Saturday, July 31, 2010  
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Simple, sophisticated snacks and drinks for summer
Summer is the season for entertaining, but there isn't any reason you have to slave away in a hot kitchen in order to throw a sophisticated summer party.
 
Put a gloomy, dreary day to good use: prep your deck
Now is the time to get outside and prepare outdoor living spaces for the entertainment season. While sunny days are perfect for fertilizing the lawn, planting flowers and laying mulch, don't waste those gray, overcast days, which are great for other DIY projects. One task that can be tackled on a dreary day is prepping and cleaning your deck for upcoming barbecues and get-togethers.
 
Seven tips to keep your digital camera working great
Although many people enjoy using digital cameras, few realize the importance of cleaning and maintaining them. Digital camera prices have fallen, but they are still investments that need to be cared for and protected.
 
Do you have the right tools for your "honey-do" list?
It's summer and there's no better time to take on home improvement projects and that ever-expanding "honey-do" list. In a few months, those tasks will seem a lot more unpleasant when they can't be done in the beautiful sunshine.
 
Practical meets pretty: Container gardening for beauty and bounty
Container gardening is a great alternative for people who don't have the time or space for a full garden or flowerbed. Often, however, container gardeners may feel they have to choose between beauty and practicality. When you can only plant so many containers, what do you fill them with - flowers or veggies?
 
A resurgence of the DIY spirit
While economic factors have slowed consumer spending in the home improvements category in recent years, new reports, including one from the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, show homeowners are planning to invest in their homes once again.
 
Four ways to improve your home's beauty and resale value
In a tough housing market, homeowners want to improve their home's beauty and functionality, while adding resale value. This may include choosing products that reduce maintenance, save energy, improve appearance and offer protection from the damaging forces of nature. Here are some tips for problem areas that could benefit from the latest home solutions.
 
Don't let your first road trip with friends turn into a nightmare
Have you been on your first road trip yet? If not, you may want to think about planning one soon. Summer is here, the weather is terrific and your first road trip is like a rite of passage, something you have to do at least once in your lifetime. Why not now?
 
Cooking more at home? 4 easy ways to spice things up
If you like to cook, there's a pretty good chance you're doing more of it now. With the economy slowly recovering and families rediscovering the value of gathering around the dinner table, more people are skipping restaurants and honing their skills as home chefs.
 
On the road: do-it-yourself moving tips
Millions of Americans take on the task of moving every year, whether it's for a job opportunity, to be closer to family, or to simply try out living in a new place. Whatever the reason for your move, you can make the task more pleasant by planning ahead and taking advantage of resources designed to make moving easier.
 
What's right for your sight?
Your eyes play a vital role in almost everything you do, and they help you see the world. So it's essential to ensure that you're taking care of your eyes and doing the most you can to keep them at their best. Specifically for contact lens wearers, there are several steps that can help keep eyes healthy, clean and comfortable.
 
Choosing the best water heater for your lifestyle
When ranking household appliances that consume the most energy, no one is surprised to see heating and air conditioning units at the top of the list. On the other hand, many people are surprised to learn that their water heater ranks at No. 2.
 
The work starts when the job search begins
A record number of people are looking for work these days. If you're not one of them, chances are you know someone who is. These frustrating economic conditions make it easy to get discouraged. For anyone feeling stalled in their job search, a few simple steps could put the wind back in their sails.
 
How to get the most out of your mower
Keeping your lawn looking green and trim is hard work in itself. The last thing you want is to find out the engine on your lawn mower is not up to the challenge. Fortunately, with a few simple procedures you can keep your lawn mower or riding tractor running smoothly throughout the season and beyond.
 
Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concrete
Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend.
 
Five burger-building secrets to thrill grilling fans
You may switch things up with salmon or add variety with veggies, but when it comes right down to it, the burger is still king of summer grilling. Here are an expert's tips for creating gourmet burgers at home.
 
Digital photography tips and tricks that will make your shots picture perfect
In today's digital world, cameras give people instant gratification. Ten years ago, digital camera technology was still being developed and people had to take film to a store to get their photos developed. Now all you have to do is plug your camera into your computer and you can easily upload and print pictures from the comfort of your own home.
 
