Professional grilling tips for the perfect backyard barbecue

Grilling season has arrived. The unique flavors of sizzling meat on a hot grill are loved by Americans young and old. Whether you're an enthusiastic foodie or a simple family chef, it's time to get outside and perfect the art of the barbecue. If you're new to grilling, it's easy to make some wrong turns. No one wants to end up with dried out chicken, burnt steak or flavorless ribs. When you're cooking, keep in mind a few tips from the pros. Read More

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment

Allergens lurk inside and outside your home, causing more than 40 million Americans with allergies to cough, sneeze and have itchy eyes all year long, especially in springtime. And, for 25 million Americans with asthma it can be even more problematic. You'd assume cleaning your home would help reduce these allergy triggers, but if you're not cleaning the right way, you could actually be making the problem worse. Read More

Decorative painting: How to transform a room with a few simple strokes

Paint can do more than change the color of a room - it can add texture, pattern and visual interest. Today's decorative painting techniques are simple and sophisticated alternatives to wallpaper, and a far cry from the dated sponge painting from years past. Whether you're a painting pro or a DIY beginner, here's how you can transform a room with a few simple strokes. Read More

Just the right size: How to shop online

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

Game on! What games should kids play?

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

Nationwide diabetes education events create awareness, promote healthy living

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. It can also be overwhelming caring for someone with diabetes. Read More

Seven things to know before tackling your 2011 tax return

Individuals and businesses spend more than 7 billion hours a year complying with federal tax-filing requirements, according to the Internal Revenue Service. To reduce the amount of time you spend, and maybe how much you owe, follow these seven tips. Read More

In retirement, how will you use your nest egg?

Determining how to manage your nest egg during retirement can seem daunting without proper guidance. Here are some tips to get you thinking about your retirement income strategy. Read More

Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products

Although smoking is often touted as an expensive habit, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to aid in quitting smoking can seem like an expensive purchase as well. The reluctance to spend money on smoking cessation products leads many smokers to try to do it "cold turkey" - the most popular method for quitting smoking, but also one that frequently leads to relapse. However, the use of NRT products to quit smoking can almost triple a smoker's chances of success. Read More

Easy, affordable weekend spruce-up projects you can tackle this spring

When it comes to home improvement, most of us have two "to-do" lists: the things we need to do, such as paint the shutters and clean out gutters, and the list of those we want to do, such as fun and easy projects that add visual interest or practical enhancements to the outdoors. Since our budgets for both lists are usually limited, it makes sense to seek out projects that are easy, affordable and that create the most impact in a short amount of time. Read More

The stinky truth about a common pest

Warmer, longer days, flowers blooming, birds chirping and the onset of the garden season are all glorious signs that cold weather is behind us. And, while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Mother Nature at work is refreshing, the good does bring a few, less-than-ideal issues - a major one being stink bugs. Unfortunately, this year may see the largest population of stink bugs across the U.S. to date thanks to the very mild winter weather pattern most of the country experienced. Read More

Volunteering: small acts, big change

For many communities across the country, the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Whether it's working at a local soup kitchen, visiting a nursing home, mentoring youth, or helping to paint a local house in disrepair, there are many ways to get involved. Read More

Retirement planning dos and don'ts

As with most things in life, it's never too early to plan. And even if you are not at the doorstep of retirement, there are some critical dos and don'ts related to retirement planning, that anyone could benefit from. Read More

Home improvement for your health

When considering home improvements, people tend to choose projects that will improve the value of their home. While this is important for a healthy bottom line, investing in the health of those living inside the home also is a value-added improvement. Having the right fitness equipment and resources at home can turn the best intentions to work up a sweat into a successfully completed workout. Read More

Gift wrapping tips: Fashionable and functional ways to make packages extra special

The warm weather seasons are well stocked with special occasions. Whether you're saying best wishes at a friend's wedding or offering congratulations to a recent grad, it's easy to make your gift the brightest in the pile. Follow these simple tips to inspire your imagination and you'll create gift wrapping that's as special and personal as the present inside. Read More

Pitch in and tackle do-it-together home improvement projects

Why do-it-yourself (DIY) when you can do-it-together? Now DIYers are teaming up with friends, families or companies to tackle home improvement and spring-cleaning projects. Read More

Taking control of your cancer diagnosis

Celebrity status not required: Four simple tips to get boating

Flipping through a celebrity magazine, it's easy to spot stars on exotic getaways, enjoying the water aboard a megayacht. But, boating isn't just for the rich and famous - you don't have to be a millionaire to get out on the water. Read More

