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Recently, Dr. Constance R. Chu, the Albert Ferguson associate professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh and director of the Cartilage Restoration Center there, confirmed a theory, and found herself troubled by the results. It turned out that if you dropped a heavy weight onto parts of a cow’s knee joint from various heights, the joint was hurt. (While the parts of the joint were damaged, the cow itself was uninjured by the experiment; the knees came from a local abattoir.) When the weight hit the joint’s surface cartilage with great speed and force, the bone and cartilage fractured. No surprise there. But it is what happened in Dr. Chu’s experiment when the impact was more subtle — closer to, for instance, the perturbations inside a human knee when a ligament is torn — that concerned her. She found that with lighter impact, the various parts of the knee appeared, visually at least, to be fine.

But when Dr. Chu and her colleagues examined the cartilage cells just below the placid surface, they found carnage. “Many of the cells within the impact zone” — the area that had been directly thwacked by the weight — “were dead,” she said. They died instantly. More insidiously, other cartilage cells, those outside the injury site, began to die in the hours and days after the impact. “We saw an expanding zone of death,” Dr. Chu said. By the end of her group’s planned observation period, four days after the impact, cartilage cells well away from the original injury site were still dying.

The results are fascinating, in a gruesome sort of way. But why should escalating damage to cows’ cartilage matter to the average active human? Well, Dr. Chu says, this study, which was just published in the December issue of The American Journal of Sports Medicine, in conjunction with other researchers’ findings, may help to explain why, she said, “I’m seeing so many patients in their 20s and 30s with knee arthritis after joint injury.”

Human knees (as well as bovine ones) are remarkable instruments, able to bear large loads and pivot in multiple directions. But they also damage easily, as evidenced by the approximately 175,000 anterior-cruciate-ligament-reconstruction operations performed in the United States every year, a number that, by all estimates, has risen steeply in the past decade or so. (No agency tracks the procedures.) Many of these operations are being done now on teenagers, who rip an A.C.L. during a soccer or basketball game. (A.C.L. operations were relatively uncommon in young people before youth sports grew so popular.) Others are in men and women in their 20s and 30s who fall on the ski slopes, for instance. Read more…

Americans have heard a lot of mixed messages about vitamins and may be wondering if they are safe and effective. As with most health questions, it’s smart to look at multiple information sources to get the true picture on nutritional supplementation.

“The total body of scientific evidence overall supports the benefits of nutritional supplementation,” reports certified clinical nutritionist Neil E. Levin, nutrition education manager at NOW Foods in Bloomingdale, Ill. “Surveys show that most people trust vitamins, relying on them as a form of nutritional insurance, and most doctors surveyed recommend them to their patients.”

The Lewin Group has published evidence-based research reporting that the proper use of certain dietary supplements can save billions of dollars in health care costs while improving the quality of life and preserving the independence of seniors.

The occasional negative report, however sensational, should be regarded skeptically when contrasted with a solid body of evidence. According to the FDA’s Consumer Update, it’s a smart idea to “think twice about chasing the latest headline. Sound health advice is generally based on research over time, not a single study touted by the media.” Read more…

Filed under: Podcasts, Hybrid, Truck, Etc., BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Electric

Our friend Mike Levine from Pickuptrucks.com joins Chris, Sam and Dan for Episode #157 of The Autoblog Podcast, bringing his vast knowledge of all that is crew-cabbed and full framed. Of course, we start off with what we’re driving and dreamy talk about the Dodge Ram Power Wagon, but the real meat and potatoes news items begin with a peek at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabrio. Staying with Ms. Jellinek’s namesake brand, the crew ponders the idea of an electric SLS supercar. Staying charged, we move right into Toyota’s recent hybrid news – a tease of an all new hybrid that we’ll see at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, and today’s announcement of a PHEV Prius. Hybrid pickups come up before we move on to the BMW’s Z4 sDrive35is and then questions. One hour, thirty minutes, in time for your Tuesday pick-me-up.

For more listening pleasure check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget, and let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #157 – Mike Levine trucks along with us!

