Story of the Real Ein: A Victorious Mom-Fail!

As parents, we do so much to ensure that our children are happy, protected, and that their innocence is kept sacred for as long as it can be. For example, we promote the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus to bring joy to their holiday experiences when they are young. Enjoy the shenanigans of a mother who tries to do that exact thing for her youngest son as she narrates how the Elf on the Shelf joined their family. The name of the Elf was deemed as "Ein" in 2020 when it was introduced to her 6 year old son, Jaxon. Ein lovingly became a part of the Loughridge Family Christmas tradition from 2020 - 2022. In her haste to keep the tradition alive in him leaving the night of Christmas Eve, Loughridge hurriedly hid Ein early Christmas morning in 2022, but she couldn't remember where. When it came time for him to arrive again in November 2023, she could not find him and bought another one. The only one that fit her budget and arrive in time was a different Elf. The original Elf was white and the replacement was brown. As time passed during the month of December, the theme of the season became established when her son, Jaxon, kept trying to figure out which Elf was "the real Ein."

Loughridge, an independent woman with children during today's time, hilariously depicts this heartfelt story as an encouragement to parents who do their best to put a smile on their children's face, especially during the holiday season. The author encourages parents to give themselves grace as they will experience some victories and some unfortunate circumstantial challenges on the journey of parenthood. She acknowledges that parenting is rewardingly difficult at times. It takes a lot of patience, love, and grace to be given, not only to children, but to parents as well. Meeting societal standards of purchasing gifts or maintaining traditions does not determine how good of a parent you are. Good parenting is shown in the love you give your children, the memories you create, and being their sense of a safe space.

Loughridge discusses how she often feels "Mom-Guilt" and how she managed to turn that potential negative experience into one filled with love and laughter. We can't control what life brings to us, but we can control our responses. It is all in your perception. The story of "The Real Ein" is a cherished experience the Loughridge family will enjoy for years to come. The mission was accomplished in Mom "saving the day" as we always do, juggling, creating, and channeling that superpower of being exceptional parents to our children.