our house guest

I would like you to meet Andy. He appeared at our house on December 1st and has been doing a very good job keeping an eye on the kiddos and reporting back to Santa every evening. He also does a wonderful job finding a new place to sit and watch the chaos when he returns from the North Pole. A place that is up high so no little hands can reach him. We wouldn't want his magic to disappear would we.

Taylor thinks he is great. After we read the story of why this elf came to our house he immediately believed and started talking to him. Taylor understands that Andy has strict instructions from Santa not to talk back - but he does listen. Good enough for Taylor. He told Andy that he had rosy cheeks and to please not hide in the basement or upstairs. Every time he talks to him he waits there for a few seconds hoping maybe Andy will respond.

Bennett was skeptical and was not as welcoming at first. His first response after the introduction was "He is not real, he is fake." After some convincing from Taylor he decides Andy is welcome and is o.k. to keep watch. Bennett does ask Mom if Andy can watch him in other rooms and outside of the house. Hmmm maybe we will invite Andy to stay longer than Christmas Eve.

Owen was the man who came up with our little Elf's name. The name Austin Collie was shot down by mom. Owen likes Andy, but doesn't quite understand what he is here for. He often goes up to Andy and says "Hi Andy...Hi Andy." He then gets frustrated and says to mom "He's not talking!" Sorry Owen, Santa does not look kindly on those that disobey his rule.

All three kids love to get up in the morning to find where Andy is watching for the day. Mom loves telling Andy if the boys have been good or bad. Thanks for the idea Amber!