Here's to preventative maintenance, a practice often overlooked. When the laws of physics and the laws of economics collide, the laws of economics nearly always win in the short run - especially in this slow economy. The laws of physics, however, don't care about anyone's budget, or anyone's ignorance. The laws of physics just win in the end. Always. Read more.

Are you old school? If so, then check out this new tee shirt that's just as tough as you are. We had it made of ultra cotton, which is known for its durability. Our supplier told us he put this shirt through 200 washes, with a pair of sneakers and fistful of rocks thrown into the machine, just to see what would happen. He told us the shirt just laughed. Get yours today and show your Old School pride!

She lives in Span, and according to this article, she is now officially the sole owner of the sun. If you'd like to use it, you'll have to start paying her. Enjoy the story, especially the part about Dennis Hope, who has owned the moon since 1980. He's made millions selling off pieces of it. If you can't make money in this world, you're just not paying attention.

I love to read old advertising pieces because they make me think more about benefits than features. This little booklet from the 1960s helped to make oil heat very popular during the days when builders were putting up plenty of tract homes. Note how the focus is totally on the reader. Lots of lessons here.

I always enjoy hearing from subscriber, Mark Kretz, who sends me news from Sweden. I recently got this from him about the Passive House projects that are currently going on in that beautiful country. This technology is for real.

It's certainly not going away. Heck, even the Irish are noticing it! Take a look at this story from the Irish Times about what's going on in Vienna. These numbers sure got my attention.

This article has nothing to do with heating, but it does have to do with helping people who are in desperate need, and I think it's innovative and important. I wanted to share it with you as food for thought. Don't miss the video.

I love this article about how the Chinese turn on everyone's heat on a certain day, and then give you 64 degrees during the day (lower at night). And if you have a problem with any of this, you have to call the inspector to check it out, which costs you $150 every time he shows up. I'll bet there aren't many people complaining. Count your blessings.

Last summer's brutal heatwave has inspired the Russians to change their wasteful ways when it comes to energy. Here's the story. I'll be interested to see what they decide to do with those Soviet-era district-heating systems, and the lack of controls in their apartment buildings. Stay tuned.

Hug your kids.