 | Don't let holiday shopping stress you out
While finding the right gift for everyone on your list may never be easy, finding the best price on a gift has never been easier. Here are a few tips to making the holiday-shopping season just a little less stressful. |
 | Five tips to stay warm and reduce energy costs
As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home's energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter. |
 | Five handy apps for the festive season
The holiday season is full of festivities from children's plays to office parties to checking off shopping lists. That means many consumers are multitasking. Never fear, there are an array of apps for both the iPad and smartphones to help you accomplish your seasonal tasks on the go. |
 | Red hot holiday food trends for 2011
As the weather cools, our holiday culinary adventures heat up. From planning the perfect holiday dinner menu to discovering new, destined-to-become-favorites cookie recipes, we all spend a lot of time thinking about great food at this time of year. If you're looking for some new food traditions to warm up to, here are 10 Red Hot Holiday Food Trends for 2011 |
 | Tips for shopping smarter this holiday season
This year, shoppers are expected to take a different approach to holiday shopping, preferring gifts that provide long-term real value versus those that provide an immediate, but short-lived "wow" effect. Consider these tips for giving heartfelt, meaningful gifts that can fit into any budget. |
 | The tastes of the season - savory, sweet, traditional and scrumptious
The holiday season is fast approaching - and this year there are some new tastes joining traditional favorites to tempt even the most temperamental palates. |
 | Five ideas for practical yet fun gifts for kids
The building anticipation, the frantic ripping of wrapping paper and the discovery of what those colorful packages hold - holidays and birthdays are great times to be a kid. But as any parent can attest, gifts received during holidays sometimes end up gathering cobwebs in the following months. While it's fun to go for novelty items that catch a child's attention when they are opened, giving the children in your life something that will truly stand the test of time will be much appreciated by both child and parent alike. |
 | The SMART way to make financial New Year's resolutions
If your resolutions this year address money matters like savings, spending and credit use, you can improve your chances of success by making "SMART" promises to yourself. Here are a few ideas for applying self-improvement principles to your financial resolutions. |
 | Winter weather especially harsh for those with diabetes
More than 26 million Americans have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. If you or a loved one have the disease, it's important to remain vigilant against complications year-round, and especially during the winter when feet are exposed to cold and remain covered up for extended periods. |
 | Impress your guests with holiday etiquette 101
You've spent the entire day in the kitchen cooking the perfect holiday meal. But it's an hour before your guests arrive and you find yourself standing in front of the table listening to that little nagging voice inside your head asking questions about how to set the table. Here are tips from an etiquette expert. |
 | Garden accents for the holidays
As autumn fades and winter draws near, homes begin to reflect the approaching holiday season. For many of us, the cooler weather also signifies a lifestyle change. |
 | Maximize your melting this winter
Snow typically starts falling across the U.S. in November, according to the National Weather Service. In 2010 more than one-third of the country was covered with powdery flakes by Thanksgiving. It's during this time people flock to the store to pick up shovels and snow blowers. Yet, one of the most versatile snow safety tools consumers have in their winter arsenal is ice melt. |
 | Blend up a no-fuss, festive recipe for holiday entertaining
The holidays are here. For many that means it's time to pull out the best serving platters and the tastiest recipes for entertaining special holiday guests. Does contemplating your holiday party or dinner menu make you anxious? Don't fret. Today's technology is making it easier for you to quickly and easily prepare festive recipes that will bring good cheer to your guests. |
 | Making the most of your holiday celebrations
As 2011 begins to wind down, the hectic holiday season is only getting started. This time tends to be packed with fun and holiday cheer, but the last thing you want is to be partied out too early. Pacing yourself and not getting overwhelmed by the endless gatherings (and dessert trays) is essential. Here are a few easy tips to help make sure that you're enjoying this season to the fullest and truly celebrating a great year. |
 | Celebrate the holidays with travel deals and discounts
The holiday season is the perfect time to hit the road and celebrate with loved ones, but travel expenses tend to skyrocket around this busy time of year. With a bit of planning and research, there are many easy ways to save on travel, lodging and activities around the holidays. |
 | Winter warriors make roadways safer and keep us moving
It's fall. It's getting colder, the leaves are falling and winter is looming. Most likely, you haven't given much thought to the road crews who are working this fall, preparing equipment and resources in order to keep roads clear and safe this winter. |
 | How to hit the slopes on a budget
Planning a ski trip starts with answering these three questions: What mountain should I ski/snowboard? Where should I stay while I'm there? And how much am I willing to spend on lift tickets and equipment rental? A ski excursion can easily cost a traveler thousands of dollars, but consumers who are frugal can get by on about $150 a day per a person without sacrificing creature comforts. Here are some money-saving strategies for planning this season's ski trip. |
