Kimberly Palmer, senior editor for U.S. News & World Report, writes about how to stay on top in the consumer world by saving money, avoiding scams, managing debt, and otherwise staying sane. She tries to incorporate these techniques into her own life, but often finds herself splurging on lattes, 19th-century novels, and kitchen-related gadgetry. Share with her your own money issues by sending questions to alphaconsumer@usnews.com.