Holidays are coming!

With the temperatures dropping, these “Nuts” are an easy pick – one is new and one is just a long time BSQO staple. The new arrival from 66 North is their kid’s Baldur Jacket. While I am never sure how my new products will be received – I was really excited about the reaction to the Baldur. It is an extra thick and cozy fleece – warm enough to be outerwear on most days. More importantly it has received rave reviews from my young product testers and has been a hit with the Moms at recent shows in NYC and Greensboro.

A close second and long time favorite is the Cloudveil Run Don't Walk pullover. This item was part of my first collection when BSQO opened in 2007 and has remained part of our inventory every year. This is a really nice performance piece made from Polartec Power Stretch fleece; It is warm and light with a great fit. It is extremely versatile and can be a mid-layer or worn by itself. I take mine running, skiing just or lounging around the house.

The Case of the Missing Fall

Thanksgiving will be here in less than three weeks and Christmas four weekends after that. I think it is never too early to start getting organized and doing a few things now will certainly make the last minute crunch more enjoyable.

We will host family for Thanksgiving up in the Catskills. My plan is to create a very simple meal and a weekend of fun. To begin, I am searching for some new recipes that are a bit non-traditional; I am convincing my family that we don’t need SOOO much food (simpler is better), and I have mandated casual attire, meaning jeans. Setting the tone always helps me set expectations to then make a game plan. Once my game plan is intact from food to activities then I will need to execute and DELEGATE. I know the weekend will be fun, but too quick --- and then we are into December.

So a quick Christmas to do list has been started. #1 on the list is the old Christmas card which is always a bit stressful. I’ve learned through the years to let go of my perfectionism, as I have realized few people will ever scrutinize our card as closely as I do. So when I found a good picture of our family from this summer, I made a quick decision that while it is not perfect, it would be close enough for this year, and for better or worse it is now at the printer. I always have to remind myself that the fun with cards is opening up the happy pictures from friends, and no one really cares if someone’s eye is shut or they don’t have their best smile. While there is plenty more on the to do list, at least I am making progress!

Remember, get prepared and keep it simple. If you need jeans, I love our new Patagonia ones.

Sideline Fashion

Fall is definitely one of my favorite times of year. I love watching the kids on my block walking to school with their loaded backpacks. I love getting my kids back into their school routine. I love that the weather starts to cool down, but does not get too cold. I love the fall sports and especially sitting around watching a football game with the men in my life. I also really love a new season at Black Squirrel and unpacking the fall merchandise I ordered last winter.

For some reason this fall has been particularly discombobulated. I don’t know if it was because Labor Day was so late, or because school started so late, but for some reason, it is almost the end of October and I am not sure where all of the time went. As I sit down to crack the case of the missing fall, I realize it has been far too long since my last blog and I have lots to share.

Most importantly, I am so excited about BSQO's new ecommerce site. I hope it will finally be live by the end of the fall month. This site is

the primary suspect in my missing fall investigation. Had I known what an effort it would be to get all of the details correct, from photography to inventory - I am not sure I could have tackled it. The next time someone at a cocktail party tosses off the casual advice of "Oh, why don't you just try selling online" as if it were as simple as flipping a switch - I will have a good answer for them. Nevertheless, the site will look great and I, as much as anyone, knkow how much the web has changed my shopping habits, so this is  project I am very excited about.

Another big project for me was “Martha’s Market,” a three day show I did in Charlottesville, Virginia. Even though I am not a big Virginia

Cavaliers fan, I really love the city and that area of the Shenandoah Valley. Martha’s Market is a fundraiser for the Martha Jefferson hospital and in particular women’s health issues. It was a lot of work getting all of my merchandise down there, but I had a little help (thank you Hank Cochran), and it was a very successful show – I saw old friends, met some new friends and overall I think Black Squirrel was very well received. I also was able to contribute nearly $2000 to the hospital, so I am very pleased. 

Last, but not least I want to share my “Nut of the Month.” This month’s selection is the Rab Shadow Hoody.

Although the brand is still new to me, Garth and I “discovered” Rab last winter in Utah and are crazy about the line. Rab got its start 30 years ago making sleeping bags and now makes all types of outdoor gear and clothing. Few of their offerings are revolutionary, rather they simply make great looking, very functional gear that is at the heart of what Black Squirrel is trying to do. I was so excited when their shipment arrived last week that I have literally been living in my Shadow Hoody ever since. Its fit, color and comfort are all to my liking.