Autoblog Podcast #157 – Mike Levine trucks along with us! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BEIJING – Former United States vice president Dick Cheney, ex-defense minister Donald Rumsfeld and assorted US neo-cons will have plenty of time to nurse their apoplexy. One of their key reasons to unleash the war on Iraq in 2003 was to seize control of its precious oilfields and thus shape a great deal of the new great game in Eurasia – the energy front – by restricting the access of Europe and Asia to Iraq’s staggering 115 billion barrels of proven oil reserves.

After at least US$2 trillion spent by Washington and arguably more than a million dead Iraqis, it has come to this: a pipe dream definitely buried this past weekend in Baghdad with round two of bids to exploit a number of vast and immensely profitable oil fields.

The bids, supervised by the Oil Ministry, were presented on a live TV game show Instead of American Idol, Iraqis got “Oil Idol”. In a raucous carpet bazaar atmosphere, the ministry played “my way or the highway” and forced 44 foreign Big Oil corporations to cut to the max the fee they collect on every barrel extracted in Iraq and submit to 20-year contracts. These multinationals were not given a share in Iraqi oil production; they will be paid a $2 fee per barrel for raising output above a mutually agreed level.

Read the whole story at Asia Times >>

Join the conversation about this story »

See Also:

• China Just Broke Russia’s Monopoly On Central-Asian Natural Gas
• Russia’s Lukoil Wins Huge Iraqi Oilfield
• Russia Is The One BRIC Energy Companies Aren’t Interested In

Remember those HP Envy 13 notebooks we told you about? Well, we are in the middle of a contest where we are giving one away. Here’s your official reminder, because you don’t have much more time left to enter! Check out the video above for the full scoop, and then head on over to the official HP Envy 13 giveaway page for all the details on how to enter.

Here’s how to get the show:
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Please, someone explain to me why you’d need a Necky, because I am just not seeing it. What is wrong with the regular clothes that we already have, and have used for generations? Why do you need a chestplate that is fashioned out of cheap cloth to stay warm in the winter? Huh?? Answer me!! It’s a scarf, not a freaking bow tie. Learn how to wear one, Necky enthusiasts!

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This very brief Google Chromium blog posting gives a lovely view into modern secure system design …

Sega’s still churning out the videos for Bayonetta, Platinum Games’ stylish action game for PS3 and Xbox 360. This one’s focuses on the enemy weapons that dominatrix-witch/angel killer Bayonetta can appropriate from her dead enemies and use

Eighty-six percent of people who develop an eating disorder said the illness was apparent by the age of 20, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders.

However, these types of illnesses do not always start out as eating disorders.

Dianna Schalles, Lafene Health Center nutritionist, said dieting is a gateway that can lead to an eating disorder.

“Sometimes it will start out innocently, trying to be health conscious,” she said.

Schalles said people start by eliminating certain fats from their diets. When they see success, they cut other elements of their diet too. This combined with positive body-image feedback from others can cause a domino effect.

“It’s very complex; often times a person may not know they would be at risk for that,” she said.

With an enormous market for weight loss programs and diet supplements and a constant flow of unrealistic images in the media, quick-fix or extreme dieting can be utilized to try and obtain the perfect body image.

However, professionals stress simple and healthy lifestyle choices can be implemented into everyday routines to achieve physical fitness.

“Long term success isn’t about finding the right diet,” Schalles said. “It’s really about identifying behaviors that contribute to a person consuming more calories or an adequate physical activity.” Read more…

The British television presenter and lifestyle coach Amanda Hamilton shares her views on health and nutrition.

Like everything else in this turbulent world, food supplement habits among consumers are changing. Market research shows that sales of single and multi-vitamin pills have fallen dramatically, and this downwards trajectory is predicted to continue as more people reply on fruit and vegetables to get their daily nutrients.

On the face of it, this should be a positive move. Food can deliver the most bio-available nutrients, particularly those from fresh fruit and green vegetables. Other important food constituents such as enzymes cannot be replicated in a laboratory without considerable expense to the consumer’s pocket.

However, ditching supplements only works if the food measures up.

Even though most of us know about the recommended five-a-day (servings of fruit and vegetables) mantra, failure to eat such a diet could leave you open to possible nutritional deficiencies, leading to health problems now or later in life. Read more…

Filed under: Crossover, Ford, Design/Style

The National Automotive History Collection (NAHC) has named the 2010 Ford Flex its most collectible vehicle of 2009, beating out seven other vehicles shortlisted for the award. The Flex is the 11th vehicle to receive the award, given by members overseeing the “world-famous” automotive collection at the Detroit Public Library. Members say the Flex won because it was the most likely vehicle to turn heads at the 2034 Woodward Dream Cruise.

