zulily

What to Get Dad

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:55:00 -0700

With Father’s Day just around the corner, we know you’ll be looking for a way to express to express your love for him. Whether shopping for something to give your dad, granddad, children’s dad or a dad-to-be, it can be tricky coming up with a gift that’s unique, special and will make them feel appreciated. That’s why we’ve already done the searching so you can tackle the task with ease. We’ve highlighted a few of our faves for starters here:

Retro Turntable. Let Dad relive the hippest sounds of his past while converting groovy record albums to digital files with this vintage-looking turntable. All he needs is a USB cable and a computer to run the supplied software and presto—those rockin’ record tunes have now entered the digital realm!

Photo Negative Converter. Help him transform stacks of 4x6 photographs and 35 mm film into digitals files in seconds with this easy-to-use device.

Tees to talk about. Whether it’s a witty “Real Men Change Diapers” or “World’s Greatest Step Dad”, a nifty tee celebrates dadhood in a wearable fashion. Dads-to-be and grandpas can sport their status too with a commemorative piece from this collection.

Visionaire Podpal in black or silver. The perfect dadget—gadget for a dad—when he travels. This suitcase can dock an iPad on top of it plus still serve as a carry-on item for domestic and European flights. How’s that for a tech travel bag?

Leather iPad holder (also available in black). Keep Dad’s iPad protected tucked into the plush case of a premier leather holder. Thanks to the cool foldout kickstand, it holds up the iPad so it’s easier to use, while the corner straps hold it in place. Special cutouts enable him to plug it in for charging. Alternatively, tuck his nook or kindle into the nifty i-Pouch (also available in black and can hold the iPad too). A separate rear pocket keeps cables and power cords at hand without scratching the screen.

Need more ideas? Browse our Father’s Day-themed events today for selections from sports-themed items to accessories and footwear.

Talking with Authors: Children’s Book Week

Mon, 13 May 2013 23:58:00 -0700

Children’s Book Week is the longest running literacy celebration in the nation! We at zulily are happy to participate by gathering together a new selection of books each day this week, focused on different age groups.

To celebrate, zulily sat down with authors Kim Baker and Terra Lynn Childs, and illustrator Sara Anderson to talk about how they got their start in the literary world and the importance of reading with children.

zulily: What inspired you to become an author/illustrator?

Kim Baker: I’ve wanted to be a writer since I was a little girl! I loved books and reading so much. I would write stories for fun, submit poems to the local newspaper’s contest, and I had a notebook to write down observations about neighbors and local events à la Harriet the Spy. I read every chance I got, and even made a deal with the school librarian to help shelve books and dust in the library in exchange for recommendations and having it all to myself. My parents were always really supportive of my writing and reading, and I spent my formative years in libraries, comic shops, and bookstores. Some of my best, most vivid, early memories are of reading.

Tera Lynn Childs: My path to writing was a winding one. Growing up I was always into math and science and I thought I hated reading. After getting degrees in Theatre and Historic Preservation, I found myself basically housesitting for my parents in the country while they traveled for work. It was during all this alone time that I first found my love of reading. I would head to the bookstore and bring home a stack of romance novels every week and just devour them. It was this late-blooming passion for reading that eventually led me to think about writing my own stories.

Sara Anderson: Ever since I was very little, when people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up I always said “an artist” (if only I had known)! I studied art all of my life - drawing, painting, printmaking, and graphic arts. By the time I looked to pursue children’s books, I was already a designer and working as an illustrator. I compiled all of my story ideas with characters I had created and at the first meeting they okayed 7 book ideas! I started with NUMBERS, they added COLORS, and 3 years later they were books. The author part happened because I worked so fast, there wasn’t time to find and get a writer on board, so it turned out I had to do it, myself. Now I really like playing with words, trying to make them into magic groupings.

zulily: Why is it important for young people to read/ to read to kids?

Kim Baker: Reading gives us a window on the world. We can gain understanding of situations and settings that we would otherwise never have access to. Even stories that are seemingly silly or fantastical can help kids learn about solving problems, friendship, loyalty, and coping with issues, It’s important to read with kids and to allow them to make their own choices, book-wise. We never “make” our kids read anything, but we encourage them to mix it up and try new things. The tendency at this age can be to reread something familiar rather than try something new, but there’s always a new favorite just waiting on the shelf.

Tera Lynn Childs: Reading is a gateway to so much of life. Whether it’s succeeding in school, getting a good job, or just escaping to another life through a book, reading is a fundamental part of our society. And if we want to raise readers, we have to offer them stories they actually want to read. I hated reading as a teen because I hated most of the books we had to read for school. As Walt Disney once said, “I would rather entertain and hope that people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained.”

Sara Anderson: Reading opens worlds and sets the imagination to dream and run wild. As a child you can be anything and do anything, in stories. It allows freedom that children might need from their real world constraints (i.e. like being able to fly).

zulily: How do you incorporate reading together into a busy family routine?

Kim Baker: It can be tricky, but I think a lot of it is about making choices and setting routines. My son will ask if he can bring his iPod to play games in the car while we’re driving around town, and nine times out of ten I’ll tell him to grab a book instead. Their dad and I take turns reading to each of them at bedtime. It’s a great way to connect and wind down after a busy day. If there’s an issue at school, a bully, a deployed parent, a new kid in class with some different limitations, picking a book that deals with those issues is a great way to gain perspective. Plus, I get to share my favorites! Laughing our way through Judy Blume’s Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a memory that I’ll hold dear forever.

Sara Anderson: I like bedtime reading because it brings the day to an end in a nice wind-down kind of way (and prolongs having to go to sleep). When a parent is reading, it’s the child’s time to absorb attention being intently on them through storytelling. It can be intimate and relays the message that engagement matters. Doing it at night allows for the entering of other worlds and opens the mind of dreams. Magic.

