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

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

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

In retirement, how will you use your nest egg?

Determining how to manage your nest egg during retirement can seem daunting without proper guidance. Here are some tips to get you thinking about your retirement income strategy. Read More

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

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms

Spring-like temperatures arrived early this year, and with them came early allergy symptoms for many: itchy throats and eyes, stuffy noses, sneezing, teary eyes and more. These developments come on the heels of the fourth warmest winter since record keeping began, according to the U.S. National Climatic Data Center. 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

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

Easy, affordable weekend spruce-up projects you can tackle this spring

When it comes to home improvement, most of us have two "to-do" lists: the things we need to do, such as paint the shutters and clean out gutters, and the list of those we want to do, such as fun and easy projects that add visual interest or practical enhancements to the outdoors. Since our budgets for both lists are usually limited, it makes sense to seek out projects that are easy, affordable and that create the most impact in a short amount of time. 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

Eight secrets to safely buying a car online

The Internet has made it possible and practical to expand your car shopping search virtually across the country. Buying a new car online, however, is a lot different than other online purchases you might make, such as a book, music or movie. Buying a used car online is even more complex, because there can be far more unknowns to deal with. Read More

Preseason home-readiness tips for sports fans

As the weather gets warmer, fans anxiously wait for their favorite sport to take center stage. The athletes involved have been training for months for these moments, but what about the fans watching at home? Before the must-see sporting events of 2012 arrive, make sure you have all your bases covered at home. Here are a few tips to make sure you're ready. Read More

Seven things to know before tackling your 2011 tax return

Individuals and businesses spend more than 7 billion hours a year complying with federal tax-filing requirements, according to the Internal Revenue Service. To reduce the amount of time you spend, and maybe how much you owe, follow these seven tips. 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

Graduating? Career trends job-seeking students should know

Students graduating from college this year should expect better job opportunities and salaries than graduates from recent history, but that doesn't mean new graduates will have an easy time finding employment. Competition will still be fierce with hundreds of applications submitted for jobs in many industries, both from new graduates and former graduates still looking for work. If you're planning on graduating soon and seeking career opportunities, here are some employment trends to be aware of. 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 understand credit scores

Even if you review your credit report every year - and you should view it more frequently than once every 12 months - it's easy to be confused by credit scoring. To help you better understand credit scoring and how it affects your financial wellbeing here are answers to six basic credit score questions. Read More

Protecting personal information extends beyond the Web, to mobile devices

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

Get your pool ready for safe family fun

As the weather starts to warm, you can't help but stare at your backyard pool, anxious to begin a new season of memories with friends and family. No matter the season, pool safety should always be top of mind where children are concerned. With safety barriers - or layers of protection - in place between the home and the pool, you can experience the pleasures of backyard swimming pools and feel confident that children, grandchildren and visitors will be safeguarded from pool accidents. Read More

How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites

When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites. Read More

Connect on your patio or porch, enjoy the new view

With temperatures on the rise, it's time to get outside to relax with family and friends. Today's homeowners want their outdoor spaces to be an extension of their homes, with 80 percent saying a patio or front porch are "must haves," according to a survey of residential architects by the National Association of Home Builders. Read More

Meet your perfect (money) match

Decorative painting: How to transform a room with a few simple strokes

Paint can do more than change the color of a room - it can add texture, pattern and visual interest. Today's decorative painting techniques are simple and sophisticated alternatives to wallpaper, and a far cry from the dated sponge painting from years past. Whether you're a painting pro or a DIY beginner, here's how you can transform a room with a few simple strokes. Read More

Pitch in and tackle do-it-together home improvement projects

Why do-it-yourself (DIY) when you can do-it-together? Now DIYers are teaming up with friends, families or companies to tackle home improvement and spring-cleaning projects. 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

Retirement planning dos and don'ts

As with most things in life, it's never too early to plan. And even if you are not at the doorstep of retirement, there are some critical dos and don'ts related to retirement planning, that anyone could benefit from. 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

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

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

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 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

Help smokers keep resolutions and stay on track to quit - simple tips and tools

On average, it takes a smoker up to nine attempts to quit before they're able to do so successfully. Every relapse begins with smaller lapses - so quitters shouldn't stop trying. Here are some tips to help. Read More

