November is the month...

.... November is the month...to get ready for a long cold winter with a handwoven blanket from the Atlantic Blanket Company on Swans Island, Maine. In the tradition of a true cottage industry, a small group of weavers will make you a luxurious blanket from pure virgin wool. From sheep on the island & from other Maine farms. We love the soft natural white blanket #302. Good for dreaming of more tropical islands than Swans!

"Blowin' in the Wind"

The Aloha Classic Windsurfing Championships are being held November 3-11th on Maui's North Shore. Ho'okipa Beach is the place to be for this final event of the Windsurfing Pro World Tournament.

This is a real spectator sport. Not only since most of us could never do what these athletes do. But because it's so much fun to watch. 100 windsurfers from 20 countries compete in the most prestigious event of the year. All you have to do is watch what looks like colorful "butterflies" flit over the water in front of you. And pray for enough wind!

"Get on With It!"

If you love to travel to islands, New York magazine's November 5th issue will put you in the mood to get on with it and go! Their "You Need a Break" issue features lots of island escapes to rest your worried mind & soothe your weary soul.

Several islands are briefly covered. But the article's reporting of some savvy "who's who" telling you about "what's what" on their favorite islands is the real scoop. We especially liked Tara Mandy's coverage of St. Barth & Mustique...two of our favorites.

"Pop in Venice"

No not the Pope. It's pop that comes to Venice in the form of Giorgia. An Italian pop star. At the Palafenice on November 27th at 9 p.m. to be exact. If you're in the city then, going to this concert may be a refreshing break from all that's classical around you.

The artistry of Giorgia is not well known outside of Italy. But it should be. Her latest CD, "Senza Ali," is also the name of her tour. You may not understand the words. But that's not the point. Her music is a good mix of pop, blues & her own Italian style.

"Chloe's Bold New Suit"

Chloe's new designer extraordinaire, Phoebe Philo, has swimming on her mind. Her new line of beachwear includes a bold, Caribbean blue tank suit.
But what makes it a "Chloe?" Straight from the sea, is the bright orange lobster design, all wrapped around the front.

Stella McCartney may have been thinking Hawaii for her boldly printed pineapple swimsuits. Perhaps Philo was thinking of the last time she had a good meal an island lobsterpound,