An archive of previously featured doodads and gadgets that no self-respecting baby boomer can live without!

They call it Splat Stan -- I thought it should be Splat Matt. Whatever. Stan has had an unfortunate life, but being squashed by a coffee mug gave him a new purpose in life. Every time you put your cup down you can imagine you are squashing someone you don't like.

War games were never my thing, but the Soldier Egg Cup is kind of amusing. The model soldiers work hard to protect the egg but one after another, the bread soldiers just keep coming. How will it end? It's a boys of all ages kind of thing.

If you've ever wanted a compact iron that can get into the little corners, around the buttons and into the pleats, this is it. Works like a full-size iron with optional steam with easy-fill reservoir. 800 watts,
8 ft. Cord.

You're at that place in your life where you shouldn't hae to shake your own drinks, right? Shaker arm fatigue syndrome is not something you want to get. With the Cocktail Shake-O-Matic, those worries are over! The 16 ounce shaker has a variable speed control and a snug cap, so what are you waiting for? Party on!

Don't knock until you've tried . This wooden massager is a 4-point tool that glides across tired and aching muscles relieving tension and stress. Apply pressure as desired and listen to the oohs and aahs as the relaxer works its magic.

You don't have to be germaphobic to like the sensor soap pump -- but it helps. Touch-free dispenser helps avoid cross-contamination. Four volume settings allow the pump to dispense preset amounts of soap or lotion. Operates on 4 AA batteries.

A small but fantastic luxury -- this compact heated shelf keeps towels comfortably warm, dry, and within easy reach. Heat from the rails rises up through stacked towels. The efficient 65 watt dry heating element draws as little power as a standard light bulb so it can be left on continuously.

These two space-trippers could make an unexpected and hilarious landing in your flowerbed or back yard. Durably cast in weatherproof resin. 9"H spaceship; the alien duo stand 7"H. Set of 3.

Who doesn't want to make their own soda or seltzer at home in just seconds? No need to bother with lugging home heavy bottles and then having them go flat. The Soda-Club® Home Soda Maker, makes great tasting seltzer or soda in a variety of flavors. 3-year warranty.

This rocking glass could drive you to drink--if so, you're already there. Seems like it would be a good way to roll your cognac around. Your biggest problem might be that it takes off on its own and rolls off the table.

Make your dog glow in the dark -- really! The VisiGlo collar keeps you and your dog safe and stylish at night. Runs on two AA batteries
Maybe you should wear one too?

The Smoking Mitten is for those who just can't give it up but find themselves out in the cold--literally. The metal eyelet allows you to hold your cigarette but keep your hands warm when you are smoking outside, which you are going to be doing a lot.

The Socket Sense surge protector is a great way to deal with those pesky plugs that come with transformers. Simply expand or contract the movable sockets to adjust for the best fit. Compare this to a typical surge strip where power adapters typically block one or more sockets.

For those who never mastered the 2-legged chopstick (count me in), the Tribacchetta 3-Legged Chopstick means you can stop going hungry when you eat Chinese. Handmade of natural bamboo, these chopsticks are shaped like forceps and make enjoying Asian cuisine easy.

You might think Gaiam is just about yoga, but they also sell this great handblown recycled glass carafe set by artisans from Colombia (fair trade group). Perfect for bedside, dishwasher-safe. Tumbler doubles as cap.

Here's a bed you never have to leave - because it has everything. Triple drawer storage, built-in dresser drawers, night stands, TV stand, Perfect Number mattress -- everything but the kitchen sink. This takes sleeping in to a new level.

One "L" on your birthday cake looks a lot better than 50 or more flames. Slow the chariot down and start counting with Roman Candles. There are 8 silver-trimmed candles in each set (good for ages 1 to 89) as well as a crash course in Roman numerology.

"Wash up and kiss me" should be the clear (and clean) message you will send with this cherry red lips shaped soap. Shea butter enriched vegetable soap. Sold as a set of 2. Good clean fun?

Rest your head on this heart shaped throw pillow. Send it to someone you love to remind them how much you care. The shaggy cover is 100% cotton. Stuffing 100% polyester. Measures approximately 15" W x 14" H x 4" D.

Nothing says I love you like I love you in French. The Je t'aime espresso cup and saucer in bright red -- naturellement!. Microwave and dishwasher safe, n'est pas.

One-of-a-kind felt pebbles have subtle lines and organic shapes. Handmade in South Africa by women in a job creation program, these soft sculptures come in a variety of colors and shapes and will look lovely displayed in a bowl or vase.

I think I like it because it's "bad to the bone" china -- the porcelain Skull Collection is definitely a conversation starter.with cutting edge elegance. Dishwasher safe. Not for use in the microwave. Who's hungry?

Lullabye yourself to sleep every night with this ultra soft printed pillowcase set. With a guitar on one pillow and an amp on the other; perfect for the music lover in your life!