Water is not the 'infinite' resource many believe
Do you ever think about how the water coming out of your faucet makes its way into your home? Or look out at the river as you're driving to work and expect it will always look the same? Though water is often perceived as an infinite resource that can't become endangered, by 2015, a majority of U.S. states may face water shortages. Some of those places may be right there in your backyard, and the loss of these ecosystems could affect your daily life.
 
Planning advice for creating the perfect reunion
Every five years your high school or college class has a good reason to celebrate - and you can celebrate with a reunion party.
 
Easy entertaining tips to shape up your home for any occasion
Do you love the idea of entertaining, but feel like getting your home ready for a social event requires too much time and attention? Not to worry, there are a few easy things you can do to make sure your home is always ready to host guests and they may not be as difficult to accomplish as you think.
 
Tips to get a leg up on back-to-school shoe shopping
She lived in sandals all summer long and he barely took his cleats off, even to go to bed. Summer fun and casual style may leave your kids facing back-to-school season in serious need of some new shoes. Parents should consider these important factors before buying new shoes for their children.
 
What to look for in a new lawn mower
Ready to get the lawn in shape, but your mower isn't? If it's time for a new companion on your lawn maintenance missions, there are a few things to think about before buying. If you choose a new lawn mower wisely, you won't have to worry about hearing a sputter when you pull the cord or turn the key for years to come.
 
Help kids get back into the swing of school with simple room updates
There's no avoiding the return to school. But parents can help kids ease the transition by creating an environment that's comforting -- and conducive to learning at the same time. If your child is struggling to adjust to going back to school, some simple changes in her bedroom might help make the move less difficult.
 
Simple steps to calm the financial jitters
Got a case of the financial jitters? You're not alone. A recent survey of 1,000 American adults by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and "Kiplinger's Personal Finance" magazine found that most Americans are still struggling with or worried about their finances.
 
How to have a safe and fun summer road trip
A summer road trip is a great opportunity for those once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a great way to make memories with your friends and family. A little planning and preparation will make your road trip even better. Here are some tips that can be essential to summer road trip success.
 
Declare war on bugs
Summer weather brings flowers, the smell of the grill, picnics and unfortunately, bugs.
 
Four things to teach your kids about staying home alone
With summer just around the corner, many parents are considering allowing their children to stay home alone for the first time. An important step in the maturing process, staying home alone can be both overwhelming and dangerous if not handled correctly. There are many ways children can put themselves at risk - even in the comfort of their own homes.
 
Social media: The best advertising money can't buy for your small business
Used to be, a diligent small business owner with a great idea and plenty of gumption could grow a business through word of mouth alone. In many ways, that's still true. Yet today, much of the "word of mouth" conversations and recommendations, which can make or break a business, are happening online, not face to face.
 
Smart moves: Five tips that will make moving to college a snap
As summer winds down, college freshmen - and sophomores, juniors and seniors - are gearing up to move onto campus. Whether you're moving to college for the first time or the third, you'll find there are ways to make your move smarter and, believe it or not, more enjoyable.
 
Gas-saving tips from the pros
In today's economy, consumers are more cost-conscious than ever. The following advice is from the pros at ASE, who note that these tips will not only save gasoline, they'll help extend the life of your vehicle.
 
Being green doesn't have to break the bank
Whether it's turning off the water while brushing your teeth, unplugging electronics when they're not in use or turning off the lights when you leave the room, adopting an environmentally friendly lifestyle on a budget is easier than you think. Here are a few simple ideas to make green living a part of your lifestyle.
 
Expert advice for starting a small business - even in this economy
Is it easier to climb Mount Everest than to start a small business in America today? More than 65 percent of Americans think so, according to a recent survey. Yet 70 percent also believe small businesses are more likely to turn around the economy than the federal government, reveals the survey by Wakefield Research conducted on behalf of e-commerce platform Alibaba.com.
 
Ten tips on how to be a good neighbor - and avoid lawsuits
Treating your neighbor as you would like to be treated is wisdom that is thousands of years old. And it may be more important than ever in today's litigious society where a growing number of Americans - nearly 80 percent - live side-by-side in urban and suburban areas, in many cases separated only by a wall.
 
