826 Valencia, San Francisco

While walking down Valencia today in the mission, Pascal (on his last day of his visit here) and I wandered in to a Pirate Supply Store. Now, I recognize that there isn't exactly a market for pirates here in San Francisco -- or anywhere for that matter -- we didn't even dwell on the novelty of the store and dove into the experience. Everything about the store was wonderful: there were drawers to open where you'd find random treasures and big barrels with salts or crystals to slip your hands into. A little girl asked if she could have a piece from one of the barrels and the store manager said, "Sure, but if you want to take it, it's customary that you either sing us a song, tell a joke or draw us a picture as payment."

Then I learned that it was in fact a non-profit organization started by author Dave Eggers with a mission to get children excited about literary arts. Disguised as a Pirate Store, this organization brings children in to work with volunteers in writing and everything creative. I love it. AND, there is a group in NYC as well. They, however, are disguised as a Superhero Supply Co. located at 372 5th ave., Brooklyn, NYC.