Road trip tips: How to plan a memorable summer vacation and save money

As beautiful summer weather gradually makes its appearance across the nation, thoughts turn to summer travel plans. Americans enjoy the fun and relaxation of traveling: 77 percent of domestic trips are for leisure purposes, according to the U.S. Travel Association. If you want to vacation with friends or family, hitting the pavement for a road trip can't be beat, and with a few money-saving tips and organization tricks, you'll plan an awesome trip packed with memories. Read More

Backyard trends: Save money installing your own vinyl fence

If you want the maintenance-free benefits of a vinyl fence but are intimidated by the price tag, you're not alone. Many homeowners are initially surprised at the cost of a vinyl fence, particularly since the installation costs are generally as much as the materials. Recent trends show that more and more homeowners are saving money by installing their own vinyl fencing. Read More

Protect yourself from summer's backyard pests

Warm weather is here for the next few months, and that means you'll be spending more time outdoors with family and friends - and more time with summer pests. Mosquitoes, fire ants, bees, wasps and yellow jackets are some of summer's worst bugs. And those pests can be more than a mere nuisance. Read More

Well-built decks marry personality and functionality

As temperatures increase, your thoughts may wander to spending time outside sharing conversation, drinks and meals with friends and family. For many homeowners, that can mean renovating an existing gathering spot or replacing it with a new deck. A well-planned deck can increase a home's value and usable space. Read More

Quick tips for getting the most out of your smartphone camera

Today, the majority of adults have a mobile phone, and we're using it for far more things than simply making phone calls. According to a 2012 report from The Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project, of the 85 percent of American adults who own a cellphone, 85 percent use their cellphones to take photos. With a few tips and tricks, you'll be able to take amazing photos with your phone's camera and impress your friends. Read More

Impromptu party planning: How to create great gatherings in 30 minutes or less

Parents have never been more crunched for time. Balancing work demands with parental duties is complex - 56 percent of working moms and 50 percent of working dads say they find it very or somewhat difficult to balance these responsibilities, according to a 2013 report about modern parenthood from the Pew Research Center. But just because you're time strapped doesn't mean you need to stress when it comes time to host after-school activities or weekend gatherings with friends and family. With a few key strategies, even impromptu parties are a snap to pull together. Read More

Listen up: For better hearing, work with an audiologist

When it comes to startling health statistics, here are several you may not have heard: 36 million American have a hearing loss, yet only one out of every four people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wears one. The first step for finding the right hearing aid is to see an audiologist. Read More

Tap the hidden job market

The process of finding employment has quietly undergone an evolution. Job seekers are discovering that many positions are not posted to the public. In fact, the online career guidance resource Quintessential Careers reports that only 15 to 20 percent of available jobs post to newspapers, online job boards, or employment agencies. How can job seekers learn about these unadvertised jobs? Read More

Dress your home to impress buyers this summer

Your tastes and personal style have created a beautiful setting for your home and family. But as you prepare for house hunters visiting the space, it might be time to let go of emotional attachment and transform your home into a stunning showpiece that any potential buyer would love. Read More

Travel: cruising 101

If you're thinking of taking a cruise, there are a lot of options to consider, from the cruise line and style to the destinations, vacation length and types of on-board amenities. Cruising is a fun (and economical) way to see several places in a relatively short amount of time without having to unpack and repack every day. While some "hard-core" travelers may scoff at cruises, don't knock it till you've tried it. Read More

Solid retirement planning a must for Generations X and Y

When it comes to making plans for retirement years, today's younger workers are struggling to make heads or tails of all the resources and products available to them through work and personal investments. Such lack of financial acumen is a challenge for young adults who face a challenging job market as many continue to struggle paying back student loans and establishing both short and long term savings while balancing the needs of their growing families. Read More

Five tips to take your home from 'for sale' to 'sold'

If you've been thinking about selling your home, there's no time like the present. House hunters come out of the woodwork in warm weather months and "for sale" signs pop up everywhere. Your job is to set your home apart from all the others. In most areas around the country, it's a buyers' market. So how do you get a leg-up on the competition? Read More

Entice buyers into your home with aromatic scents

When a home smells good, it makes a favorable impression on visitors. This is exactly what home sellers want when they put their house on the market. Read More

