Strong Island

With the mercury today reaching near-tropical heights (compared to the past few weeks), it's become clear that summer is around the corner. That means it's time to make sure you've got all the essentials for a beach trip, whether it be to the Eastern Shore or East Hampton. This (obviously) includes swimwear. If you're still sporting some baggy, cargo pocket-ed trunk, ditch 'em for a suit from Strong Boalt, by Palm Beach native (and Ralph Lauren alum) Amanda Boalt. Now in her second season, the suits are well cut and sport some gorgeous prints inspired by South Florida and the Bahamas. (And they look adorable on girls, too!) Throw on a white linen shirt and you're set for an après-beach cocktail.

Flying Fish Swim Trunks (Papaya), $145, Strong Boalt

Spectator Chic

Can't get over this inimitably chic photo of Jorie Butler Kent (of Abercrombie & Kent fame) and her son, shot by legendary society photographer Slim Aarons. You've probably seen it before. It's notable/beautiful/inspiring for any number of reasons, and has spawned a few similar shots.

Oddly enough, it got me thinking specifically about the director's chair as a spectator seat. I kind of despise those plastic and nylon camp chairs, and I think a folding director's chair provides a stylish solution for a spring/summer/fall outdoor sporting event. Sure, they might take a little more work, but I can't see Slim snapping a pic of anyone in one of these contraptions.

Instead, I'm picking up a pair of these to throw in the back of the car.

Screening Room | The Windmill Movie

The Windmill Movie, a beautiful and haunting autobiography of the late documentary filmmaker Richard P. Rogers was not put together by Rogers himself, but was assembled by his former film student (and tiemaker) Alexander Olch from 25 years of footage Rogers had never released.

Though shown in select theaters starting in 2008, the film was only released on DVD yesterday.

The film explores Rogers' life through self-reflexive footage of his plum upbringing on the East End of Long Island, his difficulties with his family and intimate relationships, and his ongoing struggle with his self-worth and desire to document his life. Toward the end of his battle with brain cancer, when footage becomes more sparse, Rogers' close friend, actor Wallace Shawn steps in as Olch narrates.

The Windmill Movie, $20.99, available here

Spring Awakening

Because even after hibernating all winter, I'm still a little sleepy. The fix, clockwise from left:

Clarins Men Undereye Serum

This gel goes on quickly and works fast to soothe puffiness. About $20, Amazon.com

Kiehl's Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer

The simplest in the bunch to apply, the roll-on stick contains cooling hibiscus extract. $18.50, Kiehl's

Lab Series Age Rescue Eye Therapy

The little tube packs a serious punch. Hypoallergenic and fragrance free for sensitive skin. $26, Lab Series

Nickel Silicon Valley Dark Circles Corrector

Has a slight green tint to visibly brighten your undereye area and neutralize dark circles. $50, Nickel stores (N.B. pronounced nick-ELLE, not like the coin)

The Cure for Cracked Hands

The dry winter air really does a number on my skin. It ain't cute. I've sung the praises of Kiehl's products before, and with good reason--I haven't been able to find a better hand moisturizer for the winter months than Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve. It's thick, absorbs quickly, and isn't the least bit greasy.

Kiehl's Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, $20 for 5 oz., kiehls.com

Photo Op | Pennsylvania Drive

A particularly picturesque driveway, abutted by two pieces of farmland, near Saucon Valley, Pennsylvania.

Faux Bois

On a crisp winter night, there's nothing quite like the smell of a wood-burning fire drifting through the cobblestone sidestreets of Georgetown. Since I don't have the real thing, I approximate with Diptyque's Feu de Bois candle. I love the gorgeous gray wax and the smoky smell of burning wood. Makes a fabulous holiday host/hostess gift, too.

Diptyque Feu de Bois candle, $60, diptyqueparis.com