| It's OK to cry: Expert tips for creating an emotionally charged Valentine's Day card for your man |
| With the onslaught of roses, hearts and cherubs, it's easy to think Valentine's Day is all about women, but men deserve something special too. You don't need to gift luscious chocolates or a new designer watch to get the ultimate Valentine's Day reaction. This year, more women are thinking ahead to create customized cards for their beaus that truly speak from the heart - and men are responding with tears of joy. |
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| Budget-friendly ideas for creating an impressive entertaining space |
| Between sports games, upcoming winter holidays and fast-approaching New Year's parties, there are many reasons to celebrate with friends and family. Now is the perfect time to create an impressive entertaining space in your home, before the season gears up. The good news is, with a few simple strategies, it's easy and affordable to create the perfect gathering area for your loved ones. |
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| Keep your hair shiny and bright this year |
| Holiday festivities may be over, but that doesn't mean you can slack on hair care. Starting each day with a great 'do can help you face winter challenges with a shiny, bright spirit. |
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| Four simple tips to achieve your New Year's resolutions |
| The new year is here and it's time to tackle your resolutions! You've set your goal, and now is the time to take action. Following a few simple tips can help you kick start your healthy habits and inspire you to achieve your goals this year. |
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| New year, new holistic skincare routine |
| The new year is an ideal time to set goals surrounding personal health, fitness and wellness. As many goal-setters know, setting realistic resolutions that one can keep is a challenge, but taking a holistic approach to health - which includes everything from skincare and diet to working out and maintaining a balanced lifestyle - ensures that resolutions turn into results. |
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| Tips to keep you trekking this winter |
| Winter is in full swing, and with the magical season come the potentially unpleasant snow, ice and slippery conditions that can make driving a challenge. But, even in this less-than-ideal driving weather, Americans are ready to take on what Mother Nature throws their way. Even though 63 percent of Americans say icy roads are their top winter driving concern, 76 percent also say they are comfortable driving in snow, according to Hankook Tire's Winter Gauge Index. |
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| Gifts that stick: Tips to giving holiday gifts with staying power |
| When buying holiday gifts, we seek to find something that our loved ones will not only enjoy, but also keep. Unfortunately, many gifts are headed straight from under the tree back to store shelves. In fact, more than half of holiday shoppers expect to return gifts this holiday season, according to a recent national survey. |
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| All the New Year's fun on half the budget |
| The high price of New Year's Eve hotel accommodations doesn't have to keep you from celebrating in big-city style. Even the most sought-after New Year's Eve hotspots have nearby alternatives that give travelers access to big-city countdowns without the big-city price tags. |
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| Five holiday tips to make your trip home a little smoother |
| There's no place like home for the holidays, but getting there can be a less-than-joyous experience. While busy airports aren't known to inspire a holly, jolly spirit, a few tips and tricks can help you breathe a little easier as you make your way home. |
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| Exciting ways to stay motivated and get fit this year |
| This is the time of year when many people set a weight loss goal and pledge to begin living a healthier life. Enrolling in a fitness program is a popular means of accomplishing a weight loss goal. But while many people are successful with their exercise programs, others fail because they quit the program before they can reap the benefits. |
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| Plowing 101: Tips for removing snow quickly and efficiently |
| If you live in America's snowbelt, you know how back-breaking clearing all that white stuff can be. Using a shovel or snow blower can be time-consuming and strenuous, prompting many people to acquire a snowplow to keep driveways and other areas safe. If you're a newbie to plowing, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. |
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| Travel tips to reduce your stress this holiday season |
| Traveling over the holidays to visit family can be a bit stressful. As you travel during this time of year, consider the following tips to help you reduce your stress and better enjoy the time spent with family while away from home. |
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| Restaurants serve up opportunities to give back |
| Approximately 980,000 restaurants serve communities across the U.S., according to the National Restaurant Association (NRA). Many have deep roots in those communities - they know the needs of their neighbors and recognize they are an integral part of everyday life. |
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| Caring for your community: Three ways to give back year-round |
| Do you think your family should get involved in volunteer efforts, but you don't know how to get started? Whether you choose to be active in your community on a weekly basis or dedicate holidays to helping out, it's never too late to begin giving something back, and there are many ways to make a difference on a local and national level. |
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| Add a touch of style to your holiday this year |
| The holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. Whether you are hosting a large party or are planning to keep it simple with just a few guests, chances are you are looking for ways to deck the halls inside and out to create Christmas cheer. |
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| Tips to prepare your vehicle for winter travel |
