We didn’t do Elf on the Shelf because anti-surveillance state, etc. (I realize this is a little rich coming from someone who handed their DNA over to 23 and Me in exchange for the knowledge that “you are unlikely to flush after drinking alcohol.”) And you know, it was convenient to be anti–Elf on the Shelf when my kids were still too young to respond to threats. As usual in all of raising kids, it’s really easy to be fervently anti-something that’s of no use or value to you or your family at that specific moment in time. (Never needed formula? Breast is best!) But this year has had a way of wearing childrearing opinions down, dulling them into vaguely held sentiments at best (unless it is your opinion about whether schools should be open in which case you are hyperaware, punchy, and vigilant, but also to tired to yell about it anymore).
Happy holidays to you and your lovely family!! My 4.5 year old (I think about same age as Hugh as I emailed to commiserate about feeding after one of your posts, when you were pregnant 😭) likes to say “my friends will trap you!!” or my favourite, “my friends will knifes you!” when he doesn’t get his way.
Happy holidays to you and your lovely family!! My 4.5 year old (I think about same age as Hugh as I emailed to commiserate about feeding after one of your posts, when you were pregnant 😭) likes to say “my friends will trap you!!” or my favourite, “my friends will knifes you!” when he doesn’t get his way.
I wish we could be friends IRL but then I'd be jealous of your writing. Merry, merry Christmas to you!