If you find big oven mitts too bulky, the silicone grabber is a great way to pull a tray or oven rack. Resistant to temperatures up to 250 degrees, you can grab anything you want without fear of burning yourself.

Not sure if a wallet that lights up in the dark is happy or sad. The Lumi-Wallet only lights up when the wallet is open, and it turns off when the wallet is closed! Batteries included. Is this a sign of geezerdom? You decide.

Freeze up a batch of Frozen Smiles and drop them into any glass - they’re the ice cubes that grin right back at you. Adds a little bite to whatever you’re drinking. Great if you're teeth are not already in a glass!

A very cool basket for holding your firewood -- from Conran. Handcrafted basket is inspired by the spirograph of the 60s. Fills me with burning desire.

If you know someone who likes Swedish pancakes (like Tom and Cathy) this cast iron pan has seven circular depressions which hold the batter. The plett pan is 9-1/4" in diameter with a 5-1/2" long handle.

The BodyGard Self-Powered Emergency Tool is 12-in-1 unit featuring a built-in hand crank, so you can generate power when you need it. Flasher, panic button, compass, cell phone charger, mirror, pill storage, FM radio -- so don't leave home without it.

Billboard Bags ($54-$82) by District Cotton are made from recycled street and highways banners. Comes in university, tote, mini and bowling bag styles. Be the first on your block!

Get in the way back machine or just try this the Tunnel of Love car. The fully restored car features the traditional heart-shaped, curved back which wraps around each side. Get your date and go for it.

Herb-Savor keeps herbs fresh for up to three weeks by keeping cut stems in water. Fits inside a standard refrigerator door. Removable stainless steel basket keeps herbs neatly gathered together, and allows for easy washing. Great way to store asparagus, too!

If you've struggled to learn your knots, the Fourteener is just the thing for hikers, climbers, campers, backpackers, boaters, fishermen, hunters, etc. Provides a portable hands-on tool representing 14 pieces of hardware to aid in the learning of knots.

If you're serious about your coffee and you want your Joe to go, the coffee tote is the be-all, end-all. Brushed stainless steel vacuum flask, 2 insulated mugs, container for cream, 2 stainless spoons and a napkin.

Turn old newspapers into fireplace "logs" Save money on wood and put those stacks of old newspapers to good use. Simply fill brick maker with dampened sheets of paper, press out excess water and let dry. Tightly-formed briquettes light quickly.

We've all thrown out old magazines when there's no point to saving them any longer. Well, read on. Someone in Brazil got the idea that they would make very stylish coasters. Comes as a set of 6. Size: 3.5" x 3.5"

Want to save your old records on CDs or convert to mp3's? ION's turntable is the ideal tool for digitizing your vinyl music collection. USB connectivity simplifies conversion directly into your computer. You can now listen to your favorite music on CDs or portable media players.

Come on now -- who wouldn't want a Digital Buddhist Jukebox? It plays five different Tibetan chants from its built-in lotus speaker or over headphones. The sales copy notes its "great clarity." But you would expect that from Buddism, n'est pas? And only $4.

Interesting idea -- you create centerpieces or decorations by using this carving tool that makes a hole exactly to fit a votive candle. You can make some very interesting center pieces or at least some topics of conversation.
Perfect for floating votives.

These boxing grannies go mano y mano in the ring. Press the buttons on the base and your granny will come out swingin’. Fortunately, they are still wearing gloves —but it could go extreme at any moment.

The complimentary inverse shapes of these whisky tumblers are exactly the same but completely different. The frozen soapstone cubes that finish this set act just like ice but without diluting your drink. After using them, just rinse the stones in water and pop them back in the freezer for next time.

Assemble your very own snowglobe! Kit includes the globe, one set of images for the front and back, glittery particles, and the easy instructions. I like Bill Gates splashing in money, but choose others or add your own pic.

It's never too late -- now you can own the Official Nancy Drew Handbook with tips on fashion and beauty, romance, relationships, survival, sleuthing, and success. Does a girl/woman need anything else?

Cars have rear-view cameras -- why not bikes? The Cerevellum does just that, plus a heart rate monitor and a GPS module too. The Hindsight camera allows you to see exactly what's behind you without turning your head or using awkward mirrors.

Chill while your grill with the George Foreman MP3 indoor/outdoor electric grill. It's MP3 ready with a plug-in for your player and a 10-watt speaker (MP3 player sold separately). Features nonstick cooking surface and adjustable temperature-control probe.

Keep track of your pets and find your car when you have a senior moment. With GPS technology Zoombak helps you locate dogs, cars, and drivers while they are on the road. As their motto states, they are Putting Safety On The Map.

