Can't wait for the bedtime hour

For parents, bedtime is an oasis at the end of a long, hard day. For kids, it just signals the end of their fun and excitement and is not something they look forward to. That's the way things used to be, before we added Story Blankets by Lulla Beds, Orlando, Fla., to our nighttime routine.

This unique comforter and duvet cover is filled with 133 miniature LEDs. It plays a three-minute light and nonverbal sound show based on the theme of the blanket. The Heroes cover displays a collection of police, fire, and rescue vehicles and personnel with sound effects, including truck engines, sirens, walkie talkies, and other equipment. Imaginations can go wild as youngsters fashion a bedtime story to match their environment. The lights gently fade for the final minute of the show. Space, Kitty, and Princess themes also are available.

Story Blankets ($149.99 twin, $159.99 full) run on three D batteries and are activated by a 3 1/2" soft-touch power button on the duvet's exterior cover. The light and sound comforter is treated to resist water and can be spot cleaned only. The duvet may be removed and machine washed. For more information, visit www.lullabeds.com

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