In the market: The Seventh Heart Cadet Jacket and Talent Tote

A week or so ago, I went to a fashion show/open bar pandemonium event at the Sugarcube in Denver. It was a good time, if you happened to be there before the festivities got into full swing, and when the bar was actually reachable and wasn’t inundated with scene kids letting their buddies cut in line. Thanks, d-bags. That’s real cool. Any way, I spent most of the night half-cocked and propped against a wall talking to some girl I hit it off with, although I cannot now recall her name. Since the Sugarcube isn’t fully constructed and only the top floors have been completed and are livable, the area we were in resembled that of a warehouse, with, what I came to find, some pretty flaky, dusty, stainy walls. It wasn’t until the next morning when I found my jacket on the ground did I notice that most of it was white from whatever I was leaning against. And it won’t come off. This puts me in the market for a new cadet-style jacket. And isn’t it so apropos that I came across the Seventh Heart’s version the very next day? Yes, it is.

Furthermore, I have been making an effort to consolidate my reusable shopping bags. I think over this past year and a half, I have acquired nearly 20 of them from various companies, whether they be giveaways at farmers’ markets, park events, print shops, grocery stores, promo deals, etc. Adhering to the less is more philosophy, and perhaps to the Mitch Hedberg joke, spending an extra few bucks on a nicer bag would maybe make me care about it a little more. Sure, one that says “STEAL” in big black letters might not be the optimal choice, but I do like being the center of attention. Granted this attention might be that of the crack grocery store detective and security team… Hey. C’est la vie, right?

An ode to the landlocked sea lover and 90s nostalic: The Wooden Mariner Box and Zack Morris Art

I got it in my head this year to get family and friends gifts they’d never expect. Be it that authentic prison art, a vintage baseball bat, a picture of Zack Morris’s shoes (yes, I found it), or some other item of complete nonsense that may actually border on thoughtful. Neigh, it is actually more thoughtful, as gifts of this caliber require actual thought, gauging the shock and awe on the faces of recipients. I know my father enjoys the golf accessories I usually pack into boxes and wrap up for him each year, but imagine the look when he opens the Wooden Mariner Box. “So, Dad, let me explain. Okay, I know you have shown no particular interest in sea travel, nor did you grow up on the coast, but come on! How cool is this thing? It’s got a compass, a telescope, scale, levels, sight vane, and clinometer for determining angles and slope. I know! A clinometer! You’ve always wanted that. Or at least you never knew you did until now. Now you’re going to wonder how you ever lived without it.”

And while I’ve been on somewhat of an art-kick these past few days, as well, I know a handful of kids that would appreciate a bit of 90s nostalgia on the walls of their place. Good conversation starter, really, and isn’t that just the gift that keeps on giving? That’s the good thing about a print, assuming the recipient hangs it up; Every time they see it, or someone asks about it, you’re obliged to say, “Oh my brother (or friend, depending on the situation), Will, got that for me last Christmas. You like it?” The natural response would be, “Are you kidding? Zack’s shoes immortalized on your wall? I’ve been looking for someone like you forever! That Will sounds like a swell guy!” Aww, thanks.

Living vicariously through Chicago friends: Ork Posters opens its doors for the holiday season.

As big of a cheerleader as I am for this great Mile High City, I’ve got to admit, I get jealous of my Chicago and NYC friends when it comes to pop up shops and one-time events that Denver seems to not been looked to as a hot spot for yet. Oh well. One of these days, Alice. To the moon! Sure, it’s easy enough to board a jetplane to one of these fair cities and partake in the festivities, but after the cost of a ticket and budgeting time off of work, the funds left to spend on the goods offered would be minimal. It would be so much easier to hope on the Brown line and head to the Ork Headquarters to pick up a few prints from Frank Chimero versus having to plan a weekend, carting myself to the airport, finding a place to stay, etc.

For the meantime, i will keep my ear to the ground and my fingers on the pulse of what’s going on around town. Though it would be something to see some authentic Starshaped Press works in person, whic would make great gifts for a few select friends that appreciate the one-of-a-kind nature of their craftsmanship. I do suppose, though, that in this day and age of constant-connectivity and actually having friends that would be willing to go, I could convince someone to go for me and, in turn, do my shopping with the promise of reimbursement. Anyone game? At least even just to go and check it out? Anyone? You? You? Your friend? She have a sister?

Assume the unassuming: F.M. Allen in Franklin, TN added to the “must see” list.

As I have wanted to visit Nashville for some time now, going on a good four or five years, I have yet to actually finalize plans to do so. The lure of Chicago and New York have alwasy had the southern city playing second fiddle. Well, no more, I have decided. Finally establishing a connection there, too, has played a big part in making January my target month for getting there. Am I excited about possibly running into or merely seeing Jack White around town? Definitely. Country Music Hall of Fame? You better believe it. This morning, though. the icing on the cake came via instant message from my Nashville friend, notifying me of the “Malibu of Tennessee” and, among the lot of amazing bars and restaurants, F.M. Allen being there.

