Great post! Whether for business or personal, mastering hand-written notes will pay rich dividends in a man's life. I use them for all occasions - no matter how big or small. Many times the idea alone of putting pen to paper to express gratitude, congrats and sympathy induces a minor panic attack. So my tip to you is just remember that less is more. I've recently come across the book "Toasts & Tributes: A Gentleman's Guide to Personal Correspondence and the Noble Tradition of the Toast." It offers very valuable insight into personal correspondence, along with great examples of what to write for any imaginable occasion and better yet, what not to write - I've caught myself referencing this book on multiple occasions each week. Naturally, the authors are from Tennessee. Pick it up here: http://www.amazon.com/Toasts-Tributes-Gentlemans-...

You got me at the ski and kayak part - the crew here refers to me as "X-Games." But, bonus points to the lump charcoal reference. Welcome aboard, Trent!

I've always leaned towards cedar planks. Great tip - I'll give it a try this weekend.

There's nothing better than an old-fashion cheeseburger fresh off the grill (charcoal of course.) Keep it simple: brush a touch of olive oil & sprinkle a dash of sea salt just before you throw your patty onto the grill. Don't ever flip more than once or press down with the spatula - you'll squeeze the flavor out. Pending the size of your burger, 2-4 minutes over direct heat on each side is all you need. Allow the juices to redistribute within the meat by letting them sit about 3 minutes after removing from the grill - now you've got one hell of a juicy, falvorful burger. Wash it down with a Hefe or Sammy Smith's Pure Brewed Lager and you've got yourself a party. If you've got a sweet tooth like me, you'll want desert. My go-to is carmelized pineapple. Slice it up, throw on some brown sugar and cinamon, and give that goodness some grill marks.

You should hope so, Dan. In the meantime, www.EMS.com is very robust and offers all the gear you would find in the store. Use coupon code "SAVE20" at checkout for 20% off.

Awesome store indeed. It's nice to still find a place that offers all of the essentials you need, with a staff that lives for sharing their knowledge and experiences. They'll give you all the time in the world to answer all of your questions. During our visit, I purchased a pair of the "Profile" pants from the EMS Excursion Collection: the super affordable, SUPER LIGHT nylon zip-off pants have a rugged belted waistband, quick-release buckle, and water-resistant finish. As this weekend's impromptu hike, er, boulder climb proved, you'll be prepared for any change in weather or terrain. Check it: http://www.ems.com/catalog/product_detail_square....

Fret not indeed - there's an event shaking down this evening here in the city. Email me directly at sthorpey@gearpatrol.com if you're interested.

Glad to hear of another triathlete who's frame is more suitable to play fullback. The beginner's site you recommend looks great, Mark. I completed my first triathlon last season, and agree with Eric that there is no greater sense of accomplishment - I'm hooked! My eyes are set on Xterra Races (off-road triathlons) this summer. I've been training with the Helly Hansen Trail Lizard's and recommend them to anyone trail running or hiking: https://hellyhansengear.com/p-238-trail-lizard.as...

Good question - and one I asked during my first venture. Tips vary can vary based on your length of stay or services you receive. On average, I spend about $20 in tips on each "full service." $10 to the hairstylist, $4 to the shoe shine/bartender and $6 to shampoo/manicure. You can leave the tips discreetly in little envelopes, found on the reception desk as you exit.

Great options indeed. $17 for Loomstate T's? Buy them all! The Chambray shirt is another great option under $30.

http://www.target.com/Loomstate-Target-Chambray-S...