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

Serving God and your country: Be the one service members seek to provide constant spiritual guidance both at home and overseas

Whatever their backgrounds, beliefs and duties, Sailors have religious needs that must be met while they are answering the call to serve their country. They need guidance, moral support and worship opportunities - services especially critical to help guide them through the challenges of the job and family life. 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

Deductions that could dramatically cut your tax bill

Five things to do before sending your child to camp wearing hearing aids

Summer is approaching and many parents will be sending their children off to camp. If your child wears hearing aids and is set to attend a summer camp for kids of all abilities, there are five things you can do to help your child get the most from his or her summer camp experience. Read More

Five tips for spring home decorating 'eco-style'

As spring blossoms, so does our desire to lighten up - in life and at home. Simple eco-friendly changes to home decor can set the tone for a much fresher and brighter outlook. Here are five tips to get you started. Read More

Trash vs. treasure: Expert tips when hunting for authentic garage sale finds

Collecting relics isn't a hobby just for Grandma and Grandpa any more. With the explosive popularity of TV shows centered around unearthing historic memorabilia and valuable pieces of Americana, searching for knickknacks and artifacts that make one-of-a-kind home decor is now a popular pastime for people of all ages. But how do you know the difference between what's really treasure and what's simply trash? Read More

Tips and trends to create the wedding of your dreams for less

When it comes to the big day, you want a wedding that suits you and your fiance perfectly, whether it's a casual outdoor affair or a formal black-tie event. One thing every couple can agree on is that planning a wedding shouldn't be stressful. A few insider tips and trends of 2013 will help you plan the wedding of your dreams without undue stress. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budgeting 101: How new graduates can conquer entry-level income challenges

Top technology trends for 2013 that make your life easier

Whether you are a college student, working parent or empty-nester, modern life has never been busier. Luckily, a variety of technology innovations are dramatically affecting the way we live, helping us streamline our routines, reduce stress and maximize each minute of the day. Which new technologies are proving to be indispensable? 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

Select the right insurance for your home-based business

Home-based businesses are booming. About 36.6 million businesses operate from U.S. households, according to the Home Based Business Institute. And the Small Business Administration notes that 53 percent of all small businesses located in the U.S. are home-based, with those numbers expected to grow substantially in the near future. But before you start planning your home-based bakery, personal training studio or computer repair venture, there's one important thing to think about: the right insurance to protect your at-home enterprise. 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

Simple ways to give meals a boost of flavor

Flavor is a top priority whether you're cooking for a gathering or simply putting food on the table for a weeknight meal. Great tasting food can do a lot: turn a party into a success, make guests rave and even get the kids to clean their plates. Luckily, you don't have to be a five-star chef to give your meals a flavorful boost that everyone will love. Read More

How to breathe easier in your own home this spring

With spring on the horizon, airborne allergens and pollutants can cause much grief to homeowners who suffer from breathing problems such as asthma and seasonal allergies. With the potential for increased irritation, allergy sufferers typically seek long-term, consistent relief any way they can. Read More

Basic maintenance can keep your lawn equipment running longer

Spring is just around the corner, so it's not too soon to begin thinking about getting your lawn equipment ready. From lawn mowers to hedge and weed trimmers, you want to make sure those items are in good working order before you are ready to tackle the lawn for the first time. Taking the time for seasonal maintenance will mean more reliable equipment and a safer experience for you. Here are some great tips to make sure you're ready to go for the season. Read More

Don't duplicate the stress: think taxes year-round

Now that the April 15 tax filing deadline has passed, so too has the stress associated with filing taxes for most people. This year, resolve to think about taxes early and often so you don't get caught in a last-minute panic. Here are some important tips to consider. Read More

Tips for knowing when it's time to replace products on your home

Owning a home means giving constant attention to the building products that go into protecting the structure of your house. While we'd like to believe items like our roof, siding and windows will last forever, that's not the case. All items will eventually need replacing, and here's how to know what to look for. Read More

Dad, you deserve a break (Easy DIY projects that spruce up a home in no time)

