The Elf Is Watching (And Apparently Has a Camera Now)

There are two kinds of parents in December.

Those who say, “We’re not allowing this Elf on the Shelf in our house.”

And those who are currently whisper-yelling at a tiny Santa Helper at 10:47 p.m. because it has not moved and bedtime was thirty minutes ago.

We are the second kind.

Our elf arrived again this year like a seasonal celebrity—small, silent, confident, and immediately in charge. From day one, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a low-effort visit. This elf had ideas.

One morning, we woke up to a glowing sign that read something along the lines of:
“Find me in a place that I can take an ELFIE SELFIE!”

Signed lovingly,
Elfie.

First of all, bold move.
Second of all, this elf now has branding?!?!

And there he was—later that day—proudly displayed in the window, surrounded by printed photos of himself. Different angles. Different locations. Full scrapbook energy. I don’t know where he learned about selfies, but I assume Santa offers a continuing education program.

My sons were impressed. I was concerned about the elf’s confidence level.

Another night, the elf decided he needed some “downtime.” We found him posted up with a stack of Christmas movies, popcorn nearby, and the remote carefully tucked into his hands like he was hosting movie night. Apparently elves unwind by watching holiday classics and silently judging our streaming choices.

“Dad,” my son said, very seriously, “did he butter the popcorn for us?”

Of course he did. He’s magical. And festive. And clearly very busy.

That’s the thing about Elf on the Shelf—what starts as a fun tradition slowly becomes a full-scale operation. The elf doesn’t just watch kids; he watches everything. How you behave. How tidy the house is. Whether you pretended not to see him when he was definitely in the same spot as yesterday.

And yet… I wouldn’t change it.

Because each morning brings excitement. Each discovery comes with laughter, wide eyes, and absolute belief. But for now, he’s here—taking selfies, watching movies, reporting back to Santa, and reminding us that a little magic goes a long way.

Better be good boys, he’s watching. 🎄✨