Spring fling must-haves

Spring provides the perfect opportunity to host a party and show off all of the hard work you've put into your lawn and garden. Before your first guest arrives, make sure you have made all the preparations for your blooms to blossom, your garden to grow and your outdoor space to be pest free. Read More

Choosing the right financial products for all stages of life

No matter where you are in your life, you have a lot of decisions to make. When to buy your first house? What school to attend? Is it the right time for a job change? As things change in life, those changes influence your financial decisions, too. Read More

No need to buy new - a simple update will do

If you're like most homeowners, you have several furniture and decor pieces around the house that have seen better days. And while the natural response is to throw away outdated items and buy something new, even lackluster home objects deserve a second chance. You can easily transform your trash into treasure with a little creativity and some elbow grease. Read More

How to find the right vet for your pet

Pet owners have many responsibilities, and keeping your pet healthy with veterinary care is a significant one. To help make sure your pet receives high quality medical care, several veterinarians offer advice on how to find the right vet for your pet. Read More

Easy DIY cures for common concrete problems

As with other home maintenance tasks, making your own repairs to minor concrete damage yourself can prevent problems from becoming worse - and turning into something that requires costly replacement by professionals. Here are some concrete repair tasks that you can do yourself, and helpful tips for doing the jobs right. Read More

Season's cleanings - tips to keep your home clean and clutter free

To get your home in tip-top shape this summer, start by breaking down your to-do list room by room. With a little planning, you can create easily achievable goals that will leave your house looking fabulous and you feeling refreshed. Read More

Make your summer sizzle

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Dogged by pricey pet care? Cost-cutting tips for pet owners

These days, everyone is searching for ways to save money and stretch budgets. Consumer experts advise people to sniff out deeper discounts, saving opportunities and additional ways to cut costs. For pet owners, it can feel challenging to cut costs without compromising on care. Read More

Tips on how to use Craigslist safely and responsibly

Need a bike to start getting into shape? Looking for a new job? Interested in renting a condo for that long-desired trip? Every day, millions of Americans turn to Craigslist.org to buy and sell items, find jobs, meet other people or find a vacation property to rent. More than 60 million people use the website and view an estimated 100 million ads per month in the U.S. alone, according to the company. Read More

Massage tips to help ease your over-active muscles

Now that summer has arrived, you are beginning to engage in more outdoor activities, including running, hiking, biking and recreational sports. After being less active during the winter and spring, however, you may experience aches and pain in muscles, and massage therapy can help to alleviate discomfort naturally. Here are some tips for achieving a great massage therapy experience. Read More

How to avoid a big tax bill or fine-tune your refund

Think back to your last income tax return. Did you owe Uncle Sam a lot of money, or did he give you a big refund? Whatever your situation, you can influence next year's outcome by adjusting your payroll withholding. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Add fresh grapes for great summer dishes

Grapes from California are in abundant supply throughout the summer which is welcome news for those seeking a healthy, refreshing snack. They're also a boon to the home cook: grapes provide bright color, a sweet-tart flavor, and a refreshing burst of juice to warm-weather dishes. Read More

Mold woes? Manage moisture through better ventilation

Mold troubles in your home can cause health troubles for your family, and both issues can be notoriously difficult to resolve. Fortunately, you can take steps to manage moisture and reduce the risk of mold growth in your home. Read More

Four simple steps to help DIYers get pro-level painting results

When it comes to simple, low-cost home improvements that can add value and completely change the look of a room, you just can't beat painting. Any do-it-yourselfer can achieve professional-looking painting results when they follow the right steps and use the right painting tools. Read More

Think outside the fuse box: Unique energy-saving home improvements

When you've covered the basic and obvious ways to trim energy use at home, it's time to start thinking outside the fuse box. Here are three unique home improvements that can help make your house even more energy-efficient. Read More

Address your skin's needs through a holistic approach to facial skincare

Many women cite a number of external factors that can trigger sensitive skin flare-ups, including harsh ingredients, weather and makeup. What they may not know is that lifestyle choices can also influence the health and appearance of their skin. Follow these top tips from the experts to get flawless skin. Read More

A tech refresh: Top reasons to buy a new PC

At 4 years old, your child is probably adorable. But your 4-year-old PC - not so much. If you find you have plenty of time to brew coffee, prepare your cup, drink it down and start on the next while still waiting for your PC to boot up in the morning, it may be time for a new computer. Read More

