Two Peas and a Blog

Style file: to tee or not to tee

2008-07-17T10:45:00.003-05:00

Although my summer wardrobe does have a couple of flirty sundresses and flowy skirts, for the most part my hot weather uniform is a simple tee or tank and linen shorts. A girl’s gotta be comfy when bending down a million times a day to pack orders, lift boxes, and squat for the occasional game of hide-and-seek with an almost 2-year-old.

I deal with babyish blouses all day long, obviously. But no matter how casual I may be, I at least know how to step it up and don only grown-up, better-than-basic tees made for real women.

Just because I want more than what Hanes can put on my back, doesn’t mean I have to sacrifice comfort or pay an arm and a leg.

So here it is, my list of favorite tees from my favorite go-to stores that are worth stocking up on in every color:

> Gap Shirred modal T, $22.50
> J.Crew Featherweight Cotton Tie Top, $34.50
> Old Navy Cap-Sleeve Tee, $10.00!
> Old Navy Cap-Sleeve Boat Neck Tee, $10.00!
> Target Square-Neck Tee, $12.99

Things we love: Project Runway Season 5

2008-07-16T13:46:00.003-05:00

This one sneaked up on me. Not until I was watching a Shear Genius (random, not sure why I was watching) on Bravo the other night, did I discover that my beloved show was returning this week. I admit that I'm a little unaware of what's happening in the world and stuck in Mommyville, but my goodness would I have been so sad to miss this season of Project Runway.

Premiering tonight 8 pm CT on Bravo, a slew a new designers will be trying to make it work on the runway and win our hearts with their talents. Back from seasons past are Heidi, Tim (whom Sarah and I had the chance to meet), Michael and Nina. I've taken a peek at the upcoming designers and it looks like this one could really be good.

This season is sure to have its fair share of hipsters, freaks and that one semi-normal person whom always looks a bit overwhelmed. But, they may be hard pressed to find anyone as "fierce" as Christian from season 4. I really hope he makes a guest appearance, because out of all the designers he may be the most memorable.

Grab your Vogue, put on your Jimmy Choos and prepare to be wowed by up and coming fashion designers!

>Project Runway Season 5

Culture shot: Libraries and toddlers

2008-07-15T13:42:00.003-05:00

The public library system is a thing of wonder to me. With the growth of big retail bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Borders, the idea of the library seems to be a thing of the past or so I thought.

Libraries are a great place for toddlers. The kids section is always filled with books, mini tables and chairs, art and those funny felt boards with cut-outs that I remember from kindergarten. If you're really lucky your local library will have a fun animal your kiddos can enjoy, too. Our favorite library has Max the mouse. A big celebrity around these parts.

I started taking Lillie to the library for story time. A wonderful teacher, Ms. Stephanie, reads stories, sings songs and dances with lots of little ones for about 20 minutes once a week. She is a librarian, you hardly hear about nowadays, and is the most wonderful person. And, best of all, this activity is totally free.

We have discovered so much more at our library other than story time, and it’s a great place to have your toddler look, learn and feel everything around her. The only drawback is making sure they use an inside voice, as it is usually dead silent in there.

Search your city's web pages or white pages for the closest library and inquire about story time. Oh, and best of all, you can get a library card with you and your child's name on it. Once they stamp your due date on the inside sleeve, you'll be instantly taken back 20 years.

Mommy Diaries: Our trip to the zoo

2008-07-14T13:24:00.003-05:00

Who doesn't love a zoo? Especially one that is really well done. The three of us made a trip to the San Antonio zoo this past weekend, so Lillie could see all the animals she talks about in person instead of on paper or on TV. Some of her favorite signs are for monkey, bear and elephant. And, we were so happy that this zoo had it all.

Living in Austin, I forget that this city isn't as big as I think it is. We have a zoo, but its basically an animal rescue and isn't the greatest. Quite sad actually. Most of the animals come from bad situations and are there to make a recovery. Good deeds for the community, not that great of an experience for a toddler.

We decided the hour drive to San Antonio was well worth the trip once we arrived. The zoo map showed there were bears, lions, monkeys, rhinos and even giraffes. As we walked around, we saw so much more. Butterfly gardens, every species of birds, ducks and swans. The place was beautiful, and in the morning wasn't too hot, either.

