Our Stories | Mexicali Blues Blog

It’s the giving season, and those of us at Mexicali Blues are embracing the spirit of giving this year by donating over five thousand child-sized face masks to local schools as part of our ‘Global Giving Sharing Smiles’ charitable program. Each year, we give back 1% of our total sales to organizations that do a world of good, and despite the changes and challenges we’ve all faced, this year is no different. Our team worked with seven school districts to distribute the masks during the week of Thanksgiving. Schools in Bangor, the greater Portland area, Windham, Freeport, and the Midcoast region all received several hundred brightly colored face masks to give out to elementary and middle school students. 

The idea to give back to local schools came to our co-owner, Kim Erskine, one day while having a conversation with her sister Laurie Gerard, a kindergarten teacher in Auburn. With all of the obstacles that the Covid-19 pandemic has presented–one of which being kids without masks, or with ones that did not fit properly, Gerard described the current school year as the most challenging in her 25 year career.

Shortly after this conversation took place, we received a shipment of colorful, comfortable child-sized face masks from Thailand, made by artisans we have worked with for years. Kim remembers the moment it all came together. 

“I immediately knew we needed to order more and distribute them to the schools in the communities of all of our store locations. We have such great community support in each of our locations and we thought this was an excellent opportunity to give back. This is a unique donation in the sense that it was not planned out in advance but a reaction to a new situation that arose out of the pandemic. Our hope is that we can provide masks where needed–and that the bright colors and fun prints add a little levity to the kids' days. Even though you can't see the smiles under the masks, we know that they are there!” 

When we told our suppliers the plan to donate masks to local school children, they kindly sent a couple hundred extra, free of charge, to help with the effort! Since distributing the donations, we have received several thank you’s and even some photos of the school children wearing the masks. It’s not hard to see some ear-to-ear grins behind them either–it has truly turned out to be an experience of global giving and sharing smiles!

The new moon rises on December 14th with a simultaneous solar eclipse. As the last new moon of this long and strange year, we knew there’d be something special about it. Normally the new moon marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life or the ideal time to start a project you want to see finished. However, with the eclipse also occurring on the same day it’s likely we will all experience some radical shifts to the usual plan. 

That shouldn’t be too difficult considering the hoops we’ve all jumped through to keep going this year. Hopefully the change that’s coming quickly for us is a good one, as we run full speed ahead into the next moon cycle. The cosmos is literally begging and pushing us to make positive change and it’s up to us as a collective to make that happen. If you’re not up to date on The Great Conjunction, definitely look into this huge cosmic event!

For some that means setting stricter personal boundaries and opting for curbside pickup rather than entering a packed store. For others it might mean signing up for that online course that has been one line too low on the to-do list. Whatever it means for you, be sure to put 100% effort into it. 

What this moon means for Fire Signs: Leo, Aries, Sagittarius

We know it’s been a looooong time since you’ve felt that playful part of your personality. This temporary transformation could be the perfect opportunity to get in touch with another aspect of yourself that has been hiding in the shadows. If it’s making you a little nervous, that’s ok because it’s all part of the ride we’re on.

What this moon means for Earth Signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

You might find some individuals are taking more than you are able to give so keep in mind that you are worthy of time to yourself and setting strong boundaries. Your structured and organized life should include time to practice self care, or at least an afternoon of quiet to yourself. What would make it even better? Spending your you-time in a clean space. 

What this moon means for Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Keep a close eye on your communication this cycle and be sure to watch the words you use because they have an unprecedented power. If you need support, reach out to the Earth signs in your life. Maybe it’s time to rekindle a long lost connection you miss. 

What this moon means for Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

It’s all about patience and letting things flow with the tide right now. With the cosmic energy shifting dramatically in every direction it’s good to take a bit of caution. If you see an opportunity to make an improvement be sure to look past the glamour and seek out the overarching benefit for everyone it might affect. 

Hello Mexicali Blues Community!

I’m Chelsey, Web Manager at Mexicali Blues, and I wanted to personally reach out to you with an update on shipping delays and the holiday season. First, a huge thank you for your patience this year. 2020 has been something else to say it lightly, and we know it’s been hard for everyone. We have really appreciated your loyalty as we navigated through uncharted waters this year. Your patience and understanding have meant the world to us. 

We must now ask for your continued patience, as we have been notified that we can expect to see some significant shipping delays this holiday season. No doubt some of you already have orders you are waiting for, and I do apologize for that. With everyone shopping safely online this season, there is a strain on both our packing capacity and our mail carriers as we all try to get every gift where it needs to go.