The Flex does have some interesting styling cues and the EcoBoost model is sold in relatively low volumes which could make it the Woody of its generation, but even still, we’re not entirely sold on its collectibility. We’re actually quite fond of the Flex but we just don’t see anyone collecting Ford’s boxy crossover any time soon (or in the future, either). For starters, this author hopes crossovers don’t become collectibles. Something about a people hauler being put on display for all to see and admire seems wrong – just don’t tell Chevrolet Nomad collectors.

Then there is the fact that most of the early models that were named “Most Collectible” are now considered to be very average transportation at best and flat out junk at worst. For example, the Oldsmobile Aurora and the Buick Riviera were co-winners in 1995 followed by the Chrysler Sebring Convertible in 1996. Yuck. The award then went on hiatus until 2002 when the retro-riffic but short-lived Ford Thunderbird was predictably chosen. More recent winners have been a bit more respectable though, with the Dodge Challenger and Viper making the list along with the 2005 Ford Mustang. The Chrysler 300 and Pontiac Solstice have also made it to the podium. We get that this is a reward given out in Detroit with virtually no chance of a foreign nameplate ever winning, but we can think of plenty of domestics that seem more deserving. How about the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Cadillac CTS-V or Shelby GT500? Or the 2010 Camaro? Hit the jump for Ford’s official press release, and then feel free to weigh in with your thoughts in Comments.

Photos by Dan Roth / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2009’s most collectible vehicle is… the Ford Flex?!

2009’s most collectible vehicle is… the Ford Flex?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We love peeking into kitchens, of course, but we especially enjoy seeing kitchens that are all geared up to cook — or to entertain! That’s happening in these photos of Tyler and Sarah’s kitchen; it’s all prepped for a big cocktail party, and we picked up a few tips from their preparations.

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**  December 25, 2009:  Winners from the Holiday Prize Package Give Away Announced  **

•    1st Place:  Stacey Shipman and Nadia – Happy Lotus  (there was a tie, so two winners were awarded the prize package)
•    2nd Place:  Sami – Life, Laughs, and Lemmings
•    3rd Place:  Mindful Mimi and Evelyn Lim (there was a tie, so two winners were awarded the prize package)
•    Newsletter Signup Winner:  Nadia – Happy Lotus
**
On behalf of both Lisa Marie and myself, I would like to extend our thanks to everyone who commented, everyone to signed up for Lisa Marie's newsletter, and everyone who read these words.  Your time here is deeply appreciated.

"The degree of health, happiness, success, and meaning in your personal and professional life is a matter of choice, commitment, and discipline, not chance or circumstance. You are Where You Choose to Be. As you stand at the threshold of unparalleled success, remember, a whole, clear, glorious life lies before you. Are you where you want to be?" ~ Lisa Marie Platske

Seeing the possibilities in life!  Today I have Lisa Marie Platske with us.  Lisa Marie runs a leadership development company, Upside Thinking, focused on her speaking engagements, consulting services, and personalized coaching. 

Lisa Marie is someone I "met" online about a year ago.  We spoke several times after first connecting, and she was there to give me a real belief in what IS possible.  Since those first beginnings, I have used Lisa Marie's coaching services, and have had the opportunity to connect both personally and professionally with her.

Today, I sit down with Lisa Marie, and we talk about life and where she is at today. 

Holiday Cheer Prize Package 1

Through a very generous offer from Lisa Marie, there are several prize packages available:
Please answer the following question in the comments:  What does “designing your destiny” mean to you?
•    1st Place:  One ticket to attend Lisa Marie’s Leadership Success Summit in January AND one hour of one-on-one coaching with Lisa Marie + a copy of her book “Designing Your Destiny”
•    2nd Place:  Choice of one ticket to attend Lisa Marie’s Leadership Success Summit in January OR one hour of one-on-one coaching with Lisa Marie + a copy of her book “Designing Your Destiny”
•    3rd Place:  One copy of Lisa Marie’s book “Designing Your Destiny”
**
NOTE:  Winners to be chosen based answers in the comments section – by Jo Della Penna, small business expert at The Business of You, and Lisa Marie.
**
Winners to be chosen from all received entries on Saturday, December 19th, 2009.

