Truly useful gifts!

I cut down on catalogue subscriptions last year so the ones I receive now are the ones I really enjoy. Last night as I perused a few of my favorites, I was struck by the number of really wonderful stocking stuffer gifts available this year.  For example, there's one called the Life Hammer which is actually a type of knife that can easily and quickly cut a seat belt in an emergency.  For $20 you can make all of your loved ones who drive a lot safer on the road! I found it in the Solutions Catalogue. (www.Solutions.com; item 86304; $19.95)

There's always someone on your list who doesn't have space for a shredder, right? Well, the Container Store has a stainless steel shredding scissors! They fit so neatly into an office or kitchen drawer.  For a mere $8.99 you can help someone stay safe from identity theft.  It doesn't get any better than that, does it?  Even grandma will make room for one of these. Check out www.thecontainerstore.com.

When I lived through the Northridge earthquake, I wished I had had automatic emergency lights.  The quake plunged me and my golden retriever into darkness. Guess what?  Emergency lights exist!  Bed, Bath & Beyond has one called the General Electric Rechargeable LED Power Failure Night Light.  When you shut off the lights in a room, it provides a soft night light.  In an emergency it turns into a flashlight.  There are many versions of this emergency light.  This one retails for under $20.  I have them in every room of my home!  Check out all the wonderful items at www.bedbathandbeyond.com.  By the way never toss out your Bed Bath and Beyond coupon.  They are honored long past the expiration date.

Have you ever purchased an item and found yourself unable to pry past the sturdy, thief proof packaging? They actually make special package openers.  All the stores mentioned here will have one and they retail for under $10.  Just ask for a 'package opener.'  Ladies, save those manicures!


Finally any one of the books in my One Year to ... series will fit nicely into a stocking this holiday.  You can match the book to your friend or family member's greatest organizing challenge.  I've got one for the home, the office and your finances. 

What practical items will you pop into a stocking this holiday?