Vanny Bean Organics

Recycling, Giving Back, and Making Money for your Schools...

2011-03-04T23:47:00.000-08:00

I've heard a very good message over and over again this week, its this video. Everyone who wants an inspirational message should listen to the video. In the video it talks about life lessons and meandering thoughts. The message talks about doing one thing every day that scares you. Think about that for a minute...Sometimes your ahead, sometimes your behind, the race is long. But if you could do that one thing every day, what would it be? How would it change your day? How would it change another persons day?

I thought about this early on in the week...I've been hearing for the past month that our daughters school has a Paper Drive. If you are not familiar with this, parents bring in newspapers, magazines, phone books, and office paper to the Paper Drive and at the end of the paper drive the school gets money for the amount of paper they turn in. If your school doesn't have a Paper Drive program, it's a great idea. Research it, talk to someone, and act on it!

Okay so I'm going to do one thing a day that scares me...Wow, that could be a lot of things, but finding something that scares me in a positive way to change the world. First thought, okay keep collecting papers and take it to the school drive. Nope nope that just wont do...Why wont it do? Because yes if every parent brings in newspapers that's a lot of newspapers right? But what if you could double that and how would you do that?

Our office has a huge recycling bin full of office papers, the box is taller than I am and certainly 3 times the size of an average person. If there's 20 people in the office and each person recycles their paper once a month that's nearly about 200 people recycling their paper. Asking around the office proved to be a great way to give back to the school and recycle at the same time. If more people did this for one paper drive could you imagine the impact it would make? So think about it...What is one positive impact change to make that would scare you to step outside your box.

Remember to wear sunscreen,
Your Friends at Vanny Bean

Reusable Trays for Kids

2011-03-03T21:30:00.000-08:00

My challenges at the grocery store include three things that are asked for inevitably, why is it that kids go crazy in a grocery store...so much to see, feel, look at and food companies do a great job of advertising! I struggle with the frozen food isle, bakery section, and the check out line due to all the candy that little hands are able to grab.

There is one particular item every time that is asked for...Anyone? Anyone? Yes, maybe you also have a child that asks for this same meal, chicken nugget convenient meals that come in the blue trays...Company remaned nameless but wow, I must say you have marketed this fully packagable high in fat and calories, terrible tasting meal to kids and have done a pretty good job of it...A definite A+ for my child asking for this meal every time. I usually give into this request out of time desperation at some time in the week, it's easy quick and usually includes some vegetable and let's not forget the hook line and sinker for all kids the gummies or the pudding with sprinkles.

When the meal is done, I don't want to throw away the tray and it seems that I could use it for something...The past few times, I have been tossing away this calorie packed preservative kids meal and cooking a chicken strip in the oven, adding some grapes, and corn to go along and Viola...a kids meal that looks and tastes better than a frozen one any day, time, money, and a plastic tray all saved in a day...

From our kitchen to yours,
Vanny Bean

Paper or Plastic?

2011-02-14T20:44:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who's noticed at the grocery store lately or for a while now...they never ask you for paper or plastic! Unless you routinely shop at Whole Foods where they don't even ask, it never seems to be an option anymore unless you request paper, you always get plastic.

At first, it seems like a trick question...which one is greener, better, and all around a cleaner choice for the environment? Plastic effects wildlife along the coast so those on the coast should choose paper but if you are in the Heartland plastic is the bag of choice. Both are taxing on the environment, Paper Bags use 14 million trees each year and cause 70% more air pollution than plastic bags. However, Plastic Bags each year use 12 million barrels of oil for plastic and 4 times solid waste, and lasts up to 1000 years. 1000 years is a crazy amount no matter how many times you 'reuse' the bag or recycle it. Choosing biodegradable bags whenever possible take up far less space but are not commonly available. So is there a right answer? I try to choose paper whenever possible even though I can fit more and carry more in plastic bags...The answer my friends is carrying your own shopping bags and using neither paper or plastic.

Cloth bags are reusable and if you set them in your trunk, you will be able to easily remember at the grocery store so you won't struggle with the moral battle at the check out of paper or plastic. Check out these A-Mazing statement bags with the 'Reduce Reuse Recycle' Tote for a fun day of picking some things up at the store...

Your Babies Can Paint and Color with Wee Can Too

2011-01-16T22:14:00.000-08:00

Yes that is right, if your baby is able to eat solid foods, then they can paint. Wee Can Too is an all natural, organic, vegetable and plant powder based art product that is even edible for your wee artists. Wee Can Too offers finger paints, chalk, and crayons for babies, toddlers, and school age children. The concept 'Art from the Start' was developed my a young mom searching for a healthier natural way for her baby to paint.

Wee Can Too started in 2007 by Sarid Ditton who had a passion for organics, cooking, and the safety of her children. There are many products on the market that say 'non toxic'. If you look at the ingredient lists on the back of the products and see Blue 1, Blue 2, Green 3, Orange B, Red 3, and Yellow 6 Blue 1 these are all dyes that can cause behavioral and hyperactivity problems in children as well as many other cancer causing agents. Most art products do not have to disclose their full ingredient list. All these dyes are bad news and should have no place in a young child's imagination at play. Our organic all natural finger paints have a tactile texture that's very stimulating for young children and is great art therapy for autistic children.

Wee Can Too offers all natural art supplies for your children. We realize that you want choices for your children and do not want to have to buy the art product on the shelf because it's the only one available. Wee Can Too believes in giving every child the opportunity to create masterpieces.

Be Healthy, Be Beautiful, Be You...Love Your Friends at Vanny Bean

Nursery Works in House and Ready to Ship!!!!

2011-01-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

Nursery Works is one my favorite nursery lines, with their stylish seating, American collection and sleep well mattresses. It's so simple to choose Nursery Works because they are an Eco Conscious company. Just a few facts:

They've never had a recall and plan on keeping it that way
Paint is super safe that is used on the furniture
Going above and beyond the CPSC regulations and standards
Never settling for good enough, but always settling for the best of the best
Obsessed over quality-you have the assurance of knowing that your nursery by Nursery Works is safe with their Quality Assurance team
All about the little details proving success and named for one of the top 100 Fastest growing companies in Los Angeles for 2009

Nursery Works provides modern style and clean finishes.Rockers and Perches are in stock and selling fast so place your order today at Vanny Bean. The Sleepytime Rocker is extra comfy and spacious and is now offered in our favorite Rosette and Delft colors. Shop the new lower rocker prices and have your self a sleepful night...

Decorate your Nursery in Style for 2011!

Cheers at Vanny Bean

Modern Baby Journals for Newborns

2010-12-19T10:58:00.000-08:00

Vanny Bean just added a wonderful modern baby journal line called Two Giggles. Two Giggles was invented by a mother of two looking for a book that well let's face it, wasn't so bland, boring, and uneventful. A book that captured the moments and essence of children with a bit more uniqueness.Two Giggles motto is Children's Beauty, Innocence, Humor, Laughter, Smiles, Frankness, Time. They all disappear so fast. So why not make a memory that you can record for a lifetime.

Two Giggles was recently featured in Pregnancy and Newborn in the "What's Hot Now" section for great design, inside and out! Recorded to be a super hip memory book that is a perfect place to jot down moment you want to remember forever.

Let Two Giggles be your Modern Baby Journal.

Spending Christmas with Jesus this Year

2010-12-06T20:08:00.000-08:00

Holiday Cheer

The time is near, you can almost smell it in the air. Signs of people hustling around and making lists checking them twice, and trying to find out who’s naughty and nice. Baking cookies, hot chocolate, and decorating the tree are just a few things that come to my mind. Each year, I take out the wooden manger and there’s one ornament every year that has my heart. It’s always at the bottom of the box and I always tend to forget it’s there until I open the box. It’s the Christmas from Heaven ornament. I pull it out and read the message:

Merry Christmas from Heaven

”I still hear the songs I still see the lights

I still feel your love on cold wintery nights
I still share your hopes and all of your cares

I'll even remind you to please say your prayers

I just wanted to tell you you still make me proud

You stand head and shoulders above all the crowd

Keep trying each moment to stay in His grace

I came here before you to help set your place

You don't have to be perfect all of the time

He forgives you the slip If you continue the climb

To my family and friends please be thankful today

I'm still close beside you in a new special way

I love you all dearly now don't shed a tear

Cause I'm spending my Christmas with Jesus this year”

It's a suttle reminder to make me think about the person I am today and how I became this person.

The holidays are a time of joy, love and celebration. Honor those you love by hanging a special ornament that shows your love. The holidays are a time of celebration for every religion and every belief. Show your loved ones and family how much they mean to you, even in the smallest of ways!

Many Blessings upon you and your family this holiday season,

Love Vanny Bean

Holiday Gift Ideas

2010-12-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

What an exciting year at Vanny Bean, we thought we would kick off a list of our favorite gift items of the Season. As you know shopping for someone special can be difficult, whether it's your own child or someone elses. We have put together our top 10 list for you to make shopping a little easier for that special baby in your life:

1. Organic Edible Finger Paint- A seasons must to decorate the halls, the walls, and anything else your little one's heart desires. All natural, organic, and edible in case of the ugh oh times! Have fun and rock out with our Wee Can Too paints.

2. Heirloom Teether Set- These set of 3's are all natural wooden teethers for your baby. Rock Love Peace is one of our favorite brands ready to change the world one mind at a time, what better way then to start with the young!

3. Organic Baby Shampoo Gift Set- Sum Bo Shine has it goin on with this Baby Shampoo, Baby Oil, and Baby Lotion that are all organic goodness meant to rehydrate and refresh your baby's sensitive skin.

4. Bella Baby Sling- Try one of our all natural slings for the hard to shop for best friend on your list. We could all use an extra hand or two as mama's.

5. Tummy Tubs- Probably one of the coolest inventions in bathing your baby to date, the Tummy Tub acts like your child is still in the womb. This easy to use bathing invention is sure to be something they probably don't have yet!

6. Hooded Towels- Oh baby it's cold outside, so wrap that baby up in Cotton Monkeys extra large organic towels.

7. Polar Bear Rocker- All aboard the Santa Express with this sleek Polar Bear Rocker, lets rock away to this natural oak rocker that will be just in the nick of time.

8. Change a Starter Kit- This one isn't exactly for babies, but for any friend or family member that cares about the environment, the Change a Starter Kit is a fun way to share the giving of the season!

9. Modern Baby Journal- Two Giggles presents an all Modern Baby Journal that is sure to have you writing away precious moments in no time.

10. Nursery Works Rocker- Oh Mama, it's time to Rock the Night Away...The fabulous Nursery Works Rockers are modern, comfortable, and an item on any new mothers wish list for a bonding experience. Made to the industries highest standards, this rocker is built to last.

Nursery in Nursery Works Style

2010-11-21T21:25:00.000-08:00

Vanny Bean has a keen eye in modern furniture and is proud to carry Nursery Works as a top designer in modern furniture for your nursery. Nursery Works provides you with handcrafted, contemporary furniture for comfortable living. Built on bridging modernism and elegant style with classic looks is what Nursery Works is founded on.

Looking for a comfortable rocker, you'll fall in love with the Empire Rocker with it's classic look. Feeling a little sleepy, take your nap on the Sleepytime Rocker and drift off to sweet dreams. Do you read a lot of stories, you'll love our extra wide seated Storytime Rocker.

Best of all, Nursery Works uses renewable materials, low VOC finishes, and enhances safe products with fresh modern day style.

Email us at customerservice@vannybean.com to secure your rocker today!

Two Giggles...Modern Baby Journals

2010-10-31T20:56:00.000-07:00

Vanny Bean introduces their collection of Two Giggles, the all modern baby journal that is a step above your average journal. Two giggles was recently featured in Pregnancy and Newborns as one of the greatest new designs in baby journals and albums.

The collection is made up of Puppy Dog Tails, Sunshine and Pigtails, and The Story of Me made up of Pregnancy, birth to age five and developmental milestones in your babies life. These journals incorporate 150 pages of journal prompts recording everything from height to favorite story and birthday celebrations.

The Small Talk collection offers three different colored albums made with renewable energy and recycled fibers. Two Giggles is a company that cares about the earth and the people who live in it.

Welcome to our Vanny Bean Family Two Giggles! Our products will be up this week. Email us at customerservice@vannybean.com to order in advance.

As Always As Friends,
Vanny Bean

Organic Painting for the Holidays

2010-10-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

We've certainly been busy at Vanny Bean over the past couple of weeks! I realize that we talk about the Wee Can Too Organic Finger paints quite a bit, however if you haven't tried these all natural, organic, eco friendly finger paints for babies, toddlers, and young school age children, THEY REALLY ROCK!

What a fun idea to use them for holiday painting ideas...Did we mention that the orange color is made from real pumpkin. Don't miss out on a Halloween painting season for your little pumpkin. Christmas is just around the corner, save them as a gift and use the green and pink/red to decorate the tree. Did we mention they are easy to clean too!

At Vanny Bean we love this time of year and hope you do too! Cheers and happy harvest season to all of you...
As Always, As Friends

Your Friends at Vanny Bean

Periwinkle Bloom On SALE!!!

