December is a hard month for most I would assume. The parents are out and about more and sometimes kids are at dc and than a babysitter's so parents can get shopping done in secret or attend work parties. The get together's with friends and family are disruptive as usually there are lots of treats and toys and attention from people who may not see them often. Lack of sleep is probably to blame as well.

I have considered doing the elf on the shelf idea but didn't again this year. Maybe next year? Has anyone else done that at dc and did you find the kids liked it? It seems like a big commitment LOL