This is a simultaneous tip: saving time and being prepared. I keep a bag in my car for my daughter for the summer that includes: a bathing suit, panties, a towel, bug repellent, sun screen, snacks in ziploc bags, sunglasses, hats and a few other items. I change it out every couple of days b/c I have to let the towel or bathing suit dry, or refill the snacks or what not. But, I am sure that you get the picture. So, when we go to our neighborhood that has a play fountain for the kids, I have everything that I need. Or, if we decide to go to a park in a wooded area, I have protection from bugs. I also keep a kite in my suv, it is one of the 2.99 ones from Target. My daughter has a fold down scooter and trike, so we usually take one of those and I have the helmet with the pads inside of it in my car at all times.

This may seem like so many things, but most of the items are in the bag and zipped up so they are not a hazard in the event of a sudden stop, and the kite takes up virtually no room under the bag! The only bulky thing would be one of the ride ons. I also like to have one of those waterproof blankets. Those come in handy for an outdoor concert, or a spur of the moment picnic.

PS This can be used in the colder months too, but of course it would include extra hats, scarves, mittens, perhaps a snow toy, etc. You get the point!!!!!!!!!!!

I cannot tell you how nice it is to not have to spend money when we go somewhere for those essentials because they are already with me. Generally the only thing that we purchase when out is a drink. A lot of times she has cups, so I purchase a fountain drink for me and fill hers with water. It is also nice to not to always have to say not to my child. I can actually say yes honey I do see that play/festival/concert in the park and we can go because mom is prepared. It saves me so much time when I want to go to things because I don't have to think what to pack since I am constantly refilling the bag with a clean towel, hat, etc. This way I have a mental inventory because I constantly use it.

I tell you that it makes me happy to make my child happy and I think that sometimes as parents that we are abrupt with them when they get upset about not being able to do something, but if we as parents can anticipate what can happen then we could avoid so much. If we have are stuff together, then it makes everyone happy. Because like the old adage says: "If mama ain't happy nobody's happy." Well, I have to add on a part. I"f mama ain't happy, the kids ain't happy either."

Take the time, get your gear together. Just take 30 minutes, those 30 minutes will save you hours and dollars in the long run. And...you will be the best mom on the block to your kid because mommy always has what they need. Not that being popular is what matters as a parent, but it does not hurt, as a matter of fact it feels wonderful!