Holiday Cheer Prize Package 2
                                      
As well, for anyone who signs up for Lisa Marie’s newsletter, one random winner will be chosen, receiving all of the following:
•    One ticket to attend Lisa Marie’s Leadership Success Summit in January OR one hour of one-on-one coaching with Lisa Marie
•    One copy of her book “Designing Your Destiny”
•    One Starbucks giftcard valued at $20
**
NOTE:  The sign up for the newsletter can be found at the bottom portion of the Upside Thinking website.  Winner chosen from all entries through Saturday, December 19th, 2009.

Please join me in welcoming Lisa Marie here.

1. Tell us a little bit about who “you” are (family, career, any special life experiences you’d like to share, etc.)
I’m happily married to a supportive and loving man who brings out the best in me. We were both working as Federal law enforcement officers when we met and I resigned 2 months before we married. (On a side not, we met sitting next to each other in a leadership training class as my maiden name was “Palansky”. After we married, if I would’ve hyphenated, I’d be Lisa Marie Palansky-Platske. LOL ~ Say that fast, 3 times in row.)

Lance's Commentary:  That IS a tongue twister!  And having had the opportunity to meet both you and your husband, I know how much you both deeply support and love each other.  What a great life connection you two have!

2. How long have you had your business, Upside Thinking?  And what led you to go in this direction?
I formed Upside Thinking, Inc. after getting married. I remember sitting at my desk 6 months into the venture and thinking, “Lisa Marie, you just moved to a new state, 3000 miles away from any family or friends to support you, and you’ve opened a business. What do you know about business? You don’t have a business degree or business background. What were you thinking?!?” But here I am, almost five years later, looking back and realizing it was one of the best decisions of my life. As I tell my clients, “A journey of 1000 miles starts with a single step.” Most people, however, are afraid to take the first step.
Interestingly, I never had a desire to start my own business. I formed Upside Thinking, Inc. because as I looked at my unique talents, skills, and abilities in developing leaders through my work in the Federal government, combined with my desire for the freedom to spend time with the people I love, it seemed like starting a business made the most sense. Ultimately, I decided to take a leap and trust that a net would appear. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, otherwise I may not have taken the first step. And, I think it is also why I’m passionate about helping aspiring and developing entrepreneurs become savvy in their businesses.

Lance's Commentary:  Lao-Tzu really was onto something with that quote!  It's taking that first step that is going to get us moving in the direction of our dreams.  Without the steps, our dreams remain just that – dreams.  And Lisa Marie, I know you support others in deeply loving ways, myself included.  That passion for seeing others achieve their dreams shines through so brightly in all you do!

3.  I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to use your coaching services you offer through Upside Thinking (they’re great!).  Tell us a little about this service, and is there anything else you offer?
Gosh, Lance, you’re making me blush. Thank you.
While I am an inspirational speaker, write a killer newsletter – the Upside Thinker, and am the author of Designing Your Destiny, I also offer group and one-on-one leadership coaching services.
There are tens of thousands of coaches out there. What makes me different is that I truly do care about the well-being and success of my clients sometimes even more than they do. Therefore, I only accept work from up to 10 incredibly committed individuals per year.
When I work with a client, we enter a partnership that enables them to make profound shifts in their thought processes which in turn produce measurable results in their personal and professional lives. I teach my clients how to clarify their vision, beliefs, and values, as well as identify and overcome the internal and external obstacles that have kept them from reaching their full potential, so they can benefit from a larger sphere of influence, spend more time with their loved ones, and increase their wealth building capacity.

Lance's Commentary:  Your words spoken here are words that I have been personally touched by.  Your care and love shine through, Lisa Marie.  I think back to our first few telephone calls…conversations that you offered out of the deep goodness of your heart.  I still go back to those days, now a year ago, and how your belief in me was so touching.  And from that we have forged not only a professional connection, but also a very meaningful personal connection as well.  I am honored to know you, and to call you friend.

