Buying health insurance can be tricky business, but knowing the ropes can make it a bit more bearable.

Christmas is getting closer, but there’s still time to pick up some great gifts for your friends and family. After graduation, it can be tough to make ends meet during December and January because gifts are so expensive. Here’s a shopping guide for great gifts that are affordable. (Picture via krisdecurtis at http://flickr.com/photos/krisdecurtis/313881077/.)

Did you know that CFL bulbs can help you save 15% or more on your electric bill every month? CFL bulbs are more expensive, but the price is more than worth it. CFL bulbs aren’t just good for the environment; they can also save you hundreds of dollars on your light bill every year. After graduation, saving money is important, and so is going green. CFLs combine the two - perfect!

I know…dinner with the girlfriend’s parents is NOT your idea of a fun Saturday night. Everyone has to do it at some point, though, and doing what your significant other wants you to do, even when you don’t want to do it, is sometimes the best way to show that you care. Here’s your guide to surviving that parental meal…and, for that matter, how to survive all the un-fun stuff your girlfriend wants you to do! (Picture credit: http://flickr.com/photos/xenithorg/)

During college, your dining out experiences may have been limited to Papa John’s and Burger King, and who can blame you? Dinging out is hella ‘spensive. Sure, we all splurged occasionally for a nice dinner with a significant other, but in general, a college budget doesn’t allow five-star dining often. Of course, your budget probably hasn’t changed all that much, but your tastes probably have. You don’t have a cafeteria anymore for “slightly-better-than-fast-food” meals. Your girlfriend or boyfriend is probably asking for more serious dates. Your work colleagues may want …