About Kim Baker

Kim Baker’s debut middle grade novel, PICKLE, is a Junior Library Guild Selection, one of the New York Public Library’s 2012 Best Books for Reading and Sharing, the 2013 Crystal Kite West Winner, and a finalist for the 2013 Children’s Choice Awards, Book of the Year for 5th-6th grade. Kim’s second grade teacher said she’d be a writer someday, and by the time Kim figured out that her teacher probably told everyone that, her heart was set. She lives in Seattle with her family and a few furry creatures, where she is working on her next book. You can see more at www.kimbakerbooks.com

About Tera Lynn Childs

Tera Lynn Childs is the award-winning young adult author of the mythology-based Oh. My. Gods. and Goddess Boot Camp, the mermaid tales Forgive My Fins, Fins Are Forever and Just For Fins, and a thrilling trilogy about monster-hunting descendants of Medusa that includes Sweet Venom, Sweet Shadows, and Sweet Legacy (September 3, 2013). She has epublished two fun chick lit romances, Eye Candy and Straight Stalk, and has two e-novellas coming soon from HarperCollins. Tera lives nowhere in particular and spends her time writing wherever she can find a comfy chair and a steady stream of caffeinated beverages. See more on her website here: teralynnchilds.com.

About Sara Anderson

After spending years and years drawing and painting, making quilts, doing textile design, paper collage, weaving, and designing products for children and adults in a studio much bigger than her house, Sara has settled into storytelling as the one thread that encompasses all the other strands of her life and makes a tapestry of disparate experiences, selves, travels, lives, and talents. She has been getting her “Ph.D” in the narrative for the past dozen years or so.

My mom is awesome! Make your own sign: www.zulily.com/mymomis ...

Thu, 09 May 2013 16:11:42 -0700

My mom is awesome! Make your own sign: www.zulily.com/mymomis #mymomis #zulily

Happy Mother’s Day! Print your sign:...

Thu, 09 May 2013 15:30:48 -0700

Happy Mother’s Day! Print your sign: www.zulily.com/mymomis #mymomis #zulily

Racks and racks of cuteness! #zulily #zulilycutie

Thu, 02 May 2013 13:54:48 -0700

Racks and racks of cuteness! #zulily #zulilycutie

Filling our daily tutu quota. #zulily #zulilycutie

Thu, 02 May 2013 13:47:41 -0700

Filling our daily tutu quota. #zulily #zulilycutie

#mymomis amazing! Celebrate Mother's Day with us.

Thu, 02 May 2013 12:58:00 -0700

Here at zulily, we know moms are amazing. Incredible. Absolutely splendiferous. Moms are superheroes! But what’s the one word you’d use to describe your mom? What’s the one word your kids would use to describe you?

This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating all that moms are with something called my mom is. It’s a chance for each of us (kids and grown-ups!) to express that one unique thing that makes our own mom extra-special.

Will you be part of our celebration? View and print the my mom is sign right here, then snap photos to share on Instagram anytime from now ‘til the big day on Sunday, May 12. Make sure to follow @zulily and use the #mymomis tag.

If you don’t use Instagram, you can email us photos at mymomis@zulily.com. Plus, you can always share photos with us on our Facebook page (or post to your own wall and tag @zulily so we see it!). We’ll be celebrating on Twitter as well. Make sure to use the #mymomis hashtag.

Here’s a little inspiration straight from the zulily studio.

Legal details about sending photos

When you send zulily any photos, you are certifying that you own all relevant rights in the work, that you consider the photo non-confidential and non-proprietary, and that the photo does not and will not infringe the intellectual property or other rights of any third party, including, without limitation, any third party patents, copyrights, or trademarks, or any right of publicity or privacy. Additionally, by sending us your photo, you grant and assign to zulily a perpetual, nonexclusive, world-wide, royalty free, sub-licenseable license to the photo for zulily or any third party zulily designates to use, copy, transmit, excerpt, publish, distribute, publicly display or perform, create derivative works of, host, index, cache, tag, encode, modify, and adapt (including without limitation the right to adapt to streaming, downloading, broadcast, mobile, digital, thumbnail, scanning, or other technologies) the photo in any form or media now known or hereafter developed, and to otherwise use your User Content for related online and offline promotional uses.

#zulilytoddler Twitter Chat tomorrow!

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:19:08 -0700

Parenting coach Rachel Sklar (@ViaParenting), zulily (@zulily) baby gear buyer Debbie Licolli and HLN’s Raising America host Kyra Phillips (@KyraHLN) are joining forces for a toddler-themed Twitter Chat tomorrow!

On April 23 from 1-2 p.m. EST, meet zulily and the rest of the expert panel over on Twitter to celebrate the zulily sale of Sklar’s parenting CD, Rock Your Inner Mama. Sklar and Phillips will be dishing on all things toddler and zulily buyer Debbie will share her favorite toddler gear and products. What are your child’s biggest strengths? Which of your values are most essential to your parenting? They’ll be discussing all that and more!

To make things extra sweet, we’re giving away one $50 zulily gift card to a lucky participant chosen at random. (Offer open only to first-time winners.) Be sure to add the Chat hashtag #zulilytoddler to follow along and get your voice heard.

The ‘Welcome Baby’ event runs from April 23 at 6 a.m. to April 26 at 6 a.m. on zulily.com. Rachel’s CDs will be sold in the ‘Welcome Baby: Maternity, Baby Gear & Toys’ event. There will also be a ‘Welcome Baby Boy: Apparel & Accessories’ event and a ‘Welcome Baby Girl: Apparel & Accessories’ event running during the same time.

About Rachel Sklar:

Among her many accomplishments, Certified Parent Coach and mother of three Rachel Sklar has worked in foster care, adoption and donor insemination and received an award from the National Association of Social Workers. Rock Your Inner Mama, Sklar’s parenting CD, encourages parents to view her technique as a “mental yoga workout.”

About Kyra Phillips

Award-winning journalist Kyra Phillips has covered everything from elections and 9/11 to Hurricane Katrina and racial tensions in Louisiana. She currently serves as anchor on HLN’s daytime interactive talk show Raising America, which discusses major news from a parent’s perspective.

About Debbie Licolli

Debbie Licolli has been on board with zulily for two years. Her goal is to find the stylish yet functional gear for mommies and their little ones.

