I'm not usually one to perpetuate my kids beliefs in imaginary creatures, but my children are fascinated by leprechauns. It started last year, which was C's first year in school.. apparently they talk about leprechauns a lot in kindergarten. He decided to build a trap to try and catch a leprechaun, but alas, no luck. All he got was a note from Larry the Leprechaun wishing him better luck next year. (We knew Larry had gone into the trap and looked around because we could see his green footsteps.)
The kids finished their new traps this afternoon, complete with welcome sign, and a nice note on the door that says "Come in!" and a little trail of gold. If only leprechauns were so easily fooled!
Part of the problem might be that we just finished reading The Borrowers by Mary Norton, about a family of tiny people living underfoot, borrowing things from the human beings they live with. I remember loving this book when I was a kid, but I think I jumped the gun a bit on this one.. though they loved the idea of tiny people running around, the language was a little tough for my kids. I think it's better suited for kids 8-11.
Tonight the kids asked if they could sleep downstairs and leave the front door open, just to make sure the leprechauns could get in okay... but I insisted they sleep up in their beds. I'm sure they will be awake before we are, checking their traps and collecting their goodies. Maybe Larry will leave another note.