No other piece of gear represents the outdoors better than a good pair of sunglasses, which protect your eyes from the glare of the fresh powder on the slopes and that also keep your retinas from burning on the beach. Because the hot summer weather is here, slip on your favorite pair of shades while listening to these sunglass-inspired tunes on your iPod:

"Sunglasses at Night" (Written and performed by Corey Hart)
The first single released off his debut album "First Offense," this was one of the most memorable techno love songs from the 1980's. According to several reports, though, Hart originally wrote "Sunglasses at Night" about a futuristic society where everyone had to wear their shades after dark. To make it more commercial, he was asked to change the lyrics.

"The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades" (Performed by Timbuk 3)
This high-energy song came off "Greetings from Timbuk 3," the debut album of the group formed by Barbara and Pat MacDonald. The lyrics are told from the perspective of a nuclear science student, who is blinded by his massive earnings potential. Pat MacDonald had said, though, that the song contained a grimmer message about the threat of nuclear destruction.

"Cheap Sunglasses" (Performed by ZZ Top)
Definitely an 80's tune, this ZZ Top song celebrates the glories of cheap eyewear, no matter if they help ease a painful hangover or accentuate the beauty of a pretty girl.

"Shades"(Sung by Dean Martin)
No list of sunglass songs is complete without one from Dean Martin, a member of the famous "Rat Pack" during the 1960's. Dino sang this romantic ballad about a brokenhearted man who hides his teary eyes behind dark glasses, but nothing can truly hide the pain he's feeling.

"Drivin' into the Sun" (Performed by Sherrie Austin)
More of a love song than a warning about sunshine slowdowns on the highway, Austin sings of a love so powerful that it is as bright as driving into the sun without shades. She also warns listeners that the light will fade, though, on even the most powerful love.

Resources:
http://www.coreyhart.com/
http://www.sherrieaustin.net/more.html
http://www.coreyhart.com/

If you're looking for some peace, quiet, and great beaches in the Hawaiian Islands, head for Kauai. It's a more popular destination than it used to be, but you can still find a stretch of beach to have almost all to yourself. The best? Poipu, of course!

Located on the southern shore of Kauai, Poipu was named America's Best Beach in 2004 by the Travel Channel. Besides the breathtaking sight of the golden sand crescents that form the beach, there are recreation opportunities on and near the beach and in Poipu Beach Park. Looking for snorkeling and swimming spots? There's a hot spot on Poipu that's protected from the surf, and a natural wading pool.

Speaking of surf, there are awesome breaks offshore. Heads up: the surf off Poipu is for rippers, so if you're less experienced, head for calmer waters off some other beaches, like Hanalei Bay. Guys, this is the place to sport your favorite board shorts like these by Patagonia.

If hanging out on the beach and soaking up sun is your favorite kind of day, there are six beaches within Poipu Beach Park. First place is clearly Poipu itself, but if it's crowded, try Mahaulepu, east of Poipu; popular with locals, it's a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and wind surfing. Got small children? Check out Baby Beach, a precious little cove with calm water. Take Spouting Horn Road to Hoona Road to get there, and stay between #5142 and #5152.

While you're sun worshiping on Poipu, don't forget your sunscreen, and remember to reapply often. Stun the rest of the layabouts in these Tommy Bahama swim trunks for guys, or a sexy little Tommy Bahama twist bandau top along with this Leaf Bazaar skirted hipster. To keep the heat off your feet, find your spot wearing Teva sandals for men, or for girls, the most comfortable flip-flops you'll ever find. Protect your eyes from the sun with Oakleys for men and these hot little Tifossi Optics for ladies.

Kick back, kick off your sandals, and enjoy this week's best beach ever!

Planning on doing some real back country hiking, skiing or snowboarding while it's still winter in most of the north and the high country? If you want to be sure you come back home again, without frost bite or a touch of snow blindness, dress for success - with style and function! Check the weather before you leave but make sure you're ready for sudden storms and changes in temperature.

From toe to head, it's best to dress in layers. You may want to start with a basic wool sock, since wool keeps you warm even when wet, or upgrade to a wool blend sock designed for hiking or one of the new eco-friendly poly blends. Next are your boots. You'll want sturdy hiking boots, insulated and waterproof.

Moving up a little, protect your legs with today's long underwear, a base layer with honeycomb fabric or stick with wool. Cover those up with an outdoor pant designed for comfort but with all the pockets and gaiters you'll need. If you want more coverage, try a windbreaker-type fabric over the top but bear in mind, you need to be able to move, and you want to let air out.

For your upper body, you'll need a base layer in a poly blend or a wool crewneck. Top that with your favorite sturdy shirt. If you'll be exerting yourself with climbing, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, your next item should be a down vest. It will keep your torso warm, but not too warm, while allowing freedom of movement. Finish off the top with a down jacket, a lighter weight one or for a daylight-only adventure, maybe a lightweight shell. If you're at a high altitude or it's just darn cold, you may want to go for a real parka.

Don't forget the accessories. You'll need gloves, a good fleece hat or a woolen one and very good sunglasses or goggles. Along with the necessities in your pack, these should keep you warm, dry and safe in a wilderness adventure.