.

"Just" Playing....

2011-12-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

When I am building in the block room, please don't say I'm "just playing". For you see, I'm learning as I play, about balance and shapes. Who knows, I may be an architect someday.

When I'm getting all dressed up, setting the table, caring for the babies, don't get the idea I'm "just playing". For, you see, I'm learning as I play; I may be a mother or a father someday.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay, please don't let me hear you say, "He is just playing". For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm expressing myself and being creative. I may be an artist or an inventor someday.

When you see me sitting in a chair "reading" to an imaginary audience, please don't laugh and think I'm "just playing". For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I may be a teacher someday.

When you see me combing the bushes for bugs, or packing my pockets with choice things I find, don't pass it off as "just play". For you see, I'm learning as I play. I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or some "plaything" at my school, please don't feel the time is wasted in "play". For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learning to solve problems and concentrate. I may be in business someday.

When you see me cooking or tasting foods, please don't think that because I enjoy it, it is "just play". I'm learning to follow direction and see differences. I may be a cook someday.

When you see me learning to skip, hop, run and move my body, please don't say I'm "just playing". For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learning how my body works. I may be a doctor, nurse or athlete someday.

When you ask me what I've done at school today, and I say, "I just played", please don't misunderstand me. For you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learning to enjoy and be successful in my work. I'm preparing for tomorrow. Today, I am a child and my work is play.

~Anita Wadley

http://justplayingpoem.com/

Holiday Playful Planning Page!

2011-12-08T15:07:00.000-08:00

Download this Holiday Calendar and plan some playdates with your Beans!

How Kids Learn......

2011-12-08T02:34:00.000-08:00

I recently read a study on a group of 4 year olds. They were asked to stand as still as they could. Most could not stand for even a minute. But when asked to play make believe that they were guards manning a station, they could stand for longer than 4 minutes. In the same experiment, they were asked to memorize random unrelated words - which they all struggled to retain. Then they played Grocery Store and were asked to memorize a similar list - this time though, they were able to remember twice as many words.

Lesson learned - Spending more time on dramatic play will significantly improve their levels of self control, their language skills, social skills and processing skills.

With children it is all about PLAY!!!

FUNDRAISER - for Anaya

2011-11-29T13:00:00.000-08:00

What scares me

2011-11-17T22:07:00.000-08:00

If you are a fan or a follower of Peekaboo Beans, you know that I am passionate about the "Power of Play". As many of you know, I have two Beans of my own and I love to watch them explore the world, learn and grow. My journey to motherhood was long and challenging, and it gave me even more perspective on the blessing that I have in my life.

I want my children to be children, to have a childhood, to not feel the pressures and stresses of a fast paced world at such a young age. There is enough time later in life to experience this.

I parent in moderation. Candy in moderation, Technology and TV in moderation, I believe a healthy balance - not all or nothing.

So tonite as I was getting Cailin's homework organized and packed up, I flipped through the pages of her work as every parent does, taking in all her ideas, artistic creations and school work.

In the pile, was a book I bought for her while travelling recently to Banff. It was sweet note book that I thought would be great for road trips, or travelling - with a nice pack of pencil crayons in a neat tin box (I am a office supplies geek). It posed questions, like draw your family, draw your best vacation, draw your best friend.

I enjoyed seeing all her crafty pictures and smiled with that sense of motherly pride. I turned the next page to see the picture posted here. "Draw your favorite toy". She answered in picture - "I Heart IPAD".

Insert Mother "GASP".

And then my fears of how our world is changing, and how play is becoming a lost art, validated itself right before my eyes.

Obviously that was the first thing that came to her mind, when posed with the question. With ALL the lovely toys, dolls, puzzles, games and simple treasures she has - this is what she answered.

I remember my parents said to me, "come home when the street lights come on" and I long for that for my children. Yet we fear the saftey of our neighbourhoods and question our insticts of letting them go into the world and to fall down and get back up, and we become the "helicopter parent" - a buzz word for their day and age.

Yet they need to play and fall in order to grow.

So I ask you this - do the same things scare you?

Peeka BOOOOOO Beans

2011-10-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

2011-10-07T22:29:00.000-07:00

Speaking their language....

2011-08-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

All week long we held "Fashion Camp" at our corporate offices or what we dub "the Playground". So for a week, I have been driving 3 little girls into work everyday. Each day they chit chat in the back of the car as I drive, I secretly smile at their conversations. So amusing to get a glimpse into their sweet little lives and how they think. One conversation went like this "oh yeah, we did hip hop at our school too" "oh was the teacher the guy that had the earring and looked like a gangster" "what's a gangster?" "Oh someone who tells lots of jokes" "no, thats a prankster" "oh, same thing, whatever"?..

Smile....

The next day, the conversation started something like this. "Oh I watched that on Netflix" "oh you have Netflix" "ya and Apple tv", "oh your lucky" "oh my friend has nine t.v's in their house", "oh really, so and so has 5 computers", "ya I have a DS, and my Mom has and Ipad, so does my Dad, Plus an Iphone and my brother has an IPod touch....."

You see where I am going with this...

This is the generation they live in....this is what they know. It's happening. Period.

As we were arriving at Fashion Camp their minds shifted from the conversation and they could barely contain their excitement for the events that were to take place over the next four days.

And for the next 4 days, I watch ten girls, ages ranging from 5-12, completely engaged, sharing, helping, behaving, listening....creating.

Not one of them required to be talked to, there was no negotiating, no acting out, no rambunctiousness.

Now if you have been in a room with 10 kids for hours on end you can understand that the above is typically rare. There is always some sort of "intervention" that has to happen. After all, they are kids.

What moved me is that given the opportunity to create at their own free will, to not have rules, to not have boundaries, or methods, or guidelines, given space and time, they could immerse themselves completely in their projects, and create, assemble, invent, make...

They recycled clothing into new and interesting designs, they designed, bedazzled, sketched and rejoiced in each others neat ideas and offered up other perspectives.

A typical struggle in our house is trying to get our daughter to focus and do her homework. A daily struggle. Not once in this environment was there a negotiation.

It truly felt freeing. We were now speaking a language she understood, she was in her element and she was learning without even knowing it.

Now, I understand - I just have to learn her language and continue to speak it.

Clearly just playing for four days was the local tongue, without the 9 t.v.'s....

A Pod-Cast with Vancouvermom.ca

2011-07-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Traci’s Tips for Balance in Life
•You can’t be everything and everywhere. It takes a village to raise a family.
•Surround yourself be people who understand you, believe in your concept and passion, and value what you do. Make sure everyone is aligned to your vision.
•Build a support network by hiring the right caregivers and relying on friends and family.

Some Advantages Moms Have in Business
•Resiliency. Moms generally have thick skins.
•Practicality of empathy and understanding. If you can negotiate with children, you can negotiate anything.
•Multi-tasking. Moms are able to manage jumping from one thing to another.

Advice For Moms Starting a Business
•Be realistic. Ask yourself: on your darkest day, will your passion get you through it? Feel the fear and do it anyway.
•Give yourself time to work on your business.
•Understand cash and cash flow. Rather than focus on business planning, it’s less daunting to just put down your thoughts.

Being 2

2011-07-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

I recently posted this quote - "A two-year-old is kind of like having a blender, but you don't have a top for it. Jerry Seinfeld". It resonated with me - since that is the "stage" we are in...

I have two girls, one 7 going on 8 next month, and one - well.....TWO.

I find it so crazy to watch the littler one. She has no concept of danger, she runs across a street like a maniac as if nothing could harm her, she dances like Elaine from Seinfeld, she SCREAMS and YELLS and throws tantrums like there is no tomorrow - she will walk to the end of a cliff as if there isn't a drop as I leap through the air behind her like a rabid dog to save her.