| Now that frigid temperatures and stormy days have come back in earnest, it's time for car owners to think seriously about the road conditions ahead and take the simple but important steps to ensure safe winter travel this year. |
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| Celebrate the season with a new beauty routine |
| For most places, winter undoubtedly means chilly temperatures, less sunlight and - inevitably - dry, tight or flaky skin. This season, follow these easy tips to break the cycle of dull winter skin by revamping beauty routines that will ensure radiant skin is always in the forecast. |
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| Tips for keeping your house warm without burning a hole in your pocket |
| The winter months mean celebrating the holidays, reconnecting with family and friends and planning your resolutions for the New Year. They can also mean a sharp increase to your monthly heating bill in order to stay warm and comfortable. If you're interested in controlling your energy expenses while maintaining comfort, the tips below will help you make sure more of your money is put towards presents than power. |
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| Tips to keep feet happy this holiday season |
| Holiday shopping, decorating, parties galore, and traveling to visit loved ones are all part of our holiday revelries. But while you're making all that merriment, how happy are your feet? No one wants sore feet or injuries to slow them down during the holidays, so it's important to care for the body parts that will carry you through all those seasonal celebrations and chores. |
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| Doing your own taxes? Here's what you need to know |
| More than 43.6 million Americans prepared and e-filed their own income tax returns in 2013, up 4 percent from the year before, according to the IRS. In addition to being more affordable than a storefront or accountant, online and mobile solutions have made doing your own taxes exceptionally easy and fast. |
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| Winning ideas for beating winter blues |
| Nearly 150 days separate the last day of the winter holidays from the first unofficial day of summer - Memorial Day. After holiday decorations get packed away, and winter sets in, it's not uncommon to experience a touch - or more - of winter boredom. Fortunately, a number of tactics can help perk up your spirits. |
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| To tip or not to tip: that is the holiday question |
| When the holiday season arrives, so too does the enigma of holiday tipping. What's supposed to be a sign of gratitude for great service, can quickly turn into stress as you try to decide if and how much you should tip the handyman, mail carrier, babysitter and many more. Here is the ultimate guide to holiday tipping from etiquette experts. |
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| Gift-giving tips for people who have everything |
| Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be difficult at any time of year, but no time places more stress on finding a great gift than Christmas. It goes beyond finding the "perfect" gift for special days and holidays to giving something that reflects your affection or appreciation for the gifts you've received over time from that individual. |
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| Tips to achieve wholesome health in 2014 |
| You're all too familiar with that one, dreaded moment when the festivities end. It hits you every year like a bad hangover. You promise yourself that once the last sip of eggnog has been guzzled and the cookie jar has been emptied, you'll get healthy. |
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| Dazzling holiday party looks from head to toe |
| 'Tis the season for glitzing up a sparkling holiday look. From office parties and family gatherings to community events and charity galas, now is the time to look and feel your best. |
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| Protect your new purchases over the holiday season |
| Let the hustle and bustle of the holiday shopping season begin. Sales in November and December are expected to increase 3.9 percent over last year to $602.1 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. However, with holiday purchases comes the risk of theft. |
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| Americans' top Internet searches of 2013 |
| Looking back on 2013, billions of Internet searches from around the world reveal it was a year of American songs, superhero movies, social media love, high-end designer brands, controversial sports stars, European getaways and fierce women. |
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| Create inviting entrances to welcome holiday guests |
| Holiday season guests will soon come knocking at your front door. What's the first impression your home's entryway creates? Is it a warm, friendly welcome, or is the cold hard truth that your home's entryway could use some improvement? Try these handy holiday entryway-decorating tips to create an inviting entryway and make everyone feel right at home. |
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| Easy cookies to warm the winter |
| Whether the goodies are for gifts, for parties, or for the family to enjoy, chilly winter days are the perfect time to have the oven on and the house smelling great. |
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| The 'Three P's' to smarter holiday spending |
| Americans will spend more than $6 billion this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. How much of that will be overspending or outright wasted money? It's possible to control holiday spending and make smart money decisions this holiday season, if you keep in mind the "three P's": plan, purchase and protect. |
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| Don't bust your budget: Tips and tricks to stretch those holiday dollars |
| Creating lists, checking them twice - it's a tradition for many families across the country this time of year as they plan and shop for gifts for friends and family. Even with the economy starting to recover, many people will set a budget before tackling their holiday shopping, but two-thirds of those that set a budget will likely go over. Here are some ways to save. |