2010-10-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

One of Vanny Bean's favorite designers, Tyler Stalling has decided to focus her time and efforts more on her growing family. Tyler is a children's designer from the Midwest with tailored art set in style from recycled fabrics made in Saint Louis by handcrafted artists.Periwinkle Bloom is on SALE:

http://www.vannybean.com/category_123/Periwinkle-Bloom.htm

As Always As Friends,

Vanny Bean

The Low Down on Slingin It with your Baby

2010-09-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

The Low Down on Slingin It with your Little One

The choices can be overwhelming and deciding wether or not to carry your baby or wrap your baby in a sling is your decision ultimately, but we wanted to give some sage advise on how a sling can help you out in your day to day life and routine.

•Vanny Bean has found some great advantages to carrying your baby by sling:

•It's convenient and easy. You can breastfeed privately in a sling while working, getting things done around the house, shopping or eating in a restaurant. (Please do not travel down the stairs in your sling with your baby). If you have a baby who wants to be held all the time, this is an easy way to meet her needs while doing other things. Think of having an extra hand that is free to move around, talk on the phone, type, or relax with your baby.

•It helps moms care for older siblings. Carrying your baby in a sling can give you the mobility to care for older children while being close to baby.

•It helps some babies to breastfeed better because of the closeness. Some babies, particularly those who are tense or tend to arch their backs, breastfeed better while moving. Also, babies who are slow to gain weight (for no apparent reason) have been known to gain better if carried in a sling for several hours a day, since proximity to mom encourages babies to eat more frequently.

•It can enhance learning. Carried babies have enhanced visual and auditory alertness, and increased "quiet alertness" times. Carrying a baby promotes cognitive development and speech development, since babies are exposed to experiences and conversations right out of the womb.

•Carried babies are involved in their parents' world. They participate in life, rather than see it as a spectator.

•Carrying your baby promotes bonding and enhances parents' feelings of competence. A higher frequency of feeding and touching stimulates mothering hormones, and frequent carrying encourages and speeds the development of a mutual reading of each other's cues.

Finding a sling that is right for you

There are many types of baby carriers. These include adjustable slings with rings (these come padded or unpadded), pouch slings that are not adjustable,modern, traditional, and wrap arounds. No wonder the confusion when looking for a sling that is right for you and your baby!
Look at photos of the different types, and, if possible, try on several different types, brands and sizes of baby carrier to see which suits you best.

How do I choose the sling that is right for me?

One of our favorite slings is Karma Baby. Karma Baby is a hip fun and modern sling that is durable for your baby and is an easy convenient wrap around sling. With many choices to choose from like organic, water, patterned, and solid you will find what you are looking for with Karma Baby.

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

Momma Drama Reviews Organic Edible Wee Can Too Paints

2010-09-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

Oh how we love Momma Drama by Lara and her great reviews, she just reviewed our Wee Can Too Organic Edible Paints with fantastic reviews, check it out:

http://blogginmommadrama.blogspot.com/2010/09/vanny-bean-organic-edible-paint-review.html

As Always, As Friends

Vanny Bean

Nursery Works Furniture On Sale!!!!

2010-09-16T21:32:00.000-07:00

Nursery Works has drastically lowered sale prices on the vale headboard in twin size, we will process your order as fast as possible but inventories are minimal...

Check out our gorgeous collection that will be in for October of the Sleepytime Rocker, Storytime Rocker, and Empire Rocker place your order now before we run out of them!

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

Have your paint and eat it too!

2010-09-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

Sarid and I instantly became friends both outgoing, lively, passionate, and full of ideas. From the moment we spoke on the phone, I had so many ideas for her on how to market the business. Vanny Bean has been carrying Wee Can Too paints on the site since the beginning. The eco friendly organic all natural paints are A-Mazing to say the least. They are completely safe for your kids and edible in case they decide to put their little hands into their mouth, which has been known to happen while fingerpainting.

I loved the idea so much that we decided to partner with Sarid in her love affair and passion with the paints.As parents, as business partners, and as friends we are in Wee Can Too together! Whenever you have a passion in life, go for it and so we did. Wee Can Too is on it's way as our little project turning into a big one in big ways.

Already capturing the east coast market, we are moving to the Midwest with our organic paints making baby, toddler, and children painting fun again! Wee Can Too is all the rage with mommy bloggers, autistic children for art therapy, babies, toddlers, and will be coming to art mueseums soon!

Look for our Organic Bath Balls coming very soon!

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

First Day of School

2010-08-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

So it's been almost a week now and we are adjusting to the 'school mode' and the new routine of kindergarten, like I'm sure many of you are. A couple weeks ago, I wrote about the first day of school and really had some wonders about how I would handle this new found journey of kindergarten. Let's just say this day was really a great day for us, the angels were in full force on our side.

The morning started getting everything in order to make the day perfect, the drive was normal traffic and we were on our way to a new school. Believe me, we do this everyday but this day was different. It was off to bigger and better and the unknown and all the trials that come along with meeting the teacher, school supplies, to do lists, registration and the list goes on. Who knew all of this to enter school? One would think you were applying to live in a different country, not Kindergarten. Seriously, I really don't remember all this paperwork to be accepted into college. Really I truly mean that friends. I wonder if I was in the office at least 3 times filling out all the necessaries.

Okay okay onto our morning, so we walked in and meet the new teacher and hurried to put the pack pack away, gave our hugs and walked out of the classroom. There's no turning back right? Well I certainly turned back and kept watching to make sure everything was in order. As I proceed to leave and turn towards the outer door, hot tears pour down my face. It was a feeling of emotion from the bottom of your stomach to the top and a rush of emotion came from deep inside my heart. It was a moment that I knew reality set in. Growing up, getting bigger, learning more and more everyday and applying the knowledge in this discovery of a world. I proceeded to work, however I knew I needed to go to the support of other mothers for a bagel breakfast. Something inside my heart needed to be there amongst others who were going through this same experience. I have to say, what a wonderful group of mothers who were also excited, thankful, and nervous about their children growing up.

It was almost time for school to get out, I knew I needed to race back and go through the ' Mr. Mom' school line of how in the heck do you get through the parking lot without running into other cars or going the wrong way! We made it, we did it no problem but the fear of 'You're doing it wrong' came to mind from the movie more than a few times. Working in the afternoon with all the Fall/Holiday 2010 lineup, needed a well deserved pizza break.

We stopped in the city along a little pizza shop that is well frequented by anyone local for some refreshments. To our surprise, it was closing time...So we were invited in to make our own pizza. Talk about so much fun and old charm in the middle of new...We couldn't have loved it more.

The weeks since gone and went by and we will always cherish this memory of the first day of school. A day when I certainly had a handful of guardian angels watching over us...

Do you remember your first day of school? Share with us...

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

Periwinkle Bloom 'A recycled lifestyle for kids'.

2010-08-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Can I just say from a personal eye that I really love this designer, Periwinkle Bloom. Periwinkle's designer is from the Midwest and has made her dream come true when overseas manufacturing is the norm, Tyler has stayed local with her designs and manufacturing in the United States and home sewn. Offering organic children's garments, created in small editions with the less is more attitude. Simple silhouettes in elegance and

Periwinklebloom offers 100% organic cotton children’s garments, homegrown and hand-sewn in the U.S., natural aspects of design for timeless appeal.

Periwinkle Bloom uses reclaimed vintage fabric to enhance Eco friendly living contributing to thoughtful design while embracing the idea of life and garments recycled for an earth that gives back to mother nature.

You will absolutely love the natural colors, generous fit for growing, and lush textures with this line.

Take the time to browse,

As Always, As Friends

Vanny Bean

Organic Play for Kids

2010-08-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

P'kolino Brand is playfully fun and functional for kids improving play at home time. P'kolino meets and exceeds all United States and Canada safety standards while offering a safe, nontoxic, and fun time play for kids. Whether you are drawing, painting, or just enjoy lounging around, this brand has it all and Vanny Bean is proud to feature this recognizable and award winning brand in our company.

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

The Starting of Kindergarten

2010-08-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

My little one will be starting kindergarten this Fall...I have such mixed feelings about it. On one hand, all my friends say you will cry like a baby and on the other hand I feel like she's been doing the kindergarten thing already for the past two years since she's in school all day...

Is it really that different than now or is it such a powerful memorable day that brings on these strong emotions and sense of loss as your little one is growing up? I am not sure what to think about all this but I have my homework in front of me now. . . more packets to fill out as if the pile an inch thick at registration wasn't enough. Not to mention, I still need to find a birth certificate floating around somewhere...Birth certificates are funny in that way, like proof that you made it into this world by a signed doctor, like that's proof.

I have the school supply list and need to do all the back to school shopping and then we are officially in business...Okay okay maybe I'm in a little bit of denial wondering if it's all happening this soon but it will soon be here and I just don't know what to think of it all. I'm sure I'm like every mamma out there on their child's first day, you try to be so tough and grounded but I'm almost positive there will be tears and when there is, I may need to write another blog about just how emotional this experience is of the first day...

I can still remember mine and have the picture of the first day of school...Powerful memories! Make sure to take a picture to all the mom's or caretakers of the world out there.

Reduse, Reuse, Rock on!!!!!

Rock Love Peace

2010-08-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

What does Rock Love Peace mean to you...Do it bring you back to the Free to Be Days, do you think hippie, flower power, or sweet rock and roll? For the inventors of this modern hip company called Rock Love Peace it means inventing eco friendly gifts that educate, modivate, and activate positive change one mind at a time...That's right baby!

Like this statement to the world of "Be the change you wish to see in the World" tote its a large tote that is sure to work as a gym bag, grocery bag, overnight bag, or diaper bag.

You'll also love the natural teethers by Rock Love Peace, these wooden teethers are sure to be a hit for your teething little one or work great as a gift. Heart, Peace, and Stars for all you star strucked peace lovin mamas.

The Reduce Reuse Rock On totes are a great shopping bag or great for any Summer or Fall purse...

With Stars like Justin Timberlake, Tyra Banks, Ellen Degeneres, Hilary Swank, and Eva Longoria receiving these amazing eco friendly gift ideas, you won't wonder why you bought such a hip fun and earth friendly line. So Rock Love Peace all you crazy hip mama's.

Organic Reusable Nursing Pads

2010-07-28T21:38:00.000-07:00

Ladies, there's a solution to your boring, white plain jane disposable nursing pads. Are you looking for a washable reusable nursing pad. Think about how many sets of nursing pads you go through a day...Especially in the first few months of your newborns life. It's awful right? Not only are you changing your babies diapers and throwing them away if you don't use cloth diapers, but you are also more than likely throwing away your nursing pads. Double damage on the environment.

We realize moms still want to stay stylish or feel like they identify in their own ways. Posh Pads has a solution, it's an organic reusable washable and eco friendly nursing pad that will liven up your day and let you pick the mood that your in. From Hot Mama, Sleepless Nights, Mardi Gras, and Hidden Treasures these reusable nursing pads will have you focusing on your babies next eating time rather than your next leak time. Pick your style, pick your trend, and be the mom you were born to be!

As Always, As Friends

Vanny Bean

My Sunshine-Wall Decal

2010-07-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

Vanny Bean has a new edition to the family for wall decals. You'll love our wall art from Wall Candy Art with this Sunshine wall decal that is easily detachable it will have you singing! Who wouldn't want this upbeat wall art that will have you singing You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when sky's are gray. Your sky's or at least your room will never be gray again with this Sunshine Wall Art.

Fall/Winter 2010-2011 Fashion Preview for Kids

2010-07-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

Chloé Children’s Wear: Fall-Winter 2010/2011 Fashion Preview

Organic Toddler Shoes

2010-07-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

What a crazy summer already...which brings me to one of my favorite topics, shoes...

Can we tell you how much we love little baby shoes at Vanny Bean, almost more than we love the high heels in our closet! Our shoes are super soft, flexible, soft soled for your baby to move, stain resistant, animal free, and are perfect for your little ones growing feet! These little shoes work great for the outdoors including grass and mulch. Better yet, they are made in the USA and eco friendly for your little souls soles.

At Vanny Bean we have 3 types of Organic Toddler Shoes to choose from: Crawling, Walking, or Running. We love them and you will too! We are happy to be a proud supporter of Organic shoes for your tots!

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

Organic Bathing for your Baby

2010-07-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

Your new little bundle of joy is home from the hospital and you're wondering, well my baby doesn't get dirty yet...Should I give baby a bath everyday? That question is up to you, if your new baby is uncomfortable with being washed everyday, try a sponge bath. Start by using a soft sponge and washing your babies face with cooled water, and never use any kind of soap near your babies eyes. Try an organic shampoo and body wash such as Sumboshine. Head and shoulders knees and toes, be sure to wash all around for baby. Be sure to wash under their folds of skin, behind their ears, and especially underneath their neck since formula or milk can drip under the chin.

Your child's nose and ears are self cleaning so if you see a bit of wax or mucus gently take it away from your baby areas. Remove your babies diaper and gently clean the bottom while removing any soil. You can apply an organic baby ointment to help prevent rashes from diapers. Look for ointments that have vitamin E and Chamomile for soft skin.

When your baby is bigger, we recommend using a Tummy Tub. Tummy Tubs are gaining popularity in the United States, the tummy tub helps to ensure that your child is in the fetal position with warm water just like in the womb. Never leave your child unattended in water, not even for a second. In the first few weeks after birth while using the Tummy Tub you will want to ensure that your child has enough water to the lower shoulders in the Tummy Tub, you will need to support your child while they are in the tub and help hold their neck up for them. Use luke warm water to bathe your baby.

