A Fine American Establishment

Great meals are one thing I feel that we cherish and likely never forget. Although it was a far from a fine establishment in New York, I'll never forget my first Chick-fil-A experience. Perhaps it was just a great day, as after playing Freddy Couples' signature Kelly Plantation in Destin we picked up a to go platter of nuggets. Our hungry group of teens ransacked the little bites of heaven swimming in the gooey Polynesian sauce. I'm not sure how far the chain reaches north, but I'm guessing it probably stops along with Cracker Barrel somewhere in the hell that is Ohio. Not only do I find the food, dessert, drinks, and service simply amazing, but I admire the owner who built a fast food empire based on character. While the Ronald McDonald Foundation is great, it takes a completely different breed of character to pay thousands of dollars of fines per week, not even considering missed business, simply because he believes Sunday is a day for rest. In a country depleted of integrity and character, it is my hope that the memory of such individuals will help rebuild our struggling society.

It's proved to a very peaceful rainy morning, as the first class of my final semester lasted a mere 20 minutes. With hours to spare before my next class, I felt it was the perfect time to check out the new establishment in our lovely college town. With great product, fine service, and free wifi to boot, it's hard not to enjoy. On a bit of an ironic note, just after uploading this photo a group of Buckeyes fans sat down beside me. Although I felt it was a sign at first to tone down my criticism, I was quickly reminded it was justified as the father poured out his leftover thermos coffee , IN THE TRASH CAN....no wonder Lebron took his talents elsewhere.

Thank you for your time,

JBH

Another Man's Treasure

As mentioned in my introductory post, I rely heavily on thrifting for not only my wardrobe but also as a hobby. There's just something about finding a hidden gem while flipping through the racks of vintage goods. While it is still in early development, I'm currently working with a group to open a vintage clothing store. I don't understand why so many view thrifting as being such a waste, as they obviousily have never experienced the fruits of the labor. In the upcoming week I plan to show off some of my prized finds, but in the meantime I would like to share this article from Brett at AOM.



Thank you for your time, JBH

Ideas Are Forever

Earlier this evening after some amazing Chinese and a movie, the lady friend asked me if I was afraid of 2012. In short, I answered absolutely not. While national tragedies and a growing sense of evil in our society leave me at times questioning the world, this simply is not enough to give up on society. I often spend time studying the lives of great men who left their mark on society, some who had only a short time in the world. In studying the likes of JFK, Steve McQueen, and Hunter S. Thompson, we find examples of men who chose a tougher way of life and in doing so left a great impact on society. Much has been said of the youngest Tuscon shooting victim lately and the great future that was taken from her. Many years ago, President Abraham Lincoln claimed that it's not the years in one's life, but the life in one's years which truly matters. While at nine years old her true potential will never be known, but it must always be remembered that when someone lives a life for a good cause, in death their idea lives on. In trying to figure out my future plans as of late, I am having trouble understanding how to truly be a positive impact on the world around me. Once again, I do not fear 2012, and I fully believe I will live to have a beautiful gray head full of hair, but if we knew it all ended tomorrow, what would be your idea that lived on?

Thank you for your time,

JBH

Snow Day Dreaming

It was nice to finally be able to squeeze in a game of tennis today, albeit indoors, I feel these sloshy winter days help remind us to be active in preparation the lakes and beaches of summer. I braved the snow quite well today, although my evening ended in somewhat of an icy situation. Like most, the Christmas holiday and spring break expenses have left my wallet a bit light at the moment, but it is the dream of brighter days that both motivate me to work even harder and plan my future endeavors. While I have never figured out what it is, something about me has always been drawn into a beautiful light brown leather. From my current dopp kit and briefcase to the Rolex Cellini I will certainly own one day, this shade-lighter-than-milk chocolate color has always been the sign of pure luxury to me. With my inauguration only days away, I am slightly upset that I will be trotting the halls of the Capitol in loafers. Unlike most objects, shoes are a very tricky item to locate secondhand, yet undoubtedly play the most important role in one's kit. Although my current selection is by no means slacking, I have dreamed for years of what the Italians have relied on for generations. While I prefer American made, I can't imagine anything across the pond being much better:

The McAllister by Allen Edmonds is everything I feel a dress shoe should be, and will play well with almost any suit one should ever wear. While I don't mind the traditional walnut leather, there is something about a beautiful tan shoe that brings out the best of a suit. I hope to have these shoes well before the Rolex, but my goodness how well they would go together. In looking at items like these, I often question my career goal of public service. On the other hand, I'm sure there are plenty of lobbyist groups out there lining up to buy me nice things, just ask House Speaker John Boner (nickname via "W").


