On my way into work this morning I saw that gas prices surpassed $4.00 a gallon. In addition to changing the driving and purchasing habits of individuals, high fuel prices are causing more businesses to rethink the traditional work week, driving change for the better. An article in the Pioneer Press explains how several Twin City businesses are looking at ways to help employees deal with the increasing cost of the commute. Among the changes, more telecommuting and 4-day work weeks. As someone who used to spend between one and two hours a day commuting, these are welcome changes, regardless of gas prices.

So what are more positive changes that we will see as a result of high gas prices? Over the next week, the 3LUXE Best Of The Days will feature “Best Ofs” that can help you live life to the fullest while promoting a “greener” lifestyle that benefits us all.

The most obvious changes are directly related to fuel prices and how we get where we’re going. Hybrid and electric cars are continuously improving, but with consumers looking for more alternatives, auto companies are finally getting serious about making fuel efficient cars and trucks. But more fun than the advances in cars, is the surge in scooter sales. This is a fun alternative for motoring around town and according to MSNBC sales are up around 25%.

In addition to fuel saving vehicles, there are many other things we can do that not only help us save fuel, but allow us to get more out of life. As I mentioned above, there is more telecommuting taking place, and let’s face it who wouldn’t like to take some of their life back from the drudgery of a commute. The accelerating trend in the home office is fueling sales for home office furniture, the most basic need, a desk.

Summer vacations are also changing this year as more families look to parks and recreation areas that allow them to enjoy their own “backyard”. Many of us here at 3LUXE enjoy the outdoors and know that when you’re “roughing it”, it’s a good idea to have the best. 3LUXE recently updated our “Best Of” camping categories, including tents and sleeping bags for Summer 2008.

Another thing we’ve witnessed at 3LUXE is that many of the items that have been reserved for recreation, are finding their way back into our everyday lives. The easiest to spot is the bike. Here in the US many bikes are purchased solely for recreation and exercise, but you’re seeing more of us tune them up and ride into work. I doubt many would argue that a bike ride in the morning isn’t more relaxing than being stuck in a car.

Next time your at the gas pump grumbling about prices, take a moment to think about how you can change your habits to get more out of life. Maybe you’ll even try skateboarding into work (as someone who’s done it, I would stick to biking)?

All the best,
Bill

Although 2008 is the 100th Anniversary of Father’s Day in the United States, the National Retail Federation is forecasting that Father’s Day spending will be down approximately 4% compared to last year. With record high food and fuel prices that is completely understandable. But then I hear that “Fathers generally get passed over a lot for Father’s Day” on The Wall Street Journal This Morning, and I became slightly concerned for America’s Dads. Since historically people complain that Dad is difficult to shop for, 3LUXE has published the 2008 Father’s Day Gift Guide, to help alleviate common challenges in finding the right gift for Dad.

1. Several “Dads” contribute to 3LUXE.
2. Dads rarely buy gifts for themselves.
3. Dads are just old “boys”, and boys like their toys.

To help our users find the right gift for Dad, 3LUXE has divided our guide into categories based on interests, including a Classic Gift Guide that has appeal to all Dads. In addition to the classic guide we’ve created a Guide to Gadgets that includes gear that will keep dad happy at home and on the road. Golf Gifts are always popular for Father’s Day and our guide includes a couple of the year’s best clubs that are sure to help Dad’s game. Since Father’s Day is celebrated at the beginning of summer, we’ve included two guides that allow Dad to enjoy his gifts this summer and for years to come; The Grilling and Outdoor gift guides.

This Father’s Day remember to thank Dad for all that he has done for you over the years, sometimes the best gift is a simple “thank you”.

All the best,
Bill

Memorial Day weekend provided many great memories for me growing up. Many of these memories center around activities I continue to enjoy today. There were the picnics, the parks, the bike rides, the hikes, and even a classic car cruise. One thing I enjoy about Memorial Day… what it marks, the beginning of summer freedom.

After being snow bound most of the winter, summer is always welcome. Getting out to bike, play ball, enjoy the weather and of course grill. According to The NPD Group, Grilling is Now a Year-Round Undertaking… not for those of us in Minnesota. Even though I love everything about grilling; the process, the smell of bbq, the beer and most of all the food, I’m not ready to shovel out my grill during the winter. What makes grilling so enjoyable is being outdoors. Grilling outdoors has always been enjoyable, but it has never been more comfortable… With the introduction of the outdoor kitchen, families across the country are benefiting from better patio furniture, awesome outdoor fireplaces, great sounding music from improved outdoor speakers, and grills that are easy to start and don’t leave you (or your food) smelling like lighter fluid. All of these improvements allow us to spend more time outside and more importantly, make it easier to slow down and spend more time with family and friends.

For me, Memorial Day weekend is really about spending time with family and friends. Remembering those who came before us, taking time to reflect on those that gave their life for our freedom and saying thanks to the brave individuals who continue to protect our country and freedom today.

Have a great weekend.

All the best,
Bill