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| Tips for a keeping your home safe and dry this winter |
| Freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall are in store for much of the country this winter, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac, and that means homeowners need to start taking immediate steps to ensure that their loved ones and property stay safe and warm through the long, cold months ahead. |
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| Shape up your home in time for the expected guests |
| Excited about hosting a party; but dreading the decorating? You don't have to spend a great deal of money or invest a lot of time to get your home ready. There are a number of quick, easy and inexpensive projects you can complete to update your decor before the doorbell rings. |
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| Gifts for foodies guaranteed to leave taste buds dancing |
| Between the growing trends of boutique restaurants, creative home cooking and entire television networks dedicated to food, you probably know a few people who consider themselves "foodies." Whether they love craft beer, decadent chocolate treats or gourmet cheeses, you can find many great gift ideas for people passionate about food and drink. Make their holiday extra bright by indulging their interests and exploring some of these top trends in food-related gifts. |
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| Help your holiday season flow easier |
| As people fill their holidays with parties, friends, family and celebrations, a bit of added stress and a tremendous amount of decadent food are also thrown into the mix. For many Americans, this may lead to digestive problems, too. |
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| Quick tips on preparing your home for the holidays in a flash |
| The holidays are an exciting time of year, but it may seem like you never have enough time to get ready. From preparing meals, buying presents and cleaning your home before friends and family arrive, time seems to always run short. So wouldn't it be nice if you could save time on even one of those monumental tasks? With the right tools, and a few helpful ideas, you'll be spending your time celebrating the season instead of fretting about the cleaning. |
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| Better-for-you snacks to satisfy all your holiday guests |
| The holiday season is a time for everyone to indulge in delicious foods but doing so shouldn't be a guilt-ridden experience. There are several options available to satisfy your taste buds while still staying on track. The following are some snack options that not only embrace the latest food trends but are sure to please your guests as well. |
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| Scouting out the best Black Friday and holiday shopping deals? |
| You know the holidays have officially begun when the tinsel and colored lights go up in stores, streets and homes. Thanksgiving Day is now Black Thursday, when consumers - still hungry and primed for the best possible holiday deals - fight the famous tryptophan sluggishness and rush off to the mall not long after the turkey is carved and gobbled. |
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| Use your rewards credit card wisely over the holidays to get the most out of your spending |
| Festive decorations, twinkling lights, seasonal foods and the company of loved ones - everyone has that special something they enjoy most about the holiday season. Avoiding sticker shock when you see your January credit card bill might be one of them. It can be a challenge to keep costs down, however, when you have a lengthy gift list to get through. One easy option you may not have thought of is probably already waiting in your wallet - if you use a credit card that offers a rewards program. |
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| Don't let messes leave you in a 'holidaze': Easy tips for post-holiday clean up |
| The holidays bring plenty of cheer and the arrival of family from all over. It's the most wonderful time of the year, after all. But with family visits and hearty meals also comes a big share of messes. After hefty helpings of gravy and chocolates, there will be plenty of cleaning required to get your home back in tip top shape for the new year. It's enough to leave anyone "holidazed," but with the right tools and tricks on your side, it does not have to. |
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| Five reasons why scent is important for home decorating |
| Cold temperatures and long hours of darkness - at this time of year, many inspirations prompt people to redecorate. But while you're looking for just the right shade of yellow to make your kitchen look brighter on short winter days, don't overlook another powerful decorator's trick - scent. |
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| Tips for finding the perfect guy gift this holiday season |
| Guys can be the hardest people to shop for, and finding the perfect gift has become a daunting holiday tradition. Sure, they will appreciate the thought behind another bundle of tube socks - and might even wear them - but there are gifts that bring a wow factor and make even the most stoic guys light up like a little kid. |
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| Five tips for the perfect movie night |
| The nice thing about cold weather is that it creates the perfect opportunity to enjoy the warmth of family and friends or some quiet time alone. What sounds more pleasant than placing some wood in the fire and curling up in front of the TV with a new movie? When planning a movie night, here are some tips that can help create a comfortable evening for the whole group. |
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| Tips for stress-free holiday meals |
| Holiday meals are often the highlights of the season, as nothing beats making memories with friends and family over delicious food and good wine. However, planning the perfect get-together can be difficult and even stressful. To help you get through this holiday season seamlessly, Tom Colicchio, chef/owner of Craft Restaurants and head judge on Top Chef is sharing his tips for planning an effortless holiday meal that will knock your guests' socks off. |
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| Kitchen fires spike during holidays: Keep your family safe |
