Hi, everyone. I’d like to introduce you to Zippy, our Elf on the Shelf.
The Elf on the Shelf is a fun Christmas tradition that I just discovered a few weeks ago when I started seeing Elf on the Shelf pictures pop up on Pinterest. The idea is that the elf spends the month of December in your home, making nightly trips to the North Pole to report to Santa on whether the children have been bad or good. But while your children are sleeping, the elf also tends to get into mischief, and each morning the kids get to look for the elf to see where he or she ended up.
Even though I’m a couple weeks late, I recently purchased an elf (and the explanatory book) at Hallmark, and he made his debut late last night. After watching An Elf’s Story last evening, Hayden wished that WE had an Elf on the Shelf. And this morning, magically, we do.
According to the book, as soon as he makes his arrival, the family that adopts him needs to name him. So over oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, and toast, we decided on a name.
Meet Zippy.
Hi! I'm Rachel, and I'm so glad you're here. I make creative projects and intentional choices to create a life I love -- and I hope to inspire you to do the same! 
It looks like an exciting adventure is ahead at your house! Did I see that Zippy is “guarding” Nana’s gift?!!
Very clever excuse Zippy had.
Nancy: I just hope Zippy doesn’t open your gift before you get a chance to. He’s pretty mischievous…
Martha: When an elf shows up less than two weeks before Christmas, he’d better have a good excuse!