CLOSING OUT SALE - UP TO 80% OFF!!!

So we are closing our doors - and yes, that means a truly monumental sale. Of everything. Including the light fixtures and yes, all of the furniture too. It's especially fab because even all Chick Pea classic favorites (that never go on sale) are on clearance:

- natural rubber soothers $6
- knits from $20
- petit bateau from $5
- ben sherman shirts for $20
- debbie bliss yarn $5
- gift cards $2.50

Seriously, a sale to check out. And fast - we are not able to hold merchandise, all sales are final, and we are doing our best to wrap up and close our doors before this baby arrives. Talk about a deadline that's hard to miss!!!!

See you all soon,

Kim
xoxo



PS Thanks to the good folks at Getty Images (a site I love for inspiration!) for allowing me the small pleasure of sharing this laughing baby with you...!!!

Chick Pea is closing its doors...

Dear everyone,

Good bye!

After five wonderful years in Metro Vancouver, it's finally time for Chick Pea to close it's doors, at least for a while. From Commercial and The Drive, to Front Street in New West, we have been so fortunate to have meet inspiring families who have stayed true to the vision of Chick Pea from the beginning.

These moms and dads (you know who you are!) have become friends, we've watched babies grow from soft little bundles into kindergardeners, and we have all cherished the time we've spent with them.

A huge thanks to all of you for your great support. It's because of family that Chick Pea is closing now. I'm due in 2 weeks now with our first little baby boy, and as we all discover, family definitely comes first and I want these precious little people in my life to get all of the time and attention they deserve.

Chick Pea may be closing its doors...and rather quickly...but we're not gone.

There's always Chick Pea in Ottawa you can visit for an East Coast fix (who doesn't love our capital city!?!), and I imagine there will be an interesting way for us to continue bringing you new and wonderful products and ideas in the future.

Please come out an support us to the end - and pick up some great steals! - at our closing sale which starts right now. I deliver this little bundle on September 17th so we're doing our best to close up by September 15th!!!!

See you all soon,

Kim, Trina, Cindy and the Chick Pea Family
xoxo

Summer pleasures! Get this Kangol hat for Free!

I used to wonder why parks were such a big deal. Now I know - we are officially a park-loving family and get super excited with new places to find and sprinklers to run through!

This shot is from Rocky Point in Port Moody which has such a great water park and that 'je ne sais quoi' factor. There are always lots of famlies and kids and great vibes there. Our latest favorite is to play ball in the splash zones - all suited up for the occasion of course!

This Kangol hat is so adorable - and you can get it for free if you spend $150 or more on clothing (and just about everything is on sale!!!!). Or, choose another Kangol style you prefer!

Above: Katvig striped bathing suit and Kangol hat!

Happy park hunting!

Kim and Addie

xoxo

Yep, Sophie Catalou is on sale too! Up to 50% off!!!

If you are a Sophie Catalou fan - get down here while we still have sizes in these gorgeous summer dresses! And if you're not yet a fan, this is the best time to try it out and see if you love the line as much as I do.

These get my seal of approval with great colors, unbelievable detailing, and styles that take you from the playground to a fancy dinner out. Leave the velvets home and go for cotton!!!!

Above: Pink ribbed tank with rushing on the back sleeves with olive applique
full skirt (from 6 months to 6 years) and the Marquesa olive and printed lime
tiered dress with pink detailing (from 2 years to 6 years) both on SALE!

Plus, the girls go crazy for the styles, which are girly but definitely not overbearing. Try it out with leggings on rainy days like this one!!!!

Kim

xoxo

Fine Summer Finds

I love a great deal - and July is the perfect time if you're a parent. If you're like me and an immediate gratification person - you can find steals in your current size and wear it out all summer long. And if you're like the people i admire and think forward - you can buy your favorites in a size larger and look forward to wearing it all summer!

