Catalogs solve problems you didn't know you had . . .

From Saturday's paper. A few glimpses from a longer article well worth enjoying.

On occasion, my husband and I are reduced to tears, imagining the poor schlub
charged with writing a compelling copy block for the "festive coffee scoop that
doubles as a bag clamp" and other gadgets the catalog company couldn't give away
any time of year but Christmas.

Below, a seasonal sampler:

• Popcorn.

The Popcorn Factory has packaged this humble exploded seed so many ways it needs 47 pages to display them all. . . .

My favorite is the Peace on Earth Popcorn Tin, accompanied by this message: "The first step toward world peace is bringing people together. And what better way is there than to share sweet and savory treats?"

Who knew? We could have wrapped up the Hundred Years War in three days with Orville Redenbacher on our side. . . .

• Snowman Kit. "Everything you need to dress Frosty in his finest, except the snow." Includes coal, carrot, buttons and pipe, all made of wood and mounted on skewers. $14, Restoration Hardware.

Correct me if I'm wrong. The fun in making a snowman or woman or dog is individualizing it, going to the garage and finding a few charcoal briquettes left over from two summers ago and scrounging around for a ratty hat and dated sunglasses.

Snowman kit?

Perfect for the plastic surgeon on your list.

• The Carbib . . . from Solutions may look like an ordinary kitchen apron, but don't be fooled. This is a special apron designed exclusively for people who eat in their cars.

"This 'apron' covers your upper body and lap, directing any spills and crumbs to the floor for easy cleanup."

Additionally, "A front pocket keeps fries or cell phones accessible."

If you're like me, you saw the Carbib and thought to yourself: "Darn! All those times I traveled I-25 with one hand on the wheel and the other wrapped around a big, juicy slice of watermelon. . . . What I wouldn't have given to have known about this product years ago." . . .