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I can't stress enough the need of securing a pet during car travel but I know many people don't have a crate or belt to strap in a large pooch. So that's where the Zip Line Dog Car Harness ($40) comes in. This new product from Brookstone (makers of North's seat) will let your pooch roam freely in the backseat or rear of an SUV but still securely holds him in case of sudden stops.

Operating like a zip line between rear seatbelt handles, your dog can move back and forth but not climb out the window or fly forward into the front seats. And, for furry families on the go, the included, padded harness can be detached from the zip line and added to a seat belt (for a more secure fit) or even straight to the normal leash for walkies!

This looks waaaaaay too tempting for any super computer-obsessed kitty — I mean, it's like giving felines a starting line to pounce at the mouse! Still, for more calm cats, Brookstone's new desktop cat seat ($70) offers a so-close-yet-far-enough-away option for pets who want to monitor your every move.

Simply clamp to either side of your work space or place directly on the desk (protective felt pads included) and let your small pet remain close enough for petting, but encourage her to cuddle up somewhere other than on top of the keyboard!

If getting fit is a petsolution in your family, and someone else has already clamored for doggie walk duties, let another family member get doggie driver responsibilities. Brookstone's new Doggie Driver ($29.95) works like a golf club, while also throwing a tennis ball up to 300 feet. Have pooch sit and wait at a safe distance while you work on your follow through, his doggie instincts take over as he fetches it back, and then the modified golf club even snaps up the ball for you, saving your swing hand from slobber.

I adore reading about luxury gadgets I would never purchase - from $20,000 gold and diamond encrusted iPod shuffles to $800 Titanium iPod Nano Cases. What I don't understand are semi-luxury items (as in items you don't really need, but might want) that aren't even all that luxurious.

The Relaxation Sound Chair from Brookstone aims to be one of those highly-coveted gamer and music enthusiast items, yet its function is lacking. It's just a regular chair that rocks on the floor and has a plug in slot for your MP3 or CD player. Of course there's also a headphone jack for private listening. The chair costs $139, which may sound inexpensive, but I for one seriously question the necessity or draw. Can't you just sit in your rocking chair and listen to your iPod? Call me when this baby will give me a massage and pedicure.

Spring is approaching fast and you know I am excited because of all the fabulous opportunities to get outside and enjoy the warm (fingers crossed) weather.

You may have snuffed this opportunity in the past but the office softball league may be something you want to consider now that you're on this healthy new path. Usually joining group activities like this are great ways to get out, get to know your coworkers, get active, burn calories and perhaps win some sort of championship against other companies. Most office leagues have a wide range of skill sets so it's totally OK it you weren't a softball star in high school or college. Now is the time to keep your ears open at the office and ask around, as most leagues are starting to assemble. If your office does not currently have a softball league, think about starting one yourself. Most parks and recreation centers have information and you can also ask your industry colleagues if your company can play in their tournament this year.

Already signed up and need to practice? This Radar Pitch Baseball ($25.00, pictured above) measures and reports the velocity of the pitch when it’s caught. Pretty cool, huh? Buy it from Brookstone.com.