| During the holidays, more Americans spend time in the kitchen preparing meals for family and friends. That additional kitchen time also means added risk of home fires. In fact, three times more fires occur on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day than on any other days of the year, yet many Americans aren't practicing basic kitchen safety. This holiday season, follow these simple fire-safety tips. |
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| Tips to help you shop smarter this holiday season |
| The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends, which means more merry-making, staying organized and enjoying the time spent shopping for the perfect gifts. A smart shopper is able to access and keep organized great deals and discounts, reduce time with online shopping and check for last-minute opinions if absolutely necessary. |
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| 2013 holiday gift guide: outrageous and outside-the-box ideas |
| With the holiday season quickly approaching, it's officially shopping crunch time. This year, consider some innovative and imaginative gift ideas sure to impress even the hardest to shop for on your list. You may want to gift yourself a holiday treat, too. |
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| Tips for successful gift giving this holiday season |
| This time of year, there is no shortage of holiday gift guides available to help you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Whether it's your chocolate-loving aunt or fashion-forward sister, there is an art to selecting just the right things to put smiles on their faces. |
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| 'Tis the season to see if your tread's been bad or good |
| The holidays are here again, and so is driving around for things. Rushing to parties, picking up family at the airport, preparing dinners, and, of course, shopping. Whether it's fighting for parking spaces at the mall or traveling over the river and through the woods, don't overlook the four round pieces of rubber that are responsible for safely getting you from point A to point B - your tires. |
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| Five key deadlines to help small businesses avoid IRS headaches |
| The adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure still rings true - especially for businesses preparing for tax season. If you oversee your company's filing requirements, knowing what is due and when can save you and your employee's penalties, time and stress. |
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| Get crafty with edible holiday appetizers |
| Don't worry, Mom. In this case, it's OK to play with your food. The latest online social media craze features awe-inspiring galleries of edible art, showcasing everyday ingredients transformed into munchable holiday masterpieces. |
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| Adding traditional twists to the Thanksgiving meal |
| Across America, families will be spending Thanksgiving together, and more than likely, enjoying the same menu items they've enjoyed in years past. Interestingly, more than half of Americans would embrace adding new foods or new preparations to the Thanksgiving table this year, and many think that side dishes provide the perfect opportunity to experiment. |
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| Top 5 tips to simplify holiday baking |
| From cookies to cupcakes, the holidays just aren't complete without freshly-baked treats to gift, serve and enjoy. But baking isn't always a piece of cake, whether you're an expert or novice baker. So this year, as you preheat your oven and prepare to whip up dozens of your favorite recipes, check out these five helpful tips to ensure your holiday cookies don't crumble. |
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| How to keep your new valuables safe |
| U.S. retail sales rose 3.5 percent during the 2013 holiday season, according to the MasterCard Advisors' SpendingPulse report. So whether you received some fun gifts from friends or put that holiday bonus to good use to buy something nice for yourself, you may have some new, expensive items in your home. If you have jewelry, electronics or other big ticket items, it's important to make sure you're protected through 2014 and beyond. |
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| Why older adults must understand their flu vaccine options and get vaccinated |
| With the 2013-2014 flu season officially here, it's important to consider the single best way to prevent influenza (commonly known as "the flu") - the flu vaccine. What many older adults don't know is that the immune system weakens with age, meaning older adults are at a higher risk for flu and related complications. |
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| Your zzz's count this holiday season, so start counting them |
| Between squeezing extra activities into your schedule, finding time to bake holiday treats for your children's classrooms and organizing a mini family reunion, the holiday season might be causing you a bit of stress. And if that stress is affecting your sleep, you could be caught up in the vicious cycle of exhaustion causing stress and stress causing more exhaustion. |
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| Expert tips for adding top home design trends to your holiday decor |
| From decking the halls to trimming the tree, everyone loves the tradition of decorating their home for the holiday season. It's a time to pull out heirloom pieces and blend them with modern elements to make your home truly one of a kind. This year, refresh your holiday motif with a few top decor trends for a look guaranteed to impress. |
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| Think outside the chocolate box when hosting a holiday cookie exchange |
| The holidays provide a good excuse to bake and eat cookies. Not the traditional chocolate chip or peanut butter cookies that most of us eat during the rest of the year, but those special recipes that have everyone going back for a second taste. Hosting a cookie exchange is a great way to expose your friends to a wider variety of cookie recipes this holiday season. |
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| Festive tabletop ideas for holiday entertaining |
