The Elf on the Shelf

This post will only be relevant to parents who know what The Elf on the Shelf is; an elf who watches over the children (whose parents purchase him) and returns to the North Pole every night to report on that child's behaviour. This concept did not go over well with Max:

Me (after Max misbehaved): "Max, look at the elf on the shelf over there. Do you think Santa will be happy with your behaviour when the elf reports back to him tonight?"

Max (yelling): "I DON'T WANT HIM HERE!"

This was followed by Pat and I bursting into (soft) laughter as Max ran into the kitchen.

Later tonight when Pat was putting Max to bed:

Max: "Daddy, is the elf still here?"

Pat: "Yes Max, he only goes back to the North Pole once we are all sleeping"

Max: "Does Santa like wine?"

Pat: "No"

Max: "Coffee?"

Pat: "Yes, I think so"

Max:"Ok, let's give him coffee and vanilla yogurt when he comes to our house"