Gentlemen: Virtue and Merit

When I landed at SFO late last weekend, I witnessed a man greet what I presumed to be his wife, with open arms and a beautiful bouquet of flowers. He was grinning cheek to cheek so much that I couldn't stop smiling as I witnessed this raw moment of joy. The week before, I befriended a handsome stranger who walked me six blocks to work under his umbrella so I wouldn't get caught in the rain. When I visited with my Aunt & Uncle in Boston, my Uncle, without any hesitation, would open the car door for my Aunt and me every single occasion. Social decorum, kindness and thoughtfulness are some of the most attractive qualities, in my opinion. These acts of course go both ways, however I find it particularly refreshing in this day in age when I see men exhibit such niceties. My guy friends and male cousins back east are especially virtuous in this regard, however I seem to notice less of it out west. Mind your manners, gents!

The Affair

Is anyone else watching The Affair on Showtime? Dominic West is a hunk and the summer landscape on Montauk makes for a realistic setting for an extramarital scandal. It's my new favorite flick.

A Pool Pavilion

How fun is this pool pavilion? Looks like the perfect room for an evening soiree. I can see it now: Candlelight dancing against the floor to ceiling windows and mirrored wall, guests glittering in their cocktail attire enjoying caipirinhas and chatter. The room would be alive with cuban swing and jazz with all the possibilities for a mischievous evening or for the tame party goers, simply new friendships...

On Repeat...

Are you ever alone and you turn on "that song" that completely transforms your mood? You know, that song you turn on at max volume, sing along to and very quickly find yourself getting loose, in both mind and body. You'll think about teleporting in that moment to a particular place that sets you free. My song as of late is "Always Alright" by Alabama Shakes. Lead singer-guitarist Brittany Howard's soulful, deep, vocals bring me to a raw and authentic place. I saw them perform in New Orleans in May and would see them again in a heartbeat. Their 2012 album (above) is excellent in addition to the single release of "Always Alright".