Abstract: The present invention is direct to an item holding device having a container body and a flexible tail and method of use. The flexible tail, which is repositionable when sufficient force is applied, yet allows the invention to be reasonably fixed once configured, allows a user to attach the item holding device in locations unsuitable for traditional fastening mechanisms. The flexible tail facilitates the positioning of the item holding device within convenient reach of the user by enabling the user to wrap the flexible tail around a static structure or configure it to form a support stand for placement upon a surface. The flexible nature of the tail allows the tail to snugly conform to the shape of the attachment point, keeping the item holding device securely in place.

Abstract: A container lid having flaps along its perimeter. The flaps are hingedly attached to the lid and have elastic coupling therebetween. When at least one of the flaps placed in an upward position, the rest of the flaps are urged upward by the elastic coupling, and thus form a bounded tray on top of the container. When at least one flap is placed in a downward position, the elastic coupling urges the rest of the flaps downward, forming a cover with improved sealing for the container.

Abstract: A hand-held drinking apparatus including a vessel having an open end and a closed end, a handle associated with the vessel and extending outwardly therefrom, and an object, such as a bead, mounted for rotation on the vessel or the handle.

Abstract: A hand-held drinking apparatus including a vessel having an open end and a closed end, a handle associated with the vessel and extending outwardly therefrom, and an object, such as a bead, mounted for rotation on the vessel or the handle.

Abstract: A shoulder strap pad is disclosed which is superior to prior pads or coverings because it takes advantage of the anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the user's shoulder to provide anatomically correct support for carrying straps. This strap pad fits the shape of the shoulder, effectively raising the shoulder's profile so that there is no slope down which the strap may slide. This is accomplished by shaping the cushioning pad into a wedge or triangular shape. The strap is carried on top of this wedge and pushes down but cannot slide out. Prior pads and cushions have limited themselves to increasing the friction between strap and shoulder (or garment thereon). This frictional approach may also be used in combination with the instant invention to further prevent slipping. By making the wedge out of a cushion (whether of resilient synthetic or natural foam or of a filled cushion-like material), the carrying burden is further reduced.