5 Things We Love is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. What are you loving this week? Send a brief description of your latest favorite thing, where to find it and how much it costs, along with your name and contact info to features@staradvertiser.com.
Felt sculptures are not for kids
Stuffed animals come in two basic types: children’s toys that are loved and played with and sometimes survive to become cherished childhood mementos, and those meant for display only. New Hampshire fiber artist Liza Hamilton’s beautifully crafted Felted Fuzzies are of the second variety — loveable but certainly not playthings. Her sculptures include carousel and jungle animals, dinosaurs, reef fishes and a life-sized green sea turtle. Many of the figures are created around a wire armature and are gently poseable. Prices start at $12 for little foxes, sheep and penguins; larger figures are $50 to $300 (the turtle is $2,200). Want a miniature version of the family dog? Hamilton does custom pet commissions for $125. See examples of Hamilton’s work at www.etsy.com/shop/feltedfuzzies; email her at wooliza@yahoo.com. —John Berger
Classics to Coldplay, choir is classy
Chances are you’ve heard the music of Scala & Kolacny Brothers but didn’t know it. The Belgium women’s choir — conducted by Stijn Kolacny with arrangements and piano accompaniment by Steven Kolacny — is big in Europe and has been featured in trailers for "The Social Network" and "Downton Abbey" and on an episode of "The Simpsons." But this isn’t your usual choir. Yes, the voices are angelic with all the gorgeous harmonies one expects in a classical choir, but the group covers everything from Linkin Park to Radiohead and Nirvana. It may seem like a gimmick at first, but one listen to Coldplay’s "Yellow" from the "It All Led to This" album and you’ll be taken in. Sample Scala & Kolacny Brothers via online music stores, YouTube and www.scalachoir.com. Perfect for a moody Sunday afternoon. —Christie Wilson
Motorcycle gloves help beat the heat
These motorcycle gloves are designed to give road warriors enhanced grip and protection, but I’m not exactly racing down H1 every day. I live just two miles from work. But anyone who’s gotten into a car parked outside at midday knows the painful sensation of grabbing a hot steering wheel. So, even though I’m no biker, I had to pick up these Harley-Davidson gloves for summer driving to protect my poor, delicate hands. This perforated leather, fingerless style ($44) is easy to pull on and off while appealing to my inner punk. Many more styles are available at Cycle City at 600 Puuloa Road and Harley Davidson boutiques. Sorry, can’t help you with the burn that comes when skin meets a searing-hot belt buckle. —Nadine Kam
Versatile tote carries everything
Go Caddy is a combination tote bag and water bottle carrier ideal for travel, walking or hiking. It’s large enough to hold a water bottle, keys, cell phone, camera, sunglasses and other necessities. The pleated pocket is designed to hold a passport, IDs and credit cards. An adjustable strap allows you to wear it over your shoulder or sling style. Available in black, brown and red. Priced at $19.99 plus $4.95 shipping at www.thegocaddy.com. —Lori Fukuoka, Wahiawa
Hardy red hibiscus brightens garden
If you enjoy hibiscus flowers and want to go native, try the koki‘o ‘ula or Hawaiian red hibiscus, also known as Hibiscus kahilii. Rare in the wild, I love it because it’s a hardy plant with glossy, green leaves and beautiful red flowers. It requires minimal care and watering, has few pests and can handle full or partial sun with ease. And it blooms year-round. Plant it individually to add color to your garden (it can be kept in a 3-gallon container) or create a hedge that will grow up to 10 feet tall. I bought one of the plants for $11.94 at Home Depot, but you can also pick one up from nursery supplier Hui Ku Maoli Ola in Kaneohe. Call 235-6165 or visit www.hawaiiannativeplants.com. —Nina Wu
