*things*

at the end of the day, these are just *things*

Without much preamble, here is a short list of things that have put a smile on my face recently.

Some of my *things* featured here

Grass fed Milk

The natural sweetness of grass fed milk is unlike anything I’ve experienced from conventional dairy. When I pour this milk into my morning coffee, it’s as if I’ve known the farmer my whole life. When dairy is grass fed, dear Lord, it’s something to behold.

Nettle Tea

Apparently nettles are great for arthritis, so consider me 80 years old or just a freak for alt teas. The other tea in my rotation is roasted dandelion root (great for digestion). Does this say something about me that regular ole mint just doesn’t cut it anymore.

The Row

These twins got a grip on me I cannot escape. Every piece I’ve purchased from The Row is near perfection. The fit of the garments is unlike any other high-end fashion brand I’ve experienced. The moment the fine cottons, silks, cashmeres touch my skin a hit of dopamine is released. Capitalism is a powerful drug and the Olson’s are the new Sackler family. (Too soon?)

Ursa Major “Hoppin’ Fresh” Deodorant

I tried a series of “natural” deodorants for years. I won’t mention the ones I’ve spritzed and rolled onto my underarms but this deodorant is the one for me. Genuinely long lasting and it has a rather pleasant neutral smell that works with most perfumes. There is sometimes a bit of a cast that appears on clothing, however with a healthy wash or a trip to the dry cleaner, it’s like it was never there.

Diptyque Candles, specifically Cyprès

The piney, resinous scent wafting from the well trimmed wick of a Cyprès candle from Diptyque renders you to a meditative state. If you close your eyes, you can see the Mediterranean from your window. Wild oregano wafts from the kitchen, your skin is slick like virgin oil. You feel clean and sun-kissed. Yes, all of this can be felt from a damn candle.

Tejesta Sunglasses

These are not Jacques Marie Mage dupes. These sunglasses are made in Miami. When you receive the sunglasses in the mail you get a sense that a sunglass brand is about identity and values. The microfiber given with each pair is almost bandana sized. You get a set of matches and a unique case for the glasses with a description on heavy card stock about the inspiration. For a fraction of the price of Jacques Marie Mage everything about these sunglasses feels very special.

Carhartt Tee’s

My go-to tee. I love these. They wash beautifully. They hold up. They look great oversized. For roughly $25 it’s something you’ll have for a long time. Who cares if you can’t name any Unions, you still look great.

Vocalzone Throat Pastilles

Taking improv class seriously isn’t a bit. These pastilles actually make your vocal choices clearer. The minty/eucalyptus fumes force out any mucus and allow you to annunciate and project properly. Another brand I enjoy is Grethers. If you need to give a serious speech, pop one of these in.

Jil Sander ‘Cannolo’ Bag

I vowed to commit to one bag, my platonic “it” bag. I asked myself, “what does your bag say about you?” I wanted a chic shape, an easy closure with numerous options of wearability. The Jil Sander ‘Cannolo’ properly stores my wallet, keys and phone. This bag is made from firm/durable leather in an architectural shape that draws attention, but not too much. This isn’t a Moschino bag, this is pure Italian craft at its best.

The art of Jeremy Croft

Jeremy is a friend and more importantly an artist exploring the depths of his own creativity. When I visit him I see a new art book on the coffee table thats been meticulously researched. At a moments notice he’s ready to speak about a particular piece or idea he’s inspired by. Though Jeremy builds mystique into his work, just when you feel he’s honed a “style,” he veers leaving your jaw on the floor. Go see the works: here!