Talk about a confusing name -- I thought the Turkey Cannon was a trebuchet for poultry. Turns out it's a roasting cylinder that infuses moisture and will cook a 12-lb turkey in less than 2 hours.

Not sure why I find this so amusing, but if you want a splash of bacon zest to spice up your oral hygiene routine, these bacon-flavored toothpicks are for you. Each 3" x 1-1/4" x 1/2" tin contains eighty toothpicks, so pig out on some ribs.

Looking for the olfactory nostalgia of the first day of school? Crayon Cologne smell just like a fresh box of crayons. And if that doesn't take you back, they also make bubble gum, cotton candy, and that all-time favorite -- cannabis. 1.0 fl. oz.

Put your appetizers on this set of four Monopoly game board plates! These include Community Chest, Electric Company, Water Works and Luxury Tax. Or you can simply display them as fun collectibles! 5.25" x 5.25" - Ceramic

Strange that they have an armless torso to model the beer belt, but it is the ultimate in party gear. Holds six cans or bottles of your favorite drink. Now if they can just figure out how to keep it cold.

Make your party painfully amusing by inviting this OUCH! Voodoo Doll Toothpick Holder. Perfect for finger food, emergency hexes, and jump-starting the good times. Each holder is suspended in a elegant clear display-box packing, so everyone gets the point.

If you've been missing the scent of freshly mown grass, this candle will take you back -- without all the work. The candle has a burn time of 20 to 30 hours. Pefect for condo dwellers.

Lots of people have discovered the CamelBak water bottle, but the new Performance model has the Big Bite™ valve and straw, squeezable sides, new cap lock-off, and taste-free polypropylene construction. The integrated handle is easy to carry or hooks on to a pack or waistbelt with a small carabiner. Dishwasher safe.

Talk about over the TOP -- the Wi-Fi detector shirt glows in order to dynamically display the current wi-fi signal strength. Black 100% Cotton T-Shirt. Animated Decal is Removable for washing and
battery pack is concealed in a small pocket. AAA batteries not included.

Does anyone really need a rideable, three-wheeled cooler with a 500-watt electric motor that propels the unit up to 14 mph, and it has a fully-insulated bin that accommodates up to 24 12-oz. beverage cans and 8 lbs. of ice, allowing you to transport chilled food or beverages up to 15 miles on a single charge. And would you believe the seat is sold separately?

The Square Crunch Can by Umbra® is an interactive, multipurpose container that stores toys, linens, magazines, knitting supplies or laundry with ease. It "crunches" down to mere inches when not in use.

What's not to like? A Big Maoi head and shoulders hewn from hefty resin holds a regular sized rectangular tissue box that inserts into the back of the face. Tissues are pulled through and splay through the mammoth nostril. Now that's what I'm talking about!

Made from recycled truck inner tubes, the Retread Tote is definitely where the rubber of recycling meets the road. Each bag is handmade and bears mysterious markings. Approx. 13.5 inches W x 18 inches L.

We have been fascinated for years by the trebuchet. This Authentic Working Wood Trebuchet will launch small items over 20 feet. Easy to build, all pieces are pre-cut and drilled. Not sure about the ages 9+ part.

Tired of throwing away stale spices you never used? Think organic and convenient and you have tsp spices. Packed in individual packets that looks like those cool sugar tubes, tsp is pre-measured in --- wait for it -- teaspoons!

With its ergonomic grip area for more intuitive and secure operation and sleek design, the HomeHero Fire Extinguisher can easily find a place in the modern kitchen. Rubber foot protects countertops or use the bracket included for wall-mounting. Expected life of 12 years.

The RecycleBone is made from rubbery scraps left over from the manufacture of other chew toys. Dogs love that it's super-strong and fun to gnaw.

Don't cry for me Argentina. I guess if you cut up a lot of onions, this could be a winner for you. Onion Action Goggles are anti-fog and provide a foam seal against vapors that make you tear up.

I've heard of wine flights, but now there is Bee Raw Varietal Honey Flight that offers a complete tasting from around the country. Great gift for a serious hone lover. Hand-corked and sealed with bees wax.

Not sure if anyone really needs this --- but the 11-1/2-inch peanut butter and jelly spreader is color-coded to keep track of scooping and prevent mixing in jars (can't have that!). Dishwasher-safe; 25-year warranty.

Gently scented with sandalwood, this vegetable oil and glycerine Sumo soap is naturally moisturizing so it won't dry your skin out and, no animal testing is involved.

Nothing to buy here, but find out how to tell which side the gas filler is on your rental car without getting out of the car. You learn something new on the internet every day!

At $250 you have to hope the No!No! hair removal gadget works. It uses Thermicon™ to conduct a gentle pulse of heat to the hair. The patented wire and built-in safety mechanisms has allowed for the adaptation of professional hair removal technology into a home use product. Who will try it first?