As I think back to my missing fall, I better understand where the time went. Looking ahead I know it does not get any easier between now and the holidays. So I am resolved to get my site launched, enjoy the last of my children’s football games, keep exercising and get myself ready for the madness that makes the holidays so much fun.

Be Prepared

Of course your kids are looking sharp on the field all suited up in their football and soccer uniforms, but how are you looking on the sidelines?

No matter what team it is or where you're cheering (NC, VA, NY or CT), everyone needs the same things when it comes to sideline fashion: comfortable, practical and stylish attire. My number one sideline pick for this time of year is down. Nothing matches down's warmth and light weight. After getting all the kid's gear in the car and on the field, the last thing anyone wants is something else heavy to lug around. Down is light and packable and keeps everyone warm when the October chill hits. All my down jackets and vests come in great colors, so you will look and feel good, on the field or off.

One other item that is worth mentioning is footwear. I am constantly asked by men in the store, "What's a good casual shoe to wear in the fall?" Even though BSQO has not started stocking mens shoes, here are a couple of my favorites for sideline style:

1 - Salomon Gor-Tex trail shoes. Look at something like the Salomon XA Pro 3D Ultra GTX - the dark color looks better than your typical running shoe and the Gortex keeps your feet dry and comfortable on the field or trail.

2 - Hush Puppy Reckless Boot - I love the look of these - like a retro sneaker with suede leather outers and a "Sherpa" lining to provide comfort and warmth.

Both can easily be purchased on zappos.com.

Mid Summer

I had the good fortune of spending Labor Day weekend in Big Sky, Montana with "family friends." Big Sky, as I referenced in my April blog, is a magnificent area, and just as majestic in September as it is in April. We mountain biked, hiked, fly fished, listened to Willie Nelson play under the stars and gawked at moose, bear, elk and fox.

My biggest adventure was on Sunday, when I did my first fly fishing float trip. Thanks to my brother in law who arranged a trip with East Slope Outdoors -- http://www.eastslopeoutdoors.com -- we floated the beautiful and productive Madison River. Six of us launched in three boats led by our colorful and expert guides: Sklyer, Adam and Stuart. While the fishing could not have been better as we landed plenty of Rainbows, Browns, Whitefish and even a Cutthroat; the weather was another story.

We knew the forecast called for a chance of rain with a high in the mid 60’s and upon departure the weather looked favorable – a beautiful mix of sun and high billowy clouds and moderate temperatures. Then we were off and within the hour the temperature dropped and we faced hail, lightning and thunder . . and we had six hours to go. I was hanging in there until my guide, Stuart, told me to set my rod down while we waited out some lightning that was a bit too close for comfort.

Fortunately, my family members have been very loyal supporters of Black Squirrel and I must say we were all well prepared with our layering systems that included plenty of Black Squirrel gear – Ibex base layers, fleece and down insulating layers and good waterproof shells.

Had the fishing not been so good I am sure I would have packed it in sooner – given that I am not a big fan of the wet and cold – but I sure would have hated to miss all the fun. This trip was a great reminder of why I opened BSQO in the first place. I love being outdoors and I don’t want to have to change my plans every time the weather changes. I am also not the kind of person who is going to run out and buy a new fishing or skiing or hiking outfit every time I want to try a new activity – so I need Black Squirrel gear – attractive, quality and above all, functional.

Best of all, by the time we got to Eino’s Tavern in West Yellowstone, I was warm, ready for a cold beverage, and ready to swap fish tales with my family and our guides.

Slacklining

I just sent out my email announcing Black Squirrel’s mid summer sale and I am feeling a bit nostalgic that I have only one more month before my boys head back to school. But when I stop and think of all of the great things that have happened, I get even more excited and determined to take advantage of these last few weeks with my family. Now that camps are over and summer lacrosse has wrapped up we will have the opportunity to spend some time in the Catskills.

I am working on a mental “to do” list of fun things I want to accomplish before September is here. A fun adventure is always on my list. Thanks to my kids, nieces and nephews this item rarely goes unfulfilled. Earlier this summer my 10 year old niece told me about always wanting to try parasailing, so next thing you know, Eliza, Quinn and Aunt Anne are 50 feet in the air attached to the back of a boat. While it decidedly is not an “adrenaline” sport (my nearly seventy year old mother joined us too), it was fun and beautiful and I am glad to say I have tried it. It is a great “one and done” activity.