I’ve been a fan of the brand for quite sometime, hoping to strike it rich, preferably in oil, and being about to outfit myself in their goods. Though hitting pay dirt via the bubblin’ crude would be nice, perhaps gettin ginto the ivory trade would be more fitting, as Allen deals largely in Safari-themed items, whether it be zebra bow ties, hunting jackets, and/or deluxe travel bar sets. Having added this store to my list of “must sees,” I hope to have money leftover to patronize after hitting the distilleries, going on a ghost tour, and finding vintage music shops around town. Though my leftover money will probably only score me maybe half of one cufflink, it will be something to set foot in the shop. Now, how does one get into the ivory trade?

The new window shopping: Scoping the Ernest Alexander Balmoral Messenger and watching Vampire Party

As I am prone to do, I wake up early on the weekends with the sole purpose of mowing through my Netflix offerings that are currently at home. This past week’s batch was a particularly good one, but what was better was the addition of an extra flick sent from the company. I have no idea why, and when I headed to the site to see why, I was faced with a clickable “Why Do I Have One Extra Movie” button. Upon clicking on it, the answer was revealed: “We have sent you an extra movie from your queue.” Well, great. Why? Not that I mind, but, what? While I am still in the dark as to why I got an extra flick, I was pleased as punch that said surprise became one of my new favorite movies.

It’s easier, though, to do my own window shopping (online, on the couch, TV on in the background, StumbleUpon toolbar) during a movie I’ve already seen and one that does not require the reading of subtitles, two factors under which Vampire Party does not fall. I think I happened across the goods of Ernest Alexander during Beerfest, which I watched, I think, after I got in Friday night. Regardless, upon starting Vampire Party, or Les Dents de la Nuit, for my French-speaking amigos, I made a concerted and successful effort to unplug, put the computer away, and give the cinematic masterpiece my full attention. If you’re looking for a good date movie, I recommend this highly. If she gets it, you’ve got a keeper right there. If she’s more into watching Borat with you, I’d keep looking. Just saying.

Not everything on Etsy is a theory gift: Authentic Prison Art and a Vintage Baseball Bat

Well, it was only a matter of time, but my mom found Etsy and, in turn, Regretsy. Not that this is a bad thing whatsoever, as her fondness for some the site’s items re-peaked my interest, finding not everything on their is a complete waste of material. It is afterall, and after a simple search, a good outlet to find one-of-a-kind gifts for people that are semi-difficult to shop for. It’s like how Jimmy James has Matthew on Newsradio, we have Etsy. For the man who has everything, how about some authentic prison art from inmate 16569-4 at the Maine State Prison? For $8? Yeah I think that’ll go on someone’s list this year.

So maybe the thought of prison art creeps you out, or you’ve seen the episode of the Simpsons where Marge takes in the ex-con who is commissioned to paint Springfield Elementary’s mural, or, like me, you somewhere along the way, lost the bat Marvin Freeman gave you once used by the great Larry Walker of the Colorado Rockies…Well, $18 seems like a steal of a deal for a vintage baseball bat. Dad could put it in his office or we could take turns swinging at mailboxes. Especially in this economy. Baseball bat: $18. Memories of smashing stuff with your dad: Priceless.

Bowmentum on Hold. Commence the Bromentum: Drinking games, Red Wing Boots, and Restoration Hardware.

It has been decided that my older brother and I will be hanging out at my place tomorrow night with plans of destroying a few brain cells via The Fast and Furious Drinking Game I got all enthused about some time ago. I foresee, though, in between swigs of NOS Energy/Vodkas, discussion of holiday gift ideas, wants and must-haves will come up. Since Red Wing is among many of the companies of which we are both fond, I’m sure we’ll find ourselves on their site checking the stock. And he will remind me, again, that his girlfriend found a pair of Rugged Classics for $15 at Ross which, at JCrew, retail for $225. Not that I mind hearing the story though. If I had found them, or had a girlfriend cool enough to keep an eye out for Red Wings for me during a random shopping trip, I would brag too.

Come the end of the Paul Walker blockbuster (unless we’re on Tokyo Drift, which we won’t be), conversations about actually being able to afford Restoration Hardware goods could come up, as all he really wants for Christmas is a gift card to said home outfitter. I joked with him earlier today that if I got the gift card, the amount attached to it could maybe, possibly buy him a few lightbulbs. I’m not a cheapskate, and I am sure their Mayfair Independence Steamer trunk is worth every red cent it is listed at (seeing as how it’s bad as hell), but until I win the lottery or rob someone that does, it’s a little rich for my blood. Isn’t that the best part about the buzz? Forgetting what a budget is?

One last thing: Ideas for drinking games for Fast & Furious. The latest installment. What are your ideas?