Lillie got the biggest kick out of the monkeys. Swinging, running and yelling. She kept saying, "noisy". Her least favorite was the rhino. My guess is because it was terribly stinky. We walked close by and she kept saying, "nooooo". But, she loved looking at the elephant. He was enormous and so fun to watch.

I highly recommend seeking out a good zoo near you for a summer trip. Not only did Lillie enjoy, Cy and I felt like kids again, too.

Style file: Jack & Lily shoe SALE

2008-07-10T14:26:00.003-05:00

Protecting baby's feet when they are first learning to walk is key. But, shoes can be really bulky making it hard for them to walk. Jack & Lily have the perfect slipper shoe for your new to walking tot.

Made of 'lambs touch' leather, these little guys are really, really soft to the touch. The leather upper and bottom of the shoe is also very durable. My little one wore her's around for a good 6 months and we never saw a hole or tear anywhere.

Not only are these shoes good quality construction, they are really stinkin' cute. With lions, hearts, birds, flowers and bears on the top of the shoe, your little one can make a shoe fashion statement even before they turn one!

Best yet, Two Blue Peas has some of your favorite designs on sale. For a mere $18 you can have a great first pair of shoes for your bub that will last until they outgrow them.

Check out all of the Jack & Lily shoes, especially those that are priced to sell!

>Jack & Lily shoes

Things we like: sweet dreams are made of these

2008-07-09T15:07:00.004-05:00

Perfect for naptime, road trips, movie night, or even as a boppy in a breastfeeding pinch, we L-O-V-E these plush pillows by Angel Dear.

Imagine their luxurious lovies, only super-sized and stuffed with fluffy cotton. We carry the pink bunny, blue elephant, yellow giraffe, tan puppy, and yellow duck – all of which coordinate with an Angel Dear lovie. Both can be monogrammed, and are a ridiculously adorable gift when paired.

Warning: like the lovies, loss or temporary misplacement of one of these suckers will probably result in a meltdown of catastrophic proportions.

> Shop Angel Dear pillows

Culture shot: Zoo Pops for little monkeys

2008-07-08T10:42:00.005-05:00

I love a big ole scoop of rich and creamy Baskin Robbins Peanut Butter N’ Chocolate as much as the next gal.

But at 320 calories and 20 grams of fat per serving, I’ve turned to ice cream’s slimmer and only slightly less fun cousin – the popsicle – for my everyday treat instead.

There’s something weird about a popsicle in January anyway, so I might as well suck away while summer is still in full swing.

I haven’t ventured into making my own popsicles just yet, but when I do, you better believe they will be shaped like lions and monkeys and bears, oh my!

As if a popsicle isn’t treat enough, making Zoo Pops with your little critters is even sweeter. A cheap summer activity with a healthy, fruit-juicy reward at the end? You can’t beat that with a popsicle stick.

> Find Zoo Pops at amazon.com for just $12.95

Mommy Diaries: Lillie's Summer Tour 2008

2008-07-06T22:32:00.005-05:00

Summer travel started with a bang around here. It all started with a great trip to the beach in early June. Then we were off to Phoenix to visit the in-laws, up to Dallas to visit my parents and in the next week and a half we're off to Colorado for a family (just the three of us) trip.

Lillie has been a superstar with most of our traveling. She loves running in the airport. She thinks the airplanes are really fun when they go up, up, up. And, in the car it’s all Elmo all the time on her best travel buddy, the DVD player. I have to say we have been pretty lucky. I'm just wondering; will our luck run out?

The most grueling part of travel has to be naps. Can we get somewhere in time for her to nap? Will she sleep on the plane? Are we totally throwing her off schedule? These are all the things that run through my mind as we embark on our journeys. I have a slight obsession about her napping, so I may be a little more overzealous than the next mommy.

Overall, the Lillie Summer travel tour seems to be going pretty well. We haven't had too many dirty looks from fellow passengers or travelers. Mostly smiles and hi's from nice folks. And Lillie meltdowns have been minimal.

Be on the look out, Lillie's American Summer tour may stop in a town near you, pink heart bathing suit and all.

Style file: she’s got legs

2008-07-03T08:11:00.004-05:00

It’s an undisputed fact that body-hugging leggings are not meant for every adult body type. Much like the mini, 5 inch stilettos, and skinny jeans, leggings look best on a nice long and lean leg.

