BRINGING SMILES

Mysterious tiny “houses” fit for a gnome or an elf have been appearing all over Overland Park, Kan. City officials have found miniature wooden doors set into tree trunks, complete with welcome mats, gravel driveways, and wooden mailboxes. So far, four “gnome homes” have been discovered. Although the city has no idea who is behind the stunt, it welcomed the latest additions to the urban environment. “It’s bringing smiles and laughter to those who are finding out about it,” said spokesperson Sean Reilly. “That’s exactly what we need sometimes in our lives.”