Create 'curb appeal' with easy home projects
Whether you're selling your home and want the best price, or you just want to be the envy of the neighborhood, creating "curb appeal" can be very rewarding. And you're confident you know what constitutes great curb appeal - siding, windows, doors and a lawn that are all in good shape. But is that all you have to think about when it comes to curb appeal?
 
Essential tasks for your home maintenance short list
Unlike your car, your home doesn't come with a maintenance manual. Keeping your home in good shape means staying on top of the many things you need to do to protect its value and your family's safety.
 
Ten easy ways to use roses in the landscape
Somewhere between 5,000 and 3,000 years ago, a fellow hoping to impress his lady love was the first to give a rose as a symbol of love. Flash forward to today, and roses remain the enduring emblem of love and romance. Fortunately, however, modern breeding has made it easier than ever to add roses to your garden and landscaping.
 
Protect your home from termite damage
As Americans head outside to tend to their lawns and repair their houses, it's just as important to consider what might be happening out of sight, deep inside the home.
 
Debunk myths before starting a weight loss program
It's one of the seasons of the year when people are thinking of losing weight. Whether it's for a family or class reunion or trips to the beach, finding your own motivation for losing weight is critical. It's also important not to jeopardize your success by believing the myths and misconceptions about weight loss.
 
Tips for treating a cough caught at school
Children catch six to 10 colds a year and coughing is the symptom that most commonly prompts a visit to the doctor. Here is some expert advice for parents treating their children's coughs.
 
Potluck planning tips take the stress out of entertaining
Hosting a potluck dinner is a great way to ensure that all your guests will have something they enjoy, while taking the pressure off of you, the host or hostess, to prepare that perfect meal all by yourself. When your guests bring a dish with them, you can escape from a day spent in the kitchen and spend more time relaxing, preparing and actually enjoying the pleasure of entertaining.
 
Seasoning challenged? How to find a solution with spice blends
Smart seasoning can turn a so-so dish into a sparkling experience. If you're unsure how to expand your spice cabinet beyond the basics like pepper, paprika, chili powder, some garlic powder and (for the adventurous) a bit of curry powder, ready-made seasoning blends can eliminate the guesswork.
 
Smart online shopping tips to save Moms time and money
The average American mother spends nearly an hour a day purchasing products and services and more than two hours a day on household activities like housework, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Clearly, streamlining tasks like shopping can help mothers save money and make their lives easier.
 
Want to get kids into the kitchen? Start simple, encourage creativity
Experts agree that getting children involved with cooking has many benefits - from getting them to try new foods and learning about nutrition, to providing bonding time with other family members. No matter what age you begin introducing your child to culinary skills, keep in mind it's best to start simple and with foods that are already familiar to them.
 
Riding the social media wave: a user's guide to Web-based communication
People use social media for a variety of reasons. What role does social media play in your life? What role should it play?
 
Tips for throwing a memorable graduation party
Across America, as school season winds down, graduation party season is starting up. Whether it's the end of high school or college, a graduation is truly something to celebrate. Students, whether they're moving on to college or the workforce, have accomplished a lot and when the last test is taken, they're ready for a party.
 
How to know when it's time to replace old beauty products
Many of us are unsure when beauty products expire - or even if they do at all. Consequently, we may wind up holding on to partial bottles and remnants of products because we're not sure of their usefulness. The arrival of warm weather is a great time to purge. Here's advice to get you started.
 
Why it's never too early to start preparing for Christmas
If you stick your fingers in your ears at the mention of Christmas anytime before November, you might just be missing out. You don't need to be scouting for spruce trees or organizing your ornaments, but keeping Christmas in mind a number of months before it arrives can be helpful for your schedule, your stress levels and your bank account.
 
Family budgets stay on track with new and convenient coupon sources
Collecting coupons remains to be one of the best ways for families to save on everyday expenses - from cleaning supplies and health and beauty items to food and paper products.
 
Creatively cut the fat: substitute with apples
Looking to eat better? Tried low-fat and reduced-sodium products, but they just don't taste the same? If you want to modify your diet without giving up the tastes you love, substituting natural ingredients, rather than modified versions of unhealthy ingredients, could do the trick.
 
