Our Elf On The Shelf

I was particularly frustrated with a very naughty Landon the other day. After several different consequences that didn't seem to be making an impact, I remembered our "Elf On The Shelf." As a last ditch effort, I pulled out the Elf and we read the story. The Elf is Santa's helper who watches little boys and girls and then flies back to the North Pole every night after the kids are in bed and reports to Santa all of the good or bad things the kids have done. He flies back to the house before morning and hides in another spot in the house so the children have to find him! Landon decided to name our Elf "Jake Christmas Boy." He is SO motivated to be good! He has been helpful, he gives his sister lots of kisses and hugs, and he is a better listener. He still is difficult at times, of course, but usually snaps out of it when we mention that Jake is going to report back to Santa (which REALLY bothered him the 1st night we got him out because Landon knew how difficult he had been ALL day. He asked me "Can't Jake Christmas Boy just stay here tonight and not fly back to da North Pole? I don't want him to go see Santa today.") Now, I guess Jake Christmas Boy is going to have to travel to Florida with us and also to Michigan. I'm also thinking that Jake Christmas Boy might have to make an earlier appearance next year....like maybe the 4th of July or so. : )