Capturing the vacation feeling is as important as going on vacation. Anticipating vacation is far better than the real thing. A huge part of maintaining the vacation feeling is buying a large quantity of Kellogg’s Fun-Paks and Pop Tarts.

Fun-Paks are not what they used to be, but they still work for vacation. Years ago, the side of the box was perforated so the box and bag inside could be opened. Milk was poured inside and the box became a bowl. With all the ultra-safety-don’t touch that-must be triple sealed-best by-stuff it’s a wonder any of us survived.

Fun-Paks are the answer for families with a no-sweetened-cereal law like we grew up with. Corn Flakes, Shredded Wheat, Puffed Wheat, and Puffed Rice which when the milk touched it turned to gag-me mucus, were the staples at our house. The Fun-Paks are just large enough to provide a slight taste of sweet without being enough to cause addiction.

Variety is the thrill of the Fun-Pak. Fruit Loops, Frosted Flakes, Sugar Pops, Cocoa Puffs, Apple Jacks, times two, all in one pack is just about more than any kid can take.

I wanted to be a good parent. I bought Kellogg’s Fun-Paks when we went on vacation. Camping, hoteling, cabining, familing, whatever the vacation mode, Fun-Paks and Pop Tarts were necessary. Sometimes I still buy Fun-Paks when it’s vacation time with the kids and grandkids. I bought two boxes of Pop Tarts three days ago.

Whoever invented Kellogg’s Pop Tarts was a genius. Obviously, it was Kellogg. I never met the man, but I would like to thank him. Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts are manna from heaven in a frosted pastry pillow. Kellogg must have had a direct com line to heaven because anything that tastes that good has to be anointed from on high.

BSCPTs (Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts) are a must for successful fishing trips. They worked for me many times. Here are the instructions:

1. Get in the boat with your fishing gear which includes an unopened pack of two BSCPTs and a thermos of coffee.
2. Drive to your favorite spot.
3. Drop your baited line in the water (BSCPT pieces are not used as bait.)
4. Open the BSCPT pack. I prefer to leave the pastry in the foil and just break off pieces a little at a time.
5. Pour a cup of coffee.
6. Reel in the fish.

If your family vacations tend to be more stress than satisfaction, maybe you should use the tried and tested method of family vacation perfection. Kellogg’s Fun-Paks and Pop Tarts.