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

Resolutions small business owners should keep all year long

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

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

Hot trends for spring home improvement projects

Warmer temperatures, green grass and increased daylight help shake off the winter blues and inspire home and yard improvements to spruce up your surroundings. Whether you're remodeling to stay put, or putting your home on the market, consider home improvement and design trends as you plan your renovation projects. 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

Daring creativity blooms in this season's floral decor

A little black dress, a great pair of jeans and a leather jacket - some styles never go out of fashion. Some elements of home decor share that same sense of timelessness, and none more so than a simple floral theme. Read More

How to brand your business and position it for success

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

Easy tips to create a relaxing experience at home

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

Tips for installing a vinyl fence the easy way

Chances are installing a backyard fence is a home project that makes you want to run for the hills. After all, who wants to rent power augers, dig deep holes, tear up the yard, remove excavated dirt and pour hundreds of pounds of concrete? Probably not you. The good news is that you can actually install a fence without all this hassle. Read More

Smart time- and energy-saving tips for every room in the house

Keeping your home beautiful, organized and running smoothly is a never-ending task. The chores from the kitchen unfold into the dining room, which spills into the living room, the bedrooms, bathrooms, laundry room and beyond. Once you've added it all up, the amount of time and energy you spend on housework - day to day and year to year - is staggering. 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

Keeping informed and educated about your health

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

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

Buying a car? Avoid these wrong turns

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

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

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

Protect workplace information to keep businesses, customers safe

What many people don't realize is that when they don't protect their company's confidential information at work, they're not just putting their employer, clients and customers at risk - they're endangering themselves and their co-workers too. Read More

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

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

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

Choose a certified installer to create curb appeal with confidence

Looking for a way to improve the curb appeal of your home? Re-siding your home with vinyl siding is a great investment because it never needs painting to maintain its beauty and durability. Once you've made the decision to re-side your home with vinyl siding, however, you need a qualified contractor to install it properly to ensure long-lasting curb appeal. Read More

Financial tips for new graduates

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

Top deck trends for summer 2012

It's that time of year when homeowners are lured outside by the warm, sunny weather. Is your outdoor space ready to be enjoyed to the fullest? If your deck or patio needs updating, catching up on the top design innovations and trends will help you create an inviting area that will add value to your home investment. 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

Flying 'Old Glory' this summer? How to do it right

Summer isn't just the season of baseball, barbecues, vacation and fresh produce. It's also flag season. Three of the country's most important patriotic holidays - Memorial Day, Flag Day and Independence Day - arrive with summer, and across the nation proud Americans will show their patriotism by displaying the American Flag. Here's a thumbnail review of the Flag Code's guidelines so you can be confident in all you do. Read More

Protect your identity as you would other valuables

What NASCAR can teach you about making marriage work

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

Step one in your car-buying adventure: Shape up your credit

It's likely you'll need to finance your vehicle purchase, especially if you're buying new. A good credit score can help reassure potential lenders that you'll be a good credit risk - and make them more inclined to offer you a lower interest rate for your auto loan. 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

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

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

Five lighting tips to make your everyday photos shine

Real estate: Tips on buying and financing your first home

For many younger Americans, the dream of owning their first home is alive and well. But for others, it's still an elusive dream. Whether you're ready now or will be down the road, buying your first home takes preparation. Here are some tips on how to get started. 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

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

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

Living green and eating clean

The trend of protecting the environment continues to gain momentum, and people everywhere are adopting more eco-friendly lifestyles. Within this movement, a growing number are taking a look at their diets and seeing how eating more natural foods can improve their health while minimizing the impact on the environment. Read More

The secret to successful dating: Know yourself first

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

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

Enjoy outdoor activities while keeping ticks and mosquitos away

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

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

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

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

Save money on your spring travel plans

The long winter months have everyone itching to get out and do something new. For many Americans, this means planning a much-needed vacation - away from winter, work and school. Read More

Practical 2-for-1 solutions for gardeners

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

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

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

Simple projects to spruce up the look of your home

As the days get longer and things get a little brighter inside your house, it becomes easier to notice the places that could use a little extra TLC. It's also the perfect time to work on simple home improvement projects as you wait for warm weather to come. Here's a checklist you can work on now so your home will be vibrant and welcoming once long summer days roll around. 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

