Have some free time this weekend? Then, use it to go foraging for tree nuts. This time of year you should be able to find pecans, walnuts, chestnuts and gingkos.

• A Guide to Identifying and Harvesting Tree Nuts

Related Reading:

• Monthly Foraging Guide
• Foraging Recipes

Photo © Flickr user cesarastudillo

The economy is causing a lot of people to rethink their holiday budgets. Have you settled on a figure for this year? Tell us how much you plan to spend, and find out how much other readers will be spending.

Related Reading:

• Give Second-Hand Gifts without Looking Tacky
• Affordable Gifts for the Whole Family
• Jar Mixes

Name:

Sharon from Georgia

Forum Membername:

ed1claudia

Your Favorite Source for Bargains:

Thrift stores and the local auction house

Your Best Bargain of All Times:

My friend gave me her old - but still in great shape - bedroom suite. With updated linens, she didn't even recognize it when she came to visit. I also purchased a transferware plate at the auction house last week for $20, and it is worth at least $150. I have seen similar plates sell for $200-$300.

View the rest of Sharon's profile.

The rising unemployment numbers and daily reports of mass layoffs and foreclosures tell the tale of a tough economy, but they don't tell your tale.

• Have you lost your job or home?
• Did you take a pay cut just keep your job?
• Have you ditched every last creature comfort?
• Are you delaying necessary purchases or repairs?
• Have you brought your frugality to a new level?

We want to hear how the recession is affecting you. Head over to the forum and share your recession story.

Related Reading:

• Recession-Proof Your Finances
• How to Prepare for a Layoff