Summer’s essentials

Posted on Friday, June 1, 2012 at 5:20 pm

By KALI BOLLE

 

There is a running joke between my mom and me that we were pack mules in another life.

To better explain this joke, it seems like no matter where we go we always seem to be loaded down with bags of stuff essential to the trip.

We don’t mind carrying it; in fact, it has become second nature to us, and I will admit that I often feel like I have forgotten something if I don’t have more than two bags with me.

However, now that I have two children, I have tried to downsize somewhat, or at least make some of the items I am carrying multifunctional. Now with summer and all its baggage invading my daily routine, I have to rearrange my load and make it compatible to all that summer calls for. This include days to the lake, park, and visits to various events.

So as I rearrange and regroup, here are some of my essentials. While not providing me with a less stressful summer, they are leaving a little more room in my bag. And the best part is that they are all available locally.

Mio Water Enhancer

Most kids, including mine, aren’t huge fans of plain water. This little guy not only adds flavor but also is so small it almost disappears into any bag.

Johnson and Johnson’s Face and Hand Wipes

I don’t know about you, but the smell of regular hands and face wipes is less than pleasing, plus for smaller children, you have to be careful around the hands and eyes. I recently found these wipes in the baby aisle and, without a doubt, love them. Great combatants of PB&J and sand and they leave a wonderful smell that Johnson & Johnson is so well known for.

Thirty-One Wristlet Wallet

I go from my purse to a diaper bag constantly, so keeping a wallet that holds the necessary items without taking up a lot of space is a must. After attending a friend’s 31^st birthday party, I jumped for joy when this little product was put in my hands. It not only carries my cash and cards, but it also has a place for my too-hard-to-fit smart phone. It comes with a wristlet that allows me to carry it by itself or latch on to my everyday purse and diaper bag. Contact your local Thirty-one consultant to grab one.

Quick Dry Tanning Spray

Have you ever tried to put sunscreen on a toddler? You’ve got 30 seconds tops. Quick dry tanning spray is the stuff of miracles. Spray it on and send them on their way. The best part is not having to worry about a tube of sun lotion exploding in your bag.

Floppy Hat

Even the late style icon, Audrey Hepburn knew that everyday can’t be a great hair day. Insert a one neutral colored floppy hat. I say neutral because it can go with anything on short notice. If color is your thing, then go for it. But this is a great way to add something to your summer wardrobe with no effort whatsoever.

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