A final update: The Animal Command Jacket

I know Winter has hit already, and the lot of us have already picked our colder weather garb, but I thought it necessary to tell everyone interested that the folks from Animal finally got back to me regarding the Command Jacket I reported on earlier this year. After a few updates and some semi-discouraging words from the company itself, the group buy discount seemed to have gone the way of the buffalo. That was until last week when their marketing department shot me an email notifying me that, if we were still interested, Animal could see to it to outfit the Momentum readers with the Command Jacket for a cool $100. Seeing as how the original price is $160, I’d say this is quite the deal. Here’s how we’re going to work this: Throw a comment down on this post so I can get some numbers together for Animal. The company is being quite generous with this offer, and we should be stimulating the economy. Let me know.

Sucker for the Holidays. Sucker for Email subscriptions to Bonobos and Rugby.

I’ve said earlier how hard it is to shop for my friends and family as we pretty much just buy whatever it is we want making is increasingly difficult to surprise anyone. That said, any assistance during the holidays in pinning down the perfect gift for each individual is much appreciated. That’s why when the phone chimed today notifying me of new items in the inbox for my respective email accounts from Bonobos and Rugby, I was more than pleased. Two of my favorite companies (right now) coming through in the clutch to assist with my holiday shopping? Score. Do I know anyone that would wear goods from these outfitters? Sort of. Is it the thought that counts even when that thought comes via someone else? Sure, why not?

I know more than a few kids that would like a nice bow tie from the Polo offshoot, and who couldn’t do with a nice pair of cords, am I right? Right as rain. And even though I did just drop $600 on a new TV, I think I can find room in my heart and on my credit card to properly outfit at least a few of those close to me. Luke, in his direct sort of way, already told me exactly what he wants, and it happens to not be from either of these shops. Still, that directness really makes things a great deal easier as it’s one less thing in life to fret over. My little brother, too, already told me. Now, would Mom appreciate a University Rugby or should I stick with the subscription to 5280 and a wine & cheese of the month club I had originally intended? Decisions, decisions.

Nostalgia & NYC: Diemme New Tirol Boots, a Pretty Green Overcoat, and the city streets during the holidays.

An NYC-buddy of mine asked me if I could find him a set of Red Wing Irish Setters for cheaper than they were listed on this one site he found. I said, “Probably. I will keep my eyes peeled.” Before I was able to pin down a pair of the classic boots, he notified he went forth with the purchase of a different pair for which to pound the pavement in and around Union Square. Of course that didn’t stop my search, it just changed the motivation behind it. Now I am looking for my brothers and myself and happened across the Diemme New Tirols. While the New York friend wanted a good pair for trekking the streets, I am in the market for a pair to trudge through the snow as I scrape my car windows before driving to work.

It is interesting though how one’s wardrobe shifts given their current locale. Interesting may not be the correct word as it is pretty obvious why that is (boardshorts would look mighty goofy in the Appalachian Range…goofier than they already do). But there are the other things that I find I have no use for. For instance, when I lived in New York, I wore overcoats in the Winter. I still have them, but they haven’t left the garment bags I packed them in when I left the city. Now I am still a huge fan of Pretty Green’s Herringbone offering, I just have no practical use for it right now. Should I ever grace the streets of a commuting city again, perhaps. For now, pea coats are fine.

Transition in Design: Posters of the WPA and the new Ork San Francisco 3 Color

In my recent attempt to throw some new art on the walls of my workspace and living quarters,  searches around this crazy thing we call the Internet (they have it computers, now) have yielded amazing results. Take the good with the bad, now I have to sort of decide which route to take, as I am prone to changing my mind quite often. Not just three weeks ago, I was all into transforming my living room into some nautical-themed space, complete with oars, vintage yacht club signs, old clocks, and other miscellaneous items. Now, focus has shifted, yet again, to the Posters of the WPA I first stumbled upon while perusing the pages of Hickoree’s. Speaking of, if you’re lucky enough to check out ACL’s pop-up Flea this weekend in NYC, you will be treated with presence from Hickoree’s and other fine companies.

Back to the subject at hand. Going the “places” route does fit nicely into my enjoyment of roadtrips and seeing the country through a windshield. And although it’s been years upon years since I’ve graced the hills of San Francisco, something has to be said for plastering the new Ork 3 color of the fair city on my wall. Come to think of it, though, I probably will hold off on any huge redesign or hanging any new art until a few other items have been crossed off the to-do list: New TV, closet reorganization, computer upgrade, new swords, film a reality show in which C-list starlets learn to ride Orcas for the enjoyment of B-list judges soundtracked by Lil Wayne, and getting new silverware. Man, this list is piling up…

- Will

Winter warmth: From the living room to the streets. Acorn for shut ins, Ibex for the cyclists.

Come the Winter months, I tend to get less and less adventurous when it comes to going out and about. Now, with the addition of the new Super Mario Brothers to my nightly (and early morning) routine, the likelihood of trekking out to events after work is becoming even more less likely, as if that was humanly possible. Say what you will, but after work and the hellish commute home, nothing sounds better than a glass of wine, turning up the heat, a little TV and video games, possibly some regrettable Facebooking, and sliding into comfortable clothes and a good pair of slippers. I’ve been eying this one pair from Acorn for awhile, anxiously awaiting the cold months when wearing them is appropriate. The Desert Boots would be good for those nights when I come to find I’ve run out of beef jerky and need to brave the elements for a few minutes as I hike to 7-11 across the street to get more without having to change in and out of different pairs of shoes. Because, how annoying is that? Very. Very.