| Do you have the blues this holiday season? How about the pinks? Non-traditional holiday colors are a popular trend in home decor this yuletide, especially when it comes to decking the table for special gatherings with family and friends. |
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| Celebrate the season with loved ones near and far |
| The holiday season is a time for celebrating with loved ones, but family and friends aren't always nearby. Although you may not be able to spend the holidays together in-person, there are still plenty of ways to show out-of-town loved ones you care. With a thoughtful approach, you can find easy ways to spread some holiday cheer, whether your nearest and dearest live across the street, across the country or even across the globe. |
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| Gifts to decor: 'Hot' chocolate ideas for the holidays |
| While many of us consider chocolate welcome and appropriate at any time of year, this most delightful sweet can take center stage during the holidays. Whether you give it as a gift, serve it on a holiday buffet or make it the centerpiece of your seasonal decor, chocolate is always on trend. Here are some hot ideas for making your holiday entertaining a celebration of all things chocolate. |
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| Quick and easy meal solutions for holiday entertaining |
| The hectic holidays can mean hurried cooks, frantic trips to the grocery store and chaotic menu planning. But it doesn't have to - with some tried and true solutions for easy entertaining, you can reduce your stress and set up a holiday party guaranteed to impress guests from near or far. |
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| Quick, simple holiday entertaining tricks |
| The holidays are that special time of year when we open our homes and welcome guests from far and wide. It is a chance for us to connect with old friends and family we may not have seen since the previous holiday season. |
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| Dish up the love this holiday season with time-honored recipes |
| The heart of the holiday season centers around the bonds created during celebrations and traditions - Thanksgiving dinner, cookie exchanges, Christmas and Hanukkah parties and more. These special moments are often created in and around the kitchen. Whether it's an afternoon spent making holiday cookies or sitting around the table enjoying Grandma's famous meatballs, there's something special about quality time spent together preparing for or enjoying seasonal fare. |
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| Three easy holiday shopping strategies |
| Thanksgiving comes late this year, which means a shorter-than-usual holiday shopping season. If you're not the type to buy gifts throughout the year, getting an early start on holiday shopping can help ensure you have enough time to find gifts for everyone on your list - and perhaps, most importantly, save money. Here are three things to do now to save money and time this holiday season. |
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| Home winterizing Rx: A prescription for comfort and cost savings all season long |
| Homeowners will pay 13 percent more this year to heat their homes with natural gas, the U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts. Prices for heating with propane, electricity and heating oil will also remain higher than five-year averages, the administration says. With this in mind, it is especially important for homeowners to act now to ensure their homes are energy-efficient. |
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| Space-making ideas create room for holiday entertaining |
| Every holiday party is as individual as the hosts and interesting as the guests. Yet whether you plan a sophisticated dinner party or an afternoon buffet, all parties do have one thing in common: the need for entertaining space. |
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| Prepare your car for winter with these simple tips |
| Getting ready for winter is no small feat. It takes time and planning to make sure your family and your home are ready to brave the elements. But is your car as ready as you are? If you haven't thought about preparations for your vehicle, these simple tips will help you prepare for the colder months ahead. |
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| DIY decorating that lasts all season long |
| As the holidays roll around, it's natural to want to spread good tidings and cheer with festive decorations like wreaths, candy canes and Santa Claus figurines. But this year, instead of digging out the same old holiday decorations, why not create some new looks that will last the entire winter season, even after you put away the gift wrap and ornaments? |
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| Deck the halls with tissues and allergy meds |
| Whether you live near or far, returning home for the holidays can be a nostalgic time. But for those with allergies and asthma, celebrating the season with family and friends can be anything but enjoyable. |
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| Five ways to find better Black Friday savings online |
| Black Friday shopping can seem overwhelming, especially shopping online where you must navigate a sea of advertisements, emails, dozens of specialized Black Friday discount websites and a massive selection of sale-priced items. It can be difficult to know you're getting the best savings possible. |
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| Tips for hosting a party that shines |
| Entertaining with family and friends is one part of the holiday season that we all look forward to. But holiday hosting can sometimes be harried. To keep you and your guests merry this season, consider hosting a wine party that shines. |
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| Five tips to avoid holiday weight gain |
| Who doesn't love the smell of a warm kitchen during the holidays? They're designed around food and bringing family, old friends and new friends together. However, holidays can also be a detriment to your healthy lifestyle and cause you to lose your focus through the end of the year. Follow these tips to avoid holiday weight gain. |
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| The ultimate road trip |
| This season, Americans are embarking on all types of journeys, from romantic weekends to outdoor activity focused getaways. What defines the ultimate road trip? Hear what drivers have to say. |
