My favorite Internet addictions

The Internet gives users the opportunity to easily placate any addiction from their comfort of their homes.

For me, the big three Internet addictions are keeping in with friends, keeping informed about my favorite TV shows and, of course, keeping up-to-date with the latest fashion trends.

Facebook

After high school (and especially after college) my friends and I all scattered from our home town just outside Philadelphia. Although some of us didn't get very far (I just moved to another side of the city), two of my friends now call the UK home.

While we were fortunate to all meet up again this past Christmas, we use Facebook to keep everyone apprised of our adventures the rest of the year.

TV Guide

This Web site has virtually all the features of its paper version without the cost or carbon footprint. And since stations can change their programming last minute for breaking news, the site is more accurate than the printed copies.

There are also links to any episode you may have missed that week.

Rue la la

A friend turned me on to this Web site last year. The site sells leftovers from top designers on sale -- most for more than half off the retail price. It's like a high-end flea market; you're never quite sure what's available.

I will admit, though, that half off a Coach bag is still out of my price range. So I use the site for virtual window shopping when I can't get to the King of Prussia mall.

Yes, the Internet can satisfy all your latest addictions (and even create a few more -- every try the free games available at Yahoo!), just remember to surf carefully. Because wipe outs can happen without any waves.

Katie Pasek is the author of "Sure-foot Sam in Jeopardy" available from Echelon Press and Junior's New Home available from Lulu.com. For more information please visit www.katiepasek.com.