i-Nothing

Losing a cell phone is now a life-changing event. You are immediately cut off from your world. Having a non-functional cell phone is just as bad. My Blackberry began showing signs of illness on New Year's Eve and was gone the following day. I immediately claimed the title "Bad Mom of the Year" because I had not memorized my kids' cell phone numbers and I had to wear a watch just to know the time. I've been through five Blackberry phones since the beginning of the year. Yes, these were Blackberries-nothing beginning with lower-case "i" has entered my cellular world yet, but I certainly have five good reasons to make a switch. The manufacturer warranty that comes with all phones allows refurbished replacements. Every single replacement sent my way had some issue that did not allow me to use the phone that was sent. One had a broken speaker, the other did not charge, and two had touch-screen issues. I've decided that refurbished really sounds a lot like rubbish, seeing how my last replacement was sort-of okay-well enough that I don't dare send it back. I already have four phones separately boxed in the back seat of my car ready to be dropped off to FedEx. Plus I think one of the guys at the phone store thinks I have a crush on him because I'm there every day. All I want is a working phone with internet. Five years ago I would have been happy to get a Friday-night babysitter. Now I want to control my life with a small object that fits in the palm of my hand...same as a non-fat, sugar-free cinnamon dolce latte with extra foam. What's missing or needs replacing in her world today? Can you fill the void?

She buzz words

• Research paper
• Lost
• Sex and the City 2
• Sippy Cup
• Protein

Right now she could be

• Grooming her pet
• Crunching some numbers
• Scooping ice cream
• Hemming pants
• Looking for love

She loves

• Sleeping on clean sheets
• Flip flops
• The scent of sunscreen
• A newly stocked office vending machine
• A fresh pot of tea or coffee

She pet

Many travel with their pets; some even receive frequent flier miles for them. Bringing an animal on an airplane has become quite commonplace. If the animal's carrier can fit under the seat, AirTrans, Spirit, and JetBlue allow pets in the cabin. Book early; there is a limit as to the amount of animals allowed in the cabin. JetBlue is the only carrier that allows animals in the cabin for an international flight and they also offer frequent flier miles. Large animals must travel in the cargo area under specific regulations and for a fee. Pet Airways, coming in July, will offer pet travel between major cities at various rates ranging from $150 to $250. Animals will ride in the cabin where seats have been replaced by kennels and attendants will monitor animals during the flight.

She's protective of her food

She's had one-too-many items of food either taken or sampled from out of her office refrigerator. A new sandwich bag that looks like it has mold inside should keep the coworkers away from her food. www.thinkofthe.com

She's not so sure

Electronic cigarettes are now available; offering red glows and puffs of fake smoke. They don't violate any smoking laws, but can they really help her quit?

She quote

"When someone asks how old I am, my instinct is to say '28.' Why 28? I got pregnant at 29-every year since has been a blur." - Megan McCafferty

She saves

She camps

Camping is growing in popularity thanks to its reasonable rates; there is no comparison between a campsite and a hotel. Most state parks offer attractive season passes with numerous lodging options. She can make reservations in federal, state, and private campgrounds through www.ReserveAmerica.com. If she's a frequent camper, www.PassportAmerica.com offers yearly discounts. Here are some other good online sites for our nature girl:

• www.trailcooking.com
• www.packitgourmet.com
• www.maryjanesfarm.com

• Get more She Prep at www.ShePrep.com