4. You have a conference you host in January.  Could you tell us a little bit about that that’s all about?
Oh, this is my baby so forgive me…and stop me….if I ramble. I LOVE this event for so many reasons and I created this event for those same reasons.
The annual Leadership Success Summit: Getting Results in Changing Times is for savvy, entrepreneurial women in business or strong businessmen who understand the value of collaborating with smart businesswomen.

The two-day event is complete with INSPIRATIONAL speakers who will share their SECRETS of success. This year the line-up includes:
• Rene Reyes, International Poet Laureate, Legal Practitioner, Author and Radio Host
• Eve Yen, Founder of Multi-Million Dollar Venture, Diamond Wipes International
• Nancy Marmolejo, One of the Top 50 Most Influential and Powerful Women in Social Media
• Lisa Marie Platske, Award-winning Entrepreneur and Leadership Expert
• Jo Della Penna, Small Business Coach and Life Balance Expert
• Lauren Solomon, Image Expert for Career TV and the Reality Makeover TV show, ReMake My Life
• Chellie Campbell, Author of The Wealthy Spirit and Zero to Zillionaire
• Mary Cantando, Mentored thousands of Women in Business to Reach the Million Dollar Level
• And more…….

What’s different is that this event brings business building tools, connection opportunities, and empowerment strategies together.  And, the speakers actually hang around to connect with the attendees rather than sharing and bolting like many of the conferences I’ve attended.

In a day in which we face unprecedented changes – locally, nationally and globally – far too many leaders are standing in the shadows. This is YOUR opportunity to LEAD!

Here's some of what you'll learn by attending –

* The "Missing Element" that most entrepreneurs FAIL TO EMPLOY in their businesses!

* EASILY get amazing results in selling your products and services in a way that feels fun for you and the prospect!

* Learn the SECRETS to experience massive success in starting or expanding your business using universal principles that get results!

* IGNITE a powerful process to MAGNETIZE the resources or people you want to better leverage your time!

* Need cash FAST? Learn how to CREATE a Wealthy Spirit that will turn you into a creative money generator!

* FEEL a greater sense of peace about finances and learn how to navigate the economic bumps so you can attract those that want what you have and will PAY you gladly for it!

* LEARN the concept of energy management and how it can help you get more done in less time and have more fun in the process!

* Find out how vibrational output can SOLVE any business or personal problem fast! Learn a process that takes less than 5 minutes a day to implement and you will see and feel the changes in one week!

This event will not only transform and uplift attendees, but will provide incredible new ideas and connections. Most people leave with a new friend, lots of contacts, and words of wisdom, encouragement and enlightenment that motivate action. Attendees should come open to transformation both personally and professionally.

Ohhhhhhh…..and right now I have a 50% off HOLIDAY SPECIAL……Only $297 or save $100 and bring a client or a friend – 2 tickets for only $497!!!! (Offer expires December 30, 2010.)

For more information and to SIGN UP TODAY, please visit www.UpsideThinking.com.

5.  You’ve recently moved across the country – from one side of the United States, to the other.  Touch upon what the challenges and joys in this have been.
I’ve moved a few times in my life and so this wasn’t new to me. I find the biggest challenge to any move is leaving the circle of supportive friends that you have. However, the biggest joy has come from leaving that circle of friends as every move forces you out of your comfort zone. In my case, this move allowed me to continue creating a bigger version of myself and my business.

Lance's Commentary:  I love this thought, and how it really applies to all of us – and not only to physical moves, but also to moving through all phases of our life.  When we are doing this with a connection to something greater, that really is about creating a bigger version of ourselves.  And that's pretty great all around!

6. Tell us one unexpected thing that has happened to you in the last year.
That’s a tough one. Life is full of surprises and I think my whole life is one “unexpected” adventure. For example, over the past few months, I won contracts I didn’t think I’d get and lost contracts I thought were a sure thing. I was featured as an expert on a television show (never thought that would happen) and then the following month the programmers permanently deleted the file of my interview (major bummer). I traveled to Argentina in September but didn’t take a trip back to PA in October for the first time in 20 years. One unexpected thing? Heck, from my perspective, my list is never ending as every day brings the unexpected .

