Eleven elves

My mother's collection of Christmas memorabilia grows steadily year after year. There is something reassuring about coming home and being surrounded by objects that I recognise from childhood Christmasses. To me, home is like an island of stability in an otherwise turbulent (albeit exciting) life.

This elf congregration is the latest addition to the festive display. I understand my mother's fascination with it: each elf has its individual face and expression. They are so life-like, some members of the household even find them a tad creepy. I say they better deal with it, for these elves will be part of the Christmas inventory for many years to come.