Fast Fashion: Why Mindful Shopping Matters

Fast fashion promises trendy pieces at unbeatable prices, but at what cost? Recent documentaries, such as Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy and Brandy Hellville & The Cult of Fast Fashion and the many films about Ghana and how it’s become the dumping ground of fast fashion clothes, all dive into the environmental and human toll of fast fashion. These films reveal the industry's wastefulness and the exploitation behind those too-good-to-be-true prices.

At PAO, we stand for something different. We’re a forever brand—family-owned, local, and rooted in the belief that shopping should be mindful. We don’t chase fleeting trends or hype; we focus on creating pieces that celebrate the coasts, family connections, and the beauty of the present moment.

When you shop with PAO, you’re choosing sustainability, quality, and love over disposability. Join us in saying no to fast fashion and yes to thoughtful purchases that make a difference—for your wardrobe and the planet.

As we grow, we continue to seek sustainable options for our brand. Thank you for your support.

Mindful shopping is not a trend. It’s a movement. Let’s make it last.

The Journey: Savoring Every Moment Along the Coasts of America

In our fast-paced world, we often focus so much on reaching our destination that we forget the true beauty lies in the journey itself. Imagine the anticipation of setting off on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway in California or heading south along the historic coastline of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Each of these journeys offers its own sense of excitement, adventure, and wonder. With every mile, we’re not just approaching a place on the map but also creating memories to last a lifetime.

The East and West Coasts of the U.S. are rich in diverse landscapes and experiences, each shaping us in a unique way. Picture yourself on a foggy morning in San Francisco, breathing in the cool, salty air as the Golden Gate Bridge rises out of the mist. Or imagine walking along the boardwalk in Virginia Beach, where the smell of the ocean mixes with the aromas of local seafood being prepared nearby. Each encounter along these coastal journeys adds depth to our understanding of the world. From surfers in Santa Cruz to the locals in Charleston sharing tales of southern hospitality, the people we meet along the way enrich our journey and stay with us long after we’ve moved on.

Long Beach Boardwalk, NY

Some places captivate us with their colors and scents. Watch the sun set over the cliffs of Big Sur, casting warm hues over the Pacific as waves crash along the rocky shore, or breathe in the scent of freshly bloomed cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., as spring sweeps over the National Mall. The journey is filled with moments like these: the smoky aroma of seafood on the grill at a seaside shack in Cape Cod, or the sweet, piney air as you walk through the redwoods in Northern California.

As we explore, we start to notice the uniqueness of each place. In Maine, the coastline is rugged and dotted with lighthouses, each one standing guard over the Atlantic, while in Oregon, rocky shores meet serene, misty beaches where surfers catch the morning waves. In New York City, the lights of Times Square pulse with an energy that’s impossible to replicate, while down in Miami’s South Beach, the Art Deco architecture glows under the tropical sun, vibrant and colorful.

So let’s not rush to the destination. Whether we’re cruising along Route 1 through the Florida Keys, winding through the Great Smoky Mountains on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or navigating the scenic trails along Malibu's cliffs, every moment along the way is worth savoring. Because in the end, it’s the journey itself that leaves us with the richest memories and stories. The journey becomes a part of us long after we’ve reached the end.

Fleeing Hurricane Harvey

For weeks my husband has been working at his new job in New York. Back home in Texas, the kids and I waited for the relocation company to start the process so that we could make our big move to New York. But, as it turns out, we were waiting for an imminent hurricane too, Hurricane Harvey. And on Friday it hit.

Alone in our home, the phone blasted alerts around the clock of potential flash floods and tornadoes ready to strike at any minute. What did I do? Firstly, I turned off the news. The alerts were enough information for me. My rattled nerves could only handle knowing of our individual, immediate danger. Over the course of four grueling days, we waited. When I did venture onto Facebook to check in with the outside world, my feed was flooded with images of friends and fellow Houstonians fleeing their homes from rising waters.

It was almost too much to bear. At one point my dear friend and neighbor walked over, and we let the kids play upstairs while we watched the movie Snatched. We desperately needed to feel a sense of normalcy after nearly a week of impending chaos. The goofy Schumer and Hawn kept us distracted from the extreme devastation around us.

My family lived in Texas, north of Houston, for seven years and never experienced a hurricane. I’m from California where earthquakes reign. Earthquakes come out of nowhere and wreak havoc immediately. So the unknowing and building suspense and tension of a hurricane was unfamiliar and terrifying to me.