I'd love to be that kind of person. Maybe I'll try it. With a little boy arriving in September I have my 0-3 basics tucked away but nothing looking out to next summer. Oh boy. Not sure how i'm going to pull this whole growing family thing off!!!!

Like these little shorty overalls (precious!!!!!) up to 24 month sizes (50% off) or the Ben Sherman zip up (around 40% off) which could also be worn all fall....a great layering piece.

Ah, the joys of summer are many!!!! Even when it rains!

see you soon,

Kim

xoxo

Tickle tickle...time to giggle! It's the Chick Pea Summer SALE!

Time to celebrate the end of school and the beginning of a long, hot, oceanside summer! Our breezy summer dresses, shirts and shorts are all on sale!!!

UP TO 50% OFF some of our favorites including Wonderboy, Picaflor, Katvig and Ben Sherman.

Plus mention you saw this post and receive a FREE Kangol hat when you spend $150 or more on clothing (value up to $44.95)! See you soon!

Kim
xoxo

Somthing new...sewing!

I really didn't think sewing would be super fun but I was pretty disappointed when I started searching for new crib linens and came up short. There are simply not a lot of great designs out there. So i learned how to do a simple sewing project and i think this will end up being a play mat. I filled it up with bamboo batting so it's nice and cushy and natural - and used this printed zoo style fabric to add a little fun to a new little boy's day!!!

Wanted to share the latest projects with you all...maybe I should start looking at some custom blankets or play mats for the store....hmmmm....love your thoughts!

Kim

xoxo

New Summer Hats are Here - Just in time!

New hats! Nothing gets me more excited about summer than the weekend that you finally need to think about a hat. It's the recipe for water parks, ball games, car washing, and lazy pool time - basically your perfect summer!

These new Kangols just arrived and my test team is already coming back with great comments. I can't get the navy gingham cap off Addie - she likes it for the car especially. And the tropic bell hat is a great alternative to a floppy sun hat. There are lots of colors and styles to choose from - drop by anytime!

Kim

xoxo

PS Happy Hyack Days to everying in New West!

Knit Night in June

I am totally re-inspired on knitting these days and it's pictures like this crazy guy skull sweater that heat me up to improve my skill set! So of course I'm knitting a precious little blue sleep sack with ears for the new baby boy. But one day I'll make a skull sweater like this (wouldn't a 2-year old size be amazing!?!).

Here are the details on the next Knit Night if you're interested in getting started!

Monday June 8

6:30-7:30pm Special Projects

7:30-9:30pm Beginners Class

Pre-register for $10

Here's how it works: If you're working on a project (we have two enthusiasts dying to learn how to add the band to the sweater for instance) book to come in at 6:30 for some special attention and more advanced learning. Stay for the evening and get help as you go - our beginners class will join at 7:30 and the whole group will wrap up around 9:30pm. We always have at least 2 teachers to make sure you get the help you need whether you're just learning or tackling a more advanced project.

Everyone gets 10% off any clothing purchases that night - and beginners can tackle either the Striped Hat or the Baby Duvet! Ask about our Knit Kits when you call to register!!!

We have 8 spots and 4 are already filled...so call soon (604 525 2266)!!!

Kim

xoxo

PS If you are already a knitter I'd encourage you to stop in and start a new little project like a mini toddler scarf, a little bedroom pillow, or something big like a cozy blanket during the open portion of the evening!!!

Meet Trina!

Who loves Trina? I do! And I especially love this photo of her. For me Trina naturally embodies everything that I believe Chick Pea is all about - she's full of love, finds pleasure and purpose in helping others, has amazing style, a kind word for everyone, and brings a sense of peace and serenity to those around her. Most of all - she's authentic.

There is nothing made up about her and I think that's why she is such an asset to the store. When she tells you something is fantastic and everyone is raving about it - it's the absolute truth. And if the size you picked is too small, she'll tell you that too.