Smart household savings start in the laundry room
For many families, household budgets are still tight in the wake of the recession. But whether times are tough or not, it makes sense to save money wherever you can. There are plenty of small ways to start cutting costs. One of the best places in your home to start saving is the laundry room.
 
Think outside the album for your digital photos
Photos have always been important to people - a standard answer to the "what would you take out of a burning house" question is always "photographs." Even so, photos seem to be even more important today - the younger generations take photos almost constantly to update their blogs and social networking sites, and digital photography makes it easier than ever for people of all ages to take great pictures.
 
Easier CPR technique can help anyone save a life
Modern CPR celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and "hands-only" CPR makes it easier for anyone to help save a life using only chest compressions and a call to 911.
 
How to make your yard sale more successful
Spring cleaning is the perfect time to gather up all of the things you don't really need or use and sell them in a yard sale. Rather than simply throwing things away, holding a yard sale is a more environmentally friendly option (because you're not sending all of those items to the landfill) and it can also give your wallet a little extra padding.
 
Tips for keeping your garden truly organic
The trend for gardening at home continues to grow - and people are taking a particular interest in raising their flowers and vegetables organically. With such prominent figures as Michelle Obama taking public initiatives in organic gardening, more and more products that cater to the trend are appearing.
 
Five easy ways to help lower your auto insurance premiums
Times are tough for a lot of people right now. Between high unemployment, low savings account interest rates and the volatile stock market, saving money is of paramount importance. But there are more ways to save than you may think.
 
Simple fixes deliver resort style to your own backyard
Even though the economy is getting better, you may still hesitate to spend your hard-earned or hard-saved cash on something as transient as a luxury summer vacation. Instead of splashing money away on travel, why not bring the luxury home by creating a resort-like outdoor environment that will both enhance your enjoyment and improve the value of your house?
 
Let the sun shine in - and the volatile gases flow out
Remember that sweet children's song that advises us to "let the sun shine in" so we can enjoy life? Update it for today's modern lifestyle, which gets lived in air-tight homes filled with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and maybe we should add "and let the volatile gases out." Skylights let the sun shine in, and let VOCs escape.
 
How to make choosing entertainment options a breeze
Whether it's looking for the perfect first-date movie or searching for lyrics to a favorite song, Americans are spending increasing amounts of time searching for ideal ways to spend their hard-earned free time and dollars. In fact, one of every 10 online searches is entertainment related. While the online explosion of entertainment activities and information means more choices, it also means doing more leg-work to find that right choice.
 
Smart tips that can make moving easier
In the hectic months and weeks leading up to a move, it's easy to let some essential things fall through the cracks - things that could make the process of moving much easier. It's a good idea to start a list of tasks that need to be completed and check them off as you go. Try keeping the list in a binder where you can also collect other information you'll need leading up to, and on, moving day.
 
Parents: Tips for giving kids a DIY summer camp experience at home
Many American families may still be tightening their belts this summer, as the economy continues its slow climb out of recession. If your family has decided to save money by foregoing traditional summer camps, you can still give your kids a fun summer - by staging a do-it-yourself summer camp at home.
 
Savvy investors lead 21st century gold rush
The term "don't put your eggs all in one basket" makes perfect sense when talking about financial investments, and after the recent stock market plummet, many families are realizing why they need financial portfolio diversification.
 
Spring cleaning to find hidden villains
Nearly everyone can appreciate polished surfaces and tidy rooms, but spring cleaning has other benefits. Spring cleaning can also help deal with allergens and pests in your home. Many people are aware of allergens like dust, pollen, mold, mildew and animal dander, especially in the spring, but some sources of these are often less obvious. Just a few simple steps added to your spring cleaning every year can help you to enjoy your home.
 
Seating safety for kids on a road trip
Is your baby in a rear-facing car seat? Is your toddler in a forward-facing seat with a full harness? Does your 4- to- 8 year old ride in a booster seat, and do all of your kids sit in the back seat? If you answered "no" to any of these questions, you may be putting your child's safety at risk.
 
Conquer closet creep with these time-saving tips
Closet creep is real. No, your possessions aren't multiplying in the middle of the night, though it may seem that way. But it does take resolve to tame the tendency to keep more than is discarded so your home stays organized and clutter free.
 