Create an outdoor space that 'wows'

Whether you own a cozy cottage or mega mansion, as a homeowner, you likely embrace the outdoor living trend. But when you look at your deck or patio, does it leave something to be desired? By taking a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach, you can affordably create outdoor spaces that enhance the style and functionality of your home, plus add to the overall value of the property. Read More

Staging on a shoestring: Tips from the pros for quick home sales

The real estate market is starting to show signs of improvement, which is welcome news for people wanting to sell their homes. This positive momentum alone isn't enough to close a deal, though - a homeowner must make their properties appealing to potential buyers so they stand out from the competition. The good news is it's easy to create an appealing atmosphere with a few staging tips and tricks from the experts. Read More

Tips for managing your career on social media

Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, at some point you'll likely find yourself searching for a new job. And as you start your job search, it's important to understand the impact your use of social media may have on your career. Read More

A small investment returns a safer and healthier home

Warm weather is here, which means many homeowners are beginning new DIY projects. Have you included home safety on your list? Almost every home in the U.S. has a smoke alarm, but most do not have enough. Fire experts recommend installing alarms on every floor and inside and outside of every sleeping area. A recent survey by Kelton Research found less than a quarter of homeowners have applied this rule. A fire can double in size every 30 seconds. The sooner you hear a smoke alarm, the more time you have to escape. Read More

You can donate your time as well as your money

Nonprofit organizations depend on monetary donations to keep their operations running and support the communities they serve. Many people, however, want to do more than write a check to local organizations they support, so they become volunteers. Read More

Five tips for kitchen redos

Feel the need to renovate? If so, you're not alone. Fifty-three percent of homeowners believe that now is a good time to remodel, according to a recent survey by Houzz.com. When deciding on where the makeover begins, look no farther than the kitchen. Kitchens are a major selling point for homebuyers, so a kitchen remodel is good for the home-selling price. Even if you have no plans to move, the kitchen gets more traffic than any other area of a home and serves as the family hub, so it deserves the attention. To ensure a successful project, keep in mind these kitchen-remodeling tips. Read More

From your closet to the catwalk: DIY ideas to make your wardrobe runway-worthy

It's the cycle of fashion - trends are always recycling, returning and changing. Save time and money by transforming your existing wardrobe into stylish, on-trend pieces with a few simple tricks. Read More

A recipe for fun: Tips for hosting a family-friendly brunch

Nothing gets your day off to a better start than a tasty breakfast - but on most days, you're too rushed and stressed to enjoy it. Thankfully, on weekends and holidays, it's a whole different story. There's time to relax, enjoy the company of family and friends and prepare and serve that best-loved of all leisurely meals: brunch. Read More

Roof maintenance tips for every season

From intense heat to extreme snow, your roof protects your house from the elements all year long. When is the last time you checked to make sure your roof was in good shape? No matter what the seasons are like in your area, now is the time to begin preparation for extreme weather by giving your roof a second look. Read More

Tips for traveling solo

Is there such a thing as a typical traveler? Not anymore. Travelers run the gamut in age, interests, preferences, likes and dislikes. For couples, families and solo travelers alike, travel preferences have never been so diverse. Nor has the world of travel been so accessible and appealing. And, if you're thinking about traversing the world as a solo traveler, there's never been a better time to go. Read More

Summer provides opportunities for savvy students and career seekers

The summer educational break is no excuse to put academic or career ambitions on vacation. In fact, the traditionally slower months of summer are an ideal opportunity to assess academic and career goals. Read More

Tips for setting up your home theater viewing space

The home entertainment center concept has evolved dramatically over the past decade, from a single "tube" TV and a DVD player to full-blown, high-definition multi-media centers. The technology today offers a more immersive experience. And with a proper set up, you can enjoy the full potential of the pride and joy of your living room. Read More

Home harmonizing: Making outdoor entertaining areas as useful as indoors

The trend toward outdoor living spaces shows no signs of slowing, and the newest step in the trend is blurring the lines between outdoor and indoor spaces. Outdoor spaces are truly becoming an extension of indoors, mimicking the most useful and appealing elements of indoor spaces. The trend is rewriting how Americans construct, outfit and enjoy that backyard staple, the deck. Read More

