Being Unique Without Going Broke

Another inexpensive gift is the gift of literature. Borders, 713-782-6066, always has tremendous deals on everything from new releases to timeless classics. Need some expert advice on what to get that finicky reader? Check out "Rose's Picks" and you can't go wrong. She has her finger on the pulse of the world of literature so you don't have to. There are also many other bookstores around town. Waldenbooks, 713-951-0041, located in-side The Park Shops in downtown, Bookstop, 713-529-2345, Barnes & Noble, 713-629-8828, and Quarter Price Books, 713-520-5009, on South Shepherd, also have fantastic deals just waiting to be found.

Don't forget to pamper your pet during the holidays. Carlisle's Groom and Board, 713-521-2273, is a full service grooming and pet salon. Indulge Fido with a shave, a haircut and a pedicure. Also, pet owners that don't want to leave Fido at home alone while traveling during the holidays can board their furry friend at Carlisle's. Boarding ranges from $13 to $15 per day and daycare is only $5 to $7 per day. Carlisle's Groom and Board is located at 423 Southwest Freeway.

Loft & Home Essentials, 713-522-5638, is a specialty candle, apothecary and home accessory store located in historic Mon-trose. They feature a large selection of unique gifts as well as wonderful fragrant candles. If you're looking for pretty things for the home, then this is your place.

And for the ladies, a smoking idea would be the Houston Firefighters 2002 Calendar. Always a hot item during the holidays, the proceeds from the calendar benefit the Houston Firefighters Burned and Crippled Children's Fund. The calendar is $15 plus $2 shipping and can be ordered on-line at www.firefighterscalendar.org. But be warned, ladies, looking at these men will do very little to extinguish your flames of passion. It'll take a cool hand to handle something this hot!