There are at least three things you can do with this column.  If you're a runner, you can use it to come up with gift ideas for your running friends or family members, or you can give it to them for ideas on what to buy you (with big obvious circles of course).  Or you can take it with you to your local running specialty shop buy a few things for your running partners and pick up a few things for yourself too.

With some great help from the store managers I chosen a handful of gifts for every budget and some interesting stocking stuffers.

If you don't have something reflective to wear then one of the following is a must.  Far too often I barely see and come far too close to people (and dogs) running at night without a way to see them. I'm amazed how many runners take chances with their lives.  At Running Fit I found some stylish products from Illuminite. They include reflective jackets, pants, hats, vests and gloves. You can buy a simple jogalite vest for only $15.99, which is pretty cheap insurance.  Or buy a small little blinker light and put it in a cute box.

If money is not an issue one of the products that may completely change all of your log books is the new Timex speed distance monitor, a very sophisticated watch. It works using GPS - global positioning system.  I was amazed how accurately is measures how far you've run and how fast. You can test one at Total Runner in Southfield.

Want to find another way to stay in shape over the winter?  Check out the lightweight Red Feather snowshoes. They'll strap right on to those trail running shoes you bought last summer. A second pair of running shoes is a must especially when the first pair needs to dry from a wet snow.  For casual wear, Merrill's Jungle Moss shoes look great and are the most comfortable slip-ons.

Tortoise and Hare in Ann Arbor may have the perfect warm jacket for you. Try the Cresendo by Pearl Izumi. Or for women, Moving Comfort's briefs or camisoles will wick the moister away and keep you comfortable from the bottom up.

Oakley continues to have some of the finest outdoor eyewear with changeable lenses.  Most impressive is the continued improvement in Nike's watches. My newest one is light weight with big numbers (for those of us that need reading glasses) and fits well on your wrist.

All the running stores carry some excellent running books.  First time marathon runners might try "In the Long Run" by Tim VanWagoner or first time runners will enjoy "The Courage to Start" by John The Penguin Bingham. If you been around the running scene for awhile pick up "The Quotable Runner"

For stocking stuffers try a running log or calendar, Solo's ultimate water bottle and holster. Running socks and gloves are necessaries but body glide gel, deer fly patches and Aloe lip gloss may catch Santa by surprise.

Upcoming Race: Light Fest 8km, Edward Hine Drive, Westland, Tuesday November 18, 7 pm. Call 734 282-1101 for more information.