If you’re new to Twitter or still learning the ropes, we’ve laid out a step-by-step guide to participating in a Twitter Chat below.

So, what exactly is a Twitter Chat?
A Twitter chat is a public discussion—with “tweeters” from all over the world—based on a common topic of interest.

Why a Twitter Chat?
Twitter has become the go-to forum for moms worldwide to discuss every topic imaginable. Twitter is a big place, though, and our #zulilyNurseryStyle chat will be a great way to share ideas about style on a smaller scale.

How can I follow the discussion?
At first glance, Twitter can seem like a chaotic place for a discussion. Fortunately, some simple tools have been created to help organize the many tweets generated every day.

While the @zulily Twitter Chat promises to be fast paced, the Twitter “#hashtag” feature allows followers to more easily keep up with and participate in the discussion.

Each follower participating in the Chat will include a unique hashtag (#) in each tweet. For our Chat, we will be using #zulilyNurseryStyle. This will help readers following the Twitter Chat to separate ours from other discussions taking place on Twitter.

To more easily follow and participate in the discussion, we recommend using a Twitter monitoring app. We’ve added a few of our favorites below. They’re free to use and will allow you to view any tweet that includes the right # (hashtag).

New to Twitter? Follow these simple steps to sign up and join the discussion:

1. Visit twitter.com to sign up for an account and pick a unique Twitter “handle” (Handle = what comes after the @ symbol)

2. Follow @zulily @ViaParenting @KyraHLN

3. Visit one of our recommended Twitter monitoring tools. We’ll use tweetchat.com as an example.

· Once you’ve arrived at TweetChat click ‘Sign In’ and allow Twitter to authorize the TweetChat app.

· In the field that reads “Enter hashtag to follow,” input zulilytoddler (all one word)

· Join the chat! Tweet us a question or comment, or simply introduce yourself! We’ll make sure to say hello! Be sure to include the @ symbol to direct your tweet at the right user. Here’s an example:

“@zulily excited to be here! #zulilytoddler”

A few of our favorite websites for monitoring Twitter:

· TweetChat http://tweetchat.com/,

· TweetGrid http://tweetgrid.com/

· Monitter http://monitter.com

· Hootsuite http://hootsuite.com

We’ll be reading and responding to your tweets in real time, so if you have a question, just tweet @zulily!

We want to see your #zulilycutie!

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:45:00 -0700

Where can I send you photos of cute zulily clothes in action?

We’d love to see them! Share your photo with us on Instagram. Make sure you follow @zulily and use these two tags:

#zulilycutie

@zulily

What if I don’t have Instagram?

You can always share photos with us on our Facebook page or on Twitter as well. Make sure to use the #zulilycutie hashtag. Or, email us at submissions@zulily.com.

What kind of photo can I send?

We want to see your family’s zulily style. What’s your favorite zulily outfit? Have any zulily décor brightening a room? New toy or book your little one is loving? Please only send photos that you own and that feature yourself and your kids.

What are you going to do with the photo?

We love to share photos of zulily cuties, so you might see your photo on one of our social pages (including Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter) or in an upcoming zulily promotion!

Will my kid’s personal details be made public?

We want to give your cutie the spotlight! If you provide a first name and city, we might include them when we share photos. Remember, we only have access to the information you offer. We’ll never share last names or contact information.

Can I still use the photo in my Facebook/Instagram/etc?

Yes!

Legal details

National Autism Awareness Month

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 15:39:00 -0700

We continue to look for ways to share valuable information with our members. April is National Autism Month so we thought we’d bring you some information from an autism expert. Educational Insights connected zulily with Terri Chew Nishimura, CEO of the Pediatric Therapy Network, to talk about the history of the month and the need for education about autism.

zulily: What is National Autism Awareness Month?

TCN: In order to highlight the growing need, awareness and acceptance about autism, April has been designated as “Autism Awareness Month” in the United States. The purpose is to shed light on the need to help improve the lives of children and adults who have autism, so they can lead full and meaningful lives. Due to concerns by the prevalence of the high rate of autism in children in all regions of the world, the United Nations in 2007 sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day to be held every April 2nd. According to the General Assembly, autism “posed challenges to long term health care, education, and training and intervention programs and has a tremendous impact on children, their families, communities and societies”. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now estimates that 1 in 50 school aged children may have the disorder.

zulily: What do you think are the most important things for people to know about austism?

TCN: It is important for people to be educated and informed on autism and to know that early identification and intervention are critical to improve the outcomes for children with ASD.

What is autism? Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a broad group of developmental brain disorders which can cause significant communication, social, motor, sensory and behavioral challenges that typically appear during the first three years of life. ASD is a spectrum disorder which means that it affects each person in different ways and can range from mild to severe. With the rate of 1 in 50, nearly everyone knows someone with ASD.

It is important to know the early signs of autism because early identification and early intervention can make a difference. Research shows that early intervention can greatly improve a child’s development. The brain develops the most in its early years and therapy programs can make positive changes in the brain’s structure and have a very profound lifelong influence. Early intervention from birth to three can help a child learn important developmental skills that can carry on throughout life. There are many different types of treatments available for individuals with ASD. If you are concerned, contact your child’s doctor or get a referral to a specialist such as developmental pediatricians, child neurologists, child psychologists or psychiatrists or pediatric occupational, physical or speech therapists. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends autism screening for all children between 18 and 24 months. Find out more about the “Early Signs” at Autism Speaks.

zulily: Why should the community participate in National Autism Awareness Month? And how can they participate?

TCN: Autism Awareness Month allows the community an opportunity to learn, inform, celebrate, honor, advocate and share. There are many different ways to participate in National Autism Awareness Month:

Educate yourself on current information or research on autism and share your knowledge with those around you.

Advocate by contacting your local, state and federal representatives on legislative issues

Support or volunteer at organizations that advocate, research or provide services for individuals with ASD

Attend an event in your community. This year, Major League Baseball is teaming up with Autism Speaks in a league wide effort to recognize Autism Awareness Month.

Honor individuals with autism or their families by embracing them as part of your community.

zulily: How does the puzzle piece symbol reflect National Autism Awareness Month?

