We had one of those days that reminds you why slowing down matters. We started at Cheesecake Factory. Easy, familiar, no rush. The kind of lunch that sets the tone instead of stealing energy. Conversation flowed. Nothing felt scheduled. Just time together. From there we headed to Neiman Marcus. This was the lingering stop. We took our time and smelled fragrances together, actually living with them for a bit instead of rushing paper strips. Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Creed, and Tom Ford all got proper attention. Maison stood out enough to land on my possible-to-buy list. My wife really liked it, which matters more than hype. Creed did not click for either of us. Nothing wrong with it, just not our lane. Tom Ford was interesting, bold in spots, but not the winner that day. Neiman Marcus also delivered on clothing. A Mackage jacket made its case. A Rails shacket followed. Rag and Bone denim did what it always does when the fit is right. Nordstrom was next, and that is where things settled. She picked up a Ralph Lauren jacket and sweater. Clean, classic pieces that feel calm instead of impulsive. The kind of clothes that do not fight the rest of your closet. While we were there, three pairs of jeans somehow came home with me. Rag and Bone and AG. No complaints. All day I wore Dior Fahrenheit. Familiar, warm, confident without trying to be modern. On my wrist was my Montblanc TimeWalker Chronograph, quietly keeping pace while the day unfolded. But none of that is really the point. The point was the walking between stores. The laughing. The small check-ins. Making decisions together. Letting the day breathe instead of trying to maximize it. Shopping was the excuse. Scents and clothes were the props. Time with my wife was the real luxury.

I woke up this morning and saw that In had reached Level 9!! I am completely Humbled. While I have been in these communities for only a few months, I have met (virtually) so many wonderful people that are so generous with their time and knowledge. The interactions are always positive and thought provoking! (which is rare these days) and I thank @Antonio Centeno @Antonio O. Centeno @Antonio Cent for keeping the no A-Hole policy in force!! This is truly a place where we can be individuals with our own version of classic style, but also help others early in their journey. It is truly a blessing. I am honored to have made it to level 9 even though I still feel like an imposter! That being said I want to thank everyone who I've interacted with! But specifically @John Witvoet and @James Milson and @Sean Kavanaugh for starting a rally cry to push me over the top. I was unaware how close I was and am truly humbled for their help. There is also the literal TON of people thatI really enjoy seeing their posts everyday and our conversations. @Jesse Alonzo , @Brian McGuire , @Raymond Reeves , @Anthony Buntyn , @Chad Smith , @Banjo Piggott Wright , @Michael McDonnell @William Feldtmose & @Robert Meyers ! I'm sure I've missed several of you, but please take my vote of thanks as well!! I am honored to be here with ALL of you and sitting at the General's table with the greats in this community is something that I am very proud of! Thank you ALL!! and I look forward to carrying the torch in the most honorable way I can!!