Get your car road trip ready

You may be dreaming about escaping on a vacation, but the sky-high costs of flights and cruises can quickly turn into a nightmare. If you're looking to take a break without breaking the bank, a good, old-fashioned road trip could be the way to escape. Aside from packing snacks and preparing the perfect playlist, there are a few things you should consider before venturing out on the open road. A few updates and precautions can help you avoid the wear and potential safety hazards a long trip can have on your vehicle. Read More

Lawn care 101: Dig into spring with tips for a lush lawn

Having a well-kept lawn not only will keep you in your neighbors' good graces, it also adds value to your home. Lawn care doesn't need to be complicated, but sometimes it just needs to be done. Read More

Cleaning the right way to remove allergens

When you're done with your regular cleaning routine, you may assume you've eliminated any allergy triggers that were lurking in your home. But the truth is, if you don't clean the right way, you might be making the problem worse. Read More

Birdfeeder basics: Bring on backyard birds with the right feeders

When you dine, do you prefer clean and attractive tableware? Does ambiance enhance your enjoyment of your food? Birds feel the same way about their dining habits - the type and cleanliness of your bird feeders directly affects the number and species of birds that will visit your backyard this season. Here is some guidance for choosing the right feeder styles to attract the maximum number of feathered friends to your yard. Read More

How to ace your next job interview

Making it to the job interview stage means your skill set and resume have caught the interest of a potential employer, who now wants to determine if you'll be a good fit as an employee of a company. Acing the interview is essential if you want to convince the employer that you're the right person for the job. Read More

Affected by diabetes? Important facts and developments you should know

A disease so prevalent that it is labeled an epidemic in America, diabetes affects nearly 26 million children and adults, according to the American Diabetes Association. As this number grows, so does the urgency of finding a cure. Staying informed is an important part of managing a diabetes diagnosis. Here are some of the top myths and misconceptions about diabetes. Read More

What every parent needs to know about keeping kids safe around medicine

Every year more than 67,000 children are treated in an emergency room for accidental medicine poisoning. That's one child every eight minutes. Even more surprising is that in 86 percent of serious cases seen in emergency rooms, the child got into medicine belonging to an adult. Read More

Tips for a bigger tax refund

If you typically dread income tax time, remember this: Three out of four taxpayers receive a federal refund, and the average direct-deposited refund last year was $2,923. You have almost as many tax savings opportunities as last year, thanks to the fiscal cliff-averting tax changes passed in early January. In addition to extending the lower Bush-era income tax rates for nearly all taxpayers, the American Tax Relief Act made permanent or extended dozens of tax breaks. Read More

Add years to your pet's life with expert tips

Few things in life are as special as the unconditional love and loyalty a pet provides. With 78.2 million owned dogs and 86.4 million owned cats in the United States, according to The Humane Society, it's obvious Americans enjoy having pets. What might not be so apparent is how best to care for them. When it comes to making sure your pet stays healthy and lives as long as possible, what steps can you take? Read More

DIY or DI-don't? When to do it yourself, when to hire a pro

Whether painting or building, the good news is every job can be considered a DIY project. Here are three popular home projects with suggestions for when to DIY and when to call in a pro. Read More

Staying at the top of your game

We feel our best when we do our best. At the top of our game is where we all want to be. This is as true in the workplace as it is on the basketball court. But to stay at the top of your game at work and in life, you need to stay primed - ready for that next big play. It requires staying alert; keeping your skills sharp; and hearing your best. That's right - hearing your best. Listening is one of the top skills employers look for in those being promoted. Read More

Shrug off that winter chill with smart home improvement projects

Spring is drawing nearer and, for homeowners, now is the time to shrug off the winter chill and think about home improvement plans. Building industry experts say that it's an ideal time to carefully consider and prioritize your plans - both cosmetic and structural. Read More

The most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a home improvement contractor and how to avoid them

Consumer complaints and lawsuits regarding home improvements are on the rise according to Ripoff Reports; a homeowner that does not do their homework before embarking on a project could find themselves with poor workmanship, inferior products, health and safety issues or even legal problems. Read More

Garden detective: Clues to determine and deter unwanted animals in your yard and garden

Holmes and Watson, Riggs and Murtaugh, Starsky and Hutch - when it comes to sleuthing out just what critter is munching on your spring garden, you may feel like your partnership with Mother Nature is as contentious as any that ever graced the big, or small screen. After all, how are you supposed to fight the "crime" of a decimated garden if you can't identify the suspect who's been devouring your daylilies? Read More

Is it time for a financial checkup?

