This recession is taking a toll on all of us. In the spirit of keeping ourselves financially fit, I am offering up some tips on how to save money.

Here's some tips on how to save money in this current recession. Some are common sense and others thing we don't think too much about. Learn to stretch your dollar so you can save.

When you go shopping, do you pay attention to the direction you travel in the store? You should. There is a bit of a science in it all and Sorenson Associates has an explanation for your shopping behavior.

According to a November 2008 poll by Spectrem Group of 750 households with over $1 million in net worth (excluding house), last year saw a 30% drop in their asset values. Twenty percent of the respondents lost more than 40%.

Sitting down on a bench yesterday in one of California's biggest shopping malls, I overheard a young Asian woman from abroad ask another Asian woman "Why Don't American's Save?" It caught my interest because it is well known that Asian countries save more than here in America.

As California's economic condition continues to grow worse and cash due to run out by February 2009, state legislators are scrambling to come up with a $18 billion package that would increase taxes on personal income, sales, and gasoline. The state is also looking to reduce spending on programs for the poor and education.

The clock is ticking. On January 10, 2009, the budget must be submitted by Governor Schwarzenegger. Will this go without pain to the taxpayer?

Christmas season is underway. Money may be tight due to the ongoing financial crisis but Santa will still be delivering presents. Here are ten Christmas gift ideas for 2008 that will sure to please everyone.

ShopperTrak, a Chicago research firm said Black Friday 2008 sales rose 3% over last year. The firm tracks retail sales at over 50,000 stores across the country. As stores were jammed with people looking for bargains, foot traffic is expected to decline nearly 10% due to the souring economy and rising unemployment rate. My own off-the-cuff research felt different, however.