She crys and laughs hysterically in the same minute. She doesn't share if she doesn't want to, she throws food, toys, food, well pretty much anything. She asks for pemission to do something she knows she shouldn't do, and when I tell her NO, she proceeds to do it anyway - and gives me the "look" - oh you know the look! She can turn me into a pile of mush with her glowing smile, and her precious cuddles and her angelic face - after acting like a firey devil for 18 hours of the rest of the day.

When I look at this, I am stunned and amazed at what it must be like to be in her body - the world is at her fingertips, she has no concept of rules, or boundaries - it must be like crazy bliss?

I envy this so much, but when I look at her, I am afraid of what is to come for her. We all have to conform at some point, as we can't act like two year olds the rest of our life - nor should we, as much as we may like to throw a good tantrum every now and again.

I guess what I am afraid of is, yes she might lose the "terrible twos" part (slightly happy for this to end), but will she lose that freedom of imagination too, the freedom to be?

That is why I love to Play with her - she sings while she plays, she doddles around with her tea set and states "make mamma cuppa coffee" while working away in her kitchen and feeding her imaginary friends. I love when she fake reads books, flipping pages and making the stories up on the pages, wiggling her little toes with excitement of what her little mind has thought up.

Conversely, my older daughter still loves to play, but can be more guarded in her imagination - more afraid to be free with herself in fear she might be judged by her peers.

At what point does this change and how can we help our children continue to fuel the fire of their imaginations?

I only hope you can help me find some answers and share some of your "terrible twos" too....

Fathers Day Contest!

2011-06-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Playing Outside with Peekaboo Beans

2011-05-18T22:15:00.001-07:00

Peekaboo Beans was born out of necessity. Why, when all children should really be doing is PLAYING - are the clothes they wear not designed for PLAY. Bunchy, pinchy, unfunctional, uncomfortable and not durable to top it all off?

My "ahha moment" and Peekaboo Beans was born.

As a Mom, Peekaboo Beans is my dream! Everyone has moments when they don't feel like the "perfect" mom, but when my girls go to their closets and pull out their beans and are playing in perfect comfort, ease and function (and looking so lovingly put together) - I do feel like a "good" Mom....

Top it all off it's Daddy Proof too :)

It just doesn't stop giving....

In my world, I am so blessed to have Peekaboo Beans part of my family ~ I hope you share that moment of "peace of mind" too :)

Lets PLAY outside

2011-05-17T00:34:00.000-07:00

It is Lets Play Outside week at Peekaboo Beans.

Grab your PB Duds and get some fresh air!!

Check out the fabulous promotions this week for all those fabulous Playdates!

Mommy Brain Contest - Vote for your favorite!

2011-05-11T12:24:00.000-07:00

Last week we ran the "mommy brain contest" and asked the moms to submit their best stories. We recieved so many entries through facebook and by email! Thank you to everyone who participated.

We want to share a few of our favorites with you. Please have a laugh with us and we'll use your votes and comments to help choose a winner of the $100 spa gift certificate.

Have fun!

1. I woke up in the middle of the night to use the washroom and noticed my daughters bedroom door was open, odd, so I checked her crib and she wasn't there! After yelling "OH MY GOD" I remembered she was at grandma's!!!
~ Nicola Bradley Pridmore

2. In one week I headed home and forgot to pick up the baby from the Dayhome and the same week I went to work, got out of the van and the baby waved goodbye to me.......oops I forgot to drop him off.
~ Chantal Norris

3. Ava had just finished her swimming lesson. She was 4 years old and she was standing in front of me while I towel dried her hair. I had a newborn at home and was exhausted. I remembered having this panicked feeling come over me and while vigorously towel drying her little head, I called out "Ava, Ava where are you?" this little voice pops out from right in front of me "I'm right here mama, who do you think I am?" I was so embarrased. She still tells this story to people.
~ Amber Stankievech Hark

4. I was booked for a C sectiono at 8am. 8 hours prior to this event around midnight, nesting habits to the max takes over. Trying to prepare for the next morning, I remember that we need gas in the car. So I barrel out of the house while everyone is asleep to go get gas. I get to the station right at the stroke of midnight just as the place closed up. Nowhere else in Tsawwassen has an open gas station this late. Oh, but in my major relapse in judgement, I think...."I'll go get gas in Pt. Roberts, USA". I have my driver's license, that should be good enough, right!?!?
I drive up to the custom booth, and I do not have my passport. I don't know what I was thinking. Why wouldn't they let a hugely pregnant lady with the possibility of giving birth in the states without a passport go through? I still struggle to this day the rational of my ever so logical thinking. There I was, detained in the customs office at 1am with my huge tummy, just 7 hours before I was supposed to be on the operating table, and 4.5 hours before I was supposed to get up to go. I was just 20 blocks from home, an no one knew where I was...all this FOR GAS!
Happy to report, that my story did have a gloriously happy ending too. Baby boy, Prince William, 9lbs 1 oz @8:15am, just 6 hours after getting gas in the states.
~ Minta Sherritt

5. When I was pregnant I had some shirts to bring to work for my assistants daughter. I could not find them anywhere and went crazy looking.
One day a month later they were cleaning out the office fridge and a memo went out asking who was storing a bag of shirts in the fridge.
Somehow I brought the shirts all the way to work and put them in the fridge!
~ Christina Skolaude

6. Then, I went back to return the clicker to my neighbor and thank her for her help. Her daughter was visiting and asked me what my baby's name is. I told her Peyton. She said she loved that name and asked what her middle name is. I drew a blank. For the life of me, I could not remember my own daughter's middle name. I stumbled and stumbled...she asked if I was sure that she was my baby. How embarrassing! She asked if I could remember my other daughter's name and thankfully I could remember that - Olivia Madelyn. "At least you remember that one!" she said looking at me quizzically. I began to panic, desperately searching my mind for her name and worried that I was truly losing it. I was flushed, beet red in the face and thought that this woman must think I am out of my head! I apologized and told her that I have mommy brain and explained how overtired I was and walked away with my head down. It wasn't until I returned home, after wracking my brain for a while, that I remembered that her middle name comes from my husband's grandma - Eleanor.
~ Krista Waller

My Journey to Motherhood

2011-05-02T22:55:00.000-07:00

I think at one point in my early life, I imagined that I would get married, have babies, live in the house with the white picket fence, and the sweet smell of freshly baked bread would waft from our home. Huh? Oh, how naivety is bliss!

My journey to becoming a Mom definately wasn't as easy as it was in my mind. Ten years of infertility, and enough in-vitro treatments that I lost count. At the time, it was all consuming as some may have experienced, or if not, you can imagine.

However, now I can look back on this experience and understand that although it was painful, it has given me the gift of gratitude, of joy, of love in the simplest purest form. I think it taught me to be more patient, more understanding, more empathetic. It also made me see a strength in myself that I might not have seen had we not gone through those challenges.

My life changed the moment that our little baby was born.

As I was chatting with someone today, I mentioned that that the experiences we go through make us who we are. Had I not gone through so much work to have our baby, I might not have enjoyed every single minute with Cailin through her early months and years, I might not have soaked up every smile, every giggle, every moment that I had with her and continue to, that I will carry in my heart forever.

That joy led me to create Peekaboo Beans, to create a product that focsued on play. To allow Cailin to play in comfort, in style and to empower her with all the life skills that play offers.

The world cannot be a better place if we do not take care of other families as well as our own, so I share Peekaboo Beans with you and all the joy that it brings your children. How it allows children to feel great, to feel special, to feel youthful and fun, to be COMFORTABLE, such a simple yet fundamental part of childhood.

I feel blessed for the challenges that have been presented to me in my life. They continually highlight what is important and what I am grateful for.

This week at Peekaboo Beans we celebrate you, Mommy. Mommies have a natural gift for making things better, for singing sorrows away, for kissing away "owies", for celebrating the big things and the little things, for understanding what your children need, for raising them in love and making a safe and fun environment for them to grow up in.

I am grateful to you all - because this is the world that my children will grow up in and their children will grow up in, and if they can meet your babies along the way, they can all work to make the world a better place together.

