As someone who can barely calculate a tip, I don't have much to add to the conversation about our tanking economy. But I would like to share one little piece of wisdom I picked up from my favorite social economists: you can't buy me love. Corny but true. Don't believe me? Try one of my five patented Romance Enhancers -- if you don't think they're more effective than a gift card, I'll send you a full refund.

There are a lot of ways to subtly let a guy know you're into him, like maintaining eye contact, playing with your hair, and smiling a lot. But the only one that sends shivers down my spine is when a girl touches my arm during conversation. It always surprises me, and it's always great.

OK, this might not be free depending on your cell phone plan, but it's still a great value. Nothing breaks the monotony of a long workday like a flirty note from someone special, and unless his job is super-intense he'll have plenty of time to daydream about you.

Dating news flash: Guys like to show off for you. So if your dude could use an ego boost, there's nothing like letting him feel like an expert. Ask him about fishing, the 1983 Chicago White Sox, or the mating habits of the Guyanese Bullfinches -- whatever he's into. Just remember to nod frequently and look really interested.

Telling a guy he's funny, handsome, or smart is always appreciated, but the really meaningful compliments are the ones that reveal how well you know him. Something like "I love the way your face scrunches up when you're doing the crossword puzzle" or "You have the most manly calves I've ever seen."

One of the best things about having a girlfriend is reminiscing about what you thought about each other in the beginning of your relationship. Reliving all of the uncertainty and anxiety is strangely exhilarating. I can't think of a better anniversary present than a sanctioned peek into the documented thoughts of someone I care about.

Give him a free pass to go out with his friends alone.