Guess what? Only a few more shopping days until Christmas! According to Jupiter Research, over 35 million shoppers will spend over 11 billion dollars on holiday shopping this year. Interestingly enough, online vendors won't be looking to give out steep discounts this year, instead targeting people who want to spend time doing other things than looking for that perfect gift item for the aunt they only see once a year. You know the one, the aunt with the moustache who's favorite thing to give during the Yule season is recycled fruitcake. However, in an effort to thwart internet pundits (and save you a metric ton of cash), I thought I'd offer some great ways to get some great gifts without emptying your pocket book. Click any of the vendor names to be brought to their site:

1. First Barter

This site is great! Free signup, and a free credit line of $1500 so that you can trade right away (read "in time for Christmas") The only fees that are involved are 3% when you make a purchase, or 3% when you sell an item. If you do the math here, that only $3.00 per $100 spent. Everything is offered here, from time shares in Florida to jewelry. I recently made a purchase for a Sapphire/Diamond ring for $1200. My out of pocket expense? $36 for the ring and $15 for the insured shipping.

2. Bidz Auctions

Normally, for auctions I'd put up E-Bay, but this one just came along and stole my heart. $1 no reserve auctions, five minute auctions, and conventional auctions all in one spot. I'd just recently purchaced a $400 14k gold, ruby, and opal pendant for $26, along with some other items. Great Stuff, all guaranteed.

Click here3. CatalogCity

Millions of products, thousands of catalogs, one shopping cart. Big names like Land's End, Eddie Bauer, products from Autos to Videos. Great Stuff for great prices.

4. OneShare

What do you get the person who has everything? How's about their own company? Or at least one share of stock for their favorite company in its own frame. Harley Davidson, Walt Disney, Apple Computers, Coke, and McDonald's are amongst the most popular, and they have programs for kids and collectors alike.

5. Clubs of America

No...not golf clubs. This is the end-all of the "of the month" clubs, with Cigars, Chocolates, Beers, Coffees, Pizzas, Flowers, Fresh Fruit, and Wine of the month clubs. Too bad they don't have a fruitcake of the month club. That would go a long way to getting back at Auntie (you know, the one with the moustache and the never ending supply of cheek pinches).

At any rate, I'm sure these sites will help you during the rush and bustle of the holiday season.Please visit The Idiot's Shopping Mall Yes, its run by yours truly. Happy shopping and please place your comments on these sites, or one you've discoved in THE FORUM