For most of us, checkups are a regular part of life. Dental visits, auto maintenance appointments and even glances in the bathroom mirror all help us catch potential problems and assure that all is - or will be - well. What's true of teeth, engines and grooming is also true of finances: regular checkups are recommended. Read More

Preserving our planet: How to celebrate the environment every day

Greenhouse gases are at an all-time high. Although some gases are naturally present in the atmosphere, such as water vapor, ozone, methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, human activities have created a new set of greenhouse gases (GHG) that are negatively affecting the ozone layer. GHGs are making it easier for the sun's harmful UV rays to pass through, which has resulted in global warming. Read More

What to look for in your next smartphone

Seventy-nine percent of smartphone users have their phones on or near them all but two hours of the day when they're awake, according to a recent IDC Research report. For many, smartphone use is now a way of life, making it even more important to think carefully before you choose your next one. Read More

Four simple tips to help you land a great job

Whether you're just graduating and entering the job market for the first time or you're changing careers, job searching is never easy. In today's high-tech society, many potential employers are turning to social media to learn more about you. Here are some top tech tools and social media tips for landing your dream job. Read More

Getting girls excited about science and math

Women currently hold fewer than 25 percent of jobs in science, technology, engineering and math fields, but job opportunities in those areas are expected to grow almost twice as much as other occupations by 2018. Parents of girls currently in junior high or high school can encourage their daughters to stay interested in science and math by supporting their education in the subjects, both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. Read More

DIY tricks that make bathroom renovations easy

When it comes to home improvement, Americans have embraced doing it themselves - in a big way. Among homeowners who plan to make improvements, 64 percent say they will do it themselves, according to American Express' Consumer Spending and Saving Report. Yet one area of home improvement continues to give even adventurous and confident DIYers pause - bathroom renovation. Read More

Cleaning and preparing your grill for the barbecue season

Without a proper cleaning of your grill, buildup and grease will keep you from attaining the succulent flavors in your foods that your appliance is capable of producing. A clean grill also helps prevent flare-ups and grease fires. Here are three important steps to returning your grill to perfect grilling status - which could lead to your crowning as the neighborhood grill master: Read More

Tips to keep potty training positive

Parents everywhere agree - potty training can be a struggle. You worry about taking your toddler out in public or trying to find ways to simultaneously encourage potty training and boost your child's self-confidence. Try a couple of tips to make the potty training experience fun and consistent. Read More

Couples who design together, stay together

Opposites attract, and for couples who live together, compromising on personal style and design choices can be a difficult bridge to cross. Someone who wants a modern, contemporary vibe might not like the decor choice of someone who prefers a more traditional or rustic feel. What most people don't realize, however, is that blending two opposing tastes can actually be more visually appealing than sticking with just one design style. And, more importantly, it can be done quickly and affordably. Read More

Gluten-free meals with 'wow' factor, from breakfast to dinner

As awareness of gluten-free diets continues to grow, more people are searching for ways to make their menus delicious, creative and varied while still staying gluten-free. In the past, forgoing gluten was challenging at best and frustrating at worst, due to a lack of available ingredients and products. But that was then. Now, whether it's gluten intolerance or a goal of healthier eating that drives your meal plans, you can indulge and enjoy great meals from breakfast to dinner (and everything in between). Read More

Reinvent yourself: How to start your own (creative) business

Many graduates in creative fields like graphic design, interior design or Web design are opting to start their own businesses. This is because recent figures show only a slight reduction in the unemployment rate, and job growth is at its lowest in six months. So, how can you make your business a success? Read More

Summer garden glory without the weeding and watering

Summer can be tough on gardens. In what should be their glory days, many gardens suffer from neglect. Long weekends and summer vacations leave yards untended, while summer heat is an excuse for putting off chores. But it doesn't have to be that way. It's possible to have both a glorious well-maintained garden and time for fun in the sun by taking some smart gardening steps now. Read More

