Occasionally I see a kitchen gadget that I think is potentially really useful, but hasn't gotten much attention. The latest gadget of that nature is the Black and Decker Lids Off Jar Opener. This electric jar opener can handle jars up to 4 1/2 inches wide and 8 inches high. It would be great for people with limited hand strength or small hands. I've seen a number of my relatives struggle to open vacuum-sealed jars in the past, and this would definitely help them.

I wish I'd known about it prior to the holidays, because it's the kind of practical household gift that I could get for a relative that would really be handy but wouldn't cost a lot of money. I just saw this for the first time, so I doubt that too many people have them yet.