Gift-giving season. Oh joy. Since I really have the chunk of change for that. The idea has really stressed me out this year for some reason. Maybe because the economy blows. Maybe because I can no longer make homemade felt cards and snow globes out of baby food jars and in a way that people will find acceptable. My idea for holidays on the cheap: gag gifts! I figure the effort of matching an affordable item with people's personalities so they think I deeply care is unrealistic this year. My hope is that people will laugh and get a kick out of these items, thus taking their mind off the fact that I half-assed the whole thing. If you are fortunate enough to have a Ricky's near you, go there. Find a magnet with an ironic phrase. Buy unrealistic beauty items such as mustache wax and body jewels. Or find some clever underwear with phrases that reference homosexuality or feminism. Another option: Duane Reade grab bag. Buy multiple pharmaceutical and drug store items. My...

It is a perilous time to be a traveler....especially one with little cash. From fuel costs to the down-sizing of airlines, it has become nearly impossible to budget a cheapie retreat. Yet alternative notions of travel can help you cut costs, while still allowing you to plan an adventure. Some ideas for travel on the cheap: 1. Stay at a Hostel. Hotels and even Motels can suck you dry of funds. Be like the Euro Trash: stay somewhere cheap, so you have more cash for going out...it's not like you're going to sleep that much anyway. Check out: http://www.hostels.com/ 2. Consider a "staycation." Instead of traveling long distances to exotic lands, check out the wonders in your very own backyard. Chances are, you haven't really felt what it's like to be a tourist in your home town. Some ideas: -Visit a local hotel and peruse the tourist center pamphlets (often located by the lobby restrooms). You will discover national parks, hidden flea markets, community events and gems that...