To keep your baby's hair soft and smooth, use naturally pure baby oil for your child's scalp and lightly on the body for smooth skin. The oil will help with flakes in your child's hair and will help with 'craddle cap.' When drying your baby try an organic towel such as Cotton Monkey for drying. An organic towel will help prevent exposure to harsh chemicals and help to prevent rashes and breakouts compared to using a non organic towel to dry your baby.

A baby's nails grow fast and so many times babies reach for their faces and scratch themselves easily. Continually cut your babies nails short to keep from scratching. Be careful when cutting the babies nails and use very dull nail scissors or baby clippers with rounded edges. Don't cut too close to the babies skin...
Now onto dressing your little one for the day. Our organic children's clothing will have you drooling over all the options to dress for the day.

As Always, As Firends

Your Friends at Vanny Bean

Nursery Tips for putting together your child's Nursery

2010-06-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Are you a new Mommy or perhaps a Mommy to be and are perplexed by what furniture to put in your new baby's nursery? Maybe you are a grandparent trying to help your children find the perfect decorations for the nursery...We have some ideas to help you out with designing the modern nursery room for the newest addition to the family.

At Vanny Bean Organics we carry many different organic nursery furniture options to fit your needs. Start by looking for your larger items and decide what is important to you. There are many choices and options when it comes to nursery furniture. Knowing the difference between non-toxic organic furniture pieces and regular nursery furniture can help you make the decisions that are right for you.

We suggest looking for a bassinet/crib first. During the first few weeks bringing your newborn home from the hospital is a hard transition and a bassinet maybe a better fit for your little one so that it can be transportable and easy to use. Vanny Bean recommends the Argington BAM Bassinet for all your crib, bassinet, and bedding needs. The Argington brand is fused with a love affair of Eco friendly green, art, and architecture. Each furniture piece is taken into careful consideration to provide an all natural green furniture piece to enjoy for generations to come.

The BAM Collection can be converted into a bassinet, crib, and toddler bed all for one low price considering the hip 3 in 1 combo and comes in 3 different colors. Another crib that we are found of is the Arial crib by Nursery Works which provides a crib and toddler bed conversion when the conversion kit is purchased. The sleek modern lines will have you falling in love with patterns all over again.

Pamper yourself with a plush rocking chair and Ottoman its an added perk that is so worth it! You will cherished story times, napping, and one on one time. Look for chairs that are covered with organic or natural fibers such as Nursery Works rockers, if you have a wooden rocker our modern perches will be a great addition to your collection.

For some new parents a nursery changer is a must. I survived without one, but wished that I had one during the first year. At Vanny Bean we have a variety of diaper changers to choose from. Some of our top favorites including the Sahara by Argington, Moderne changer by Netto Collection. Vanny Bean has the top of the line diaper changers for every need.

Finding for a modern dresser can be hard to do but Vanny Bean has many options to choose from for organic Eco friendly nursery furniture. You'll love our BAM wardrobe for dressers, it is the ultimate in organization for your baby. Our Sahara dresser is an inexpensive alternative to the BAM wardrobe and provides lots of storage for your little one.

Looking for the essentials is key to stocking your nursery. You will need diapers we highly recommend gbaby diapers they are Eco friendly and flush able, how cool is that! You will also need a hip diaper bag to stock all those diapers, bottles, ointments, re usable nursing pads, check out our unique diaper bags by Rock Love Peace designed to meet your diaper bag needs.

If you live in an apartment or don't want to paint designs onto your walls these removable wall decals add a safe alternative to toxic paints for your nursery room.

We hope that this gives you direction and ideas on where to take your nursery. Remember, you are the inventor and can take the designs to their wildest imaginations with core key nursery pieces.

As Always, As Friends

Vanny Bean

Should you wash your childrens clothing when purchased?

2010-06-24T19:38:00.001-07:00

Imagine your new baby that comes home from the hospital, how sweet, precious and such innocense. So the question comes about in the 'nesting period' of should you wash baby and children's clothes before wearing them?

Many people go back and forth debating about wether children's clothes should be washed before wear. With an experienced career in apparel production and working for a childrens apparel company, I can say that washing your child's clothing is a must. Many children's products are not washed in the factories which means in the cut, make and sew process hundreds of people are touching the garments as the apparel industry is highly labor intensive. During the process, the fabric is normally bathed but not necessarily washed in the end process.

So the question becomes again Should You Wash Your Babies Clothing before wearing? In our opinion and expertise, yes...There are many toxic chemicals found in your 'norm' baby clothes unless you look for organic clothing. The harsh chemicals can lead to allergies and rashes on your new babies skin.

Vanny Bean Baby Organics works to provide you with organic baby clothing that is hip, trendy, and stylish for your newborn baby. With brands like Sama Baby, Rattle Me, and Modern Me, we have a wide variety of organic childrens clothing to choose from.

As Always, As Friends,

Vanny Bean

And the Story Begins...Organic Baby Paints

2010-06-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

I have asked my dear friend Sarid to do a blog guest appearance as she is the CEO and found of Wee Can Too. Wee Can Too is an all natural, non toxic, ecofriendly, organic, and did we mention edible paint for your toddlers and babies. Sarid is a stay at home momma who has a passion for her children and organics. She has a steadfast growing love of just how fun and exciting the organic world can be and has a growing paint business that is faster growing than her hands can go....While stopping off at a local store to deliver her organic baby paints, the store owner gave Sarid the upmost of compliments that I wanted to share with all of you, because sistas it's not just that these paints are organic and non toxic for your little hands running around, they are so much more and I just want to share it with you... Sarid writes:

As I made a routine delivery to one of our local stores, I was blown away by a wonderful story:

A mother of an autistic 4 year-old girl told the owner that she was an avid fan of our organic edible paints (always so great to hear). She also said that her daughter was now potty trained and she felt that the artistic therapy of the paints was in result of that.

If this is so, (goosebumps) I have already obtained my goals here with these paints!

I am holding my darling second child (11 months old) on my lap as I type one-handed right now. I feel blesssed everyday with my family and my life. To have a hand in this type of growth only makes me more appreciative of this amazing world and my position in it.

To that momma who shared her story, I say thank you. What a compliment and to think that children are able to focus from the tactile textures in the paint is amazing and I feel very blessed to hear the story and to found such a wonderful, successful, and growing company that helps others.
With pure love and admiration...
Sarid

Finding a hobby you really enjoy...

2010-06-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

Hobbies are those great outlets that keep every mother sane. Finding a hobby that is healthy and makes you happy can sometimes be a challenge but if you are able to give yourself at least some free time in the day to do something you enjoy, your stress level will reduce itself and your joy will increase. Some hobbies are meant to do with the children too and can also be a creative outlet for them too.

If you love to excercise but can't seem to find the time and have little ones, use a running stroller and get out and go! Take the dog for a walk with the kids, even the little things can make a big difference in joy and stress levels. Do a workout video a few times in the morning before the kids are up....It will have you pumped for the whole day. Try a workout class at the gym where there is daycare included. If your children are old enough, try a bike ride in the evening, helmets included of course.

Take the photography class you've been meaning to take, or what about the paint class you've been looking at for the past year? Now is the time while summer is hear!

If you love to read, start a neighborhood book club. Why find the books that Oprah is recommending, why not rely on your friends and yourself to see what you are interested in studying together and take the challenge. You are sure to feed off each others minds.

Get out there and go, What are you waiting for?

Summer with the Kiddos

2010-05-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Summer has always been my favorite time of year, probably because it takes me back to my childhood. How do you make the most of your summer when it already feels like it's over before it's begun? I do that quite frequently, I will go through all the 'To do's' in my head and psych myself out and before I know it I have my summer done before it's begun. This summer I have vowed not to do that, I am going to take summer one day at a time and relax. That seems to be quite a challenge with this working career mom by day and business by night, but hear me out all you moms that are in the same position.

When you get the extra time to spend with the kids, go for a walk or a bikeride. If you are a runner, run by them while they are ridding their bikes or take the dog for a walk once you get home from work. It will make you more refreshed and focused and you will be glad you did.

I normally don't get to the pool much, but we love it! And why not, it's entertainment for the kids all day and is inexpensive. We have vowed to hit the pool twice a week this summer to make the most of the summer. One week night and one weekend day....even if it's a partial day.

Another great idea is going to the farmers market this summer, especially if you don't have your own garden. It supports local farmers in your area rather than going to the grocery store and giving to a corporation and it's a chance to get to know other local people who are producing your food and the taste is so much better since it's fresh to the table!

Another idea that will leave a lasting memory for your kids is to hit a waterpark or a baseball game this summer and make sure you apply sunscreen. Kids love observing and being in the action and both are activities where you dont need to constantly tell your kids to 'be quite' or 'hush'.

Last but not least, most theatres now are doing a kids movie day at really great discounts where you bring your kids into see a movie that's already hit the DVD but you want the sound effects of the big screen. Or movies in the park for summer are always a great hit, bring your popcorn and blanket for a night in the park.

We have vowed to make it a Summer not to forget before it's started.

Love your friends at www.vannybean.com

Baby Tummy Tubs

2010-05-30T00:21:00.000-07:00

Check out our latest edition of Tummy Tubs:
http://www.vannybean.com/item_1513/The-Original-Tummy-Tub.htm

The Original Tummy Tub
The New Concept in Bathing Babies! The benefits of the TummyTub are acknowledged in maternity hospitals and homes throughout Europe. Endorsed by doctors, midwives and health visitors. TummyTub was designed in the Netherlands by caregivers to ease the transition from the comfort of the mother's womb. Babies naturally adopt the fetal position and it is amazing to see how quickly they calm and relax.

Why use the TummyTub?

For nine months your baby feels safe, comfortable and secure in the womb. After birth everything changes for your baby, who suddenly experiences bright lights, new sights and sounds, hunger, gravity and an ever-changing world. The TummyTub has been developed in cooperation with physicians, midwives and nursery nurses, to ease the transition from the secure environment of the womb to the new world. The unique womb shape helps your baby to relax, and become calm in the familiar fetal position.

How much water should I use?
You decide on how much water you need to bath your baby. The water level markings on the tub are intended only as a guide, as not every baby is the same size. However, in the first few weeks after birth it is important that there is sufficient water to cover your baby's shoulders. This will ensure your baby does not get cold.

How do I hold my baby?
In the "sitting" position the rounded shape of the TummyTub helps to support your baby. You only need to support your baby's head under the chin. The advantage is that you always have one free hand to wash and comfort your baby. In the "floating" position you have one hand under your baby's chin, the other at the back of the head or you can place both your hands under your baby's armpits.

Is it safe?
Yes! The tummy tub is perfectly safe. It has the TUV German & the UK British Standards safety certifications. It has been designed in such a way that the water creates the stability. It is important to remember that you should never leave your baby unattended while in the TummyTub. You must always be there to give support and reassurance. ASTM (USA), TUV (Germany) and BSI (England) tested and approved. The TummyTub is permitted to carry the seal GS (Proven Safety).

The low down on eco friendly cottons...people!

2010-05-24T21:18:00.001-07:00

Adapted from Your Naturally Healthy Home: Stylish, Safe, Simple, by Alan Berman.

Organic Cotton Vs. Traditional Cotton? Ordinary cotton is treated with a variety of chemicals as it goes through the processes from plant to fabric, and residues remain even after washing. This interesting and informative chart, found in Your Naturally Healthy Home, follows the myriad of traditional cotton chemical treatments involved in cotton cultivation, harvesting, scouring, dyeing, printing, and finishing, and compares them to the methods of processing organic cotton.

Cultivation
*Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilizers that may be highly toxic and cause environmental problems.
Global Consequences: Chemicals cause decline in soil fertility and erosion; aerial spraying affects other crops; high water use and water supplies polluted.
Health Consequences: Traces of chemicals remain and are potentially carcinogenic.

*Organic Cotton
Organic matter fertilizes soil and renews soil productivity; less water used.

Harvesting
* Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Herbicides used to defoliate and make picking easier.
Global Consequences: Chemicals pollute ground and rivers; harvesting machinery compacts the ground and reduces soil productivity.
Health Consequences: Traces of chemicals remain and are potentially carcinogenic.

* Organic Cotton
Hand picked (no defoliation, machinery, or chemicals); hand picking means less waste.

Scouring, Washing, and Bleaching
* Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Chlorine (see xxx on care2), hydrogen peroxide, APEO (alkylphenoloxylate, a hormone disrupter), EDTA (ethylenediamine tetra-acetate; binds with heavy metals in rivers and streams and activates them), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that react with sunlight to form ground-level ozone.
Global Consequences: Synthetic disinfectants are slow to biodegrade; chlorine emissions pollute atmosphere.
Health Consequences: Traces of chemicals are carcinogenic and can affect the nervous system.

* Organic Cotton
Natural spinning oils biodegrade easily; natural processing such as potato starch used; no chlorine used.

Yarn Dyeing
* Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Compounds of iron, tin, potassium, and VOCs.
Global Consequences: Large quantities of water used for washing out dyes.
Health Consequences: Water polluted by heavy metals.

* Organic Cotton
Natural vegetable dyes or low-impact synthetic dyes; or cotton is color grown.

Printing
* Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Solvent-based inks containing heavy metals, benzene, and organochlorides.
Global Consequences: Waste water is polluted with heavy metals; emissions form harmful ozone.
Health Consequences: Toxic residues cause problems of the central nervous system, respiratory system, and skin, as well as head-aches, dizziness, and eye irritations.

