Around the Community This Week

Community Feature of the Week: Myles wrote an amazing story about how his best friend lost his dad in World War II. The ending is truly touching.

Jason asked, “What does leadership mean to you and what new standard could you set for yourself to become a better leader?”

Will is looking for advice on getting long-term disability insurance.

D Hanton asked how many is too many as it concerns sexual partners, children, and pets.

Chris asked, “What are you reading?”

Brad asked, “What are you listening to?”

Mikey is looking for suggestions and tips for a new cigar smoker.

Brian wrote an interesting post on the way we use cognitive distortions to rationalize actions that violate our core values.

Ray started a discussion on the funny things tourists do where you live.

Chris started a discussion on tv shows you can’t believe got canceled. While Leo posted a discussion on which shows you can’t believe haven’t been canceled.

Gabriel started a thread that will be dedicated to showing and talking about the home improvement projects you’re working on.

Matthew wrote an interesting post about being a truck driver.

Chris asked, “What is your American dream?”

General Interest Links

He Clips Hair, Not Conversation. (@NYT) An awesome story about the world’s oldest barber. Anthony Mancinelli has been cutting hair since Calvin Coolidge was president. Now almost 99 years old, he’s still going strong. Now there’s a guy with some stories to tell.

Be a Man: Get What You Want with Integrity. (@Tao of Bachelorhood). Is being an a-hole really the way to get what you want? Michael argues that knowing how to balance being polite and being assertive is actually the real key.

GI Joe ID Quiz (@Mancraft). And now for something with no larger social significance or meaning beyond having a few minutes of fun….an awesome quiz that tests your knowledge of GI Joe characters! How many can you identify?

• Weekly Round-Up: February 13, 2010
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: January, 16, 2010
• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Round-Up: January 30, 2010

The Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man Is Available Again!

The second print run of our first book, The Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man is now out and available in bookstores, on Amazon.com, and directly through the site.

Around the Community This Week

Shaun started a Man Facts Group, a group for sharing and discussing those amazing practical and philosophical tidbits that make up a man’s treasure chest of knowledge. Join up and share some interesting man facts!

Chris wrote a post about his all-consuming love for his son and dealing with the worry of anything happening to him.

Will started a great discussion about which images and aspects of manliness from the past we should discard. Lots of thoughtful responses.

Sean shared pics of all the awesome board games he’s made with wood and his manly hands.

Mark shared a great story of gentlemanliness in action. Nice job, Mark.

Stephen wrote a great post about the profound effect dressing well can have on how you feel and how people treat you.

Morgan wrote a poignant tribute to the heroic astronauts who gave their lives in the pursuit of the heavens.

J.A. set forth his thesis: “Real manly men like cats too.”

Shawn is going to be a dad in 176 days and is looking for advice, tips, and recommendations on getting ready for this momentous event.

Frank started a discussion about manly nicknames. Do you have one?

Chad wrote a post about the importance of living life to the fullest.

Don wants to know where you get your favorite hamburger.

Rishi is looking for suggestions and ideas to impress a lady on Valentine’s Day.

Theodore argued that women in the military should be allowed in combat.

James! wrote a great post about the key to good gift giving and how he finally got a coconut monkey for Christmas.

General Interest Links

Because Your life Isn’t Over (@The Art of Marriage). Many men avoid marriage because of the erroneous belief that it will “end” their lives. This article succinctly points out why this doesn’t have to be the case.

Admirals, Samurais, and Umbrellas of Honor. On his blog, Jason Martin wrote a great post which delves into the meaning of honor and what honor means in this modern world.

Disappearing Acts: Making a Sheffield Pocket Knife. (@The Guardian) An interesting audio slideshow on a dying breed-the artisan pocketknife maker. These guys are making knives just as they did 150 years ago. (Hat tip: Dominic)

• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Round-Up: January 23, 2010
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: February 20, 2010

Around the Community This Week

In addition to the great discussions we have every week in the Community, there are a few special things I’d like to draw your attention to:

AoM Community Fundraiser for Haiti Relief

AoM Community member Topher White has started a fundraiser challenge in the Community. If 25 members donate $10 to the Red Cross by texting “Haiti” to 90999, Topher has generously agreed to match these donations with his own money. There’s nothing more manly than helping those in need, so let’s rise to the challenge, men!

Saddleback Leather Briefcase Community Giveaway

This giveaway was created with input from members of the Community Man Bags Group and entries will be judged by them as well. The giveaway runs until February 1, so stop by, read up on the details, and enter to win an uber-manly Saddleback bag.

Now here’s a selection of what’s been going on this week in the Community:

Sean showed off some of the furniture he’s made himself. Very, very impressive.

Theodore argued the case for mandatory military service for men.

James wrote a post about the manliness inherent in speech and wondered where the TR’s and Churchill’s of the world have gone.

Bennett started a great discussion about the best lessons your dad taught you and shared what a tough, sacrificing bad ass his dad was.

Gerado started a discussion about your definition of manliness. Lots of good responses here.

John argued that laziness was in the ultimate in unmanly traits.

Shay wants to know, “What’s the best way to become an electrician?”

LShieldes started a vigorous discussion on why he doesn’t generally believe in getting dressed up.

Gregory started a discussion about retirement. Will you work until you’re dead, or find some other kind of purpose in your golden years?

