When I was very young, my family always had an elf that looked extremely similar to the one that is currently being sold to the current masses. There wasn't a story behind it, they were just there as decoration. Now I am hearing about "Elf on a Shelf"...
About Elf on a Shelf
More about Elf on a Shelf
The Elf on the Shelf: Did You Remember to Move Him Tonight?
My thoughts are very similar (but not exactly the same, mind you) to this writer:
"Elf on the Shelf" Is the Real Nightmare Before Christmas
I don't know if I would actually tell me daughter that this little elf is going to be watching her constantly to make sure if she is worthy of getting presents. Maybe that is super useful for other kids, but not really in my current situation. I may embellish the story and not make it have such a "big brother is watching you" creepy aspect.
Then I looked at how much they were... $30 to $50 (depending on where you look, but these were the prices I was finding online) is pretty damn steep for a shadowbox, a elf doll (and if they are made the way the older ones are, then not really of a super high quality), a certificate, and a book. The DIY crafty person in me would much rather find out what the actual story is and make the book and find a way to make an elf that looks similar in some fashion (i.e. out of fabric, felt, or crochet) unless I can find one of the traditional elves in an antique store over in Dade City or something.
IDK... even for as low as $30 this seems like a pretty pricey tradition that may not even get off the ground in your home.
BTW, I'm not knocking anyone who is planning on purchasing or anyone who already has purchased this or a similar package.
How do the rest of you feel about this new tradition they are trying to market to families?