We are so lucky to have her as our Store Manager and resident stylist. I love the calls at the end of the day when she tells me about a wonderful mom came in - where Trina really went the extra mile and pulled all of the sizes for the kids and played with the babies and chatted about development and really made a friend - and we forget completely to talk about money. That's the best part of owning a store.

So a huge thanks to Trina for jumping in and taking on the post of Store Manager!!! We are all so lucky to have you in our lives!!!

Kim

xoxo

PS She also knows all the best places to eat (and what to order!) on The Drive!!!

Bring Chick Pea Home

Literally! After literally years of special requests and thousands of compliments (thank you!) our furniture is now on sale. All are solid wood. Some with old windows and reclaimed doors. Some true antiques repurposed with a more modern edge. Some battered and bruised to perfection.

Alice in Wonderland Armoire - $695+
Leaded glass door on a beautiful armoire with shelves or a bar for clothing or books and toys. The antique glass knobs and hardware give it special charm.

Secret Garden Hutch - $1295+
These change table hutches are perfect for the nursery with storage below with leaded glass window doors and open shelving above for all the diapering essentials. Made from recycled, antique, and reclaimed woods.

Toady Step Stools - $29+
Little wooden step stools to help our petite little people hop up high!

Drop a line or stop in anytime if you're interested in planning a special piece for your space!

Kim
xoxo

PS Pics of Addie's new 'big girl' bedroom with an antique french style bed coming soon....

Lexi the little charmer

I had to share these little shots of Lexi from our summer photo shoot! Maybe it's the impish grin, or the way she shook her ponies with pride - but this little thing had so much fun i laugh every time i think back to it. She picked out her own outfits and got to model them streetside - what a thrill and such a neat way to build confidence!

Of course I love this apron dress too, it's so precious and practical with the leggings, but it's Lexi's little happy moments that really shine through!

Now only if we could keep our kids this happy all the time....

Belly Jelly and Nappy Ointment is back!

Substance or style? Thankfully with Substance lotions and potions for mom and baby you get both. It's all here - from the much requested belly jelly to the brand new safe sunscreen for babies 6 months and older.

This is a summer must have - definitely test it when you drop in! The whole line is natural, made in Canada, with no parabens, preservatives or other bad stuff. Plus it's loaded with sweet natural ingredients to keep us at our best.

The sunscreen is a physical barrier sunscreen instead of a chemical. It's an invisible formula that goes on white and then blends in - and gives excellent protection for up to 2 hours and is also waterproof. So far our testers are big fans of the scent too.

Try it out or ask Trina or I for more info when you're in the shop!

kim

xoxo

Cielo - Introducing a new Vancouver designer

The concept of the 100-mile diet can apply to just about any part of our life - and Cielo, my favorite new line this season - makes it easy.

We mixed a Japanese vintage cotton print with organic bamboo and cottons to create this devine collection. There are three dresses and a legging to mix and match - and they're perfect with these charcoal Tip Toey Joeys. They are also great value, made in Vancouver, and the collection has a unique west coast flavor.

All in all - we're in love! For girls 1-6.

Kim

xoxo

Huggles and Snuggles

Just arrived from the breeders....these snuggly dogs and bunnies and lambs and monkeys are ready to find new homes! The truffles dogs (above) lie flat - think bear skin rug - and are absolute magnets for little ones. The bashful bunnies (below) and their farm friends are as soft as a long haired chihuahua (not that i'm biased) and will melt your heart.

Drop in for a complimentary snuggle! You won't be able to resist these guys.

kim

xoxo

Puddle Jumps and Spring Crushes

Meet Justin (Justi) the cute boy next door and Addie's first crush. These two jump up and down and scream each others names, sneak through the hedge and knock on each other's back doors, and race their cars around the 'hood - and are not quite 2 yet!

Somehow the his and hers boots really work for these two - puddles and all! And poor Xander was quite the sport keeping an eye on the two of them!