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| Buying a garage door? Think insulation |
| There are seemingly endless options through which homeowners must navigate when buying a new garage door: the style, materials and accessories, just to name a few. But perhaps the most important feature that should top the garage door consumer's list is energy efficiency. |
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| Three simple tips to prepare your car for winter weather |
| As temperatures dip, it's important to prepare your car for harsh winter weather. Not only can the elements be hard on your vehicle, but the chemicals that are used to fight the elements such as road salt and chemical compounds to melt ice are as well. Being prepared and knowing how to take care of your vehicle can help you avoid costly repairs and will extend the life of your vehicle. |
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| 'Tis the season to entertain: A simple guide to artisanal wine and cheese pairings |
| Planning a get together with close friends or family this holiday season and fretting over what to serve? Regardless of theme or guest list, a delicious artisanal cheese and wine platter is a great way to start off any gathering. By following these simple guidelines, creating the perfect pairings can be one of the simplest things on your to-do list this holiday season. |
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| Caramel to cranberries: Holiday stain-busting tips keep carpets bright |
| Whether it's the ghouls trick-or-treating on Halloween, the gobbles of great food on Thanksgiving, or the gatherings of loved ones over the holiday season, you will likely be hosting an event at your home in the upcoming months. Food and friends make the perfect pairing for celebrations - but that can mean spills and splashes on carpets. There's no need to panic when you know the tricks the pros use to treat tough holiday carpet stains. |
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| Have difficult-to-shop-for people on your gift list? Unique gift ideas that 'wow' |
| When creating a holiday shopping list for gifts for friends and family, there is always at least one impossible-to-shop-for person on that list. Maybe they're the type of person who doesn't need anything, or are not involved in hobbies that cater easily to gift ideas. Whatever the reason, each holiday season you struggle to find the perfect gift to celebrate the season. |
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| Discover the hues that speak to you this holiday season |
| With the holidays just around the corner, excitement is starting to build around the new, bold colors trending for home decor and clothing. Infusing color on a grand scale or in the small details makes your personal surroundings and self-expression extra special when it matters the most. |
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| Fall allergies or falling prey to chronic asthma or COPD? |
| Twenty-two million Americans, many of whom are children, suffer from the frightening acute attacks and long-term disabilities of chronic asthma. Millions more adults face the increasing burdens and life-altering effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Managing these conditions effectively means truly understanding when and how to use the necessary medications. |
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| Fun home entertainment gifts for less than $100 |
| What do most people want for the holidays? Technology and home entertainment gifts are highly sought after, meaning gift-givers have plenty of opportunities to get an impressive present. If you think you need to spend a lot to get a great gift, think again. There are many great options for less than $100. |
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| Your go-to guide for elevator and escalator safety during the holidays |
| November and December are arguably the busiest months of the year for traveling and shopping. Millions of people descend on the nation's airports and shopping centers looking to create that perfect holiday memory. With all the excitement surrounding this time of year, the last thing Americans should worry about is escalator and elevator safety while navigating through the crowds. But while you may be more focused on your holiday to-do's, you need to remember some important safety tips about the elevators and escalators you are using. |
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| Five lawn care tips and projects to complete before winter |
| With the autumn season in full swing, there's no better time to watch leaves change colors, enjoy a hayride with family and friends, and indulge in a cup of hot apple cider. But, did you know it's also the perfect time to prepare your backyard for winter? |
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| Home improvement tricks to avoid the winter blues |
| Many triggers can affect our moods. From sights to sounds to smells - it's a sensory experience that we don't seem to have much control over. Or so we used to think. But with more research being done on exactly how these elements might affect our stress or happiness levels, we now have better insight on how to enhance our mood. This is good news for those looking to make home improvements. |
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| Can your morning cup of joe make the world a better place? |
| Can't start your day without a cup of coffee? You're not alone; 63 percent of adult Americans drink coffee every day, according to the 2012 National Coffee Association's National Coffee Drinking Trends study. All those cups of joe, however, can do more than give Americans the boost they need to wake up. They also have the potential to help coffee farmers around the world. |
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| Turn a new leaf with a fall family road trip |
| With the cooler temperatures of autumn flowing in, many Americans will be hitting the road to discover the natural beauty that the season brings. Whether they crave adventure, want to see the fall foliage or are just getting ready for the Thanksgiving holiday, families need to be prepared to ensure they are getting the most out of this travel season. |
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| DIY tips to check windows and doors and save on utility costs year-round |
