The home improvement that will put your room redesign over the top

You repainted, replaced all the furniture and just finished recarpeting that room that needed a little design TLC. Still looking for the final touch to add drama to your room's transformation? Read More

Shop sustainable: How to know which products are environmentally friendly

Spring is often considered a time for renewal and change. When planning your home spring cleaning and design changes, consider which products and furniture you own that are sustainable. This is an opportunity to make modifications that will not only bring a new energy to your life but environmental benefits, too. Read More

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine

Eating right and exercising are the two most important elements of a healthy lifestyle. We hear it time and again that these simple principles hold more power than the latest fad diet, and for those who heed the advice, the proof is in the results. However, it's not always easy to figure out what's really good for you in the process of building - or maintaining - a healthy body. Read More

How to make sure your indoor air is healthy

As soon as the temperatures warm up, you open up the doors and windows and let the "fresh" air in. Many people go on a cleaning spree, vacuuming, dusting and getting rid of all the dust bunnies hiding under furniture. With a fresh, clean house, you assume you'll be breathing much easier. Think again. Here's what every homeowner should know. Read More

Trend alert: The future of in-store shopping goes high tech

Gone are the days of loading the station wagon and heading to the local mall to spend the entire day getting everything the family needs. Today, American shoppers are savvy and smart. They know exactly what they want and how they'll get it. As a result of this fast-paced shopping evolution, the retail environment is transforming, too. The next time you visit your favorite store, don't be surprised if you see high-tech innovations that enhance your experience and make shopping easier than ever before. Read More

The secret to successful dating: Know yourself first

Even if you dated through high school and college, entering the dating world as a single, independent adult can be daunting. When it comes to dating, knowing who you are and what you have to offer another person is every bit as important as knowing what you want. Here are some tips for learning about yourself, and how to parlay that self-knowledge into positive dating experiences. Read More

Identity theft sweep brings attention to tax season security concerns

Tax time has a reputation for being almost universally stressful. As the looming April deadline closes in, Americans are concerned with getting their taxes done correctly and on time. As financial information starts to fly between individuals, tax preparers and the IRS, concerns about personal security are rising. Read More

Your money: Last-minute tax tips

Are you among the millions of Americans who scramble every year to meet Uncle Sam's income tax filing deadline? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that one-third of Americans wait until the last minute to file their personal income tax returns (for 2011 income tax returns, the deadline has been extended to April 17). If you count yourself among that group, it's important to realize the costs could be adding up - from missing important deductions that could affect the amount of your refund to incurring penalties from the IRS for not filing on time. Read More

New job skills can increase your chances of being hired

Many Americans are involved in prolonged job searches these days. With unemployment still high, competition among job seekers can be daunting. This is a good time to evaluate your viability in the job market, beginning with an assessment of your skills. Read More

Keeping informed and educated about your health

New program helps returning military members bridge the gap between battlefield and backyard

After 10 years of serving around the world in armed conflicts, members of the armed forces are returning home to families, civilian jobs and a life very different from the constant state of readiness they experienced overseas. While most military members and their families will transition easily, others may need some assistance. A new program has been developed to foster positive reconnections between family members and help service members reintegrate into civilian life. Read More

Professional grilling tips for the perfect backyard barbecue

Grilling season has arrived. The unique flavors of sizzling meat on a hot grill are loved by Americans young and old. Whether you're an enthusiastic foodie or a simple family chef, it's time to get outside and perfect the art of the barbecue. If you're new to grilling, it's easy to make some wrong turns. No one wants to end up with dried out chicken, burnt steak or flavorless ribs. When you're cooking, keep in mind a few tips from the pros. Read More

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment

Allergens lurk inside and outside your home, causing more than 40 million Americans with allergies to cough, sneeze and have itchy eyes all year long, especially in springtime. And, for 25 million Americans with asthma it can be even more problematic. You'd assume cleaning your home would help reduce these allergy triggers, but if you're not cleaning the right way, you could actually be making the problem worse. Read More

