A parenting tip from "Practical Wisdom For Parents: Raising Self-Confident Children In The Preschool Years," by Nancy Schulman and Ellen Birnbaum (Vintage Books): Playdates for preschool-age kids work best with parties of two. "One-on-one play allows your child to experience the give and take necessary for friendship."

— Chicago Tribune

RELIEVE PAIN

OH, HOW SWEET IT IS TO GET AWAY FROM THE DESK!

When excessive IM-ing, blog-hopping and, oh yeah, working leave your back and neck aching, get moving: Research shows that virtually any type of exercise — tai chi, yoga, strength training — can relieve your misery, Fitness magazine reports. In fact, a new Danish study found that people who did neck or back strength training for 10 weeks felt an 80 percent improvement.

— Gannett News Service

FINAL WORD

"I don't understand why you wouldn't pursue something you're passionate about."

Anita Briem ("Journey to the Center of the Earth") | in Men's Health