Elf on the Shelf: Cute Tradition or Just Creepy?

The holidays come with all kinds of traditions. Some held my people around the world, and some specific to each family. While having traditions is a wonderful thing, some are just strange. Hanging stockings, drinking egg nog, caroling are among some of the things I find strange, but the strangest of all is "Elf on the Shelf." The idea is that you put this guy in different places over your house and the kids find him (or her) every day after Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve. The elf is an ambassador of sorts for Santa. He watches to see who's naughty or nice then reports back to Santa. Kids can talk to the elf (which they get to name), but they can't touch him because if they do his magic will go away.

Am I the only one who finds this creepy? Not only is the idea of an elf watching over me to make sure I'm good creepy, but the elf himself is creepy. Designed to look like a vintage doll (actually created in 2005), the guy is just creepy! Kids, however LOVE this little guy (and you can get a girl version). And adults love to set up some pretty funny scenarios with the elf too. Should I embrace the crazy tradition, or is he just a cheap ploy to get kids to behave? Comment below.....