Also on my list is to sit, relax and read a book. I have definitely mastered the art of sitting (albeit without the reading and relaxing parts) this summer, as I have spent many weekends under the blazing hot sun watching kids play lacrosse. I did have one big thought for the store though, after seeing so many teams in uniforms with all of the trimmings – bags, helmets, t-shirts, socks etc - I am convinced I should start a Black Squirrel Teams (BSQT) division. My goal would not only be to put the kids in some decent looking garb, but plenty of the parents could use a little Black Squirrel touch as well.

Last, but certainly not least, on my list are a few exciting new initiatives at Black Squirrel. I recently attended a few fashion and gift shows and saw some new lines for next spring that I am working on bringing to BSQO. Also, I am getting closer to finally making the BSQO on-line shopping experience a reality.

While I am old enough to know that not everything on my to do list ever gets done – I will and I encourage you to enjoy the last days of summer.

Nut of the Month

So Monday was a fun day at BSQO. One of the Gibbon Slackilines’ Pros, Micki, who refers to himself as a “Slacker,” stopped by the store for the afternoon. Micki is in the midst of a busy cross country tour, performing tricks and introducing the sport of slacklining to thousands of people. Although the sport is just start to catch on the East, it is growing like crazy out West. Micki’s recent tour stops include EMS stores in the North East, Paragon Sports in NYC and other retailers like Black Squirrel Outfitters.



Micki’s advice for beginner slackers was simple:
- keep your head and eyes looking up, not down at your feet
- put your arms over your head slightly bent
- concentrate/focus
- practice, practice, practice (sorry – there are no short cuts)



Micki has been a slacker for over eight years and he is extremely talented. He showed us jumps onto the slackline, on the slackline, from one to the other and most impressive were his yoga poses. In between tricks he spotted quite a few of us as we tried to walk the line. The photos say it all. Hopefully Micki or another slacker will come through Pelham again.


Don’t forget the slackline makes a great gift for $80. We are also carrying the new “funline” which is perfect for young kids ($100).


Keep Practicing!!

Memorial Day Weekend

For my "nut of the month" I am constantly looking for products and ideas that are new and cool, and sometimes I overlook some of my "tried and true" favorite things that, in this case, are literally at the end of my nose. Garth and I have been wearing Native sunglasses for years and I was thrilled to add them to my lineup this year. They are not the sexiest glasses on the market, but we keep coming back to them because they are a hit on so many fronts. I think they look great to start. All of their lenses are polarized which is a key point for Garth, an aspirational fisherman. Most of their models come with interchangeable lenses for any light conditions. They have a fantastic warranty and importantly, the price is right starting at just $89. So whether I am on my bike in low light conditions, on a boat or just knocking around town - these are my go to utility lenses. They are meant to be used and abused. If they break, send them back in, if they get scratched up - change out the lenses. Remember natives when thinking about graduation gifts and father's day -- Black Squirrel carries several styles.

Picking Crabs in St Michaels Maryland

                   

Watching NCAA Lacrosse Finals  

                            

Nut of the Month

I cannot believe it is already the end of May and Memorial Day is here. Being from North Carolina Memorial Day means the beginning of summer. I have learned that for some New Yorkers the summer season does not start until July 4th, but that seems like you are just shortchanging yourself by a month. So when the days start getting long, the pool opens, kids are talking about finals, graduation parties are happening, the weekends are full with fun escapes and we start getting the boys’ clothes ready for camp . . . . then I know it is summer.

While summer is one of my absolute favorite times of the year, it is also one of the most hectic – there is simply never enough time to ft in all of the activities we want to do. One of my tricks for summer weekends is to do as much in advance planning as is possible. For instance, I know that summer means weekends away and the need to have great hostess gifts. I think the key to a great gift is getting something that is unique and always trying to find items that the whole family can enjoy. Whenever I nail this criteria I immediately stock up. (Now that Black Squirrel Outfitters is carrying more of these types of items life is a bit easier for me.)

This Memorial Day we are making what is becoming an annual tradition of visiting good friends down in Virginia Beach. I hope I survive the heat and that the Southerners like our Black Squirrel treats.

Where ever you are have fun and enjoy the long weekend, and the taste of summer.

Firsts

What could possibly be cool, new or different about a reusable metal sports water bottle? We all have them or have seen them everywhere. Unlike most plastic water bottles, they don’t end up in landfills and users don’t have to worry about chemicals from the plastic. But still – aren’t water bottles a bit boring?

Well, the Hydro Flask is not your typical water bottle, and with our recent hot weather, it is this month’s must have “Nut”. The Hydro Flask is constructed of stainless steel, is 100% BPA-free, and is 100% recyclable. But the real benefit is that the double wall insulation keeps your cold liquids cold for at least 24 hours, and your hot liquids hot for at least 12 hours. Hydro Flask bottles won’t sweat with condensation and come with a lifetime warranty.