With Father's Day right around the corner, give Dad a break from his "to do" list by taking care of the easier DIY tasks for him. From simple fixes to bigger projects, sometimes all you need is the right tool at the right time, to get the job done. Read More

Rattling down the highway? What those common car noises mean

"What is that rattling? Is it serious?" We all can get a little paranoid about a new sound our car is making. Those sounds can certainly be annoying, but what people don't realize is sometimes those sounds may be linked to something more serious. Read More

Top tips for avoiding injury and strain while gardening

Fresh packets of seeds, the dirt between your fingers, and the smell of freshly churned earth - gardening season has officially begun. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a newbie to home planting, gardening is a great activity that provides both physical and mental health benefits. But one unwelcome part of taking up gardening as a hobby is the potential for strain and injury. Follow these tips and you'll get the most out of your garden and avoid hurting yourself. 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

Zapping top myths about laser hair removal

For people considering laser hair removal for the summer, there's good news - now is the perfect time to start. Easily hidden under typical cool weather clothing like bulky sweaters and leggings, skin is shielded from the sun and thus in perfect condition for hair removal. However, many men and women are on the fence when it comes to investing in long term hair removal due to several common misconceptions. Read More

Making summer fun to teach your kids life lessons

Ah, the hot days of summer when a neighborhood lemonade stand is the perfect place to buy - or sell - a cold, refreshing drink. While a lemonade stand is a classic summer activity for kids and their parents, it's also a great way to help teach children about earning money, building community and expressing creativity. 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

Upcycling: Breathe new life into decor with a dash of DIY inspiration

If you've ever looked around your house and gotten the urge to purge, you might consider pausing and first thinking about how you could transform that old, damaged piece of furniture or outdated light fixture into a fresh-faced showpiece for your home. 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

Be a real life hero: Taking on the most impossible missions and doing whatever it takes to keep America safe

When the Navy needs to complete seemingly impossible missions or track elusive targets, the job is often assigned to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) or Naval Special Operations (NSO) teams. These elite men and women work with dedication and intense courage in locations all over the world, and in every possible climate, to neutralize potential threats. 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

How to host a healthier happy hour

Going out with co-workers or friends after work is a great way to relax, but when you host a happy hour at home, you have full control over the guest list, atmosphere, music and, most importantly, the menu. Use these simple tips to entertain your friends, and your home may just become the new happy hour hot spot. 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

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

Getting married this summer? Tips for combining all your stuff

Wedding day traditions vary ever so slightly from decade to decade based on music, fashion and cultural change. However, today's newlyweds have a distinct issue that their parents probably didn't face a quarter century ago - which sectional couch stays, and which one goes? 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

Selling your home? Make it more appealing to buyers

You've made the decision to sell your home - now you want to position yourself for a quick and successful sale. What's the most important thing you can do to entice buyers? Read More

National Infant Immunization Week: a reminder of the importance of vaccination for children

Immunizations have had an enormous impact in helping to improve the health of children in the United States, according the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While vaccination has helped to reduce many childhood diseases, some of these diseases still exist and could reappear if vaccination coverage wanes. Read More

One-of-a-kind ideas for an unforgettable wedding

Want to make your wedding moments one-of-a-kind? Here are some unique wedding ideas to inspire you. Read More

Busted: The top 4 most common pet myths

It's no secret that Americans love their pets. When it comes to U.S. pet ownership, 39 percent of households own at least one dog, and 33 percent own at least one cat, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Furry family members bring joy and excitement to a household, and providing the best care possible helps ensure pets have a long, healthy life. Unfortunately, with so much information available, it's easy to become confused about what's really best for them. Here's what you really need to know. Read More

Traveling made simple: easy, convenient snacks to tag along on your next trip

With family vacation time nearly here, it's tempting to give in to "fast" food options on the road. But faster options usually leave a lot to be desired as far as nutrition goes, especially for little ones. Try these creative ways to spice up your family's snack routine and help you enjoy delicious and nutritious snacks on the go. Read More

