My check engine light came on a few days ago, and I didn't think much of it since it has been off and on even after I had it looked at. I was going to disconnect the battery just to get the light off and see if it came back on. I checked the oil while I was under the hood and it smelled like gas. When I wiped the oil off the dipstick it also seemed thinner than normal. Can you guys think of anything I can check or try to do before I bring it in? I've been making quite a few short trips lately, could that have something to do with it? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
I have a 97 SE with 100,000 miles.

First thought coming to mind is you need to change your oil. Short stop and go trips can get kinda rough on any automobile.

I have only put on 400-500 miles since I last changed the oil. I was going to try and change the oil and see if the same thing happened after the oil change. Maybe I'll still change it and see once what happens.
Thanks, and keep the suggestions coming.

Don't disconnect the battery. go to a shop or a friend that has a scan tool and see what the code is that the computer is giving you and then we can find out what is wrong with your car.

Well, I brought my car in to get the oil changed and hooked up to the scan tool because I don't have time or a scan tool. The mechanic said there was a leak in the evap system in the gas tank that set off the check engine light. He also said that the oil didn't seem too bad when they took it out. So maybe I got worried over nothing or maybe something is wrong. I guess I can use this as an excuse to go somewhere to make up for all the short trips I've been taking.

That means vapors are leaking out of the gas tank. Check to make sure the gas cap is on tight. If not that, then there is a tube from the gas tank to the charcoal canister that may be disconnected or cracked somewhere. Those are the likely culprits, but the leak could really be anywhere in the system.