Of course, I have to once again tip my hat to my bicyclist buddies and their ability to ride no matter the weather. You are braver men than I, and I can openly admit to that. Kudos. Perhaps wearing the right gear like an Ibex merino cap would prove beneficial should I decide to ride this Winter. But honestly, even the thought of leaving the cozy space I call home when it’s dark by 5pm is not making me want to jump at the opportunity. So let’s make a deal: If you are willing to ride your bike over to my place if and when you want to hang out, you are more than welcome and can have as many beers as you want. But hands of my Stranahan’s… That’s mine.

- Will

The Debunking of Ben Gibbard, Brixton Cutters and one bad-as-hell Blackhawk Knife

Sorry Mr. Gibbard, but I am going to have to go ahead and disagree with you when it comes to the glove box in my car. You mused that there was nothing behind that door to keep your fingers warm. Well, sir, the glove box is precisely where I keep my gloves. And as the mornings get chillier and chillier, I am quite glad they are there, as gripping the steering wheel without them is sheer hell. Now I should clarify that the gloves I currently have keep my fingers warm. They do not, however, keep my thumbs warm (thumbs aren’t fingers) as the seams blew out about a year or so ago, but since I don’t have use for them in the Summer months, I thought nothing of replacing them. I’ve talked in some detail about a new pair, be them from Filson, another set from Banana Republic, going cheap with H&M, or throwing a few bucks Brixton’s way for their Cutter series.

Well what do we have here? Could Brixton’s offering prove Ben Gibbard right, after all? They don’t have tips on them so technically they wouldn’t keep your whole finger warm. How much of the finger are we talking here, Ben? Let’s get a dialogue going. They would help in the gripping of a cold steering wheel issue, but they wouldn’t be of much use if I were to, say, park at a trail head, whip out a Blackhawk Mark II and set out to slaughter a Bambi’s mom to make into jerky, then, okay, you got me there. Otherwise, my glove box has become the forklift lifting a crate of forks: Literal.

- Will

Eleventeen again: A night of the New Super Mario Brothers on the Wii and WWE

Taking a step back from buying topsiders, ties, polos, khakis, and merino sweaters, I decided to dedicate 50 of my hard-earned dollars and purchase the New Super Mario Brothers yesterday during my lunch hour. I’m not all that huge of a gamer, granted, and I don’t get the whole craze of being able to connect to other video game fanatics remotely ala Vince Vaughn in the Breakup. Perhaps if I tried it, my opinion would change, but for the most part, I’m happy playing a video game from time to time without making a huge deal of it. That was until I picked up the latest installment of the Mario saga. I hadn’t actually played Wii in probably 6 months until Sunday when I started feeling bad about the machine collecting dust. It would appear now that my recent attempts to get out and about more will be put, once again, on the back-burner, as I foresee many a night staying in trying with great valor to rescue Princess Peach from the evil Bowser.

Anyone and everyone is welcome to stop on by and partake in the fun with me. Last night, though, playing solo was perfect. Though, I had to make a concerted effort to put the controller down, make dinner, and watch at least a little TV as to not finish the game in one evening. And what TV did I watch to complete the reliving of my youth? Wrestling. WWE wrestling. Although I don’t keep up anymore and almost every “superstar” in that organization is unfamiliar to me, last night saw the return of Rowdy Roddy effing Piper. Really. Wow. At any rate, the game is definitely worth the $50 seeing as how it is more of an investment in my childhood and furthering my never having to grow up. Not that I will soon buy a Bowser pillow, but if I wanted to and just have it out for game nights, I could.

You don’t own enough Woolrich Buffalo Check Shirts as is.

A tip of the hat to my older brother today for saving me a few dollars initially with plans to spend away come Thursday. Thanks, Luke, for reminding me that Woolrich is going to be featured on Gilt this week, as well as a few other choice companies that I would rather drop a little dough on versus what is going on there today. As I wait in hopeful anticipation for the goods from Woolrich to be featured, I went to their site and started making up a slight wishlist, fully stocked with their Buffalo Check shirts. Everyone needs one or three of these and not just for the obvious “It’s so damn awesome” reasons.

Every guy (read: me)  has the fantasy of being in the mountains on the weekends, amid the falling snow, outside chopping wood for a fire, carrying armfuls of it up the icy steps as the wind howls and whips through your bones only to come indoors to your girlfriend wearing your big, comfy shirt cooking up a massive batch of french toast to warm the soul. Or, given the time of day, nachos. Either, or, really. Just the though of it is making me want to punch out early today to make the dream come true. First up, buying the shirt. Second, finding that special someone. That’s crucial.

- Will

Come on, baby. Sweat with me until morning. It’s Friday and Cobraconda is playing.

