December 1979

Sharing Your Family's Holidays

No matter how tempting the turkey, how glistening the tree, or how high the presents stacked under it, the true magic of the holidays comes from being with loved ones. If you'll be sharing this year's festivities with friends and/or relatives, count yourself lucky. But you can make the holiday season even more special by welcoming a newcomer into your home-- maybe someone less fortunate than you.

Neat organizer

Toys in time for Christmas

Fold-away hideaway

Wine by wire

Houdini table

Fool-the-eye vinyl

Green-growing windows

Space-saving sofa/storage peninsula

This sleek peninsula combines four functions in one compact package: seating for four, shelf space for a small library, a buffet/serving counter, and a secret compartment for sports equipment.

How to select a sewing machine

Whether you sew for personal satisfaction or to save on the rising cost of ready-made clothing, a good sewing machine is a must. Here's how to buy the right one for your purpose and your pocket.

Make an entrance

STOCKING STUFFER GIFT GARDENS

Go to any florist shop during the holiday season and you can find gift plants in profusion. The only hitch is, they're apt to cost a pretty penny. But if you scout around, you can find many delightful and low-cost small foliage plants that say "Happy Holidays" just as merrily as the store-bought standbys.

His 'n hers closets

Mornings can be tough enough without having to hunt for your clothes in a crowded closet. And it's likely to be crowded if you share it with your spouse. This couple relieved the storage crunch by building a set of his and hers closets in the corners of the bedroom, and got a vanity with a view in the bargain.

How sharp is your driving vision?

Nowhere is good vision more important than on the highway. In large measure, your life-- and the lives of other drivers-- depends on how well you can see. Driving requires your constant awareness of the big picture around you and frequent focusing on objects to the front, sides, and rear that require quick reactions.

Door decor

GOOD GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS

When you want a special gift to present a traveler, there's no need to rush to the store for an expensive item. By using your imagination, you can assemble a kit of things that will make the recipient's trip a little easier or more enjoyable.

HOW TO BE A WELCOME HOSPITAL VISITOR

No matter how fine the facility or friendly the staff, a stay in the hospital can be lonesome. This is especially true during the holidays, when thoughts focus on home, family, and friends.

Close-cutting razor

Super exerciser

Speaking translator

Unique composite racquet

Super stereo pair

Electronic toaster oven

Tips on sunlamp safety

Using a sunlamp is an easy way to replace your winter pallor with a summerlike tan. But proceed with caution: It is estimated that 11,000 injuries from misuse of sunlamps and heat lamps are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year. Here's advice on how to use sunlamps and heat lamps for best results and maximum safety.

Terry cloth tips

As you think ahead to summertime sewing, be sure to include versatile terry cloth in your plans. The following information will help guide you in your purchase of this frequently used household fabric.

CHRISTMAS IS FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

In this, the International Year of the Child, it's only fitting that we focus on the special "child" in each of us. For it's this precious childlike quality that comes shining through during this happiest of holidays. No matter how old we are, Christmas lets us feel young again-- as we renew friendships, bask in the special moments of sharing, spread the joys of giving.

How to order material from the magazine

The pick of the new pet books

Every Christmas season a bumper crop of new pet books crowds bookshop and department store shelves. This year is no exception. To help you choose the best for yourself and perhaps for gifts, here's a rundown of some of the top pet books published this fall.

Shopping editor's choice

Discover the ease and pleasure of shopping by mail. Order from the convenience of your own home with complete confidence. If not delighted, each company will happily refund your money.

The Man Next Door

Bill Norman shudders to think where he'd be if his dream of winning $100 a week for life and retiring had come true a few years back. Now Bill says he's adapted his fantasy to accommodate today's economic realities: He'll settle for no less than $500 a week, plus an escalator clause to cover cost of living increases.