Have a neat freak on your gift list? Check out the Dirt Devil Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum ($27.97 at Amazon). It’s almost like a Transformer, only instead of transforming from Shia Labeouf’s car into a warrior robot, it transforms from a stylish work of art into a handy hand vac.

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?

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.

Susan asks:

What do you get a 79 yr old Jewish mother-in-law who opens her gift and says: “Oh, thank you. I hope you saved the receipt, because I can’t imagine that I would ever use this.”?

In the Green Eggs and Ham Speedy Diner game, one person is the “chef,” calling out the orders of each dinner guest (the fox, the goat, and the mouse). Players (”waiters”) have to choose the proper items based on food, color and shape, and deliver them to the guests. The web site describes it as “fast-paced, frenetically fun” and, um, yes, frenetic is the right word. Read on and enter to win the Horton Hears a Who “You to the Rescue” game!

Susan writes:

I’m trying to come up with a good gift for an entire famiy. Two parents and six kids (ages 2-11). I’ve given up on trying to get them individual gifts and now would like to come up with something they can use as a family. Got any ideas?

Hi, Susan! Try a DVD boxed set–one with plenty of content for the whole family to enjoy for many years to come.