| With temperatures dropping, now is a good time to improve your home's energy efficiency. Drafty windows and doors can dramatically increase heating and cooling costs. That's why it's important to perform a walk-around now, to verify that your windows are in working order, or if they need replacing. |
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| Buying technology for seniors this holiday season |
| Finding the perfect gift for mom and dad or grandma and grandpa often seems impossible. If they're like a lot of seniors, they're fairly well settled and don't have long wish lists. Plus, it seems that many of the hottest gift ideas are tech devices, certainly not something that would be of interest, right? Think again. |
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| Homemade alternatives to Halloween candy |
| Processed, sugar-packed candies are collected door-to-door every year at Halloween. This year, try a different angle with homemade sweet treats that parents can make with their kids for Halloween. |
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| Top trends for a fall wardrobe update |
| Fall fashion magazines can easily top 500 pages of skirts, tops, pants, coats and accessories; all deemed "must-haves" for the chilly weather ahead. The choices and trends can be staggering, but just because temperatures are falling doesn't mean you need to drop a small fortune on a new wardrobe. Fashion experts from share six of the top trends for fall and how you can use them to make the most of the pieces already in your closet. |
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| Allergies are one gift you don't want to share during the holidays |
| The holidays are a time when the decorations come out of storage, a live tree is brought inside adorned with lights and tinsel, and holiday scents fill the air. While this sounds like a warm and homey-style holiday, it can also cause watery eyes, runny noses and sneezes. Read on to learn how you can bypass these problems and enjoy a festive holiday season. |
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| Home improvement tips that instantly lower your energy bill |
| It's one piece of mail homeowners dread every month: the utility bill. Considering the average annual utility bill is $2,200, according to energystar.gov, it's no wonder homeowners cringe every time it arrives. What if you opened your bill and, to your surprise, it was lower than expected? With a few simple steps, that is possible, even when the temperature drops. |
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| Baking basics are a recipe for holiday success |
| Food is an integral part of many celebrations, and whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or a family get-together, chances are there's a baked good in attendance. Perhaps you're thinking of trying your hand at some family recipes you've never made before, or want to experiment with favorites from other holiday traditions. Whatever dish you make this holiday season, these baking basics help ensure success. |
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| Six steps to protect your vehicle and yourself this winter |
| Winter is here and now is the perfect time to prepare your vehicle for harsh driving conditions. Taking the time to prepare and protect your vehicles now, will save you significant time, money and hassle later. Here are a few tips for vehicle winterization and cold weather driving to ensure safe travels throughout the season. |
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| Avoid the flu this season: Tips for keeping your employees and business healthy |
| Each year the flu results in 75 million days of work absences and 200 million days of diminished productivity for businesses nationwide. Cumulatively, the flu costs businesses an estimated $6.2 billion in lost productivity each year, with small businesses proving to be no exception. To keep your staff healthy and business booming, here are some tips to avoid catching the flu this season. |
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| Practice makes perfect: a dress rehearsal for your turkey |
| The holidays are approaching and before you know it, you'll be thinking about that daunting task of cooking a turkey. This holiday season, make sure your bird impresses all the guests and relatives by conducting a dress rehearsal for your turkey. |
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| Seven simple tips for prepping your home for the holidays |
| There's something about the holiday season that makes gathering with family and friends extra special. But between the cooking, decorating and shopping, preparing for the holidays with that never-ending to-do list can be overwhelming. |
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| Gracious etiquette tips to survive holiday gatherings |
| Whether you are hosting a fantastic holiday gathering or you're the gracious guest, ask yourself this question: Are you comfortable with your knowledge of etiquette? Are you confident in your table manners or do you admit you take your cue by watching those around you? |
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| Enjoy special holiday meals that have great nutrition |
| The most wonderful time of the year always means great tasting food! From family gatherings to holiday parties, sweet treats and delicious meals are everywhere during the holidays, but that shouldn't prevent you from eating healthy. Whether it is a side dish, gingerbread cookies or turkey, you can still enjoy the best holiday meals while keeping your health in mind. |
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| Tips to spruce up your home for the holidays |
| Holidays are when most people open their homes for friends and family. Sharing the season's greetings is always the priority but these gatherings are also an opportunity to show off improvements made during the year. Fifty-two percent of homeowners plan to make home improvements this fall, according to the leading real estate website Zillow. It is also a great time of year for deals as retailers unload inventory to make room for new styles. |
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| Protect your credit while shopping this holiday season |