TCN: The Autism Awareness Puzzle Ribbon is the most recognized symbol of the autism community in the world. The puzzle pattern reflects the complexity of ASD and the different colors and shapes represent the diversity of the people living with the disorder. The brightness of the ribbon represents hope that through awareness, research and effective treatment and services, people with autism will lead fuller and more complete lives.

Facts and Statistics from the Autism Society and Autism Speaks:

1 percent of the population of children in the US ages 3-17 have ASD

Every 11 minutes a child is born who will soon be diagnosed with ASD

1 to 1.5 million Americans live with ASD

ASD is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.

Cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention

Boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have autism

There is no medical detection or cure for autism

zulily: Can you speak to the importance of developing products for the special needs population?

TCN: Through play children learn skills that contribute to their physical, cognitive, social, language and emotional development. Play is fun, spontaneous and universal. Play is needed for the healthy development of children. Research shows that the majority of brain development occurs after birth and is influenced by early sensory, motor, and social experiences. According to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, “the emotional and physical health, social skills, and cognitive-linguistic capacities that emerge in the early years are all important prerequisites for success in school and later in the workplace and community.” In addition, play activities are important for the entire family and help develop strong family bonds. Through the interaction of toys and play, young children can learn about classification, imagination, logic, memory and concentration, independence, functional spontaneous communication, social competence and generalization of skills. Children with ASD can have unique needs and may benefit from toys or other products that provide play experiences that include movement, auditory, tactile, visual, language, creativity, fine and gross motor skills, social skills, creativity and cognitive skills to enhance their development.

In honor of special-needs kids everywhere, zulily assembled a hand-selected collection of items especially for them. From clothing and toys to mugs and books for readers of all ages, the items in this darling event help us celebrate the differences that make all children unique and special: http://zuli.ly/15aQdev.

About Terri Chew Nishimura

Terri Chew Nishimura is one of the founding directors of Pediatric Therapy Network where she worked to build a premiere nonprofit early child development and therapy center committed to providing quality services for children with special needs and for those at risk for developmental issues. Terri has been a licensed occupational therapist since 1983 with a specialty in sensory integration. She has her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California and a bachelor’s degree in Human Development from the University of California at Davis. She was a clinical faculty member at the University of Southern California, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy from 1989 to 2008.

About the Pediatric Therapy Network

Pediatric Therapy Network (PTN), a nonprofit early child development and therapy center, was founded in 1996 by therapists, teachers and parents who envisioned an organization that would provide the community with high quality therapy, research, innovative programs and education as it relates to fostering the best possible outcomes for children with special needs and for those at risk for developmental issues. PTN sees thousands of children throughout Los Angeles County at our center in Torrance providing Early Head Start, early intervention, occupational, physical and speech therapies, social skills, and summer camp programs. In addition, PTN provides support and training to more than 5,000 families and professionals locally and internationally. PTN is affiliated with the University of Southern California, Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy and offers a world-renowned intensive graduate training program in sensory integration, originated by occupational therapist pioneer, Dr. A. Jean Ayres. PTN collaborates with many organizations and businesses such as Educational Insights and Western Psychological Services on innovative products and services. You can find out more about PTN at www.pediatrictherapynetwork.org

Resources:

American Academy of Pediatrics (www.healthychildren.org)

American Occupational Therapy Association (www.aota.org)

American Physical Therapy Association (www.apta.org)

American Speech-Language Hearing Association (www.asha.org)

Autism Society (www.autism-society.org)

Autism Speaks (www.autismspeaks.org)

Center on the Developing Child Harvard University (www.developingchild.harvard.edu)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/facts.html

US Department of Health & Human Services (www.hhs.gov/autism/)

Go barefoot! One Day Without Shoes 2013

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 15:39:00 -0700

Join TOMS and people around the world for One Day Without Shoes 2013. Go barefoot Tuesday, April 16th, and help bring global awareness to children’s health and education.

Why take off your shoes? Access to footwear plays an important role in improving children’s health and education. Shoes can complete a uniform required for school attendance and protect little feet from danger and infection. By participating, you’re starting a conversation that can help bring awareness and change. We’re very excited to join TOMS this year, and hope you will too!

For more information about One Day Without Shoes, visit OneDayWithoutShoes.com.

See who else is excited:

“Mario and I are proud to help support zulily’s participation of Tom’s ‘One Day Without Shoes’ campaign! We just ordered a pair of Tom’s, and love knowing that about pair is being given to a child in need at the same time!” -Courtney Lopez

“I love zulily.com as a great place to find fun goodies for my girls, and I’m especially happy to learn about their participation in Tom’s “One Day Without Shoes” campaign to help draw awareness to children’s health and education” -Shonda Rhimes

Healthy Chocolate "Milkshake" from the Yummy Mummy

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:35:00 -0700

We have a special treat for you – the secret to a healthy chocolate “milkshake!” Marina Delio, mother of two, blogger at The Yummy Mummy Kitchen and author of a new book of the same title, has shared the perfect recipe for moms who want to get some extra nutrients into their kids’ diets.

Be sure to check out our Fun Family Cooking Books event which launched this morning 4/9 to get Marina’s new book, “The Yummy Mummy Kitchen” for more deceptively simple and delicious recipes.

The Healthy Chocolate “Milkshake” from The Yummy Mummy:

Often in the mornings I’m scrambling to get my 3 and 5 year old girls dressed for preschool, lunch boxes packed, and all of us out of the house on time. One of my favorite super-fast ways to get my girls to eat a healthy breakfast is to make a big smoothie for all of us to share. My kids’ favorite smoothie is what they call a “chocolate milkshake.” It does taste just like a decadent chocolate shake, but what the kids don’t know is that it’s packed with baby greens that are virtually flavorless and oats that add creamy thickness. Cocoa powder and milk completely mask any taste or color that would give away the secret greens inside. This shake is almost sugar-free and packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s hard to believe, but I promise this tastes just like a delicious sugar-filled chocolate milkshake.