* Organic Cotton
Natural vegetable and mineral inks and binders are used.

Finishing (easycare, stain resistance, fireproofing, mothproofing, softening, deodorizing, anti-static, and mercerizing treatments)
* Traditional Cotton
Chemicals Used: Formaldehyde, caustic soda, sulfuric acid, bromines, urea resins, sulfonamides, halogens, and bromines.
Global Consequences: Waste water has a high acid content; emissions to atmosphere.
Health Consequences: Chemical traces on the fabric can cause burning eyes, nose, and throat, as well as difficulties with sleep, concentration, and memory. Can increase susceptibility to cancer; emissions of chemicals from fabric increase with temperature.

* Organic Cotton
No enhancement fishes used.

Transportation
* Traditional Cotton
In addition to the above, there are environmental consequences of transporting huge quantities of chemicals from the manufacturing plant to the place of cultivation, as well as the additional journeys involved for all stages of cotton production, from the raw material to place of manufacture, finishing, and then to distributor and user.

Win a $20.00 Gift Certificate at Vanny Bean

2010-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

Enter to Win a $20.00 Gift Certificate at a Bittersweet Existence by posting the link to your browser:

http://reviews.abittersweetexistence.com/?p=1804

Organic Edible Baby Paints

2010-05-02T16:53:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when you pick your children up from school they seem to love to get down and dirty messy...at least mine do. It seems as if they eat the dirt and sand from ground. I often wonder how they get so messy. Have you thought of putting that creative carefree talent to work? Yes, work...painting is a great way to work your childs carefree imagination and costs so little, not to mention memories that last a lifetime on paper.

Painting is a process of learning and mastering and they take wonderful pride in their work. It teaches them to think outside the box and turn their thoughts and ideas into a masterpiece. Who knows, you could be training the next Picasso.

Vanny Bean carries a wonderful product by Wee Can Too paint, the neat thing about it is it is organic and edible...Edible and Organic? Too good to be true? Not for our babies...Created by a stay at home mom who wanted options for her children and didnt see anything on the market, the dream became a reality. The paints are easy, edible, organic and will ensure that your child is safe while painting and working on what's really important, their masterpiece.
http://www.vannybean.com/item_1332/Organic-Edible-Baby-Paints-by-Wee-Can-Too.htm

In order to get started you will need a workable surface (covered) organic edible paints by Wee Can Too, paintbrush, soap to clean up the paint afterwards, and an apron. Children should always be supervised when painting.

ROCK LOVE PEACE

2010-04-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day, Peace Love and Goodwill on Earth! Vanny Bean truly loves ROCK LOVE PEACE, an eco friendly brand with natural teethers, organic fair trade onesies, and cute totes that you can tote around town! They are so darn cute and we mean cute...Vanny Bean loves supporting companies that are great to work with and we believe in ROCK LOVE PEACE, celebrate Earth Day with an organic onesie for your little one and isn't 'Be the Change' a perfect starting point for a fresh young mind. Show your bold statement by buying our ROCK LOVE PEACE onesie at Vanny Bean.

http://www.vannybean.com/item_1416/Organic-Fair-Trade-Onsies.htm

Organic cotton is grown without pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, chemical fertilizers or any other chemicals. By making the socially conscious choice to buy fair trade products, you become a part of a movement; transforming globalization into a practice that benefits all people.

Be the change!
In black, for the stylish baby in your life!

Anniversary Ideas for the lady of your life....

2010-04-17T21:20:00.000-07:00

*Anniversary Ideas for Her*

Let's face facts, fellas. There is absolutely no avoiding the fact that
she knows your anniversary is coming up. Even if your anniversary was
just yesterday, and you have 364 days left to prepare for the next
one... she is well aware that it is coming up. And the best odds would
say that your anniversary did not just happen... unless maybe you happen
to be looking at this from your smart phone in the car (where you are
now sleeping). There are times when a man must take charge in life...Sweep your woman off her feet and romance her like never before.
and times when he must nod his head solemnly, and accept that discretion
is the better part of valor. Just never say, "Yes, dear." Your
anniversary is foremost among the latter type of times, and you are
going to need to get her a gift. And no matter what the tradition says
about the first year, paper is NOT an option... at least, not one that
will likely result in having any subsequent anniversaries. So let's
review a basic list of gifts pretty much guaranteed NOT to find you
spending a few nights on the couch (or having the locks changed on you).

A nice set of flowers. While some people would consider this the cheap
way out... it actually isn't. Considering that most things you buy will
not die within three weeks, and cost substantially less by volume,
flowers are almost a rip off. But women love them, and showing your love
some times means throwing cash down the drain. You can't show her you
love her with savings bonds, guys.

But do not just give her a dozen roses. While that is a classic, be
creative with it. If she's a size 4, give her four each of a few
different colors of roses. Or if she prefers another type of flower,
give her those. If she is NOT a size four, do NOT try the "x number of
each color" trick -- it will back fire hardcore. Also avoid giving her a
rose for every year she's lived -- women don't seem to like being
reminded how venerable they become as they age.

A great piece of jewelry. Let's face it; you can't go wrong with tiny,
shiny things. In that one sense, women are very much like birds -- if
you do not give them small, shiny objects, they are likely to peck your
eyes out. If you can afford it, something from Tiffany always goes over
well. One year I remember receiving my shiny Tiffanys bracelet with the heart that I will always charish and hold dear to my heart.
Other great brands that she will happily show off around the
office are Cartier, Rolex (you high roller, you), and . Attempt to give her
an impostor at your own risk.

Perfume. Women naturally smell nice. And yet, for some strange reason,
they want to cover up their natural scent with some thing completely
different. So go to the perfume counter, state your budget (and don't be
a wimp with the sales people!), and ask what smells good that you can
get within that budget. And if you play it suavely, every time she puts
it on, she will think of you. I highly suggest Coco Channel or Romance by Ralph Lauren.

Don't forget your anniversary or you might be in the dog house and that is not a fun place to be!~Cheers

Save 10% at Vanny Bean

2010-04-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

Save 10% off at Vanny Bean this month by clicking on the following link: http://www.vannybean.com?code=Groovy 10

Flower and Plants MAKE Fashion

2010-03-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

When people think of plants as they relate to the fashions we humans
adorn ourselves with, the first instinct most of us have it to imagine
floral patterns and such. But of course, what many people may not
realize is that every single thing we wear has plants at some stage of
the process. Seriously, even polyester and other synthetic materials
have petroleum as their raw ingredient... which is oil that is formed
via the compression of marine life, including plants. Of course, cows,
sheep and silk worms give us leather, wool and silk... but cows and
sheep depend on grass, while silk worms simply could not produce without
eating the leaves of the white mulberry tree.

And there was even a fashion show held in Cali, Columbia, in which the
various designers produced clothing items made from plant materials.
These included massive floral head dresses and actual, entire outfits
made from all manner of flowers and plant parts.

And no discussion of literal "grown clothes" would be complete without
mentioning the modern trend of rings that feature actual, live plants as
a part of their designs. These rings are like having a little putting
green right on your finger (or in the case of one designer's work, a
"lawn on your hand" that resembles a set of brass knuckles). And one can
only assume that these rings coordinate very well with flower necklaces,
which also (pardon the pun) are blossoming into popularity. But perhaps
that vision of fashion is a bit too literal.

Anything which is popular can be said to be a kind of fashion. This even
extends as far as out door life and the gardens and lawns we grow. When
you mow your lawn in a patterned design of some sort, you are putting a
"fashionable" spin on something functional. And when you dig up a
section, put down some soil and plant _flower seeds
, you are also expressing your own style
in a way that society considers good and normal.

Of course, like everything else in life, some people can take things far
further than the norm. The notion of "thimble gardens" which could be
grown by any apartment dweller with even the tiniest window was a good
start. And then, I paused momentarily when I caught a glimpse of
furniture, down spouts (as in, from gutters), shoes and even entire
walls that are either covered with, or made entirely out of, the very
same grass which can be seen in a multitude of lawns. But then I finally
stopped and stared when I saw a few other things that some green minded
designers have been coming up with lately.

Apparently, not only can plants be grown that display messages (such as
"I love you"), they can also be grown into photographs. In these photos,
the different grass colors visibly form different enough shades to make
actual images. That was just about enough to convince me that there are
a great many people out there who REALLY love turning plants into
fashion accessories. Love your plants, Love your planet, and Love Yourself....

Bikini Babies...oh and mamas!

2010-03-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

Is Anything New Under the Sun for Pregnant Women?
Shaking off the winter blues by doing some summertime daydreaming? You’re probably not alone. With so many parts of the world having one of the coldest (and longest) winters on record, we in the Northern Hemisphere are all envying the warmer climes of those on the opposite side of the equator. Fortunately, the spring/summer clothing lines have already premiered, and we can look to browse through catalogs and websites, imagining when and where we want to be in that sundress or bathing suit. It gets a little tough, however, to imagine what sort of clothing will look good on you if you’re already bulging in your winter clothes because you’ll be at least six months pregnant by June. Fortunately, there are styles designed just for you.
For most of us, summer conjures up the idea of outdoor activities. We like lying in the sun by the pool or on the edge of the ocean. We enjoy golfing, tennis and bicycling under a big golden sun. There is no reason a mom-to-be can’t take part in any or all of these activities if she takes the proper precautions to prevent sunburn and heat fatigue. Still, what can a pregnant woman wear to the beach or to a picnic beside the pool? For the last couple of summers, we’ve seen fairly “stationary” trends in summer clothing for women. The Capri pants that became a hot fashion commodity for all women a few years back are still “in” and work well with maternity fashions, since they hide some of that thigh fat we inevitably gain. Luckily, long loose, slouchy tees and tops are hot this year, too. That means the average mommy in waiting will be able to buy off the regular rack if she wants. Still, what can she wear to a pool? And to the beach?
Pregnancy and bathing suits used to conjure up a couple of extreme images. The first was that of a woman wearing a ridiculous get-up that covered 80% of her torso and had a skirt, even a ruffle. Ugh! Then we went to the extreme of bikinis, exposing our bulging bellies and, sadly, our unborn kids, to ultraviolet rays that have potentially dangerous side effects. Now, we have styles that have moved to somewhere in between. Today’s maternity bathing suit can be subtle. The tankini (common term for a tank top and bathing suit bottom combo) works well at allowing a pregnant woman to be confident in her appearance and comfortable, too. Several versions of the tankini are available, and often they are made with built-in bras to help bolster breasts that are heavier during pregnancy.
If you are shopping for a maternity swimsuit, you might want to check out the styles by Prego®. Their line of maternity swimwear is just the right mixture of fun and flirty moderated by a bit of good taste. I particularly liked their halter-top tankini and the other styles that make the most of the shoulders and bodice, draped over the tummy. They’ve got plenty of looks to choose from, and lots of competitors, too. This means that a little bit of shopping will surely net the suit that’s just right for you.
The once seemingly impossible search for a comfortable but stylish swimsuit for mothers-to-be is now over. They do exist! So, just remember, even if you’re going to have a baby and will be carrying some very special extra weight around this summer, you can still enjoy the warmer weather in style.
For all you mama's looking for organic swim wear for your little ones, Happy Green Bee offers fun, childish designs for summer swimming...This cute little thang you see in the picture offers hip toddlers a chance to show their cheery stripes for summer fun!!!!! Available in watermelon or butterscotch

http://www.vannybean.com/category_83/Happy-Green-Bee.htm

Blog written by Allison Freed, fashion blogger and editor.

Welcome Spring...

2010-03-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

I'm sure most parents, like myself are ready for Spring and ready to start all the fun activities again like soccer, swimming, going to the park, and taking the dog for a walk. I know we are! Well, it's been an exciting couple of weeks and I have to admit Vanny Bean hasn't been faithfully blogging like we should! That will change with the winter blues behind us and a warm Spring ahead. I wanted to blog or shall I say brag today about our line from Wall Candy Art. Wall Candy Art are sticker decalls to spice up your childrens room and what better time with the 'Spring Cleaning' then to freshen up the kids rooms with fun wall decals that are go green for the environment. Check out Blossom's featured in the picture for Spring time... http://www.vannybean.com/item_1371/Blossoms.htm

Wall Candy Art Apple Chalkboard was featured in Parents Magazine this month and is great for any reminders you think of...Check out our collection of wall arts and go green!

Painting with your Children

2010-02-25T18:53:00.000-08:00

Our Guest Blog is from a fashion blogger/editor named: Allison Freed.

Children are naturally observant. Just imagine how little children learn to speak a whole language from scratch, just by listening. Unlike adults, who need to go to language school and study a language for years, children are able to do speak, read and write almost without any efforts. That’s because they are so observant, and their senses are very sharp. This is a very good time to train children to draw, because they will pick it up quickly, and never forget that very essential skill.Vanny Bean has great colored pencil sets for children learning to draw, pencils are by Pkolino and are made from natural forestry resources and
All P'kolino products are made in the United States by artisans who have been perfecting their trade for generations. P'kolino products meet or exceed U.S. safety standards. http://www.vannybean.com/item_300/Pkolino-Jumbo-Triangular-Color-Pencils.htm

Teach them painting at an early age. You can use our organic paint for this. Don’t worry if your child likes to eat paint as much as to draw with it. Our paint is completely edible and designed to give your child a safe drawing environment. You can let them paint with their fingers if they prefer, or you can let them use a soft brush. Make sure to be around when they use a brush, though, so that it is used for painting alone. It is very hard to make a paint brush edible. Vanny Bean features paint by Wee Can Too and is non toxic and made from natural organic products! http://www.vannybean.com/item_1332/Organic-Edible-Baby-Paints-by-Wee-Can-Too.htm

New Totes from Rock Love Peace

2010-02-06T14:24:00.000-08:00

Oh the totes we will go...Vanny Bean is excited to announce our new 'Be the Change' totes. Fun, unique, hip, trendy designs by Rock Love Peace will have you inspired for change in your family, work, community and through out the world. Be the change you wish to see in the world totes offer a different pattern for everyone!!!