Lance's Commentary:  The truth is, we never know exactly what is going to happen in the moments of our life.  We can plan, but still there are moments that will waver in both directions from what we have planned and expect.  Lisa Marie, I very much appreciate your honesty with this answer.  Things don't always go as planned, for any of us – some of it's in a very good way, and some not so good.  Or maybe…it's our perspective on this too.  When things don't go as planned, this is really another opportunity for us to grow and challenge ourselves.  You do!  Always…

7. If you had to pick one thing as your greatest achievement, what would it be (and why)?
Becoming an upside thinker. Because I didn’t always see the best in others or myself, this transformation has created real and tangible results in my life. Upside isn’t the same as positive. Upside is about seeing, and acting upon the unlimited possibilities in your life. It’s about taking responsibility for your choices and having the commitment and discipline to create a life full of happiness, success, and meaning. It’s also about realizing that whether or not it is clear to you, everything in the Universe is unfolding as it should.

Lance's Commentary:  I love your definition of "upside"!  Kind of gives new meaning to the term "upside down"!!

8. Let’s say you’re visiting Wisconsin, and get stranded because of a major snowstorm (it happens!).  There’s no television and no phones.  What do you do while you wait out the storm?
Well, I don’t have a television at home so that wouldn’t be any different. And, while I do love my cell phone, I also appreciate life-long learning. I imagine I’d seize the opportunity to read a good book or two and, since I’m incredibly social, I’d make a friend or two.
I’ve been stranded at an airport before so that isn’t a stressor. However, being physically stranded in the snowstorm brings visions of the movie New in Town to my thoughts ~ LOL!

Lance's Commentary:  In a day and age where televisions are as prominent as they are, I applaud you on choosing to skip this.  There are a myriad of others ways to actually engage our minds, and I know you ARE doing this!  And the movie "New In Town" sure does seem to fit here!!  Might I also suggest snow angels and sledding?  Lots of fun!

9.  Define love – what does that mean to you?
Well, this question sure caught me off guard as it has baffled philosophers for centuries. To me, love is as love does. People who love each other are capable of bringing out the best in one another. Choosing love and choosing to love are decisions. I also know that you need to love yourself wholly and completely before choosing to love another.

Lance's Commentary:  So, what I'm reading here is that love is a verb!  I love that!  It's more than just paying lip service to the word "love", it's acts that we do with love behind them that really IS love.  Wow!!

10.  Deep down, what makes you uniquely “you”? 
My compassion, upsidedness, and energy are the three things that make me uniquely, “me”. I have experienced my share of heartache, disappointment, and pain and through it all have developed a compassionate heart for people. I’ve also learned how to live an incredibly upside life as I mentioned earlier. And, my energy enables me to change the feel in a room just by my presence. I don’t know how or why, I just know that I’ve been told that again and again throughout my life.

Lance's Commentary:  Lisa Marie, I have personally been the recipient of that compassion from you, and so I know what a gift this is that you have.  Your heart is so big, and you give so deeply when you connect.  What a light you are unto the world!  What a light you have been in MY world!

Closing Comments:  It's been great having you here today Lisa Marie!  Just like all of our emails, phone calls, and meeting in person – every time we connect, I'm drawn into the amazing love you give of yourself.  Today is no exception, and it is an honor to have you here. All that you say here, I know to be YOU.  You have opened your home to my family and I, you have been our tour guides (the sun dial still amazes me!), you coach from your heart, and you care deeply about those you know.  That's a recipe for a beautiful life!

Lisa Marie, your presence and generosity here today are deeply appreciated.  More than that, though, knowing you are there, always, as a friend, is a real gift!  As you go forth, know that I wish you only the best as you continue down this amazing path you are on!

What does “designing your destiny” mean to you?

Answer this question in the comments, and sign up for Lisa Marie's newsletter here – for entry into some wonderful gifts (see above).

Every year around the holidays I get requests from readers asking for shopping tips. Some readers are looking for other Primal family members and friends. Others are looking toward the new year (and new goals) while they pass along ideas to spouses and family. We’ve offered up gift ideas in the past, but I thought I’d get more specific this year and share some of my personal favorites.

There’s just enough time to get your last-minute gift orders placed to ensure adequate shipping time, so check out the list below and share your gift ideas in the comment board.

Something to Stock the Primal Kitchen

Collection of Frontier™ Primal Herbs and Spices

Fully organic and deliciously potent herbs and spices. We buy plenty of fresh herbs at the market, but we keep a full stock of good dried herbs and spices as well for convenience and variety. Check out their Gourmet Peppers of the World. Carrie and I have been making our way through the collection this fall.