 | Try adding a twist to your holiday staples this year
We look forward to the holidays for many reasons, and the food is often near the top of the list. But while traditional holiday dishes are a familiar comfort that everyone in the family can look forward to, there's no harm in adding a slight twist to your staples to give them a gourmet touch. |
 | Shopping online? 10 tips to avoid ID theft this holiday season
The holidays are approaching and it's time to start shopping for those special gifts. Last year, consumers spent a holiday-season record $32.6 billion online, according to comScore. Unfortunately, with so much personal financial information out there, instances of identity theft are on the rise. Here are 10 tips to better protect your identity when shopping online this holiday season. |
 | Smart holiday gift ideas that make busy lives easier
As the holiday season approaches, many people start wondering how they're going to get everything done. From shopping for gifts and decorating the house to hosting parties and visiting relatives - and more - the list feels endless. And adding all of these things to an already hectic lifestyle can seem next to impossible. |
 | Seasonal sense: Using scent, sight and sound to stimulate holiday spirits
From baking cookies with loved ones to caroling through the neighborhood or celebrating with family and friends, fond memories of holiday traditions abound. Each year, scents, sights and sounds promote the season's spirit - continuing long-standing traditions and creating new memories. |
 | Transforming holiday leftovers into mouthwatering meals
Gathering with friends and family for special meals is a beloved part of the fall and winter holidays. Spending time preparing dishes that everyone looks forward to somehow feels less like a chore and more like a tradition during this time of year. And, of course, you don't want anyone to go away hungry, so the amount of food that comes out of your kitchen is usually nothing short of monumental. |
 | Holiday shopping? How to deter identity thieves during the holidays
Like the song says, little things mean a lot, especially during the holidays. A greeting card with a heartfelt, handwritten note, a tin of homemade cookies - these simple gestures speak of the holiday spirit. During the holidays, the little things you do - or don't do - can also mean a lot when it comes to protecting yourself from identity theft. |
 | Budget-friendly tips and tricks for easy entertaining
Whether entertaining throughout the season or inviting your closest friends and family over for an evening of fun, every host strives to impress their guests. But sometimes the stress and steep costs of shopping, cooking and entertaining can derail plans of being the hostess with the mostess. This year, use a few simple tips and tricks to make your gatherings special, memorable and affordable. |
 | Staying green for the holidays
Winter is quickly approaching and the holidays are in full swing once again. Gift-giving, parties, baking goodies and being with loved ones are great fun, but can often lead to waste and excess. This year, try celebrating using a few green ideas and give yourself and Mother Earth a gift. |
 | Give the gift of U.S. Savings Bonds
Buying U.S. Savings Bonds for loved ones has been a holiday tradition for more than 75 years and is a unique part of our nation's history. |
 | Smarter snow removal options
Who could forget the challenges of last winter? The 2010/2011 winter season went down in the record books as one of the coldest and snowiest for many parts of the United States. Unfortunately, in looking at forecasts for the coming winter season, it appears that many Americans may again be facing the same challenge. The good news, despite the dismal forecast, is that there are more and better choices when it comes to snow removal options today. |
 | Refresh your New Year's resolution by drinking more water
We're told that drinking water is good for our health. But do we really know why? To get the new year off to a healthy start, here are four reasons why staying hydrated can help you reach your health and lifestyle goals. |
 | Five tricks for celebrating the holidays with smart and satisfying choices
Just because the holidays include decadent indulgences, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the celebrations and treats you love. Here are five tips and tricks to keep your taste buds rejoicing and your holidays delightful. |
 | Tips for smooth and successful holiday travel
Planning a surprise visit to Grandma and Grandpa for the holidays or a family trip to celebrate the new year? Holiday travel can be stressful, but with some careful planning, it can be full of joy, instead of headaches. Check out these holiday travel tips to help you get through this busy time with ease. |
 | Blast away the 'Mom, I'm bored' winter break blues
Winter break from school used to mean a few lazy weeks spent indoors until boredom hit. This holiday season, parents can transform their family's winter break blues into excitement by offering children what they crave - fun and engaging activities that will keep their minds active. |
 | Home how-to for the simple fixer
Eventually, that household project that you have been putting off cannot be avoided any longer. But if you're like most homeowners, you will quickly give up on the DIY route and settle for something less daunting, like calling in a professional. |
 | Great gifts for teens for around $20
How can you give your teens gifts they really want without breaking the bank? Here are a few fun gift or stocking stuffer ideas that are sure to please your teen and your wallet alike. |
 | 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. |
 | Is this the year you change your career?
