, creepy as ever.
December 26
Return the Felt Menace to the North Pole and pray my kids won’t expect him next year.
As much as I despise pretending that this cheeky elf can travel between the North Pole and our home, I know my time will come. One day, I’ll call one of my kids and say, “Oh, by the way, I sent you something in the mail. It’ll arrive Friday.” Sweet revenge will finally be mine.
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Summary
Navigating the holiday season with an Elf on the Shelf can be both delightful and exhausting. The joy of seeing children’s faces light up with wonder is often overshadowed by the pressure of creative elf antics. This humorous reflection on the journey with Jingle captures the love, laughter, and occasional chaos of being a parent during the festive season.