But there is a time in all of our lives that no matter how chubby, chunky, dimply, or filled with rolls our legs are, these fat-binding britches look absolutely adorable.

A time before we became self-conscious, workoutaholics that lust after Giselle’s gams. When clothing was about comfort and flexibility, not butt-reducing ability.

Paired with a onesie, a t-shirt, a tank, a dress, or worn with the top half of a birthday suit, this fashion DO is my all-time favorite look on a bub. It accentuates diaper butt, calls attention to irresistible thunder thighs, and tapers off nicely to make sure chubby little feet are not forgotten.

We’ve got a slew of this DO from Zutano in pretty prints and even prettier prices.

> Shop Zutano

Things we love: Dwell baby bib & burp sets

2008-07-02T07:09:00.003-05:00

I've always loved the Dwell brand. They first caught my eye when I was pregnant looking for great gear. Clean, modern and practical styles are designed in all of their pieces. Making them a fresh face in the world of baby retail.

When Two Blue Peas partnered with Dwell baby to carry their brand, my love grew even more. The bags are amazing. The travel cases are perfectly sized and designed. And, the one thing that really caught my eye is the bib and burp sets

I know an online picture can't give you a sense of feel, but let me tell you these bibs and burps are the softest I have felt. Even right out of the bag before a wash they are gentle and soft. Backed with soft velour and topped with cotton, these burps will catch any spill or spit-up coming your way. And, you can take them out in public feeling like a savvy and fashionable mom.

The prints are adorable and the price point happens to be great, as well. For a two bib and large burp, 8.25" x 18.5", this set is just $32. For the softness and style, I am just in love. I hope you will be, too.

>shop Dwell baby bibs & burps

Culture shot: New Orleans Playground

2008-07-01T17:44:00.005-05:00

Growing up just a hop, skip, and a jump from “The Big Easy”, family road trips to this fantastically colorful and historic city were an annual event.

Dad looked forward to eating his weight in etouffee, Mom to spending her worth at the markets, and my sister and I to immersing ourselves in the music and street dancing.

Hopefully by the time we roll around to starting our own family, we’ll live close enough to give our kiddos the same taste of this amazing town. It’s an absolute ball, and there’s just no other place on the planet like it.

Whether you’ve already had the pleasure or only pondered making a visit, I just stumbled upon a little cd to help take you back or inspire you and your little peas to make the trek.

New Orleans Playground, from the fabulous Putamayo World Music, is a “playful romp through the musical landscape of New Orleans”.

Jazzy, funky, brassy, and full of soul, all you need is this cd to Laissez les bon temps roules... Let the good times roll!

> Buy New Orleans Playground

Mommy Diaries: A true Texas cowgirl

2008-06-30T13:23:00.003-05:00

While traveling this weekend, Cy and I made a breakfast stop at a Cracker Barrel. We feasted on Southern breakfast in the desert of Phoenix. If you're not familiar, the restaurant has a country store with toys and goodies. And, with country music blaring on the radio, Lillie found a pink sparkly cowgirl hat and instantly strated swaying to the music. A true cowgirl was born. Must be in her roots.

Soaking up good design like a little sponge.

2008-06-27T09:17:00.001-05:00

I mentioned a few weeks ago that Friday mornings are now officially my time to take the brain off work and onto my other passions in life. For one self-indulgent, measly little hour, I catch up with the rest of the world and skim my blog feeds for news, random tidbits, and pretty things to lust after.

One blog I most look forward to leisurely stumbling through is Design*Sponge. Holy mid-century mod this gal is good!

For one, she’s a professional writer who contributes to the likes of Domino Mag and House and Garden. Fold in her impeccable taste, creative topic ideas, and insider edge, and you’ve got a daily best-of-the-best recap of all things design.

If this were a print publication, every page corner of my copy would be earmarked for future reference. Her “Mini Trends” and “Roundups” do all of the dirty work for you, and her DIY features are absolutely inspiring since they’re mostly submitted by regular old wannabe’s like me.

Happy Friday!

> Visit Design*Sponge

Style file: summer maternity dresses

2008-06-26T13:41:00.004-05:00

As I comfortably bop around the outdoor garden aisles at the Home Depot this morning, I spy a poor bloated preggo so big I fear she’ll go into labor right there in the begonias.