These are some of the colors in the Katvig spring and summer collection - a mix of solids, stripes and apples - in blues, greens, and the red and purple. The spring jacket is a must - zip out lining, reflector strips, and a hood that really works! Addie is actually not in many photos in this shoot because we had a bit of a tantrum when i wanted to take the boots off her....

The summer rompers are adorable for 0-24 months and the dresses, leggings, boys, shirts, tanks, and boxers go from 2-6!

Drop in and feel the quality of this amazing cotton - addie is still wearing pieces from September last year - and not one color has faded or one stripe bled in the wash. These are pieces that look great and last.

Enough from me - have a great weekend everyone!!!

kim

xoxo

Cool plaids and sweet blooms

Mornings are still cold enough to freeze toes and force you back inside, and noon is warm enough that we're stripping off layers and looking for a sunny patch. There is the promise of so much to come.

The Sophie catalou spring dresses (eight styles from 3mo-6yrs) and Ben Sherman shirts and shorts (sizes 2-8) make it easy to layer up in sweet spring style.

Kim

xoxo

PS If time is of the essence or you want a little extra help...sign up for a spring consult with Trina or Kim. We'll pull outfits and ideas in your sizes to peruse - and set up the kids with toys, juice boxes, and a video in our play corner. In fact we can even procure a starbucks to order :)

Spring is in!

Bare toes and bright colors - it must finally be spring! We had an absolute ball with Darcie and Jason from Revival Arts Studio taking pictures of our five little a-lister models this week (including their gorgeous little angel Lexi!).

I even promise to update the website soon! I'm finally in the second trimester...all the moms out there will know exactly what I mean!!!!

Have a wonderful Easter - and drop by to see new Vancouver designer Cielo, sweet Picaflor knit dresses in coral and lilac, pink and green florals from Sophie Catalou, must-have pinstripes from Ben Sherman, and soft wearable linen shirts and trousers from Wonderboy.

See you soon!

Kim

Sale! Extra 25% off all sale items in store...

Although it still feels like winter it's technically spring...and the nice warm rain that makes the daisies grow can't be far away! So we are clearing out space with a special sale - on from now until Easter (assuming there's still a few things left!).

Some of your favorite brands are on sale....including....

- Uggs (sizes 10, 11, and 13)

- Lola and Lucas (organics rompers and leggings/tops)

- Ben Sherman (classic...including button up shirts)

- Small Paul (t shirts and zip ups)

- Kangol (wool hats)

- Dagmar Daley (toddler sweater and sweatshirt)

- Oeuf (the last oeuf baby lounger in brown/creme)

Drop by anytime - we're open 7 days a week. Monday-Saturday 10-5 and Sundays 11-3.

See you soon!

Kim

xoxo

A new look for Dora?

From preschool to middle school....oh my.

With Addie almost at 2 I'm finally becoming part of the "Dora World". I have to admit, that Dora, along with Barney was once on my 'never' ever list but it changed when I realized the educational value of the show. So we are slowly becoming fans.

And now...sexy Dora? I'm not sure I'm ready for this! Sure we dance to Lady Gaga around the house but I'm still undecided on Barbie and now we have to make a call on the 'new' look for Dora that will come out next fall. They're trying to cash in on the tween market by having her grow up - but what does that mean for the preschoolers?

Share your thoughts! What other characters or shows that you think are more appropriate for little ones?

Kim

Check out this article with details about the launch Dora Gets a New Look

It's Baby Time

So I have a little announcement to make - it's officially baby time at Chick Pea - and maybe this will explain why we have brought in so many newborn and baby clothes this spring. I'm expecting in September and am officially 3 months along!

It's so exciting to be here and be having another baby. I have a better sense of what to expect, and all of the things I have yet to learn you are teaching me! I have become a sponge for knowledge on how to manage life with two (or more!) little ankle biters.

