A New Decade ...

Happy Birthday to me. March is always a bit crazy with my annual trip to Austin for SXSW ... this year was a bit nuttier than usual thanks to an unexpected business trip to London than ran directly into my Texas travels. So, now, it's my birthday and I'm taking a moment to capture some of the the things I've observed, experienced or noted over the past few weeks.

• Everyone should fly business class at least once before turning 40.
  (warm nuts, Port, and a clean pair of socks ...)
  
• When shopping at independent record stores, always ask the person behind the counter what they're listening to - and buy whatever at least one item they recommend. It's a great way to discover new music.
  (I'm now listening to Jeffrey Lewis '12 Crass Songs' thanks to the guy working at Sister Ray records in SOHO, London)
  
• When photographing concerts, always be polite and don't interfere with the photographers who are there to earn a living and the fans who are there to enjoy the show.
  
• Always tip the waitstaff and tip the waitresses who card you really, really well.
  (thanks to the waitress at The Boiling Pot who carded me at lunch when I ordered a Shiner)
  
• Eat breakfast for dinner; french toast at night will make you smile.
  
• You're never old when you're with your friends.

And with that, I'm off to wrap up my birthday with a slice of lemon bunt cake and a viewing of 'The Breakfast Club' ...