Enough of the facts, the real benefit was realized a few weeks ago when we had a 90 degree day in Westchester and lots of lacrosse. Hayne, my 11 year old, filled his Hydro Flask with ice and water, and took it to his game to put it to the test. At half time, he took a sip and, yes . . . the water was cold. A teammate needed some water so Hayne let him have a “water fall sip.” Hayne’s buddy was amazed that Hayne’s water was cold. Again after the game, the friend asked for more water and . . . same thing. The friend then called over all his other teammates, shouting, "Hayne still has cold water!”

The other anecdote worth sharing is a friend who has already purchased three Hydro Flasks for her children, bought a fourth on Saturday for her husband. He had been requesting store-bought plastic bottled water, and she finally told him, “It's time for you to have a Hydro Flask like the kids.” It IS better for the environment, and the water stays cold.

The other cool component is that with every purchase you can direct 5% of the proceeds to a charity of your choosing through FivePercentBack.org.

Try one and taste it yourself.

Fun Feedback

Just like we do with our children, I have been making notes of Black Squirrel’s milestones or “firsts.” Some are interesting enough to share with you.

First Customers: Mark Tuttle and Tim Cassidy both of Pelham were my first true appointment customers on September 12, 2007. They (and their wives) have continued to support Black Squirrel – and for that, I am very grateful.

First Award: When Black Squirrel Outfitters was named Best of Westchester in 2008, it came as a huge surprise. When Black Squirrel was recognized again in 2009 we were true participants and attended the 2009 Best of Westchester® Party. It was lots of fun, and we found ourselves in good company.

First Fashion Show: This past week Black Squirrel was fortunate enough to outfit nine models (three moms and three senior boys) at the Fordham Prep Fashion Show. Five hundred women watched the show, and again we found ourselves in good company with the likes of Brooks Brothers and Family Britches. The senior boys stole the show wearing their Black Squirrel outfits with attitude and style.

First Move: Black Squirrel moves this week into a larger retail space at 525 Fifth Avenue in Pelham. The atmosphere will be the same, but we will have more space to welcome you. To that end, join us for our opening weekend May 6, 7 & 8.

Who will be our FIRST CUSTOMER at our new location?

Comfort Zones

People often ask me what I most enjoy about Black Squirrel and it is a slam dunk answer – I always say the best thing about my job is the people. Socializing and strategizing with people about my business is something I profoundly enjoy and find very inspiring. Today I had the privilege of speaking with a few people of note: a new potential vendor/partner (whom I feel is quickly becoming a friend), an old friend who is a customer and a customer who is now a new friend. Each of these conversations included valuable feedback and was an inspiration to me. I'll jot down a few specifics below:

 







I was recently introduced to Maryanne Quinn who is an artist living in Boulder, CO. She and her sister, Jennifer Ashley, make these incredibly cool belts – dyed horsehair patterns combined with beautiful leather and hand stitched in Colorado. In the course of the conversation Mary Anne also told me about her art wall hangings. After seeing the one shown here I immediately started dreaming about a design for a Black Squirrel shop wall.

My old friend, Dodson Schenck, who can be seen enjoying some fresh powder in Jackson just last week (in the next photo) called to say his Arc’teryx jacket was just perfect. He headed west  expecting spring ski conditions but instead was pleasantly surprised when he found himself facing 42” of fresh powder in two days. He said he was very glad he packed his Patagonia down sweater as he needed the extra layer; I think he was trying to say thanks for convincing him to buy it.

My new friend, Ted Howard, stopped by the shop today to pick up a few spring items. It was through Ted, a year ago, that I was introduced to Greenlines, makers of classic boardshorts. Greenlines make their boardshorts from 100% recycled polyester fabric, and they too have a great give back component supporting local beaches and water ways.

All in all, these folks made my day. I love hearing from friends, new and old, so please speak up!

Stripes

Years ago, while working in the marketing department at Vail Resorts, one of the “facts” I learned was that most families like to ski the same resort, year after year. It makes sense, right? We all like to be in our "comfort zone" on vacation and get into our routine. It is always nice to know your way around a mountain, whether it is finding fresh snow, knowing where the shortest lines are or visiting the perfect lunch spot.

When I lived in Colorado, my comfort zone was on any mountain that was closest to our home. Since moving to New York, I quickly fell into a comfort zone of skiing in Utah – driven by the fact we had friends there and the OR Winter Show is there. How quickly we became familiar with and loyal to several areas in Utah. It’s an easy direct flight and gets 500" of snow - what could be better?