Healthy Chocolate “Milkshake”

Makes 2 (1.5 cup) smoothies

3/4 cup milk (unsweetened vanilla almond milk preferred)
2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional)
1/3 cup oats
1 1/2 cups loosely packed baby kale or spinach
1 medium banana, sliced and frozen
1 teaspoon stevia powder (or favorite sweetener to taste, such as agave or maple syrup)
1-2 cups ice
1 teaspoon chocolate syrup, for garnish

Pour milk into a blender. Add the rest of the ingredients except chocolate syrup. Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and top with a little chocolate syrup. Serve immediately.

Stop! In the name of love! #zulilycutie

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 21:01:16 -0700

Stop! In the name of love! #zulilycutie

Photo of the day! #zulilycutie

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:47:27 -0700

Photo of the day! #zulilycutie

Photo of the day! Send pics of your cutie to @zulily....

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:23:07 -0700

Photo of the day! Send pics of your cutie to @zulily. #zulilycutie

#zulilynurserystyle Recap

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:54:48 -0700

Did you miss the #zulilyNurseryStyle Twitter Chat last week? Well today we’ve got highlights from the online Q&A, plus host and nursery bedding designer Jenny McCarthy’s fashion tips for you!

What was your inspiration for the Too Good nursery line?

@JennyMcCarthy: The inspiration was to make great, safe, fashionable bedding that all mothers could afford

Q1: What are some creative accents to add in a nursery?

‏@JennyMcCarthy: Wall art is fun! But less is more. The focus on my bedding is on the bedding. It’s not good to clutter a room. The butterfly bedding is another one of my favorites!

‏@Clarissa_Laskey: some creative nursery accents are murals (stick on or hand-painted), esp. with a pretty tree! I also love writing my kids names in the snow & sand and framing photos of that for their rooms.

@HollywoodHotMom: fun lamp shades

@PhyliciaSP: I love fun bedding It always makes the nursery. Wall art, mounted bookshelves

‏@vanrobmac: Ruffles and flowers for my girl :)

@Butterflybab: Decorated with a butterfly mobile

Q2: What are some fun ways to decorate a girl’s room?

‏@JennyMcCarthy: Rug accents and decor blankets because they’re both cute and useful.

@mellanhead: Butterflies, pinks and browns like a plaid. we did monkeys, my mom made the blankets and crib skirt.

‏@Clarissa_Laskey: I love a beautiful, but simple chandelier. I also love a canopy over a little girl’s crib/bed. I also love a simple chair with your little girl’s name or monogram on it. [Another] fun way to decorate a little girl’s room is do a tree or something similar with her little handprints as leaves.

‏@vanrobmac: Mine is animal safari with lots of zebra! And I made some big tissue pom poms for the ceiling

@PhyliciaSP: I don’t want alot of pink but if I have a girl I’d love a cute pastel theme. My sister had a ladybug theme — red black and white so my niece could grow with it and not look like a nursery anymore

@S_thirtymommy: Mirrors everywhere :)

@martiferg: my girls share a room & it’s the princess theme!

Q3: What are some ways to get the most out of a small nursery?

@HollywoodHotMom: maximize space! Lots of storage against the wall

‏@mellanhead: add rolling drawers under crib, use top of dresser changing, shelves on the wall. my daughter’s room is small so we used book cases for items and storage under crib

@PhyliciaSP: Shelving! We found cute shelving squares to put keepsakes in and another shelve for wooden letters. And we love our stuffed animal net that’s in the corner of my sons room. Out of the way and looks cute.

‏@Butterflybab: Be organized-get an under the crib storage bin for blankets, clothes, or diapers. skip the diaper changing table and get a good dresser, then put a pad on that

@Clarissa_Laskey: buy a convertible crib and lots of fun storage bins in neutral colors that can grow with your baby. And a bench style toy box that is functional for storage, but also offers storage is great for a small nursery.

@S_thirtymommy: Multifunctional pieces & utilize wall space

@vanrobmac: I have two shelves under my changing table, I have 6 baskets there to organize diapers, wipes etc!

‏@bybreenah: We have the dresser in the closet

@martiferg: look for multipurpose furniture. That’s what we did.

Q4: Fun ways to decorate a boy’s room?

‏@mellanhead: sports, zoo, blue/greens, animals. we did tigers for sons room

@martiferg: we are doing a safari theme for lil guy’s nursery

@S_thirtymommy: lots of animals: lions, tigers, dinosaurs, monkeys, hippos, giraffes

@vanrobmac: I love sports themes — baseball and basketball! I’ve done zoo them with all my kids, just changed a few colors for the boys and girls

@PhyliciaSP: I love browns and greens. My son has a zoo room. light green wall paint. Many giraffes that used to be mine

‏@Clarissa_Laskey: his name spelled out with different sports items. Fun to do and creative! Or a homemade mobile with pictures of family on it for a little boys to familiarize him & make him smile.

‏@Butterflybab: firefighter theme, zoo animals, under the sea theme, cars, farm animals & tractors, monkeys

@Bodinesteph: Our theme is baby elephants!!!

@JennyMcCarthy: If the elephants’ trunks are up, it’s good luck!

Q5: Where do you start with the decorating process for a nursery?

@JennyMcCarthy: It starts with picking a theme and then picking the pantones of the color way. When the colors and art are agreed on, then we pick the materials. It all comes together to make great bedding!

‏@Butterflybab: The wall color and the crib

@PhyliciaSP: Wall paint color and crib color. Gotta start somewhere :)

‏@vanrobmac: I look at idea online… Pinterest is awesome for this! For my girl, I looked through what I already had from her brothers and added girlish touches to it

@Bodinesteph: As soon as I find out the gender I start looking for bedding and room decor!

@martiferg: usually I wait until we find the gender of the baby. Still so much to do here before due date next mo.

@Clarissa_Laskey: I start with a color scheme. Wall paint!

@S_thirtymommy: In my head…I chose a gender neutral them and once the baby came added some personalized touches

@KokoLoco911: Colors & fabrics

Q6: How can you customize your nursery for each child? Do you start over each time? Or do you reuse items?