Thank goodness for my cheapie Tar-jay tank dresses I wear all season long I think. Her t-shirt soaked in sweat and stuck to her back, combined with her belly band capris made me appreciate my flat tummy and thin cotton slip dress even more.

Yes, pregnancy is a most beautiful thing that comes with a round belly to be loved and embraced for the short time you have it. But when its 100+ degrees without so much as a burp of a breeze, even the most happily glowing mama-to-be finds herself with pre-preggers body slash dainty dress envy.

I thought to myself there’s got to be something cooler out there than clingy shorts and tees. Sure enough, I found a slew of casual dresses (the one pictured almost exactly like the one I'm wearing) – some starting at just $29 bucks!

> due Maternity (dresses on sale 15% off!)
> Target
> Belly Dance Maternity (higher prices, but also higher style)

Things we love: sweet deals and Moby™ Wraps

2008-06-25T08:42:00.003-05:00

Summer is officially here! And despite the sweltering heat, we’re feeling generous.

Lugging a wiggle worm around town is a full body (sometimes out-of-body) workout. The extra weight and inhuman contortions your child works her body into while in your arms can bring on a hot flash even in the dead of winter.

The 100% cotton, breathable carrier from Moby™ Wrap keeps toddler twisting and sweat fests to a minimum. It’s like an 18 foot long broken in t-shirt that keeps baby safely and snuggly in your arms in 20 different carrying positions.

Through Sunday 6/29, we're offering the chocolate and black Moby™ Wraps at $5 bucks off! Simply enter "MOBY DEAL" in the coupon code box during checkout to receive your $5 discount. Happy summer! And happy baby carrying.

> Shop Moby™ Wrap

Culture Shot: Girls Rock Camp

2008-06-23T21:39:00.005-05:00

Girls rock, we all know it. And, there is a movement of summer camps around the nation that are helping girls really achieve their inner rocker.

Girls Rock Camp, aptly named, is something I heard about from a news piece. It was an inside look at how young, timid girls, pre-teens and teens are taught life lessons through rock n' roll. The camp provides each girl with the opportunity to learn an instrument and by the end of the session perform on stage with bands they have formed and songs they have created.

More than just learning an instrument and forming new friendships, this camp is all about girl empowerment. It is 100% girl from the students and counselors. And, workshops are provided to give campers a true sense of self. Some of the workshops include:

-Team-building
-Women who rock
-Decoding images of girls and women in popular culture
-Exploring gender/identity issues
-Self-defense

It is Girls Rock Camp's primary goal to build self-esteem through musical performance and creativity. Which, in my book, is certainly one of the best ways you can do that. Girls become self-assured and independent, happy with themselves, when they have a hobby or talent they can focus on.

I am a big fan of this program and I cannot wait until Lillie is old enough to attend. If this is something you think is brilliant, as well, this organization takes donations to keep the camp going. Check out the main site with videos of the girls making it rock. And, research to see if one has started in your area.

>Girls Rock Camp site

>Donate online

Mommy Diaries: Grumpy old man...

2008-06-22T21:25:00.003-05:00

It was bound to happen one of these days. Cy, Lillie and I tried a new restaurant, family friendly restaurant please note, this past Saturday. Lillie has been a little spirited, I'll say, while eating out. The idea of sitting in her chair has become like torture. We usually choose a booth to let her feel like she is sitting like a big girl.

This dinner was proving to be especially hard to keep her well-behaved. Meaning in her seat, eating her food and speaking in a normal toned voice. I was taking most of the entertaining duties, while Cy tried to eat. As it turned out, we sat next to the grumpiest old couple ever. Every time Lillie jumped in her seat, the man who had his back to us would bounce in his seat, so I knew how annoying it was. And, we got multiple turn arounds with dirty looks when her tone went above normal.

Now, I know that it would be completely annoying to have a toddler going crazy next to you while eating out with your wife. Most occasions people are so friendly about my joyful toddler. She wasn't screaming, pitching a fit or really misbehaving. It seemed this man had a very low tolerance for anything toddler related and most likely never is around children himself. But, come on, we weren't at Sullivan’s trying to have a $100 meal.