Something new under the sun -- the solar powered shaver is here. The Sol Shaver Solar Razor has an integral solar panel just leave it in the sun to charge and then tuck into your shirt pocket and you have a self powered shaver at the ready at all times.

Grandkids won't eat? Get them this dinner set with a bulldozer pusher, fork lift fork, and front loader spoon. Designed with function and play value in mind, these "tools" have textured, easy grip handles and detailing that allows little hands to hold on tight. Dishwasher safe.

From the Things are not always what they seem department. From Chef's Planet, this odd looking tool makes perfect mashed potatoes every time. Made of dishwasher safe plastic, it's
8H x 5" diameter.

Start with a cool design by metz and kindler for wmf of germany, then add clever name -- the smar teapot, and heat-resistant glass and matte-stainless finish. 1.5qt, H 8". Perfect for blending your own teas.

If you're an organization freak, these spiral-bound To Do notebooks organize your to do lists by color and category. You got Shop, Call, Do/Buy, Contact and Do. If you can't pull your life together with these helpers, then don't leave the house.

The Peanut Butter Mixer makes mixing natural peanut butter quick, easy, and mostly mess free. Simply lubricate the mixing rod with a little bit of peanut or olive oil, slide into jar, use the coordinated lid, and stir. The mixing rod cleans itself upon removal from the jar!

If you're tired of all life's tangled cords, the CORDhog takes up the extra slack to adjust your cord to just the right length. Only 2 inches in diameter the CORDhog holds nearly 12 feet of wire. Compact enough to fit in a drawer or glove box.

If messy stacks of magazines on the coffee table have you down, the Umbra Mag Table is a solid wood coffee table with slots in the surface for magazines. Measures 39 x 19 x 13"

The Prepara herb-savor will prolong the life of your fresh herbs for up to 3 weeks so you can enjoy fresh, flavorful meals every time you cook. Herb stems remain submerged in stainless steel base. Fits easily on the frig door.

The Frisper Freshkeeper offers a most convenient way to keep your food fresh. Frisper combines the power of professional vacuum sealer systems and the ease of zipper-top Vac-Snap bags in a small unit that can stay on your kitchen counter.

Not only do I like it -- I've got to have one. The Mouse Trap unzips and opens to a flexible mouse pad. Perfect for laptops on the go. Hand-washable and available in 3 color combos.

You&Me is the smallest espresso machine in the world. Extremely compact size, silent delivery, high quality coffee and cappuccino. All this, with the highest standards of safety, solidity and reliability. Colours: Satin Anthracite, Satin Grey, Shiny Red.

A little "spacey" but a a clever way to suspend a wine bottle the way David Copperfield does it -- the chain wine bottle holder. Designed by Peleg Design. H25 x W15 x D15cm

Space saving silicone bowls squish, squash and pack down into the tiniest spaces. They pop right back into shape – ready for dinner or a quick snack. Made of flexible food grade silicone. Temperature resistant to 400F.

The retro looking "moonbeam" clock wakes sleepers up with a gently illuminating light. Just in case you fall back asleep, a bell sounds. Available in five colors, has a snooze feature, fully lighted dial, and battery backup.

The Mirage Bowl produces a small, full-color hologram that allows 360-degree viewing. It resembles a small wok with a 2-inch circular opening in the top. Whatever you put under the lid looks like it's floating in space.

Ridiculously simple yet practical beyond belief, the wine wedge is brimming with 'why-didn’t-I-think-of-that' factor. Besides building wine pyramids, you can use them to stack cans in the fridge as well.

Made with polished zinc wire and a semi translucent shade, the little reading man will keep you company while you read your own bedtime stories. Measures 5w x 5d x 6h"

This bamboo cutting board is arder than maple, which means less visible knife marks, and bamboo resists moisture. Rubber feet keep the board in place when you are cutting or preparing your food, and the inset bowls (2 included) make chopping a breeze.

The microchip is the best way to find your dog, but a Dog-e-Tag is the next best thing. Stores up to 40 lines of information, and a large quantity of data such as cell phone numbers, pager numbers, e-mail addresses, county license numbers, rabies vaccine numbers, vet contact, etc.

You already know that PUR makes water faucet filters, but now they have added flavored cartridges. That's right -- now you can enjoy filtered tap water in strawberry, raspberry, and peach.

Tired of hunting for the candles when the power goes out? Chect out these 8 Hour Emergency Power Failure Lights. Fits in between the light socket and the bulb of most standard table and floor lamps. Built-in rechargeable batteries automatically recharge when power comes back on.

Unroasted coffee beans are very good sources of antioxidants. Caffe Sanora has found a way to preserve antioxidants even after roasting. You end up with a cup of great tasting coffee with antioxidant levels greater than most green teas. There's a decaf version too.

