May 24, 2006

Pack 'N Play

Packing has never been a particularly sexy activity, but it did seem to have a bit more zing when every camisole or bikini held the possibility for adventure of one sort or another. Now, with kids to think about, it's really their show. Multiple bags spill over with absolutely essential gear: the activity toys and games to keep them busy, the comfy blankies for meltdowns, pillows and snuggle buddies to help them sleep in new places (like airplanes), and of course, plenty of wardrobe changes for the inevitable ice cream incidents.

How are you supposed to have the brain power to pull anything together for yourself when you can barely manage to grab your own toothbrush on the way out?

Online travel shop Madallie won't exactly resurrect your glory days as the carefree weekend-share girl, but with Memorial Day upon us – it will help make your family vacation go a lot smoother. The well-chosen collection of books, games, dolls and comfort toys has something for every little wanderer. You'll find travel books to introduce their destinations, like This is San Francisco (London, Paris, New York, Texas…) by Miroslav Sasek, and Fodors' guides that highlight the family stuff you all want to know about. Other portable lifesavers include space saving paper dolls and activity books, packable yarn crafts, travel games, sticker books, note cards, cozy pillows and cool backpacks they'll want to carry.

No more schlepping from toy store to book store to baby boutique. In fact, the process is so painless you may even have the energy to toss a slinky little dress and a pair of strappy sandals into your own bag. With the kids busy at games and crafts, a sitter and solo dinner with Dad could actually be in the cards.

Available Online at madallie.com.

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