Lifestyle Trends



  Lifestyle & Trends - How To

Tips for making your spring cleaning a breeze

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.

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Preserving our planet: How to celebrate the environment every day

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.

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Warm-weather entertaining made easy with expert tips and recipes

Warm-weather entertaining made easy with expert tips and recipes Warmer temperatures often mean a busier social calendar. So whether you're planning a meal to enjoy al fresco, or whipping up a sweet treat for a neighborhood block party, it's a great time of year to experiment in the kitchen. But when you're trying out a new recipe, do you hesitate when it calls for certain ingredients? Check out these expert tips to learn alternatives that taste great and are good for you too.

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

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.

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How to support your friend in a split

How to support your friend in a split When a marriage ends in divorce, it's not just the couple who is involved. Friends and family members are also part of the process and often play many different parts. Support can make a critical difference to your friend, but unfortunately, doesn't come with how-to manual.

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Knowing your risks for type 2 diabetes

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.

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

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

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Busted: The top 4 most common pet myths

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.

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Your first resume - dos and don'ts

Your first resume - dos and don'ts If you're heading out into the workforce for the first time, there's plenty of prep work to do. An employer's first impression of you could very well be your resume. Here are some tips that might help.

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A tech refresh: Top reasons to buy a new PC

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

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

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.

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How to freshen up your spring cuisine

How to freshen up your spring cuisine For food fanatics, spring is the perfect time of year to add fresh produce back into your recipes and meals. Using seasonal ingredients can really help capture and enhance the flavors of spring and bring your cuisine to life. Whether you're using first yields from your garden or visiting the farmers market as soon as it opens, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the season.

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Spring fling must-haves

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.

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What to look for in your next smartphone

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

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Tips for managing your career on social media

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

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Three tips to save time spring cleaning

Three tips to save time spring cleaning It's that time of year - throw the windows open and refresh your house with a good, deep clean. Americans spend nearly 70 hours cleaning their homes each year, according to a recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Get your time back with three easy tips to make the process fast and stress-free.

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What to look for when buying a zero-turn mower

What to look for when buying a zero-turn mower Ever wonder how those lawn-care guys get so much done in a day? They use zero-turn radius mowers that can significantly trim the time and effort involved in cutting grass. If you have a large yard to cut, a zero-turn mower can make your task quicker and easier.

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Rattling down the highway? What those common car noises mean

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.

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Responsible ridership and safety are the first steps toward personal watercraft fun

Responsible ridership and safety are the first steps toward personal watercraft fun One of the easiest and most fun ways to enjoy everything the water has to offer is on a personal watercraft (PWC). Personal watercrafts have taken great strides toward modernization; the PWCs of today are quiet, run on clean four-stroke technology engines, include significant safety features, are more stable, and are designed to accommodate up to three passengers.

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Protect your information during the tax-season identity theft boom

Protect your information during the tax-season identity theft boom Tax season can be stressful, and each year people scramble to send in their tax returns, right down to the deadline. But for those who do a little preparation and avoid procrastinating, it can be significantly less tense. However, whether you're a last-minute rusher or an ahead-of-the-game planner, you need to take steps to protect your identity during tax time, or you could be facing the greatest stress of all.

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Five environmentally friendly ways to keep your lawn looking great

Five environmentally friendly ways to keep your lawn looking great Maintaining the perfect lawn is easier than you think and with the right tools, you can be both efficient with your yard work and eco-conscious. If it's lush green turf that you're after, but you also care about your carbon footprint, there are a few tools and practices that can help you have it both ways.

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

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

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Make your house look like a 'million dollar listing' for less

Make your house look like a 'million dollar listing' for less A new report reveals houses are selling faster and for more money, yet another indicator of a rebounding housing market. This will challenge sellers to sharpen their competitive edge as more homeowners, encouraged by promising indicators, put their house on the market. Josh Altman, one of the top 10 realtors in the country and star of Bravo's hit TV show "Million Dollar Listing: L.A.," shares three strategies for making houses more desirable to buyers.

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Choosing the right financial products for all stages of life

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

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Why going gluten-free doesn't mean going grain-free

Why going gluten-free doesn't mean going grain-free It's impossible to stroll the aisles in your local supermarket without seeing package after package labeled "gluten-free." But who really needs a gluten-free diet, and what does it mean to convert your daily diet to be gluten-free?

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

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.

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Five must-haves for your new truck

Five must-haves for your new truck With a brand new truck decorating your driveway, you've probably got plenty of ideas of how you're going to use it for towing a boat, transporting large and heavy loads and conquering rugged terrain. Or maybe you just want to feel powerful while driving it down the road. But before you get too comfortable, think about what could make your truck even better. What can you add that will help your truck last longer, handle more tasks and look even stronger?

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

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.

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Give your small business a social facelift

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

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Boarding your four-legged family member

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.

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Summer garden glory without the weeding and watering

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.

