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There are challenges that tell us how much heart we have, and the peak of a mountain is one that always looms above our heads. Every day, ordinary people attempt to ascend to altitude greatness, whether it's at Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, or Mt. Hood, Denali, or even Mt. Katahdin in Maine. We praise these climbers, but advise that before you begin your vertical ascent, you not only gear up, but brush up. Here are tips for preparing to undertake a mountain climbing adventure this spring.

Valentine's Day is an easy holiday to tackle if you're thinking romance, baubles, and spoiling your sweetie. But if you're not keen on spoiling the environment in the process, the selection becomes a bit more restricted. Stay away from actual green roses and chocolates, and consider these five vendors whose array of Valentine's Day gifts will honor both your Valentine and our lady Mother Earth.

It's Thanksgiving week, and that means Black Friday is just days away! It's also the week you most want to avoid actually being in stores, if you can manage it. We recommend skipping the queues and staying put on dealnews. So relax, cozy up to your computer in your bathrobe or some other comfy outfit, and take advantage of the great clothing deals we've rounded up for you.

Whether you're looking for a warm flannel or a nice fleece-lined jacket from Eddie Bauer, we have you covered today with up to 70% off at REI and a The North Face sale at Backcountry, plus more of this week's top clothing deals.

How often did you put up with wet snow, howling winds, and outdoor chores (that driveway isn't going to shovel itself) with an insufficient coat last year? Instead of resigning yourself to another winter spent miserably damp and cold, consider a parka, man's answer to winter's worst. We took a look at a variety of discounted jackets from quality manufacturers to show you just what to look for in the perfect parka.

With fall fashion in full swing, and colder weather just around the corner, it's time to add some new outerwear to your closet. Check out the top five apparel deals of the week for some warm coats and even hotter deals.

This week's hottest clothing deals run the gamut, from casual to uber formal. You can find an outfit for a morning run, get a warm jacket for those cool autumn nights, and even buy a wedding dress on the cheap.

It's two days til Christmas, but it's not too late to order gifts online. These 77 stores can still ship a gift for arrival by Christmas Eve. Deadlines start at 9 am ET but go as late as 6 pm ET (at Amazon.com) or even later.

Even after paying for upgraded shipping, you'll find that most electronics (except TVs) and jewelry are cheaper at these stores than at your local stores. (Apparel is likely to be cheaper at your local stores.) To be sure you're paying the minimum, also see our list of last-minute shipping deals for coupon codes and other delivery savings.

Does it feel like you're running out of time? We've compiled a list of over 80 90 stores that can still ship a gift for arrival by Christmas Eve. The deadline is TODAY for Walmart, Target, Barnes & Noble, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, and many more. (Update: Even more stores added.)

See also our list of last-minute shipping deals for coupon codes and other delivery savings.