Charming fashion trend: Tips for creating a unique gift

Charm bracelets are more popular than ever, gracing the pages of glossy fashion magazines and adorning the arms of women of all ages, yet charm bracelets are much more than a hot trend. The charm bracelet has a long history that makes it a timeless piece of jewelry and each woman's charm collection is an expression of her personal style and her unique story. Consider these tips for creating an unforgettable charm bracelet for yourself or the special women in your life. Read More

Educational programs empower patients with lung diseases

Complications associated with lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF) account for millions of emergency room visits each year. Many of these complications occur because the diseases are not being properly managed, which many - including several advocacy groups -- believe may be related to a lack of understanding and knowledge on behalf of the patient. For this reason, patient education has become increasingly important in managing lung diseases. 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

Get motivated with smartphones

If you're setting a goal for this semester, make it a double: be productive and engaged, all while staying socially connected on campus. Smartphones let you do it all, from staying on top of your academic work and never missing a social event to helping to nail down the perfect internship opportunity. Read More

The guy's guide to mulch

One of the manly rites of spring, designed to impress the neighbors, is a fresh layer of mulch. But, did you know that it can also help prevent erosion and discourage weeds in the garden? Mulch is an invaluable ingredient to a successful growing season - so much more than shredded bark sprinkled around the base of an ornamental tree each spring. Get the facts on mulch to impress all the neighbors and have a great looking landscape to boot. 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

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

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

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

Breakfast can be exciting: The proof is in the pudding

Pancake sandwiches, chicken and waffles, egg casseroles -- breakfast seems to be inspiring creativity and breaking barriers morning, noon and night. The only challenge the most important meal of the day has is its designated time slot. 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

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

Five lighting tips to make your everyday photos shine

Interior design trends: Easy seasonal changes refresh and revive your home

Spring's new growth and warm sunshine provide inspiration for renewal in our lives. It's a time to pack away the sweaters and boots for lighter layers and brimmed hats. Homeowners should embrace this same mindset - one where you pack away the heavy textures and colors of winter in favor of breezy fabrics and fun decor that inspire a fresh feeling in your house. Break out of the winter gloom by making some simple changes to your home with bright, fresh decor. Here are the top trends in interior decorating that capture the optimistic feeling of springtime, without having to spend a lot of time or money. Read More

Changing minds about cloth diapers

"Cloth diapers are hard to use." "Cloth diapers are inconvenient." "Cloth diapers don't fit my busy lifestyle." These are some of the many reasons expressed by families about why they don't or won't cloth diaper, according to author and cloth diaper advocate, Kelly Wels. 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

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

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

Save time and money by learning IRA rollover basics

The two things that everyone could use more of are time and money. One way to help free up some of both is by rolling over your existing retirement assets into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). An IRA rollover may give you greater control of assets spread across multiple accounts and potentially offers improved diversification, flexibility, guidance and service. This could save you money in fees and other costs from different accounts as well as cut down on financial paperwork and other headaches from dealing with multiple assets. 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

Upgrading your home into home sweet home

Home sweet home. With more homeowners deciding to stay put in their homes, rather than attempting to sell in the current market, that old adage is more meaningful than ever. Staying put doesn't mean homeowners are settling. Many are upgrading or redecorating their abodes, turning their old home into the stylish - yet comfortable - home sweet home they've dreamed of for many years. Read More

Home organization for the busy household

Between work, school, children's activities, family obligations and travel plans, today's busy families are left with little time to keep their homes tidy and well-organized. With summer fast approaching, it is important for on-the-go families to realize that home organization does not have to be difficult or time consuming. 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

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

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

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

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

Despite setbacks, swimmer takes head-first approach to reaching Paralympic gold

By 10 a.m., Anna Johannes has crossed more off of her daily to-do list than most strive to accomplish in a week. As a swimmer with her eyes set on the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, every moment of her day counts as she balances training, practice, taking college courses and completing homework assignments. Read More

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

Get in gear for better gas mileage this spring with eco-friendly tires

With warmer weather working its way across the country, people's attention is again turning to the environment and spring and summer driving. And as fuel prices continue to climb, gas mileage needs to be a consideration, as much for budgetary reasons as environmental impact. 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

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

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

Protect your identity as you would other valuables

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

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

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

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

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

Baby boomers: Don't let your world fall silent

The number of Americans struggling with hearing loss increases by the day. Hearing aids from a generation ago carry the stigmas of being clunky, uncomfortable and ineffective. And many image-conscious Americans ignore their hearing loss because acknowledging it brings negative attention and a perceived weakness. But hearing aid manufacturers have made significant strides in enhancing the natural performance, look and size of the latest hearing aids. Read More