When you evaluate your current situation and set goals for the future, do career goals top the list? If so it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Why not make 2012 be the year you get your new career underway? |
 | Put your mental health first during the holidays
The holiday season is a chance to reconnect with friends, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of gift shopping. For the millions of Americans living with bipolar disorder, the holidays can also be a time to focus on themselves and how to best manage the condition going into the new year. |
 | Achieve winter home comfort
If you're a homeowner, you probably know that home winterization is essential if you want to increase energy efficiency and comfort during the winter. In addition to the usual quick fixes, there are a few important tasks to keep in mind when preparing both the interior and exterior of your home for the harsh weather ahead. |
 | Make your home ready for the holidays with easy, affordable decor updates
Welcoming friends and family into your home is one of the best ways to celebrate the season. One of the keys to making visitors feel right at home is to be a happy host. So, do yourself - and your guests - a favor and put a little effort into getting your home holiday houseguest perfect. |
 | Holiday travel tips: Keep bed bugs out of the fun
The holidays are a time for celebration, gift-giving and visiting with family and friends. Travel wisely this winter to ensure that you do not bring any unwanted visitors, such as bed bugs, back home with you. |
 | Find the perfect snow thrower for you
With only a few weeks until the official start of winter, now is the perfect time to choose a snow thrower before the blizzards hit. With so many options on the market, which one is right for you? |
 | Creating a spooktacular Halloween for your family
Halloween is a time for crazy costumes, ghost stories, sugar-buzzed kids and all things that go bump in the night. While the average American is expected to spend over $70 on Halloween this year, you don't have to break the bank to have a spooktacularly fun holiday. |
 | A guide to the best ice melters for tough winters
Most homeowners reach for rock salt to clear their driveways and sidewalks during winter. It's economical and reliable, and it easily melts ice in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit to keep driveways and sidewalks clear and safe. But when the temperature dips lower, salt alternatives such as magnesium chloride or calcium chloride offer increased melting power. But do you know the differences between these two options? |
 | It's not too late for a flu shot: What you may want to know
Pharmacies, doctors' offices and walk-in clinics - you have more opportunities than ever before to get that all-important annual flu shot. But if you'll be getting yours somewhere other than the doctor's office, you might wonder just who is giving you that shot and what that person's qualifications are. |
 | Get ready for the holidays with easy tips for around the house
'Tis the season for gathering and celebrating. If you're hosting a party or get together with family or friends, get your home party-ready in no time with these simple tips that will be a breeze to tackle. |
 | Winterize your wardrobe without the bulk
It's getting cold out again. Time to store away your summer frocks and bring out your favorite scarves, boots and layers. Women want to stay fashionable in the cooler seasons but they don't want to sacrifice their comfort. And why should they? Whether they're headed to work, watching a football game or enjoying a weekend outdoors, it's important to look great and feel fabulous. |
 | Warm up to cool-weather vacationing with these tips
Cooler weather doesn't mean your outdoor fun has to cool off too. Plenty of travel destinations, especially those in southern states, offer temperate climates and ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment throughout fall and into winter. |
 | The heat is on: Five getaways to kindle the romance
Romance is in the air. Whether you are celebrating Valentine's Day, planning a honeymoon, or just looking for a fun getaway with your better half, these trip ideas are guaranteed to ignite a spark. |
 | Rising expectations: Even in South, road crews know citizens demand speedy snow and ice removal
