Investments- question?

I have around 26000 sitting in a money market earning 1.5% interest. How can I put part of that sum to work? My risk tolerance is moderate high and I won't need the money for say, 5 years. I am looking for a bigger return than what I have now. I have an IRA with Vanguard that I can contribute to (5000 for 2009) or shall I invest elsewhere? Thanks!

There are many things that you can do but based on your explained situation I would dollar cost average into a mutual fund or even an ETF. That way you're not exposing yourself to too much market risk at any one time. I'd also consider getting yourself a reputable financial adviser if you're asking for people's opinion on a site like this. Your money is too valuable to get random opinions without really knowing your specific financial needs, goals and overall situation.

Diversify across asset classes, such as a commodity fund (10%), a currency fund such as FOREX (yes, that's the symbol), some high yield bonds, REITS, emerging markets stock, and so on.

I would wait until my bank opens and go in for an appointment, but set up the appointment on line during bank closed hours.