Fall for Suede

If you are lucky enough to be going way for the upcoming Columbus Day weekend, I offer a few packing tips.

Start with the appropriate size duffle.  We love the color and size options of our Patagonia duffle.  Remember, it is just a weekend, so the small or medium should suffice, unless you are packing for the whole family and then the large is a perfect option.  Garth much prefers one big bag to several small ones.  Simply a matter of preference.

As for contents, naturally it depends on where you are headed, but the temperatures do seem to be dropping.  We think in terms of base layer, mid layer, outerwear, shirts, pants and accessories.  So my picks would be:
base layer -- Ibex Zepher
mid layer - Rab Fleece
outer layer - Patagonia Ultralight Down Jacket
shirt - Saltaire or TailorByrd
pants - Mountain Khakis - any style: original, cords or flannel lined
accessories - Ibex gloves and Patagonia beanie

Keep it simple and have fun!

Suede is the new, hot texture this fall and we absolutely love our NEW suede belts from Torino. The navy with red stitching is great looking and my personal favorite. The $75 price point is not bad for a good looking and well constructed belt.

A few customers of recent have been uneasy with the navy and asked about what shoe to wear. Just as brown, black, and gray are neutrals, navy can be too. Wear the navy belt with brown suede loafers for a stylish, sophisticated look, if you have them, but otherwise don't sweat it.

Still not sold on the brown and navy combination? Look at the fabrics and wallpaper from this handsome, yet fun room (http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=84327). Navy and brown can be paired together to create many different (and great) looks.

This year's mud run proved to be just as much fun as last year's, and even muddier!  While I missed having Quinn along, Davis Allen, Sammy Mueller and Hayne were great company.  Well, actually, they were inspiration as I only saw them at the starting line and then again when I finished.  They were amazing as they produced great times and attitudes. 

Nearly 2400 people ran in the 2011 Merrell Down and Dirty 5K Mud Run, and I am pleased to report that all of us finished in the top 100 overall: Hayne 35th, Sammy 79th, Davis 82nd, and Anne 95th -- not too shabby for 13 year olds and an old lady.

Think about participating next year.  You will not regret it.

starting line

mud pit

Davis, Anne, Hayne & Sammy

muddy running clothes and shoes

running clothes sand shoes soaking in tub 

Down and Dirty Mud Run

Alec Bidwell enjoys COLD water from his Hydro Flask at yesterday's Pelham modified cross country race. Alec is doing his part to save the environment by being green while hydrating.

Be sure to post your Black Squirrel Sightings on our Facebook page to receive a 25% discount code for online shopping.

As Sunday approaches I grow excited and anxious about participating again in the second annual Merrell Down and Dirty Mud Run.  My boys and I had so much fun last year that we convinced Garth and a few friends to join us this year for the mud run. It takes place at Orchard Beach in the Bronx which is part of Pelham Bay Park, the largest park in NYC.  The 5K race is filled with obstacles and tons of mud.  Last year I found the race challenging and hysterical at the same time.  I look forward to running, jumping, crawling, and hurdling the 5K race this year with Garth & Hayne Ainslie, Davis Allen & Sammy Mueller (the other girl willing to get dirty).  Enjoy the 2010 pictures and stay tuned for the 2011 ones to come.