Keeping on top of your child's asthma care during allergy season

Why tax time is the perfect time to plan for retirement

Every year, tax time serves as a reminder of financial progress. Before the big April deadline rolls around, most of us spend time gathering documents, reviewing accounts and meeting with financial advisors, and all of that effort is centered around getting a firm grasp on what you earn, save and invest. What many don't realize is that tax time preparation can be beneficial for more than one reason. Consider this: Many of the same documents, papers and files you go through to complete your taxes are the same documents you need for assessing your retirement preparedness. Read More

Nip seasonal allergies in the bud

When everything comes up roses, so do spring allergies. Forty million Americans suffer from outdoor and indoor allergies in the United States, making it one of the country's most common, yet overlooked health conditions. In fact, allergies are the fifth-leading chronic disease in the U.S. for all ages. Read More

Tips for inspiring young readers

It's never too early - or too late - to help your child discover the joy of reading. In fact, reading aloud to your child helps build important vocabulary and language skills that last a lifetime. Despite the considerable evidence of a relationship between reading regularly to a child and that child's later reading development, six out of 10 babies and five out of 10 toddlers are not read to regularly by parents or family members. Read More

Meet your perfect (money) match

Set the scene - and the table - for a perfect summer party

Simply put, summer is entertaining season. Patio parties come together at the last minute and long-planned events fill up the calendar months in advance. But no matter whether you're having an impromptu gathering or an invitation-only celebration, focusing on the flavors and sensory delights of summer will make your party a success, without demanding too much of your time. Read More

The secret to a successful family vacation? Teamwork

When it comes to planning your family's vacation, you can find a lot of value in that old saying "teamwork divides the task and doubles the success." Divvying up planning responsibilities helps ensure that one member of the family is not overwhelmed with tasks, and that everyone is excited about and invested in the trip. Read More

You can help provide comfort to hospitalized children and families

Each year in the United States, millions of American children are hospitalized and must face the challenges of overcoming illness while staying in unfamiliar hospital environments. The physical and emotional toll can be extensive for children whose illnesses require a long hospitalization, as well as for their families whose only wish is for their child to be healthy. You can bring comfort to these families during difficult times. Here are some ideas for how you can make a difference. Read More

Five tips for creating a stadium-style lawn in your own backyard

Many homeowners think a professional-looking lawn requires a stringent water and fertilizer regime. While both water and fertilizer play their part, neither is the stand-alone key to a perfect lawn. These five tips offer homeowners simple solutions to achieving a great yard. Read More

Let your hobby guide you to your perfect travel destination

With so many choices in travel destinations, sometimes it's best to plan a vacation around your passion. Read More

What everyone needs to know about estate planning, regardless of income

There's a common misconception among the American public that estate planning is only the domain of the elderly or the very wealthy. However, that's far from the truth. The fact is estate planning is something that can be done by people of any income level, and should be considered by everyone. Read More

Elevate the traditional wedding with contemporary flair

If long-standing wedding traditions seem a little confining and out of date for your modern nuptial celebration, you're not alone. Lifestyles are trending toward practical and tasteful simplification. An easy-going elegance and a balance of formality and fun is now the norm. So you might ask, "How can creative couples introduce more contemporary options to their celebrations yet still craft a memorable, classy wedding?" Read More

Home decor evolution: Trends anyone can try for an instant update

Gone are the days when a stylish home and a busy family have to be mutually exclusive. Home decorating is hotter than ever and everyone is getting in on the trend. With an ever-increasing focus on DIY design projects, resources such as shelter magazines, design blogs, TV shows and online home decor retailers are making high design accessible to any homeowner. If your budget doesn't include hiring an interior decorator to update your decor, a few tips from the experts will go a long way. Read More

Celebrity status not required: Four simple tips to get boating

Flipping through a celebrity magazine, it's easy to spot stars on exotic getaways, enjoying the water aboard a megayacht. But, boating isn't just for the rich and famous - you don't have to be a millionaire to get out on the water. Read More

Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort

Gardening is very healthy, both physically and mentally. In addition to providing exercise, gardening delivers health benefits in the fresh foods you eat and in the calming presence of flowers in your environment. Here are some tips to get the most out of gardening's health benefits. Read More

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

Now, while the winter is still around, is the best time for homeowners to get a jump start on planning and prepping for their spring and summer home and garden projects; so when the weather really does warm up, it takes little effort to get the projects underway. In addition to fine-tuning home improvement and gardening plans, it is also a good idea to make certain the required tools are in tip-top shape, so the projects are not delayed. Read More

Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women

While heart disease continues to receive a lot of attention, certain myths surrounding the disease persist. A couple of the most common myths are that heart disease is more common in men than women, and that the first signs of a heart attack are the same for both men and women. Read More

Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer

Windows do a lot more than just let the light in and keep the weather out. They're both key elements in your home's overall design and in the unique look of each individual room. If you're redecorating for warm weather, updating your window treatments is a great, cost-effective way to completely change the look of a space. Read More

Five lighting tips to make your everyday photos shine

Plumbing pro tells how to install an extra bath with less cost, noise and mess

So, you've finally decided to take the plunge and add that much-needed extra bathroom. Smart idea! According to the 2011-2012 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report, an added bath will return more than 50 percent of your investment at resale. So what should you do to make sure your money is well spent? Read More

Tips for a smooth military transition

Some 39,000 U.S. troops will be headed home from Iraq by year's end. Many will begin the difficult process of transitioning out of military life - including starting a second career. Some cities offer military veterans better employment opportunities than others. Read More

Translating a remodeling dream into reality

You've made the decision to remodel your home. The budget range and project scope have been set. You've even preemptively told your sister-in-law she'll need to host Christmas (alright, that was before you knew you were going to remodel). Now what? Read More

Spring into home improvement with weekend wonder projects

Sprucing up your home for spring doesn't have to mean spending huge amounts of time and money. In fact, there are many projects that you can complete in a weekend that will improve the look and feel of your home. With a little guidance and the right tools, you can easily get your home in top shape by Monday morning. Read More

Vacations are back: Tips for making a trip affordable and simple to plan

Ask anyone within five feet of you whether they'd like to take a vacation, and you can bet every answer would be "yes." But wanting to and doing are two very different things. People's hectic schedules built on jobs, home and family life, and other social obligations, are often the cause of the desire to travel, but also the roadblock. Or, at least, the perceived roadblock. Read More

National park vacations on the rise

Considered "America's best idea," national parks provide travelers undisturbed views of natural wonder as far as the eye can see and provide a unique backyard oasis where postcard views meet real, life-altering experiences. All this unrivaled beauty, when combined with opportunities for exploration and easy accessibility, makes the national park system a popular vacation choice for today's travelers. Read More

Planning spring home improvements? How to find the right contractor

You've got a list of spring home improvements to do, a vision for getting them done, and you even have a budget. Now all you need is someone to do the work; it's time to hire a contractor. Yet even the best-laid home improvement plans can go awry if you hire the wrong person or company to do the job. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can help ensure you choose the right contractor. Read More

Effortless ways to be more eco-friendly

Perhaps the most common misconception about going "green" is that it takes a lot of effort. On the contrary, as environmental awareness grows, it's now easier than ever before to bring an element of eco-friendliness to virtually every aspect of your life. Read More

The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk

It's 3:30 a.m. and you've just rolled over in bed for what seems like the 500th time. As you watch the minutes on the clock tick by, all you can think about is how tired you are going to be tomorrow. While the cause of your insomnia may vary night to night, the outcome is still the same: you're not asleep. You're also not alone. Read More

Secrets of safe sleep: What parents need to know before putting baby to bed

When a baby arrives in your home, the world changes. Even after the months of preparation and planning for the little one's arrival, the love a parent feels is stronger than could have been imagined - and so is the protective instinct. Giving your baby the finest of everything and keeping her safe are the top priorities for parents, but the gap between what seems like the right thing to do and what will actually be best for your child can be wide. Read More