Don't forget to enter our contest this week - tell us your funniest "mommy brain" moment. Come on we have all had them!! Share and send us a laugh, you could win a delightful and blissful spa experience to take a bit of time for you!

You deserve it!

What is Pretty to you?

2011-04-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

A conversation between my 7 year old daughter this Morning.

Cailin obviously at the age of 7 is becoming more self aware and is exposed to much more things now being in school full time.

Cailin "Mommy I bought a book about Taylor Swift at the book fair, because I like her and she has a good voice".

Me "That's cool honey".

Cailin "I think she wears too much makeup - her lipstick is really dark".

Me "she does wear a lot of makeup doesn't she"

Cailin "does Lipstick make her pretty?"

Me "it doesn't MAKE her pretty, it just makes her look glamorous"

Cailin "Well Glamorous and pretty are the same thing right"

(Hmmm me thinking, what do I say here - thinking positive role model - body image, her life flashing before my eyes as a teenager, grown women, self confidence, positive body image - eeeek too much pressure, ok relax breathe, just answer the question!)

Me "no they aren't the same thing honey, pretty is (okay now wheels are turning - how do you DEFINE pretty) pretty is beauty from the inside out, it is everything about a person - that makes them beautiful (hmmm maybe too deep?) , glamorous is getting all "fancied" up as she is a performer....

So I asked her, and I ask you - what does PRETTY mean to you? How do YOU define Pretty?

Childhood can be magical

2011-04-24T22:25:00.001-07:00

I love holidays like today as it reminds me of how innocent childhood is. Last night was a evening affair of preparing for the Easter Bunny. The proper placement of the baskets, the coloring of the picture for "Him". The leaving of the carrots, washing, peeling and gently placing them out so the bunny would have energy to continue onwwards after leaving our home.

I find so much joy watching my daughters get lost in their imaginations and living in the space of pure freedom on thought. I am so envious of this. Can you imagine -literally? I assume this has to evolve as we age, otherwise we wouldn't beable to hold down jobs of responsibility, since daydreaming is not good on the resume.

I will cherish these moments, but it saddens me that this has to change as they get older.

So I challenge you (when it is safe) :) to simply get lost in your imagination, to dream as a child would dream, to play with your thoughts and let them run free.

I will see if I can get my Type A personality to enable me to do this, I think it must be the most freeing experience.

Supporting Families all around the world.

2011-04-20T01:57:00.001-07:00

At Peekaboo Beans, not only are we passionate about PLAYING we continually strive to support the working mother. One, by creating a working environment within Peekaboo Beans that supports her and her Beans. No one misses a field trip on our team :)! So we are looking at other ways to support our global families. Have you heard of ...http://www.kiva.org/? KIVA is a non profit organization that lends money to people in third world countries to help grow their businesses, whether it be, a little farm market, a seamstress or a street vendor. Next time you place an online order with Peekaboo Beans add some of LILAHS SILLY BEANS to your cart and 100% off the proceeds will be used to lend money through KIVA.

One Bean At A Time....

2011-04-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

I think pretty much, every day that presents itself to me, I have an abundance of gratitude. Even if it is a "bad" day, I see it as a learning opportunity for me. " I will ask myself what is this teaching me?"

So, what do I feel grateful for today? - Children, health, happiness, love, friendship, family, co-workers and the journey....

Peekaboo Beans has taken me on a journey that I would have NEVER expected. One that I have gained more understanding and strength from, that I have met the most amazing people, families and children from. One that has empowered me with a message of how important it is for us to be the pillar of strength for our children and allow them the space and freedom to grow through play.

It has taken me on a journey to provide a working environment that supports women and mothers. So that no one misses out on the precious moments of childhood.

I am afraid everyday at how the world is so quickly changing and that simple things are being lost.

So what do I have to say? Let kids play....simple as that...

Please continue on this journey with me and see how our garden can grow, and flourish....and change the world, one Bean at a time...

Playfully yours,

Traci

The Power of Play

2011-04-05T23:38:00.000-07:00

The lifelong benefits of PLAY

Play connects us to others

Sharing joy, laughter and fun with others promotes bonding and strengthens a sense of community. We develop empathy, compassion, trust, and the capacity for intimacy through regular play.

Play fosters creativity, flexibility, and learning

Play is a doorway to learning. Play stimulates our imaginations, helping us adapt and solve problems. Play arouses curiosity, which leads to discovery and creativity. The components of play - curiosity, discovery, novelty, risk-taking, trial and error, pretense, games, social etiquette and other increasingly complex adaptive activities - are the same as the components of learning.

Play is an antidote to loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and depression

When we play vigorously, we trigger a mix of endorphins that lift our spirits and distractions that distance us from pain, fear and other burdens. And when we play with other people, with friends and strangers, we are reminded that we are not alone in this world. We can connect to others in delightful and meaningful ways that banish loneliness.

Play teaches us perseverance

The rewards of learning or mastering a new game teach us that perseverance is worthwhile. Perseverance is a trait necessary to healthy adulthood, and it is learned largely through play. Perseverance and violence are rarely found together.

Play makes us happy

Beyond all these excellent reasons for playing, there is simply the sheer joy of it. Play is a state of being that is happy and joyous. Jumping into and out of the world of play on a daily basis can preserve and nourish our own hearts, and the hearts of our communities.

From Helpguide.org

The Perfect Dress to Play In!

2011-03-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

The Roots to Wings Dress is flying off the shelves right now (pardon the pun)!
My daughter who is 7 just loves this dress and paired with the sweet ruffle leggings - ahhhh to die for! It is as if she flew off a vine from Pixie Hollow!

Its time to play at Peekaboo Beans!

2011-03-01T06:34:00.000-08:00

It's all happening at PB Playground Headquarters. The girls are madly packing boxes and our online beans will be posted soon! Stay tuned for some exciting announcements in the days to come. Our vine is growing....

11 Step Program for those thinking of having kids

2011-02-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

This will make you giggle!

Lesson #3

A really good way to discover how the nights might feel...
1. Get home from work and immediately begin walking around the living room from 5PM to 10PM carrying a wet bag weighing approximately 8-12 pounds, with a radio turned to static (or some other obnoxious sound) playing loudly. (Eat cold food with one hand for dinner)
2. At 10PM, put the bag gently down, set the alarm for midnight, and go to sleep.
3. Get up at 12 and walk around the living room again, with the bag, until 1AM.
4. Set the alarm for 3AM.
5. As you can't get back to sleep, get up at 2AM and make a drink and watch an infomercial.
6. Go to bed at 2:45AM.
7. Get up at 3AM when the alarm goes off.
8. Sing songs quietly in the dark until 4AM.
9. Get up. Make breakfast. Get ready for work and go to work (work hard and be productive)

Repeat steps 1-9 each night. Keep this up for 3-5 years. Look cheerful and together.

The Importance of Play

2011-01-31T23:38:00.000-08:00

I found a blog post that shared some great ideas and benefits on the importance of play. Thought I would share...

Parenthood can be hard work. It can be exhausting, it can be challenging and it can wear us down. One of the best ways to combat that and really enjoy parenthood is to learn how to be playful again.

Most parents already play with their children, but it's often in action only. I'm not talking about getting down on the floor and playing Candyland for the 85th time or dutifully agreeing to play the part of Sparkle Pony (unless you really love Candyland and My Little Ponies). Those things are wonderful for children, but they don't do a whole lot for us.

The sort of playing that we need more of is the sort that makes us happy, too.

We need to be present when we're doing things with our kids, and find a way to do things to make it joyful for us at the same time.

One easy way to do this is to do things with our children that we love to do. If we love gardening, we can introduce our kids to gardening. If we love doing crafts, we can do them side by side. If we love baseball, we can take our kids to games and volunteer as coaches for Little League.

We need to take it farther than that, though. Those are hobbies and they're enjoyable, but they are different from the world of play that children naturally gravitate towards. If we join them in the truly magical play of childhood, it can do something magical for us as well.