| The holiday season is a great time for merriment - finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones and gathering with friends and family to celebrate the season. However, the holidays can cause a strain on your credit if you don't take certain precautions. Don't let this year's celebration leave you with the credit blues come January. |
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| Small bites make holiday entertaining easier |
| Mouth-watering desserts in small bites are all the rage this holiday season. Guests love the idea of having lots of choices at holiday gatherings, so more options in smaller portions will be popular this year. |
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| To reduce Lyme disease risks, keep tick-carrying deer out of your yard |
| Colder weather's arrival means homeowners across the country brace themselves for the battle against bold, foraging deer. But with recent reports that Lyme disease - transmitted by ticks that live on deer - is even more prevalent than health officials once thought, keeping deer away from your backyard is not just a cosmetic or financial issue any more. Your success at deterring deer could directly affect your family's health. |
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| Hot cooking trends for cool weather foods |
| With the return of cool autumn weather, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting foods. But cold-weather cooking needn't be dull. This year, take your menu cues from restaurant and cooking trends to create fun fall foods your entire family will enjoy. |
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| The psychology of seasons: Caring for your mental health |
| When seasons change, moods can change with them. The long, dark and cold months can give people a serious case of cabin fever. Some people may even suffer from seasonal depression. Here's what you need to know about this serious condition. |
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| Home security tips to keep the holiday season merry and bright |
| During the holidays, family and friends will be gathering to share stories, hand out gifts and enjoy time spent together. It is also a season with houses left empty and large piles of valuable gifts often sitting out in plain sight through the windows - making this time of year ideal for would-be burglars. |
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| Simple steps to perfect slow-cooker meals |
| The slow cooker captures the essence of the season with the first sniff of simmering comfort food. Convenient, economical and versatile, slow cookers are becoming popular again. |
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| Tips and tricks for planning the perfect Halloween |
| Planning the perfect Halloween can be pretty spooky, and it's not just because of the ghosts and ghouls that run from door to door. Coordinating Halloween activities, planning a festive party and pulling off the perfect costume for each family member can be frightening. But with a few technology tricks, you'll be rewarded with a lot of treats and plenty of fun to make this holiday one to remember. |
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| Don't give up on skin during the colder months ahead |
| During the fall, when temperatures drop, skincare steps that were crucial during the hot summer months can often be overlooked because skin isn't as exposed. Instead of waiting until skin is uncomfortably dry and itchy, make sure you're moisturizing every day so skin stays soft, smooth and supple. And with all of the gatherings and parties that happen through fall and winter, you want to feel feel comfortable and confident in whatever you wear - whether it's a short cocktail dress or a sleeveless top. |
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| Technology to keep families connected and protected this season |
| It's the time of year when family schedules change and their daily routines reset. From coordinating calendars to handling additional demands such as homework and extracurricular activities, it can be a challenging, if not daunting, time for even the most organized family. |
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| Cozy up to energy savings with insulation |
| With temperatures dropping, odds are your energy bills will be doing just the opposite. In fact, heating (and cooling) account for approximately 54 percent of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, according to the Department of Energy, representing the largest energy expense for most homeowners. One of the most effective ways to manage a home's climate, comfort and energy costs is by ensuring that it is properly insulated. |
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| Dark chocolate: the new dessert |
| If you are looking for a treat to complement your next meal, consider dark chocolate. A little goes a long way, making it the perfect choice to fit a balanced lifestyle. |
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| Party-planning tips to make a happy host |
| Every host knows the elements of a great party - fantastic food and beverages, just the right balance of sophistication and fun, and decor that speaks to the season and theme of your soiree. In the right combination, those ingredients ensure guests will have a great time. But what about your good time? Staging a party should be every bit as sweet for you as attending it is for your guests. |
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| Daring pairings: matching food and wine for the perfect Valentine's Day meal |
| Whether you're a trained chef or simply enjoy cooking at home, there's always a certain amount of trepidation at the thought of having guests for dinner. Do you go out on a culinary limb and serve something impressively daring, or do you play it safe with a tried and true menu? If you decide to take a chance, how daring are you? And, if your menu is an adventure for the taste buds, what wine do you pair with it? |
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| Preparation is key when driving in winter weather |
| Driving during the cold winter months can have a hazardous effect on commuting motorists and their passengers. Even the most experienced drivers may find the simplest errand a tough feat, especially if their vehicles are not properly prepared for the challenging conditions winter often brings. Follow these steps to stay safe while driving during tough winter conditions. |
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