Three secrets to creating your dream wedding
Wedding season is here and millions of couples are finalizing plans for their big day. But what many couples don't know is that there are easy ways to avoid stress while planning a wedding. By following these tips, you can focus on all that is special about your wedding and reception, and avoid the headaches that sometimes come along with them.
 
What stays? What goes? Tips for newlyweds moving in
Today's marriages are occurring later in life. Couples must decide whose couch stays and tally how many flat-screen TVs they want to bring to their new home. Experts offer tips to help couples address the challenges associated with combining households.
 
Cell phones and cars are a deadly mix
The next time you witness a driver drifting from lane to lane, running a red light or making a left-hand turn while ignoring oncoming traffic, chances are they have a cell phone in hand.
 
How your spouse's bad driving record may affect you
If you've recently married the love of your life, congratulations! Love is a wonderful thing; but it can also come with surprises. Do you know what kind of driving record your new spouse has? If not, it would be a good idea to find out.
 
Five tips college students need to be credit card smart
Going to college is, for most students, the first time they'll feel really independent. And, accordingly, the rest of the world starts treating them like adults too, from the expectations of college professors to the credit card offers that will start flooding in. And just as it's important to study hard for a major, it's essential to learn what are the real benefits and repercussions of having a credit card.
 
How to shop smart for your health and your wallet
With a dizzying array of choices in the supermarket, finding the best foods for your family can be a challenge, particularly in the dairy aisle. Every shopping trip is an opportunity to re-evaluate your family's grocery store habits and make changes for a happy wallet and a healthy body.
 
Spring into action this car care season
As Americans start to clean up their act, they often focus on cleaning and maintenance tasks essential to keeping their homes in good repair. However, they often forget to take the same care with their vehicles. Now is the best time to prepare for warmer weather and the different road conditions that go with it.
 
Five top trends in patio design
When does a trend become a tradition? With continued interest in creating great outdoor living spaces, the trend for jazzing up the backyard may just be on the verge of becoming a staple of the American home, and as much a requirement as a great kitchen or welcoming bath. Here are five hot trends in patio design.
 
Easy ways to find more time in a day
You love your free moments, and having more of them in a day is vital to enjoying life. So here are a couple of time-saving tips you can adopt to give you a bit more of that precious free time.
 
Expecting? How to look your best
It's no secret that pregnancy does not always bring out one's inner glamour girl. As your waistline and bust balloon, it's easy to lose all sense of fashion and hide in baggy sweats, oversized button downs, or even your husband's jeans. Here's expert advice on maintaining your sense of style while waiting for your bundle of joy.
 
Tip of the day: tax credits for homeowners that can be applied next year
It's not too soon to start thinking about next year's income tax filing season. And with some government tax incentives set to expire at year's end, savvy homeowners are planning today to save for tomorrow by taking advantage of tax credits that reward energy efficiency projects.
 
Turn up the fun and turn down the heat this summer
Shirt sleeves are getting shorter and the days are getting longer, which can only mean one thing - summer is just around the corner. No matter how many fun summer activities you have planned for your family, as the summer wears on, you will eventually hear two things from your children: "I'm hot" and "I'm bored." Don't let that be the case in your household this year.
 
As the 2010 Census continues, it's still important to protect your identity
If you haven't already mailed in your 2010 U.S. Census form, you should expect a visit from a census taker very soon. The law mandates that everyone complete and return the forms, but you should know some things about protecting your identity during census time.
 
Smart ways to do more with your photos
When was the last time you took a roll of film in to be developed? For most adults, it's tough to remember, and a lot of kids and teenagers have never done it at all. The norm is now bringing in a CD, a memory stick or your camera's memory card, if you want to get prints. However, digital photography makes it easy to take your photos well beyond 4 x 6 prints.
 
How to get the most out of hosting
Dazzling guests with a perfectly prepared meal is always the goal when deciding to open your home to friends and family, but it sometimes can be a stressful experience. Following a few simple tips from a chef who knows a little bit about entertaining guests at high-profile events can help put you at ease when planning your next big get-together.
 