When's the last time you ran barefoot in the grass with your child? When's the last time you jumped in a puddle? When's the last time you squished your toes in the mud or built a sand castle? Hopefully just this week! If not, why not? These things are fun!

There's even a bit of science behind the importance of play for all of us. Playing outside gets us more sun exposure, which gives us more Vitamin D (deficiencies are linked to everything from lowered immune function to depression) and sunlight is also a natural mood lifter. Physical exercise releases endorphins, which boost feelings of happiness and fight pain. Sensory activities help ground us and redirect our attention from stressors. Some movements that kids typically use in play (such as spinning, jumping and swinging) are even helpful for stabilizing our emotions and helping us focus later. And laughing... well, that helps us in an infinite number of ways.

Here's some more ways to play today....

Go to the park and swing on the swings and use the equipment with your kids.
Fly kites.
Blow bubbles.
Go rollerskating or rollerblading.
Jump on the trampoline
Play tug of war. To make it even, put all the kids against you or play one-handed.
Take your dog (or borrow a friend's) to the park with the kids and wear everybody out playing fetch or something similar.
Buy a pack of rocket balloons and find a wide open space to shoot them off.
Have a water balloon fight. Aim for legs unless people ask to be hit higher so the little ones aren't terrorized.
Play the alphabet balloon game inside. Blow up a balloon and take turns bopping it with the kids. The catch? You have to say a word that starts with whatever letter you've chosen before you can hit it. Older kids need to say 2 syllable words and grown ups need to say 3 (or even 4) syllable words.
Play a video game together.
Shoot hoops in the driveway or park.
Play a nighttime game of hide-and-seek or flashlight tag in the back yard.
Find a big mountain of dirt and climb it together.
Play Marco Polo and other water games in the pool.
Play marbles.
Hula hoop. I bet it'll be harder than you remember! :)
Whatever it is, just try to get messy, get active, get goofy and have fun!

Parenthood can be hard work, but it can also be a lot of fun if we let it. It is also so much more fun for kids when we are truly having a blast along with them.

We parents need magical moments, too.

Boys Only Week - Starting January 17

2011-01-09T23:36:00.000-08:00

What my life would look like

2010-12-28T22:48:00.000-08:00

Of course one year winding down and a New Year soon upon us often sparks reflection and thought. Each year with children brings upon a new phase in a families dynamics. With babies life looks different, with busy toddlers life looks different, and now for me with an early adolescent (who by the way, knows EVERYTHING) and shall we say a lovely and "spirited" toddler, life looks different! Some phases are more physical and tiring, and some phases are more emotionally trying (each adding a little more "character" to our aging faces). This could probably be best defined by travelling with young children. Playpens, car seats, strollers, high chairs, luggage, bottles, diapers, slings, bibs, wipes, the list is endless - the security people would gringe when we walked up, all of us in a full sweat! But as they get older the "stuff" gets less and travel becomes a little easier and calmer, shall we say?

At one point in my life I didn't even know if we would be able to have children - and now I am blessed with two amazing little girls who have enriched my life beyond words. Life certainly would have looked different.

Cailin being my first Bean, paved the way towards Peekaboo Beans, by offering me the simple insight of the need to empower children and to give them tools to learn about life through play. So now Peekaboo Beans offers life tools based around their clothing to dress with ease, to delight in dressing themselves with a mix and match "daddy proof" system, to allow for comfort and relief of irritating fussy clothes, and to be stylish to boot and most of all to just let them play.

I have many friends who have boys and me being the mom of two girls, I delight in the differences of what life would look like had we had boys. Oh how I would love to dress them up in that A+ Argyle Zip Up Jacket! So in celebration of the other half of the population we are having a BOYS ONLY WEEK, starting on January 17. We encourage you to send pictures, tell stories and delight in the wonderful little boys out there. We will be having contests, posts and an amazing opportunity to introduce your friends with boys to the product with some fabulous online BEAN-IFITS! You won't want to miss this one. Have girls? Refer a friend and get a fabulous set of our girly girl arm bands or a headband!

For now, enjoy today - because tomorrow, life will look different....

Roots and Wings

2010-12-22T22:53:00.000-08:00

It would be really helpful if at the hospital when your baby was born they handed you a manual, just a simple one. If it could just lay out in a nice step by step format, how to raise a healthly, happy, well adjusted child and thus adult. It would just take out a lot of the guess work and well, make life a little bit easier....right? Unfortunately, they don't. So we have to navigate the best we can with the gazillion "manuals" out there, coupled with some common sense and instict. Sleep Manuals, Discipline manuals, Feeding manuals and education manuals and so on and so on and so on!

What is best? I sometimes feel there is a fine line between engaging my 7 year old in various extra curricular activities and giving her the freedom and space to play or just relax. Both are so relevant and important in life. I had a defining moment a few days ago, when my daughter performed a Tap Dance number in a school wide Talent Show. The gym was full of hundreds of kids and out of 50 kids that auditioned, 20 made the show. So several children so bravely performed their numbers. You could tell which performances were a hit with the crowd and you could tell when the crowd got shifty and ansy for ones that were less interesting to them. Then a young asian boy came up with a Cello in hand, he was in grade seven. He looked shy but confident. As he approached the stage is fellow classmates, being grade 7 and all - heckled him, laughed with each other, and joked around almost uncomfortably. The little boy gently placed the bow on the cello and began to play, I was nervous for him, but as he played the crowd noise died down, the hecklers became still, the crowd was captivated and moved. The music was stunningly beautiful and he played with such passion, almost bringing tears to the parents eyes (me specifically). At the end of the performance, the little boy stood up and took a bow. At that point the crowd cheered and roared.

I don't know if that little boys parents had put a cello in his little hands as a baby, whether he had missed out on many opportunities to just play or hang out with his friends, because he had intense cello lessons, or whether he had a nice balance of both and simply was very talented and encouraged by his parents. Regardless of either, it made me see that is important to allow them the space and freedom to find out what THEY are good at, and to support their strengths with love and praise. That this acknowledgement will give them the courage and ability to soar. And that one day, they can feel confident to walk up on the stage on what seemingly was an "uncool" performance and to show that being you is cool in itself.

Our Spring 2011 collection is called "Roots and Wings" and although it doesn't come with a manual, we hope you will enjoy the inspiration. As we watch our children grow, they are certain to fall and scrape their proverbial knees, but they will have you by their side to help pick them up and guide them along the journey...give them the Roots to Grow and the Wings to Fly....

Time to "Pway"...

2010-12-20T22:10:00.000-08:00

Play....what does the word mean to me? I struggle with this a bit since I have a hard time relaxing and like many mom's, an ever growing to do list. However if there is one thing that can pull me back to reality, it is a sweet little pony tailed two year old tugging at my finger, reciting "pway mommy, pway". Now I am suggesting that this mean's "play" in her world, perhaps she just wants to pray, hmmm thinking not? In any event, I find it a struggle at times to just "be". At some points in our home there is a seven year old on a Nintendo DS, Daddy on the IPAD, Baby playing Old McDonald on the Iphone and Mommy on her laptop. What happened to a good ol' game of go fish or crib? My two year old daughter taps on my laptop like it is an Itouch and becomes frustrated when the photos don't glide across the screen with ease. Who knew that a lap top would seem dated. At Cailin's dance studio, kids wait in the waiting room, while their siblings are in class, all playing on their own Ipads, while mom and dad get caught up on various things on their phones or other gadety things during this "downtime". Although I love all these conveniences I sometimes wish they would all go away, for a bit anyhow. Perhaps this is just my own lack of discipline, I suppose I could just make them go away, if I tried. So I talk about "Play" a lot - and the importance of play. I believe it is my own desire to just sit and play. To make believe to forget about the pinging in my pocket, to truly be with my kids, to enjoy what they are saying, to relish in those precious moments that I know will all go far to quickly for me. That back to basics play that engages, that defines, that problem solves, that is creative, that is magical. When you watch children truly play, you see that the world and vision has no limits. So although I know that structure is not only necessary it is imperative for children to feel safe, learning and social growth all come from giving children the space and freedom to just "be" and just play in whatever form that means to them. Simply put, nothing can bring me more joy then to witness this, so for now, I will just pray for some time to just "pway"....:)

Join together to help our friends in need...

