Every time we travel, something gets left behind or damaged beyond repair: Dan’s prescription sunglasses in Cape Cod, Dan’s new Crocs in Oklahoma, my prescription sunglasses in California; the list goes on, and on, and on…

Our most recent loss was a real tragedy: Joe’s duck blankie. He normally doesn’t sleep without it. It was definitely on the road to woobie-dom and in need of a “vacation” (read: wash). But “Ducky” really was his favorite.

Joe is actually doing okay, all things considered, and we’ve distracted him with other blankies and stuffed animals. Thankfully, after much internet searching, I found a replacement, which is on the way priority mail. It will hopefully fit the bill (no pun intended).

I’m almost wondering if I should order an extra (or two or three). On the other hand, he’ll soon be able to memorize every smudge, mark, and blemish, so I’m not sure if that’s the best solution. But the panic I felt upon realizing that Ducky was gone was quite real, and it made me wonder what other folks do about baby’s favorite animal or woobie. Any suggestions?