I don't know where I've been the last couple of months, but it became apparent this weekend that I've been ignoring one of the biggest fads to hit in, well, the past couple of months.

If your kids, or your kids' friends, aren't sporting thin, rubbery bracelets crafted into colorful shapes -- butterflies, kites, hearts, guitars, drums, giraffes ... well, you get the picture -- they're still being rocked to sleep or have children of their own.

Boys and girls are donning these bands by the dozens. A package of 24, depending on the brand, is under $5 or $6. They are one hot trade, and stores can't keep them in stock. While my daughter and I were standing in line at Centerville Cardtique on Saturday -- Silly Bandz in hand, of course -- we learned from a teacher that they're becoming a distraction in some classrooms. They've also caused some fights and, thus, are morphing into contraband. Still other teachers, realizing their allure, are giving them as rewards for jobs well done.

As I resist the urge to use a couple of them to tie up the celery and keep the egg carton closed, I wonder what my daughter would say if I forced her to wear rubber bands as a fashion statement. Gotta believe I know the answer to that one!