2010-07-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

My name is Traci Costa and I am hoping you can help our dear friends. My husband Brad has been long time friends with Jeff (Pereira) since they were young boys. Jeff was in our wedding party and Brad in his. We have shared the joys of life as Jeff got married to the lovely Chandra and were blessed with their two beautiful babies. It deeply saddens me to the core to that they are faced with the tragedy of a losing their precious Logan and as of July 8th, Jeffrey's mother Jeannine. I have seen so much love and prayer for them on Chandra’s Facebook page and we are all struggling with how we can help them out. I am hoping that many of you will help in our goal to support their family during this difficult time. I have set up an account in memory of sweet Logan and Jeannine. If you would like to contribute any amount of money, big or small, so that they can use these funds for whatever they need to get through this devastation. This might be bereavement counseling, some time off needed to heal or a bench or monument in the name of Logan and his wonderful Grandmother, Jeannine. Please don’t feel you need to, but if you would like, I am sure it will help. The power of all us together could help them through this difficult time. Even if you did not know them, I hope you will consider a small donation, even $5.00 or $10.00 possibly in the name of your little loved ones.

I have created a Pay Pal donation centre where you can easily log into and make any sum of payment via credit card. When I transfer funds to the Pereira’s, I will make note of your contribution and a name you wish this to be on behalf of.

Here is the link...

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=RHGGCPCYSBVNA

Thank you so much for your generosity, I know it won’t go unnoticed.

With love and prayers,

Traci Costa

PS: Here is an online news article on the terrible tragedy - http://www.wsmv.com/news/24148166/detail.html

Store Profile of the Week - CHIRPS

2010-06-14T16:13:00.001-07:00

Chirps Children's Store opened in the heart of Richmond, BC in the fall of 2009 by "mom & dad preneurs" Leigh & Patrick Ireland. Chirps is dedicated to taking a "back to the basics approach" with modern sensibility when it comes to kids and all the great stuff available for them in today's marketplace.

Chirps is about unique, safe, eco-friendly, Canadian "mom & dad-preneur" inspired... toys, great reads, and funtastic playwear like Peekaboo Beans! We're also about great games for family night, world music, natural spa products, fun craft ideas, green science kits and the odd retro find just for fun! Kid stuff you just won't find at the big box retailer.

And what are our young customers saying about Peekaboo Beans? The clothes are "soooooooooooooooooo comfortable!" Leigh and Patrick love them too! "The styling, quality, and attention to detail is exceptional and we especially love the Canadian factor!" says Leigh.

We look forward to welcoming you all to the world of Chirps and serving you soon! Chirps Children's Store is located in the Garden City Centre at 9040 Blundell Road in Richmond. Phone 604-278-7272 or email at chirps@shawbiz.ca

Cailin and Colbies Pick of the Week

2010-04-25T23:08:00.001-07:00

check out Cailin and Colbies PICK OF THE WEEK and other cute fashion tidbits here! http://bit.ly/cHjZ8Y

The Importance of Play

2010-04-25T23:06:00.001-07:00

This is a facinating look into the importance of play in our childrens lives. Take some time to listen to it and learn more - also pointing out that play is not only important for kids but for adults too - http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2FEQx61&h=55560

Love your Planet

2010-04-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Return your old Peekaboo Beans duds to our offices and we will donate them to a local shelter and give you $10 worth of playmoney to use at participating retailers!

Raise them Fabulous - Thanks Sweetmama.ca

2010-04-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

Peekaboo Beans is featured on Sweetmama.ca for top 20 Spring Finds for your little trendsetter! Check out the fashionable and fun - Island Style Dress

YOYOMAMA

2010-04-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

Thanks Yoyomama for the rave review!

See below for details:

In our first spring fling fashion feature we introduced you to some new lines we love and now, in part two, we’re revisiting (appropriately) two of our old favourites who have new offerings:

We’ve found kids’ clothes from Peekaboo Beans to be remarkably hard-wearing. Plus we appreciate that they’re easy on and off, wash and wear and their designs and fabric take the needs of both mums and kids into account.

Designed in Vancouver with a focus on playwear, they’ve been gathering steam for awhile now and we’re particularly smitten with their ocean-inspired Spring 2010 line. For girls they’re throwing a “seashore soiree”– think mermaid pants, luau skirts and sea urchin hoodies. Their “wave rider” line for little lads combines great blues, greens and grays into comfy hoodies, tanks and hang loose tees.

Alas, you can’t see the full collection online, instead you need to view it via PDF but it’s already popping up in stores across Canada. We also like that the hang tag for each item can be reused as a bookmark and includes a Dr. Seuss quote. What’s not to like about mixing and matching playtime clothes and literacy?

Alas, no matter how adjustable the waistband of some kids’ pants are, for particularly weedy tots (and we know a remarkable number of them), you simply can’t get them to stay up. Which is where Cinch Belts from Bugalug come in handy.

But unlike the barrettes and headbands Bugalug’s know for, these belts offer stay up, reversible, two-in-one style for boys and girls. For boys it’s a cinch up with skulls, checkers and flames, while girls can accessorize with flowers, butterflies and (our personal ‘80s throwback favourite) argyle.

The built in elastic marries form with function to keep your little one’s pants in place and the simple snap closure is pretty easy to do and undo. The only time we wouldn’t recommend belting up with one of these is if your little one is potty training as who needs to add any extra steps and snaps into that process?

Peekaboo Beans: www.peekaboobeans.com

A Lifetime of Worry - Author Unknown...

2010-01-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

WORRY

Is there a magic cutoff period when
Offspring become accountable for their own
Actions? Is there a wonderful moment when
Parents can become detached spectators in
The lives of their children and shrug, "It's
Their life," and feel nothing?

When I was in my twenties , I stood in a hospital
Corridor waiting for doctors to put a few
Stitches in my daughter's head. I asked, "When do
You stop worrying?" The nurse said,
"When they get out of the accident stage." My
Dad just smiled faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my thirties , I sat on a little
Chair in a classroom and heard how one of my
Children talked incessantly, disrupted the class,
And was headed for a career making
License plates. As if to read my mind, a teacher
Said, "Don't worry, they all go through
This stage and then you can sit back, relax and
Enjoy them." My dad just smiled
Faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my forties , I spent a lifetime
Waiting for the phone to ring, the cars to come
Home, the front door to open. A friend said,
"They're trying to find themselves. Don't worry,
In a few years, you can stop worrying. They'll be
Adults." My dad just smiled faintly
And said nothing.

By the time I was 50, I was sick & tired of being
Vulnerable. I was still worrying over my
Children, but there was a new wrinkle. There
Was nothing I could do about it. My
Dad just smiled faintly and said nothing. I
Continued to anguish over their failures, be
Tormented by their frustrations and absorbed in
Their disappointments.

My friends said that when my kids got married I
Could stop worrying and lead my own
Life. I wanted to believe that, but I was
Haunted by my dad's warm smile and his
Occasional, "You look pale. Are you all right?
Call me the minute you get home. Are
You depressed about something?"

Can it be that parents are sentenced to a
Lifetime of worry? Is concern for one another
Handed down like a torch to blaze the trail of
Human frailties and the fears of the
Unknown? Is concern a curse or is it a virtue
That elevates us to the highest form of life?

One of my children became quite irritable
Recently, saying to me, "Where were you? I've been
Calling for 3 days, and no one answered I was worried."
I smiled a warm smile.
The torch has been passed.