‏@JennyMcCarthy: People tend to reuse bedding if they have the same sex

@HollywoodHotMom: it depends on age difference. But try to create something unique for their personality

‏@martiferg: for the girls it was the same. Reusing what I can but have to redo from girl to boy

‏@PhyliciaSP: we’re a military family so we’ve moved since my son had his nursery. Fresh start for us!

‏@mellanhead: Do a different theme, or add colors for each child

‏@Bodinesteph: I love to start over and give each child there own theme!

@S_thirtymommy: Definitely reuse and recycle but add personalization to make it mor personal for each child

‏@mellanhead: reuse bedding but add different color to walls and decals

@vanrobmac: First two boys pretty much had the same. First girl, a lot different but some of the same gender-neutral stuff

Q7: What should be the focal point in a nursery?

@JennyMcCarthy: Your child!!! And then of course having great bedding helps!

‏@HollywoodHotMom: the focus point is the baby :) but find one item you love make that it! Like bedding :)

@PhyliciaSP: bedding sets!! Rooms revolve around them. I feel bad I didn’t say baby first haha. I just love baby bedding!

@Butterflybab: The baby! Then the crib & bedding

‏@vanrobmac: The bedding!

‏@mellanhead: the crib and the bedding in it

@martiferg: my baby lol

@S_thirtymommy: Pictures & artwork

@Clarissa_Laskey: the crib. It’s the main piece in a nursery. The bedding shows off the crib and sets the tone for the room style

Q8: What are your favorite accessories for naptime?

@JennyMcCarthy: A blankie and a baby monitor!

‏@mellanhead: A great chair to rock them and aden & anais swaddling blankets!

‏@vanrobmac: For the baby I love swaddle wraps! And a binkie and glider!

‏@S_thirtymommy: Blankets and a favorite stuffed animal to snuggle

@KaratewithaZ: a warm blanket and a glider rocker

‏@martiferg: great crib, blankets, and glider for snuggling & rocking

@Bodinesteph: A soft blankie and her favorite elephant mobile that she stares at until she falls asleep!

@PhyliciaSP: a great monitor and receiving blankets. Swaddling always!

Bonus Question! @JennyMcCarthy: Hey mommies. What are your favorite colors to use in your nursery?

‏@vanrobmac: Bright green and yellow. black and white zebra print, too…super cute for girl. I also love brown and pink together! And hot pink accents!

@Butterflybab: calming colors

@S_thirtymommy: I love using bright greens

‏@PhyliciaSP: pastels!! With dark brown furniture

@TheDSC: I’d say green BEST all-around. Then maybe earth tones like blue, light browns, pastel orange/yellow

@Clarissa_Laskey: colors that work well together. Pastel pink, mint green, sky blue, tan.

Reader Questions

@LilRedCM: What’s your favorite spring nursery must have for expecting Moms?

‏@JennyMcCarthy: My new Too Good by Jenny muslin wraps. They’re amazing!

@zulily: anything with bright colors to keep the season alive!

—

@TheMomsPlace: what is your best selling design?

@JennyMcCarthy: Our reversible patterns. A-Z, Zoo Zoo, Flutter – twice the fashion for the price of one!

—

@MoniquePeltz: What’s a good rule of thumb when buying a nursery gift & don’t know the sex of the baby?

@JennyMcCarthy: The colors sage and cream make for great neutral gifts. They go with everything!

@zulily: Something neutral - we like zoo themes. The Too Good muslin wraps are great too!

—

@TheMomsPlace: what accessories do you sell to go with the bedding?

@JennyMcCarthy: Musical mobile, window valances, muslin wraps, and extra crib sheets!

—

@Collstoetz: I’m wondering if the bedding will shrink?

@JennyMcCarthy: Our 100% cotton bedding is pre-washed, so it has minimal shrinkage!

—

@LilRedCM: What are you designing next for your line?

@JennyMcCarthy: We see more traditional lines with a splash of fun trending right now.

—

@makeupbyjulie: What is the best unisex theme you sell?

@JennyMcCarthy: I love the A-Z bedding as a unisex bedding because the bumpers and bedding are reversible!

Photo of the day! #zulily #zulilycutie

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:56:13 -0700

Photo of the day! #zulily #zulilycutie

#zulily photo if the day! #zulilycutie

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:12:59 -0700

#zulily photo if the day! #zulilycutie

#zulilyNurseryStyle Twitter Chat

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:51:15 -0700

Jenny McCarthy wears many hats – from TV host and comedic actress to autism research activist and mother – but in her latest role, she’s channeled her talents into a successful line of nursery bedding, Too Good. zulily is collaborating with Jenny for a sale, beginning tomorrow, March 15, and to celebrate, we’re throwing a nursery-themed Twitter Chat this Friday! Joining her for the live Q&A will be zulily Home Buyer Alex Kanter and Hollywood Hot Mom co-founder Natalie Klein. And once again, one lucky Chat participant will win a $50 zulily gift card to use towards a zulily purchase! (Past winners not included in drawing.)

The Chat is taking place on Twitter this Friday, March 15 from 2 to 3 p.m. EST, so be sure to bring all your nursery questions, comments and insights to our #zulilyNurseryStyle Chat. Whether you’re curious about the most soothing colors for your nursery or want tips on customizing a baby’s room, Jenny, Alex and Natalie can answer all your burning questions!

About Jenny McCarthy

Jenny McCarthy is an actress, activist, mother, model and New York Times best-selling author. In 2011, she launched her line of eco-friendly nursery bedding, Too Good, in an effort to provide safe yet stylish options that fill the gap between high prices and low quality. A passionate advocate of autism research, Jenny also serves on the board of directors for her organization Generation Rescue.

About Alex Kanter
With three years of experience as a buyer, Alex Kanter has been a part of the zulily team for almost a year and focuses on bringing the best deals in bedding, bath and rugs to the zulily community. She searches for inspiration from all over (including Pinterest) and loves to bring a room to life with candles, accent pillows and colorful ottomans.

About Natalie Klein

Natalie Klein co-founded the site Hollywood Hot Moms with Jessica Denay in 2011 in an effort to make celebrity style accessible to everyone. Their site features the latest on what famous moms and their kids are wearing, in addition to giveaways and discounts.

