Christmas is approaching quickly and you're scrambling to buy the perfect gift(s) for that special someone(s). This year will it be jewelry? Fancy perfumes? A designer sweater? A new appliance? Better yet a new car? Decisions, decisions.

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Why not give a true expression this year? All of the things you can buy will likely go unappreciated with time so why not make it count? This year I believe everyone should support the Occupy movement and the idea of non-consumerism. This is in fact the only way to satisfy all parties ;-) You get to keep extra poker chips and spend on something more important. Foreign imports and independence will decrease. Government will be shocked by such bravery. The richer will be a little less richer and everyone will learn a valuable lesson: We the people...

On Thanksgiving day, I taught my nieces the meaning of the Occupy movement. They are 9 and 10 and old enough to understand the social injustices of the 99%. Before showing up on Xmas with a homemade gift I had to explain there was a bigger reason behind Titi Lou not coming home with a dozen new toys for them. In the end the girls appreciated me being part of a bigger fight and they too wanted to help. We agreed that no matter what I got them I would not be spending money on getting it but that they would love it. How difficult could it be, right? I make jewelry (sprinkleofglitter.com) so there's an option. I have dozens of unused nail polishes sitting in a box right now. I've just inherited quite a few children's books. I probably have too many stuffed animals as it is. I am great in Photoshop and these kids still love coloring so I smell a coloring book or crossword puzzle book. For the adults I had already purchased some things but they all came from a thrift store. My favorite chain is Unique right now. Great finds!

So, this year, I am giving my wallet a break and sending a message to the higher ups and teaching my family the meaning of being part of something bigger. I encourage you all to do the same. Either way enjoy your Christmas and try to get back to what it's really all about: family.

What’s up with these gas prices? Up and down, then back up then down! If you drive then I am sure you’re just as sick of them as I am. If you’d like to save at the pump but aren’t really sure how then let us share with you some ways:

1. Find out who’s offering gas at the cheapest price in your area (form below).

2. Avoid putting tons of junk in your car; the heavier your car is the more gas it needs to get you and your junk around.

3. Use cruise control to help maintain a constant speed.

4. Do the speed limit. Driving over 65 actually uses a lot more gas than you think!

5. Get GasBuddy on your mobile device.

6. Stop breaking! You know who you are…foot always on the break for no reason. Well not only are you annoying drivers but your killing gas too!

Here are some others from GasBuddy! I hope you saved a buck or two!

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