I know that it’s Monday and most everyone is hating life, having to start another work week and all, but cheer up, young soldiers, Friday is just a quick 5 days away. To spare you from having to think of something fun to do, I will go ahead and say you should just plan on coming out to City Hall to dance and sweat and get out of hand with me and some of Denver’s finest and funnest DJs. It’s probably going to be a better time than what you already have planned, unless those plans include space travel, racing cars across Europe, a party at the Moon Tower, or watching the entire series of the OC and turning Seth’s quips into a drinking game. And since you’re not going to be doing any of those, you might as well join me.

Boulder buddies and 3OH!3 tour sharers, Cobraconda, will be spinning some tunes for the lot of you while you wait with bated breath to see if you win anything from Acropolis Apparel. You might want to bring your “A Game” as my camera will be charged and ready to capture your soul. For more information and to get down with what’s up, feel free to check out the Facebook Event page and purchase your tickets here. Now, in return for planning your Friday for you, why don’t you buy me a drink, and we’ll call it square. That, or like this past Saturday night, I may just have to insist on sleeping on your futon. My back hurts today, btw.

- Will

The Bowmentum of Failure: Let’s hear it for the ladies and their bow ties.

Do I keep coming back to BTUnique’s Etsy site because I am looking for a female-inspired bow tie of some sort for a good friend of mine because I made her a promise to find her something sporting the classic style of the bow? Perhaps. Do I visit regularly because I have a slight crush on the model? I’m not saying. What I will tell you, though, is that I do like BTU’s use of the neckwear. Plus, when I make a promise to a friend, I generally enjoy following through on it. Does it always happen? Hardly. But can I say with assurance that more oftentimes I do come through versus dropping the ball alttogether? As Tony Perkins says: You better believe it.

That said, I have pointed my female contingent the way of some good bow tie-related items, whether it be these or the bow tie sweater from last Friday. I realized though in my searching that I may not be the best source when it comes to neck-cessories for the girls/women out there. I mean, yeah I know what I think looks good and what I want to see on the lady of my desire, but when it comes down to brass tacks, I should probably be asking advice. So, let me have it, ladies. Would you wear a bow tie? If yes, How? Where would you get it? Etc. Answer any and all questions you can think of. Let’s get a dialogue going. Oh, and if you wouldn’t, why not? Is it because I have offended you? I hope not.

- Will

Generating Interest: Momentum of Failure meets Taylor Stitch

When I got a message the other day from Michael at Taylor Stitch, I was excited and flattered, and that was before we started discussions regarding getting some custom shirts made up. A few emails back and forth have proven fruitful as ideas on how we can work together have been talked about. I’ve taken a liking to these customized brands as of late, though my trips to J. Crew and late-night Rugby purchases haven’t ceased. This is just an addition to the list and another, more quality way, to blow through the bi-monthly paychecks. Savings? Psh. Un-American, I say. We need to stimulate the economy. And I can’t do it alone, people.

So in light of stimulation (heh), I will be working with Michael in designing a few limited edition button ups available exclusively through Taylor Stitch and Momentum of Failure. When this project comes to fruition, who would be interested in sporting the result of the hard work? Or, hey, let’s play this game real quick: Throw some ideas into the comment box as to what sort of material/design/patterns/etc. you would like to see for this limited edition shirt. Who knows, if we go with what you suggest, it may just result in you looking sharper for less in a creation you helped design. Stay tuned for updates.

- Will

All eyes on the Emcee of the White Elephant Party and Rugby’s Favorites.

Each year, my parents host a white elephant party and each year I somehow manage to take the spotlight as the emcee for the evening, calling out names, monitoring the trades, drinking wine, the whole sha-bang. I enjoy this duty on a number of levels as I dig being the center of attention and it saves me the headache of having to participate myself and wondering if I will end up with the “best” gift or not. Last year, I believe the choice present was some sort of talking alarm clock. The year before that was either a punching nun puppet or a set of Denver Broncos figurines, I forget. At any rate, holiday parties are perhaps my favorite part of the whole Yuletide scramble.

This year I am more excited though to play emcee what with the wardrobe overhaul. Frequenting the pages of Rugby.com and scoring deals at J. Crew in the mall has yielded some highly massive and quite good looking results. Today, for instance, I walked out of the Crew with a Chambray button up and knit tie for $35. Deal, Howie! And now with the unveiling of Rugby’s Party Favorites, who knows what’s in store for the pocketbook, or wallet, in my case. I already promised to bow tie it to the company party I planned this year, so we’ll see if I man up enough to go, too, with suspenders. Life is all about throwing curveballs. And I got a wicked one.

- Will

Reliving high school days in my late 20’s via Scout restoration.