The wedding shoe trend for everyone: pain-free and pretty

Sparkles, spangles and color, new or vintage, whatever your preference in wedding shoe styles there's one trend that every bride should get behind: comfort. Here is some advice for choosing the most comfortable options in some popular wedding styles. Read More

Renew yourself and your home in four easy steps

Your home can find new life when the weather warms. The transition of seasons is a perfect opportunity to refocus on improving yourself and your space. Read More

Top three reasons to find your banking bliss

What would you do with an extra hour this week? Maybe you would sit down to watch your favorite TV program, jump back into that book you've been dying to finish, or pick up the phone to catch up with an old friend. Gaining an hour this week may be as simple as having a good relationship with your bank. Read More

Three stress-free tricks to refresh your home from floor to ceiling

Spring is the time of year for renewal. So, it's no surprise that springtime finds most people planning to rejuvenate their spaces. Follow these three tips to give your home a stress-free, springtime makeover. Read More

Building project tips to ensure a successful and smooth build

Joey Logano, driver of the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion, recently started a huge project: building a race shop for his cars and equipment from the ground up. After deciding to build his own shop, Logano purchased a piece of land and started digging. The massive undertaking brought with it its own trials and learnings, but in the end, Logano took measures to build safely and securely. The project resulted in an impressive race shop that will be used for years to come. Read More

Fitness tips to get ready for summer fun

The sun is shining longer every day, telling you that it's time to get ready for vacations, activities with family and friends and of course, swimsuit season. To help you prepare, there are some simple fitness tips you can follow to look and feel good this summer season. Read More

Educate yourself before starting the path to a new career

If you're looking to start a career - whether it's because you're just beginning your journey as a working adult or because you're ready for a change in life - you should know that the process is much larger than just getting a degree and looking for a job. Read More

Decluttering advice for those drowning in digital chaos

Smartphones, tablets, desktops, laptops, e-readers and music players - most of us have more than one digital device in our lives. Juggling so many devices and trying to sync data among them can leave you feeling like you're drowning in digital chaos. If you're looking to declutter your digital life, getting a handle on your music is a good place to start. Read More

Extend your living space outdoors into your backyard

The backyard is more than just a lawn to mow or a place for the pooch to run around. Many homeowners are turning their backyards into an extension of their homes, bringing the indoors outside for additional living space. Read More

Tips for baby boomers seeking divorce

Baby boomer couples that have been married 25 years or more are divorcing at record rates, according to a recent study by the National Center for Family and Marriage Research at Bowling Green University in Ohio. While overall divorce rates peaked in the 1980s at around 50 percent, divorce among baby boomer couples 50 years or older has doubled over the last 20 years. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Tips for motorcycle riders: Hit the road and ride responsibly

Freedom. The open road. There's nothing quite like the big sky ahead of you and feeling the rumble of your motorcycle. It's motorcycle season across the United States and Canada. Warm weather accompanied by clear roads means it's time to seek adventure, even if that means ditching your car for your daily commute to and from work. But before heading out, motorcyclists should take heed, because in our automobile and truck-dominated society the odds are not on the side of motorcyclist. Consider this advice. Read More

On the move? Use these packing tips and tricks

While relocation may never be completely carefree, there are ways to ease the anxiety. A well-thought-out approach to boxing up belongings can help simplify the moving process and bring you one step closer to making your new house a home. Read More

Boarding your four-legged family member

Whether traveling for business or fun, it's not always practical to take along a four-legged family member. Arranging care of a beloved pet for an extended absence can be daunting. Knowing what to look for in a kennel, and what to look out for, can help you choose wisely. Read More

Stylish stairs: Five can-do ideas that add personality

Stairs are no longer just a way to get from one floor to another. Realizing that staircases are quite often major focal points in their homes, homeowners are showing love to this once underappreciated space with a wide variety of creative and easy updates. Add personality and perk-up the daily climb in your home with these five do it yourself projects. Read More

The surprising ingredient that makes favorite recipes tastier and healthier

Modern or current may not be the word that comes to mind when you think of cottage cheese, but this dairy case classic is experiencing a resurgence that is taking it beyond the diet plate to a starring role in how consumers eat today. Read More