With that said, know that we are working as quickly and efficiently as possible to make sure all orders are shipped out in a timely manner, but there will most likely be delays of 5+ business days due to increased order volume and the massive number of packages mail carriers are moving across the country. If you have placed an order and do not see a shipping update from us within a week, I can promise you that we have not lost your order, but are working our hardest to get it out. 

While we can’t guarantee shipping by December 25th, we do recommend making sure any holiday gifts are purchased by December 14th to give ample time for them to arrive. Although we can’t guarantee the package will arrive on time, we are always happy to help should anything go wrong or any issues occur. Just drop us a line at customerservice@mexicaliblues.com and we will get back to you as soon as possible!

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. We would be happy to hear from you! 

We wish everyone a happy holiday season. 

Peace + Love,

The Mexicali Blues Team

Capricorn Season has begun and with it brings great anticipation. What’s important to remember as we transition into this new year are all lessons we’ve had the opportunity to learn in 2020. The small team here at Mexicali has done an incalculable measure of growing and adjusting this year. We’ve learned new skills and figured out how to support each other when it seemed impossible to support ourselves. We’ve also had the privilege of having you (yes, you) in our community. That has been the ultimate reward of all the hard work we’ve been doing for these past months and for that we say thank you.

The Great Conjunction of 2020 occurs on the 21st of December, something that only happens approximately every 20 years. At just 0.1 degree apart, this is the closest conjunction of the planets Saturn and Jupiter since Galleleo’s observance of it in 1623. Saturn, representing structured organization and rigid rules to follow, is quite opposite from the abstract Jupiter who flourishes in flexibility, expansion and creativity. The energy of their conjunction is intense but will result in a strange calm throughout the universe. How you and those in your life react to this neutrality is entirely up to you and will teach you even more about yourself and those around you. 

So whether you’ve had the time to reflect on your self care routine or if you’ve amped up your own ability to give back to your communities, we applaud you for the challenges you’ve conquered and are still navigating. We believe it has been beneficial on a global scale for all of us to have a chance to step back and reflect. Seeing where you stand with perspective to the universe is essential for growth and understanding and it’s clear that humanity is at the beginning of this long journey.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

It’s the season for your professional aspirations! Don’t be frazzled by the sudden attention at work (or possibly the excitement from your new peers at a new company!) You’ll soon be reaping the rewards of all the hard work you’ve put in to get to this point–but don’t forget those that helped you along the way.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Chances are you’ve already started to feel the payoff for months of striving to reach the goal you set at the beginning of this year. Watch how that reward blooms and see where you can give back to help others feel the same joy! If that hasn’t happened then don’t over stress about it. This is the time to relax, reflect and wait for events to unfold naturally. 

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Not to trope on the flighty gemini stereotype, but we know this year has been a hunkerdown nightmare for you. We’re not saying you can go back to your social butterfly self, but we are proud of you for finding other ways to fulfill your needs! The extra push of Capricorn energy is going to continue to support this aspect of your life.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Has the steamy vibe started to settle a bit? You can bet it’s gonna turn right back up and even be a positive booster for your other relationships too! As for the acquaintances that are becoming a little lackluster, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to keep pouring your energy into them before they start to eat away at your energy stores even more.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

This year you’ve become much more organized with your inner self and goals, and that is amazing. Keep fine tuning those routines but don’t forget to leave space to mix things up when you want to! 

Virgo (August-September 22)

Of all the signs, you have encountered more transformation than any in this wild year. Look back and see how far you have come! Those tough decisions have paid off and now is the time where you can really step fully into the role you’ve been wanting to fulfill. Remember to continue being gentle with yourself and others in this transition.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

With the stability and structure of Capricorn supporting you this season, you can dive into the next year and phase of your life with confidence. For you this year has been especially influenced by learning from your past and separating from the life you’ve known. Take that growth and honor where you’ve been while confidently knowing you’re on the rise to see your dreams become reality.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

You took on a new role this year and that brought it’s challenges. All the difficult conversations you had wont stop, but you’re much better equipped to understand the opposing perspective and make your voice heard. Remember to be inclusive and respectful in these moments moving forward.

