Advent Elf

We started a new family tradition: an advent elf. This very charming elfin friend has a pocket for each day of Advent, with little daily treats stashed inside. Adelaide has loved meeting the elf (she talks to him everyday!) and although it's been a challenge to learn that we only get to explore one pocket per day, he's been a really fun introduction to the Christmas season.

Adelaide has only recently learned about "new-new" things and the excitement of getting presents. While I have all of these great ideas about teaching her the "true" Christmas message (vs promoting materialism), the truth is, it's really fun to see her little face light up as she stomps her feet in anticipation of a surprise toy or treat. I am realizing that it may be more challenging than I ever considered for me to restrain from showering her with gifts when it's so fun to see her enjoyment. This will be the first (and probably easiest) year that we struggle with this balance. Yet another example of how I have in mind a lesson for her that in so many ways turns out to be a bigger lesson for myself.