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly

Who's responsible for keeping infants safe from gear-related injury? Is it gear-makers, who must meet stringent manufacturing codes, perform strict mandatory government safety testing, and submit to oversight by safety-focused government agencies? Or are parents responsible? The answer, experts agree, is: both. Read More

The garage: a guy's refuge

The traditional "guy" - broadly defined as a man's man who can take down a tree or change his own oil - faces extinction from threats ranging from reality television to couples' baby showers. Garages are a guy's refuge from these kinds of enemies. The condition of a guy's garage reflects his personality as much as the truck he might park there. The only thing worse than a dull or uninspired garage is a messy one. Read More

Going green has never been more high tech

Think going green will cost too much or take too much time? You might be surprised at how much time, energy and money you can save by making a few changes in your home to make it more energy efficient. And don't worry that it will be too much work because some new high tech tools are making it easier than ever. Read More

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better quick. Read More

Disability: What you don't know can hurt you

The average adult rushes off each weekday morning to work or school, focused on the busy day ahead. No one ever thinks that one day, suddenly, his or her life will be changed forever by a sudden, unexpected disability. Read More

Want to get 200K miles out of your car? Tips to help

Nationwide diabetes education events create awareness, promote healthy living

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. It can also be overwhelming caring for someone with diabetes. Read More

You can help: What to do if you suspect a child is being mistreated or abused

It's a too-common scenario: you see a parent with a toddler at the store. The toddler misbehaves and, suddenly, the parent flies into a rage and screams at the child. The reaction only causes the child to cry louder, which leads to even more yelling by the parent. What can you do? Without knowing any of the family's history or its struggles, is it OK to step in at all? Read More

Enjoy outdoor activities while keeping ticks and mosquitos away

While warmer weather brings many opportunities to enjoy outdoor living spaces, it also ushers in unwanted pests like ticks and mosquitos. Read More

Tips to help maintain a work-life balance during business travel

Companies have been pumping the brakes on business travel, but as the economy improves, employees are hitting the road again, realizing that investing in in-person meetings is worth the cost. As business travelers become acclimated again to a steady life back on the road, their next challenge is maintaining that illusive work-life balance. Read More

Game on! What games should kids play?

Kids love video games - they're exciting, fun and engrossing. While games can promote learning and growth, too much video gaming - or playing inappropriate games - can lead to negative consequences. What should parents know to make good game choices for their children? Read More

How to turn must-do home improvements into things of beauty

When it comes to home improvement, you can spend money in two basic ways: on things that make your home look better and things that make it function better. When "want to" and "have to" meet, they create the opportunity to make a smart buying decision - and choose an upgrade that will look good and improve the livability of your home. The key to making smart home improvement decisions is to recognize these opportunities and take full advantage of them. Read More

Easy tips to create a relaxing experience at home

In our fast-paced and chaotic lives, we're always seeking ways to relax and de-stress from the day. For some, that means watching a favorite TV show, having a nice glass of wine, or even a message at the spa, but we often forget about our homes and the impact of its design on relaxation. Read More

Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence

Your growing child needs love and attention to help build confidence to continue to try and succeed at new things. From learning how to read, preparing for grade school to being able to ride their first two-wheel bike, it's the positivity from Mom and Dad that keep kids striving for more. Sometimes kids transition with ease to the next stage in development, and other times may experience a few bumps in the road prolonging transition. One of those areas where a child might need an extra boost of confidence is when they are experiencing an issue with wetting the bed at night. Read More

Five must-have fitness tools

Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level. Read More

Tips for planning a safe and healthy honeymoon

Your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life. So why not accompany it with the best vacation of your life? Your honeymoon is not only a great chance to take the trip of a lifetime; it's also the perfect opportunity to connect to your new spouse through a shared and unforgettable experience. Read More