In the South, people now expect roads to be swiftly cleared of ice and snow. In northern climates, expectations have always been high, but are getting even higher as citizens realize impassable roads are not only a safety concern but an economic worry. |
 | How to protect your landscaping during the snow season
You work hard on your lawn and landscaping during the spring and summer. Now it's fall, and time to get ready for winter. But when winter actually gets here, what can you do to keep your landscaping healthy and attractive when the wind is howling, the ground is frozen, and snow and ice blanket your lawn and garden? |
 | Tax resolutions for the new year
It might be coincidental that the new year and the beginning of tax season arrive so close together. Many people resolve to be wiser with their money in the new year, and it just so happens that being smart about your taxes is a good way to get started. |
 | 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. |
 | What you need to know when stomach flu strikes your home
With the stomach flu season upon us, parents know that the stomach flu could be lurking on any doorknob or shared toy. Unfortunately, what parents don't know could be making the symptoms of stomach flu worse for little ones. |
 | How to snack smart in 2012
Snacks - they can either be your worst dieting enemy or your new weight-loss best friend. The difference is all in the choices you make. This year, make it your resolution to learn how to snack smarter. To help, here are some tips to develop a healthier relationship with snacking. |
 | Three ways to a sustainably healthy New Year
New Year's Day will spur many people to resolve follow to healthier lifestyles in 2012, but how many will carry through with their pledges? The journey to better health is not as daunting as it may seem. Slight adjustments to your eating, sleeping and exercise habits can have a dramatic impact on your overall health. Focus on improving these three aspects, and you'll be well on your way to a healthier you. |
 | Five ways to stay upbeat and energized during the holidays
The true meaning of the holiday season can be overshadowed by the demands of preparations, but it shouldn't be. By planning ahead, taking care of yourself and making sure to spend quality time connecting with loved ones, you can stay upbeat and energized during the holidays. |
 | Tips to keep the holidays happy and healthy for asthma and allergy sufferers
The holidays can be particularly difficult for millions of allergy sufferers who visit family and friends and welcome guests into their homes. Here are some tips for minimizing allergy and asthma triggers in your home this holiday season. |
 | Charitable giving: Important tips for tax season
Charitable contributions are a great way to give back to those who need it most. Of course giving back is great for the soul, but it can also be good for the pocketbook, in the form of a tax deduction. When you begin tax preparations, keep those 2011 donations in mind. |
 | Tips for a beautiful holiday - even at the 11th hour
As holiday decor springs up and seasonal tunes begin to flood the airwaves, it's time to embrace the most wonderful time of the year. If you didn't line up on Black Friday, and decking the halls is something you typically save for the last-minute, not to worry. Lifestyle expert, celebrity stylist and television personality Robert Verdi shares his tips for putting together a beautiful and low-stress holiday. |
 | How to make your holiday event stand out
When you open your home to family and friends this holiday season, you want to give your guests the best impression possible. Here are a few things you can do to make your holiday event one to remember. |
 | Tips for creating meaningful new holiday traditions
Holidays are a great time to celebrate traditions with family and friends, and every family has unique activities they love to observe year after year. You can incorporate new traditions into the holidays to bring more memorable fun to your gatherings. |
 | Holiday gift-giving tips for the teen on your list
Shopping for the perfect gift for kids and teenagers can be tough. It's hard to know what they're going to like, especially without a "wish list" in hand as you head out to the stores. |
 | Creative ways to preserve family recipes and traditions