Another good option is Penzeys Spices. I happened upon one of their retail locations in Santa Monica recently. If you live near one drop by to experience the store. They have tester canisters of every product they sell so that you can crack it open and sniff the spicy goodness.

Kitchenware: Measure, Mix & Pour™

As you all know, I’m a big fan of salads. I can’t imagine how many I’ve gone through over the years. I always do a fresh dressing each time but don’t like fussing over the right mix. Carrie picked this gadget up for me a while back, and I use it every day now. It does it all in one container. Choose among the printed recipes, use the measuring lines and then mix with the plunger lid. No measuring cups or spoons. Throw it in the dishwasher when you’re done.

Eliki Olive Oil

While we’re on the subject of salads…I discovered this brand at an area farmers’ market once, and it’s remained one of my favorites. I include it here because you can order it online from anywhere. Once you try it, you might find yourself addicted. I went through a lot of Greek salads with that first bottle. Trust me, it didn’t last long. I like the mild but deep and rich flavor. I’d recommend their fig vinegar and dipping oils as well.

Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

It’s the excellent heat conductivity of cast iron but with the easy clean up and maintenance of enamel. It’s the perfect way to cook low and slow – the ideal Primal way. (And who doesn’t love a good chili or stew in winter?) Sure, everyone bows down to Le Creuset, but I’ve found Lodge brand to be a perfectly good and affordable option.

Something to Boost Primal Fitness

BOSU® Ballast Ball

As you know, I’m a big fan of workout gear that challenges your muscles with instability. The ball has a loose, weighted center that shifts as you move, engaging different muscle groups in the abs and back. It’s a nice addition to a simple home gym focused on functional fitness.

Indo Board

My son actually enjoys this one, but I use it too. It’s a great way to build your core with functional, challenging balance control. (Not a bad way to improve your surfing skills either.)

Stronger Grip Loadable Mace

During this year’s 30-day Primal Health Challenge a sponsor gave me a mace for personal use. I’ve incorporated it into my workouts ever since. Yes, you can make your own, but these are loadable with thick grips and a smooth metal ball at the end. (Sledgehammers make decent makeshift maces, but the handle isn’t ideal for swinging and you better never catch yourself with the head; a mace doesn’t feel good either but it’s not likely to tear skin.)

Something for Primal Kids

Haba Terra Kid Gear

Our friends’ 8- and 10-year-olds have several of these gear items for outdoor treks and adventures. With everything from self-crank camping lanterns to magnifying glasses to telescopes, backpacks and boomerangs, this set helps the kids feel like expert outdoorsmen and –women.

Djubi

The same friends’ kids also have this toy. It’s a good deal of fun for kids and adults alike. It gets kids outside. Enough said.

Go Wild: 101 Things to Do Outdoors Before You Grow Up

A book for older kids and teenagers, you’ll find great ideas for big and small family adventures. It’s simultaneously a primer on basic outdoor survival and a handbook for outdoor hijinks. Try foraging for food, building outdoor shelters, collecting natural remedies and building Stone Age tools and weapons. Makes you want to be a kid again – but, then, who’s stopping you?

Something to Soothe and Pamper

Wound Honey™

A sterile topical formulation of Manuka Honey, this is one thing that’s always in our medicine cabinet. When you plan holiday gifts, you probably don’t think first aid. Nonetheless, I’d consider this for the practical type on your list. We keep it around for everyday cuts, scrapes, burns and the like. I have a friend with eczema who swears by it. The honey’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help heal while the thickness creates a seal to protect the wounded area.

Aura Cacia Purifying Eucalyptus Shower Tablets

I don’t get sick or run down too often, but earlier this fall I was traveling and felt something coming on. I have my own routine when this happens that includes plenty of rest, antioxidants and some time in the sauna. A friend I was visiting on the trip gave me these as kind of a pick-me-up. Free from all the crazy chemicals (or overpowering scent) of drugstore brands, these tablets can turn an ordinary shower into a real boost. If you’re a fan of the eucalyptus oil in the steam room at the gym, I’d definitely recommend them. They won’t cure a cold or save the world, but they’re a soothing way to indulge yourself on a cold winter’s night.

