Willow Pond Senior Care in Statesboro, Georgia, has truly embraced the holiday spirit with the extraordinary Elf on the Shelf spreading joy among its residents! The Elf is adding a sprinkle of holiday magic to the mix, and the residents are loving the elf's playful antics and festive surprises.
The mischievous Elf, named Willow, is spreading holiday cheer all over Willow Pond. They love the magic of figuring out where Willow goes and what he has been up to, bringing extra Christmas spirit among the staff and residents.
Did you know? The Elf on the Shelf tradition started in 2005 with a book by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. The book tells a Christmas-themed story, and explains how Santa Claus knows who's ‘naughty and nice.’
The elf reports back to Santa every night, keeping an eye on who's on each list!
This little fella, Willow, has decided, “He LOVES and prefers Seniors.” Sara Chandler, Life Enrichment Director at Willow Pond says, “Allowing the natural curiosity with residents engages them more in activities. Making it a game, just makes it that much more fun!"
Willow the Elf arrived on December 1, 2024 and will stay through Christmas Night, then ‘hitch a ride back’ to the North Pole with Santa, ready to share all those heartfelt Christmas wishes with him.
The rule of ‘look and speak but do NOT touch’ is implied, as it will take away his Christmas magic. The residents know they can tell Willow the Elf anything and he will report it all back to Santa.
Chandler summed it up, “Other elves work with children, but Willow the elf prefers Seniors. He says in his notes, 'Willow Pond is an amazing place to be, we never grow up!'"
