I love Google. Everyday I use a multitude of their products and services to live a more efficient, knowledgeable, and connected life. But could I be getting more out of Google? Yes! And this gadget is helping me do it.

From the Official Google Blog

“The Google Tip of the Day gadget highlights some of the lesser-known or recently added members of the Google lineup, providing short, easily digested descriptions and examples. A new feature is covered each weekday, and you can catch up on what has been previously shown as well.”

Did you know that Google Image Search lets you restrict your searches to just faces, photographs, or the news?

Did you know you can restrict your Google Searches to certain periods of time?

Have you ever even heard of Google Insights for Search? (It lets you compare search volume patterns across specific regions, categories, and time frames…Cool.)

While the 2009 Countdown feature is new this month, the gadget has  been around since October 2007. And it only has 56,000 users. It’s not uncommon for a gadget made by Google to have many millions of users. So, I think they’ve tacked on this 2009 Countdown feature to help market the gadget. It got my attention.

To browse the tips chronologically or at random, edit the settings to Show Navigation.

Also, if you don’t want the countdown ticking away, add the original gadget.