For the Mayaphile and/or traveler in your life, this 2012 Maya calendar is a perfect gift. It was developed by archaeologist Ed Barnhart and all proceeds from the $13 item go to support the Maya Exploration Center (MEC), a non-profit research and education center. Dr. Barnhart makes sure that in addition to our standard Gregorian days and months, each date block of this calendar includes the Maya hieroglyphic "calendar round" date, including both the sacred Tzolk'in and solar Haab cycles.

On the cover, is the archeological site of Palenque, one of the most alluring and incredible sites in Mexico and the Mundo Maya. The Maya Long Count (the only cycle that leads us to 2012 as a significant year) appears at the top of each month with a countdown to the 13th Bak'tun on December 21.

If you're not into the whole dead-tree analog calendar thing, MEC also offers a Maya calendar iPhone app to help you convert all those dates next year while you are exploring Maya ruins.

MEC is also running a number of fascinating trips next year, led by experts and visiting some incredible sites. Start with their "Ancient Maya Calendars and Astronomy: Spring Equinox 2012 Tour" in March.

Moon Travel Guides

Does it go past Dec 21st?

Nope. That means jill will go the way of the Dodo bird!

Wishful thinking, Ry.

Ry, you seem obsessed with taking pot shots at me for no particular reason. Are you ok or do you need the help of a mental health professional?

Nah, she does it to everybody - just don't worry about it. Somehow, in some sad way I believe she thinks she is being clever and witty. It just kinda falls flat because so many times the posts are mean spirited - so even when comments are made in jest people would rather the post hadn't been made. Don't let it get under your skin - its just not worth the bother.