Argington Furniture for tots has made its way to Vanny Bean

2010-02-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

Vanny Bean is excited to announce the new line of Argington eco-friendly, beautiful, modern products to our collection of nursery furniture. Argington embraces the love for art, family, and the world we leave our children. Argington‘s furniture shares a common design aesthetic – clean, simple, and tasteful. Argington believes children are the inspiration for each new design and each piece is crafted to have that personal feel.

The Argington family adheres to green design: a sustainable way to produce furniture in efforts to minimize environmental impact. Every piece we produce is part of a bigger picture so that as your family grows our products continue to support the family‘s aesthetic vision.

We are thrilled to announce the new edition from the Bam collection that is ubber modern for your baby through toddler to the Sahara line, you will be happy that you found Argington...We know we are.

Check it out: http://www.vannybean.com/category_124/Argington.htm

Just in time for your special Valentine!!!!

Vanny Bean Updates

2010-01-22T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well Vanny Bean Friends,

It's been a great start to the new year already and almost a month has already past! Vanny Bean has lots of exciting changes ahead. In the past 3 months, we have launched Sama Baby a young hip modern baby organic line formed by two sisters from Texas. SAMA is an ancient Sanskrit word which means balance, calmness and serenity – at SAMA Baby it means everything. Motivation is harmony of the mind, body and spirit. SAMA's mission is to produce high quality/low impact clothing and home goods to help nurture a healthy and happy baby.http://www.vannybean.com/category_118/Sama-Baby.htm Sama Baby is great for new born gift ideas as well as the hard to please toddler. And they will be designing a hip fun denim line soon,so watch out baby!

We also came across one of our favorite green lines, Rock Love Peace, with fun eco friendly tote bags made from recycled fabrics, all natural wood teethers, and hip diaper bags, oh my: http://www.vannybean.com/category_122/ROCK-LOVE-PEACE.htm
Rock Love Peace believes that one person can effect change if given the information and tools. Their goal is to provide consumers with a starting point. Creating products that are unique, inspiring, and support sustainable practices. Gifts that keep on giving.

Vanny Bean will partner with Periwinkle Bloom starting in February to share a line of clothing that is earth friendly, loving, and gives simplicity a whole new love affair. Periwinkle Bloom pieces are generously cut, timeless in form, of lush texture and neutral palette. To nourish the idea of life recycled and celebrate the
carefree nature of a child. Kind design worth handing down from generation to generation.We are very confident in Periwinkle Bloom to bring modern designs to the eco momma's in mind.

And drum roll please, ladies and gents, we are excited to announce one of our biggest 'green' furniture vendors Argington. Argington is all eco-friendly nursery furniture that embraces the love for art, family, and the world we leave our children. Argington‘s furniture shares a common design aesthetic – clean, simple, and tasteful. Our children are the inspiration for each new design and each piece is crafted to have that personal feel. We will be launching the products next week. Email customerservice@vannybean.com to inquire. Vanny Bean will go live with Argington as of next week, so keep checking in on us!

Spring is a very exciting time of year for all of us at Vanny Bean. Vanny Bean will be featured in the February edition of Orange County Parenting Magazine, The Family Groove Spring Edition at www.thefamilygroove.com and have an article in Lawrence Kids Magazine about eco friendly green businesses in the local market.

We want to thank all of our Vanny Bean friends for your business and continued support, as always our mission to you is to provide you with excellent customer service. We know that childhood only gets one chance. So let it realize its full beauty with an ethos that puts beauty, health, and environment first. Reach, stretch, grow, imagine, dream and discover with Vanny Bean. Watch out world, we are bringing about change, for the good that is!

Love Your Friends at www.vannybean.com

Help Haiti By Donating Today

2010-01-16T10:52:00.000-08:00

Relief groups face ‘race against time’ in Haiti

(Help Now by texting 90999 and entering Haiti in the context to donate $10.00 through the Red Cross Today. Lots of blood donations are needed, anyone who can help to donate blood would help save lives right away.) Do what you can to help human kind... www.vannybean.com

msnbc.com news services
updated 11:20 a.m. CT, Sat., Jan. 16, 2010

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - A stream of food, water and U.S. troops flowed toward Haiti on Saturday as donors squabbled over how to reach hungry, haggard earthquake survivors still trying to claw others from ruined buildings before the dying became the dead.

Haiti's government alone has already recovered 20,000 bodies — not counting those recovered by independent agencies or relatives themselves, Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive told The Associated Press. He said a final toll of 100,000 dead would "seem to be the minimum."

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton was expected in Port-au-Prince on Saturday, to confer with President Rene Preval and U.S. and international officials.

She said officials are in a "race against time" before anxiety and anger plunge Port-au-Prince into lawlessness.

The U.S. military operating Haiti's damaged, clogged main airport said it can now handle 90 flights a day, but that wasn't enough to cope with all the planes sent by foreign donors and governments, prompting some to send help by land or by sea.

France's Cooperation Minister Alain Joyandet told The Associated Press that he had filed an official complaint to the U.S. government after two French planes, one carrying a field hospital, were denied permission to land.

A plane carrying the prime ministers of two Caribbean nations also was forced to turn back late Friday due to a lack of space at the airport, the Caricom trade bloc announced.

Haitian President Rene Preval urged donors to avoid arguments.

"This is an extremely difficult situation. We must keep our cool to do coordination and not to throw accusations at each other," Preval said after emerging from a meeting with donor groups and nations at a dilapidated police station that serves as his temporary headquarters due to the destruction of the National Palace and many ministries.

In Washington, President Barack Obama on Saturday enlisted the help of his two predecessors, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, to lead a national drive to raise money for earthquake-ravaged Haiti. The two former presidents have set up the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund to accept donations to help the Haitian people rebuild their lives.

Disposing of bodies
Despite the high-level tension, there were growing signs that foreign aid and rescue workers were getting to the people most in need.

Crowds of Haitians thronged around foreign workers shoveling through piles of wreckage at shattered buildings throughout the city, using sniffer dogs, shovels and in some cases heavy earth moving equipment.

On a street in the heavily damaged downtown area, the spade of a massive bulldozer quickly filled up with dead bodies headed for a morgue and immediate burial. Haiti's Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive told AP that disposing of bodies had become a priority.

"Sadly, we have to bring everybody to mass graves because we are racing against a possible epidemic," he said. Haitians already have been piling bodies and burning them.
The U.S. Southern Command said it now has 24 helicopters flying relief missions — many from warships off the coast — with 4,200 military personnel involved and 6,300 more due by Monday.

But there was still little sign of any aid in parts of the capital four days after the quake, and scattered signs that the desperate — or the criminal — were taking things into their own hands.

A water delivery truck driver said he was attacked in one of the city's slums. There were reports of isolated looting as young men walked through downtown with machetes, and robbers reportedly shot one man whose body was left on the street.

An AP photographer saw one looter haul a corpse from a coffin at a city cemetery and then drive away with the box.

"I don't know how much longer we can hold out," said Dee Leahy, a lay missionary from St. Louis, Missouri, who was working with nuns handing out provisions from their small stockpile. "We need food, we need medical supplies, we need medicine, we need vitamins and we need painkillers. And we need it urgently."

'Drop in the bucket'
U.N. spokeswoman Elizabeth Byrs told the BBC that the Haiti earthquake was "one of the biggest disasters we've ever had to face."

While workers are burying some in mass graves, countless bodies remain unclaimed in the streets and the limbs of the dead protrude from crushed schools and homes.

Residents paint toothpaste around their nostrils and beg passers-by for surgical masks to cut the smell.

"If the government still exists and the United Nations is around, I hope they can help us get the bodies out," said Sherine Pierre, a 21-year-old communications student whose sister died when her house collapsed.

A third of Haiti's 9 million people may be in need of aid. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the World Food Program was providing high-energy biscuits and ready-to-eat meals to around 8,000 people "several times a day."

"Obviously, that is only a drop in the bucket in the face of the massive need, but the agency will be scaling up to feed approximately 1 million people within 15 days and 2 million people within a month," he said.

The effort to get aid to the victims has been stymied by blocked roads, congestion at the airport, limited equipment and other obstacles. U.N. peacekeepers patrolling the capital said public anger was rising and warned aid convoys to add security to guard against looting.

International Red Cross spokesman Paul Conneally said a convoy with a field hospital and medical workers was heading into Haiti by road Saturday from the Dominican Republic because "it's not possible to fly anything into Port-au-Prince right now. The airport is completely congested."

The World Health Organization has said eight hospitals in Port-au-Prince were destroyed or damaged, severely curtailing treatment available for the injured.

Officials said damage to the seaport also is a problem for bringing in aid. The arrival Friday of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson helped immediately by taking pressure off the airport. Within hours, an 82nd Airborne Division rapid response unit was handing out food, water and medical supplies from two cargo pallets outside the airport.
'Crisis of unspeakable magnitude'
Others tried to help in smaller ways.

Milero Cedamou, the 33-year-old owner of a small water delivery company, twice drove his small tanker truck to a tent camp where thousands of homeless people are living. Hundreds clustered around to fill their plastic buckets.

"This is a crisis of unspeakable magnitude; it's normal for every Haitian to help," Cedamou said. "This is not charity."

Medical teams from other nations set up makeshift hospitals to tend to the critically injured — who were still appearing.

"We have the hope we can find more people," said Chilean Maj. Rodrigo Vasquez, whose teams were trying to save those trapped at the Hotel Montana. But others weren't as hopeful. One Haitian woman sitting outside of the destroyed hotel spoke on her cell phone and sobbed. "No one's alive in there," she said in Creole.

'No miracle'
And soon, it will be too late in any case.

"Beyond three or four days without water, they'll be pretty ill," said Dr. Michael VanRooyen of the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative in Boston. "Around three days would be where you would see people start to succumb."

Still, there were improbable triumphs.

"It's a miracle," said Anne-Marie Morel, raising her arms to the sky after a neighbor was found alive in the rubble of a home. If one person could be resuscitated from the utter destruction of this street, there remained hope that many other could still be found alive, she said.

"Nonsense, there is no God and no miracle," shouted back Remi Polevard, another neighbor, who said his five children were somewhere under the nearby debris.

"How could he do this to us?" Polevard yelled.

ROCK LOVE PEACE...BABY!!!!

2010-01-09T20:42:00.000-08:00

Vanny Bean announces the launch of its latest products ROCK LOVE PEACE. Rock Love Peace offers eco-friendly gifts that educate, modivate, and activate one positive change, one mind at a time. Rock Love Peace believes that one person can effect change if given the information and tools. To provide you with the starting place for change creating gifts that are unique, inspiring, and support sustainable practices. Give the gift that keeps on giving by checking out our products.

Vanny Bean's favorite product is the all natural teethers made from sustainably harvested wood and finished with natural ingredients of course. Wooden teethers help stimulate senses while providing a safe alternative to plastics. Did we mention plastic takes 600 years to degrade...

http://www.vannybean.com/category_122/ROCK-LOVE-PEACE.htm

New Years Resolution for your kids

2010-01-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

With the New Years in full swing, everyone is making those ever so devoted New Year's resolutions....Have we thought about having our children make New Years resolutions?

The APP-American Academy of Pediatrics has these guidelines for a healthy happy child in 2010.

The following New Year tips are from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Preschoolers
I will clean up my toys.
I will brush my teeth twice a day, and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.
I won’t tease dogs – even friendly ones. I will avoid being bitten by keeping my fingers and face away from their mouths.

Kids, 5- to 12-years-old
I will drink milk and water, and limit soda and fruit drinks.
I will apply sunscreen before I go outdoors. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I’m playing sports.
I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week!
I will always wear a helmet when bicycling.
I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat and use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt.
I’ll be nice to other kids. I’ll be friendly to kids who need friends – like someone who is shy, or is new to my school
I’ll never give out personal information such as my name, home address, school name or telephone number on the Internet. Also, I’ll never send a picture of myself to someone I chat with on the computer without my parent’s permission.
Kids, 13-years-old and up
I will eat at least one fruit and one vegetable every day, and I will limit the amount of soda I drink.
I will take care of my body through physical activity and nutrition.
I will choose non-violent television shows and video games, and I will spend only one to two hours each day – at the most – on these activities.
I will help out in my community – through volunteering, working with community groups or by joining a group that helps people in need.
I will wipe negative “self talk” (i.e. “I can’t do it” or “I’m so dumb”) out of my vocabulary,
When I feel angry or stressed out, I will take a break and find constructive ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or discussing my problem with a parent or friend.
When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk with an adult about my choices.
When I notice my friends are struggling or engaging in risky behaviors, I will talk with a trusted adult and attempt to find a way that I can help them.
I will be careful about whom I choose to date, and always treat the other person with respect and without coercion or violence.
I will resist peer pressure to try drugs and alcohol.
I agree not to use a cell phone or text message while driving and to always use a seat belt.