Once the worst of the storm was over, we breathed a huge sigh of relief, and our home was completely in tact. Many were not so lucky. At the time of writing this there have been over 40 deaths. And the hurricane continues to take its toll as victims seek shelter and try to rebuild their lives.

The rain continued and the potential for flooding stayed strong. All of the airports were shut with no news of when they’d reopen. I decided to take to the possibly closed and treacherous roads and drive to New York. Our relocation started.

Driving from Houston to New York on my own with our three kids and dog was not initially well received. My friends and family were extremely concerned about our safety. I did what I knew was best for our family. One of the many reasons I wanted to get to New York soon was because I wanted my kids to have as seamless of a transition as possible; I wanted them to start school on the first day.

We left on Tuesday and drove north to escape the storm. Our first stop was to see our family friends in Dallas. They opened their doors to us, and the three kids greeted our kids like long lost cousins. Everyone played, and they fed us comfort food. With soothed nerves and full bellies, we piled back into the car. Now sunny skies beckoned us on the open road and we drove and drove. Taylor Swift, Florence and the Machine, Daya, and any and all Kidz Bop songs filled our car and brightened our spirits.

We kept in touch with my mom in Los Angeles, and she willingly became our remote travel agent and navigator. She was a lifesaver. Over the phone we worked out how far I’d be able to drive for the day, and she’d book us a dog-friendly hotel. We spent the first night in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Safely checked in before dark, we grabbed a quick dinner and then fell fast asleep. We rose early the next morning and started our second day.

Stopping only when absolutely necessary to go to the bathroom or eat, the kids were upbeat and surprisingly well behaved. Normally we have epic meltdowns at Target or even walking the dog in our neighborhood; so the fact that they never complained or fought is beyond my comprehension. I’m forever grateful for whatever mysterious force pulled them from the depths of their everyday antics and bestowed on them the ability to behave, listen, and help me.

The second night, thanks to my trusty mom, we ended up in Terre Haute, Indiana. It was a beautiful, historic, college town, and we were able to walk around with the dog. We ate at a divey burrito place that reminded me exactly of the type of hole-in-the-wall restaurants I ate at when I was in college. The kids loved watching the sun set and rise from our fifth floor hotel room, and they played silly games in the room. They were able to make every new hotel room and every new nook and cranny into a wonderland of imagination and adventure.

By our second night I expected my adrenaline to have worn off and for fatigue to set in, but no. I kept going, like a machine. I never once felt exhausted or incapable of continuing. I also knew that the more we drove the sooner we’d arrive safely at our final destination. Determination was my driving force.

On the third day my mom booked our hotel. It was eight hours away, and I wasn’t sure if I could make it. We stopped in downtown Columbus, Ohio and picnicked in Capitol Square. We saw the beautiful Ohio Holocaust and Liberators Memorial and met friendly people. It’s one thing to attract attention because you have kids, but dog lovers are the friendliest. Everyone wanted to stop and pet Bonzo, our 2-year-old cocker spaniel.

Eventually our scenery changed and the cool weather blew over the mountains and trees. The roads started to wind and Hennie, especially, gushed over the views from her window. We stayed our final night in Bedford, PA. This was the simplest of hotels and the most accommodating. We were able to pull up in front of the room, which made it easy to load and unload the car.

We hadn’t seen Steve in weeks, so our last morning we ate breakfast and eagerly headed off for New York. Over bridges and through tunnels, after tolls and tolls, we could finally see the Statue of Liberty and the immense NYC skyline. We’d arrived. Gleaming with pride, we pulled into a hotel on Long Island where we’ll stay until the lease starts on our home in a few weeks. Steve was able to register the kids for school, so they’ll start on the first day, Wednesday. We did it.

There are so many times when I’ve wondered who I am now—now that I’m a mom. I’ve often felt like I’ve lost sight of my bravery and my fierce independence that once flowed through my pre-mommy veins. But this trip has reminded me that I am now, more than ever, a brave and independent woman. Capable of anything. Only this time my bravery and confidence benefits both me and, more importantly, it benefits my kids and my family.

Today, Sunday, I woke up needing desperately to do our laundry. We brought tons of clothes, the car was packed to the brim with stuff, but we’d run out of clean everything. I went to the car and couldn’t find my keys. The rain started coming down. I’m notorious for losing my keys, so my first thought was immense gratitude that this happened today and not when we were on our cross-country road trip.

