Last Sunday I ran across a wonderful post on an equally wonderful blog: A Suitable Wardrobe. The post dealt with the dress code that United Airlines imposes on the companions of UA personnel who are traveling aboard one of the company’s flights. It is very instructive and very useful information. Will, the blogger, goes one further giving us a glimpse of the very stylish contents of his bags.

I admit to breaking at least one of the rules myself when traveling back from Spain (carrying a statuette of a waterbuffalo — but that’s another story.) I chose a white linen shirt, and off-white linen and cotton “jeans” to wear with my tan suede Tod’s driving mocs. A little Eurotrashy perhaps, but the well-travelled Mrs. E and I were en route from the Costa del Sol where we were incredibly over-dressed…

These (summer) days I would return to my trusty blue blazer (a pain at security, but lots of extra pockets), white seersucker trousers (they’re supposed to look wrinkled…) and a pair of Belgian Shoes. Doing without the blazer, I would opt for a lightweight sweater (which can double as a scarf, if need be.)

Follow the suggestions and traveling may once again seem vaguely glamourous. Now if only I could find a great spotted red neckerchief to set off a soon-to-be acquired tan…

I just ran across this article by The Minimalist in The New York Times. It outlines 101 summer meals that you can make in 10 minutes or less. I found it inspiring and very useful. Print out a copy and keep it tucked away for last minute guests or to salvage a menu disaster (raw chicken is never avant-guarde….)

My father, a career military man, always said that the military did two things really well: weddings and funerals.

Yesterday I was honored to attend a funeral at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony with military honors is very moving. The 3rd Infantry, the “Old Guard” perform their solemn duties with honor and dignity. When the flag-draped coffin passes the honor guard, each man honors the fallen soldier with a final salute.

We, as civilains, often aren’t sure what to do on these solemn occaisions. How should we show our respect? The correct gesture was taught to us early on when we learned The Pledge of Allegiance. Place your right hand over your heart. End the salute when the soldiers lower theirs. You will have performed an elegant gesture in a time when ceremony helps to sustain family and friends.