The onslaught of holiday shopping ads has started, despite the gloom of a crippled economy. That means we'll be deluged with all kinds of new stuff to entice us to spend, including this thing called The Snuggie.

It costs $19.95. The Snuggie (not to be confused with the Snuggle fabric softener) basically is a blanket with sleeves to keep you warm on chilly, winter days. I'm not a genius, but I find that a simple blanket or a cozy, thick sweater usually does the trick. The company's pitch is this: "Blankets are OK but they can slip and slide, plus your hands are trapped inside. The Snuggie keeps you totally warm and gives you the freedom to use your hands. Work the remote, use your laptop, or do some reading in total warmth and comfort."

I dunno. It reminds me of the outfit that Sir Alec Guinness wore as Obi-Wan Kenobi in "Star Wars." I guess Sir Alec could have ditched his plain brown wrapper for a more fashion chic choice in Snuggie burgundy, royal blue or sage green.... Hmm, I wonder if the Snuggie comes with a light saber.