Dwayne wants to hear about your experiences with airport shoeshines.

Leo had a great post on the proper shirt colors to wear to work.

Jamie started a discussion on the most pressing question of our time: Conan or Leno?

• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 28, 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Round-Up: December 19, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: January 30, 2010
• Weekly Round-Up: January, 16, 2010

Art of Manliness Gentleman & Scholar Tee Now Available in Black

Due to popular demand, we are now offering our Gentleman & Scholar tee in black in addition to red. Check out all of AoM’s Tankfarm-designed tees here.

Around the Community This Week

Community Feature of the Week: Tony visited what may be the oldest gym in America-and shares what he learned about it and some great pics. The gym was built inside a Victorian mansion-talk about man space! Very cool. Check it out.

There was a lot of great discussion around the Community this week! Be sure to stop by and lend us your two cents.

In the Man’s Best Friend Group, Mike challenged members to do something this year to help shelter/rescue dogs. Are you up for the challenge of helping poor pooches?

Mr. Saleem Huepenny posted an article about the death of strongman Joe Rollino. Joe was the epitome of a time when men were men-he died at 104 and stuck to his fitness and health regimen until being struck by a minivan and killed.

Jonathan invites you to share your favorite inspirational speech.

J.A. shared how he helped a girl who was receiving some unwanted attention from a jerk. And thus earned major gentleman points.

Mr. Menard is looking for advice on kettlebell workouts.

Jesse is looking for recommendations for a good bottle of single malt scotch to get for his dad’s birthday.

TrekkinDave is thinking about becoming a nurse and wants to hear from men already in the field.

Tanner wants to hear about your manly space. What are the most masculine things you have in your house?

Adam wrote up a post entitled: “10 Useless Fact to Impress Your Mates With.” And it is exactly as advertised. Do you know what the “WD” in WD-40 stands for?

Ron wrote about his truly admirable and manly 90 minute morning ritual. Ah. I can smell the sausage right through the screen.

Don wrote a nice post about a favorite father/son ritual he had in his boyhood. Breakfast at a diner, a trip to the barbershop, and a nutritious snack: grape soda and a chocolate bar.

Sean is going to be writing posts sharing what woodworking projects he’s working on in his workshop. In this first post he shows us a card table he made for his mother. It’s a real beaut! You can see more pics of his workshop here.

Tool-wielding Ape discusses the very interesting research behind the reasons we swear.

Pylon asked for advice for how to deal with a young boy who has a problem being dishonest.

Chris argued that a man should be completely and totally honest in all his dealings in life.

• Weekly Round-Up: January 30, 2010
• Weekly Round-Up: January 23, 2010
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: October 17, 2009
• Weekly Link Round: Week 3 of 30 Days to a Better Man
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009

Announcing the Winner of A Tailored Suit’s Sports Jacket Giveaway

Many of you had fun designing your dream custom tailored sports jacket in order to enter A Tailored Suit’s Sports Jacket Giveaway. But as always, there can only be one winner, and that winner is Mike P. Mikey is sure going to be looking handsome in his custom tailored jacket. If you didn’t win, consider purchasing a jacket or suit from A Tailored Suit. Owner Antonio Centeno is an incredibly friendly, incredibly knowledgeable man, and I’ve never met someone so passionate and dedicated to making quality, well made clothing and making sure all his customers are 100% happy with their purchase. I don’t get paid a penny to promote Tony’s stuff; he’s just the real deal and A Tailored Suit is a company you can truly get behind.

Announcing the Winner of Two Tickets to the “Big Game”

Congratulations to Joe Lucero of Fort Worth, Texas, who will be headed with a friend to the “Cooper Dole” come February 7th. A big thank you to Dockers for sponsoring the prize. And for encouraging men to wear the pants.

Around the Community This Week

Community Feature of the Week: Ray Daniels wrote a post about his father, their complicated relationship, and coming to see each other as fellow men. Powerful and well-written. A must read.

DFJ is considering becoming part of a Men’s Group of some sort. Do you have experience with one?

Clayton just got into wet shaving and travels a lot for his job. He’s looking for tips that make traveling with your wet shave kit easier.

Eric wrote a fantastic post about what a great man his grandfather was.

Will wrote a great post about trying to understand another person’s point of view.

Dallas started a discussion on male rites of passage.

David wants to know your dressing and grooming goals for 2010.

Travis wants to know what kind of art you like.

Bela warned people away from law school.

Thomas started a vigorous discussion on whether western society is in decline.

Adam wants to hear your biggest high and biggest low for 2009.

General Interest Links

8 Qualities of a Man Evolved (@Man Evolved). Mark’s started a new blog where he explores the qualities and skills he thinks an authentic, balanced and dynamic man should embody. Here he lays out what he believes are the 8 qualities of an evolved man.

David Sheldon truly took our “45 Manly Hobbies” post to heart and has made a resolution to try as many on the list this year as he can. You can follow along with his attempts at learning woodcraft and starting a stamp collection at his blog.

Iron in the Blood (@Arthur’s Hall). If  in reading our hobby article you felt a twinge in your heart as your read the blacksmithing entry, be sure to check out at this article. A blacksmith’s ode to the beauty, the blood, sweat and tears of blacksmithing as a hobby, a profession, and a way of life. (Hat tip: Richard).

