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Thirteen years ago, Tickle Me Elmo was the rage of the Christmas season; causing "Elmo-mania" across the states. Cabbage Patch Kids were the hot commodity further years back, leading up to the release of popular gaming systems and fads that now seem like ancient history. This season it seems some companies have taken the route of cutesy pet or resurrected Furby, with a robotic hamster being the projected craze.

The Zhu Zhu Pets Hamsters, manufactured by Cepia LLC and listed on the Toys "R" Us 2009 Hot Holiday Toy List, are said to each have their "own unique personality and whimsical sounds," according to the Toys "R" Us description. The furry guys, quickly selling out in stores, ring in at $9.99 and can apparently wiggle, slide, and crawl up arms.

Other well-known brands like Fisher-Price, Sony, and Nintendo still hold multiple spots on "R" Us's toy list, along with Mattel. Mattel put a twist on their old classic with the mostly sold-out Barbie Fashion Fever Fashionista Doll, selling for $11.99. And yes, after thirteen years Elmo is still on the list.

But what can college students or adults buy for each other this holiday season, especially on a tight budget? "One time I made my girlfriend a shadowbox collage. I found the shadowbox in the color she liked, put in some pictures of us together, and added ticket stubs from movies and concerts we had gone to," said second-year student Ross Anderson, "Otherwise, TJ Maxx and Marshalls are good stores." Shelby Horak, first-year student, said, "I have no money right now, so I'm drawing pictures of things I want to get my siblings and putting them in gift bags under the tree. I'll get them when I have the money."

Nancy Moeller's family has taken a fun approach on holiday gift shopping as well. "We don't stress out, we all go to Wal-Mart together and spend five or ten dollars. We've done silly things like cereal and toilet paper," said Moeller, "Someone else I know has bought long johns for everyone in her family and tie-dyed them different colors."

Even for those who are still kids at heart, when we reach adulthood, practical gifts can be the most useful. Gift cards for things needed in everyday life, from a grocery store or gas station, are almost guaranteed to be appreciated. "Volunteering your time can be a great gift, like offering help to clean out the leaves in the gutters. I wish my kids would have done that!" said English instructor Jan LaVille.

Some people make donations or plant trees in memory of loved ones that have passed away, but why not do this as a gift while they're still around to enjoy it? There are also organizations that allow donations, such as school supplies, to be sent overseas to people that need them.

Although re-gifting seems like an easy escape, a more honest approach could be cooking a meal, baking holiday treats, or even cleaning someone's car. Simple favors that can make someone's life easier are priceless, no batteries included.

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