How to brand your business and position it for success

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

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better quick. Read More

Your money: Last-minute tax tips

Are you among the millions of Americans who scramble every year to meet Uncle Sam's income tax filing deadline? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that one-third of Americans wait until the last minute to file their personal income tax returns (for 2011 income tax returns, the deadline has been extended to April 17). If you count yourself among that group, it's important to realize the costs could be adding up - from missing important deductions that could affect the amount of your refund to incurring penalties from the IRS for not filing on time. Read More

Five must-have fitness tools

Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level. Read More

Tips for making your home green and healthy

Creating a green environment at home may sound challenging to some, but a few simple changes in household routines can benefit the environment, as well as the health of your family. Read More

Where can you find the best barbecue this Memorial Day?

Memorial Day marks the first long weekend of summer, and it is the perfect opportunity to kick off the season with a trip. Weekend getaways and barbecue are practically synonymous with summer, so why not combine the two? Here are some of the best areas around the country to discover whether you like your barbecue pulled, sliced, shredded, wet or dry. Read More

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going

As the sun stays in the sky longer and temperatures warm up, being more active is simply second-nature. Getting outdoors gives a new vitality to any exercise routine, whether you're kicking off training for your first 5K or maintaining a program you've enjoyed for years. Read More

Seven ways to help jumpstart your retirement plan

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

The home improvement that will put your room redesign over the top

You repainted, replaced all the furniture and just finished recarpeting that room that needed a little design TLC. Still looking for the final touch to add drama to your room's transformation? Read More

Tips to keep your vehicle safe and looking great this summer

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

Plumbing pro tells how to install an extra bath with less cost, noise and mess

So, you've finally decided to take the plunge and add that much-needed extra bathroom. Smart idea! According to the 2011-2012 Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report, an added bath will return more than 50 percent of your investment at resale. So what should you do to make sure your money is well spent? Read More

Tips for planning a safe and healthy honeymoon

Your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life. So why not accompany it with the best vacation of your life? Your honeymoon is not only a great chance to take the trip of a lifetime; it's also the perfect opportunity to connect to your new spouse through a shared and unforgettable experience. Read More

Financial tips for new graduates

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

Meet your perfect (money) match

Take your home from dreary to cheery with a fresh coat of paint

Spring is upon us and so is the time for spring cleaning and sprucing up the house. What's a quick and easy way to make a room look instantly cleaner and brighter? Add a fresh coat of paint. But don't think this project will be a long and laborious one - with a little planning and the right products, it's as easy as one-two-three. Read More

How to make sure your indoor air is healthy

As soon as the temperatures warm up, you open up the doors and windows and let the "fresh" air in. Many people go on a cleaning spree, vacuuming, dusting and getting rid of all the dust bunnies hiding under furniture. With a fresh, clean house, you assume you'll be breathing much easier. Think again. Here's what every homeowner should know. Read More

Job-seeking tips for designers: How to appeal to potential employers

For college graduates entering the design fields, in particular aspiring interactive media and Web designers, a job search that ends well starts with socializing. Communicating and networking - in person, not just social networking online - is an important way for students to start building a foundation for their careers. Read More

Breakfast can be exciting: The proof is in the pudding

Pancake sandwiches, chicken and waffles, egg casseroles -- breakfast seems to be inspiring creativity and breaking barriers morning, noon and night. The only challenge the most important meal of the day has is its designated time slot. Read More

Saving money top of mind for cloth-diapering families

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

Natalie Coughlin gears up for the Games

Have you ever wondered how the top athletes stay in such great shape? Wonder no more - Gold Medalist and World Champion swimmer Natalie Coughlin is sharing her top training tips - from stretching to eating. Read More

Elevate the traditional wedding with contemporary flair

If long-standing wedding traditions seem a little confining and out of date for your modern nuptial celebration, you're not alone. Lifestyles are trending toward practical and tasteful simplification. An easy-going elegance and a balance of formality and fun is now the norm. So you might ask, "How can creative couples introduce more contemporary options to their celebrations yet still craft a memorable, classy wedding?" Read More

Where will you 'goal' on your summer vacation?

