I used to do some stock market trading but had since slowed down. I'm more into short-term CD's now. Since you plan to take it out in 5-6 months, I suggest opening up a 26 week CD account so you can withdraw it after 6 months. The return is not as generous compared to stock but CD's are less risky. You can also contact your bank and setup a ladder account which works this way:
http://www.consumerismcommentary.com...sit-cd-ladder/
The info in the link is what I used a few years ago when I set up my ladder certificates.
Hope this helps.