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Solid retirement planning a must for Generations X and Y

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

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Getting married this summer? Tips for combining all your stuff

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?

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Backyard trends: Save money installing your own vinyl fence

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

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

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

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

Spring is the time to shed your winter layers, dust off the cobwebs, open the windows and embrace the beginning of a new season. Aside from spending more time outdoors, the sunshine and warm weather often energize us to do the things we put off during the cold winter months, such as cleaning and organizing.

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

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.

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Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life

Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life In 2012, there were more than 115,000 people in the U.S. awaiting an organ transplant - enough to overflow the country's largest football stadium. Each year, more than 28,000 Americans receive a donated organ, but sadly, more than 6,500 people die each year waiting for an organ. It is, however, a problem with a solution - one that depends a lot on education and selflessness. Are you registered as an organ donor? Here is what you need to know.

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Tips for setting up your home theater viewing space

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.

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The 5 money habits that can help you find true wealth

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.

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Set yourself up for the perfect season of outdoor entertaining

Set yourself up for the perfect season of outdoor entertaining As temperatures warm, many of us can't wait to get outside and rediscover the joys of our outdoor spaces. One of the best ways to ensure the enjoyment of your space all season long is with some spring cleaning and upkeep of your yard and outdoor living spaces.

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Make your summer sizzle

Building project tips to ensure a successful and smooth build

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.

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Save money and do a world of good with reusable containers

Save money and do a world of good with reusable containers Even as the country moves out of the great recession, many Americans are still in a money-saving mode - looking to conserve wherever possible.

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Simple ways to save water, money and your landscaping this summer

Simple ways to save water, money and your landscaping this summer With many states facing drought this summer, homeowners across the country will be looking for ways to save their landscaping while conserving water at the same time. Even if you're not in a drought-affected area, it pays to keep conservation in mind when it comes to watering outdoors. Using less water is good for the environment and your wallet.

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Entice buyers into your home with aromatic scents

Entice buyers into your home with aromatic scents When a home smells good, it makes a favorable impression on visitors. This is exactly what home sellers want when they put their house on the market.

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Financial planning insights for the LGBT community

Over the last decade, many companies have paid increasing attention to the buying power and consumer habits of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) market. But until recently, little attention has been focused on the financial experience of LGBT individuals.

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Deductions that could dramatically cut your tax bill

For all the talk about taxes during the "fiscal cliff" debate at the end of 2012, many people are still left wondering what it means to them as the April 15 filing date approaches. Here are 10 ways you can cut your tax bill and maximize your return.

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Housetraining your puppy: Tips for keeping your dog behaved and your home clean

Housetraining your puppy: Tips for keeping your dog behaved and your home clean Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new puppy. Whether chihuahua or Great Dane, a pup's playful antics delight people of all ages. Having a dog can bring many years of companionship and precious memories, but before you ask, "How much is that doggie in the window?" consider a few expert tips for positive housetraining.

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Give your home a fresh look with color

Give your home a fresh look with color A fresh coat of paint can give any room an instant lift, making it a great solution for converting a space from drab to fab.

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Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down

Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest - setting health goals is a great first step. Sticking to those aspirations doesn't have to be difficult or stressful. Just follow a few expert tips and you'll look and feel great in no time.

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Staying at the top of your game

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.

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New technologies offering hope for those with tinnitus - or ringing in the ears

New technologies offering hope for those with tinnitus - or ringing in the ears If you experience a constant ringing in your ears that's bothersome at best and debilitating at worst, you are far from alone. Tinnitus affects roughly one in five Americans and about 16 million people have serious tinnitus that requires medical attention. It's also the most common disability for military veterans, since it can be caused by extended exposure to loud noise.

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

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

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The surprising ingredient that makes favorite recipes tastier and healthier

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.

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Aging-in-place upgrades that look great and make sense

Aging-in-place upgrades that look great and make sense Do the words "aging in place" and "home improvement" conjure images of institutional-looking grab bars in bathrooms and overhead kitchen lights that could illuminate an airport runway? Here are a handful of aging-in-place upgrades that shout "fabulous" instead of "fogey."

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Brooke Burke-Charvet takes on a challenge for allergy relief

Brooke Burke-Charvet takes on a challenge for allergy relief For many, spring's warmer weather is welcomed with spending more time outside. But for allergy sufferers, the season can mean facing symptoms that make them look and feel bad.

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Chef-inspired tips for a cleaner, more efficient kitchen

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.

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

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.

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Five fast fixes and tips for a summer-ready car

Five fast fixes and tips for a summer-ready car With summer just around the corner, it's time to get your car in tip-top shape to withstand hot days and long road trips. Summer driving requires your car to run differently; some adjustments and inspections are important to ensure your vehicle lasts season to season. Follow these five fast fixes and inspections to cruise through the summer and avoid roadside headaches.