The Newspaper Bowl makes recycling into high art. A bright red string is threaded into the bowl to create a contrasting spiraled shape. The red string, which is loose at the ends, signifies the unpredictable, never ending path of life. Feel free to leave it loose, or trim it.

The Built NY bag is made of neoprene, the material for wet suits, which will keep food insulated for several hours, so it makes a great lunch bag. Has a zip top and interior pocket for items such as cell phones, wallets or keys. Stain resistant & machine washable. 13.5"W x 13.5"H x 6"D

A watch that doesn't look like a watch - the Nooka Zub Zen has a unique rubber cuff design. The face has 2 bars that represent the hours, another for the minute, and a numeric display for seconds and day of week. A hidden, fully adjustable clasp keeps it closed. Waterproof with alarm, chronograph and EL backlight.

They call it the Satellite Dish, and in High Definition ice blue with its slanted stem, it does look very high tech. Handblown colored glass bowl is great for sorbets and desserts, or anything you want to give extra attention.

I've been thinking for quite a while that someone needs to invent a really good folding keyboard so the next generation can still use their thumbs (and pay for my social security). Sierra Bluetooth Keyboard looks like a winner.

Brilliant! A way to keep track of your plugs - especially those crazy mixed up ones that reside in our surge protectors. You write out your description on these plug labels and then rest easy.

This authentic orange phone from the 60s is a nostalgic throwback to classic deisgn. Each phone is restored by hand and there is a wonderful ringtone. Most of these phones are coming from Argentina.

LaLa Land lunchboxes will make everyone notice you -- and want one of there very own. They come with a matching thermos too. Great gift for your grown up kids.

The shrunken head necklace is a bit macabre, but on the other hand, it is quite heavy metallic looking. Created by Tobias Wistisen, the heads have that 80s thing going on -- kind of whodo voodoo.

Just when you thought you had seen all the Crocs, out comes the new Off Road Clog. Ideal for jagged mountainsides, craggy red rocks or a meadow full of mud. Slip-resistant sole and footbed plus a protective toe cap. It's like a 4 wheel drive shoe.

Okay, this one is a little crazy, but if you're tired of an ugly TV in the bedroom, check out the Original Underbed Lift. In 35 seconds, it hides a 50” panel under a king size bed. Requires only 8” of clearance. What will they think of next?

A lot of recycled Asian newspaper has ended up at the Container Store. Their new collection of storage baskets is made entirely out of old newspapers. Comes in three sizes and has a coat of light matte lacquer to keep the newsprint from smearing or tearing. If you look closely you can pick out individual characters.

Make your toast and the egg in one step with the Egg Poaching Toaster. In just four minutes from lift-off you've got a complete meal. The wide-mouth fits English muffins or bagels, and there's also a warming tray. Poach or steam scramble your egg with counter-top convenience.

This clock wiggles like it has a mind of its own. Sometimes quick and happy, sometimes smooth and
elegant, and then again a little shy and in need of a nudge. But whatever its mood, WiggleWiggle is always alive and on time!

The Vin-Eau Carafe cleverly stores 2 cups in its top and holds 1.5 liters of wine, water, lemonade, Bellinis, or whatever slakes your thirst. Looks great on any table and draws lots of favorable attention.

One of the most recommended brands of sunscreen in an independent national survey of U.S. dermatologists, the Blue Lizard sunscreen bottle turns blue when exposed to UV rays. What better reminder that it's time to protect your skin from those mean rays.

In its very own insulated sleeve, the Klean Kanteen is a 12 oz (0.35L) bottle that is a green alternative to throw away plastic cups. Safe stainless steel, wide mouth, toxin free. Sleeve snaps around strollers or belts. 4 colors

Since plastic grocery bags are on the outs, you might want to stock on Baggus -- the reusable grocer by that holds as much as 2-3 of the old plastic bags. Lots of colors and a lot of feel good that you're not putting more bags in a landfill that won't degrade for 1,000 years.

Kanom charcoal sachets absorb the odors you don't want and infuse a natural fragrance based on essential oils. Sold as a set of three scented with you choice of chamomile blue and sage clary, cassia and cinnamon, or peppermint.

Okay, this is very strange but it is funny. Hand soap shaped like little hands! Made from goat’s milk glycerin and lightly scented, you've got to hand it to them. Perfect for the guest bathroom.

Tight for space in the kitchen? this ingenious portable breakfast bar is the answer. When folded, it measures 30"w x 16"d x 33"h. Use it as breakfast bar or appliance card. Great way to create instant eat-in kitchen.

These handmade aluminum leaf plates are made from recycled aluminum, and make a great backdrop for appetizers, candles or desserts. Small 7.75" x 5.5", Medium 11" x 8", Large 17" x 10".

Kimono Girl Paper Lanternsare a great way to add Asian-inspired decor. Requires seprate electric cord, available in red or green 16" Diameter paper.