Whether families are around the corner or across the country, special memories and cherished traditions bring them together. From cooking favorite dishes to re-telling classic family stories, it's important to keep those traditions alive. |
 | How to find the right gift for the hard-to-please teen
Finding the perfect gift for teenagers can be a notoriously difficult task. Their likes and dislikes can often change within seconds based on the latest trends and fads. So how can you please even the most challenging-to-shop-for teen? Gift cards and cash work, but are also very impersonal. Here are a few gift ideas to satisfy even the pickiest teen. |
 | Last minute? Tips to handle your shopping list
Do you find yourself in the last-minute-gift-buying category this year? Maybe time got away from you, or you just don't know what to get for the gift recipients on your list. Even though the clock is ticking, the good news is there's still time to find great gifts with special deals attached. |
 | Top 2012 garden and lifestyle trends: cultivate the new good life with the power of plants
Besides beautifying our homes and gardens, plants play a vital role in our health and well-being. They elicit powerful positive emotions, revive neighborhoods, and influence everything from what we eat to life's milestones. Here are the top trends for 2012. |
 | Holiday hazards to avoid to help keep pets safe
The holiday season is filled with a frenzy of activities from decorating the house to baking sweets to gift buying and wrapping. Adding decorations to your mantel or front yard adds a festive look to your house, but pet owners should also take a moment during the busy decorating season to examine how they make the season bright - and safe - for their pets and families. |
 | Composting, crafts and cuisine: Using what's in your garden
The cooler temperatures and changing colors of fall draw many people outdoors to explore what nature has to offer. The summer harvest has made room for many cold weather crops for those in the north, and tomatoes are just beginning to blossom for those in the southwest. Regardless of where you live, the fall garden still offers a lot to be used and discovered. |
 | Valentine's Day gift-giving tips
Giving your significant other the right gift can make or break your Valentine's celebration. If you're also giving something to your best friend, mom and children, you may need a little help finding the perfect token. Erase some of frustration involved in finding the perfect gift and enjoy the holiday of love and romance with these great Valentine's gift-giving tips. |
 | Low-cost gamer gifts that keep on giving
Video gaming's popularity is at an all-time high - in fact, a recent study from Memorex shows four of five families have at least one gaming console in the home. This holiday season, skip a pricey console purchase and give your favorite gamer a gift that keeps on giving. Here are four gift options under $25 that won't break your budget and will keep video game fans entertained well into the new year. |
 | Tips to prepare your auto for winter travel
The cold snap has arrived and the stormy winter days and dark evenings are here. It is time to prepare your car for the winter months to minimize the risk of a breakdown. Such breakdowns could be avoided by carrying out regular checks, so motorists are advised to follow these steps to minimize the risk. |
 | A flu prevention guide for the workplace
Flu season is upon us and that means runny noses, chills and body aches. For a small business and its employees, that can mean days spent home in bed or feeling sick in your office, which results in lost working hours. Did you know that flu costs businesses approximately $10.4 billion each year in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults? |
 | A different holiday perspective: It's the little things that matter most
The "magic" of the holiday season across the U.S. seems to arrive earlier and earlier each year, and so by late October, many store shelves are already stocked and awaiting excited shoppers. And although the holidays are undoubtedly a meaningful and special occasions for those in fortunate situations, it's easy to take for granted that family, gifts and a warm meal will be a part of the celebration. |
 | How to avoid scary heating bills this winter
This year's winter weather has been unpredictable, but homeowners can take a few simple steps now to ensure chilly temperatures and monthly heating bills don't take a bite out of their wallet.
