Ready for your close-up?
This $25 item is for those using a digital camera to take photos of themselves in front of some landmark. You know the routine: You extend the camera at arm’s length, pointing the lens toward yourself. Click. Trouble is, you’re really prominent in this close-up. The solution: an XShot camera extender. The camera attaches to the end of the monopod. The maker says this device can also be used to make those swirling videos where a subject is centered and the landscape moves around them—if you know how to use the camera’s self-timer. www.xshotpix.com

Modern flicker
Not so affordable at $14,700, but absolutely desirable, is a new, built-in, gas fireplace that can hold its own against any 52-inch, hi-def, plasma widescreen TV. These are zero-clearance, landscape-style units that you can put anywhere in a home where there’s a wall. There’s even a remote control for turning on and adjusting the fire. The fireplace features all kinds of built-in controls, assuring both its safety and continued use if power fails. These can use natural gas or propane. www.wittus.com/wpgasfireplace.htm

Three-wheelin’
The hottest new cycle in the world might be Electrobike’s Pi electric three-wheeler from Dutch company Drymer, known for advanced designs. The trike was developed with TechnologieCentrum Noord-Nederland, a technology company. The electric motor that propels it has 250 watts of power, enough to scoot this machine to about 30 mph. The two front wheels provide stability and sure-footing and both turn into the direction of a curve. Power and speed are controlled by paddle settings. Both a covered and open version will be available when the trike comes to market soon. Expect to pay $8,700. www.drymer.nl