It's all about back support if you want a comfy seat back at the beach, and the Lawrence Laske designed Beach Chair does that. Push the Beach Chair into the sand, place your foot in the lower opening and push down until the back rests on the sand.

This canvas barrow collapses for easier storage, without the heavy weight of an all steel body. Only weighs 12 pounds and you can fit it in your car trunk.
Holds up to 3 Cu.Ft. and the barrow conforms to shape of load

It may look unassuming, but the rock vase is a very special way to showcase any sturdy stem. The base is cast bronze with an indentation to hold the water. Line up two or more on a table and it's very effective. Measures 3.5 by 12 inches.

Designer Olav Slingerland created these Slow Motion Bowls that convey a natural fluid motion. Double glazed, food save and in great colors.

Everybody wants to cook like Mario Batali, so Copco has come out with Mario's pizza set. Includes pizza wheel, turner, scraper, prep bowls, rolling pin, measuring spoons, mozzarella slicer, pizza pan, garlic slicer, pizza peel and work mat. The rest is up to you.

If you're tired of spilling the tea, you can't miss with this clever teapot, because you never have to lift it up. Plus, the holder is the heater, so just add water and tea and you're ready to go.

Get a real close up view of the birds with the Songview In-house Window Feeder. Made of cedar and one-way mirror film, it installs in your window without screws or nails. Fits window openings 24-inches to 39-inches.

We've hear the expression that a wine "has legs," but the Cino wine bottle holder really does have legs. It keeps your wine inclined at just the right angle to let it breathe. Simple but elegant.

Visit Shanghai without leaving the dining table -- City Plates have a downtown map printed on a 12"porcelain plate so you can eat your way through the heart of Berlin, LA, or Cairo.

The next big eco friendly trend could be in sponges, if Twist Sponge has anything to say about it. Biodegradable and stylish, the Euro Sponge could be the next big thing. And there's a loofah version as well.

There is something very serene about a Buddha Candle -- a certain zen spirit. These detailed Buddhas are impressive wax sculptures, you may have mixed feeling about lighting the match. Wood scented with notes of leather, grasses and flora. Burn time is 15 hours.

No more running back and forth to the outdoor grill to check on the steaks. The Redi-Chek Remote Thermometer comes with a probe and a remote receiver that keeps you informed on the timing and temperature at distances up to 100 feet.

The Clote Velcro Key Holder is a very handy way to keep track of your keys. The color coded circles and matching fobs give you a system that can help you identify your keys faster. Assembled in a workshop for physically challenged people in Germany.

If you want to shock your dinner guests, take a look at Matt Smith’s new collection of plates and tableware. Each set contains one half of a tasteful nude. Choose from a cowboy, cowgirl, naked runner, or vintage mistress.

This Eva Solo Milk and Sugar Set is simple and stylish design. Sugar neatly dispenses one teaspoon every time the dispenser is inverted. Milk dispenser has a drip-free lip and snug-fitting rubber lid.

Get fancy at the next party or cook-out with umbrella straws. They keep the hot sun off your drinks and are definitely a conversation starter. Straws sold in sets of 12.

This updated take on wooden buidling blocks by Automoblox allows kids to design their own sleek cars and think outside the box. Made of beechwood and plastic, this is the kind of cool teaching toy you wish we had when we were young.

Here's a retro flashback -- PanAm flight bags in durable PVC. Just a reminder of the days when flying was fun and they handed out wings.

Here's a cool bag made from rescued Dacron sails. The Reiter8 totes are handmade and fully lined with cotton canvas. There's a magnetc closure, inside pockets and 17" nylon webbing strap.

The European trend in stem-free glassware has reached our shores. While not sacrificing the sophisticated tastes of wines, they also are great for water or juices. Dishwasher-safe. 4" diam., 4.5" h.

If you've been looking for a super functional basket, Basket by Blomus is it. Will hold everything from fruit and eggs to magazines and light bulbs. Sometimes, you can't do any better than simple and affordable.

The Faucet Light changes tells you whether the water is hot (red) or cold (blue) by changing the light color. Universal adapter fits most faucets, battery pack built in. It's a light show for your sink!

Never mind what time it is, sometimes it's hard to keep track of what day it is. The Big Flip Calendar Clock gives you time, year, month, and day in easy to see white letters. Great way to reduce those senior moments.

A glass inside a glass, the buoy vase is like a bobbing buoy at sea. Designer, Michael Ruh has created a truly unique way to present flowers or to serve as a decorative object on its own. Hand made glass available in many colors.

When your guests reach for a coaster, why not give them something to remember? These Street Sign Coasters are also a pretty neat way to recycle old street signs.

Made from Mexican Sol beer bottles, these cool tumblers are recycled in Wisconsin and sold in sets of 4. Viva las cervezas!