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 | Great gifts for the holiday season
The holiday season is upon us. With your goal to wrap up all your holiday shopping by June long since passed, the pressure to find that impossibly perfect gift for everyone on your list now has an overbearing timestamp as well. But fear not, holiday shoppers. The following list of gift ideas and stocking stuffers is sure to make this year's holiday gift giving much less daunting and a lot more fun for both you and your loved ones. |
 | Giving green: Natural ways to spread holiday cheer
The holidays are a time for celebrating, reflecting on the past year and exchanging gifts with friends and family. However, unique and meaningful ideas can be a daunting task. Gifts that keep giving and growing are a perfect solution. Plants are not just beautiful, but also cheer up any space and even improve air quality in a home or office space. |
 | How you can help children of incarcerated parents during the holidays
Drug abuse. Divorce. Homelessness. Imprisonment. Little Forrest has witnessed them all. With his father in prison and his mom lost in a haze of drug abuse, Forrest's maternal grandparents took custody of him when he was just 2 years old. For Forrest, his dad's prison sentence seemed like a punishment for him, too. Learn how you can help other children like Forrest during the holiday season. |
 | Safeguard your privacy while shopping online this holiday season
With each passing year, more Americans turn to the Internet to do their holiday shopping. In fact, more than 52 million people shopped online from work during last year's holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. While many consumers are familiar with shopping online, it's still important to take some necessary precautions to protect your privacy. |
 | Easy tips for fast and fun snow removal
When you look outside, do the large piles of snow leave you dreaming of spring? Since winter isn't going anywhere any time soon, you might as well make the most of the snowy outdoors. When you need to remove snow from your driveway and walkways, some simple tips will make the task easier. You might even enjoy getting outdoors for bit to breathe the crisp air and delight in the wonderment of winter. |
 | Out-of-the-chocolate-box ideas for Valentine's Day treats
Valentine's Day usually brings to mind a box of chocolates for your sweetheart. As delicious as solid milk chocolate hearts and raspberry creams are, how about something a little different this year? |
 | Five must-make health-related New Year's resolutions
Losing weight is one of the most commonly made New Year's resolutions, but it's definitely not the only health resolution you should consider making for 2012. Addressing other health issues, like your hearing health and psychological well-being, can make equally compelling New Year's resolutions. Consider adding these ideas to your list. |
 | Simple ways to personalize your holiday decor
What do the holidays mean to you? It's a special time of year for many people, and many of us share similar tastes and traditions when it comes to how we decorate and celebrate. But if you're craving something different this year, personalizing your holiday decor can be a great way to put a fresh face on the season. |
 | Ease the stress of grocery shopping during busy winter months
Hectic schedules, combined with unpredictable winter weather, often make meal-related decisions a chore. Affordable and simpler shopping routines could help you start savoring family meal time again. |
 | Ten holiday tips on gifting, entertaining and celebrating without the stress
The holidays are about seasonal traditions and making merry with family and friends, but sometimes it can be overwhelming to have so many events to attend and to-do lists to complete. As you plan celebrations and gift giving, forget the stress and consider these 10 tips to keep you organized, spirited, and best of all, relaxed and ready to enjoy the season. |
 | Tips for meeting your financial goals this year
The new year is a time for celebration, but it's also time for planning. For many Americans, that means reviewing your budget for the next year and setting some financial goals. As with any other goals, the key to achieving your financial goals is laying out a process that will ultimately lead you to success. |
 | What's up in the workplace this holiday season?
Keeping the season fun and festive at work can take on a lot of different forms. Staples.com recently surveyed close to 400 people through social media to find out what was going in their office this holiday season. Here's what people found to be the most important to them this year. |
 | Tips for safely clearing your driveway of snow
Winter will again deliver a wallop of heavy snow. Shoveling sends more than 11,000 adults and children to the hospital each year. Here are tips on how to clear your driveway safely. |
 | Keep fitness off your New Year's resolution list
You've vowed to get fit with the start of each New Year. This year don't. Why not? First, because resolutions don't work. Second, because fitness isn't something you start, it's something you live. Stop starting. Start living. |
 | Five ways to make entertaining easy
Whether hosting a meal for the family or an open house for the neighborhood, entertaining can be stressful. Here are some simple tips on how to make entertaining more enjoyable for all involved. |
 | On Valentine's Day, tradition beats tech for your sweetheart's gift
Like most things in modern life, romance has gone online. People update their love lives by setting their status to "in a relationship," "engaged" or "it's complicated" and online dating is now as common as getting set up by friends - if not more so. However, when it comes to telling your special someone how you feel about them on Valentine's Day, think traditional, rather than digital. |
