When we began telling folks about our new internet website and that we would look for the bargains, the sales, and the sales promotions that would save our customers some money and, perhaps, some valuable time that would no longer be wasted in shopping.

Why did we choose tools? Because humans tend to gravitate toward their passions. Tools are what my husband, Dick, knows best. His advice column allows visitors to ask questions about how to select and use the tool s/he has in mind.

Also, we chose tools partly out of respect for the fine tools and the craftsmen and women who use them every day to their intended purpose. They repair the things so useful to our way of life. They create beautiful new and useful things. Using tools and then caring for them can foster a sense of order and value.

All kinds of tools will be represented. Hand tools...let's consider the hand tools that are so familiar. The hammer is the first that comes to mind. The first hammer was probably a rock that fit the user's hand comfortably for pounding something, so he set it aside for use in future pounding. What do you suppose that caveman said to his mate when she picked it up and used it and then left it lying around the cave?

Then let's consider the screwdriver...while the hammer runs on brute force, the screwdriver uses the inclined plane to secure one material to another in almost permanent togetherness. But even with that advantrage, the screwdriver has sometimes been a bear to use. You could almost break your own wrist trying to turn a screwdriver. But no longer...because now the most delicate young lady can outperform the strongest carpenter when she uses a power drill or a power screwdriver and he uses his old faithful hand screwdriver. She can predrill the hole for the screw, then change bits, screw in the screw with very little resistance or splitting of the wood, and still beat him.

You could be finished much sooner if you employed a modern power tool in your building or repairing chores. The same illustration works for almost any power tool. They are rising in popularity and going down in relative price. We see a good tool as a small investment in our lives. The tools save our economic lives as well as increase our pride and self-esteem by saving expensive maintainance and repair costs.

Old tools, new tools, brand-new-concept tools; we love them all. Some of the really cool new ones are begging you to become familiar with their uses. For example, can you explain how a laser level works? And it works so well; no more picture frames hangning crookedly on the walls.

If you could use some new tools to replace your well-used, worn out, or broken tools, or you just want a new toy for yourself, we encourage you to browse around the internet. Hundreds of sites are waiting to help you to choose one. If you aren't sure what you want or need, ask questions so you will end up with old and new tools you can use and enjoy.