I called roadside assistance, and we waited in the rain. Just then, an Indian wedding came outside and everyone was dancing and celebrating. The groom’s procession, complete with a decorated horse, made its way around the parking lot as we watched in amazement. The music blasted and the DJ led everyone in dance. We did the “sprinkler” and the “make it rain.” Afterward, Hennie and Tillie got to sit on the horse. It was the most spectacular event.

As soon as the wedding guests went inside, the car mechanic arrived and jimmied the lock, but we still couldn’t pop open the trunk. Neither of us could work out how to do it. I’ve locked my keys in the trunk before and have had to do this exact same thing, but I couldn’t remember how.

So, we decided the laundry was not going to get done today, and we went to the indoor pool. When Steve finished work, he figured out how to pull the backseats down and reached into the trunk to open it. Well guess what? The keys weren’t in there. At first I thought he was joking, but he was actually serious.

I frantically searched the hotel room again and eventually found the keys. Where were they you ask? They were in my sweatshirt pocket, of course. No, I hadn’t checked those pockets before calling for assistance. I’d checked the pockets of the fleece I thought I was wearing, but not the pockets of the sweatshirt I was wearing. And there you have it, a moment of humanity to end a week of feeling like supermom.

Top 10 Travel Tips

Photo by Hennie England

I have worked in the airline business for over 25 years now. I spent a lot of time flying and when working for the airline, I have to be on best behaviour travelling. When you are watching every move you are making, you become a very good observer of others on a flight, at the airport, and travelling in general.  

I have quipped about wanting to write a handbook on airline etiquette for the last 10 years but let the thoughts I had diminish in between flights and never scribbled them down on paper.  

So, here are my top 10 travel tips to help you and your fellow travellers—hopefully! 

1. Kindness. If the airline staff have an attitude, don’t give them any reason to put a target on your back. You could be the next one after a long line of passengers who just grumble at every little detail or pay economy prices expecting first-class treatment.  

2. Upgrades. Limit trying to get upgraded for something you didn’t pay for on every flight. They have heard it all before a million times; it’s not cute.  

3. Be prepared. All airlines work on timeframes; the departures are strictly scheduled to not cause delays. Always have your tickets, IDs, or passports easily accessible and ready if asked to produce them.  

4. Departure time. If you don’t get to the gate by the time that it says last boarding call, that’s on you. Even if it is a minute late, doors have to close on time for a reason. You can threaten to call the authorities all you want; you have no leg to stand on. (People actually do this! Don’t be one of them.) 

5. Boarding. Oh, the nightmare of boarding. If you are group 5 standing in the way of group 2 boarding, you’re a problem and delaying your own boarding. Would you take a ticket at a deli counter and stand in between someone else and the butcher until your number was called? 

6. Carry on luggage. I don’t care what the airline policy is. If you only have a backpack and you are expected to make way for roll-ons but block your own foot space, that’s not on. Your ticket allows you to an equal amount of overhead bin space as anyone else.

7. Seatback. Everything on the seat in front of your seat is linked to another passenger’s comfort: the tray table, the in-seat video screen, and the seat pocket. Have some consideration when moving or using these items. Repetitive tapping on a touch screen or slamming your tray home when you’re finished gets old. Reclining your seat during a meal service—just rude.  

8. Deboarding. There’s absolutely no reason to be the first one to stand up as soon as the seat belt sign goes off. Who are you that makes you so important? It’s an unwritten rule; it is your turn when the row in front of you leaves. The cabin door opens when it opens; the jetty gets there when it gets there. If you have another flight or you have places to be, plan better. If it’s down to the airline, the cabin crew will normally make an announcement to get passengers to the front who need to be there. If you really want to be the first one off, buy a first-class ticket. 

9. Seating. Leave your seating area as you found it. I have been gob smacked by the state some cabins have been left in. Just because the flight will be cleaned during the turn-around, that is not a reason to trash the plane; that’s just entitlement kicking in. 

10. Baggage collection. Believe me, your luggage does not come any faster if you stand as close as possible to the baggage belt. Also, you have no idea what order it was loaded or unloaded in, so probability suggests you will always be standing in the way of someone else’s bag. In most major airports you will see subtle tile work in the floor indicating a line to stand behind. Try it! 

#bicoastal

Embracing Hiraeth: Exploring the Deep Longing for Home and Belonging

PAO is about a love of home. (East or West coast home-life specifically.) It’s about throwing on that piece of clothing to represent your heart, your home, your essence.