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Color, texture and more: Vinyl continues to be America's most-installed siding

Color, texture and more: Vinyl continues to be America's most-installed siding While vinyl siding has historically been the most-used siding material in the U.S., its continuing advancements are allowing even more choice when it comes to two critical qualities desired by homeowners: outstanding curb appeal and low maintenance. Add to this to the growing interest by homeowners to save energy and the increasing green measures being taken by builders, and insulated vinyl siding stands out as a versatile choice.

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Take control and mitigate mold growth in your home

Take control and mitigate mold growth in your home Damp, dark areas of the home, such as an unfinished basement, can often be trouble spots for homeowners hoping to increase their living space. Left unfinished, these areas of the home can potentially suffer significant damage, be prone to flooding or develop mold. When it comes to home improvement, homeowners are wise to consider the affects of moisture and mold buildup and how they can be combated.

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Top three reasons to find your banking bliss

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

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Whitewashed floors complement lively decorating trends

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.

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Eight easy ways to organize - and maximize - a small bath

Eight easy ways to organize - and maximize - a small bath The bath serves a variety of uses, from a functional room to a serene sanctuary, a storage facility to a salon. And, whether you enjoy it yourself or share with the family, every bathroom is in need of one major thing - organization. To help keep your bath feeling more serene and less insane, follow these eight ideas to help improve your organization, maximize space and even add a bit of style.

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Ask the Pharmacist: Controlling asthma during allergy season

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

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Stylish stairs: Five can-do ideas that add personality

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

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How to ace your next job interview

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

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Backyard oasis planning made easy

Backyard oasis planning made easy Hooray for a holiday. You've got the day off, you've sent out the backyard barbecue invite and all your nearest and dearest are coming over to eat, drink and be merry. So, what's next? Whether you're a seasoned entertaining pro or a new host,here are some tips to make your backyard an oasis for a long holiday or any weekend.

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How to be the buyer every seller wants to deal with

How to be the buyer every seller wants to deal with If you're shopping for a home this spring and summer, chances are you'll face increased competition from other buyers. So how do you ensure you not only land the home of your dreams, but get the best possible price from the seller and the best possible mortgage deal from your lender? By becoming the buyer every homeowner wants to sell to - a financially stable, credit-worthy, pre-approved purchaser.

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Got student debt? How your credit affects more than just borrowing power

Got student debt? How your credit affects more than just borrowing power If you're a recent college graduate, chances are you left school with more than just a diploma. You're probably carrying debt, as well. You may already know how debt affects your future borrowing power, but it's important to also understand how credit impacts other areas of your financial life, as well - such as how easily you'll be able to rent an apartment when you leave home.

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Tips for motorcycle riders: Hit the road and ride responsibly

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

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Select the right insurance for your home-based business

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.

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

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

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Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always

Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always Sunnier skies and summertime fun are just around the corner, and with them comes plenty of outdoor activities like longs days at the playground, sporting events and barbecues. With so many options, the last thing most people want to think about is household responsibilities … but all that outdoor fun can add up to a lot of laundry.

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Creating the perfect sleep environment this spring

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.

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Renew yourself and your home in four easy steps

Renew yourself and your home in four easy steps Your home can find new life when the weather warms. The transition of seasons is a perfect opportunity to refocus on improving yourself and your space.

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2013 tax season tips

It's tax season and, as always, there are many new rules that can create traps for the unwary. But with a few tips and tricks, you can help minimize your taxes and maximize your overall long-term financial position.

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Educate yourself before starting the path to a new career

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

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Tips for new Mother's Day and Father's Day traditions

Families have many special traditions to celebrate Mother's Day and Father's Day. Starting new traditions is also common. If your family is looking for some new ways to enjoy Mother's Day or Father's Day this year, check out these tips and gift ideas that will help make your celebrations special.

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Get organized to help grow your business

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.

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

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.

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Sure-grow guidance for first-time gardeners

Sure-grow guidance for first-time gardeners Most of us want that home-grown, healthy goodness that veggie and herb gardens provide, but sometimes it's hard to figure out just where to begin. Gardening can be easy if you start with these six simple steps.

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Selling your home? Make it more appealing to buyers

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?

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Five tips for spring home decorating 'eco-style'

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.

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Tips and tools to prepare for power outages

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A guy's guide to being smooth [Infographic]

Easy ways to make a difference this summer

Easy ways to make a difference this summer Summer provides a much needed break for families and a perfect opportunity to make a difference in the community. Depending on interest and time, there are many different ways to get involved or make a charitable contribution.

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

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How to find the right vet for your pet

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

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The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle

The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle Even with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it's important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house.

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Expert tips and affordable tricks for planning summer parties

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.

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Get ready to spice up summer meals

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

The most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a home improvement contractor and how to avoid them Consumer complaints and lawsuits regarding home improvements are on the rise according to Ripoff Reports; a homeowner that does not do their homework before embarking on a project could find themselves with poor workmanship, inferior products, health and safety issues or even legal problems.

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

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Cleaning the right way to remove allergens

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Get your car road trip ready for spring

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

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

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.

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Salty snacks reduce stress

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