For 2006 as a whole, the first quarter should prove a one-hit wonder, as higher debt payments, energy costs and slowing housing prices take their toll.

A solid increase in January sets the stage for a quarter where real consumer spending is expected to grew at a greater than 5% pace.

A strong payrolls gain was largely telegraphed by the jobless claims decline and shouldn't be a big shock to markets if wages aren't too threatening. Wages are advancing a fairly tame pace.

Using geothermal energy instead of natural gas heating and electrical air conditioning reduces the greenhouse gas emissions that would be produced by the building by over 168 tons of carbon dioxide per year. So, the ecological impact or 'footprint' of the building is also reduced.

When you're empty, go with empty.

Any movement toward solution gathers energy; any movement away from solution depletes energy. Act accordingly.