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November 28th, 2008
Most of the time, we live somewhere between reality and a 21-and-over Neverland where the bar is always open and all of our jokes make sense. These days though, it seems that the joke is on us. You see, we were fine when we sank a good chunk of our savings into an IRA for the first time and saw, a week later, its value plunge. Since we rarely drive, we weathered the $4/gallon gas without much complaint. Finally, we were great friends to, and bought rounds for, our WaMu neighbors who heard they had a 98% chance of getting the axe within the next quarter. So now that the markets are settling (respectively speaking) and gas can be paid for with pocket change, what did we find on our desks this morning at our day job? Yeah, the pink slip. Spirits are high in Neverland, though. With all the empty condos around, we think this is the year we'll give Squatting a sporting go. |
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Seattle Picks for Men: |
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| 1 | Better Than Ben Ballard has long been one of our favorite neighborhoods, and like a concerned parent we watch it grow and fret over who and what it chooses to hang out with. No, we're not talking about Crown Hill—but the cadre of condo developers who seem bent on whitewashing the neighborhood. Because of this, we walk the streets careful to note which stores close and what takes their place. When the Market Street Ben and Jerry's left town, we feared the worst. Thankfully though, Asher Anson—the new tenant—is one of which we highly approve. Specializing in casual urbanity, Asher Anson brings back sensible plaid and flannel via French Connection, unique wallets from MAKR, and solid denim from Joe's Jeans. Recently arrived Coal Headwear contributes the local flair just in time for a wet winter. And unlike the new development in Ballard, prices at Asher Anson are surprisingly affordable. Next time you're waiting for a show at the Majestic, swing by Asher Anson, check out what's new, and be thankful you're not standing in a 110-unit leviathan. Asher Anson |
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| 2 | Wine Expedition And we found a spot that even the great Lewis & Clark would have been proud to discover on their expedition. Located The Tasting Room is also a great location for a noteworthy holiday party (coworkers and friends, take note). But definitely take advantage of their Wine Club, because nothing compares to having Washington’s finest wines delivered to your doorstep to comfort you during an economic downturn. The Tasting Room |
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| 3 | What’s the Secret? |
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| Gratuitous Photo of the Week: | |||
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| Mandatory Gear: |
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| 1 | A New Winter Must One thing we've always loved about ski season is taking off those ski pants upon our return home, leaving us in only our long johns. Our bottom half appreciates the added warmth that our everyday boxers or briefs don't provide. In a "why didn't we think of that?" moment, we discovered |
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| 2 | A Sweet Deal Let's face it—giving ourselves license to eat horribly around the holidays is as American as, well, early onset diabetes. But since it is the holidays, we figure we should stuff our privileged faces responsibly. Check out the chocolate from Northwest outfit Theo. Not only is it the only organic, fair-trade bean-to-bar factory in the U.S., but it tastes great and they give away a portion of the proceeds to some pretty fantastic causes. |
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| 3 | Attention Dads and Uncles So we'll feel particularly cool this year when we give our nieces and nephews the Crayola Digital Video camera. Plus, the more cameras around at Christmas means more nog-fueled memories for later. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Winter Wonder-Beer Gotta love a beer festival for every season! Join Hale's Ales as they celebrate the mix of great Washington winter beers. Doors open early for Washington Beer Lovers (WABL) members. Grab a DD, some friends, (perhaps become a WABL member), and let's start drinking. What: Winter Beer Festival |
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Found Your Footage Join Central Cinema for The Found Footage Festival on December 4. Old videotapes found at garage sales and thrift stores have been mashed together into a two-hour long festival of strange and hilarious moments which were almost lost to time. A host will guide you through the greatness. What: Found Footage Festival |
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| 3 | Brunch & the Back Nine Enjoy the season and schedule a holiday brunch with the in-laws, your family, or just yourself at Newcastle's Santa Brunch. After stuffing yourself full of amazing prime rib, old-school French toast, and eggnog, slip out the back and onto the course for a quick nine. Who knew family events were so fun? What: Santa Brunch at Calcutta Grill |
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Want a free gift that is bound to please friends and relatives alike? Sign them up for a free subscription to www.SeattlePicksforMen.com or www.SeattlePicks.com. Who says no money can’t buy happiness? |
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