Modern and Motel 6 are not two words that I typically put together in the same sentence. In fact when I think about a Motel 6 room I cringe at the sea of beige and maroon that washes over me. That is why I was completely shocked to hear that Motel 6 is changing their tune. Shown above is their Phoenix prototype room which is the “now mandatory teimplate for future renovations at all 1,0345 company-owned and franchise properties”. Has anyone seen one of these rooms in person? According to the article most Chicago area hotels have already been converted.

Full press release here.

Additional photos available here.

Tampa Tribune article here.

These handy little journals from Jet Set Paper are a wonderful gift for that well-traveled friend! Airport codes from your favorite cities are hand-printed on Moleskine cashier journals. Included with the journal is a set of 4 area code notes for jotting down contact info or directions on the fly. Check out the Jet Set Paper shop to see if one of your favorite destinations made the cut!

Jet Set Journals: $8.50

The perfect toy for your jet setting darling! The “home on the go” dollhouse is a compact little camper consisting of 13 colorful wood blocks. With over 1300 ways to arrange them, this toy lets your little one’s imagination run wild! Gorgeous colors, versatile pieces and lots of creativity. Also includes 2 small felt blanket/rug/bed/landing strip pieces plus large felt roof/driveway/rug/carry-all. Wrap it up and away you go!

Available in warm or cool color palettes.

Home on the go dollhouse available from rompbklyn: $68

via

When it comes to contests, I never win anything, but that certainly doesn’t stop me from entering. If you are feeling lucky this month make sure you stop by Dwell.com for their Holiday Sweeptakes were they give away a new item every day until Christmas. Entering is super quick and as long as you mark that you don’t want info it should be fairly spam free. Because there is a prize every day unit the 25th, it gives me 22 more days to see just how unlucky I am.

Enter the Dwell Holiday Sweepstakes here.

One of the major accessories every new parent needs is a good diaper bag. If you remember, when we had Arri we splurged a little for a Petunia Pickle Bottom bag. It wasn’t cheap, but looking back I think it was totally worth it. I am a huge fan of Petunia Pickle Bottom, and think that most of their bag designs are pretty nice, but they have completely outdone themselves with their new Journey Packs. This beautiful bag is made of felt, and has a classic style that will always look great. Looking at it makes me think that it’s hands down the best looking diaper bag I’ve ever seen. The only downsides are the size (it looks a little small) and the price (which isn’t small). Available in Gray, Olive Green, Black felt, and leather.
Available from Design Public for $140.

Whether you are a jetset junkie, or you just like going on picnics every chance you get, an insulated bag is a great way to keep your food cold (or hot). I’ve bought simple plastic ones from Rockhill Creamery at our farmers market to keep things cool, and they worked great. If you are looking for something a little more stylish however, definitely check out the canvas cooler bags by Sagaform. Unica home has them in stock in black or khaki, with the small size starting at only $29.

Available from Unica Home $29 – $ 69.

I’m a gadget junkie, which means that when we go traveling we have a small arsenal of electronics to take with us. The Load Ding device organizer by XXD is just the thing to add a little organization while charging on the go. This simple piece of white pastic is flocked with black, red, or pink on the inside and folds up to form a little tray to hold your electronics as they charge. When not in use it packs flat and takes up hardly any space at all. Just perfect for an adventure on the road.
Available from A + R for $15.

I’m in Chicago for the week for business, and I decided to drag my family along with me. We are staying at the Club Quarters Central Loop, which is not modern at all, but relatively affordable. While most of my days will be taken up, I have nights to explore, and my wife and kid have a wide open schedule. So what are some must do’s and must see’s in Chicago? We are about four blocks from the Sears Tower and prefer to roll on foot. We also plan on hitting H & M for sure to get some clothes for Arrington.
Any other recommendations?

While I’m not personally a huge fan of coffee, there are those that can’t go a day without their fix. For those of you that are on the road a lot, there is a small travel coffee maker that looks as good as your favorite cup of brew tastes. The Brisk Brew has an simple chunky design, but only stands 5″ tall and 4″ wide. It has a permanent mesh filter and is dual voltage (120V/ 140V) in case travels take you out of country. The only disadvantage I can see is that it only brews one 8 ounce cup at a time.

Available from Organize.com for $44.