Competitive events flourish during the summer. If you run, mountain bike, water ski, swim, rock climb or otherwise enjoy outdoor activities, you have the opportunity to do something bold this season. Why not plan your summer vacation around a goal instead of a destination? Read More

Avoiding five mistakes that even good homeowners make

Have you ever accidentally left a candle burning unattended? Or left home without turning on the security system? You probably made a mental note to yourself to not do it again, but otherwise didn't think much about it. But next time, you might not get so lucky. A simple "uh oh" could lead to thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Here are five tips to avoid common homeowner mistake. Read More

Do-it-yourself deck-building tips

Looking for a way to enhance the use and enjoyment of your outdoor space? A deck addition may be the solution. A deck creates a designated area for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, while increasing homeowner satisfaction and home value. If you're a motivated do-it-yourselfer, building your own deck can be a fun and rewarding challenge that saves you money and ensures your outdoor space is tailored to suit you and your home. Read More

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms

Spring-like temperatures arrived early this year, and with them came early allergy symptoms for many: itchy throats and eyes, stuffy noses, sneezing, teary eyes and more. These developments come on the heels of the fourth warmest winter since record keeping began, according to the U.S. National Climatic Data Center. Read More

Hot trends for spring home improvement projects

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

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

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

Choose a certified installer to create curb appeal with confidence

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

Get motivated with smartphones

If you're setting a goal for this semester, make it a double: be productive and engaged, all while staying socially connected on campus. Smartphones let you do it all, from staying on top of your academic work and never missing a social event to helping to nail down the perfect internship opportunity. Read More

Protect workplace information to keep businesses, customers safe

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

Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality

Nearly 90 percent of American homes have hard water - water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium, according to The U.S. Geological Survey. If your shampoo and soap don't lather up like they should, if you see scaling on your pipes and showerheads or if you have nasty brown rings in your sinks and toilets, your water is probably hard. To know exactly how hard, and what to do about it, you should have your water diagnosed by a water quality professional. Read More

It's never too early or too late to take control of your finances

"Silly season" - the months of campaigning that lead up to a presidential election - is well under way, and it's a sure bet the country's money, finances and spending habits will be favorite issues for politicos of all persuasions. But while the debate and rhetoric is sure to be heated on both sides of the political fence, taking control of finances - specifically, your personal ones - is something worth considering this year. Remember, it's never too early or too late to take control of your finances. Read More

Secrets to online shopping: How to access the best designer deals

How your smartphone can help you care for your car

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

The secret to successful dating: Know yourself first

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

Adapt your vehicle and driving habits to combat rising gas prices

Just as Americans are gearing up for warm-weather road trips and family vacations, prices at the gas pump are rising. For most people, driving is essential for getting to work, taking kids to school and going out to have some fun, so filling up the tank is a non-negotiable expense. However, costs add up quickly as fuel prices climb higher, taking up more of your budget. Read More

Daring creativity blooms in this season's floral decor

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

Five expert tips for a five-star wedding experience

The average couple shells out nearly $27,000 just to say their "I do's," according to a recent survey. That doesn't include the cost of the honeymoon, either. If you're spending that kind of money, shouldn't your unforgettable wedding be a five-star event? Read More

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

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

Achieve your ideal life, one goal at a time

Are you living your ideal life? If not, you're not alone. In fact, you are among the vast majority of people worldwide. Here are some proven strategies us that can help you plan and achieve more than you ever thought possible Read More

Save money on your spring travel plans

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

Five lighting tips to make your everyday photos shine

Mexican food pairings inspired by today's hot flavor trends

The summer party season has officially begun, meaning it's time to plan fun get-togethers with family and friends. Food is central to any great celebration, but you don't need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a unique and tasty menu. You simply need some great tips and easy tricks for pairing tasty food with refreshing drinks and party success will come naturally. Read More

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

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

Summer entertaining: Spend less time preparing, more time enjoying

There's no question why summer is the best-loved season of the year: it's all about fun, relaxation and enjoying the beautiful outdoors. So, it follows that homeowners don't want to waste a minute of those glorious months of sunshine. When planning traditional summer get-togethers, save time by taking steps to ensure that your outdoor spaces are as low-maintenance as possible so that the focus is on the party, rather than the prep. Read More

Love and relationships: Setting expectations essential before unmarried couples commit to living together

It has become the new norm: Unmarried couples deciding to live together. In fact, the number of unmarried, opposite-sex couples who shared the same living quarters jumped by 13 percent, to 7.5 million, in 2010 over 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of same-sex couples living together is about 620,000. Read More

Brooke Burke-Charvet manages work, life and family with allergies

Every year, an estimated 40 million Americans suffer from indoor and outdoor allergies, and managing everyday life can be challenging when also faced with troublesome symptoms, like sneezing and itchy, watery eyes. Read More