Available in 12 cool colors, Smartwrap, gets rid of messy earphone cords that get you all tangled up. Snap the cord in and wind up the surplus. Sounds good!

Looking like naturally occuring driftwood, this Driftwood Vase is actually made of unglazed porcelain, while the inside is glazed for water tightness. Flower are held upright by the 3 openings at top. 8 1/2"l x 4"w x 12 3/4"h.

We call them Brownie Butts, but whatever you call those crisp edges, The Baker’s Edge brownie pan gives you a whole lot more of them - like 10 corners instead of 4. Yum!

Want to change jobs or find the best job to take you into retirement? Check out 225 Best Jobs For Baby Boomers. Get the lowdown on annual earnings, growth, annual job openings, % self-employed, % part-time, percentage of workers by age bracket, and more.

Forget messy stove or counter tops! The Lazy Spoon is notched so it balances on the edge of the pot or pan-- and they have a left-handed version as well. Handcrafted from wild cherry wood, you have to admit this is very clever.

What's a sticklebook™?
It's the world's first invisible shelving system. It's a great way to store paperback books in a way that appears to defy gravity - and keep people guessing.

Take old Japanese newspaper and recycle into paper mache products, and you have instant cool stuff with exotic appeal. It's another Why-Didn't-I-Think-of-That idea.

Airtight Coffee Dispenser - The airtight Zevro Indispensable Coffee Dispenser, delivers exactly 1 tablespoon of ground coffee at a time directly into your coffee maker. Available in white or chrome for $25.

Like the Buddha himself, the Buddha Bowl is all about comfort. It rests in the palm of your hand and is perfect for ice cream, cereal, or a jumbo latte.

The Big Chill Fridge may look vintage, but on the inside it's all high tech. Available in 8 colors like pink lemonade and cherry red, these beauties require no defrosting (you remember that chore). Just the site of the finned pull handle will have you thinking back to the good old days.

Accessorize your sink with this flexible plastic sink caddy. Fits standard double kitchen sink and comes in 4 colors. Great for holding sponge/scrub brush.

Now you can own your own Zoltar, the classic fortune teller. It not only speaks your fortune, it prints it out for you as well. Enclosed in tempered glass, Zoltar looks just like the real thing. Don't forget to bring quarters.

A simple key turn starts the Mozart melodies from inside the solid wooden ball music box. Plays whether the ball is rolling or standing still. Available in premium light beech or dark oak, with wind-up key and ring-shaped cradle.

The Washi pendant is made of silk screened Japanese paper (Washi) encased in acrylic and mounted in stainless steel case. A very unusual and attractive gift.

This combination radio and flashlight can use regular batteries or bepowered by turning a foldaway hand crank or it can use sunlight to generate power. AM/FM radio with built-in speaker and telescopic antenna. Dimensions are L 9" x H 6" x W 2 3/4".

Want to recycle something and make your home look great at the same time? Try one of these bottles converted to a lantern. Glowing votives add warmth to amber or green blown glass, Adorned with regal fleurs-de-lys. 10.5"H, 4.25" diameter

Apparently, all the cool dogs wear Hawaiian shirts now. This wardrobe featuring 3 different tropical prints gives him something for every occasion--even if it's just a walk around the block. Aloha, dude - make that dog.

Unique air jack from Titan is designed to lift your vehicle in seconds, using its own exhaust gases. Air jack is inflated via a 15-ft. hose that connects to tailpipe. Will easily lift vehicle to aid recovery from mud, sand or snow. Also assists with changing tires and installing tire chains on vehicles, trailers, campers and ATVs.

Grobal uses a unique watering system that keeps your house plants lush, green, and looking sharp. It draws water and nutrients from the resevoir into the Grobal Soil"; in the top chamber. Just check the water level through the water level indicator and refill when needed.

No more juices running over the edge of the chopping board and no more grated cheese flying around. The Eva Solo grating bucket gathers everything at the bottom of the bucket, allowing you to tip the contents straight into the dish. Made from polished stainless steel.

These fine wooden bowls are handcrafted in a wide assortment of useful sizes and rich colors to meet every dining and serving need. All bowls are completely food-safe and can be used for fruits, salads, or vegetables and dips. Wash and dry by hand and store at moderate temperatures to enjoy these bowls for many years.

Tired of your cat camping out on your keyboard - while you're trying to use it? The Kit-In Box gives cats (and small dogs) a place to rest that's out of the way, but still an arm length's away from a scratch on the belly.

These gardening tools snuggle together, interlocking to save space and create grace. The tools can be stored in a wall-mount holder, which is designed so that it can also be stuck in soil. In three funky colors to match your colorful flowers.