Thank you for your time,

JBH

Unphasable

While yesterday's BCS title game failed to be the shootout most of the country expected, it still made for a very electrifying match up proving once again the southeastern supremacy in pigskin. My prediction proved to be a bit off, but if any gamblers followed my advice you took your bookie both ways (Auburn and the under). I hope my Auburn ladies enjoyed the lovely temperatures in Scottsdale while celebrating, but in the meantime another blizzard has made its way to the bluegrass. Although Bean Boots have endured many years as a foul weather necessity, I feel compelled to further endorse this iconic American product. First and foremost, do not make the mistake of settling for a cheaper imitation product, as my nearly frostbitten toes drug across campus in a pair last semester. At $90, I ended up going with the standard 8" model in classic tan leather, forgoing both the Goretex and Thinsulated versions. With a pair of thick wool socks, these standard classics have more than endured the single digit temperatures of the past few weeks.

While I am certainly ready to trot the fairways of St. Augustine in a few months, the well dressed gentleman has no reason to fear the winter. As the blizzard continues to relentlessly blow outside my Bean Boots sit dry and unphased by the fireplace in the den, ready for whatever mother nature may continue to throw at them.


Thank you for your time,

JBH

War Eagle!

From nearly every angle this past weekend was an absolute debauchery in my sporting world. After watching the entire UK sporting world tumble in a matter of 28 hours by thrashings from the NCAA, Pitt, and the dirty dogs of Georgia, I then rounded out my winter break by having a third row seat to see my Alma Mater get thrashed in basketball. While the games left little to smile about, I did enjoy testing out the  Bean Boots and new field coat in the blizzard that won't seem to leave Kentucky. In many ways I feel that we are currently in the greatest stretch of the American sports calendar, with the NFL playoffs heating up, conference play beginning in college basketball, and although a few months away we are edging closer to "a tradition unlike any other" in Augusta, GA. And yeah, for football fans there's that little game tonight between the Nike Ducks and sCam Newton. While it is questionable how the NCAA is letting it happen, I must stick to my SEC roots and cheer on the Tigers, not to mention the influence of a lovey group of Auburn fans I met in Panama City this past spring break.

Another fine representation of all that is to love in the south. As for the game, I'm predicting Auburn to pull away in the end of what is certain to be a shootout, 38-31. Although today's sports ramblings are far from what I imagined this site to be about, it is vital to understand the importance of sports and competition in the American lifestyle. I'll end today's post with the review of my most recent acquisition, the classic Timex camper watch.

After pondering over a new watch for sometime, I found the Camper on sale for around 1/6 of the price of the Timex for J. Crew. Overall I'm very pleased with the simple watch, although its plastic casing could be a bit heavier, or I could have shelled out the extra benjamin for J.Crew metal.

My only true complaint lies in the stock band. While I adore the classic military olive strap, I am very disappointed that it is sewn on, and will require being cut when I use other another band. Although lovely bands can be found cheap at both J. Press and J. Crew, I'm the type that doesn't like to waste or destroy anything, especially a Timex classic band. I hope we all enjoy tonight's conclusion to the 2010 college football season, and view the game for the classic American tradition that it truly is. War Damn Eagle!!!

Thank you for your time,

JBH

Maiden Voyage

Although a student of politics with somewhat of a specialty in American government, I will focus my writings on a more fashion based look into the daily lifestyle of an up-and-coming politician. While still at a young age I decided that merely fitting in with my generation was in reality a failure, and chose to hold myself to a higher standard of both dress and mannerism. The roots of my style can be traced to the WASP or Ivy League culture, although intertwined in every outfit are my southern roots and personal flair. I am a firm believer that while fashion carries a high price tag, style most certainly does not. In no way can I come close to the magic of Mr. Timore at An Affordable Wardrobe, however at times I will post various gems found at thrift stores I so dearly rely on. I hope you enjoy getting a look into a life that I hope will someday make a profound difference on society. While the blizzard hitting eastern Kentucky today hasn't really let me leave the house, I conclude by suggesting checking out the semi-annual sale over at The Brethren, paying particular attention to the Milano Plain-Front Washed Chinos. Available in many colors and ringing up under 25 bucks a pair, it may be the best deal on the web.

Thank you for your time,

JBH