Leaving Footprints

Even in Southern California, winter means fewer days when the kids can play outside. Get them away from the TV and into the kitchen with a cookie project.

One cool helper is this baking kit from the Nature Co. It includes sugar cookie mix and frosting mix, as well as polar bear, snowshoe hare and emperor penguin footprint cookie cutters. Paws for reflection, so to speak.

$12 at most Nature Co. locations. Or call (800) 607-7888.

Downtown Lights

Recycled hardwoods are carved into elegant candlesticks by the artists of the nonprofit Skid Row Access, an organization dedicated to helping homeless artists help themselves. The money brought in helps the group buy supplies for artists who otherwise wouldn’t be able to work.

Set of two, $20. Call (800) 517-1133 Ext. 5843 or (213) 624-1773 to order candlesticks or get a catalog.

It’s Shakemate

Here’s one chess set that lets you really tell the white pieces from the black ones: They’re all salt or pepper shakers. Sure to be welcome at any table.

Salt and pepper chess set, $154; available from Tzabaco, (800) 856-1667.

Oil Discovered

The age of exotic oil discoveries is not over. The rich, suave pumpkin seed flavor of Loriva’s Roasted Pumpkin Seed Oil will be useful in creative salads, stir-fries and baked goods.

Available at supermarkets and health food stores.