Grilling tips to keep home fires burning safely
Summer is here and so is grilling season. Before firing up the grills, however, weekend warriors should observe a few simple precautions to ensure that backyard barbecue bashes don't go up in flames.
 
Illness in the family? How to reduce caregiver stress
Families with ill or hospitalized loved ones are turning to the Internet and personal Web pages to keep an extended network of friends and family informed about their loved one's progress.
 
Totally tubular: Skylights that work on the first floor
Who wouldn't love a room filled with beautiful natural light from above? If the room you want to light, however, is on the ground floor - or below an attic - you may think installing a skylight is impossible. Think again. Tubular skylights are an inexpensive, energy-efficient way to bring passive natural light into your home - even in rooms where you might not be able to put a traditional skylight.
 
How to take pest control and prevention into your own hands
Warm weather welcomes more than just outdoor barbeques, summer vacation and vegetable gardens - it brings back the pests that like to annoy us. Insect problems are more than just irritating - they can potentially pose serious risks. If you're struggling to solve a pest problem in or around your home, and don't want to pay for someone to solve it for you, there are DIY solutions that are effective and affordable.
 
You don't necessarily need specialty insurance for your classic car
If you're one of the many people who own a vintage vehicle, you are likely paying more than you should for auto insurance.
 
Before you plan your next summer BBQ - find out how take it from drab to fab
While most of us can plan and host a summer barbecue with our eyes closed, it's easy to fall into a rut of whipping up the same old menu and breaking out the basic decorations. This year, learn how to put a modern twist on your summer fete.
 
Simple and chic bathroom perk-ups
Want a new bathroom, but think the price tag might be out of your budget? Don't give up so easily. Many simple updates and unique products can give you a custom-designed look on a bare-minimum budget.
 
Tips for sprucing up your wardrobe for the spring season
Even if you plan to welcome warm weather with a shopping trip to pick up a few of the season's trendy items, chances are you'll also be bringing some of last year's pieces out of storage and stowing your winter clothes away. To save yourself a shopping trip or two, properly clean clothes before you store them, and you'll be able to get several seasons of wear out of them. You'll also want to freshen clothes that have just come out of storage, even if you washed them before packing them away last year.
 
The 'keys' to homeownership
"It's a buyer's market" is a popular headline right now. It's one that's hard to ignore, especially if you're a young adult or even a long-time renter who has been waiting for the right time to pursue the American dream of owning your own home.
 
Take a lesson in history when buying a used car
You may have heard about vehicle history reports and you may already know that they are a good idea, but are they really worth the money? And once you buy one, how can you be sure you understand all the information on it?
 
Renters take note: patch and repair to reclaim your full deposit
Whether you're renting a truck or paying for movers, costs can add up quick when you're changing residences. If you've been renting, the full return of your security deposit may come as sweet relief as you move from one place to the next.
 
First impressions matter most: the importance of a memorable logo
You wouldn't go into a job interview wearing shorts and a T-shirt. You know better than to show up an hour late to meet the parents of your future spouse for the first time. That's because you realize the importance of first impressions. For businesses, logos are often the first thing people notice. Therefore, it's important your logo makes a memorable first impression.
 
Ready to renovate? Key ingredients: style, color, pizzazz
Whether you're remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or adding a bedroom, one of the most important decorating steps is choosing windows to match the architectural style of your home.
 
Easy ideas for elegant outdoor summer entertaining
To really impress your guests this summer, give your outdoor soirees a little extra elegance that goes beyond the usual grill-out. The good news is that it's easier than you'd imagine to create an ambiance that is welcoming and sophisticated.
 
Detect skin cancer early when it's most curable
Do you know your skin? Beyond your face and hands, which you probably look at every day, do you know what the skin on the inside of your arms or the bottom of your feet looks like? It's important to know what your skin looks like - every inch of it - so that if a suspicious lesion appears or a mole starts to change, you can make an appointment with a dermatologist to be checked for skin cancer.
 
Five tips for cutting your kids' hair at home
Cutting your kid's hair at home is convenient and saves money. In fact, a majority of people say they are confident using a hair clipper in three haircuts or less, the same amount of time it takes for the clipper to pay for itself. Also, a family of four can easily save $500 annually when three or more family members cut their hair at home. Here are five simple tips from WAHL to use with your kids.
 