 | Escape boredom and add some fun to winter break
Winter break is upon us and students of all ages have cast aside their textbooks, pencils and laptops for several weeks of homework and classroom-free fun. Though the break is a welcome change from the routine of classes and exams, it is all too easy to waste away the precious time off glued to the couch watching "Family Guy" reruns. Here are some fun and active ways to add some adventure to this year's winter break. |
 | Make your home glisten with sparkling new holiday craft ideas
It's time to don that holiday spirit and prepare your home for festivities. But do your tightened purse strings have you saying "bah humbug?" Luckily, creating exquisite holiday decor can be fun and cost-effective when you do it yourself. Here are a few amazing holiday craft ideas that are simple and sensational. |
 | Top five gifts for her under $50
Finding a perfect gift doesn't always mean spending a ton of cash. Whether it's a handy gadget, a fashion accessory or a day's worth of spa-quality pampering, the following gift ideas for women are all available for $50 or less. |
 | Five hot fitness tips for cold weather
Finding time for exercise during the hectic holiday months can be challenging. For many people, a fitness regime gets tossed out with the wrapping paper. This makes getting back into a consistent exercise routine for the New Year an essential but difficult battle. And during dark winter months, fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures can decrease motivation for even the most dedicated fitness buffs. |
 | Personalizing gives used vehicles that new-ride feel
Driving a shiny, new and powerful vehicle can be quite a thrill. Fortunately, you don't have to go into debt buying a new car or truck to get that feeling. With people holding on to their used vehicles longer, demand is growing for cost-effective, exciting ways to personalize automobiles. |
 | Tell diabetes 'not me' this winter and holiday season
Each winter, the cold weather and holiday festivities can bring special challenges to the nearly 26 million Americans living with diabetes - and the 79 million with prediabetes who are at grave risk of developing it. With the season fast approaching, experts caution people with diabetes and prediabetes to take extra care to avoid cold-related illnesses, stay physically active and maintain a proper diet during holiday gatherings and the long winter months. |
 | Personalize your greeting cards and gifts
Nothing says how much you value a person more than a personalized handcrafted card or gift. And making your own can be far easier on your budget than buying from the store. So consider putting your creative skills to the test. |
 | New destinations to ring in the new year
New York City and Las Vegas are perennial favorites for celebrating New Year's Eve. But a new year just begs for some new ideas, especially those that won't leave you in debt after the fireworks are over. |
 | Holiday recipes with a twist
The invitations are arriving. Office parties, family parties, school parties and the list goes on; it's a sign the holiday season is fast approaching. Here are some tips to make your season a little less stressful. |
 | Tips for easy, fun holiday entertaining
Entertaining friends and family during the holiday season is as customary as drinking eggnog and opening presents. These gatherings usually involve investigating new - and delicious - recipes, decorating the house to the hilt, building the perfect collection of holiday tunes to play and finding fun activities to keep everyone engaged throughout. The key to successful entertaining over the holidays is preparation. |
 | Put a healthier spin on favorite comfort foods
As the cool temperatures of fall and winter arrive, many people find themselves gravitating toward warming, rich foods. Many of those dishes are fondly remembered childhood favorites or even part of a longstanding family tradition. While those cozy comfort foods warm you, body and soul, it's no secret that many of them aren't the healthiest foods you could eat. But with a bit of creative cooking, you can put a more nutritious spin on beloved dishes - and still enjoy the comfort they bring. |
 | Tire tips for winter driving
As the weather outside gets frightful, now is a good time to make sure your vehicle's tires are prepared for snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Sixty-three percent of Americans are concerned about skidding and icy roadways as the thermometer's mercury drops, according to a recent survey. To ensure safety and peace of mind as you venture out on a snowy day, here are some tire tips to consider. |
 | Dating safety: Don't let them steal more than your heart
Plenty of people find love online every year, but when you're dating a stranger, it's important to take steps to ensure the only thing they steal is your heart. |
 | Have you made these six tax mistakes? How to avoid them this year
Tax time is a stressful time, even for the most prepared filer. And for the many people who aren't perfectly prepared when the season rolls around, each commercial, ad or sign that mentions tax preparation can be a painful reminder that the daunting task still lies ahead. |
 | Your New Year's resolution might be even more important than you think
Every January, many Americans make New Year's resolutions, many of them to improve their health in the new year. We change our diets, start exercising and make our annual doctors' appointments for physical check-ups. As you work toward a healthier you in 2012, here are some helpful tips to aid your discussion with your doctor. |
 | Make the holidays more fun with an ugly sweater party