• Weekly Round-Up: December 19, 2009
• Congratulations to A Tailored Suit Custom Shirt Giveaway Winner
• Reminder and Update: Enter A Tailored Suit Custom Dress Shirt Giveaway and Get a 20% Discount
• Weekly Round-Up: January 30, 2010
• Weekly Round-Up: February 13, 2010

Availability of the Art of Manliness Book

If you’re looking for a copy of Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man for Christmas, please read this post on the availability of our book. Your best best for finding a copy is looking at your local bookstore and particularly at Borders. They also seem to be available from Hastings’ online store.

Announcing the Winner of the Schott NYC Jacket Giveaway

Jacob Elling of San Antonio, TX  made 1,085 (1,086 counting myself!) other men jealous when his name was drawn as the winner of our Schott NYC giveaway. If you didn’t win, consider buying one of their handmade, Made in America jackets with your Christmas money. Better bundle up in something manly because the weather outside is getting frightful.

Around the Community This Week

Tanner started a discussion about misandry in the media.

Stephen wants to know where he can buy a good suit.

Kevin wants to know what notebooks you use and what you write in them.

Jason offers some thoughts on morality.

Leonard wants to know: “What’s one thing you will do to improve yourself this year?”

Stephen is looking for service project ideas he could do this Christmas season.

Sean wants to know: “Is opera un-manly?”

Todd wrote a blog post about men who make excuses for their failures instead of just manning up.

Ray wrote a blog post about the difficulty in setting a good example for his sons when dealing with his ex-wife.

Topher argued against being too nostalgic about the past.

General Interest Links

Must read of the week: Icon: Clint Eastwood (@GQ). Every interview with Clint Eastwood is always gold. He’s simply the man. In this interview he waxes philosophical about manhood and life. Just an incredibly enjoyable read. (Hat Tip: Kenneth C.)

10 Things to Do by the End of the Year. (@Code Name Insight). Here are 10 things to do to get ready for the new year and make sure 2010 goes smoothly.

Advanced Body Weight Workout. (@Nerd Fitness) Don’t belong to a gym but want a workout that will kick your ass? Steve Kamb’s got an easy to follow (but not easy to do!) workout that can be done at home without any weights.

• Weekly Round-Up: December 11, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Roundup: Getting Our Lives In Order Edition
• Weekly Round-Up: January 9, 2010
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Roundup: Last Call For Voting Edition
• The Maxims of Robert E. Lee Giveaway Winner

November was a busy month on The Art of Manliness. Here’s a quick recap of what’s been happening on the site for the past month.

Most Popular Posts In November

Here are the 5 most popular posts in November:

The 35 Manliest Mustaches of All Time

50 Best Books for Boys and Young Men

Guide to Drinking for the Teetotaler

The Art of Manliness Holiday Gift Guide 2009

How to Escape a Sinking Car

The Art of Manliness and Movember

During the month of November,  the Art of Manliness participated in Movember, an annual fundraiser to raise money for men’s health issues. The Art of Manliness Movember Team raised $8,046 during November. That’s amazing! A big thanks to all the AoM Movember Team members who hit the pavement soliciting donations and thanks to all of you who donated money. And a very big thanks to Shaun Daws, who orchestrated the AoM effort from the land down under.

We had a contest among the AoM Movember Team to see who could raise the most money. Of the 145 members of the Art of Manliness Team, these 3 gents brought in the most dough:

First place: Michael Miller. Michael raised a whopping $1,260 during November. For his efforts,we’ll be giving Michael a “Box of Manliness,” filled with manly goodies like a Merkur safety razor, a badger hair brush, Taylor of Old Bond Street Shaving Cream, a Case Pocket Knife, a manly handkerchief, and one signed copy of The Art of Manliness book. Thanks for the manly effort, Michael!

Second place: Ryan Gorman. Ryan raised $665 and will be receiving a sweet Movember t-shirt and a pair of mustache cuff links.

Third Place: Terrance Curry, who raised $550. Terrance earned himself a Movember t-shirt.

Terrance and Ryan, if you see this, please contact me so I can send you out your prizes.

Thanks again to all those who helped make Movember a resounding success!

The Saddleback Leather Company “A Manly Bag For Your Manly Book Contest”

Right now we have a contest going on and a Limited Edition Art of Manliness Saddleback Leather Briefcase is up for grabs. To enter, you just need to submit a photo of you doing something manly while holding a copy of our book, The Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man. There are just a few days left until the end of the contest. Don’t put it off and miss your chance to win one of the manliest briefcases ever made. For more details on how to submit your photo, read the contest announcement.

In addition to submitting a photo into the contest, make sure to enter the giveaway we’re having for two other Saddleback Leather Company products. There are three ways to enter. Find out more here.

Deadline to enter the contest is Monday, December 7, 2009 at 11:59 PM CST.

The Art of Manliness Book

Only 20 days until Christmas! Make sure to pick up a few copies of our new book, The Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man, for all the men on your Christmas list. They’ll grow hair on their chest just unwrapping the book and thank you for helping them become a better man.

Art of Manliness T-shirts

We added 6 super manly, super cool t-shirt designs last month. Show your Art of Manliness pride with one of our 12 manly t-shirts from TankFarm Clothing. I’m partial to the AoM screaming eagle design myself.

