They're Baaaack! ~ Elf On The Shelf 2016

It's probably ONE of our TOP 5 Christmas traditions... the Elf On The Shelf.  If you are new to following us, then you definitely need to read some old posts on the mischievous things our elves on the shelf have gotten into.  Just type "Elf On The Shelf" into the subject box.  If you aren't new to BollingWith5 then you know exactly what this means for us.  Each of our children have an elf.  Lilah actually has TWO because her original elf caught on fire, and lost a leg.  

Pinterest has pretty much taken a simple, yet fun Christmas tradition to an entirely new level.  Over the years, instead of just hiding our elves in a new spot, we have had to incorporate some pretty creative Christmas scenes and shenanigans into the mix.  I try really hard to create my OWN original ideas.  By like day 22, I give... and use Pinterest for sure.

Yesterday, I finished decorating our 5th and FINAL Christmas tree, so it was time for our elves to arrive.  Usually, the first night, they just land on the Christmas Tree, but I did want to do a little something fun.  While Christmas shopping at Michael's Crafts. I spotted a 1 foot, decorative, wooden Christmas door, with a wreath on it. AS SOON AS I SPOTTED IT, I HAD to have it!! I knew exactly what I was going to do with it. The cost was $12.99, but I used a 40% off coupon.  Score!!! 

Isn't it adorable?

I created a rhyming note for Napoleon, Chippey, Ariel, and Rosie to give to the kids, "installed" the wooden door using velcro, and placed the elves on the tree.

I just love the way it looks.  If it wasn't red and Christmasy, I would consider just keeping in there.  LOL! 

The first words out of Lilah and Jax's mouth this morning were, "Did the elves arrive?"  I am so glad that they still believe. Ty just pretends to believe to help prolong the magic and fun for his brother and sister.

I have created a general letter that you can use for your child's elf!  If you would like to use it and fill in the blanks, click here.