Elf on the Shelf Week 1

We purchased Elf on the Shelf in December of last year. We let Ivy name the elf and she decided on Cal. Like many parents, we used Cal as a reminder to behave in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Somewhere along the way, we all lost interest and just put her (Cal is a girl) wherever. 

This year, things are different. Honestly, I don't really like Christmas for a lot of different reasons. But since Ivy is getting older, I want to try to enjoy the holidays for her sake. She is innocent and sweet and I want her to have fun in the moment and believe in the magic. So I decided on two things: have Cal be a fun holiday tradition and to do an Advent calendar counting the days until Christmas. I made the Advent calendar but I am not very fond of it. It is on hold for next year. 

Our elf is not a spy for Santa. Our elf doesn't really posess any magic that disappears if it is touched. Ivy just finds her elf in sweet and silly situations. Of course, Pinterest has helped in coming up with ideas. 

Here is Cal's first week of adventures. 

A little welcome back breakfast.

Sliding down the banister.

In Ivy's Christmas tree.

Hanging from the living room ceiling fan.

Ivy loves M&Ms so Cal left her some.

She turned the milk pink.

And she TP'd the tree and mantle.