Digital cameras: creating masterpieces with each click

With warm weather luring us outside for fun outdoor activities, using a digital camera ensures timeless memories with family and friends are captured in a snap. Even with increased smartphone usage, - a recent Consumer Electronics Association report stated that 43 percent of consumers have used a smartphone in the past year to capture images - digital cameras remain the most common devices for capturing photos, with 73 percent having used a digital camera over the same time period. There are many reasons why a dedicated digital camera captures the best photos. Read More

Choose the right homeowner's insurance for your lifestyle

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

A beginner's guide for understanding the role of gold in your financial future

Throughout these past several turbulent years, you have likely heard about investing in gold. Even with the increased exposure gold investments have received - as well as its place as one of the oldest ways people have accumulated and protected wealth - many Americans are still in the dark about the basic reasons why investing in this precious metal is important to their future. Read More

What every homeowner should know about ceiling fans

Ceiling fans are the jacks-of-many-trades, useful in nearly every home space and in virtually every decor. They are also a necessary element for homeowners looking to cut utility bills. If you need a new ceiling fan, it's easy to get lost in the many available options, which is why some tips from lighting professionals can be helpful. Read More

Simple projects to spruce up the look of your home

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

Give grass a fresh start this spring

Grass is an extraordinary plant, the unsung hero of backyards everywhere. With proper care and feeding, grass can help clean the air, cool the ground, reduce erosion and provide one of the softest outdoor play surfaces. With all of these amazing benefits, it pays to start the spring season off right by giving grass a boost. Read More

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies

For many, spring signifies the budding of flowers and longer days filled with warm sunshine. But for one in five people, spring also means allergies are in full swing. Whether you're affected year-round or during a specific season, learning how to manage allergy symptoms can be vital to restoring your comfort and quality of life. Read More

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine

Eating right and exercising are the two most important elements of a healthy lifestyle. We hear it time and again that these simple principles hold more power than the latest fad diet, and for those who heed the advice, the proof is in the results. However, it's not always easy to figure out what's really good for you in the process of building - or maintaining - a healthy body. Read More

Let your hobby guide you to your perfect travel destination

With so many choices in travel destinations, sometimes it's best to plan a vacation around your passion. Read More

Fresh herbs all year make for great entertaining

Turkey salad with fresh tarragon, crostini spread with homemade pesto and a refreshing mint mojito on a hot summer day. What do these things have in common? Fresh herbs. Whether cooking for a family, entertaining friends after work, or having a romantic cocktail with that special someone, fresh herbs can be the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. Read More

Teachers deserve recognition for all their hard work

Teachers touch the lives of thousands of children throughout their careers. A good teacher can help a child who hates math learn to love numbers, a shy child become a social butterfly or enable a child who can't read to learn the wonder of books. If you have children in school, you know firsthand how hard their teacher consistently works to ensure they learn, have fun and grow. Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7 to May 11 - this is the perfect time to thank your children's teachers for the important role they play in your lives. Read More

New job skills can increase your chances of being hired

Many Americans are involved in prolonged job searches these days. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting the unemployment rate still hovering around 8 percent at the end of April 2012, competition among job seekers can be daunting. This is a good time to evaluate your viability in the job market, beginning with an assessment of your skills. Read More

Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer

Windows do a lot more than just let the light in and keep the weather out. They're both key elements in your home's overall design and in the unique look of each individual room. If you're redecorating for warm weather, updating your window treatments is a great, cost-effective way to completely change the look of a space. Read More

Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence

Your growing child needs love and attention to help build confidence to continue to try and succeed at new things. From learning how to read, preparing for grade school to being able to ride their first two-wheel bike, it's the positivity from Mom and Dad that keep kids striving for more. Sometimes kids transition with ease to the next stage in development, and other times may experience a few bumps in the road prolonging transition. One of those areas where a child might need an extra boost of confidence is when they are experiencing an issue with wetting the bed at night. Read More

Going green has never been more high tech

Think going green will cost too much or take too much time? You might be surprised at how much time, energy and money you can save by making a few changes in your home to make it more energy efficient. And don't worry that it will be too much work because some new high tech tools are making it easier than ever. Read More

Upgrade your summer with an outdoor living do-it-yourself project

Nothing says warm weather quite like backyard barbecues and pool parties. But if your outdoor living space doesn't quite make the grade, you might consider building a dream deck with your own two hands. Do-it-yourselfers not only save money in labor costs, but they also reap the pride and satisfaction of improving and adding value to their homes. Read More

Sites working to inspire real life change

Whether your goal is personal or a desire to change something in society, you have to begin somewhere - otherwise you may never begin at all. It can feel daunting, even paralyzing, to tackle a major project. But the best place to start is at the beginning, and often that means making small changes. Read More

