How to pamper yourself in tough times

The recent stock market troubles and President Bush's bail out plan has many has everyone wondering what's next for our economy. Though times are uncertain, you can still find inexpensive ways to pamper.

Here are tips on two things women love to do, get their hair and nails done. Try these at home and you'll see that anyone can take good care of yourself even when times are tight.

1. Visit your local cosmetology school. Students get credit for doing your hair and are well supervised. My favorite? Aveda of course! Clients get their hair shampooed and styled, while you sipping Aveda's signature tea. You also receive a complimentary hand, neck or head massage all for around $14. Not bad! See my latest hair cut above.

2.Do your own nails. Here's how:

*Use an all natural sugar scrub like You Go Girl's, or make you own using any oil and sugar which is less abrasive. Add a few drops of your favorite perfume or body splash and there you have it! Salt work wonder on those tired feet too.

*Gently file your nails to your desired shape.

*Use any lotion that has vitamin E in it and rub it all over your hands. Be sure to rub it right into your nails and the cuticle bed, as this will help keep them strong and healthy. Remove lotion from nails with a little nail polish remover.

*Then simply buff the tops of the nails until they are smooth and shiny.

*Next, apply two coats of your favorite color. Allow to dry and finish with a clear top coat.simply buff the tops of the nails until they are smooth and shiny. Voila!