Insider tips from party pros

As temperatures increase, so do the activities on your social calendar. From family reunions to graduations and weddings, warm weather means prime event season. If you're throwing a party of any kind, you likely need a few supplies. But you don't want to invest a lot of money in items you will only use once. So how do you host the party you envision without buying items you'll just have to store and maintain later? 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

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

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

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

Spring home improvements that pay off big

It's beautiful outside and the last thing you want to do is spend all of your spare time working on your home when you could be playing or spending time with loved ones. So what home improvement projects offer the biggest bang for your buck, saving you both time and money down the road? Read More

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies

For many, spring signifies the budding of flowers and longer days filled with warm sunshine. But for one in five people, spring also means allergies are in full swing. Whether you're affected year-round or during a specific season, learning how to manage allergy symptoms can be vital to restoring your comfort and quality of life. 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

Spring celebrations: Host a bite-sized brunch

Sweep away the gray days of winter and invite sunshine and friends inside. This year, open the door to spring with a bite-sized brunch. Whether entertaining a house full of guests or enjoying a casual meal with friends, put a fun, fresh twist on any celebration with a collection of easy, yet scrumptious, recipes. These recipes feature fresh eggs - a breakfast staple and a sure sign of spring. 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

Brooke Burke-Charvet manages work, life and family with allergies

Every year, an estimated 40 million Americans suffer from indoor and outdoor allergies, and managing everyday life can be challenging when also faced with troublesome symptoms, like sneezing and itchy, watery eyes. 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

To rid your garden of weeds, focus on the seeds

Every garden is filled with them: millions of unseen weeds. They are dormant seeds that lurk just below the soil surface, ready to spring to life with just the briefest exposure to light. Weeds can choke a garden, robbing it of space, nutrients and water. Allowing weeds to mature compounds the problem, as they are naturally prolific seed producers. They grow aggressively and can be tough to get rid of, because pulling weeds brings more weed seeds to the surface. The good news is that seeds can also be key to winning the war on garden weeds. 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

What every homeowner should know about ceiling fans

Ceiling fans are the jacks-of-many-trades, useful in nearly every home space and in virtually every decor. They are also a necessary element for homeowners looking to cut utility bills. If you need a new ceiling fan, it's easy to get lost in the many available options, which is why some tips from lighting professionals can be helpful. Read More

For motorists, delaying car care is a costly decision

Drivers count on their vehicles to get them to their destinations safely, but how well a vehicle runs depends on how much effort motorists put into protecting their investment in their cars. Read More

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

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

Tips for making your home green and healthy

Creating a green environment at home may sound challenging to some, but a few simple changes in household routines can benefit the environment, as well as the health of your family. 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

What NASCAR can teach you about making marriage work

Modern married life can definitely be like a NASCAR race. Read More

Why your beauty routine should go beyond one bottle

The radiance of youthful skin is something that everyone is lucky enough to have at some point. But as the years pass, that nature-given glow tends to dull and slacken, leaving most people searching for a way to recapture that look. The booming cosmetic and skincare business produces plenty of one-jar wonders that promise radical results, but many of them don't deliver. Dermatology experts know, however, that taking a broader approach to caring for your skin is the optimal way to get results. Read More

Suffer from migraines? Treatments help prevent attacks before they start

What really is migraine? Some people casually use the term to describe a bad headache. But the millions who have been diagnosed with a migraine condition know that it's so much more than that. In addition to severe head pain that can last for hours or even days, they may also experience nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Are there effective treatments for preventing debilitating migraine attacks? New guidelines say yes, but many people are not taking advantage of these treatments. Read More

Replace or repair? That's the home improvement question

Maintenance and improvement are both essential realities of home ownership. From windows and skylights to gas ranges and front doors, everything in your home will eventually need some work. But how do you know when something simply needs repair, or merits being replaced? Read More

Mexican food pairings inspired by today's hot flavor trends

The summer party season has officially begun, meaning it's time to plan fun get-togethers with family and friends. Food is central to any great celebration, but you don't need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a unique and tasty menu. You simply need some great tips and easy tricks for pairing tasty food with refreshing drinks and party success will come naturally. 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