The Community

The blog isn’t the only part of the Art of Manliness site. If you’d like to connect with other men who are interested in rediscovering the lost art of manliness, make sure to join the Community. We have nearly 5,000 registered members from all over the world. In the Community, you can share manly pics, write a blog post about a manly skill, or take part in one of the hundreds of discussions going on.

Subscribe

You can subscribe to The Art of Manliness by the following methods:

Join over 26,000 people who receive The Art of Manliness via email by supplying your address.

Enter your email address:

Make sure you confirm your email subscription by answering the confirmation email you get after signing up.

You can also subscribe through RSS.

Every subscriber gets access to our popular Guide to Being a Gentleman eBook.

Be sure to follow Art of Manliness on Twitter. Each day we provide inspiring manly quotes and cool man trivia.

• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• A Manly Bag For Your Manly Book: The Saddleback Leather Company Contest/Giveaway
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 28, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Movember Contest 2009
• Congratulations to Saddleback Leather Company Man Bag Giveaway Winner

The Art of Manliness Movember Team

The first week of Movember has come and gone. How are those mustaches coming along? The AoM Team has raised $2,466.50. Here are the top 5 team members:

Michael Miller    $ 580.00
Paul Fournier    $ 300.00
Adam Bradley    $ 200.00
Chuck Balog    $ 295.00
Ryan Gorman    $ 195.00

Our goal is to raise $10,000 by the end of the month. Please help us reach our goal by donating to the Art of Manliness Movember Team.

Support the Art of Manliness Movember Team by Buying a Copy of the Man’s Guide to the Holidays Ebook

If you’re not growing a stache, but you want to donate to the Art of Manliness Movember team, here’s an easy and fun way to help out. Starting today, we’ll donate 50% of the purchase price of every Man’s Guide to the Holidays ebook that we sell to the Art of Manliness Movember team. Click here to buy an ebook right now; you’ll get tons of manly holiday tips and you’ll help raise money for men’s health issues like prostate and testicular cancer and male depression.

Picks from the AoM Archives

The Uncle Buzz Workout: How to Get in Shape Without the Gym

Your Personal Appearance: The Importance of Being a Sharp Dressed Man

Teaching My Son to Be a Man

Around the Community This Week

Denis wants to know what you do to relieve stress when your plate is enormously full.

Killkiddo wants to hear your desert island list. You get one movie, book, album, drink, and weapon. And a volleyball, of course.

B.J. is feeling really burned out at work. Got any advice for him?

Mark started a great discussion on how to change society’s perception of men. Lots of insightful comments.

In the John Wayne Appreciation Club, Yankee Cowboy Bob shared stories of when the Duke took some bad falls while filming his movies but kept on trucking.

Clark started a discussion on how a man should wear a scarf.

Nicholas started a discussion on ways to get out of the doghouse.

Brad posed the interesting question: “How far will humans advance?” Have we hit our evolutionary peak?

Paul started a discussion on morality and deviance-are people born good or born evil?

James! wrote a great blog post about how he scared kids on Halloween.

David wrote a blog post about what it’s like in his new role as stay-at-home dad.

Herb wants to know what you want for Christmas.

Links from Around the Web

Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. If you love good soda, you’ll love this video about Galco’s Soda Pop Stop. Here’s a man who’s passionate about real soda and runs an awesome store with hundreds of interesting and unique brands and flavors. Banana soda? Cucumber soda? Awesome. (Hat tip: Andrew Barbour)

The Gentlemen’s Ten (@The Gentlemen’s Standard) In this excellent article, Glen Antoine Palmer lists the ten things he never saw his dad do, but which he is determined he’ll let his children see him do.

The Black Tie Guide. Every man is at his most dapper when he’s dressed up for a black tie affair. But do you know how to do it right? This website is the ultimate resource on everything black tie, from its history to modern and vintage styles. (Hat tip: Stephen Arksey)

Revising and Reworking a Failed Financial Plan (@ The Simple Dollar) While this post is geared towards financial plans and goals, the ideas in it are applicable to any facet of your life. When things aren’t working out for you, instead of doing more the same, take a step back and see if your approach is completely wrong.

Terry Tate: Office Linebacker This is an oldie, but a goodie. Every office needs an office linebacker. Productivity would shoot through the roof!

Always Say Your Name (@ Social Primer) A simple reminder to introduce yourself when you meet new people. Also has great advice on what to say and not say when you remember a face, but not the name.

Is Barefoot Running Really Better for You? (@ Nerd Fitness) Barefoot running seems to be all the rage right now, but is it really an improvement over running with shoes? Nerd Fitness investigates.

Fathers Gain Respect from Experts (and Mothers) (@ NY Times) It seems for the past century, dads have been portrayed and seen as inept parents. See Homer Simpson, Al Bundy, The King of Queens Guy. But parenting experts are finally giving dads their due. Experts are starting to appreciate the different parenting style dads bring to the picture. It seems fathers use discipline and play to encourage risk-taking and problem solving, both important skills in the development of a child.

Create the Perfect Mustache (@ GQ UK) A fun article for you gents growing your mo’s for Movember.

Cigarbox Nation Who would have thought there’s an entire community dedicated to the cigarbox guitar? AoM reader Shane Speal introduced me to the world of cigarbox guitars and I have to say I’m smitten with it. Definitely want to make one for myself. If you’re looking for a cheap and unique alternative to the classic guitar, check out this site.

• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 28, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: November 2009

Last Chance to Join the Art of Manliness Movember Team!

Movember starts on Nov. 1. So today is your last chance to sign up and join your AoM brothers in a month long effort to grow a manly stache and raise money for men’s health issues. Up for grabs is a sweet Box of Manliness, full of manly booty. There are currently 3 official AoM teams: an American team, a Canadian team and an Australian team, although you don’t have to be from any of those countries to join them. Right now we have 72 men signed up. I’d love to see the AoM Team have 100 members kicking prostate cancer’s ass.

Be sure to sign up for the Community Movember Group; Shaun Daws has been sharing news and updates and has a FAQ section to answer your queries. If you joined another Movember team but want to be included in the AoM tally, leave a link on the other teams page.

Get the Man’s Guide to the Holidays eBook

It’s Halloween today and thus the holiday season is officially upon us. Make the most out of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the winter season by reading up on the myriad of manly tips and tricks found in our new ebook: Man’s Guide to the Holidays.

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: Topher White wrote a great blog post in praise of the tuxedo that covers what separates a tux from a regular black suit and how to wear one with style.

Starting off where Monday’s post on manly loyalty ended, kpeckham started a discussion on where loyalty ends. If you must choose between loyalty to a friend and loyalty to an honor code, which do you choose?

Bryan wants to know what helps you get out of bed in the morning, especially in the winter.

Ray is looking for suggestions on how to get a kid who doesn’t like being active up and moving.

Killkiddo is looking for suggestions on strong and manly names for a son.

John started a discussion about the US military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.

Yankee Cowboy Bob asked, “What would cause you to look down on someone and consider him less of a man? Or, what have you done for which other people have looked down on you?”

Joseph wants some ideas on how to take one’s political beliefs and turn them into real action.

Mike started a discussion about the way a boy’s natural instinct to fight has been suppressed.

Preston made a list of the things he’s done and will do to become more self-reliant. What have you done?

General Interest Links

Check out one of my new favorite blogs: Nerd Fitness. Steve Kamb presents solid health and  fitness advice for average joes in a way that’s accessible and humorous. A great site.

Build Self-Confidence Like a Leader (@ harvard business publishing) We’ll all serve in some sort of leadership position at some point in our lives. Marshall Goldsmith provides five tips on how you can develop the self-confidence you need to lead others. My favorite tip: Don’t worry about being perfect.

Classic Cinema Online This site is amazing. You can watch old movies for FREE right on your computer. Ever wanted to watch Mr. Smith Goes to Washington? Here you go. Like old Westerns? They have 83 of them you can watch right here.

Men and Women of Industry I stumbled across this cool style blog. I’m totally digging the Game Warden Look. Reminds me of my grandpa.

• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Round-up: November 7, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: November 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 28, 2009

The Art of Manliness Book Now Available on Kindle

For you futuristic fellows who have no patience for old school paper and ink, the Art of Manliness book in now available on the Kindle.

Support the Art of Manliness Book

If you enjoy the Art of Manliness blog, please help a brother out by getting the word out about the Art of Manliness book. Let’s spread the manliness from coast to coast. Here are some ways to lend a hand:

• Ask your local bookstore to carry The Art of Manliness book.
• If you have a blog, write about the book.
• If you enjoyed the book, write a review of the book on Amazon.com.
• Add an overlay to your Twitter avatar to help support the book.

Around the Community This Week

Andrew sets out 10 guidelines for having a proper debate or agrument.

Brian wants to start a weekly “Gentlemen’s Night.” Do you have a weekly night where you get together with your buds? Got any tips for one?

Tim’s going camping and he wants to hear your sugestions for great camping meals.

Jack is looking for advice on how to overcome one’s insecurities.

Preston wants to hear about the fears you have faced or need to face.

Sarge wants to know what “simple living” means to you.

Jack is looking for good books for a man to read before he turns 21.

Kyle wrote a blog post about seizing the day and bettering yourself.

David wrote a blog post reflecting on how to teach respect for authority to his son.

Yankee Cowboy Bob wrote about why he’s a flaming liberal when it comes to gentlemanliness. He’ll explain.

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

The 35 Greatest Speeches in History

10 Manly Feats of Strength

How to Pack a Bag When Traveling

General Interest Links

3 Men Who Died From Shaving (@ mental_floss) This is a guest post we wrote at mental_floss on men who have died from shaving.

Wedding Ring Debt (@ frugal dad) What advice would you give this young man on whether he should go into more debt to pay for the wedding rings?

Anvil Shooting (@ you tube) Some middle aged guy in Missouri packs gunpowder into 100 pound anvils and shoots them off 200 feet into the air. Hey, it takes all kinds.

6 Things You Can Do Today to Change Your Child’s Life (@ zen family habits) Being a great dad doesn’t take much. Just a bit of time. Here are 6 easy things you can do to be a better parent today.

Square America Lots of great vintage images here. You’ll seriously spend hours on this site looking at them all.

The Impossible Cool Another site with lots of cool vintage images. Take a look.

The History of Football Helmets Really cool site where you can see the evolution of college and professional football helmet designs.