WIDU® Wood Bristle Hair Brush

I don’t spend much time primping, but this brush goes everywhere with me. It feels great on the scalp, does a great job distributing the natural oils and doesn’t catch like other brushes do. Carrie has one too. They’re made from natural woods and rubber and come with extra bristles.

Something to Reconnect

Ecological Calendar

To reconnect with the natural world… When you’re feeling overrun by modern life and the artificial schedule we make for ourselves, check out what’s going on in the real world. The calendar tracks everything from moon phases to meteor showers, tide patterns to seasonal constellations. It’s a good reminder to get out there and enjoy the changes of the year.

The Vegetarian Myth

I reviewed this book last month and can’t recommend it enough. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan it may be time to reconnect with your inner carnivore.

Annual “Passport”

If what life calls for is more time together, make a year-long commitment – to your partner, kids, or whoever you need to reconnect with. Set out a list of “dates” or adventures to enjoy together throughout 2010. For kids, maybe it’s learning to ice skate, visiting a national park, building a fort, etc. For partners or good friends, maybe it’s dinners out, concerts, evening walks and a long weekend trip. Good friends of ours did this as a whole family. They said everyone agreed at the end of the year that it had been the best present anyone got.

An always tasteful option…

Can you guess? A Primal Nutrition collection of course! Check out my Primal Holiday Offer – with The Primal Blueprint book, Grok T-shirt, and set of key supplements to support your Primal health goals.

I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season. Thanks for reading, and be sure to share your own ideas for Primal giving.

P.S. Apart from my Primal Holiday Offer, proceeds from which go to fund this blog, I’m not making any money off these product recommendations.

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Related posts:

1. Primal Inspired Holiday Gifts (to Give or Receive!)
2. Savoring the Holiday
3. The Power of Holiday Tradition

> Monday morning. The world turned up today: it took me an hour’s queuing in the 1 degree cold to get to the front door of the Conference Centre with my precious pass; thousands are stuck outside just trying to register. When I get inside I’m told the winding queue for new registrations was measured at 4 kms long. You read that right. 40,000 people have now tried to register to attend the conference’s final days. On Friday, when 100+ heads of state turn up with their entourages, only 90 NGO people of the 25,000 here will be able to get in.

> Tuesday morning it starts snowing, as the flashing sign says to the thousands waiting “expect a 5 hour wait to register for the conference”. A 5 hour wait outdoors that is.

> Connie Hedegaard, Danish Minister of Climate Change and Chair of the Conference, briefs NGOs, telling them to ‘keep up the pressure’. She insisted that now is the time for a deal, that science and everything else is available, over 100 heads of states will be here, there will not be another chance. Postponing will not help but rather complicate so the pressure from civil society must absolutely remain firm.

> She also says “Finance is crucial, long term decisions are needed, a number of ministers are carrying out consultations on financial issues. A levy on financial transactions probably can’t be designed and agreed this week but one on aviation and shipping could.” Whoa, that would be big news!

> 11.37 am Monday – rumour reaches me that the African Group G77 has walked out of the “contact talks” this morning. The pace is quickening. Tuesday mormning it’s India and China that are supposed to have walked out. Best place to figure out what’s going on is the BBC rather than here.

> At Carbon Disclosure Project session “CDP is working with a number of govermments on mandatory disclosure proposals. We’re encouraging governments to talk with each other so they can have a harmonised regulations.”  Indian ex-Minister Suresh Prabhu: “can’t we have an integrated financial system that includes carbon disclosure? Mandated? Baselines, MRV and standards need to be fully integrated.”

> One friend responded to the snippet about research into how to promote bicycle use in Mexican by suggesting Mexico consider subsidies for bike purchases by women. I will ask my contact to pass it on!

> According to Danish pumps company Grundfos, pumps consume 20% of all electrical energy generated around the world. Apparently they are in more places than you can imagine.

Time: 21:36 | Download MP3

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Lessons learned at 37signals
In this talk, Jason discusses what he’s learned at 37signals over the years. Topics covered: The idea that you should “fail early, fail often” is bogus. Plans are guesses. Interruption is the enemy of productivity. Sell your byproduct. Emulate chefs. Focus on what won’t change. If you want to do something, you’ve got to do it now.

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