Hurricane Milton Came to Town
+++ 10/17/24 After Milton Update
Thank you everyone who has been asking about us. We're now open and catching up on orders.
On Wednesday night, Hurricane Milton passed directly over us here in Sarasota, bringing winds stronger than anything we've felt before.
Today, Don, our team, and I are feeling incredibly fortunate that we all made it through safely. We are grateful that our homes and warehouse were spared from damage.
However, our hearts go out to the people and businesses, especially those in the coastal communities, who faced the worst of it. In nearby areas like Siesta Key, Lido, Longboat, Ana Maria Island, and others, many homes were destroyed by the powerful winds, with even more damaged by ocean flooding. Close to us, St. Armands Circle, a favorite shopping district, suffered severe flooding with up to four feet of water, and the road to recovery will be long.
If you’re able, please consider supporting organizations that are providing much-needed help to those affected by this disaster. Here are our favorites but maybe you know of others
Assuming the power is restored, we expect to be able to resume shipping on Monday.
+++ 10/9/24 Before the Storm
Greetings Lucuma Friends,
The world is watching as a massive storm heads straight for Sarasota, the hometown of Lucuma Designs, and much of Florida’s west coast. Our team is prepared and staying safe, but we know the aftermath will bring significant challenges, and many in our community will need help rebuilding. Locals are already calling it the storm of the century, and we’re bracing for its impact.
Between the anxiety, fear, and sadness over the potential loss of property and lives this hurricane may bring, I also find myself in awe of Mother Nature’s immense power and beauty.
I must confess, there’s something about the wind that captivates me. It’s exhilarating, like a force of creative power and renewal. The wind purifies, sweeping away the old and making space for something new. So, alongside the worry, there’s also a sense of anticipation—of what new beginnings this storm may bring.
Despite the inevitable and heartbreaking destruction this force of Nature will bring, I can’t help but wonder—what is Mother Nature trying to tell us? I believe Milton will leave behind unexpected gifts, ones we’ll discover in due time. Perhaps HUMILITY is one of them.
As I woke up this morning, a silly thought crossed my mind: How is it possible that our "advanced" civilization has no way to slow down these monster winds? Then I caught myself and felt a bit guilty. Isn’t this arrogance what has led our world to its current state of disarray and imbalance? For too long, we humans have acted as though we can control, dominate, exploit and tame nature as we please, without realizing that in doing so, we’re not just going against Her—we’re harming ourselves, because we are part of Mother Earth, not separate. Ouch… I am guilty… So yes, a little humility may be in order.
Thinking about the many communities that will be affected, as the storm approaches, I’d like to share some trusted organizations that we know will be on the ground to bring relief and aid in the recovery. If you’re able, please consider supporting their efforts. Your kindness will make a world of difference!
Thank you!
Alessandra & the Lucuma team