• The Weekly Link Round-Up: October 17, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 14, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Link Round-Up: Help an AoM Reader Get on Mad Men Edition
• Best of Art of Manliness: September 2009

Signed Copies of the Art of Manliness Book

You can now order signed copies of the new Art of Manliness book through our site. Even if you’re not hankering for our John Hancocks, if you reside in a far flung place of the world where the book is not yet available, this is a great way of getting your hands on a copy. See this page for details.

New Prize Added to the Art of Manliness Community

As you may or may not be aware, by participating in the Community you earn manliness points that can be redeemed for prizes. Since the huhman has captured our then highest prize, a Hawaiiabera shirt, by earning 4,000 points, we’ve added another golden ring for members to aim for. The fine men at the Mountain and Sackett tie company, the makers of the world’s only 100% handmade regimental tie, have graciously donated their handsome ties to the cause. The first 5 men who earn 10,000 points will be richly rewarded with a Mountain and Sackett tie.

As a side note, Mountain and Sackett will be doing another giveaway with us in November. So stay tuned!

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: Philip Rodney Moon wrote a great blog post about “The Five Acquaintances Every Man Should Have.” Do you have these important men in your network?

William would like to hear from members of the military and the family of military members about ways we can help support the troops.

Bryan is looking for advice on how to respectfully resign a leadership position.

Jeff is looking for tips on how to craft an effective elevator pitch.

Yankee Cowboy Bob wants to know why a man should keep a journal.

SamwiseGrangee started a discussion on why listening to and understanding classical music is important and asked for feedback on readers’ favorite composers.

Jamie started a discussion on public education versus alternatives like private school and home schooling.

Scott started a discussion on taking an interest in one’s ancestry and is looking for tips on how to do genealogical work.

Nathan wrote a blog post about how starting a blog where he posts 10 things he’s thankful for every day helped alleivate his depression. It’s an awesome idea, and you can check out his blog here.

Behold the most important painting in the world! In James!’ world at least.

General Interest Links

Zen Family Habits. Leo Babauta, the man behind the popular blog Zen Habits, has recently started a site dedicated to helping people simplify family life and improve family relationships. If you’re a dad, check out Zen Family Habits and subscribe.

Militaryboots.com is holding a contest to find the world’s most battered, tattered, worn-out pair of boots. Participants must submit a photo of their boots and a story of where their boots have been. The winner gets a lifetime supply of boots. (Hat tip to Dan O’Connell)

Woodworking Magazine held a contest where they asked readers to turn an Altoids can into a working tool. The results are pretty cool and interesting. (Hat tip to roadbelow)

50 Rules to Being a Gentleman (@ king mag) One website’s take on the rules every gentleman should follow.

18 Minute Plan to Managing Your Day (@ harvard business publishing) Looking to get more done during your day? Take the advice of consultant Peter Bregman and start a daily planning ritual. The kicker is you don’t need to spend an hour or even thirty minutes planning. 18 minutes spread throughout the day will do the trick.

• Mountain and Sackett Tie Giveaway: November 2009
• Weekly Link Round-Up: November 28, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: January 23, 2010
• Weekly Link Round-Up: October 31, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: New Redesign Edition

Fall is in full swing here in Vermont. The fall foliage has almost reached its peak. Kate and I have climbed several mountains in the past few weeks in order to enjoy this spectacular display of nature’s splendor.

The biggest event in September here on the blog was the start of the Art of Manliness Podcast. We’ve received very positive responses so far to this new aspect of the site. Over 8,500 of you have subscribed to the show via iTunes. Thanks for the encouragement and feedback. I’m still pretty green behind the ears, but I’ll be trying to improve each week.

October will be a very exciting month for the Art of Manliness. The Art of Manliness book will be launching this Monday, and we have some cool stuff lined up for that day. Kate and I have been working on the book for over a  year, and we’d love to see it be a monster success and put manliness on the map! Please check back on Monday for more info about the book. Hopefully, what you’ll see will motivate you to go out and buy it!

Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boot Giveaway

Last week we ran a fun giveaway for a pair of Wolverine 1,000 Mile boots. Over 1,000 of you left a comment to enter. We had a good time reading them, well, maybe not the 6 mentions of the lyrics to a certain Proclaimers song. Unfortunately, there could only be one winner, and that lucky man is Jack Wapner. Congratulations, Jack! We hope you enjoy taking your Wolverine 1,000 Mile boots on many adventures.

September’s Most Popular Posts

Every Man Should Be Able to Save His Own Life

How to Unclog a Toilet

The Different Types of Manliness

Dealing with Male Depression

How to Be a Hobo

The Community

The blog isn’t the only part of the Art of Manliness site. If you’d like to connect with other men who are interested in rediscovering the lost art of manliness, make sure to join the Community. We have nearly 5,000 registered members from all over the world. In the Community, you can share manly pics, write a blog post about a manly skill, or take part in one of the hundreds of discussions going on.

Art of Manliness T-shirts

Show off your Art of Manliness pride with one of our 6 manly t-shirts from TankFarm Clothing.

Subscribe

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Be sure to follow Art of Manliness on Twitter. Each day we provide inspiring manly quotes and cool man trivia.