I’ve been looking for a new ride for a bit now and haven’t yet decided on anything save for the fact that whatever I purchase has to be able to handle the mountains. I’ve been looking at Honda Elements, Impreza wagons, 4Runners, CRVs, Touregs, and a slew of other more SUV-centric autos. By the way, if you have any pointers, I’m all ears and very open to suggestions. Aside, when I get into one of my train-of-though modes, it yields some interesting results. I want a car to handle the mountains in the Winter because I want to partake in all the Rockies have to offer, including skiing/snowboarding. In college, I was able to clock close to 80 days of riding being that the school was a half hour from Crested Butte. Then I got to thinking about the kids I used to ride with and how one of them was a huge Scout enthusiast akin to the group of kids I hung out with in high school.And that’s how it started…

Putting off searching the pages of Craigslist for modern autos, I have now begun the hunt for an old Scout II to restore. Aware that this is probably the least fuel efficient choice I could make, and I am probably better off going with something new, but the want and desire, for the time being, are taking hold of my everyday and not letting go. It doesn’t help that with my focus now on Scouts, I am seeing them all over the place. In fact, this morning on the way to work, I saw the cleanest Travelall I have ever seen. Cherry red. Old guy driving. Primo shape. Maybe I’m better off saving for a few more years and making this restoration a retirement goal, or at least wait until I have a garage so I am not working on it roadside out side of my condo. Perhaps some of my old friends would be willing to part with their Scouts, given they still have them. Time to check Facebook.

- Will

Photos courtesy of Wisconsin Historical Society and ScoutParts.com

A good idea is one worth stealing. A nod towards my friend for the Penfield reminder.

Given that it has been in the upper 60’s lately around Denver, there hasn’t been much need for the Winter garb. I am going to complain about the sunny days, although they are getting shorter thanks to falling back an hour. It was actually kind of funny to see the world react to this change via social networking. Hashtags about the ludicrousness of the time shift, angry status updates, and WTF email forwards we abound, as well as some radio DJs ranting and raving about it. Me? I could care less, really. Let the clocks do as they may. I wake up, work, go home, sleep, and do it all over again until the weekend comes. Then it’s party time, aka, get the hell out of the city for a few.

Although it has been hot and mild in town, the mountains have already seen their fair share of snow and dropping temperatures. It’s perfect Penfield weather is what it is. And honestly, I wouldn’t have thought about the brand today if it had not been for a friend of mine reminding me just how choice their F/W 09 line is. As I’ve mused before, I am not a fan of wearing the same gear I hit the slopes in that night when I wreck Breckenridge. It stems mainly from how goofy the townies look in their “shredder” gear. Seriously, mate, the goggles-around-your-neck-look is just plain ridiculous at 10pm in a tequila bar. Yeah, I don’t care if they go with your all-over print hoodie fleece, and, wait a second, are you still wearing your snowboard pants? Alright. I’m outta here. Like Doug. Me and my bow tie. Goodnight.

- Will

An affirmation from me to me to you courtesy of Polo Rugby.

Sometimes we all need an “I’m just thinking of you…” reminder. And when it comes from that special lady friend (or guy friend, whatever), it’s all the better. But what about those without said gal (or guy) pal? Just because you don’t have someone to send and recieve sweet nothing to and from doesn’t mean all hope and a nice reminder that someone loves you are out the door.

Thanks to a checkout option (at no additional charge) at Rugby.com, I was able to fill a small void and satiate my heart’s appetite, at least for an evening. So next time you find yourself “Will Shopping” (aka: late night browsing of the Net with beverage in hand), check to see if you can send a little note your way. I know it made me feel pretty good, as I had forgotten I did it in the first place. New bow tie? $40. A surprise from me to me? Priceless.

Have a good day.

- Will

One step closer to the Yacht Club pub crawl and getting the Belted Cow Company in on the action.

This past weekend, like I said yesterday, I missed the Lumberjack Pub Crawl up Colfax which is literally two blocks from my place. As sorta semi-mad as I was about this, I decided to take said frustration and channel it into something constructive. So I hopped on the ball and announced the Yacht Club Pub Crawl. Getting drunk with other boat & sea enthusiasts in a landlocked state while wearing topsiders, wayfarers, captains hats and white pants? Maybe learning how to tie a few knots… Man, this is going to be one helluva night. Maybe throw in a nautical belt from Maine’s Belted Cow Co. for good measure and things are looking solid gold.

Admittedly (a word I love using it would seem), I didn’t hear about the Belted Cow until last night via my friends at Taylor Stitch, and that’s a shame, actually. Having the chance to check their stock of artist-designed totes, belts, flip flops and, what I’m most excited about, leashes and collars, I am anxious to to start to consider possibly maybe placing an order. Further than just offering nicely stitched goods, the Cow also offers the ability to have items customized for you. So, if I want to get a dog, name it, say, Pericles the Great, then, dammit, his leash and collar combo can reflect that better than if I just took a magic marker to a cheap one from PetsMart.

Brief side note: Careful what you Twitter. I mentioned the Pub Crawl to the Twitterverse and got a slew of replies from bots and borgs saying they will help me plan. One of them is actually quite brilliant, but I could have done without the lot of them. At any rate, if you’re in for a Yacht Club Pub Crawl, let me know.