Sell your home faster with these cost-effective staging tips

Appearances count, especially when you're trying to sell a home. Even though the housing industry experts predict this spring will be a seller's market, it's important to grab every advantage when you're trying to sell your home. Staging - decorating a house to appeal to the broadest possible range of buyers - can make the difference between a quick sale or a long, painful linger on the market. 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

Don't let spring cleaning weigh you down: Here's how to spring forward

Tips for making your spring cleaning a breeze

A long winter season can leave you and your family longing for outdoor activities. Before you head for some fresh air fun, you need to get your home in order for the spring and summer months ahead. Read More

Honeymoon encore: The big move in

It may come as a surprise to young engaged couples, but the excitement of the wedding and honeymoon doesn't end when it's all over. In fact, after the honeymoon, it's time to roll up your sleeves and plan the big move - the joining of two households. 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

The 5 money habits that can help you find true wealth

When did money get so complicated? From spending and charity to saving and investing, it's hard to know exactly what to do with your finances. Cut through the confusion and consider five smart ways you can use your money to your advantage today. 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

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

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

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

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

Outdoor entertaining made easy

Patio season has arrived, and opportunities for outdoor social gatherings will abound in the coming months. Birthdays, graduations, showers, holidays and any other reasons to enjoy warm weather will call for unique outdoor party solutions that differ from indoor events. Here are a few ideas to make al fresco entertaining a snap. 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

Tips for creating a greener outdoor living space

Outdoor living spaces remain a popular home improvement, but while you're planning your patio or prepping your planting beds do you consider the impact these improvements might have on the environment? Creating a great outdoor space can be even more satisfying when you take steps to make your project as "green" as possible. Read More

A bright idea: Tips to save money, energy with LED light bulbs

With the U.S. incandescent phaseout wrapping up in January 2014, there are a lot of confusing messages in the lighting aisle using unfamiliar words like "lumens" and "kelvins." The solution is simple, instead of getting lost in the maze of bulb options, go for the one that will make your life easier and save you money. Read More

Bright ideas to get your home guest ready

Summer has arrived and vacation season is underway. With the kids home from school, and family and friends anxious to visit, you can expect the stress of getting your home ready to be in full swing. Here are a few helpful tips that will make you a successful host and give your guests a warm welcome. Read More

Whitewashed floors complement lively decorating trends

It's the season of sunshine and enjoying the great outdoors. Celebrate it with a style makeover for your home by tapping lively decorating trends and home decor ideas that will refresh and brighten your living space. Read More

2013 tax season tips

Hands-on advice for getting the best from your touchscreen mobile device

From its very basic beginnings in the mid-1960s to the first consumer applications on ATM machines in the '80s, touchscreen technology has reached virtually everywhere - including our pocket-sized mobile devices. As astounding as the touch-enabled smartphone or mobile device is, you still need to handle and use it wisely in order to ensure its optimal functionality. Here is some hands-on advice to help ensure you get the best out of your mobile device. 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

Financial planning insights for the LGBT community

Chef-inspired tips for a cleaner, more efficient kitchen

If cleanliness is next to godliness - as the old adage goes - than a clean kitchen is simply a divine place to be. It's the room in your home that gets the most intense use, so keeping your kitchen clean can be a challenge. You can make kitchen cleanup a bit easier if you take your cleanliness cues from professional chefs. Read More

Smart, stylish renovations for any age

Most Americans over 50 want to stay in their home as they age, but few are making the renovations they need to ensure easy and comfortable living for years to come. 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

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

Bringing home baby: When to call the doctor

Most new parents are anxious when their infant has a fever, or is fussy, stuffy and simply not acting right. But how do you decide to call the pediatrician or to wait - especially in the middle of the night? Read More

Get glowing with simple tips for summer skincare

To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference

For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they're cared for. Having a bowl of grandma's famous soup or your aunt's special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families' home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones. 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

