Bartering booms during economic tough times - USATODAY.com

Bartering booms during economic tough times - USATODAY.com: "Even though Ron Giesler, 42, lost his job wiring oil rigs three weeks ago, the Seabrook, Texas, resident is still working as an electrician. He's just getting paid in trade: laptops, computer parts and other used goods.

When Christine Rietsch, 41, of Fridley, Minn., had her hours cut, she got creative so her two children could have a merry Christmas. She drew a portrait of a man's wife and son and received the Guitar Hero video game in return."