If you’re new to Twitter or still learning the ropes, we’ve laid out a step-by-step guide to participating in a Twitter Chat below.

1. Visit twitter.com to sign up for an account and pick a unique Twitter “handle” (Handle = what comes after the @ symbol)

2. Follow @zulily @JennyMcCarthy and @HollywoodHotMoms

3. Visit one of our recommended Twitter monitoring tools. We’ll use tweetchat.com as an example.

· Once you’ve arrived at TweetChat click ‘Sign In’ and allow Twitter to authorize the TweetChat app.

· In the field that reads “Enter hashtag to follow,” input zulilyNurseryStyle
(all one word)

“@zulily excited to be here! What color would be most soothing for a baby boy’s room? #zulilyNurseryStyle”

A few of our favorite websites for monitoring Twitter:

· TweetChat http://tweetchat.com/,

· TweetGrid http://tweetgrid.com/

· Monitter http://monitter.com

· Hootsuite http://hootsuite.com

We’ll be reading and responding to your tweets in real time, so if you have a question, just tweet @zulily!

#zulilymaternitysyle Twitter Chat

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 14:41:00 -0800

Last Friday we brought together an expert panel for zulily’s maternity style Twitter chat, and in case you missed out on the fun, we’ve recapped the chat for here. Check out what our hosts – clothing designer/TV personality Rosie Pope, zulily maternity apparel buyer Robin Propst, American Baby magazine editor Jessica Hartshorn and Hollywood Hot Moms co-founder Natalie Klein – had to say.

Q1: What are some of the latest trends in maternity fashion?

@zulily: For Spring ‘13 prints, tailored, lace, and bright colors. Green is a fantastic color for both fall and spring, 3/4 sleeves, sweater for layering. -Rosie

@americanbabymag: I’m seeing maxi dresses again this summer. Love dresses because you can wear after baby too. A few dresses can go a long way if you use cardigans, leggings, etc. with them

@TonyaHopkins85: Maxi dresses and skinny jeans

@mom4everandever: I have seen a lot of maxi dress for maternity. Leggings, jeggings and big tops, too.

@Live_out_Loud77: Denim! There are so many great maternity jeans coming out & currently available. And colorful dresses! It amazes me so many women dull down when there [are] so many [color] choices

@martiferg: loving all the pretty spring dresses! Due in April though so trying not to go too crazy buying stuff

@Soon2bewedd: lots of dresses with stripes, dots

@mellanhead: cute leggings with tops

@lorikeet8: I am loving all the prints and colors. Not just boring black! (Don’t get me wrong I love a LBD!)

@FirstClassKris: A black dress is one ‘definite’ every mom-to-be should have! I see lots of plaid, too. Kate Middleton wears it!

@gemarchie: With winter here, gotta love leggings, they go a long way!

@CuteheadsKids: we’re seeing lots of preppy nautical stripes.

Q2: What are essential maternity fashion items?

@zulily: Denim, leggings, side-ruched tops, maxi dresses and skirts. –Robin

@americanbabymag Finding a great pair of maternity jeans is so key. That and a bra that fits! Maxi dresses, cardigans — check out our 16 staples for more ideas: ‪http://ow.ly/i8Rak

@americanbabymag: I think preggos need good separates and not just dresses… shirts are key for nursing

@zulily: good fashion tricks for nursing are to buy tops with a criss-cross front. Also wrap dresses are perfect! –Robin

@zulily if you don’t want to invest in nursing wear, invest in button downs + shirt dresses, ivory good for milk stains. -Rosie

@HollywoodHotMom: A good oversized comfy sweater! I lived in my grey VINCE.

@martiferg: a great pair of “skinny” jeans, cute maxi dress, nice sweaters, leggings/jeggings, a great pair of jeans, boots, a chunky sweater and good bras. I love jewelry and cute shoes b/c no matter how big my belly gets there are loyal to me ;)

@mom4everandever: maternity camis, maternity bras, leggings/jeggings, maternity jeans are a must—be comfortable. a wrap around dress — can adjust without it being baggy

@TonyaHopkins85: Jeans, flats, and a cute top is all I needed to feel fab!

@LConthemove: a great fitting pair of jeans!

@mellanhead: jeans, cute tops, bathing suit (at least for me)

@FirstClassKris: Black dress and skinny jeans

@Live_out_Loud77: Great jeans that you can dress-up or down [and] a pair of black slacks. Great for work or other occasions! I think every woman should have at least one shift dress in her maternity wardrobe [and a] long cardigan. Great for everyday wear or to wear with jeans, slacks, dress

@TheeJuliette: maternity bras, leggings and over-belly jeans

@lorikeet8: maternity leggings and ballet flats. I live in my side-ruched tanks in the summer!

@Clarissa_Laskey: maxi dresses and black yoga type/stretch pants are definitely maternity staples! I also think good, comfortable undergarments are key items during pregnancy.

@meganfilzen3: Maxi dresses are AMAZING!!!

@S_thirtymommy: Two pits of jeans, comfortable shoes, leggings, dress, tunic

@Soon2bewedd: I like wearing stripes shirts and over-belly cargos and jeans

@Mo_numberone: V-neck tops!!! skirts will be nice

@gemarchie: Leggings, maternity jeans are all time favs!

@americanbabymag The belly band is a necessity! If you need to know how to wear it, see our video: ‪http://ow.ly/i92hB

Q3: How do you determine what size to buy, since pregnant woman are growing daily?

@zulily: generally go w/ your pre pregnancy size sometimes go up size in last trimester if gaining a 1 lb/week on average. –Rosie

@zulily: Most maternity brands design with fabrics to grow with you. Be sure not to buy too big. Look for items with Lycra or spandex in the fiber content. Side-ruched tees grow with you, and hide post-baby belly. –Robin

@americanbabymag: Going up a size in regular clothes doesn’t address your changing shape… that’s why maternity clothes are so genius! Smart to stick to your same pre-pregnancy size. Maternity clothes just give more room at the bump.