And for those of you who already know and love Petit Bateau - it's back! More posts to come, but in the meantime let's get busy making some cute little babies to fit into these little onesies!

With love to all the mamas out there,

Kim

xoxo

Imps & Elfs for our little ones

Julia, the designer and new mom behind Lola & Lucas, came in to see the new Imps & Elfs collection and I loved her story. She is a die hard fan, and mentioned that it was one of the lines that inspired her to create her own company. She searches it out every year on her travels to New York and Europe. I love that we're on the same wave length!

The baby line (3-12 months) is a mix and match collection of the softest cottons and natural fibres you'll find. The fact that it's organic doesn't hurt, and responsibly made is even better. The best part though is that with a few pieces you can create a whole little look that's soft and practical for baby - and simply mouthwatering for all of us parents admiring your little one! It's also a great item for registry as we have lots of sizes right now, and this line translates beautifully into spring and summer.

Call with any questions or for size information - these are just a few of the pieces - ranging from 14.99 up to 74.99 for the special little wool pieces.

See you soon!

Kim

xoxo

Spring for Layers

Layering is a great way to pull our kids clothes through several seasons. Mix in a few new pieces and you've got something fresh and fun. I was inspired today after a little walk along the river, and came back and played with some of the ways you could put it together. We have some great pieces on sale (up to 50% off) and spring arrivals to mix in.

For the boys - Joe's Jeans (sale $89.95), Ben Sherman T (sale $19.95), organic velour zip up (sale $34.95) and striped Kangol hat (34.95).

For the girls: New spring Imps & Elfs organic sweater ($74.95), striped long sleeve ($39.95), legging ($29.95) and skirt ($64.95). These are some great colors - bright but not too shocking - that are perfect mixed up with basics! I couldn't resist showing the new pieces together but they look fantastic with the Dagmar Daley chunky grey sweater and Lola & Lucas leggings.

So - have fun this spring - and look around for inspiration and things that make you happy. For me it's little things like the perfect shafe of cupcake frosting, a hair band or hat in a great fabric, or a clean floor with no dog hair!!!!!

Have a great week everyone -

Kim

xoxo

Hi everyone. Sorry for the long delay in blog posting! I love writing, and sharing ideas, and chatting about our kids, and great new stuff, and hearing your comments - I miss it! - but it has been a challenging time personally and I have been focusing inwards to get through this stretch.

I was really sad when Sarah decided to leave Chick Pea so suddenly last year. I love her dearly and wish her well in all her future endeavors - and cherish the time we did get to work together.

I'm now solo and excited to set a course for growth at the shop, keeping the same spirit and heart that has defined Chick Pea and made it such a special haven. There's nothing better than a new mom chatting away about her new little one, excited grandmas and nanas finding the perfect little gift, and sharing in the growth and development of all our families.

So - I want to send out a huge welcome to everyone and encourage you to drop in to see some of the great new (and favorite!) lines in the store this spring. Trina Schoenit and her mom Cindy have become a huge part of the shop, and I want to congratulate Trina in taking on a role as Store Manager this last week. She has such a warm and loving spirit - and a sense for style that I adore - if you haven't met her already! Trina is in Thursday-Saturday and Cindy is here on Mondays and Wednesdays. I'm in the store on Tuesdays.

We look forward to seeing you!!!

Kim

xoxo

PS I'll be blogging regularly with all the new lines coming in so check back soon!!!

A Perfect Little Hat

It's been three weeks of snow snow snow and so I have to say I'm glad we had a couple of extra warm hats for all of the sledding and general mucking about that's beeing going on. This is a variation on our little stripe hat - beginners knitting class - and it's definitely a favorite with Addie. This is a great way to use up some extra yarn and an excellent pattern to let your creativity loose on!

We have a beginners knitting hat class, a little stripe sweater class, and a baby duvet class all coming up in January. Send me a note and reserve a spot! (Class fee is $10).

See you soon,

kim
xoxo