Teachers deserve recognition for all their hard work

Teachers touch the lives of thousands of children throughout their careers. A good teacher can help a child who hates math learn to love numbers, a shy child become a social butterfly or enable a child who can't read to learn the wonder of books. If you have children in school, you know firsthand how hard their teacher consistently works to ensure they learn, have fun and grow. Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7 to May 11 - this is the perfect time to thank your children's teachers for the important role they play in your lives. Read More

Practical 2-for-1 solutions for gardeners

What gardener doesn't find tasks like weeding and watering tiresome? To tackle recurring chores like these and more with greater ease and efficiency, consider some practical tools that offer two-in-one solutions. Read More

The ABCs of virtual school success

While every family has its own reasons for choosing full-time virtual school, the majority have children who are simply not thriving, for whatever reason, in a traditional classroom setting. Families interested in full-time online school should consider the following "ABCs" of successful virtual schooling to determine if this form of education is a good fit. Read More

Tips to keep your vehicle safe and looking great this summer

Small inconveniences can become much larger problems if not taken care of early, and unfortunately, many drivers fail to address vehicle problem signs until it's too late. Frequent checks and proper maintenance can make all the difference between a safe, attractive vehicle and an unreliable eyesore. With a few tips, you can get your vehicle into top shape for easy cruising this summer and beyond. Read More

Four easy steps to jump-start outdoor spring cleaning

If the warmer temperatures, bright sunshine and greening of spring give you the urge to clean, you're not alone. If you want to make spring cleaning easier, especially outdoor spring cleaning, a little planning will save lots of elbow grease. Read More

Avoiding five mistakes that even good homeowners make

Have you ever accidentally left a candle burning unattended? Or left home without turning on the security system? You probably made a mental note to yourself to not do it again, but otherwise didn't think much about it. But next time, you might not get so lucky. A simple "uh oh" could lead to thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Here are five tips to avoid common homeowner mistake. Read More

Green cleaning: great results without breaking the bank

While most people want to help the environment in theory, when it comes down to buying green cleaning products for their office or small business, many put concerns about effectiveness and cost above whether a product is "green." Read More

It's never too early or too late to take control of your finances

"Silly season" - the months of campaigning that lead up to a presidential election - is well under way, and it's a sure bet the country's money, finances and spending habits will be favorite issues for politicos of all persuasions. But while the debate and rhetoric is sure to be heated on both sides of the political fence, taking control of finances - specifically, your personal ones - is something worth considering this year. Remember, it's never too early or too late to take control of your finances. Read More

How to use the three Ps of decorating for an instant home and garden makeover

Looking for a trendy home and garden makeover that gives instant gratification and doesn't require a lot of time and resources? The latest trends in fashion and home decorating are drawing inspiration from the bright colors and laid-back attitudes of the tropics. Read More

Love and relationships: Setting expectations essential before unmarried couples commit to living together

It has become the new norm: Unmarried couples deciding to live together. In fact, the number of unmarried, opposite-sex couples who shared the same living quarters jumped by 13 percent, to 7.5 million, in 2010 over 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of same-sex couples living together is about 620,000. Read More

A safer smoothing treatment makes hairstyle trends easy to achieve

Fashion changes with the seasons, and those seasonal switches aren't just limited to the clothes you wear every day. Fashion forecasters pay equal attention to new hairstyles that come down the runway. Read More

Upgrade your summer with an outdoor living do-it-yourself project

Nothing says warm weather quite like backyard barbecues and pool parties. But if your outdoor living space doesn't quite make the grade, you might consider building a dream deck with your own two hands. Do-it-yourselfers not only save money in labor costs, but they also reap the pride and satisfaction of improving and adding value to their homes. Read More

Protect large investments with small home fixes

Faced with mounting financial pressure, consumers are forced to make smarter in buying decisions, especially for major investments. Big investments homeowners need to protect include their house and property. From simple preparations like servicing your heating and cooling system to protecting yourself against unexpected emergency repairs, you can take steps to safeguard your home now and avoid costly repairs later. Read More

