So many reasons to give special gifts. So little time to shop for them. I've found it helpful to keep a stash of gift-worthy items around the house all year long. That way, when I need to celebrate a birthday, say goodbye to a co-worker, congratulate a couple on their lovely new home, etc., I don't have to spend a full day shopping.

The best presents are both useful and beautiful. At FlaxArt.com, you'll find card cases, book easels, vintage posters, wine bottle bags, frames, umbrellas and a WHOLE lot more — and that's just in the online sale shop. You'll also benefit from the gift that gives back to you right away: A 5% rebate from ConsumerClub.com.

I can hardly discuss gift-giving without my mind turning to the top-notch selection on RedEnvelope.com. Warning: You may have a hard time thinking of anyone but yourself as you browse. Still, you can pick up "one for me, one for you" candles, plants, snacks, jewelry, journals, office supplies and a whole lot more. Right now the Summer Sale may just save you 50% on memorable gifts, some under $10! And you can always count on your 5% rebate from ConsumerClub.com when shopping RedEnvelope.com.

This Sunday the 9th is the last day of the BathandBodyWorks.com Semi-Annual Sale. What does that mean for you and your most treasured friends? Trial-sized beauty essentials, two for $5. Room sprays for the same price. Aromatherapy sugar scrubs only $10. Half-priced hand lotions. And yes, a whole lot more. The sale won't last much longer. But the products will wait patiently for your next attack of generosity.

Another hot online spot for creative gifts: ZGallerie.com. Check out glass bowls, photo frames and albums, entertaining coffee-table books, even jeweled domino sets. Right now the sale shop has lots of lovely candles and vases too. Here's a tip on a gift almost anyone could use: The "Takeout Menu Organizer," complete with binder, pens, menu slots, service rating record cards and more.

I'll end with the aptly named UncommonGoods.com, a site where great gifts happen to good people. From art flipbooks to "Flowers in a Can" to modern salt-and-pepper shakers to "His and Hers" key holders to recycled tin flower art, the gift selection doesn't get much more creative than this. Stock up on gifts for others here and you'll not only earn yourself a virtual halo, you'll earn a 5% rebate from ConsumerClub.com.