Why it's so important to keep your car clean
How often do you clean your car? A lot of people run their vehicle through the car wash every month or two, more often in the winter. But how often do you vacuum the inside of your car?
 
How to create a stellar MLB fantasy league
The baseball season is in full swing and many people across the country are venturing to websites to join fantasy baseball leagues. Many satellite TV providers offer specials this time of year with packages that allow you to view multiple games per night. If all your friends are all joining individual leagues, why not start up your own? Here are a few tips to assist you on your quest to creating a fantasy league that will have your friends clamoring to join come next season.
 
Bring the beach back with you - creating cottage style in your home
Nothing's harder to face than packing up your belongings after a week at a cozy beach house and heading back home to the real world. Sure, it's hard to leave paradise behind, but who says you have to? Why not just transform your own living space to a beach-inspired haven that lets you get away from it all, even if you aren't on vacation? It's easy and inexpensive to do.
 
Five free websites to help you keep in touch
Staying in touch with loved ones can be quite a chore if you rely mostly on phone calls and snail mail. If rising postage and long-distance costs are keeping you from connecting with family and friends, consider one of the many options available through the magic of digital communication. The only hard part of communicating digitally is deciding which connection best fits your circumstance. Check out these online options to meet your needs and use some or all of them for optimal communication.
 
How to make your outdoor living space as cool and comfortable as indoors
It is easy to enjoy your deck or patio when the weather is warm and pleasant, and memories of cold winters are driven far away. But when the temperatures soar, do you find yourself retreating indoors? Even through the dog days of summer, you can enjoy your outdoor living space by using outdoor versions of indoor comforts such as luxurious furnishings, decorative touches and even air conditioning.
 
Secrets every bride can use to make her wedding unique
Every bride-to-be dreams of putting her unique stamp on her wedding day. Blending her chosen wedding colors into many of the occasion's elements is just the first step toward a creative and beautiful event. Brides in gorgeous gowns, bridesmaids and groomsmen decked out in the wedding party's colors and striking flowers are the perfect accompaniment to the colorful landscape of the summer and fall wedding seasons.
 
Help your wedding photographer take great pictures
When it comes to planning a perfect wedding day, there are hundreds of details to consider and scenarios to plan for. However, none of them will mean anything if you don't have a wedding photographer in place capturing each and every memorable moment.
 
Outdoor lighting tops the list of easy weekend projects
Summer is a great time for outdoor home improvement projects, but it's also supposed to be a time to relax and have fun with family and friends. That makes quick-to-do projects that add to the "family fun factor" appealing to homeowners, who also need to spend their limited home improvement dollars wisely.
 
Getting to the root of grub problems
You water, fertilize and give your lawn all the TLC it needs, yet come late-summer you still find unsightly brown patches scattered across the turf. If the turf in these spots can easily be pulled away from the ground, you most likely have a grub problem. And chances are if you don't act quickly these voracious pests may spread and cause significant damage to your lawn.
 
Selling a house? Tips for attracting buyers with good scents
Can a potential buyer be compelled to make a big purchase if a pleasant background fragrance appeals to their senses and breaks down their defenses? Real estate agents and home sellers these days are widely banking on it.
 
Easy cherry recipes are a sweet start to summer
The pleasures of summer -- its warm temperatures, its long days, its holidays and its bounty of fresh foods -- make it an infinitely lovable season. It's no wonder we look forward to it throughout the rest of the year. Many people plant fruits and vegetables in late spring, after the last danger of frost has passed, but the wait to harvest those treats can be long. Luckily, a bounty of fruit is ready at the start of summer, in the form of sweet Bing cherries.
 
How to make growing your own vegetables as earth-friendly as possible
There was a time when it was the norm to go out in the yard and pull fresh vegetables up from the soil. At some point over the years, we moved from the goodness of home-grown vegetables toward processed foods and microwave dinners. Now consumers are becoming more aware of the financial value of growing their own vegetables, and how doing so can bolster the health of their families and of the earth.
 
Quick Poll
An elderly Duplin County woman was raped recently. Does the heinous nature of that crime justify to you bringing back public lynchings?

 
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