Holiday parties can be tons of fun, but in all honesty, they can be trying, too. Whether you're circled around the chips and dip until your feet ache or stuck listening to Uncle Bob's fishing stories that you've heard 10 times before, the holiday spirit can quickly drain away when you're not having fun. If you want to make sure that your party is one that people will not just enjoy, but remember for years to come, throw an ugly sweater party. |
 | Tips for fun, safe winter frolics with Fido
Even the best behaved-dog can temporarily forget his manners when faced with the many distractions of going on a walk. When the ground is covered with snow and ice, Fido's momentary lapse can mean a nasty fall for you. Properly equipping yourself - and taking some safety precautions - can help ensure you stay on your feet, and that your walk remains enjoyable for both you and your best friend. |
 | Got holiday leftovers? Tips for safely savoring foods a second time around
When it comes to holiday leftovers, many of us secretly relish that slice of cold turkey or ham the next morning, and savor how reheating just enriches the flavor of those candied yams. Before you take that first bite, it's important to remember that proper care can help ensure the leftovers you love stay safe, edible and bacteria-free. |
 | Holiday shoppers: beware of 'budget fatigue'
The past few years have been hard on the American pocketbook - and psyche. Just when we think we see the light at the end of the recessionary tunnel, something happens to make us pull our belts a little tighter and dampen our spirits. Many of us have had to curtail spending for quite some time, and with the holiday season (read, shopping season) coming up fast, we're itching just to let go and spend like it's 1999. |
 | Jingle shells: How PEI mussels feed the holiday crowd
The holidays are upon us once more and along with office parties and caroling, the season also brings the joy of entertaining and feeding a crowd at home. While it may sometimes seem daunting to feed larger numbers of friends and family that may grace your home, try these delicious meal ideas for serving to all of your loved ones this season. |
 | Greet holiday guests with a warm, stylish, sensible home
Twinkling lights, fragrant wreaths and freshly baked cookies help set the stage, but holiday guests truly feel at home when you provide a warm, cozy environment. As you prepare yourself and your home for colder temperatures, look for energy-efficient products that offer energy savings blended with tasteful designs. By making smart decisions, you can be sensible, yet super stylish as cold weather, holidays and dear friends arrive. |
 | Take steps now to keep indoor air clean throughout winter
When the winter winds start to howl, it's a natural response to want to close your home up tightly. To stay warm and avoid wasting energy, you close the windows - or even seal them with window film -- find ways to stop air from leaking in through cracks and under doors, and then put your heating system to work. But when those instincts kick in, remember that what you're doing is sealing air inside your home. |
 | Great gifts for gadget lovers of all ages
Have someone on your holiday shopping list who can't get enough of the latest gadgets? While you might be thinking that it's tough to buy for someone who always seems to have the newest version of every type of hand-held device, shopping for these folks is easier - and less expensive - than you might think. |
 | Healthy eating advice for people with diabetes
Social gatherings, comfort food and even plans to just cook for yourself can be difficult for people watching their diet. For those with health issues such as diabetes, the dietary minefield of temptations can be especially troublesome. |
 | Spring's greatest showcase: the Centennial National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
There's nothing more beautiful than the coming of spring after a long winter. As grass grows green and the air warms, nature puts on a spectacular show that manages to impress year after year. Nowhere is spring's beauty more vibrantly on display than at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration in Washington, D.C. This year marks a storied and once-in-a-lifetime event, the 100 year anniversary of the arrival of Japanese flowering cherry trees in D.C.'s West Potomac Park. |
 | Authentic Tuscan tastes bring big holiday flavor
When Janelle Maiocco learned she was traveling to Italy last summer on an all-expenses paid trip through Tuscany, it was as though the chef and blogger were really just coming home. |
 | Winter habitats for the winged visitors
As temperatures fall and nature's food supply dwindles across the country, some birds will migrate to more hospitable areas while others will stay and tough it out. Regardless of where you live, the bird populations present in your area this winter could use your assistance. Attract and welcome these feathered friends to your backyard with a bird-friendly habitat. |
 | Preventing identity theft at tax time
You need to think about security and identity theft at tax time. Whether you file online or by mailing paper forms, your tax return contains a staggering amount of information about you. You need to protect that information at every step of the preparation and filing process. |
 | How small businesses can protect their floors and technology this winter
Snow, ice, wind and cold temperatures bring a host of problems that facility and IT managers must plan and prepare for ahead of the winter season. Not only do they need to consider the damaging effects that salt and sand have on flooring, but they should prepare for potential power outages that could impact their technology infrastructure. |