So, I think I've banned sit down restaurants for the time being. Having to leave early, because this man made me feel so bad and eating my cold parmesan chicken at home was probably the straw that broke the camels back. Oh well, more Chick-fil-a and burger joints for me. Here goes the waistline.

Have I dug myself into a hole?

2008-06-20T15:24:00.003-05:00

I'm considered one of those nice people. Always polite, looking out for the other person and not myself, and generally like everyone to be nice and compatible. I don't think I'm necessarily a door mat, but I certainly like to keep the peace.

Miss Lillie at 21 months has started to become very demanding. She has a sense of how she wants something, what she wants and when she wants it. And, when she was younger it was always easier to appease her demands, because they were easy to do. Certain songs in the car, needing a pacifier or milk. As her vocabulary grows and she learns more about her environment, I think I might be getting pushed around a bit by my baby. And, I'm wondering with all my peace keeping abilities, have a dug myself into a parenting hole?

I know the terrible two's have started early in this household, but I just don't know how I'm going to get myself out of this demanding phase without meltdown after meltdown. When Lillie doesn't get her way it usually starts with fake crying. Then very loud no's and foot stomping. And if you're really lucky, jumping in the air and landing straight on her bottom. Distraction only works about 25% of the time. So, how can I let her think she has gotten her way when she hasn't?

I guess I should scoot myself down to the bookstore to find some terrible two's parenting books. I'm sure it will have all the nicey nice ideas like time out and things that really don't work for this age. Or, I may just keep on being a pushover to save myself from the crazed baby state. Any advice is welcome, I need it.

Style file: wild about animal prints

2008-06-19T07:27:00.003-05:00

Already crawling with crazies, double-wide strollers, and speed-walking old ladies trying to beat the heat, the mall feels more like a zoo than ever these days.

Nearly every store has a raw, animalistic quality about their prim-and-proper window display. Banana is pushing a mod giraffe print, Ann Taylor the zebra, and even Tar-jay has jumped on board with a leopard print from their new GO International Rogan line.

Whether big cat, classy croc, or ladylike pink-trimmed leopard, Two Blue Peas has some beautiful bags to help unleash your inner beast.

We’re so happy to now offer JP Lizzy’s line of stylish diaper bags. From compact clutches to roomy totes to sporty shoulder bags, the designs are gorgeous and the quality even better. And if animal print is not your bag, there’s plenty more options to suit just about any creature.

> Shop JP Lizzy

Snake Latte Tote

Zebra Trim Clutch
Leopard Clutch

Leopard Tote

Things we love: Pregnancy Magazine

2008-06-17T21:55:00.005-05:00

No, I'm not trying to give any clues as to the state of my body. And believe me, if you carry one of these suckers around in public you'll get that 'oh, how wonderful!' look from strangers. But, Pregnancy Magazine is one of the best mags for pregos I have found.

There are only a few publications to help get you through your pea incubation time. I remember quite fondly wishing I had more people to talk to about my ever changing body while pregnant. Pregnancy Magazine acts like that best friend you need during such an interesting time in your life. The editors choose great topics to cover everything from your physical and mental conditions to the perfect bottle or swing to buy.

These peas love the mag so much; we decided to buy a little space in it for ourselves. What a better place to showcase some of Two Blue Peas best offerings. So, if you are in the physical condition in which you may need a pregnancy magazine, I highly recommend Pregnancy to subscribe to. I know I loved reading it every month while pregnant, and honestly still do.

Culture shot: I scream, you scream, we all scream for peas!

2008-06-17T08:47:00.001-05:00

If vicious veggies are ruining your little pea’s life – and putting a serious damper on your plans to raise a strong, healthy eater – have no fear! Little Pea is here to save the day… or to at least throw a fun, unique spin on the age-old battle between moms and their picky eaters.

Sweets, sweets, and more sweets. That’s all Mama Pea and Papa Pea want Little Pea to eat. Shiny, red, sugary confections. Rich, gooey, chocolatey bon bons. Yuck! Little Pea just wants to get to the good stuff. Fluffy, green, folate-rich spinach. Delish!

So obviously this backward little tale is straight out of la-la land. But a Mama can only dream, right? The concept is clever, the writing spot-on, and the illustrations so adorable you could just eat ‘em.

This one ranks right up there with the Olivia series in my book.

