The Web makes shopping a wonderfully relaxing experience, as long as you know you're able to do so in a safe environment. I've purchased items from the stores listed in this article, or know someone who has, so I have no reservations about recommending them to you. No doubt about it--they'll make your life a lot easier!

Do you enjoy giving perfume or cologne as gifts (or buying them for yourself!)? If so, FragranceNet is the place for you. The site offers over 1000 genuine name brands at up to 70% off the retail price. You pay no shipping charges, gift wrapping is free, and your purchases are shipped out in record time. Can't beat it!

If you like to send gifts that are a little different, try sending a cookie bouquet. Cookies by Design offers the cutest cookie bouquets you've ever seen--and yes, they're good enough to eat! Pick a category for your gift, such as birthday, anniversary, or holiday, then browse through the delightful selections. I personally like the bouquet that says, "Happy Birthday You Old Buzzard."

What about a book store that offers 2.5 million titles? At Amazon, you don't even have to dig through bookshelf after bookshelf to find what you're looking for--just click on the "search" button. This online store is truly amazing.

If you can't find the software program you're looking for in a local store, head on over to Software.net, where you can search by category or title. They offer a whopping 21,000 software titles in all, 3000 of which can be downloaded on the spot.

At 1-800-FLOWERS, you can send traditional flower bouquets, plants, or balloons, or you can even send gourmet baskets year round. Choose the occasion, the category, and even select a price range.

If you enjoy handmade table linens and placemats, visit Place Settings. The site offers placements in a wide variety of designs, such as magnolias, cowspots, fruit, or wisteria and rose. Each set comes with matching napkins.

If you're a collector, you'll love Barbara's Hallmark, where you'll find collectibles such as Russ Berrie¨, Department 56¨, or Seraphim Classics¨ by Roman.

What if you're in the market to buy something, but you have no idea where to look? Buy IT Online allows you to search the Web for whatever you're trying to buy.

Robin Nobles is a freelance writer who can be reached at robinnobles@robinsnest.com.

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