@Live_out_Loud77: I read the size charts and try to buy a size-up to be safe. Wrap dresses are very forgiving with a growing baby bump!

@mellanhead: I try to find items that will grow with me, like jeans with the stretchable fabric tops

@lorikeet8: For tanks and tips I like to buy stuff that stretches and is 100% cotton. I love fitted-on-top dresses and loose around the belly. That way I can “grow” into it.

@Soon2bewedd: I’m buying mostly stretch and loose items like dresses and shirts

@TonyaHopkins85: I wait until I outgrow my regular pants and just try on different ones. I get the ones with the panel

@martiferg: I purchase same size I wore pre-pregnancy (so size small maternity)

@CuteheadsKids: it’s hard to say in the beginning. just go with the flow & buy a size up from what you think you’ll need.

@meganfilzen3: I would go bigger to be safe

@FirstClassKris: I always have to try items on. Even the same size of a shirt can fit so differently on me!

@TheeJuliette: shirts not tight and drop-waist tops are also good

@Clarissa_Laskey: I bought maternity items that were in my pre-pregnancy size. You can also wear them post-pregnancy!

Q4: What are some edgier styles I can experiment with during my pregnancy?

@zulily: lace, bright colors (esp pants and dresses), don’t be afraid of stripes and short sassy dresses. I like accessorizing w/ big earrings during pregnancy, draws the attention to the face instead of the belly. -Rosie

@zulily: sorbet colors are fun, mixing patterns, and LAYERS! :) -Robin

@americanbabymag: Pregnancy is a great time to try bright colors, makes you happy! And we put big earrings on a lot of our pregnant models. They look great, help balance the silhouette.

@martiferg: leather and lace…lol

@FirstClassKris: On a ‘night out’, I’d go for red heels & a sexy black dress! I think the new sorbet colored skinny jeans for spring are so cute, too! I want them so badly!

@lorikeet8: More fitted dresses with knee boots. I also want to try low-cut tops to accentuate my bigger boobs! Lol.

@Live_out_Loud77: Spiked leather ankle boots. Shoes are still so awesome to have fun with while pregnant! Love bright colors, too! They’re a great pick-me-up, especially in cute dresses, tops & accessories!

@S_thirtymommy: Leather, neons, patterns

@zulily: neon is good, leather is hard to do because it doesn’t stretch… but try leather jewelry, like bracelet cuffs. –Robi

@Soon2bewedd: yes so far I like the stripes

@IcySupreme: Low-cut and classy!

@mom4everandever: I liked dresses because they were versatile - looked good and not sloppy

@Clarissa_Laskey: ruffles and tiered items are always cute when experimenting with pregnancy fashion!

@meganfilzen3: Silk/lace in white/light pink! Beautiful!

Q5: What are the hot color trends for spring and summer?

@zulily: emerald, poppy red, lemon, nectarine orange. –Robin

@zulily: I always love nautical-inspired colors for spring/summer as well. -Rosie

@TheeJuliette: love coral

@FirstClassKris: I’ve seen a lot of whites & teal, plus ‘sorbet’ colored pants

@martiferg: neons, green, lace, etc.

@Live_out_Loud77: Green, fuchsia, pastels

@TonyaHopkins85: Neon and turquoise

@Clarissa_Laskey: pastels and emerald (shades of green)!

@meganfilzen3: I believe mint is suppose to be huge. Maybe with gold?

@zulily: mint with gold, also use it as a neutral and pair it with red, yellow, navy or orange. -Robin

@gemarchie: I would love green, pink

@Mo_numberone: emerald color is so nice this year

@lorikeet8: lime, lemon (bright neon)

@Soon2bewedd: red, emerald and orange are my fave

Reader questions

Q.) @Live_out_Loud77: What’s the appropriate dress/skirt length to wear during pregnancy?

@zulily: I would say knee-length [or] just above-the-knee, you don’t want to make yourself look shorter… or whatever is the most flattering on your body :) –Robin

@zulily: Whatever makes you feel confident. If you love your legs, go short if not try maxi or tunic w/ leggings –Rosie

@americanbabymag: I’d go with what you did pre-preg. Gals like @RosiePope are mini-length always

Q.) @lorikeet8: most of the maternity dresses are way too long for me

A.) @zulily try wearing wedges. They provide good support while pregnant, and give you extra height. –Robin

Q.) @gemarchie: I swim regularly, but in the latter part of my pregnancy would the regular swimwear do?

A.) @zulily: if you are comfortable in a 2-piece then rock it! Otherwise a tankini is good for late pregnancy. you can wear maternity swimwear whenever you want! I own two maternity suits and I am not prego. And swimming is a perfect exercise for pregnant mamas. Helps reduce swelling and keeps you in shape with low impact. –Robin

@americanbabymag: a full-piece suit is hard…tankinis are great. Maternity ones especially for the roomy top. we’re big fans of preggos in swimwear…all focus is on the bump, which is nice for a change!

@Clarissa_Laskey: plus swimming makes you feel weightless and you forget about your weight gain for a little bit!

Q.) @mrsbarbg: what’s the most fashionable, maternity appropriate style to wear? I’m always on the fence.

A.) @zulily: I find that a shirt dress is a great option for a lot of occasions. -Rosie

Q.) @mrsbarbg: what clothing items would be great during & after pregnancy?

A.) @zulily: look for items like shift dresses or during & after items like these ‪http://bit.ly/Z6R9dn -Robin

@americanbabymag: Our vid on getting the most out of your wardrobe from the first to the “fourth” tri: ‪http://ow.ly/i91Gv

Q.) @Live_out_Loud77: Are there certain patterns I should shy away from?

A.) @zulily: not really. If it is a good print that speaks to you, rock it! –Robin

Q.) @lorikeet8: What is a good way to wear nautical (horizontal stripes) when pregnant?

A.) @zulily: be sure that the top you are wearing with the stripes fits you well. The size of the stripe won’t matter. –Robin

Q.) @lorikeet8: Any other key accessories you recommend?

A.) @americanbabymag: definitely a pair of comfy nursing pajamas because, you know, new moms are up a lot at night!