We have many flashlights around the house, but the batteries are all dead because the boys play "pirates" from under couch cushions and bean bags. The flashlights roll under the furniture, out of sight, and clicked in the "ON" position. Or the flashlights will be exactly as I left them: one by each bedside and one in the hallway, but yes, the batteries will be nonfunctional even though I swore I put in fresh ones just the other day.

It was with great enthusiasm that I accepted the Parent Bloggers Network's query to review Sylvania's PalPODzzz, a combination night-light/flashlight.

Splig was thrilled to receive a little ladybug PalPODzzz; the product also has a rocket ship version.

PalPODzzz plugs into the wall, so the "pod" base doesn't get lost, and the issue of dead batteries is moot. (The landfills rejoice!) The removable flashlight portion is automatically charged when it is plugged into the base; again, no dead batteries.

The idea is that during the night, the PalPODzzz functions as a nightlight; but then the flashlight can be removed as needed (and will illuminate automatically.) No fumbling around to find it when necessary. This also means that if the power goes out, the ladybug (or rocket) will remain lit since it has already been charged.

I love this idea - but Splig loved the ladybug too much to let it rest on its green leaf base. The ladybug went on the same adventures that our standard flashlights did: in the couch pillows, under blankets, between bean bags, and under beds. The little ladybug had so much fun that it wore out its charge.

Alas, the ladybug hasn't found her way back to the pod. I'd gladly purchase some extra bugs to rest on the leaf, or perhaps I'd get a second PalPODzzz. Once we find the little ladybug, I'll have to explain to her that she is to return back to her leafy home at the end of each adventure; I hope my boys will back me up on this.

Sylvania's PalPODzzz is a great idea - but it may be too fun to serve its purpose completely.