Peace on Earth,
Vanny Bean

Feed your brain...

2009-12-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

Blog to Sama Baby Organics website:

http://samababy.wordpress.com/

Happy Holidays, Your Friends at Vanny Bean!

Sama Baby Organics-Guest Blog for Sama Baby

2009-12-21T20:39:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that SAMA baby has asked me to do a guest blog on their site. SAMA baby is a luxurious baby clothing line and made with Organic Cotton.

Let me start by introducing myself and telling you what is the ultimate hype about organic vs. traditional cotton and how samababy.com fits into a lifestyle choice for your baby and loved babies in your life. My name is Nichole Groat and I have been in the apparel industry for ten years, my love of the industry lead me to Kansas to work for an apparel design company and then www.vannybean.com came along. Vanny Bean is an organic baby and toddler boutique, we <3 SAMA baby and carry it as a great choice for clothing.

What’s all the hype about organic anyway…When we are talking about Organic Cotton vs. Traditional Cotton there is a very distinctive, major impact on the environment. Traditional Cotton uses genetically modified seeds and more than likely has a mono (one crop) year after year. This means the soil is striped of nutrients and requires a whole lot of water. Many highly dangerous chemicals are applied to the crop using herbicides which account for 25% of the worlds use, pesticides which nine forms are highly toxic and five have cancer causing effects. The spray then drifts to farms, wildlife, and population in the area…

Organic Cotton uses pure seeds, builds strong nutrient dense soil through crop rotation, and retains water more effectively…Weeds are physically removed through a good ol fashioned hand hoe. No harsh chemicals are used and beneficial insects help protect the crop. When it’s time for the crop to rotate, instead of spraying the crop yet again with harsh chemicals like traditional, Mother Nature does its work through a freeze and the process starts all over again.

The importance of Organic Cotton for your children is an eco-conscious decision that promotes health and safety. Wouldn’t it be nice to use garments that have no harsh chemicals used to produce them…? That is SAMA baby. SAMA baby uses organic cotton for your precious loved ones because they know how important your little one is. Our favorite product by SAMA BABY is the Lucky Layette Gift Set, can you say ‘All in one fun’. The gift set offers a cute basket, towel, hat, romper, and so much more. http://www.vannybean.com/item_1406/Deluxe-Gift-Set.htm

We LOVE SAMA BABY!!!!

Your Friends at Vannybean

Organic Trendy Baby Thermals! New In Stock

2009-12-16T19:43:00.001-08:00

VannyBean's Newest Selection of Organic Thermals is sure to keep your baby Warm, Reflect Function, Simplicty, and Style. Our Organic Thermals are Funky, Hip, Urban and Nature-themed. Take your pick--you are sure to find a Thermal that appeals to your style. VannyBean's Thermals are ALL ORGANIC --of course! Dress your little one up in Royal style...Need we say more!

Polar Bear Rocker on Sale

2009-12-16T19:36:00.001-08:00

At Vanny Bean we love Netto Collection furniture. Netto Collection is designed for the eco-friendly consumer in mind.

The polar bear rocker is a great gift for any baby or toddler. We are offering a limited time discount of 25%...Hurry these will go fast! Made in the E.U. from natural oak: http://www.vannybean.com/item_376/Polar-Bear-Rocker.htm

Sama Baby Joins Vanny Bean

2009-12-03T21:30:00.001-08:00

Its the brand you've all been waiting for...hold on to your seats! Vanny Bean has announced the latest upcoming baby organics line known as Sama Baby. Sama Baby is a unique modern, socially conscious, eco-friendly clothing and products for like minded consumers.

SAMA Baby was founded in 2006 by a group of 3 women from Texas who love working on their line together. All products are 100% certified organic cotton, using earth friendly dyes and products under fair trade conditions making a positive impact on peoples lives as well as their families.

SAMA Baby and Vanny Bean believe in supporting local to ensure a global community of green minded individuals come together.

Happy Shopping everyone...Vanny Bean looks forward to servicing you with new modern upscale companies who think and act green.

Look for the shop by designer for Sama Baby Organics or click:

http://www.vannybean.com/category_72/Shop-by-Designer.htm

New Owner!: Vanity Fair Loves Sama Baby

2009-12-03T21:30:00.000-08:00

New Owner!: Vanity Fair Loves Sama Baby

2009-12-03T21:29:00.000-08:00

New Owner!: Vanity Fair Loves Sama Baby

Vanity Fair Loves Sama Baby

2009-12-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, when sisters Shivani and Neha Gupta were perusing options for eco-friendly baby apparel, they were sorely disappointed in the options available. “We only saw a few little onesies,” Neha says. “When you touched the material, it felt rough—almost like a potato sack. We knew that there had to be a better way.”

In 2006, that feeling led the sisters and their mother, Anita, to found Sama Baby Organics, an eco-friendly fashion company with a range of options for kids. The fashion-forward line uses eco-friendly materials (including organic cotton and nontoxic dyes) and processes and is inspired by their home country of India. Sama Baby Organics carries hoodies, tees, and jeans for boys, and halter-style dresses, mini-tunics, and capri leggings are available for girls. “When I’m designing, I definitely think of the different colors that look good on different skin tones,” Neha says. “The bright colors and neat prints are completely inspired by the romantic colors and textures of India.”

An ancient Sanskrit word, sama means balance, calmness, and serenity. Even as the label has grown, Shivani, who serves as C.E.O., and Neha, who is vice president and head designer, continue to visit India themselves and remain hands-on throughout the entire production process. “This is what makes the difference,” Neha says. “We know the language. We have a relationship with our manufacturers like that of family. I’m personally talking to the factory heads.”

The dichotomy between the East and the West has been on Neha’s mind since she was a painter in high school. “All of my paint subjects became focused on East and West,” she said. “What is the view of beauty in each? What are the cultures? What are the values?” With Sama Baby Organics, she continues to combine the best from each side of the world. “My designs are Western silhouettes with Eastern prints and colors. I never thought that all my interests would come together in synergy,” she says.

Although green fashion has recently gotten more attention, Neha says she’s proud that Sama Organics has been committed to sustainability from the start. “Eco-apparel is a totally different way of operating,” she explains. “From the factory working at higher standards to the required health-care regulations, it’s fair trade and organic through and through. It’s changing the standard of life and the way the world is affected.”

Isobooties Shoes 40% off

2009-11-21T16:26:00.001-08:00

We love Isobooties Super-soft, breathable Ultrasuede fabric with Non-slip, durable Toughtek soles. They are Machine-washable, machine-dryable Pediatrician recommended with soft-soles for your little ones soft soul. We love that they are Stain-resistant,Easy slip-on, design doesn't slip off, and are 100% animal-free.
IsaBooties work great on many outdoor surfaces, including grass and mulch. However, IsaBooties are not recommended for heavy pavement use.
Made in the USA

Vanny Bean's Announces New Owner

2009-11-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

Vannybean.com announces a new change in ownership as of October 2009. Vanny Bean welcomes Ms. Nichole as the new owner! Nichole has a passion for being a mother to her daughter Adaley and has a mindfully modern approach to the environment. Her love for the environment combined with being a mother has lead her to Vanny Bean. Read more about Nichole at http://www.vannybean.com/pages/AboutUs.htm

Vanny Bean was created with the hopes, dreams, desires and blessings of all parents in mind. We strive to bring mindfully modern organic childrens clothing, nursery furniture, and quality health products that bring children and parents together for active imagination and play.

We believe the quality of interaction we give our customers is just as important as our products. At Vanny Bean, you are more than a consumer, you are a network of modern, eco friendly individuals in a community...you are a friend!

At Vanny Bean, we will be adding modern organic childrens clothes and furniture to you with fun new updates all the time! With vendors like Nursery Works, Netto Collection, Amenity, Pixel Organics, Pkolino, Green babies, Skoon, Eco Ike and many more you can be sure that Vanny Bean brings eco concious products to you! Visit our featured products at www.vannybean.com

So Be Well, Be Happy, Be Beautiful, Be You!

Your Friends at Vanny Bean

Kids Coat Rack

2009-11-14T19:16:00.000-08:00

This adorable coat rack is a great way to add some fun to any entry! Inspired by rhinocerous, the horns are much better that a standard coat hook at preventing jackets from falling to the floor. Small scale allows rack to fit in any space.

The rack comes fully assembled and is easily hung on drywall using included hardware. All edges are rounded for safety and a greenguard certified water based finish is applied. Available in colors below or clear finish.

Birch Plywood

17"L x 6.5"H x 3.5"D

Get 10% off today by visiting the following link at vannybean:

http://www.vannybean.com/item_1368/Rhino-Coat-Rack.htm

Frog Rack

2009-11-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

Inspired by our frog cabinet, this shelf is scaled to fit any entry, and allows clean and convenient storage of electronic devices, wallets, keys, and other small personal accessories.

The shelf comes fully assembled and is easily hung on drywall using included hardware. All edges are rounded for safety and a greenguard certified water based finish is applied. Available in colors below or clear finish.

Birch Plywood

19.5"L x 11.5"H x 5"D

Vanny Bean is offering 10% off...get them while they last!

Empire Rocker by Nurseryworks on Sale at VannyBean

2009-09-17T19:27:00.000-07:00

Oh and did we mention that we find the custom and sustainably made Empire Rocker by Nurseryworks very attractive at %50 OFF! Another Lawson-Fenning design adding clean design and the environment in mind to furnish your nursery or even your sitting room. You will love the comfort and crafstmanship of the Empire Rocker. We heart Nurseryworks!

Canterbury Changing Table On Sale at www.vannybean.com

2009-09-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

Nurseryworks designs by Lawson-Fenning fuses modern, clean design with American Settler's love affair of knobbed wood, durability and simplicity. And hark!, it is on sale here at http://www.vannybean.com/ at %15 off. Have questions, or concerns, email us at customerservice@vannybean.com and hurry for this amazing piece to complete your beautiful, modern nursery that is, of course, made sustainably.

VannyBean is featuring Pixel Organics Pink Adorable Organic Baby Clothes

2009-09-16T13:56:00.001-07:00

Really! Even more? Yes, even more lovely, adorable selections of soft, buttery organic clothing! VannyBean is now featuring Pixel Organics baby bedding and clothing (with more to come!). However, we can't take our eyes off of the "girlie girly" organic selections of Pixel Organics. The gently produced organic cotton uses low impact dyes the sytles feature a long lean fit. The fun pink and browns with nature themed designs are perfect for treasuring your child's fleeting infanthood and toddlerhood.

Eco-Tots Furniture Featured in People Magazine

2009-08-31T07:24:00.000-07:00

VannyBean loves the simple, fun designs of Eco-Tots for any child's eco-friendly bedroom or nursery. Manufactured with the use of North American grown materials, these items are a great addition to any child's room. Not to mention, they don't require the use of tools for assemby. All products are formaldehyde-free and are made with non-toxic water based stains- a true "green" furniture item for a healthier household. Check out VannyBean's Eco-Tots selection in our Nursery category

Fleurville Beach Bag on Sale

2009-08-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Don't miss out on this bag that is PVC free and made with recycyled plastic bottles. The Fleurville Beach Bag in Pink & White Ogo is on sale for $50.00, normally priced at $75.00. The Fleurville Beach Bag is a limited edition item and is a beautiful tulip shaped tote that is stripped down to provide you with the perfect companion for beach or pool this summer. Great fabrics treated with our Green-LAM process produce a bag that is durable but not tough on the environment. Water and UV resistant, Green-LAM makes a great Summer bag. Large, padded loop handles make carrying a heavy load easier while 2 internal mesh pockets keep sun-block and a paper back ready for quick access. Tote your gear in style and enjoy the season!
Features:
Tubular webbing tote handles
Five feet on bottom
Caribiner key clip (inside)
2 mesh pockets
Green-LAM
PVC-freeSpecial Features:

Freezing Organic Foods for Baby

2009-07-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

We want to post a tip for embracing natural living for you and your baby. What you need is a freezer, a farmer's market (or access to organic produce, i.e. your garden), and a food processor or blender.
It's now that you can find delicious produce harvesting. Take advantage of the summer's bounty and come up with some delicious baby food to freeze for future use. If you little one is on to bigger things, don't be shy to "blanch" the green beans and freeze them for you and your family. Freezing fresh, organic produce is a cost effective way to eat organically year-round.

Sale Continues for Organic Baby Clothes & Much More

2009-07-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

Join VannyBean this week to experience excellent sales for some of our top designer organic baby clothes, slings & eco-friendly baby shoes. Visit http://www.vannybean.com/ to see our sale items and modern eco-friendly nursery furniture.

Isabooties Sale--40% off

2009-07-01T08:51:00.000-07:00

VannyBean is having a fun & fabulous Independence Day Sale. We want to focus in on the Isabooties, which are are 100% animal-free, formaldahyde-free and made in the USA. The fabrics used, exceed the Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Toy Safety. Don't miss out on this great deal!