Do-it-yourself deck-building tips

Looking for a way to enhance the use and enjoyment of your outdoor space? A deck addition may be the solution. A deck creates a designated area for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, while increasing homeowner satisfaction and home value. If you're a motivated do-it-yourselfer, building your own deck can be a fun and rewarding challenge that saves you money and ensures your outdoor space is tailored to suit you and your home. Read More

Financial savings and more when shopping online

Saving money is a hot topic these days, from television shows about extreme coupon clipping to stores advertising huge savings for specially marked and bulk items. But you might be surprised to discover how much money you can save while shopping online. Read More

Just the right size: How to shop online

Shopping online for clothes has many benefits. Still, the concern that stops many people from pushing their virtual shopping basket to check out is sizing. To learn how to order just the right size when shopping online for clothes, follow this advice from fashion school pros in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Read More

Six apps to help bring out the photographer in you

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going

As the sun stays in the sky longer and temperatures warm up, being more active is simply second-nature. Getting outdoors gives a new vitality to any exercise routine, whether you're kicking off training for your first 5K or maintaining a program you've enjoyed for years. Read More

Give grass a fresh start this spring

Grass is an extraordinary plant, the unsung hero of backyards everywhere. With proper care and feeding, grass can help clean the air, cool the ground, reduce erosion and provide one of the softest outdoor play surfaces. With all of these amazing benefits, it pays to start the spring season off right by giving grass a boost. Read More

Financial tips for new graduates

If you are a new graduate, a college degree is just the first step in the new direction your life will be taking. A new career, potentially a new community to live in and a bit of cash in your pocket to spend - there are a lot of changes happening. Here are some financial tips to help grads get the most out of their new paychecks. Read More

In a changing travel climate, travel agents reclaim the spotlight

Recent years have been revolutionary for the travel industry. The democratization of booking tickets and vacations turned the traditional model on its head - instead of going to an agent, consumers could suddenly book everything with a few clicks. But that was then - today's travel landscape is evolving in new ways, some of which have travelers reassessing the value of DIY planning versus enlisting a travel agent. Read More

Secrets to online shopping: How to access the best designer deals

How your smartphone can help you care for your car

If you can resist the temptation to reach for it while you're behind the wheel, your smartphone can be a great asset as you care for your vehicle. A smartphone can give you instructions for maintenance procedures while you are under the hood, help you find a part that needs fixing and get you to a trusted mechanic quicker and easier than ever before. Read More

Taking a test drive: Do it right

When shopping for a new or used car, the test drive is an essential part of the process. While the test drive may be exciting, experts advise car shoppers keep emotions in check and evaluate the car in its entirety to make a good purchase decision. Read More

Best options for beating the bugs of cold and flu season

Cold and flu season is now in full swing and staying healthy this time of year can be a challenge. For those suffering, identifying the type of illness - cold, flu, sinus infection, etc. - and finding the right over-the-counter medications are key in helping to alleviate symptoms. Read More

The little professional tips that make a huge difference in your desserts

Ever wonder why your meticulously crafted, measured and rolled cookies are just slightly off - whether it's the way the texture feels in your mouth or the buttery taste that is yearning for a little something more. It could be that your desserts are rebelling against the ordinary ingredients you are using. Read More

Digital cameras: creating masterpieces with each click

With warm weather luring us outside for fun outdoor activities, using a digital camera ensures timeless memories with family and friends are captured in a snap. Even with increased smartphone usage, - a recent Consumer Electronics Association report stated that 43 percent of consumers have used a smartphone in the past year to capture images - digital cameras remain the most common devices for capturing photos, with 73 percent having used a digital camera over the same time period. There are many reasons why a dedicated digital camera captures the best photos. Read More

Three things to consider before purchasing your first home

Buying your first home will likely be one of the most exciting and scary times of your life. Beyond the basic considerations - location, number of bathrooms, ranch style vs. multilevel - there are a number of important financial factors to determine before deciding which house is right for you. Read More

Achieving a slimmer summer body for swimsuit season and beyond

Longer days, bright sun and warm weather can serve as a well-needed dose of motivation to get fit for summer. The trick is to sustain that energy through each changing season as you strive to achieve a healthier lifestyle. Read More

