by Susie Sunshine, via Creative ReporterGrowing up, I always planned on being the fun aunt. The one who hosted late night slumber parties, took kids to the beach, and would serve cookies as the main course sometimes. The reality is my sister and brother-in-law live five hours away. My brother and his pregnant wife are a twelve hour drive. It's going to be a challenge to get my nieces to even recognize me, let alone be the beloved, silly auntie!

Enter the Sassy Photo Book. It's a soft, vinyl book with a handle that doubles as a teether. Inside are plastic photo sleeves where pictures of far-off aunties can be inserted. An additional piece of plastic encases the photo to thwart baby's attempts to remove and chew on Auntie Susie's image.

Discovery Toys has a padded fabric family tree on sale for $7.99. While a child can't play with it, it's another attractive and safe way to keep your smiling face in baby's life for the times you can't be there in person.

Now I just need to find a non-toxic, permanent glue to keep my siblings from ever changing the photos.

Susie Sunshine writes at The Underpaid Kept Woman is married and has four sons. She WILL be the favorite aunt.