- Will

Creativity is a privilege, not a right. Blank Label isn’t here to judge. That’s my job.

When I was asked by the blokes at Blank Label to create a shirt of my own and let them know what I thought of it, I was at first flattered, then excited, then extremely torn. I was eager to get on their site and see exactly what the deal was. When I checked out what the BL Crew had to offer, I bit off more than I bargained for. I knew ahead of time the company specializes in allowing visitors to customize their own button-ups, but I wasn’t privy yet to how exactly the process works.  After a little clicking around, the site unfolded itself into a rather fun experience and, actually, a good way to kill a little time whether you end up buying your creation or not.

When I refer to me being torn, it mainly had to do with the fact that, for the life of me, I couldn’t settle on any one creation. Going through the process of designing my shirt more than about 25 times, I did finally settle on what I think is quite the dapper design. It was easy to get out of control, though. There are many choices available to you as you make the steps towards completion. I stuck with stripes and a few minor contrasts, nothing crazy. Actually designing something I would wear was not as entertaining, though, as designing the most hideous creation one has ever laid eyes on. But therein lies the beauty of Blank Label. There’s not an “Are you sure?” or “No, I’m sorry. We won’t be making that for you,” button. When all was said and done with what I could picture myself wearing, I sent off my order to the gents and was promised a 21-day turnaround time which, to me, seems like a fair and short amount of time to go from scratch to shirt. When it comes, I will let the lot of you know how I like it. Stay tuned.

- Will

For the love of themed pub crawls and Sperry Topsiders.

Somehow I missed quite the spectacular event this past weekend: Seems a group of folks got together, donned lumberjack apparel, and proceed on a Colfax pub crawl in said garb. How I was not aware of this is beyond me, and I am actually quite upset I missed it on a number of levels. The first being the fact that the female contingent that dressed up were gorgeous. And a girl in lumberjack gear? Be still the ticker. The second reason, I want to meet some new people. So, I have decided to take charge and plan the next epic crawl, complete with new theme and route.

I’m officially announcing the Momentum Yacht Club Pub Crawl. If you’ve read any of my musings here, you know I have a sick affinity for all things boat shoes, topsiders, and nautical-themed decor. It seems though that everyone is doing this Colfax route, which means I need to find another path to take. If I could get Sperry to sponsor this thing, maybe throw a new pair of Topsiders my way even though I did snag a pair of Camper Mocs yesterday for $15 new, the night would be spectacular. We have a few sea-loving bars around town so there’s that option. Stay tuned for updates. Also, throw a comment down there if you’re into partaking in this. And a quick side note: I recently found out Colorado actually has a Yacht Club…the highest Yacht Club in the nation, as a matter of fact.

- Will

A first timer in Nashville and a planned trip to Billy Reid. Tally ho.

If there ever was a cheerleader to champion the finer points Denver has to offer, I would gladly be that bugle boy. I am already dead-set on never leaving here save for some plans to travel and see a bit more of the world here and there. I’ve never been to Tokyo or the UK or even Nashville for that matter. Of these places, it would seem that, after this past weekend, the country music capital is the next place to scratch off the list. I know I’ve got a trip to Portland planned as well, but what’s another few hundred for a ticket to Nashville? Not only would I have a quite stylish tour guide (thanks, Jeremy, for the introduction), I could cruise into Billy Reid and see if the email I got Friday afternoon is legit; a reader telling me how much he misses the NYC Billy Reid location after he moved.

Among my favorite activities when visiting another city is stopping into the one of a kind shops and outfitters native to the area. Yes, it’s always fun to stop into Urban Outfitters and H&M’s in other places, but I prefer cruising the side streets, finding little shops and curios to patronize. Like in Costa Rica four years ago, had I not been in a dusty alley looking for this rumored pizza joint, I wouldn’t have been offered what I am sure was the finest cocaine around. Unfortunately all my money was promised to the pizza and beer…or is it “fortunately”?

- Will

My little brother is anything but. Shopping for the Hulk.

I was chatting with my little brother the other day about what he would like for Christmas and what he planned on getting the rest of the family. My family is an interesting bunch. We’re all very close, but we’re also, in our own rights, extremely difficult to shop for. My mom buys anything she wants, as does my older brother, and Lord knows my little sister doesn’t need another toy. My dad is complacent with what he already has, and my little brother doesn’t really lead on as to what he would like. That was until our recent conversation to which I already referred. When I asked him, flat out, what he’d like, he responded with minimal hesitation: Hulk Hands. Done. He will undoubtedly read this, utterly ruining the surprise come Christmas morning, but that’s okay. At least I know he’ll be pumped.

Him wanting Hulk Hands, though, is very apropos, as they are the last things he actually needs. When I call him my “little” brother, I have to clarify said moniker with the fact that he is anything but. The kid is a 6′2″, 210lbs wall of muscle, cut from wood, and strong as an ox. His hands, compared to mine, already are hulkish. Adding to his already stunning physique would be like putting a lift kit on Gravedigger. If a sudden influx of funds comes my way between now and the First Noel, I would rather see him opening my gift and tearing the Muhammad Ali robe from the box, but we will have to see how I am doing financially first. If I had my way really, I would just go with both gifts. Hulk Hands and an Ali robe. Messin’ up any sucka that steps to him…though, as a seasoned and wicked awesome lacrosse player, he is already more than capable of doing just that. Float like a butterfly, etc., etc.