Amazing Testimonials

2010-01-06T01:17:00.000-08:00

Everyday we receive new testimonials from all over the world from families who live and breathe Peekaboo Beans - here is one that especially touched my heart

"My little boy was diagnosed with autism last spring. High functioning and lots of potential for good progress, but very very painful and hard all the same. He's a lovely little guy, though -- just with a few tough challenges. Difficult to see where it's all going, but we try to stay positive. I read your testimonials and couldn't agree more, the clothes are so comfortable (both the fabrics and the design) that even my tactile-sensitive little guy is comfortable in them. Some mornings it's all I can do to get him into clothes, and I always breathe a sigh of relief when I see some Peekaboo Beans pants in the drawer! Thanks for making such great products. I also like about the clothes are sized so generously that they last a few years.”

Thanks for sharing ~

Thoughts for 2010

2010-01-06T01:03:00.001-08:00

Health:
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is
manufactured in plants...
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey
is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest
your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake.
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes
of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that t life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are
simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class
but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree....

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay
in touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up..
36. The best is yet to come.
37. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and Playful New Year....

2009-12-23T12:16:00.000-08:00

I remember some of my fondest family times around Christmas. The anticipation of Santa's arrival is so over the top exciting for kids.

Enjoy the next few days with family and cherish Christmas as if you were kids again....

All our best to you and your families over the holidays.

Traci

Happy First Birthday Baby!

2009-12-21T22:18:00.001-08:00

My baby turns ONE!
Colbie Makena born December 17, 2008

Lounge Around with Peekaboo Beans

2009-12-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

A Christmas morning tradition!

Get your comfy Christmas Lounge sets now.

Stock is limited so don't miss out.

To place your order contact 604-279-BEAN or orders@peekaboobeans.com

For those last minute gifts - they come gift wrapped and ready to go!
We can ship for you!

Babycheeks in South Surrey

2009-12-21T14:20:00.001-08:00

Just arrived in store today...

a HUGE box of Peekaboo Beans goodies! And since we are in the spirit of giving we will put it all on sale just for you! Enjoy 25% off all current Peekaboo Beans until December 24th.

Also arrived is a shipment of the super cute and limited edition Holiday Lounge Set from Peekaboo Beans.

Our gift to you, enjoy our special promotion
price of $45 for the Holiday Lounge Set
regularly priced at $69. Hurry in, limited quantities available, starting at size 2 up to size 6.

____________________________________________________

babycheeks
Elgin Corners
101-14012 32nd Ave
South Surrey

www.babycheeks.ca
babycheeks@shaw.ca
778.292.0495
click here to check out the latest at
www.babycheeksboutique.blogspot.com

Urban Rush Appearance

2009-07-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

We had a great Fashion Show on Urban Rush with Michael and Fiona this week! They are so friendly and easy to work with and it was very fun! We had a little fashion show with our little fashionistas, Olivia, Cailin and Carson and our Mommy models too! Thanks to everyone :)

Peekaboo Beans Takes on NEW YORK

2009-04-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Peekaboo Beans Girls Playwear Wins Fall 2009 Best in Show in New York

Vancouver, BC (April 22, 2009) - Vancouver based children’s clothing line, Peekaboo Beans, made a big splash in New York this past March at the ENK Childrens Club, an internationally renowned trade show. Designer Traci Costa walked away with the prestigious award for “Best in Show Newcomers” for her Fall 2009 girls collection.

The fashionable yet functional collection received the award alongside Tori Spelling’s Little Maven line, which took home the “Best in Show” award for the boys side.

This season’s award winning collection, inspired by the first snowfall of winter, incorporates warm berry and oatmeal hues with cozy fabrics like French terry and soft jersey. Designed for a playful lifestyle, the brand also boasts special features including mix-and-match (Daddy-proof) dressing, versatility with safety features too. All prewashed - so no surprises! Little details include sleeves with thumb-loops for bunch free sleeves, longer-length shirts for buddha bellies and reversible styles for play on the go!

Combining her love of fashion and children, Traci Costa has found her niche.“I like to work with my team and create a collection each season that follows our mission to combine style with substance.”

While impressed with the fashion forward designs, industry insiders have also remarked how Peekaboo Beans bridges couture playwear with market relevant pricing and sophisticated merchandising.

“It's the first time since we launched the awards that we've honored a collection, obviously geared to big sales. Peekaboo Beans is commercial but it has all the earmarks I look for in smaller, personal lines.” Tina Barry of The Online Guide to the Children’s Marketplace writes. “Peekaboo Beans is the hottest game in town”

“We were obviously thrilled to learn of this award" says Traci Costa. "To receive an accolade from such a credible and respected group will prove invaluable as we grow our company".

Adorned by celebrity tots - Sarah MacLachlan and Erica Ehm are fans - Peekaboo Beans is becoming one of the most exciting names in the children’s clothing industry. The line is made in Vancouver, Canada and can be found in retailers all across North America as well as online.

For more on the features and benefits and to view photos of the current and past collections please visit the Peekaboo Beans website www.peekaboobeans.com

-END-

For more information or to schedule interviews with Peekaboo Beans designer, Traci Costa, please contact:
Malania Dela Cruz | Dela Cruz Public Relations
(6... | malania@delacruzpr.com

Fall 2009 - WONDERMENT COLLECTION

2009-01-29T18:35:00.000-08:00

We officially launched the Fall 2009 Collection to buyers across Canada and the USA last week. Our Fall/Winter 2009 Collection celebrates the Wonderment children experience with the first magical snowfall of the season....the response was overwhelming! With delicate flowing colors for girls and edgy border styles for boys, we can't wait to share it with you...

SPRING 2009 - Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum

2009-01-29T18:14:00.001-08:00

Our Spring 2009 Collection - Marching to the Beat of Your Own Drum will launch soon! This collection is inspired by the uniqueness of children and their expression of this through the love of music. Don't miss out on this rock star inspired playwear vibe. Coming soon to retailers near you and online....

Our Lemonade Stand

2009-01-29T18:04:00.000-08:00

I wanted to introduce Colleen Kolmel who started with Peekaboo Beans this January. Colleen is our Sales and Marketing Manager (and in Peekaboo Beans world, Lemonade Stand Sales). With a big background in Corporate Sales behind her (her most recent job at Tommy Hilfiger)she joins us after the birth of her second little boy Nathaniel. Colleen will be supporting our sales team, managing Customer Service and expanding our uniform business, and new business in the USA. If you need to get ahold of Colleen her email address is colleen@peekaboobeans.com, the lemonade stand is now officially open!

Our Newest Peekaboo Bean

2009-01-29T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well it has been quite some time since I last posted....and a lot has happened! I wanted to introduce my newest Peekaboo Bean, Colbie Makena Costa - my daughter who was born December 17 2008. She was 6.11 pounds and has almost doubled her weight now. She is healthy and happy! We can't wait until she can start modelling her Peekaboo Beans...

The Memories that Make Me

2008-08-30T06:42:00.000-07:00

Our Fall 2008 Collection has been shipped to stores now. It is a beautiful collection celebrating the childhood memories that make us who we are today. This seasons collection was dedicated to my grandparents who unselfishly gave their love and time to my brother and I growing up. They lived up at Deka Lake where we spent every Summer and enjoyed every last minute of it. It's detailing and styling is symbolic of life in the country. I started the collection over a year ago and we launched the collection this month. Last week my grandfather passed away sadly at the age of 89 - I am proud to dedicate this collection to him and to thank him for giving me all the wonderful gifts of love that he unconditionally gave and for providing me with so many wonderful memories that have made me the person I am today, and that I can pass on to my children. Please enjoy the collection and cherish your little ones. Each day is a gift.

Peekaboo Beans on Global TV

2008-07-07T01:22:00.000-07:00

If you missed the plug on Global TV Noon News last Monday, check out www.westcoastfamilies.com and click the link to GLOBAL TV, they have the link posted! Thanks for all your continued support of Peekaboo Beans.