You may live where you were born or you may love where you were born and live somewhere new, but the roots in your original soil are deep. 

In Welsh the word hiraeth (heer-eye-th) describes a feeling of homesickness or longing for a place that doesn't necessarily exist or is unreachable; it is nostalgia and yearning combined with comfort and belonging. There’s no direct translation in English, but at PAO, we get it. Here are other versions of this strong and powerful feeling in other languages:

1. Saudade (Portuguese): Saudade is a Portuguese word that describes a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for someone or something that is absent or distant. It carries a sense of melancholic longing and is often associated with missing someone or something from the past.

2. Sehnsucht (German): Sehnsucht is a German word that expresses a profound yearning or longing for something unattainable or beyond reach. It can refer to a desire for a person, place, or experience and is often associated with a sense of profound emotional or spiritual longing.

3. Fernweh (German): Fernweh is another German word that is often translated as "wanderlust" in English. However, it carries a deeper meaning, describing a longing or ache to travel and explore far-off places. It's a combination of the words "fern" (far) and "weh" (ache), expressing a deep yearning for distant lands and the sense of adventure they offer.

4. Natsukashii (Japanese): Natsukashii is a Japanese word that conveys a nostalgic longing for the past, particularly for experiences, places, or things associated with happy memories. It reflects a bittersweet sentiment of missing something from the past and carries a sense of fondness and nostalgia.

While these words capture certain aspects of hiraeth, each one has its own unique cultural and linguistic context. Ultimately, the depth and complexity of hiraeth make it difficult to find an exact equivalent in other languages, but these words offer similar shades of longing and nostalgia–these are the tapestry of PAO. The warm blanket of home.

#bicoastal

Discover the Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in California's Coastal Paradise

The PAO vibe embraces the East and West coast. And to narrow down our recommendations for top family-friendly restaurants, we’re exploring dining in California!! The one thing this eclectic list has in common is that none of them are a national chain; they’re all one-of-a-kind exclusive to Cali. 

Here are some chill spots to dine with kids. The atmosphere will keep the kids occupied and parents relaxing. No iPads required!

1. Back on the Beach Café (Santa Monica): Outside seating is literally on the sandy beach along the Pacific Ocean. Watch the world whiz by on bikes, roller skates, skateboards, and Birds as you dine al fresco. Take a short walk to the water for a post-dining dip. The Santa Monica pier and cliffs of Malibu flank this café’s breathtaking views.

2. The Old Spaghetti Factory (San Diego): Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, this restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with affordable pasta dishes and a menu for kids.

3. Stack's Pancake House (Dana Point): A popular breakfast spot with a beachy vibe, Stack's Pancake House serves a wide variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast favorites. Guaranteed no complaints from the kids.

4. Beachcomber Café (Newport Beach): Located right on the beach, this casual restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a family-friendly menu featuring seafood, burgers, and salads.

5. Pier 39 (San Francisco): While not a specific restaurant, Pier 39 is a popular destination with numerous dining options that cater to families. From seafood restaurants to pizzerias and ice cream shops, you'll find a wide selection of cuisines to satisfy everyone's taste buds.

6. Sol Food (San Rafael): A vibrant Puerto Rican restaurant, Sol Food serves delicious and authentic dishes in a family-friendly setting. Their menu includes items like roast pork, plantains (our family favorite), and empanadas.

7. Gott's Roadside (St. Helena): This roadside eatery in Napa Valley serves gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They use high-quality ingredients and offer a kids' menu as well.

8. La Jolla Shores Restaurant (La Jolla): Situated by the beach, this family-friendly restaurant offers a seafood-focused menu along with other California-inspired dishes. It has a kids' menu and beautiful ocean views.

These restaurants provide a mix of different cuisines and atmospheres, ensuring an enjoyable experience for the whole family. Stay tuned for more coastal spots to eat!

#bicoastal

Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Activities in New York City: Parks, Museums, Stores, and More!

When we travel to NYC, it’s easy to find things to do that we each love, but the challenge is finding activities that we all love! NYC may have the highest real estate prices, but there are plenty of free and fun activities. Here are the top 8 family-friendly activities in New York City:

1. Central Park: Explore the park, visit the Central Park Zoo, and enjoy activities like rowboat rentals and picnics.

2. Coney Island: Enjoy classic amusement park rides, the beach, and tasty treats like Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs.