- Will

The Bowmentum of Failure

Friday couldn’t have come soon enough. This week was a beast wrapped in nails, razorblades, and barbed wire then dipped in acid and deep fried in viper venom. If you have ever had to physically call the customer support staff at Craigslist, you will know that this is not an understatement. I am continually flabbergasted by the responses I get when I sell stuff on that site. “Your ad says $400/firm. Would you take $250? And can you deliver?” Really? Get bent. How about that? Apparently the intelligence of the 95% of the responses I get is mirrored in the attitudes of the folks answering the phones at the CL headquarters. BTW, if you’re looking to kill a good hour or so of time, check out the street view of their offices. Okay, moving on. Given that it is indeed Friday, it’s time for another Bowmentum installment. And as I have been invited to an epic chili cook-off tomorrow in Fort Collins, it is a good excuse to first visit Boulder and check out the fine ties available at Colorado’s own Carrot and Gibbs. This comes off a recommendation from a good friend of mine. And rest assured, I will have a camera on me.

To deviate slightly, and I know I have alluded to this before, but girls in bow ties might just be my new weakness. To clarify, not just a bow tie is going to get me going. The whole outfit has to work. The cuter the better, obviously. Say, you’re donning the Bow Tie Sweater from Constance Eyre, I’d most likely be all about you. Is that a threat or a promise, you ask? I don’t know. Why don’t you buy the sweater, or one of those bows I was enthralled with a few weeks ago, I will take you out for a nice dinner, maybe Thai or some reasonable facsimile, we’ll drink a few, and see where the night goes. What do you have to lose? Nothing. Gain? The prospect of witty banter, a few free drinks, and, I don’t know, maybe a tattoo.

- Will

Timeless down to the details: Ray-Ban Clubmaster sunglasses and the 1950s Wolverine Gloves Advertising Bandana

A little while back, I traded my brother, strait up, his pair of Super sunglasses for my classic, black Ray-Bans, ala Marty McFly trying to blend in circa 1950. Do I regret this decision? Not whatsoever, as I look damn handsome in the crystal-indigo frames. Do I wish I still had my Ray-Bans, though? Lord knows that’s for sure. That’s why, perhaps, while on one of my frequent mall visits yesterday, I was stoked to see that J. Crew at Cherry Creek is now carrying their Clubmasters. Ryan, as you may or may not know as my personal shopper at that location, notified me that they may never be getting in the shades. Shenanigans, I say. He may just have wanted to keep them for himself, but I saw through that mumbo-jumbo and will be snagging a pair of my own come next paycheck, and pending any unforeseen (read: impulse, late night) purchases between now and then.

Speaking of the 1950s, though, if I had a friend I knew was traveling back in time, I would try to jot down a list of things for him to buy me while on his voyage. Side note: did Marty McFly have any friends besides Jennifer? He seemed like he was a pretty popular kid at school, what with the principal coming down on him all the time and having that bitchin truck. Plus he could skateboard. Where were all his friends? Would anyone have missed him if he never came back? If one of my cohorts had access to a Delorean, I would be their friend stat. And I wouldn’t be happy if he never returned from the 1950s, especially if I had given him a list that may or may not include Wolverine Gloves, PF Fliers, some baseball cards, candy, and maybe the title to a car I would have him store in a garage for 60 years. McWorld. Hey, it could happen.

- Will

America the Beautiful. Whether by car, jet, foot, bike, etc, the USA is worth the look. Even east St. Louis.

Among my favorite of road trips is the drive from Denver to the Grand Canyon. I’ve expressed this before, but I feel the urge to reiterate my like of said trip. I don’t know why, to be honest. It’s pretty boring. There is a lot of desert-esque type landscape as you drive through the Four Corners. I think it stems from the memories I have of doing the drive with an old girlfriend and passing through the area at just the right time of night: dusk. The moon was rising, and the sun was setting. The cacti were casting the last shadows of the day, the air was warm with a slight bite of crispness, the radio was off, and the two of us had our arms out the window. It was one of those, “I’m at complete peace with everything and happier than I have ever been,” moments.

Sure, just after this, we decided to stop at the creepiest store on the entire planet to see about some beer. Helpful hint: a bodega in the middle of the desert where a bunch of scuzzy dudes are hanging in front of is not the best place to take your girlfriend. Yikes. But even as the group of creeps followed us aisle-to-aisle before we got the hell out of there, that certain charm of being scared for your life is what makes it all worth living. And thanks to the cool art by the guys over at Tugboat Printshop, I can remember my trips on a map of this great nation unlike any I’ve seen before. I would think twice before sticking pushpins into $425 print, though.

- Will