12/8/09

If you think handmade gifts or crafts are "grandma" cozies and doilies, think again. Etsy is an online community of crafters who sell their wares to anyone who wants to buy them. Here you can find gorgeous hand-blocked gift wrap, perfectly crafted paper flowers, gorgeous jewelry and much, much more. For anyone who loves one-of-a-kind gifts -- not run-of-the-mill store-bought stuff -- this is a great place to find the perfect present while supporting artists and craftsmen at the same time.

12/7/09

American Express card members can use their Membership Rewards points to help more than 1,000,000 registered nonprofit charities. Simply redeem the points online at amex.justgive.org and search for your preferred charity. Redeem your points like a cash donation and help a number of nonprofit groups with just the click of a mouse.

12/6/09

Your purse may actually be a breeding ground of harmful germs and bacteria. If you place your purse on the floor in bathrooms, subways or buses, don't place it on the kitchen counter when you get home. A dirty purse may cross-contaminate the countertop and everything on it, including your supper. Instead, wipe off the bottom with a pre-moistened towelette or, better yet, keep it off the floor altogether.