3. FAO Schwarz: Visit the iconic toy store with interactive displays and a vast selection of toys. Pro-tip: have family movie night and watch “Big” beforehand to fully embrace reenacting the gigantic piano playing moment! 

4. Ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty: Taking a ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty is a memorable experience for both kids and adults. The ferry departs from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan and provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty as well as the Manhattan skyline and the surrounding harbor.

5. The LEGO Store: View the incredible LEGO displays, participate in building events, and shop for LEGO sets. 

6. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Located on a decommissioned aircraft carrier, this museum provides an exciting opportunity for families to explore various aircraft, including the famous Concorde and the space shuttle Enterprise. There's also a submarine.

7. American Girl Place: Find a variety of dolls, accessories, and books, and enjoy a meal at the doll-friendly café.

8. The High Line: Take a walk along the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. Enjoy the unique urban gardens, public art installations, and various events that take place throughout the year. Our family especially loves the unique views into the apartments that border the High Line.

These activities and stores offer a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and exciting shopping destinations for families visiting New York City.

#bicoastal

Creating a Home Away from Home: Embracing Life Without Family Nearby

With Steve’s family in London and mine mostly in Los Angeles, we are very familiar with paving our own path in the absence of extended family. Living far away from family can present unique challenges, but it also offers an opportunity to build a new home together as a couple and close-knit family. In this blog post, we delve into the experience of creating a sense of belonging and cultivating a supportive environment in a place where your immediate family may not be physically present. From establishing a strong support system to embracing the local community, here's how you can make your new location truly feel like home.

1. Build a Support Network: When family is far away, it's crucial to establish a reliable support network in your new location. This network can include friends, neighbors, colleagues, and even online communities. Actively seeking out like-minded individuals and engaging in local activities or events can help you form meaningful connections. Building strong relationships with those around you ensures that you have a solid foundation of emotional support and assistance whenever you need it. Everywhere we’ve lived, we’ve made amazing friends with our community of neighbors.

2. Embrace the Local Culture: Living in a new place offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourselves in the local culture. Take the time to explore the unique traditions, festivals, and customs of your new home. Engage with the local community, attend cultural events, and participate in activities that allow you to connect with the essence of your surroundings. By embracing the local culture, you not only broaden your horizons but also develop a sense of pride and belonging in your new home. In Houston, we loved going to the annual Greek festival downtown.

3. Create Familiarity: When living far from family, finding ways to create a sense of familiarity in your new environment is essential. This can be achieved by incorporating elements from your own cultural backgrounds into your daily life. Cook traditional meals, celebrate important holidays, and maintain rituals that remind you of home. Surround yourselves with items that hold sentimental value, such as photographs or cherished mementos, to create a comforting atmosphere that reflects your shared history. Steve cooks a traditional English Sunday roast. It’s a cherished and delicious meal, where we gather around the family dining table for a more formal and special meal.

4. Explore the Surroundings: Make an effort to truly discover the region you now call home. Explore the local attractions, natural wonders, and hidden gems that your new location has to offer. By becoming familiar with the area, you not only gain a sense of belonging but also create a personal connection with the place itself. Venture out, go on weekend excursions, and embark on adventures that deepen your bond and strengthen your appreciation for your new home. Living on the doorstep of New York City makes it so easy to explore something new around every turn!

5. Establish Rituals and Traditions: In the absence of immediate family, establishing your own rituals and traditions becomes even more significant. This can be as simple as weekly movie nights, Sunday brunches, or monthly game nights with close friends. By creating regular activities and special moments that are uniquely yours, you cultivate a sense of stability and create memories that will shape your lives together. Our family has a tradition of birthday scavenger hunts. The kids have yet to grow out of it and look forward to it at every birthday!

6. Nurture Long-Distance Relationships: Living far away from family doesn't mean losing touch with them. In today's digital age, staying connected is easier than ever. Leverage technology to maintain regular communication with your loved ones. Schedule video calls, share updates, and involve them in your lives even from a distance. These connections provide a sense of emotional support and remind you that you are not alone in your journey a far. Whether we’re texting briefly or video calling for hours, staying in communication as best we can keeps our connections with family strong.

Living in a new place without family nearby can initially be daunting, but it also presents an opportunity for growth, exploration, and the creation of a unique sense of home. By building a support network, embracing the local culture, and establishing rituals and traditions, you can forge a fulfilling life. Remember, home is not just a physical location but a place where love, support, and a shared sense of belonging thrive, regardless of proximity to family.

#bicoastal