Stocking stuffers on a college budget

Remember back in kindergarten, when all that we needed to cover everyone on the Christmas list was some elbow macaroni and glue? Those were the good old days.

Now, however, gift giving requires a little more thought, planning and, yes -- money. While some thoughtful presents don't cost anything at all -- a picnic on the beach or a romantic hike, for example -- those all require time, creativity and, well ... thought.

For the rest, here's a list of fun, inexpensive gift ideas tailored specifically to college appetites.

GIFT CERTIFICATES -- Yes, it's a cop-out, but it's a beautiful cop-out. Other than money, gift certificates are the only present that always fits, never needs to be returned and satisfies pretty much everyone. The only downside: Your friends know exactly how much you spent on them.

BOOKS - For the English major on the list, a good book is always a safe bet. Not sure what book to get? Just pick a favorite novel and say, "I know if I enjoyed it, you will too." If that doesn't work, try Dave Barry's Guide to Guys (a hilarious must for men and women alike), Dan Simmons' Hyperion (the greatest science-fiction ever) or Christopher Moore's Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Friend (in keeping with the holiday spirit and hilarious).

POSTERS -- What college dorm room couldn't use a few more posters? Cheap and easily accessible via the Ave. or sites like Allposters.com, wall art is an easy way to personalize gifts. Just think of the recipient's favorite band, movie, artist or celebrity.

FOOD -- To be a college student is to be eternally hungry. Whether it's a free meal at a favorite restaurant or a bag of favorite munchies, edible gifts come with the added bonus of being easily shareable ... and who better to share with than the person who just handed it to them? Score.

ALCOHOL -- For the partier who has everything, why not take the fifth? Get unusual and festive with things like Goldschlager's, or keep it practical with a big jug of tequila - either way, alcohol is almost always appreciated by those of age.

LINGERIE -- Recipe for a merry Christmas: Buy sexy underwear. Put on and remove in presence of significant other. Repeat. Lingerie --- the gift that keeps on giving.

VIBRATOR -- What should you get that overstressed female friend? Why, a vibrator, of course. Guaranteed to alleviate finals anxiety and put a damper on "why don't I have a boyfriend?" complaints. For added fun, wrap and switch to the highest setting just before handing it to the recipient in a public place.

A LOBSTER - For those situations when a standard gift just won't do. Maybe your lease won't let a roommate get that kitten she wants, but it never said anything about a live lobster in a bucket! With just a walk to the grocery store, anyone can bestow endless hours of pinching crustacean joy. Name it, play with it and when you get bored ... bust out the butter.