Fortunately, thanks to family and friends, I just had the wonderful opportunity to visit somewhere new, a place I had always heard great things about, but considered it to be too far away or too much hassle - Big Sky and Moonlight Basin, Montana. Yes, the flight was a bit longer, but I am so glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and found yet another place to fall in love with. Big Sky is aptly named as the vistas are absolutely stunning, the skiing terrain had more than enough challenges for everyone, and it was a very friendly place. The architecture made me want a truly rustic, yet refined mountain home, and gave me ideas for the new Black Squirrel shop (opening soon). I cannot wait to go back to Montana, be it for more skiing next winter or hiking this summer. It was simply -- just awesome.

With spring finally here (sort of), I am challenging us all to step out of our comfort zones. Whether that means not ordering the same thing from your favorite restaurant’s menu, or trying on something new the next time you are shopping for clothes - we all need to break out of the ordinary. Along the way be sure to listen to the advice of friends. Next time you’re in Black Squirrel, don’t be afraid to test drive board shorts with no liners, or a ribbon d-ring belt. I know a change can do wonders for the psyche!

Spring Arrives

No, not the Bill Murray Stripes, but stripes in design. I find the simple design element - stripes - a natural, be it for interior, creative or fashion design. Take the American flag for example. Flags look great when used as a decorating tool in boys' bedrooms, or draped on tables. Look at all the wonderful bed linens that incorporate the basic stripe. They are fun, bold and make a statement.

For men and boys, what is classier than a great looking striped polo? I am thrilled to be able to offer my customers the Papo d'Anjo striped polo for men ($90) and boys ($50).  They are made with a soft cotton jersey which feels great and wears wonderfully well. 

So if you want to "stripe it up",  throw on a Papo d'Anjo polo. Like everything at Black Squirrel Outfitters you can dress it up or down.

Spring fever and other things

It is official; spring arrives tomorrow, Saturday, March 20. For me the signs of spring are March Madness, lacrosse, daffodils, and the simple action of being outside. The signs of spring at Black Squirrel are color and patterns, from bright coral linen shirts to plaid cotton shorts. Overnight, the shop has been transformed by the arrival of my colorful spring merchandise.

March Madness – Our whole family looks forward the annual ritual of filling out the brackets (although it is a little more fun when your team makes the tourney). Personally, I like checking out the coaches and fans attire; what I would give to do a reality show about a coach makeover! I am also not so keen on the kids who dress up in costume and especially the painted chest thing (I hope Quinn and Hayne are listening!). I prefer the well dressed fan who is there to support his team and watch the game in style. So, if you will be in the stands, consider shopping at Black Squirrel first!

Lacrosse - All my boys are involved, so like everything else I either jump on the band wagon or get left behind. Last night I read every word of the latest Lacrosse magazine. I now have enough "cocktail conversation" to last me through the month. And, again, can I possibly persuade the lax coaches to wear good looking spring jackets? I know one who will.

Daffodils - As soon as they show up in the New York grocery stores, I know they are blooming in North Carolina. Ever since I was a child, daffodils have always marked the beginning of spring for me. I bought some this week and they are about the only girly accessory in our house right now. Look for them to brighten up a Black Squirrel photo or window soon.

Outside - Is there anything better than a early morning spring tennis game, a bike ride through city streets, or the sound of kids voices playing tag? It is going to be a beautiful weekend - so please shop early and then get outside!

I welcome you to share your favorite spring awakenings with me, either on this blog, or in person.

Winter break is over and yet it is still dumping snow outside; I have a bad case of spring fever. I need to get outdoors.

As I look forward to spring, I am so excited to introduce Black Squirrel’s new “cool gift collection.” I want Black Squirrel to be your preferred stop for outfitting your cool, classic and fun lifestyle.

One of my favorite finds at OR was the Gibbons Slackline – we even brought one home to test drive it. The kids immediately set it up in our basement and now compete on it everyday. Likewise, I attempt to walk across whenever I pass through the basement en route to my car. 



The basic idea behind slacklining is to take some webbing, string it between two fixed objects and try to balance. Hayne says it is like a tight robe but wider. All I can tell you is it is challenging, fun and works your core. Quinn comes up stairs dripping wet after 20 minutes of practicing. Our Costa Rican surf instructor (see last week’s blog) says it is great practice for surfing – must be why I was so good on the board.

So when the weather gets me down, I daydream about spring and all the exciting things happening at the store. I love the new products arriving daily at Black Squirrel. Stop in when you can.