The Latest and Greatest

2008-07-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

Check out some new additions to the site - our FALL 2008 Sneak Peak is now posted. Get a glimpse at what is coming out for Fall. You won't want to miss this collection. It is our best yet! Also check out the $95,000 Baby Shower hosted by 95.3 Crave FM and Peekaboo Beans as one of the many fabulous sponsors! AND, don't get forget to get your vote in for Peekaboo Beans as Canada's Top Mom Entrepreneur! We can't win without your votes. Just click on the VOTE button and vote vote vote! Check out all the new updates today and come back and in a few weeks the entire website will be switched over to FALL 2008. So exciting.

Peekaboo Beans in action

2008-03-20T22:12:00.000-07:00

We always love seeing Peekaboo Beans in action! Thanks for sharing some of these adorable photos!

Win Free Stuff!!!

2008-03-11T23:46:00.001-07:00

Mummy Wins
Peekaboo Beans Prize Pack

Yummy Mummies know when choosing kids clothes, they need to be have the four "ables" - fashionable, functionable, comfortable and durable. Canadian lifestyle brand, Peekaboo Beans has created a line of adorable (and durable!) duds - a perfect combination of style and comfort.

This month we're giving away four Peekaboo Beans playwear prize packages for boys and girls aged 1 to 8.

One grand prize worth $250 and three secondary prizes worth $150

visit www.yummymummyclub.ca to enter!!!

The Baby Planners™ | a Baby Concierge & Consulting Service for Expectant Parents.

2008-03-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

We are always sending out product to get reviewed and we recently send a bag of goodies to a fab Los Angeles-based baby concierge and consulting service that caters to the needs of expectant parents nationwide. What wedding planners are to newly-engaged couples, The Baby Planners™ are to parents-to-be. Here is what they said...

"Thank you so much for the adorable outfit that you sent us and your interest in The Baby Planners! We gave it The Baby Planners test and it definitely gets our Seal of Approval! Love the itch proof tags and comfy fabric - it's a winner"!!

Stylish and Functional Uniforms - What a concept!

2008-03-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Peekaboo Beans is excited to launch our Uniform Collection PB Uniforms - Uniforms for Kids on the Grow. Our uniforms are functional and fashionable, yet still keeping with tradition! Our uniforms have already made there way into local schools. If you need more information - please call 604-536-9495 or email play@peekaboobeans.com. Be the first to experience this new wave in uniforms!

Savvy Mom

2008-03-09T22:46:00.000-07:00

Co-Founder of Savvy Mom, Sarah Morgenstern and me

Yummy Mummy

2008-03-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

Andhra, Erica Ehm and me, lunching at Bowl in Toronto

Road Trip

2008-03-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

Despite going to Toronto during the biggest snow storm in 30 some odd years, Andhra and I survived a whirlwind trip to Toronto last week. Our saving grace was the GPS system, whom we appropriately named "loupy lou", although she always got us where we needed to go, it wasn't without making many loupyloo turns. We had a great visit with the Savvy Mom team, a yummy lunch at Bowl (Savvy Mom approved) with yummy mummy Erica Ehm. We finally got to meet the lovely store owners that have been selling Peekaboo Beans and also got to introduce the line to several new stores that will be carrying the line in Fall 2008. One highlight in particular was navigating down the road to our next store visit, turning and seeing an amazing Peekaboo Beans window display in this funky fabulous kids store, again, approriately named Funky Baby, in the Beaches area. It made the four hour flight delay coming home a little more palatable!!

Sweetheart Ball

2008-02-27T23:49:00.000-08:00

Peekaboo Beans was a proud Sponsor at the Rethink Breast Cancer "The Little Sweetheart Ball", last Sunday. Funds raised help young people who are concerned about and affected by breast cancer. This babylicious affair was full of activities for socialites big and small, including a fabulous little fashion show featuring our little harijuku girls and ninja boys! Check out these fab photos. Thank you to all the volunteers and people who put on such a wonderful event for a very important cause.

Fumbling Towards.....

2008-01-26T02:09:00.000-08:00

Peekaboo Beans....?!

We have added Sarah McLachlan to the Peekaboo Beans fan base (who would have thought)!

I went out to collect the mail the other day and sifted through the pile of endless bills as per usual and to my delight received a lovely gold embossed letter from Singer Songwriter and Canadian icon, Sarah McLachlan, hand written and personalized. As you can imagine, we were thrilled to receive such an gracious letter!

It was worth getting all the bills that day!

Thinking Green

2008-01-26T01:56:00.001-08:00

In our goal to be concious of how our business affects the environment, we might not move mountains (yet), but we are trying to do our part. We recently donated 700 school bags to the Wind and Tide preschool. These bags were created from scrap and end of roll fabric that might otherwise end up in the landfills. A big thank you to Togi Garments that donated their time and effort in sewing the bags for the school. The bags will be used for things like bringing books, show and tell and snacks back and forth to school. Our next project for the school are art smocks for all the little Van Gogh's!

Purchase your Peekaboo Beans

2007-12-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you are looking to purchase Peekaboo Beans, either pieces from our Fall collection or our Christmas Lounge sets, please let us know your order and we can either fulfill the order for you or locate the product through one our many retailers and we will ship it directly to your house. We accept, Mastercard, Visa or American Express, if you want to pay by cash you can also pay by Paypal. We want you to be satisfied, so just let us know, product name, color, and size! You will love your purchase - we guarantee it! Email your order or questions to play@peekaboobeans.com!

Giving Back

2007-12-02T23:48:00.000-08:00

It is nice to teach our children about giving to the less fortunate, especially at this time of year. At Peekaboo Beans it is important to us to give back throughout the year, but this Christmas, with the help of our manufacturing partner and Wind and Tide Preschool, we facilitated the donation of 500 long sleeve shirts to the Union Gospel Mission (Hope for the hungry, hurting and homeless). It gives us a warm and wonderful feeling to beable to help in the small bits we can. We are in the process of facilitating another 500 long sleeve shirts to the Front Room. If you have a special charity that you are involved with, please let us know and if the opportunity arises we hope we can help.

Peekaboo Power Stretch

2007-12-01T01:45:00.000-08:00

Caden is doing his morning power stretches in his Peekaboo comfies! Our christmas sets have flown off the shelves and have been featured already in West Coast Families, Global TV Noon News, eTalk Daily and will be featured in the Province next Tuesday!

Lounging Around

2007-12-01T01:38:00.000-08:00

I met a lovely hip mom at the Sweetheart Ball last year and how lucky for me she has become a dear friend AND a huge Peekaboo Beans supporter. Here are her lovely girls, lounging around in their Peekaboo Beans. Olivia has now been featured in two of our photoshoots and lucky for us doesn't like to take them off! My favorite story of Nicky's is her nephew loves Peekaboo Beans so much, prior to him owning his own, he would come over and wear Libby Lou's pink outfits around the house because he just loved them so much. Happily for him now, he has his own boy Peekaboo Beans digs and Olvia doesn't have to fight him for it. Thanks for sharing the stories! They always warm my heart!!

The Business Excellence Awards

2007-12-01T01:28:00.000-08:00

Peekaboo Beans was excited to learn we were nominated as Best New Business of the Year by the Surrey Board of Trade. From all the businesses throughout Surrey we made the final 10 nominees and from that final 10 we were selected as one of the top 3. We were featured on a 30 second video clip of our business at the banquet with over 450 of the top business people in our area viewing, and received some good press from it. So needless to say, it was a very exciting night for our growing little company. There is good news and bad news, the bad news is we didn't win, but the good news is I didn't have to speak in front of 450 people, to accept the award! However, as the saying goes, we were just happy to be nominated!! Maybe next year. During the night we did receive tons of positive praise and I know there were lots of supporters voting for us, so for that thank you to everyone who have continued to support us as we grow. Andhra and I are here accepting our plaque and our lovely gift basket (the consolation prize) :), no matter what, we still got to wear the dress!! Congrats to the other nominees and winners too.