In a changing travel climate, travel agents reclaim the spotlight

Recent years have been revolutionary for the travel industry. The democratization of booking tickets and vacations turned the traditional model on its head - instead of going to an agent, consumers could suddenly book everything with a few clicks. But that was then - today's travel landscape is evolving in new ways, some of which have travelers reassessing the value of DIY planning versus enlisting a travel agent. Read More

What NASCAR can teach you about making marriage work

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

Real estate: Tips on buying and financing your first home

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

To rid your garden of weeds, focus on the seeds

Every garden is filled with them: millions of unseen weeds. They are dormant seeds that lurk just below the soil surface, ready to spring to life with just the briefest exposure to light. Weeds can choke a garden, robbing it of space, nutrients and water. Allowing weeds to mature compounds the problem, as they are naturally prolific seed producers. They grow aggressively and can be tough to get rid of, because pulling weeds brings more weed seeds to the surface. The good news is that seeds can also be key to winning the war on garden weeds. Read More

Resolutions small business owners should keep all year long

Graduating? Career trends job-seeking students should know

Students graduating from college this year should expect better job opportunities and salaries than graduates from recent history, but that doesn't mean new graduates will have an easy time finding employment. Competition will still be fierce with hundreds of applications submitted for jobs in many industries, both from new graduates and former graduates still looking for work. If you're planning on graduating soon and seeking career opportunities, here are some employment trends to be aware of. Read More

Despite setbacks, swimmer takes head-first approach to reaching Paralympic gold

By 10 a.m., Anna Johannes has crossed more off of her daily to-do list than most strive to accomplish in a week. As a swimmer with her eyes set on the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, every moment of her day counts as she balances training, practice, taking college courses and completing homework assignments. Read More

Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women

While heart disease continues to receive a lot of attention, certain myths surrounding the disease persist. A couple of the most common myths are that heart disease is more common in men than women, and that the first signs of a heart attack are the same for both men and women. Read More

Why your beauty routine should go beyond one bottle

The radiance of youthful skin is something that everyone is lucky enough to have at some point. But as the years pass, that nature-given glow tends to dull and slacken, leaving most people searching for a way to recapture that look. The booming cosmetic and skincare business produces plenty of one-jar wonders that promise radical results, but many of them don't deliver. Dermatology experts know, however, that taking a broader approach to caring for your skin is the optimal way to get results. Read More

How to turn must-do home improvements into things of beauty

When it comes to home improvement, you can spend money in two basic ways: on things that make your home look better and things that make it function better. When "want to" and "have to" meet, they create the opportunity to make a smart buying decision - and choose an upgrade that will look good and improve the livability of your home. The key to making smart home improvement decisions is to recognize these opportunities and take full advantage of them. Read More

Eclectic design trends breathe new life into your room

The newest interior design trends are invoking a playful vibe into rooms by mixing and matching different styles for an eclectic, fun look. According to "ELLE Decor," home decorating is shifting toward a more theatrical and eclectic decorating style highlighting richer colors, layers of textures and patterns and a fusion of time periods, styles and atmosphere. Read More

Top deck trends for summer 2012

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

Replace or repair? That's the home improvement question

Maintenance and improvement are both essential realities of home ownership. From windows and skylights to gas ranges and front doors, everything in your home will eventually need some work. But how do you know when something simply needs repair, or merits being replaced? Read More

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly

Who's responsible for keeping infants safe from gear-related injury? Is it gear-makers, who must meet stringent manufacturing codes, perform strict mandatory government safety testing, and submit to oversight by safety-focused government agencies? Or are parents responsible? The answer, experts agree, is: both. Read More

Five money-saving moves for smartphone users

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

You can help provide comfort to hospitalized children and families

Each year in the United States, millions of American children are hospitalized and must face the challenges of overcoming illness while staying in unfamiliar hospital environments. The physical and emotional toll can be extensive for children whose illnesses require a long hospitalization, as well as for their families whose only wish is for their child to be healthy. You can bring comfort to these families during difficult times. Here are some ideas for how you can make a difference. Read More

Five travel photography tips for your next vacation

Nine out of 10 people are planning to take two or more leisure trips this year, according to TripAdvisor's 2012 Travel Trends Forecast survey. Of these travelers, 42 percent are planning cultural trips that combine precious downtime with enriching experiences. But no matter where or why people take trips this year, travelers can make their getaways more memorable and share their experiences with great photos. Read More