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1) Why do we like making year-end lists? (Hopes and Fears)

2) LOFT is having a 40% off sale for all your last-minute holiday needs.  This pleat-stripe blouse is perfectly versatile. I own this dotted-henley blouse, and I wear it a lot.

3) Traveling for the holiday? A 10-minute workout to help you stay in shape on the road. (Camille Styles)

4) Iris & Ink has amazing new arrivals.  This fluted grey skirt is so chic.  I also like the chevron pleating on this ivory, crepe blouse.

5) Do you vote? I cannot share this cartoon enough.  It perfectly illustrates my frustration with non-voters who complain about the system.

6) Several bloggers are raving about these Becca Skin Perfector for giving your skin that dewy glow. Personally, I like this Laura Mercier Radiance Primer for perking up my complexion.

7) California is forcing restaurants to label foods that contain the carcinogen acrylamide.  What is acrylamide in?  Every cooked food.  Has this gone too far? (Lucky Peach)

8) Zady is quickly becoming my favorite online shop.  They have the coolest iPhone case I have ever seen, from Revisit.  This gorgeous inlaid-bone ring from A Peace Treaty is so sublime.

9) The Japanese courts recently upheld a law that makes it virtually impossible for a woman to keep her maiden name after marriage. (The Guardian)

10) Looking for shoes for New Year’s Eve? Nastygal has some unique, sexy choices.  These rose gold Kara cutout heel are fun.  I really like these red, lace-up Lipstik sandals.

11) Need to get into the Christmas spirit?  The Air Force Band has you covered performing carols in a 1940s-style. (Digg)

Gift Guide. Need a last minute gift?  You need Amazon.  They can get almost anything to your loved ones by Wednesday with two-day shipping.  But an even better gift?  An Amazon Prime subscription, free two-day shipping all year and access to other great perks.

*image found here.