70 Days 19 Hours and 47 Minutes Until Christmas

2007-10-15T02:11:00.000-07:00

Not that I am counting or anything - but just in case you wanted to tackle your christmas shopping early, order your Lounge Around with Peekaboo Beans, LIMITED EDITION Christmas Box sets.

Each gift set includes a Christmas Lounge set, in a "playful" gift box. We are offering a two piece girls lounge set, and a two piece boys lounge set. In sizes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Perfect for playing and lounging around the house in over the Christmas season.

If you are interested in a gift box set for a gift or for your loved one, please email me your order asap. Don’t miss out on this as there will be limited quantities produced.

They are made with a lightweight soft and comfy jersey (t-shirt) material, 95% Cotton and 5% Spandex (so they won't bag out)!

The boys t-shirt is a baseball style shirt with thumbhole loops (perfect for keeping hands warm), with a raw edge at the bottom. The pants have a drawstring waist, a faux zipper and oversized cuff on the bottom.

The girls tunic style top has a rolled edge hem and bell sleeves with a rolled edge hem and cute ruffle detail. Pants have a low-rise and drawstring waist, flare leg with a rolled edge hem and a ruffle detail.

Pieces feature our Peekaboo Bean Logo screen with Santa hats!

All pieces are prewashed, with iron on labels and flat seamless stitching for irritation free wearing and easy necklines for easy on and off.

A steal at $48.00! To order email me at traci@peekaboobeans.com

Best New Business of the Year - Business Excellence Awards

2007-10-15T02:02:00.001-07:00

We were ecstatic to have been nominated for BEST NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR and attended the nominee luncheon recently, where the top ten nominees for each category were awarded with a plaque. The other day I was browsing the paper and read that we made the final cut and are now in the top three! I was then contacted for a onsite interview and will be having a video presentation done that will be featured during the banquet on November 1 in front of 500 people for a black tie event! Thank you to everyone for the endless support and feedback and love for your Peekaboo Beans. Without that, I wouldn't be receiving this great opportunity. Now that IS excellent!

Like Apples and Oranges

2007-10-15T01:53:00.000-07:00

Check out the current contest our exclusive online retailer is having right now at www.apples-n-oranges.com, The Cutest Kid in Apples N Oranges. If you submit a photo with your cutee dressed in ours or any other of their Canadian brands you are entered in to win a great prize of none other than....PEEKABOO BEANS! Apples N Oranges also has a new registry option on their site too, it is great for showers, birthdays, Christmas and so easy to get all your shopping done at once. All while supporting local! Don't miss out.

Thanks for all the great work Vicki and Lara.

Mini Rave

2007-10-15T01:35:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Urban Family Events and Dance Generationz (www.dancegenerationz.com). for putting on such a fun event! Cailin and I, Andhra and Meena, Terynn and Teaghan, Nicky and Olivia moved and grooved at the Plush Nightclub dance party in September. Peekaboo Beans was a delighted sponsor - it was so great to see all the kids having soo much fun!

The next event is scheduled for October 21, 2007. Check out their site for ticket details. Whole Family DJ Dance Party invites parents with babies, toddlers and children of all ages to this family hotspot. Featuring a live DJ, roomy dance floor, toy-filled relaxin' room, bubble machines, healthy snacks included, on-site photographer offering free sittings and special guest performers!

Thanks to Jenny Slin for the contribued photo - www.jennyslinnphotography.com

Cailin and I are raising the roof centre front!

Look out Dolce and Gabanna...

2007-09-08T00:35:00.000-07:00

We have many aspiring little fashion designers out there and we wanted to showcase a few of our favs, from our Designer for the Day contest....check out these budding fashionistas! Hanna - we loved your CANDY SHOP theme, too cute! Lolo, loved the pant detail and matching little halter. Alexa and Melissa - my fav was the wrap skirt!

A shout out to Tessa - her theme fit perfectly in with our design theme and concept for our Fall 2008 line and we will be incorporating some of her ideas from her "Fishing" themed submission. Way to go girl! You can collect your prize in Spring, as I know the sizing will fit you then!

Keep the designs coming - we always love to see them!

Fall Website Launch

2007-09-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

We are excited to have launched our Fall 07 website with all the great new photos, testimonials and store locations. Thank you to all the parents who graciously offer up their beautiful children to take part in our photoshoots. They make all of this so fun! Big thanks to Stephanie (www.photographybystephanie.com) who makes my vision come true and Denise Miller (Fishbone) my amazing graphic designer and Ryan (Blue Bananas) for making it all come to life! I couldn't do it all with you guys. I love it!!

The Jepp Quadruplets in Calgary

2007-09-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Peekaboo Beans sent a goodie bag of stuff to the Jepp family in Calgary to congratulate them on the arrival of their identical QUADRUPLET girls! Dahlia, Calissa, Autumn and Brooke. The odds of having quadruplets is 1 in 22 million.

and I thought I was busy!! Congratulations and best of luck with your BUNDLES of joy!!

Shameless Peekaboo Beans Plug

2007-08-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

We are always thrilled when we receive testimonials from people, so you can imagine we were ecstatic to receive a testimonial from Erica Ehm. Erica Ehm is one of Canada's most recognized personalities. Chosen to be the first female MuchMusic host, she became the voice of her generation. Since then Ehm has remained in the spotlight as her multi-faceted media career has blossomed in television, radio, film, theater, journalism, songwriting, music publishing and now founder of the Yummy Mummy Club.

“Traci’s designs are so cool I think she should be designing for yummy mummies as well as their kids. Both my son and daughter adore your collection. They look so groovy in their Peekaboos and I love how the clothes are made to move and can take a beating. Please make me some clothes now!! Erica Ehm

Thanks Erica for supporting our Canadian Company, Peekaboo Beans and for being the voice of my generation and for celebrating the new generation of "Yummy Mummy's".

Keep spreading the Yummy!! Don't forget to check out her site at www.yummymummyclub.ca

Best New Business of the Year

2007-08-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to announce that Peekaboo Beans has been nominated for The Best New Business of the Year award by the City of Surrey. We will attend a formal banquet this November and could be accepting the award, "acedemy award" style - as described to me (and the winner is).....

Well and really, isn't it just another great excuse to buy a new dress.....

Buddha Bellies and Buggy Babies - KID YOGA

2007-08-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

Peekaboo Beans and Buggy Babies Fitness, presents

"Buddha Bellies and Buggy Babies" Get Back To It at Back to School!

Peekaboo Beans Beans and Buggy Babies Fitness have joined together to promote the importance of creating positive physical, mental & social habits of our children starting at any early age. You can start by allowing your child to explore the magic of yoga. Let your child be active, stay calm and maintain focus while having fun and feeling comfortable with their bodies and their clothes.

When you sign your preschool aged child up for 'Kids Yoga' with Buggy Babies Fitness for Fall 2007, they will be entered into our special draw. You could win a 3 piece outfit from Peekaboo Beans Fall Line, boy or girl sizes 2 to 6. Enjoy a new shirt, pants and a hoodie!!! Combining Style with Substance!

For more info visit
www.buggybabiesfitness.ca
www.peekaboobeans.com

Designer for a Day!

2007-08-27T10:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the little designers out there who submitted their designs for our "Designer for a Day" Contest! The submissions were adorable! We will be posting some of our favs online shortly and will announce our winner for some great Peekaboo Beans clothing next week! Stay tuned!

How Exciting

2007-08-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

I was talking to Denise my trusted Graphic Designer, confidant and "business therapist" as I like to call her, not to mention - dear friend - ! I mentioned to her that I really needed to start a blog as so much happens everyday with the business, and I want to keep connected with everyone in the community - she said well then DO IT - now! So as I was chatting with her, I did and it took me all of 5 minutes! So here it is my very first blog. So after a very hectic day ahead of me, I shall fill you in on all the happenings of Peekaboo Beans! Stay tuned.....
Oh and Thanks Denise!!!