I like the real thing more often than not, but I admire the convenience of these realistic looking outdoor candles. An LED light bulb with built-in micro chip replicates a natural flickering candle. Will supply approximately 12 hours of light on a full charge. The four candle recharging base is included.

Make the most of your space and get more reading done in the bathroom. The latter benefit qualifies this as an educational product. Hooks to side of toilet tank, under tank lid. The over the tank magazine rack will hold several magazines or newspapers.

This Summit multi-band solar radio has FM and MW/SW/LW shortwave bands and operates on solar power, AC current or wind the hand crank for 30 seconds to get 30 minutes of air time. Also features AC/DC power that allows you to charge the unit to provide up to 25 hours per charge.

A cross between a strainer and a ladle, this handy tool allows you to scoop, pour or strain. It’s especially great for straining soups and stocks. The long handle makes it easy to grip and the curved end provides for easy hanging storage. Stainless Steel.

For the runner who likes to know her/his location at all times, the Garmin Forerunner 405 can track your speed, distance, heart rate and location. A touch bezel on the face responds to tapping, holding or running a finger along it.

The Dunk Mug has a hidden cookie compartment so you can sip coffee or tea and nibble on your favorite sweets without the extra clean-up of the cookie plate. Kind of like having your cake and coffee too!

Did you ever stop to think and forget to start again? A senior moment sweathshirt in heather gray sweatshirt is 50/50 cotton blend. Now if you can remember where you put your wallet.

Get safe water wherever you are with these handy filtering and purifying water bottles. A built-in 0.3-micron microfilter meets EPA standards for giardiasis and bacteria removal and a final carbon stage that removes chemicals and off-flavors so your water tastes delicious. Virustat cartridge eliminates viruses from foreign cities or wild streams.

For those who are gift wrap challenged (you know who you are), Hallmark has come out with adhesive wrap that takes some of the challenge out of putting the paper around a package. All you need is a scissors and opposable thumbs...even a monkey can do it.

Carry both your coffee and your sandwich easily and in one hand with Pick Up. The convex shape of the mug’s waist makes it easy to hold, simple to stack and ensures that it slots safely into the hole in the tray.

No matter how you slice it, and in this case it's 3 ways, the 3-in-1 Egg Slicer is a must have. Unlike conventional egg slicers, the 3-in-1 slices widthwise, lengthwise AND makes wedges. A clever kitchen gadget for the cook who thinks they have everything! Wires are stainless steel.

Irony and functionality combined, these Benta plates have an upward bend that doubles as a handle. With the Benta, you can get a one-handed grip that also prevents spillage. Executed in fine bone china and come as a set of two in a gift box. 9.5" dia x 2".

Ideal for wet sink areas -- egg shaped mirror on duck feet. Made from tumbled pewter. If it walks like a ducks and talks like a duck, it's a duck mirror. Should bring a smile to your face every morning.

Strange looking, but with the Thumb Thing on your thumb the two wings will hold the pages of a book open more easily than if you just used your hand. Ideal for one-handed reading in bed, in the bath or at the beach. Use as a book mark when not using. Comes in thumb hole sizes and assorted colors.

Granny Racers hit the road racing track! Game includes 2 granny racers (in super-charged wheelchairs!), 10-piece track and 2 controllers. Man, those old ladies can really move! Requires 4 AA batteries, not included. Go Granny, go!

If you need to talk on the phone in your car and you want to do it safely, check out the Motorola MOTOROKR T505 Bluetooth Car Kit. Lets you take and make calls hands-free and listen to your music with features like echo/noise reduction and Audio Caller ID.

You'll find hundreds of uses for this lightweight, watertight bucket. It pops open when you're ready to weed or wash the car, then folds flat for easy storage. Great for gardening, washing the car or toting. Collapses to just 1.5" H. Nylon storage pouch included

I'm not suggesting you should sleep in the bathroom, but if you do want to rest your head in the tub, you need the right pillow. Let your thoughts float to distant lands with this global map inflatable pillow.

Create your own star show at home with the Discovery Ultimate Star Planetarium. It projecst 88 constellations and 12 celestial objects including the 8 planets, and over 600 stars. There's even a 1 hour timer so you can fall asleep under the stars.

From the why-didn't-they-think-of-this-sooner department. Honibe has come out with the Honey Drop™, the world's first pure, non-sticky honey that you can hold. No more sticky fingers! All natural honey without any additives. Just drop it in your tea or whatever and you're done. Say by to sticky bear.

Adultery, Backstabbing, Love Making... OH My!! Relive every moment of your favorite soaps! Soap Opera sopas are made in the USA with triple-milled, all-natural essential oils. Lather up with a fresh verbena/lavender scent.

This smart looking Michael Graves 1.5-qt. kettle features an extra-large spout for easy filling, pouring and cleanin. Enamel coats a steel body and it has a heat-resistant handle with an ergonomic design, plus a flip-up whistle.