• The Best of Art of Manliness: August 2009
• The Art of Manliness: Best of July 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: October 2009
• The Best of Art of Manliness: May 2009
• Best of Art of Manliness: November 2009

Art of Manliness Contests

With 1,043 comments already, readers are clearly pretty fired up about getting their hands on a pair of Wolverine 1,000 Mile Boots. Who will be the lucky man to bring these sweet puppies home? Get out your rabbit’s foot and be sure to enter if you haven’t already by leaving a comment about where you’d wear these boots, emailing a friend about the contest, or joining the Community Boot Group. The deadline to enter is Monday at 11 pm EST. In the meantime, check out some of the entries to the contest; many are quite humorous and creative.

Art of Manliness Offers

El Grande Kahuna, friend of AoM and maker of the awesomely manly Hawaiiaberra shirt, is offering a new special to Art of Manliness readers. You can now get the original Hawaiiabera shirt, which are normally 64.95 for only $24.95! Hot dang that’s a good deal. Just enter this code when you check out: AOM. If you’ve been on the fence about buying one of these manly shirts, now’s the time to do it.

General Interest Links

Knots and Knotting (@ international guild of knots) Once you’ve mastered the 7 knots every man should know, check out this site and start learning even more complicated and interesting knots. Many of the knots on this site are decorative. Who knew knot tying could be an art?

How Can I Make Preparing for a Baby Less Expensive (@ one caveman’s financial journey) Preparing to welcome home a baby? This article from a guy who calls himself the “caveman” offers 8 tips on how you can save money on your bundle of joy. For example, don’t buy one of those $40 diaper Genies. It’s just an overpriced waste basket.

10 Life and Money Lessons From Immigrant Parents (@ wise bread) A lot of our grandparents and great grandparents were immigrants. They had to stretch every dime in order to make it in their new country. Here are 10 life lessons we can all take from them.

Around the Community This Week

Community Highlight of the Week: If you were inspired this week by our podcast on the Band of Brothers, you should know that one of the legendary men of Easy Company  passed away this summer: Darrell “Shifty” Powers. Shifty was featured in the HBO series “Band of Brothers.” Community member Asa McGuire shared an email that’s been passed around the internet about an encounter a man named Mark Pfiefer had with Shifty and the great shame it is that people like Michael Jackson are given national memorial services, but the deaths of real heroes go unsung. Here’s our little bit to remedy that. RIP Shifty.

Darrell Powers

13 March 1923 – 17 June 2009

Forum

Christian is thinking of joining the National Guard. Got any advice for him?

Steve wants to participate in a triathlon. Do have any advice on training, preparation, and mental preparedness?

Jamie wants to know: “Who ARE you?

Sept. 23 officially left us with 100 days left in this year. David wants to know what you’re going to do to finish 2009 well.

While losing one’s job can be a real bummer, some men can turn unemployment into an opportunity to start a business. That’s what happened to Mike, and he wants to hear your stories of unemployment and entrepreneurship.

Peter wants to learn how to surf, but alas, he lives in Canada. Where is a good place to learn the sport? Have you been to a surf school or surf camp that you can recommend?

Blake is looking for advice on what to pack for a ski trip.

Terry recently lost his father. He’s looking for other men who have lost their fathers to share their feelings about losing their model of manhood.

Groups

Michael started a new group, Veterans of Desert Storm/Shield.

In the PhotoGroup, Mark started a discussion on films and other media about photographers and photography.

In the James Bond Appreciation Club, Jamie asked, “Who would YOU cast as the next James Bond?”

In Heavy Metal Fans, Justyn asked, “How important are lyrics in black or death metal?”

In AoM Audiophiles, Michael started a discussion on headphones.

In the Real Shaving Group, Amateur Adventurer asked for advice on where to buy shaving supplies.

In the Man Bags Group, Robert started a discussion about taking care of your man bag.

In the Manly Character Group, Herb wants to hear about good comebacks from great men.

Blog Posts

Todd wrote a post about the unfortunate way we’ve destigmatized stupidity.

Andy wrote a post about the passing of a great man you’ve probably never heard of: Norman Borlaug.

The huhman presented one side of the health care debate and Topher presented another. And Amateur Adventurer argued that health care is not a human right.

Symplectic made a detailed proposal for a new third party: the Farewell Party.

The Yankee Cowboy wrote a post about how you present yourself to others.

• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• The Weekly Round-Up
• Weekly Round-Up: February 20, 2010
• Weekly Round-Up: January 23, 2010
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

Lessons in Manliness: Theodore Roosevelt and the Spanish-American War

Do More Than One Stinking Pull-Up

Are the Suburbs Killing Your Manhood?

General Interest Links

100 Things to Do During a Money Free Weekend (@ the simple dollar) We’re all trying to stretch our money further these days. Trent at The Simple Dollar came up with the idea of having “money free weekends.” Basically, you pick one or two weekends a month where you spend absolutely no money. In this article, he gives 100 suggestions of things you can do during a money free weekend.

High Five Nation (@NYT). This is one of the best things I’ve read in awhile. Columinst David Brooks talks about the humility of the World War II generation and how that culture of humility has ebbed away.

Stache Bash.Do you live in the St. Louis area? Do you have a mustache or wish you did? Do you listen to John Oates on your ipod 25 times a day? Then you better makes plans to attend the Stache Bash put on by the American Mustache Institute, the institute that makes all other institutes look like gatherings of sissy schoolgirls.

30 Days to a Better Parent. Over at the Dad of Divas blog, they’re running a 30 Days to a Better Parent series. They’re a week into a the project, but I think it would be easy to catch up. If you’re a dad, I highly recommend taking part.

