10 Essentials
Every few months I'll look at YouTube and watch a couple of videos done by GQ magazine with celebrities showing and talking about their "10 Essentials". These are possessions or products that they use regularly and don't want to be without. I've made similar lists of my own just to help me think about what I use, enjoy, value and want to make sure to use to make my life feel like mine.
Here is a list:
- Hoka Bondi Running Shoes. Do I run? I do not, but I have terrible feet with a variety of pain issues. These shoes were recommended by a podiatrist as having the level of cushion I need (maximum). I also have custom orthotics in them - those are maybe more essential - and use Thurlo cushioned hiking socks
- Kühl Renegade Recon Hiking Pants. These are light, tough pants with extra pockets that don't show like "cargo pants". I just like them.
- Tom Bihn 16L Backpack. I don't know the model name as this isn't made anymore. I replaced another Tom Bihn backpack because this has a chest strap that keeps the straps from sliding off my shoulders.
- Aero Press Coffee Maker. This is an inexpensive plastic coffee making device that makes a concentrated "shot" like an espresso. I then add water to have an Americano. It is easy to use and just makes a good cup of coffee.
- Journaling Kit. I write in Seven Seas notebooks with Tomoe River paper (52 gram), using a fountain pen - often a Pilot 823 or Sailor Pro Gear.
- Wristwatch. I have more than one, but most often wear a Farer Lander IV GMT. It is British designed and Swiss made. It has a blue-green dial with the 12 numerals in white, and an orange second hand.
- Air Pods. I have a thing for headphones in general, and use these in coffee shops, when needed, as well as for listening to podcasts.
- Beard Trimmer. This is a cheapish model that I use for beard and hair (what I have left). Things get weirdly uncomfortable if the length gets too long.
- Kobo e-reader or Physical Book - I have to have a couple of books going at all times. In retirement I spend a fair amount of time reading - OK, a LOT of time. I have three library cards.
- Kosher Dill Pickles - there are a couple of acceptable brands, but I pretty much have a pickle or two every day. There are other food staples, but this is perhaps most specific to "me".
The video I enjoyed the most recently was with Jerry Seinfeld. He explained that he enjoys objects he considers to be the "quintessential" of its type. Something that perfectly captures and performs its function, and is timeless and long lasting. I love that characterization. I also like that his list was down to earth for a very rich guy.
Here is Jerry's list:
- Patagonia backpack
- Legal pads
- Bic pens
- Levis
- Peanut butter
- Wristwatch (Breitling)
- Swiss army knife
- Nike shoes
- Moka pot
- Mets cap
There are similarities in our lists! A backpack, something for writing, a watch, shoes, pants, and a coffee making device. I, too, have a Swiss Army knife that I have had for 49 years.