Creating the perfect sleep environment this spring

Everyone, including moms and doctors, can agree that a good night of sleep is necessary for good health, high energy, and an individual's overall well-being. Not getting enough good sleep - or rapid eye movement sleep - can affect the mind and body's ability to react appropriately to outside factors, the National Sleep Foundation reports. Read More

Five budget-friendly outdoor living space solutions

As summer approaches, you're probably dreaming of a luxurious outdoor retreat ideal for al fresco lunches, cookouts with friends or lazy afternoons spent sunbathing. While you also may be wondering if this project fits within your budget, it is possible to construct a completely customized outdoor oasis without breaking the bank. Read More

Ask the Pharmacist: Controlling asthma during allergy season

The sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and pollen counts are soaring ... and that means millions of Americans are dealing with the sneezing and wheezing that comes with seasonal allergies. While allergies are sometimes considered an uncomfortable nuisance, for the 25 million Americans with asthma, seasonal allergies can trigger serious attacks that if not managed properly could lead to a visit to the ER. Follow these tips. Read More

Green gardening tools and techniques that really work

Americans have embraced recycling and are enthusiastic about cleaner energy sources. Yet when it comes to caring for their outdoor environment, many people still use less earth-friendly tools and techniques. Advances in environmentally responsible products have made it possible for homeowners to effectively care for their gardens and landscaping, while protecting the environment at the same time. Read More

Get ready to spice up summer meals

The inspiration for a great taco can be found in many places - from farmers markets to food trucks to upscale restaurants. All across the country, chefs and home cooks alike are reinventing the taco with global flavors and fresh ingredients. Craving a perfect, exciting taco? Five secrets to success Read More

Give your home a true green cleaning

When you clean your house, you really want it to be clean. Dirt, dust and germs are banned, and all appliances, floors and walls are scrubbed clean. The best way to make sure your living space is clean and healthy is to use safe, natural cleaning products you create yourself, using natural and inexpensive ingredients you can pick up at any natural grocery store. Read More

Give your small business a social facelift

Small businesses that adopt online marketing strategies see significant business benefits, ranging from improved campaign performance to higher return on investment (ROI), according to a recent study conducted by Forrester. However, small businesses are likely still favoring newspaper advertising and direct mail, which are time-intensive and costly. Read More

A celebrity chef's tips for scoring big with game-day partying

Whatever sports you like to watch - whether pro levels or big collegiate moments such as the NCAA Men's Final Four, NCAA Frozen Four or College World Series - they all have one important thing in common: watching with friends makes them even more fun. Hosting the perfect game-day viewing party is sure to score big with your friends, no matter what sport you're watching together. Read More

Five questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent

Want to sell your property quickly? Looking for your dream house? Are you hoping to get the best deal possible during the complex process of buying or selling a home? With so much money - and often, emotion - at stake, going it alone is generally not the best way to reach your goals. The secret for getting exactly what you want: Work with a savvy real estate agent. Read More

From golf to fishing: America's ultimate destinations for active travel

The word "vacation" means different things to different people. For some, it's lounging poolside and sleeping until noon. Others, however, savor the opportunity to get outside, try some new activities and indulge in their favorite pastimes for days on end. If you're one of the latter group, there are few better places to travel than right here in the United States. Read More

Save time and money with easy DIY auto maintenance tips

Vehicles are a big investment for families - usually the second highest valued item in a household after the home itself. While the purchase price for cars, trucks and SUVs keeps going up, the cost of maintenance is holding steady or even dropping for most vehicles. Better materials, sophisticated computers and other advances increase reliability and allow less frequent oil changes, tune-ups and other service. Read More

2013 tax season tips

Save money and do a world of good with reusable containers

Even as the country moves out of the great recession, many Americans are still in a money-saving mode - looking to conserve wherever possible. Read More

The evolution of accounting: new careers in the language of business

Numbers span all languages and cultures, creating what is known as the language of business: accounting. The earliest accounting records date back thousands of years to the use of an abacus, a rudimentary counting tool. As the workplace has progressed, so has the role of the accounting professional. This has been particularly evident in recent years; the integration of technology in accounting has created many specializations and job opportunities within the field - from forensic accounting to health care IT auditors. Read More

Knowing your risks for type 2 diabetes

Understanding your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, or getting an early diagnosis, is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death. Read More