Building project tips that save time and reduce mistakes

AJ Allmendinger, driver of the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Dodge, recently acquired a piece of land on which to build a race shop to work on his cars and store his equipment in the offseason. The project has been a learning experience for Allmendinger about the decisions and key steps that are an important part of any endeavor that requires digging. From planning the structure to installing septic and well lines to clearing the ground for digging, Allmendinger has a few tips for others who are planning digging projects. Read More

The stinky truth about a common pest

Warmer, longer days, flowers blooming, birds chirping and the onset of the garden season are all glorious signs that cold weather is behind us. And, while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Mother Nature at work is refreshing, the good does bring a few, less-than-ideal issues - a major one being stink bugs. Unfortunately, this year may see the largest population of stink bugs across the U.S. to date thanks to the very mild winter weather pattern most of the country experienced. Read More

A man's guide to making high-impact, low-fuss romantic meals

It's time to banish that old stereotype that the only guys who can cook are professional chefs. Men, even if your culinary expertise starts with boiling water and ends at the microwave, you can serve a dazzling one-pot meal for your significant other, your best buds or just yourself. Read More

How to brand your business and position it for success

For small businesses, having a well-established brand with a loyal customer base is critical to both immediate and long-term success. While investing money in brand developing tools may be costly, building a suite of business cards, postcards, signs, banners, brochures and other products that give your business a professional look can be easily and inexpensively accomplished. When your brand acts as your identity, anything you can do to increase public awareness will only help your company. Read More

Where can you find the best barbecue this Memorial Day?

Memorial Day marks the first long weekend of summer, and it is the perfect opportunity to kick off the season with a trip. Weekend getaways and barbecue are practically synonymous with summer, so why not combine the two? Here are some of the best areas around the country to discover whether you like your barbecue pulled, sliced, shredded, wet or dry. Read More

Buying a car? Avoid these wrong turns

Buying a car is like an epic adventure. Fortunately, a few simple steps can help ensure your car buying experience is a great adventure that doesn't turn into a detour to financial disaster. Here are some common wrong turns and how to avoid them. Read More

Simple solutions to common landscaping issues

There's one in every neighborhood - the house with the bright green grass, perfectly trimmed shrubs and flowers in full bloom. As you look at your own lawn, plagued with weeds and sparse patches, you wonder how your neighbor is able to achieve such a beautiful outdoor space. The secret isn't in how much time or money can be invested, but rather taking the right steps at the right time to eliminate lawn and garden problems. Read More

Take your home from dreary to cheery with a fresh coat of paint

Spring is upon us and so is the time for spring cleaning and sprucing up the house. What's a quick and easy way to make a room look instantly cleaner and brighter? Add a fresh coat of paint. But don't think this project will be a long and laborious one - with a little planning and the right products, it's as easy as one-two-three. Read More

Natalie Coughlin gears up for the Games

Have you ever wondered how the top athletes stay in such great shape? Wonder no more - Gold Medalist and World Champion swimmer Natalie Coughlin is sharing her top training tips - from stretching to eating. Read More

Adapt your vehicle and driving habits to combat rising gas prices

Just as Americans are gearing up for warm-weather road trips and family vacations, prices at the gas pump are rising. For most people, driving is essential for getting to work, taking kids to school and going out to have some fun, so filling up the tank is a non-negotiable expense. However, costs add up quickly as fuel prices climb higher, taking up more of your budget. Read More

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

Does spending time on your deck "do it for you" - or does your deck simply "do the job?" Now that warm weather has arrived, you'll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to company. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less. Read More

Style staples: jewelry essentials for every budget

Every woman knows there are some basics that have to be in her closet: a little black dress, a pencil skirt, a great pair of jeans and a classic purse. With the right building blocks, you can put together an outfit that's stylish, feminine and timeless, without a lot of fuss. The same idea should apply to your jewelry collection. When you have the essential pieces, you'll be prepared for any occasion, whether you need to be subtle or want to turn some heads. Read More