> Buy it on sale at amazon.com

Mommy Diaries: Pink Pockles

2008-06-16T10:00:00.004-05:00

Lillie has found a new love for popsicles. She has had a few before, but never had really asked for them. We always offered them up after dinner sometimes on hot nights. The other night Lillie, her dad and I were on the back porch and we had this conversation.

Lillie: I want pink pockles
Mom: Pockles? I'm not sure what that is sweetie.
Lillie: Pink, orange, red pockles.
Mom: Pockles, hmmm, pink, orange...
Lillie: PINK POCKLES, RED POCKLES!
Mom: Oh, do want a popsicle?
Lillie: YEAH!

From that moment on pockles have been in high demand around here. She learned that asking for something means that she usually gets it, within reason of course. So, after breakfast, lunch and dinner I hear the phrase, "I want pink pockles." Then we have to explain that we only have them for special times and after dinner.

I love that she is starting to put all these ideas together. And, it was so great to see her try to explain to me what she was trying to say. The look on her face was a fast forward to pre-teens years, like, geez mom, don't you understand?

100% Dad, 50% Off!

2008-06-13T08:01:00.001-05:00

Even if you’ve already picked out another lovely tie for your baby daddy this Father’s Day, we have a secret deal that’s just too good to pass up.

Through tomorrow (6/14), we’re offering the Caden Lane Daddy Messenger Bag for 50% off!

That magenta-lined, leopard print tote looks fabulous on you, but I bet your hubby would rather be caught dead than have his buddies spot him sporting it around town.

Some quick stats on the bang for your (reduced!) buck:

Adjustable straps and flap top cover
Water resistant, clear lining
Coordinating changing pad with velcro closure
Matching zippered 5” x 7” plastic sack
Removable bottle insulator
Multiple pockets, keychain snap, toy/paci clasp and spoon loops
Spot clean exterior with diluted cleaner and warm water

Style file: soy adorable!

2008-06-12T08:16:00.007-05:00

Itty bitty soybeans have crept their way into just about every food, home, and industrial product imaginable. The little legumes have posed as burgers, milk, cleaner, hair products, candles, crayons. You name it, and it probably has a soy version already on the market, or at least in the works.

As responsible adults in today’s wasteful times, we’re all trying to do our part to be more eco-conscious in our daily lives. But as parents, it’s truly frightening to consider the amount of waste our little people create.

Babies outgrow clothes at an ungodly pace, demand new toys just about as quickly, and burn through diapers like there’s no tomorrow.

If transitioning to cloth diapers is more your gag than your gig, there are other environmentally friendly ways to rope your little one into the cause. And Two Blue Peas is here to help.

Brand new to our offering is Babysoy – a line of “sustainable clothing” made from part soy, part cotton. Even we were a little hesitant at first. Will it be stiff? Will it have an odor? Will the dog incessantly lick my baby’s back because it tastes soy good?

I’m happy to report that none of the above are even remotely a factor. The clothes are soft, smooth, and almost have a silky cashmere feel. The designs are precious, and the warmth retention is comparable only to wool.

Just one more way Mother Nature is helping moms like you take care of your children and the world they live in.

> Browse Babysoy at www.twobluepeas.com

Things we love: sleeves on a blanket

2008-06-11T07:44:00.001-05:00

As I sit here trying to pick something I love to post about today, my creative juices are frozen stiff by the frigid air surrounding me. I wake considerably earlier than my husband – who insists on sleeping in near arctic conditions – so the first hours of my day are spent braving an indoor TX blizzard while trying to get some work done.

Begin Billy Mays’ (you know, the extra loud bearded Oxyclean guy) screaming voice:

Is your husband a polar bear? Does a standard blanket make it tough to take care of normal tasks like typing, reading, channel surfing, or drinking coffee? Are your legs toasty but your arms left out in the cold for dead? Are you too cool for a bathrobe?

Over dramatization aside, all of these things seriously used to annoy me. Until my husband stumbled upon The Slanket! Though not the most attractive throw on the market, this seriously is The. Best . Blanket. Ev-uh.

It’s warm and fleecy, and big enough to cover me and provide shelter for the kitties. But best of all, it has arm holes so I can read magazines, eat my breakfast, and blog in the mornings without risking a precious limb to frost bite.

Oh, and now they make ‘em for kids. Perfect for chilly winter strolls around the block.