Spring fever and other things

Friday, February 26, 2010

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.

Surfing

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Being the only female in my family, I am determined that I will not be the one who gets left at home when the boys are out playing. As a result, I have to put myself out there, because the boys like adventure and I want to be part of it. So at the ripe old age of 44 I committed to learn to surf. 


Knowing I was out of my league I contacted a friend, Caroline Wallace of Brownell Travel.  Thanks to Caroline the only hard part of our trip was the surfing. She steered us in the right direction and took care of every detail. Most importantly, she introduced us to Henry Aguilera who owns Dominical Surf Adventures. Henry, our surf guide, was awesome; he not only taught us to surf, but he shared so much with us about the Costa Rican culture.




Henry’s business philosophy and passion for his venture are ones that I hope to emulate. While sharing his country and talents with tourists he also employs many young men from his community who need his mentoring. He trains these men as guides while encouraging them to continue their education. His commitment and respect to the natural resources of Costa Rica have given him much joy and he wants his clients to enjoy them as well. Henry truly inspired me.



Since returning home, I have been working on concrete objectives for BSQO for 2010 to further increase my commitment to our community and will find ways for BSQO protect and encourage the use of our outdoor resources. I will keep you posted.

Our surf adventure will be a highlight for me for years to come. I can’t wait for warmer weather and more surf opportunities.



Tiramisu . . . and other things

Thursday, February 4, 2010

My sisters and I all absolutely love a little "Tiramisu." I am not talking about the wonderful Italian dessert, rather to us, Tiramisu (or "tirami su" which literally translates as "pick me up") is a little something you buy yourself to pick up your spirits! During these cold February days as I, not so patiently, await spring, I think we could all use a pick me up. Whether or not you get yours at BSQO, be sure that you get a little Tiramisu this month!

Speaking of "pick me ups," I recently spent time with one of my favorite spring/summer brands, Island Company, who are out of Palm Beach (sadly, the meeting took place in NY) and I am really excited about the new orders I placed. I love the Island Company board shorts, they are authentic board short quality - for the inner surfer in you - but come in great colors and patterns that you will not find at your local surf shop. 


I am most enthusiastic about the women’s pieces presented by Island Company. By request, I will showcase my spring/summer favorites for women, and among these are pieces from Island Company. Maybe this featured tunic is your "Tiramisu."


Till next time, enjoy the Super Bowl!


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