Let’s face it, people. Most of us are slobs. Muffin-loving slobs. Muffin-loving, Internet-surfing slobs. Now, give your muffin-loving slobby friend a USB keyboard vac. You plug it directly into your laptop, making it portable, practical, and perfect for stuffing into stockings. And also, for removing stuffing from in between the keys on your keyboard.

I am an Army spouse who has a few young soldiers from my husband’s unit which I have adopted for the next 12 months. Most of them have their laptops with them so I am wondering what gift ideas you may have as far as technology goes. Because of the heat and sand, protecting their computer is a priority.

Beth writes:

I’m dealing with multiple out of town families…. All transplanted new yorkers. Modest budget, we are in a recession. No, really, just a gift to say, hey –thinking of you. In years past I’ve done juniors cheesecakes, cannoli’s from little italy, family board games…. That sort of thing.

Remember when Mrs. Brady lost her voice and Cindy asked Santa Claus to cure her in time to sing at Church on Christmas? Remember when Ralph Kramden sold his bowling ball to pay for a gift for Alice? When Alex P. Keaton endures his own Scrooge-esque nightmare, sitcom-style?

No, you don’t remember? Well, maybe you know someone who does. And that someone would probably enjoy the Holiday Treats DVD.

Eco Dog: Healthy Living for Your Pet by Corbett Marshall and Jim Deskevich demonstrates the everyday dangers in traditional cleaners and pet products–then shows you how to make your own safe, natural foods, flea treatments, and toys. There’s even instructions to recycle your old sweaters into a felt blanket for Sparky. Here’s an idea: Make one of the recipes from the book (but don’t get it dirty!) to present with the gift.

Beautiful, affordable jewelry inspired by plant life and handmade by creator Elizabeth Scott. Shown: Tiny Blossom necklace, $24.

Sesame Street Old School, Volume 2, $26.99. Picture it: 1974-79. Mr. Hooper is still alive. Elmo has yet to be formed out of a devilish blaze of red felt. Richard Pryor reinterprets the alphabet. And Fonzie and Richie Cunningham brush their teeth.