Personalized boxer shorts, $19.99 at Snapfish.

Whether for one clean sweep or 6 months of weekly service (and anything in between), giving the gift of housekeeping is sure to be appreciated by busy mothers, stressed-out couples, and all-around slobs. Contact local cleaners beforehand to get an idea of what it will cost–many even offer gift certificates. Then, write a card informing the recipient of their gift. Their eyes will be as sparkling as their hardwood floors.

Imagine it’s Christmas Eve, and you’re on your way to a big family dinner, but you’ve been too busy to buy presents because you’re a neurobiologist at Columbia and you’ve been studying proton transfers in the frontal lobe all week. (OK, so maybe there was a little too much back story.) You have an hour to shop. Go. (To kill two birds with one stone, I’ve selected items that are also available on Amazon.com, where you can order through today and still use free super-saver shipping to get your items by December 24.)

Sock Monkey 2009 Wall Calendar, Sock Monkey Slippers, Gift Box of 10 Sock Monkey Cards . . . And more for the sock monkey fan in all of us.

What to get for the parents that have everything – or buy it the instant they sense they might want it? Tiny bonsai tree? Scone sampler and coffee? Coffee table book or a book starring you?

Dear Present Professor,
We have a tradition in our family that we give to charity as a “main” gift, then we exchange small gifts for fun on Christmas Day. We’re looking for a new idea this year. Any suggestions?

For the game enthusiast on your list, check out the Xbox 360 Cooling Station, the Boompod Audio Chair, or a variety of gaming apparel and accessories.

And enter to win one of two Spectrobes: Beyond the Portals games for Nintendo DS.