Consumers share credit card horror stories
Dear Readers: Remember the end of the horror film "Carrie," when that scary hand comes shooting up out of the grave?

Desperately seeking Christmas tree
Dear Fixer: Last Dec. 20, 2008, I purchased a pre-lit Christmas tree at Target on sale for $188.99 plus tax. It was the last tree of this kind (slim pickings five days before Christmas).

Watch out for those gift cards with strings
Dear Fixer: My 10-year-old son got a $50 Visa gift card from a family member for his birthday in April 2008. Rather than spend it right away, he decided to "save it for something really cool." I was proud. I had always encouraged him to be wise with his money.

Check charges quickly reach $693
D ear Fixer: I have a $700 problem. I bounced a check -- yep, I did, and I take responsibility for it.