Organic Baby Clothes, Shoes & Slings on Sale Now

2009-06-30T08:00:00.001-07:00

Find hot deals at VannyBean this week with organic baby clothes such as Speesees, Sckoon and Greenbabies 30% off. Select Karma Baby Slings are 20% off and the adorable eco-friendly Isabooties are now 40% off! Visit http://www.vannybean.com/ now and don't miss out on the free shipping with these bargains!

VannyBean adores Speesees Organic Kimono Bodysuit

2009-05-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

This summer, let your baby enjoy staying cool in Speesees organic Kimono Bodysuit from VannyBean Baby Organics. The fun designs and colors shout summer fun for baby. Not to mention, the organic cotton keeps baby's sensitive skin from absorbing any toxic pesticides used in the cotton growing process.

Need an organic baby gift, this would be a perfect fit for that special baby. Available in sizes 0-3, 6-12, 12-18 months. Find your way to Speesees Organic Designs.

Consider a new Bike Trailer for summertime excursions

2009-05-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

As we embrace a more healthy lifestyle, by eating organic produce, buying organic clothing when we are able, let us not forget that part embracing a more "green" life is getting outside and enjoying mother nature. If you don't have a bike trailer for your tots, consider the Dreamer Exec Lite Trailer.

It is roomy enough for two children, and all your gear, this lightweight aluminum framed trailer is ready for the road! With the included stroller kit, adventures are now a tow and a stroll!
Aluminum frame.
Padded handle.
One-step folding.
Breathable padded seating area.
5-point harness.
Many convenient parent and child pockets.
Large view port canopy window.
Reflective fabric and binding.
Removable and machine washable fabric.
behind seat storage basket.

Happy Green Bee Organic Bathing Suit

2009-05-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Beachside attire now can include an organic and fair trade option when thinking of outfitting our children for summer. Happy Green Bee offers fun, childish designs for summer fun. Check out VannyBean's selection of the Happy Green Bee sporty one piece suit. This cute thing flatters shapely bathing beauties with a gently ruffled skirt and cheerful stripes. Simple styling, soft and stretchy, easy on, easy off for quick changes!

Water Slings & Eco-friendly Beach Bag = ONE SMART MAMA

2009-05-18T19:08:00.000-07:00

Think Karma Baby water slings and Fleurville eco-friendly beach bags this summer as you head to your choice of water fun.

Our Karma Baby water slings are made with solarveil material which blocks out 95% of UV harmful rays. Their soft, summery colors reveal a look of fun, while protecting baby at the same time. You will find that these slings provide a snug fit as you chase your toddler around and hold baby close to you in the summer fun.

The Fleurville Beach Bag is a limited edition bag just in time for summer. This beautiful tulip shaped tote is stripped down to provide you with the perfect companion for beach or pool this summer. Great fabrics treated with our Green-LAM process produce a bag that is durable but not tough on the environment. Water and UV resistant, Green-LAM makes a great Summer bag. Large, padded loop handles make carrying a heavy load easier while 2 internal mesh pockets keep sun-block and a paper back ready for quick access. Tote your gear in style and enjoy the season!

Nurseryworks Sale Continues with Incredible Prices

2009-04-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

Catch what is left with the Nurserywork's Sale with items up to 75% off!

Baby Crib Bedding

Twin Bedding

Modern Nursery Rockers, Perches and Gliders

Contact us at customerservice@vannybean.com if you have any questions.

Don't miss this opportunity to build your modern nursery with incredible prices!

VannyBean Celebrates Earth Day with a Sale

2009-04-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Join us this Earth Day Season to celebrate an EXCLUSIVE EARTH DAY sale on all of our organic clothes designed by Speesees of San Francisco. We've introduced you to them in an earlier post and now we want to share the love with 10% off now until Earth Day (April 22nd). From organic baby jumpers, to organic onesies, you will love the designs, bright colors as well as the careful and safe production methods for baby to wear.

HAPPY EARTH DAY

"Mama" our new category at VannyBean

2009-04-05T11:20:00.000-07:00

We've added a new category to our store: MAMA. Because there are some things that are too fabulous for us to pass up for our sweet mamas. We've just added some new nursing pads for our mamas that are breast feeding their babes and need a visual pick-me-up from their nursing necessities. These nursing pads are called "Posh Pads" designed, of course, by mamas. They describe their products as such

"Becoming a mother is the most important job we women will ever have and we should not only treat our babies to the best but treat ourselves a little along this wonderous journey. We hope POSH Pads bring a smile to your face and a little humor into others, and POSH Pads just might be the prettiest thing you wear today, even if your in your pj's for most of it!"

CHECK 'EM OUT. . .ENJOY!

Children's Art: Eco-Friendly & Safe!

2009-04-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

NEW TO OUR STORE

ORGANIC (EDIBLE) BABY PAINTS

P'KOLINO MULTI-USE ART EASEL

Art Inspired edible organic baby paints. . yeah that's right! We offer organic & edible, all in the name of self-expression.

These paints were created and used by a stay-at-home mom who sought out safe-to-use paints for her baby's self expression. Et Voila. . . .we present Wee Can Too Organic Baby Paints.

The paints are easy to use and made with infant-safe organic ingredients. They have an incredible shelf life, leave no stain on tables or skin, have a pleasant taste, but not too pleasant so not to encourage the child to eat the paint, and are very nutritious!

P'KOLINO MULTI-USE ART EASEL

A multifunctional, creative space for growing minds!
This playfully smart art easel has so many neat-o benefits. Use it as a traditional easel, a chalkboard, a white board, or a puppet theater. Included are two fabulous “coloring-book” scenes to use as backdrops when this clever easel is in puppet theater mode. There is room in the back to add a P’kolino Play Kit and the entire unit folds flat for easy storage. Playfully designed for children ages 3 and up.

Speesees Organic Clothes for Babies + Toddlers

2009-03-25T06:19:00.000-07:00

Oh say--we love our new Speesees collection. From opening the biodegradable packaging, to musing over the bright colors and fun graphics--we find Speesees the perfect fit for those seeking fun, organic, fair trade and safe. In their products, Speesees Designers from the Bay Area explain what their recipe is for these little hip digs--

speesees ingredients::organic cottonlow-impact dyespigment + pvc-free prints nickel-free snaps no formaldehyde no dioxin lots of love
Speesees cotton is 100% skal-certified organic, which means no pesticides or chemical fertilizers have been used in its cultivation. speesees fabrics are treated with low-impact / herbal dyes, prints are made with pigments / pvc-free plastisols, + we skip the dioxin + formaldehyde altogether. our soft + durable cotton is long-staple (long fibers :: no prickles) + extra-comfy for kids. growing organically with speesees is healthy for our animal, plant, + human

VannyBean loves eco-friendly nursery furniture

2009-03-03T06:38:00.000-08:00

VannyBean is elated to feature Nurseryworks products and with their incredible sale, having an eco-friendly nursery is affordable. Today we want to feature the SLEEPYTIME ROCKER. Normally priced at $900.00, this is being sold at 50% off!!!With bold colors such as lime green and citrus, to earth tones, this rocker will add style to any palette you might choose for your nursery. Read more to find out why & how Nurseryworks is not only a modernly stylish choice, but an responsible & eco-friendly option for "greening" your nursery or any other room in your house.

As stated on their website, Nurseryworks mission is to provide clean, simple, handcrafted contemporary furnishings made with environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes. Here are some of the reasons why Nurseryworks products are a green, safe, and stylish choice.
+ Nurseryworks uses renewable materials. Paulownia wood is a key material. It is a fast-growing, richly grained, light weight and fire- and decay-resistant hardwood species that takes stain beautifully, and that won't warp, split, or crack. Thanks to its deep root network and its unusual physiology, it can help reclaim ecologically stressed land relatively quickly by upgrading the organic content of degraded soils.
+ Nurseryworks products are safe. They are tested to governmental standards on a quarterly basis and are certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association. In addition, the products are air-chamber tested to examine and eliminate toxic materials. The testing methods are intense and measure materials down to parts per billion. The first concern is that products are not emitting dangerous toxins.
+ When construction requirements (for the Nurseryworks signature carvings and unique crib slat designs) call for medium density fiberboard (MDF), Nurseryworks uses Grade E0, the safest grade available. A composite of wood chips and glue, MDF tends to off-gas formaldehyde because of a heat-bonding process that requires formaldehyde resins. The Harmonized European Standard classifies wood-based panels, including MDF, as E0, E1, and E2/E3, depending on the degree of formaldehyde emission. Grade E0 releases less than 0.5mg per liter. (Grade E1 lets off 9mg per 100g, while Grade E2/E3 secretes 9mg-39mg per 100g.)
+ Nurseryworks uses low-VOC finishes, lacquers, and glues.
+ Nurseryworks uses formaldehyde-free dyes.

VannyBean will be attending the Natural Living Expo

2009-03-02T10:55:00.001-08:00

MARCH 28-29 (SATURDAY & SUNDAY)
10:00-6:00 P.M.

Come by and see VannyBean Baby Organics at the 4th Annual Des Moines Natural Living Expo at the Polk County Convention Center. Along with other educational organizations and eco-friendly retailers, we will have a booth featuring our eco-friendly baby products along with a drawing for a Fleurville Diaper Bag--made from recycled plastic. If you can't attend the expo, sign up for our newsletter on www.vannybean.com and we'll enter you in our drawing.

We'll be sharing our booth with Before and After the Birth--natural childbirth education. We hope to see you there!

VannyBean Welcomes Roebuck Studio

2009-03-01T20:07:00.000-08:00

Environmentally Responsible, Modern Style & Affordable--here at VannyBean we love these words together. Introducing Roebuck Studio-- which offers fun, imaginative children’s furniture. Roebuck Studio is a design and manufacturing company offering high quality, moderately priced, modern styled furniture built with sustainable materials in an environmentally responsible way. We, at VannyBean, are thrilled to feature their beautiful designs and fun furniture.

Roebuck Studio makes furniture for your kids and each piece is made with an honest expression of material and construction that will stimulate your childs design and creative thinking. “We must make things with great hope and faith, for there is joy and fulfillment in creation.” – George Nakashima

Green Living Tips for Exercise

2009-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

At VannyBean, we like to toot the horns of the products we carry, as they are eco-cool. However, we want to be adding more on our blog about green living, in general. Indeed, we are retailers who love organic baby clothes and eco-friendly baby products, but we also love improving and exploring ways to treat the planet better in our daily lives. So, on this post, let us explore Green Living tips surrounding how we exercise.

GET OUTSIDE
First and foremost, GET OUTSIDE! A part of natural living and being "green" is getting out in it. Spending time outside will flourish your desire and understanding of the earth's many ecosystems and better enhance your knowledge of your local ecoystems. Look at places to explore on your local "parks & rec" website or visit state DNR (Department of Natural Resources) websites for places of beauty to get outside for solo time or with the babes. If you are with the babes, consider our Dreamer Ditto Manhattan Merge double jogging stroller, or look to buying used if need be. But definitely, GET OUTSIDE!

Yes, we know, we know, right now it's winter and so we must consider snow sports--this is a tough one in our household since we have an infant, but don't brush off the benefits of building snow forts & snow queens. Being in the fresh air, sun and trudging in the deep snow can lift spirits and burn calories at the same time. Otherwise, if you don't have your own equipment, consider renting equipment for a trek on the cross country skis, or if the snowfall calls for it--snowshoeing (our favorite)!

BE PVC FREE

Choose duffel bags or gym bags made from recycled plastic over petroleum-derived virgin polyester (PVC), like our Re-Run Fleurville bags, which are made from recycled plastic bottles. According to The Green Book by Elizabeth Rogers & Thomas M. Kostigen, if "1 percent of Americans who participate in outdoor activities each year were to purchase a sports bag made from recycled materials, more than 180,00 pounds of plastic could be diverted from the trash (p.109)." Is your Yoga Mat, PVC free also? Avoid Petroleum-derived plastic mats and go for those made from natural rubber, jute or cotton.

AVOID ALUMINUM

Avoid Aluminum--whether it's a ball bat, or the new bike you will use in the triathlon for whichyou are training. Aluminum is the most energy intensive of all materials manufactured in the U.S. So for ball bats--think of wood or bamboo. For bikes--check out the steel frames, especially those made from recycled steel.

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE

Please recycle: Recycle your used bike tires-please. We can make many more products from our recycled bike tires, such as handbags and shoe soles and even more bicycle paths. According to The Green Book, "if one in fourteen American cyclists were to recycle his or her bicycle tires each year, the rubber saved could pave the current route of the Tour De France." Now that is Magnifique!

Valentine's Day Sale

2009-01-25T20:28:00.000-08:00

VannyBean celebrates St. Valentine's Day with an eco-friendly bundle of goodness for baby.

eco-friendly baby shoes

eco-friendly diaper bags

modern nursery furniture

designer organic baby clothes

When thinking of gifts for that special mama sporting a bump right now, think of gifting her with sweet organic clothes, or a functional/hip diaper bag.

Check out these sale items and you won't be disappointed.

Also browse the fabulous, amazing deals by designer and eco-conscious Nurseryworks. Their products will grace your nursery with loveliness for this holiday of love.

