Denverite Heather Benes’ idea for a better tote bag was hatched while on vacation with her family. She found herself once again digging in her beach bag in search of toys, sunscreen or something one of her children requested. “It was like a black hole. I said, ‘I hate my bag,’ and my friend said, ‘Then design one.’ ” So Benes did, and now the mother of two children ages 5 and 7 is marketing “LTD,” which stands for “living the dream.” The bag, in clear PVC and leather, has built-in compartments for items like sunscreen and a cellphone. LTD also includes a sunglass case, snap-in personal bag, and sand bag for wet items. A bottle opener is attached to the strap. The bag can be cleaned with a damp cloth and lies flat in a suitcase. It’s also good for the gym. “I tried to make it convenient for mothers and all the things we carry: phones and cameras, makeup, money,” she said. “And you can look through it and see things like the kids’ goggles. I wanted something that was convenient, affordable and cute.” The tote, $78, is sold at Blu, 3201 E. Second Ave.; Swim’n Things, 5494 E. Evans Ave.; Cherry Hills and Denver country clubs and online at .
