Did We Remember to Get...?

     Ever feel like your packing for a small vacation, but you're really just trying to meet some family for a meal out? This past weekend we were celebrating my Mother-in-laws birthday with a brunch on the plaza. My husband and I were up late the night before rearranging furniture, cleaning, and putting things away in our house (we are in the process of putting our house on the market). Suffice it to say, we did not make time the night before to pack what we would need to go to brunch.

     Packing for small children to go anywhere takes gobs and gobs amounts of time! Can I get an Amen from fellow moms of little ones!?!? With two kids under 3, there is much to make sure to bring. Bottles, formula, extra liners, diapers, wipes, change of clothes, the beloved potty seat, extra socks, lidded cup with straw, pacifier, blanket, toys, bibs, kid-sized utensils, a bag with fun items to occupy my toddler while sitting at brunch for 2 hours.......the list goes on and on! And we haven't even gotten ourselves or anyone else in the house ready yet! That's just the bag!

     To avoid some crazy packing the day of the event, obviously pack ahead whatever you can the night before. Take inventory weekly (if possible) of your diaper bag. This will vary based on how much you're getting out, and how much you actually use what's in it. If you're restocking wipes every other day, consider buying a travel size wipes case that holds about 70 at a time. Keep extra clothes for the kids in the car whose permanent home will be the car. Then, you only have to replace it if you use it. And if you and your spouse can tag-team it in the morning, you'll be off to a much better start! Mu husband and I have become quite the efficient team together. Designate who is in charge of feeding the dog, brushing kids' teeth, giving the baby a bottle, and so on. Much time is wasted simply in figuring out who will do which task.

     And finally, recheck your attitude before getting out of bed to start the day. Life with small children is not "pick up and run out the door." There is much to bring, you'll feel a little uncool walking into Tom Fooleries on the plaza with a stroller PACKED full of stuff for a 2 hour getaway, but don't let that stop you from getting out! Pack up the bags, bring that stroller, prepare yourself for some things not to go as planned, and try and enjoy some time out.