Sagittarius (November 22-December21)

When you came to the fork in the road and chose the path you’re on you didn’t even realize it was a choice you made, and it’s probably better that way. But now that you’ve wandered down this story a bit you do have the power to shake things up. See if you can make adjustments here and there to help guide you toward your dreams.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Dear, sweet, Capricorn. What a long strange trip this has been for you! It’s been a rollercoaster for sure but the thing is, it’s always going to be! We hope you have a moment to soak in the bountiful positive energy that is lifting you up and helping to keep you focused on what is important to you.

Aquarius (January 20-February16)

With the conjunction happening in your neck of the woods, there is an extra vibe of liberation and resilience. You have always done well in these environments and with this season usually being your time to reflect inwardly anyways, we urge you to keep that energy flowing.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Use Capricorn’s energy to reach out to those in your life who can help support your ambitions. That project that’s been in the back of your mind can become reality, and if you need an extra push then start by discussing it with a friend. Nothing will ever come of it if you don’t!

Enjoy the rest of the year and remember that just because 2020 is ending, that doesn’t mean you have to stop all the hard work and effort you’ve been putting in to become better at what you do!

Over the years we have found many different styles of scarves that we have brought into our eclectic collection! Stunning and affordable fashion scarves that are versatile and can be used for much more than a simple neck scarf. Many can be tied around the waist as a bohemian belt, or they can be tied in such a way to become a head scarf or unique hippie headband. We’ve found a few styles that we like to throw on any time! Find a video tutorial here and peek at these sweet styles below.

Boho Best Dressed Vest

We love this unique turn on how to wear a scarf! It’s the perfect look for when you want to show off that gorgeous pattern, but maybe the traditional neck scarf feels bulky or just isn’t good for your routine that day. See our video tutorial here!

 The Boho Bandita

It’s a simple process to look this good! We love this one for when it’s extra chilly and you need a bit more coverage! Watch the video tutorial here!

The Knot Fade Away

This classic scarf style has a little more to it than meets the eye. Do you always do the classic wraparound look but halfway through the day you have to readjust? Then this look is for you because it won't unravel on you! Watch the video tutorial here!

The Loop-de-Loop

This is similar to our last styling effort but it has a slightly different take! If you’re a fan of the infinity scarf then this one's for you! Watch the video tutorial here!

The Party Pretzel!

The fun of the party with all its twists and turns! Watch the video tutorial here!

The Rambling Rose

For some bohemian flower child vibes you can dress up any look with this gorgeous bloom! Watch the video tutorial here and for a unique headband idea watch this tutorial!

We hope these tutorials provide you with some stellar ideas for your next scarf adventure. Check out our vintage videos on our youtube channel for some more fashion hacks! Shop our full collection of accessories and don’t miss the new arrivals that come online every week.

As we come to a close on this moon cycle and enter into the next, the New Moon in Scorpio marks a perfect time to begin something new. Whether it’s bringing a fresh burst of optimism to your outlook on current events, or something as simple as clearing away the clutter to make room for new projects, any small changes you can make to prepare will be beneficial to you and those you surround yourself with. 

The Moon’s relationship to Pluto is driving us forward with increased momentum to achieve our goals, and as we said in our last horoscope update, this is being felt across the signs. Make room to spread out and grow into who you are meant to become. Be wary not to burn those who want to genuinely support you and make an extra effort to keep communication open with the ones you love. A sense of community is crucial to stay healthy through this period.

In other celestial news, the Leonid meteor shower is peaking this weekend through Nov. 17th! If you can get outside to observe them, we recommend finding dark skies before dawn (when the constellation Leo is highest in the sky) for the best viewing opportunities. This particular meteor shower is visible most years, but intensifies when the Comet Tempel-Tuttle is close to Earth. According to historians, this causes a meteor “storm” rather than a “shower” due to the denser conglomerate of meteors surrounding the true comet. 

In 1966 observers said they “almost needed to grip the ground,” because the sensation of Earth’s movement through space during the Leonid storm was so strong. Imagine! If it’s anything like the illustration we discovered below, we can see what they mean. The last perihelion (the closest point to the sun) was in 1998, so we will have to wait until 2031 until Tempel-Tuttle comes around again, but we’re happy to wait!

 Leonid meteor storm, as seen over North America on the night of November 12-13, 1833. This woodcut was published in 1888 by E. Weib in his Bilderatlas der Sternenwelt (Illustrated Atlas of the Stars). Image via Wikimedia Commons.

Cozy up with a falsa blanket to enjoy the show!

Shop lunar calendars to keep track at home!

Wool to keep you warm this season!