How to get rid of deer before they devour your yard and garden

Deer are the poster critters of natural adaptability. As suburbia has encroached on their wild habitat, deer have adjusted easily, finding plenty to eat in residential landscapes. Several methods can be effective in deterring deer, including the use of repellents. 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

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

Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss

Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million American have hearing loss. Changing lifestyle habits, and treating a variety of health conditions can help to prevent hearing loss. Read More

Why it pays to be selective about home services

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

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

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

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

Seven ways to help jumpstart your retirement plan

Everyone knows that they should be putting away money for retirement, but for those who haven't started saving, it can seem like a daunting task. Even though you know you should be saving, it's possible that you haven't gotten around to contributing to your retirement plan because you don't think you have money to spare, or don't know where to start. Read More

Disability: What you don't know can hurt you

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

Why tax time is the perfect time to plan for retirement

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

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

Protecting personal information extends beyond the Web, to mobile devices

Shop sustainable: How to know which products are environmentally friendly

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

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

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

Game on! What games should kids play?

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

DIY insulation projects make for a more comfortable home year round

Do-it-yourself home improvement projects are more popular than ever, as homeowners are looking for simple, low cost ways to update their household and increase overall home efficiency. Kitchen upgrades and a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference aesthetically, but sometimes the most effective DIY projects happen in areas not always visible. 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

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

Experts' shopping secret: Use online reviews to be a smarter shopper

As a shopper, sometimes being first isn't the best idea. With all the easy access to online information, it's better to benefit from the advice of others before making purchase decisions. Read More

Homeowners' emphasis on energy efficiency grows.

Even in a volatile economy, homeowners are making home upkeep a priority. While the number of projects annually had been on the decline in recent years, a study from BuildFax, a resource for building, remodeling and repair information, found remodeling activity was up in 2011 over 2010. Additional data shows homeowners are opting to invest in what matters most with projects that benefit their wallets, personal comfort and the environment. Read More

For career success in today's tough economy learn the G.L.O.W. method

Good is just not good enough for many employers today. As companies look to do more with less, hiring managers are drawn to those job candidates who stand out from the crowd and clearly illustrate the value they bring to an organization. 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

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

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

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

Saving money top of mind for cloth-diapering families

Families across the U.S. are feeling a financial crunch. The financial pain can be especially hard when baby makes three. In fact, the average start-up cost for a new baby is more than $7,200 according to expert estimates. 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

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

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

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

What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision

For most people, selecting eyeglass frames is the highlight of the eye appointment and the lenses are seen as pieces of plastic or glass that don't involve a lot of buyer choice. But on the contrary, the best eyeglass lenses today are as hi-tech as any smartphone, and the visual difference between adequate lenses and great lenses can be as pronounced as the difference between a standard TV and your new HDTV. Once you've experienced the latter, you'll never want to watch TV the old way again. 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

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

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

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

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

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

U.S. foster care population continues to decline

There are more than 400,000 children in foster care across the United States, according to the most recent report released by AFCARS (Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System). This is a sobering number. The encouraging news is that this number continues to decline - down more than 8 percent from 2008, and nearly 30 percent from 1999, when there were nearly 570,000 foster children. One primary reason for that decrease is the implementation of proactive social service programs. Read More

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

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

Choose the right homeowner's insurance for your lifestyle

Are you a first-time home buyer? An established homeowner? An empty nester? Whatever stage of life you're in, it pays to make sure you have the right insurance - and you're not paying for coverage you don't need. Read More

How your smartphone can help you care for your car

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

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

Tips to keep your vehicle safe and looking great this summer

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

Five money-saving moves for smartphone users

Smartphones are quickly gaining in popularity. With a virtual world in the palm of users' hands, they can easily access email, social networking sites, news, videos, music, images, files, mapping and more. While the possibilities may seem endless, consumers should consider one limit: their budgets. Taking a few precautions can help keep costs under control. Read More

Just the right size: How to shop online

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

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

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

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

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