INTRO Here's my semi-annual exercise to see if I remember why I own the stocks I own, and so I can check back and see if their stories have changed. I post in case it helps others too.

Gaiam
GAIA (market cap $0.141B)
Gaiam is a small retail conglomerate that sells to the healthy lifestyle, alternative medicine, sustainable living, and generally high-end green consumer. Their primary presence is their online and mail order catalog, though their DVD and other media sales generate a similar income.

GAIA is an investment in a small company that is operating in a speculative industry.

I admit to some misunderstanding of the company. I thought they might expand the retail goods side more than the media side. I think the retail online and shelf space opportunities are larger than the media opportunities. In either case, I hope to invest in a company that enables health, sustainability and encourages alternative lifestyles through goods like solar panels and simple things like yoga supplies. I feel less comfortable with the emphasis on DVD and book sales because the business model for content is currently in flux.

I will continue to HOLD because, despite their age, I think the company is effectively young and may change its strategy. They are well positioned to meet the consumer's needs in decentralized power, home-based health improvements, and lifestyles that healthier for people and the planet. I may not buy more though until I feel more comfortable with their long term strategy. (My buying is somewhat moot anyway until I generate more cash. Like if my books and media sales improved, but that's another story.)

DISCLOSURE LTBH since 2006, customer for years, and a RSOL shareholder.