Shopping Season isn't Over Yet - More Gift Ideas

Thanksgiving leftovers are gone, we survived Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and now that it's regular ol' Wednesday, time to consider more gift ideas. Remember: One for them, one for you.

As far as I'm concerned, pigs aren't cute. This Pig Cooking Lid is an exception. As the name implies, it can be used to cover pots. The snout is actually two steam holes - a clever nostril application if there ever was one! I'd like it just to have for covering dishes in the microwave that would otherwise splatter (it's safe for both microwave and dishwasher). Check out this multi-functional gift that goes for $18 at MoMAstore.org and support the arts while you cook.


Urawaza: Secret Everyday Tips and Tricks from Japan - This sounds like a fun and helpful little book, from what I've read about it. Various descriptions include the following: "The subject of popular TV shows and numerous books in Japan, these unusually clever solutions to everyday problems have never before been published in English - until now! Urawaza collects more than 100 once-secret tricks, offering step-by-step directions and explanations in an eye-catching package as unconventional as its contents... Here are some examples of the wisdom found in this book: Want to turbocharge your sled? Spray the bottom with nonstick cooking spray. Can't find someone to water your plants while you're away? Place the plant on a water-soaked diaper, so it slowly absorbs water over time." Ingenious! Check your favorite bookstore; amazon.com offers it for $14.95.

Chocolate Calculator - Need a touch of whimsy in your world? Then this is for you. It's a real working calculator shaped like a chocolate bar; even the packaging looks realistic (it's wrapped in foil!). My friend Peggy is a serious chocoholic and fourth grade teacher - how cute would this be in her classroom? It's only $5.95 at Kim and Jason Lemonade Stand.

Gifts that Really Give! This handmade capiz shell ornament is attractive in its own right. When you consider that it benefits artisans who participate in a social services organization in the Phillipines, it becomes even more beautiful. It is just one of hundreds of items sold by Ten Thousand Villages, which since 1946 "... has supported the work of literally tens of thousands of artisans in over 37 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, making [it] one the largest fair trade organizations in North America. Working with 130 artisan groups, we purchase fine pieces from craftspeople with whom we have longstanding, nurturing relationships... helping to bring dignity to their lives." Cost of the ornament: $10. Cost of feeling good because you helped needy artisans around the world: Priceless.

Burning Bookmark - For the devoted reader who stays up all night - if it takes her - to read the latest installment of the Twilight book series, here is the ultimate bookmark. Flames seem to virtually jump off the page when you read that fast! A terrific stocking stuffer for the book lover in your family. Just $5.99 at perpetualkid.com

... And speaking of perpetualkid.com, you might also want to pick up another fun stocking stuffer: The microphone sponge. You know you sing in the shower. We know you sing in the shower - we can HEAR you! We're not suggesting that you quit your day job, but if you're going to sing your heart out, then grab this sponge and really go for it! Also $5.99 at perpetualkid.com