Easy tips for a manicured lawn

The days are getting longer, the grass is growing and yard work season has begun. Many homeowners strive to have the best lawn in the neighborhood, but the task ahead can often feel daunting and time-consuming. Although yard work can be overwhelming at times, the steps to a great-looking lawn are easier than you think. 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

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

Moving this summer? Navigate the peak season like a pro

Summer is busiest time of the year for home and business moves. In fact, an estimated 65 percent of the 43 million Americans who are moving this year will do so in the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. What does that mean for those with a move in the immediate future? Cut down on the stress and try some simple tips to make moving a breeze. 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

Go green and live comfortably all year long

Milder temperatures and longer days mean winter is fast becoming a distant memory. However, environmentally conscious homeowners know that the arrival of warmer weather also means the likelihood of increased air-conditioner use and higher energy bills. 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

Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 10 Americans is living with diabetes and one in three adults could have diabetes by 2050. While every case requires an individual treatment plan, with the right attitude and management, people living with diabetes have an opportunity to overcome the challenges they face. Read More

Tips and tools to prepare for power outages

Storms have been packing big punches in recent years. While the debate about the cause might rage on, so do the natural elements that wreak havoc on private homes and public infrastructure. As has been seen in recent years, the aging of the American power grid has resulted in extended power outages - and that increasingly seems that this will be the new norm. However, going without power for long periods of time is non-negotiable for many Americans. Read More

Looking for a greener way to clean your pool?

There's no better way to enjoy the summer than by lounging by the pool. Unfortunately, this backyard family oasis requires regular maintenance throughout the summer that can include expensive and sometimes unhealthy chemicals. Have you ever wished there was an easier way you could clean your pool, that was also more eco-friendly? 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

Expert tips and affordable tricks for planning summer parties

Warm sun, fresh air, soft grass - the summer season is the perfect reason to plan a festive gathering with friends and family. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply spending time with the special people in your life, a few tips and tricks can help you plan a fun party without breaking the bank. Read More

Get organized to help grow your business

Small businesses are always trying to find ways to get organized so employees can work more efficiently and save money in the process. With tax time just around the corner and projects opening and closing on a daily basis, taking your business organization standards to a new and improved level might seem like a huge undertaking. Read More

Tech talk: Understanding 'the cloud' and what it can do for you

News headlines, commercials and chatter between colleagues - recently there has been a lot of hype around "the cloud," but the term can be complex and confusing. What exactly is the cloud, and furthermore, what does it mean for you and the way you use technology? Although the concept feels relatively new, it's simpler than you may think. Read More

Four fast, easy kitchen projects you can complete this weekend

Minor kitchen updates can result in enhanced appearance, enjoyment and increased home value. With a free weekend and a modest budget, you can accomplish some do-it-yourself projects that will give your kitchen a whole new look. Read More

Make your summer sizzle

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

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

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

2013's hottest home trends and easy upgrades

The top home decor trends for 2013 are already emerging, and homeowners seeking a fresh look will find a lot to love. Not only can these looks be accomplished in minimal time - they're budget friendly and easy enough for DIYers to finish in a weekend or less. Read More

Four hot, new-home trends that can work for your remodel

If you're planning to renovate your home, you can tap some of the hottest trends showing up in new-home designs. Here are four new-home trends that offer strong returns on your time and money. Read More

Expert advice for smart investing strategies

After five years of market volatility, recession and uncertainty, markets in the U.S. are showing signs of life. Leading indexes are now approaching all-time highs, and many individuals are taking a fresh look at their investment plans. But with the sting of recent losses and swings still fresh in mind, now is a good time to consider a new investment approach. If you're looking for long-term results in unpredictable market conditions, a few guidelines from the experts may help. Read More

Three ways to bring added entertainment to your outdoor experiences

There's a reason it's called the "great" outdoors. Nothing can quite compare with the beauty and majesty of wild places. When summer rolls around, the urge to explore grows for many people, inspiring millions of travelers to camp, hike and tour the country's natural wonders. Modern outdoor enthusiasts have discovered that technology makes it even more fun to spend time in off-the-beaten-track locations. Read More