Tyler Durden’s Guide To Personal Finance (@ man vs. debt) I love the movie Fight Club, so I was happy to see Man vs. Debt extrapolate personal finances lessons from the film. Remember, you are not your khakis.

Car Manuals for Old Cars | The Old Car Manual Project Do you have an old car you’re working or or restoring, but are missing the owner’s manual for it? Check out the Old Car Manual Project. They scan and catalog owner’s manuals for cars going all the way back to the 1920s. Even if you don’t own an old car, it’s fun to check out this interesting piece of history.

A Nation of Wimps (@ psychology today) A great article on how we’re sanitizing childhood and raising less resilient kids. We wrote about not coddling your kids a while back ago and it generated a lot of discussion. Do you agree with the Psychology Today article? Are we raising a Nation of Wimps?

Around the Community This Week

If you haven’t yet, make sure to join over 4,500 manly men in the AoM Community.

Forum

Is intoxication ever an excuse for your behavior?

What is the proper protocol when dating more than one woman?

Johnathan started a discussion on “moments of manhood.” When did you transition from being a boy to being a man?

Dave asked for advice on how to do a written budget.

Amateur Adventurer started a discussion about political correctness.

Mike started a discussion about Kayne West’s jackassery and about other examples of jackassery.

Trey started a discussion about what he feels is the discouraging direction the country is going.

The huhman started a discussion about why men hate going to weddings.

Asa started a discussion about manly tv icons.

Groups

In one of our newer groups, Men of the Dutch Oven, Robert started a discussion on what kind of cast iron cooking gear you own.

In AoM Do It Yourself-ers, James shared a great list of websites where you can get DIY project ideas.

In the Philosopher’s Group, Shaun is looking for a group mottoand wonders “Who is the manliest philopsher?”

In the Writers Group, Topher wants to know what inspires your writing.

In the Evangelists of Manliness Group, I talked about supporting the Art of Manliness by becoming a fan of it on Facebook.

In the Exercise Group, Mark is looking for advice on losing the middle aged gut.

In the Men in the Kitchen, Mike bought up the fact that breakfast has always been thought of as the man’s meal and wants to know what you eat to kick start your day.

In the AoM Boxers, Adam wants to know your thoughts on tonight’s fight betweenMayweather and Marquez.

In the 21rst Century Gentlemen Group, Ricky is looking for modern day examples of 21rst C.G.

Blog Posts

Mike Norris wrote posts on how to make an Old Fashioned cocktail and how to open a bottle of champagne with a saber.

Robert wrote an excellent post about the relationship between warriors and art.

Sam wrote a post about the actor Sterling Hayden.

• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Round-Up: September 12, 2009
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• Weekly Link Round-up: Week 4 of the 30 Days to a Better Man Challenge
• The Art of Manliness Weekly Link Round-Up: Help an AoM Reader Get on Mad Men Edition

Hutch Returns!

Some of you may remember that AoM’s contributing writer and resident adventurer Chris Hutcheson had planned to scale Mt. Kilimanjaro and help raise money for Childreach International. Well Hutch is back from Africa and reports that while it was the hardest thing he’s ever done, it was awesome and worth it. And as promised, Hutch flashed some Art of Manliness pride at the summit:

Hutch also went on a photographic safari while in Africa. While driving in their Land Cruiser, a large male elephant came up and bumped the side of the car with its tusks. Awesome.

Hutch said he got lots of ideas for AoM articles from his travels, and we can all look forward to seeing them on the site. Welcome home Hutch!

Picks from the Art of Manliness Archives

How to Leave the Perfect Voicemail

When Is It Okay for a Man to Cry?

10 Outdated Men’s Fashions That Still Have the Charm

The Community Round-Up

Community highlight of the week: The Community Round-Up involves a lot of links, and I didn’t want one of them to get lost. James! posted an amazing comic, “The Killing Jar“, that deserves a lot of attention. Thoughtful and powerful. Check it out.

The Forum

Video Games: Yes or No?

Complete this sentence: “Being a gentleman means….”

What are some manly haircuts?

Is there a need for alpha males in today’s society?

Todd started a discussion about your morning routine.

Yankee Cowboy started a discussion on the ways a man builds his reputation.

Danny started a discussion on the walking stick. Do you carry one? Would you ever?

Jeff started a discussion on having kids. Does the good outweigh the annoyances or vice versa?

Jamie started a discussion about how you personalize your work space.

Groups

In the Geeks Group, Arnold started a discussion on the ipod versus the Zune.

In the Travel Group, Peter made a case for why every man should visit Africa.

In the Real Shaving Group, symplectic describes the best shave of his life.

The Philosopher’s Group discussed:

Would the world be better or worse off without religion?

What if God showed up one day?

Blog Posts

Sam wrote a post about Roy Chapman Andrews.

Yankee Cowboy wrote a post about showing manly confidence.

Haymond wrote a post about why he avoids watching television news.

Edmund wrote a post on true leadership and the difference between bosses, managers, supervisors, and real leaders.

• The Weekly Round-Up
• The Weekly Link Round-Up: September 26, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: January 23, 2010
• Weekly Link Round-Up: September 19, 2009
• Weekly Round-Up: January 30, 2010