Organic Baby, Organic

2009-01-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

Get Your Green On

Go organic baby, organic! For 2009, greenify yourself and have your little pea pod wearing, well uh. .. a pea pod. Promote your dedication to local, natural, organic foods with a statement of cuteness. Your organic baby could be wearing these soft, organic duds from Green Babies. Made in the USA and manufactured with ultra soft organic cotton and low-impact dyes, your baby will be thank you for the comfort and attention s/he will render. Check it out at http://www.vannybean.com/

Babywearing for the Colicky Baby

2008-12-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

Many blogs will feature holiday themes, as ours has already. But this particular post goes out to all of those newborn babies who might be a little colicky and the mamas and papas who are holding them into late hours of the night. In our household we think that one remedy for crying baby and tired mamas is an organic, pouch sling.
Why newborns might cry incessantly is a mystery and has many theories: upset tummy, "some babies are just that way", gassy baby, etc. Reading of other cross-cultural experiences of how people respond to colick, some of the world's peoples have baby hammocks they make for a baby that cradles and rocks. The one comfort in this is to know that it experienced all over the globe.
Experiencing what I did with my own newborn (first born) it is important to remember that
1) every baby is different
2) if you become frustrated, ask for help
3) soothe your baby and do what works for her/him
4) know that this too shall pass

5) if nursing, nurse as much as possible and try to eliminate foods that might be upsetting. For me, this included peanuts, as we later found out our baby had a peanut allergy.

Interviewing other moms and reading other people's experiences, what does seem to help is to cuddle, swaddle and cradle the baby with a soft bounce. For our little girl, this was the only soothing method that worked. We actually had an exercise ball and had to toss the rocking chair aside, as she only wanted to bounce up and down not glide back and forth. She would also wake to the little squeaks of the rocking chair. This baby of ours was highly sensitive! As for the bouncing motion, why does it work? The theory: recreating the movement in the womb. It makes sense when thinking of how babies don't experience the back and forth motion of a rocker, rather the soft bounce of up-and-down, safe inside mama's womb. Indeed, we bounced away and our exercise ball busted from the intense use.
Our other weapon: a pouch sling. It goes along with the wisdom of other societies and what people have done for thousands of years: wear your baby. Our baby slept, nursed and hung out in her pouch sling. And when she would screech and holler, she'd instantly calm down and feel soothed by it. The sling not only became an item of convenience, but of survival. Rattled parental nerves were also smoothed over by the slings comforting abilities. We have several slings--one for water, a fleece sling that stretches and cuddles and a cotton sling for the humid mid-western days.
The beauty of the pouch sling is that it is practical for a child well into the toddler years. Sometimes, I still put my 2 1/2 year old in the sling; bum inside, legs straddled out when she needs to be held like my 9 month old.
As for my nine month old baby, she gets so excited at the sight of the pouch sling. She kicks her legs and is now clapping her hands to know that she can ride along with mama during her daily tasks. Not to mention, I have my hands free to sling around the yogurt and other demanded snacks for my toddler.
Take a look at our selection of pouch slings and if you are experiencing a colicky baby, please share what works for you or what questions you might have.

2008-11-23T19:57:00.000-08:00

A new label, with buttery soft organic cotton is here: Eco-Ike. We fell in love with the simple, sweet designs that reminded us of images from a French storybook circa 1920's. The sizes are for babies up to toddlers. You will find these organic cotton duds not only adorable, but also practical. They wear well with a simple pant style such as cute baby jeans, a skirt or even a diaper only day. I know we talked about how soft this organic cotton baby shirt is. . .but really you won't believe it.

Eco-Ike's founder is designer and mom, Faith Moser. Always mindful of the environment, having a baby took it up a notch,making her into a self-proclaimed "earth worry wort." Eco-Ike's mission is to encourage folks to "go green and take better care of the earth." Eco-Ike is doing their part by providing cute designs on organic, fair-trade cotton shirts and using water based inks that stay clear of PVC and phthalates. It's always nice to know that our child is sporting a shirt doesn't contain heavy metals such as lead either. Thanks Eco-Ike--we like these shirts and sweet designs a lot!

Understanding Organic & Fair Trade Certifications

2008-11-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

The terms "eco-friendly" and "green" have finally made their way into the mainstream, however these terms are rooted in the concern of environmental quality over the past several decades. They are even finding themselves in reference to children’s clothes and toys. You might find yourself reading “organic baby clothes sold here”, or “designer rugs for baby’s nursery sold here—fair trade”. But, what does this mean and what should the consumer be looking for in terms of green products.

Throughout the past several decades, various certifications and “eco-friendly” seeking organizations have been born in order to add validity and regulation to manufacturers and producers of items that are “organic”, “fair-trade” and “eco-friendly.” Largely this has been a response to the lacking of regulation in the government realm. It was and is important for the consumer to understand and be familiar with various certification agencies. And they simply have responded to those conscious in learning how global manufacturing and trading of goods have revealed harmful practices and substances for both humans and the environment.

For starters, as a consumer, you should also be looking for manufacturers to be a member of the Organic Trade Association whose mission is to promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy.

When shopping for organic baby clothes, for example, you may want to know that they are for certain “organic.” For example, Sckoon Organics of New York have organic baby clothes as a response to the harmful pesticides and insecticides used in cotton production. And when we think of a baby’s skin being 7 times thinner that adults, we start to listen to why organic is important. But, going a step further, Sckoon Organics align themselves with Demeter International. Demeter (international biodynamic certification board) is one certifying agency that seeks out members. On its website Demeter writes
“Demeter is the brand for products from Biodynamic Agriculture. Only strictly controlled and contractually bound partners are permitted to use the Brand. A comprehensive verification process insures strict compliance with the International Demeter Production and Processing Standards, as well as applicable organic regulations in the various countries; without a gap, through every step, from agricultural production to processing and final product packaging. Yet, the holistic Demeter requirements exceed government mandated regulations. Not only do they exclude the use of synthetic fertilizers and chemical plant protection agents in agricultural crop production, or artificial additives during processing, but also require very specific measures to strengthen the life processes in soil and foodstuffs.”

In addition, members of SKAL international are part of an organization that “independently regulates and certifies international standards for sustainable textile production.” One of the newest lines of organic baby clothes that have been all the rage, Happy Green Bee, are members of this organization.

Finding a designer and label that are part of these memberships better assures you as a customer, that you are buying products that are free of child labor or those which are made with harmful pesticides and insecticides. One may even buy carpets that carry the RugMark label. This little label assures that no child labor was used in the manufacturing of a handmade rug and the consumer is supporting a non-profit “which is the international nonprofit organization devoted to building schools, programs and opportunities that give children back their childhoods by ending child labor in the handmade carpet industry in South Asia.” Such companies as not Neutral carry such rugs. Now people can decorate their baby’s rooms with modern style without compromising the humane conditions of other peoples.

Indeed, being eco-friendly means that we look beyond the product itself and put on our "responsible consumer lens" to more closely consider the manufacturing of the product and its location. When being mindful of buying a product, we want to know what practices were used when growing or harvesting the product materials and who made them.

Consider Sckoon Organics for the Holidays

2008-11-08T20:51:00.000-08:00

When the shipment arrived, we ripped open the box to find such soft, adorable organic cotton baby clothes from Sckoon Organics of New York. Their styles stand out as being hip and unique with a fusion of Japanese and Euro designs. Style aside, Sckoon Organics are attractive to VannyBean because they are members of the Organic Trade Association http://www.ota.com/index.html and Demeter International http://demeter.net/ . In addition, they have been featured in such magazines as American Baby, Cookie, Mothering, Earnshaws, Organic Styles and other feature publications.

So we love funky baby clothes, especially when they are fair trade and organic. Sckoon's soft organic clothing is also 100% Fair Trade, as Sckoon products are made in Egypt, India and Japan at fair trade factories.

Simply click on the images to browse these and other fun items from Sckoon--you'll love them. We know we do.

Fleurville Eco-Friendly Diaper Bags

2008-10-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

Let us gladly elaborate on the function, style and environmentally friendly diaper bag that Fleurville has designed for the busy parent in mind. Let us explain. . .

Eco-Friendly? How? This bag is PVC free which means that is free of ployvinyl chloride (PVC). In its production fleurville explains that "PVC fuses vinyl chloride molecules with toxic metals such as lead and cadmium which are added as plasticizers and stabilizers" thus creating harmful byproducts.

So why would any manufactuer use this method? Guess. . .it's cheap. Fleurville is committed to providing PVC free bags because it's an environmentally sustainable method. And it doesn't end there--Fleurville makes their diaper bags and totes with Green-LAM . Green-LAM repels moisture, is resistance to UV rays and is ultra durable.

Functional? How? Well let us brag that we've used this bag and it is wonderful! What we love the most is that you can reach in with one hand. Any mama and daddy know that after having a baby, we are only able to use one hand many times, especially if we have a toddler at our feet as well. The Mothership is ultra functional, with a removable insulated bottle holder, changing pad, a zippered sack which is leak proof, a carabiner/key clip for those wandering keys, multiple interior pockets and a shoulder strap that --gasp--stays on one's shoulders. The Mothership is ultra spacious--a godsend for us--as we are parents of 2 in diapers.

A must have? Yes! Where do you find it? Right here at VannyBean--just click on the picture above.

Thank You Pure-Ecommerce

2008-10-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

Now that we have launched VannyBean, we want to thank Pure Ecommerce for their guidance and expertise they have offered us since VannyBean's inception. It is Pure Ecommerce's guidance that has allowed us to be bold and take steps to feature such products as organic baby clothes, sustainable "green" nursery furniture, eco-friendly diaper bags, and other accessories for a healthy childhood.
Pure Ecommerce has consulted with us on many different levels including details surrounding product selection, site design, essentials for customer service and ecommerce business practices. It is no doubt, we will continue to seek the helpful advise of Pure Ecommerce to assure we run a successful online business and offer our customers the best in products and assistance.

Thanks Pure E!

Happy Green Bee on the Today show and VannyBean

2008-10-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

VannyBean proudly sells Happy Green Bee clothing line, as featured today (October 22nd, 2008) on the NBC Today show. Happy Green Bee's founder, Roxanne Quimby, was able to share her story and philosophy as a Top Female CEO and strong advocate for natural products and organic cotton kids clothing. You might know her more from her former company, Burt's Bees, which she recently sold for hundreds of millions.
Ms. Quimby's new pet project is Happy Green Bee whose mission is "to create cheerful gender-free clothing with sustainable earth friendly manufacturing practices in an effort to meet and increase the demand for organic children's clothing that not only looks and feels great but is contributing in positive ways to the welfare of our planet."
Happy Green Bee—a company producing organic cotton playwear for infants and children—creates children's clothing and accessories made with nontoxic dyes and no chemical bleaches or finishers. In addition, Happy Green Bee products are made in fair-trade-certified factories that are monitored for worker health and safety.

Happy Green Bee's site www.happygreenbee.com provides useful, yet alarming information on conventional cotton practices. Read below to better understand why organic cotton is not only wonderful for your baby, but for the planet

"Clothing made with organically grown cotton does not retain toxic residues; it is a pure, natural, and breathable fiber.
Before the 1950s, cotton-growing mainly involved sustainable techniques, but now cotton is one of the most environmentally damaging crops grown in the world, resulting in wide-scale water pollution, chronic illness in farm workers, and calamitous effects on wildlife. Conventionally grown cotton occupies only three percent of the world's farmland, but uses 25 percent of the world's chemical insecticides, including Parathion, which is at least 30 times more toxic than DDT! As insects develop pesticide resistance over time, farmers desperate to keep up yields often resort to genetically modified cottonseed and heavier and heavier cocktails of pesticide poisons. Ironically, less than ten percent of those chemicals actually accomplish their task—the rest are absorbed into the plants, the soil, the air, the water and eventually, our bodies.
Cotton occupies only 3% of the world's farmland, but uses 25% of the world's chemical pesticides. Worldwide, 25 to 75 million agricultural workers suffer from acute pesticide poisoning" (http://www.happygreenbee.com/)

See Ms. Quimby for yourself at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/27319792#27319792

We, at VannyBean, find her to be inspiring.

On Deck for a Launch

2008-09-29T08:58:00.001-07:00

We at VannyBean are almost ready to launch. We are thrilled with our hip and modern product selection for children. We're even more excited that these items are manufactured and designed with organic, fair trade and sustainability in mind. We will be featuring, in our blog, the fabulous product lines along with explanations as to why we have chosen them.

Lately we've been jumping up and down because we will soon have Sckoon Organics from New York. Sckoon Organics bring us children's clothing that are all organic and fair trade. They keep child development in mind with their designs, by catering to comfort and function for the moving baby. As for design, the fusion of Japanese imagery with comfort make them a perfect package for parents particular about hip, stylish and uniqueness for baby and toddler.

We'll keep you posted, as there is much more to come. . .

Welcome to VannyBean!

2008-09-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

At VannyBean, we strive to provide smart, sustainable, eco-friendly and attractive life accessories for infancy and childhood. Our goal is to offer exceptional quality products to help nurture healthy, active, and educated children in a modern, beautiful way. We meticulously select products that help parents and children be together, get outside, play, discover and be dashing while doing so!
As VannyBean's creators, we are a husband and wife team whose hobbies and experiences include outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, living and teaching abroad, and most joyously-being proud parents of our daughters Savannah, two, and Sabine, six months. We have created VannyBean for today's child and today's parents, with an ethos that puts beauty, health and environment first.
We're dedicated to superior customer service, and we value quality over quantity. We know that childhood only gets one chance. So let it realize its full beauty with your friends at VannyBean.

Be Well, Be Happy, Be Beautiful
Heather and Ryan Carlson