Lifestyle & Trends - How To
Expert tips and affordable tricks for planning summer parties
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Warm sun, fresh air, soft grass - the summer season is the perfect reason to plan a festive gathering with friends and family. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply spending time with the special people in your life, a few tips and tricks can help you plan a fun party without breaking the bank.
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Is it time for a financial checkup?
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For most of us, checkups are a regular part of life. Dental visits, auto maintenance appointments and even glances in the bathroom mirror all help us catch potential problems and assure that all is - or will be - well. What's true of teeth, engines and grooming is also true of finances: regular checkups are recommended.
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Color, texture and more: Vinyl continues to be America's most-installed siding
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While vinyl siding has historically been the most-used siding material in the U.S., its continuing advancements are allowing even more choice when it comes to two critical qualities desired by homeowners: outstanding curb appeal and low maintenance. Add to this to the growing interest by homeowners to save energy and the increasing green measures being taken by builders, and insulated vinyl siding stands out as a versatile choice.
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What to look for when buying a zero-turn mower
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Ever wonder how those lawn-care guys get so much done in a day? They use zero-turn radius mowers that can significantly trim the time and effort involved in cutting grass. If you have a large yard to cut, a zero-turn mower can make your task quicker and easier.
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How to ace your next job interview
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Making it to the job interview stage means your skill set and resume have caught the interest of a potential employer, who now wants to determine if you'll be a good fit as an employee of a company. Acing the interview is essential if you want to convince the employer that you're the right person for the job.
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Rattling down the highway? What those common car noises mean
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"What is that rattling? Is it serious?" We all can get a little paranoid about a new sound our car is making. Those sounds can certainly be annoying, but what people don't realize is sometimes those sounds may be linked to something more serious.
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A guy's guide to being smooth [Infographic]
Serving God and your country: Be the one service members seek to provide constant spiritual guidance both at home and overseas
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Whatever their backgrounds, beliefs and duties, Sailors have religious needs that must be met while they are answering the call to serve their country. They need guidance, moral support and worship opportunities - services especially critical to help guide them through the challenges of the job and family life.
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Digging soon? Call 811 first for safety's sake
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With winter forgotten and spring in the air, many homeowners are packing away their snow boots and rolling up their sleeves to get started on long-awaited home improvement projects. Across the country, homeowners and professionals alike will plan landscaping and home-improvement projects this season that require digging.
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Low-maintenance exterior upgrades that add value and style to your home
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Sunny days and clear skies are perfect for making exterior home improvements. Homeowners want to use their time and money wisely, so it's important to choose projects that are low-maintenance and have a good return on investment. Consider these top exterior projects that will increase your home's value and curb appeal. And, because they're low-maintenance, you'll get more time to enjoy the beauty of the season.
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The evolution of accounting: new careers in the language of business
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Numbers span all languages and cultures, creating what is known as the language of business: accounting. The earliest accounting records date back thousands of years to the use of an abacus, a rudimentary counting tool. As the workplace has progressed, so has the role of the accounting professional. This has been particularly evident in recent years; the integration of technology in accounting has created many specializations and job opportunities within the field - from forensic accounting to health care IT auditors.
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What to do with all this stuff? Moving tips for newlyweds
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Wedding day traditions vary ever so slightly from decade to decade based on music, fashion and cultural change. However, today's newlyweds have a distinct issue that their parents probably didn't face a quarter century ago - which sectional couch stays, and which one goes?
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Tips for traveling solo
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Is there such a thing as a typical traveler? Not anymore. Travelers run the gamut in age, interests, preferences, likes and dislikes. For couples, families and solo travelers alike, travel preferences have never been so diverse. Nor has the world of travel been so accessible and appealing. And, if you're thinking about traversing the world as a solo traveler, there's never been a better time to go.
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Stylish stairs: Five can-do ideas that add personality
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Stairs are no longer just a way to get from one floor to another. Realizing that staircases are quite often major focal points in their homes, homeowners are showing love to this once underappreciated space with a wide variety of creative and easy updates. Add personality and perk-up the daily climb in your home with these five do it yourself projects.
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Top technology trends for 2013 that make your life easier
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Whether you are a college student, working parent or empty-nester, modern life has never been busier. Luckily, a variety of technology innovations are dramatically affecting the way we live, helping us streamline our routines, reduce stress and maximize each minute of the day. Which new technologies are proving to be indispensable?
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Give your small business a social facelift
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Small businesses that adopt online marketing strategies see significant business benefits, ranging from improved campaign performance to higher return on investment (ROI), according to a recent study conducted by Forrester. However, small businesses are likely still favoring newspaper advertising and direct mail, which are time-intensive and costly.
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Tips for motorcycle riders: Hit the road and ride responsibly
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Freedom. The open road. There's nothing quite like the big sky ahead of you and feeling the rumble of your motorcycle. It's motorcycle season across the United States and Canada. Warm weather accompanied by clear roads means it's time to seek adventure, even if that means ditching your car for your daily commute to and from work. But before heading out, motorcyclists should take heed, because in our automobile and truck-dominated society the odds are not on the side of motorcyclist. Consider this advice.
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Spring fling must-haves
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Spring provides the perfect opportunity to host a party and show off all of the hard work you've put into your lawn and garden. Before your first guest arrives, make sure you have made all the preparations for your blooms to blossom, your garden to grow and your outdoor space to be pest free.
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Tips to navigate the real estate landscape and find the perfect home
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For most Americans your home is the biggest ticket item you will ever purchase. It's no wonder that people can take months, and sometimes even years, to find the perfect home. When you walk into a house that's on the market, many times the homeowner or real estate agent has "staged" it to ensure that you focus on the home's greatest assets and overlook its flaws. Your job is to look past all that to see if this house is right for you.
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Travel: cruising 101
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If you're thinking of taking a cruise, there are a lot of options to consider, from the cruise line and style to the destinations, vacation length and types of on-board amenities. Cruising is a fun (and economical) way to see several places in a relatively short amount of time without having to unpack and repack every day. While some "hard-core" travelers may scoff at cruises, don't knock it till you've tried it.
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Backyard oasis planning made easy
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Hooray for a holiday. You've got the day off, you've sent out the backyard barbecue invite and all your nearest and dearest are coming over to eat, drink and be merry. So, what's next? Whether you're a seasoned entertaining pro or a new host,here are some tips to make your backyard an oasis for a long holiday or any weekend.
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Body hair styling: what women want [Infographic]
Set yourself up for the perfect season of outdoor entertaining
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As temperatures warm, many of us can't wait to get outside and rediscover the joys of our outdoor spaces. One of the best ways to ensure the enjoyment of your space all season long is with some spring cleaning and upkeep of your yard and outdoor living spaces.
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Creating the perfect sleep environment this spring
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Everyone, including moms and doctors, can agree that a good night of sleep is necessary for good health, high energy, and an individual's overall well-being. Not getting enough good sleep - or rapid eye movement sleep - can affect the mind and body's ability to react appropriately to outside factors, the National Sleep Foundation reports.
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Staying at the top of your game
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We feel our best when we do our best. At the top of our game is where we all want to be. This is as true in the workplace as it is on the basketball court. But to stay at the top of your game at work and in life, you need to stay primed - ready for that next big play. It requires staying alert; keeping your skills sharp; and hearing your best. That's right - hearing your best. Listening is one of the top skills employers look for in those being promoted.
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Shrug off that winter chill with smart home improvement projects
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Spring is drawing nearer and, for homeowners, now is the time to shrug off the winter chill and think about home improvement plans. Building industry experts say that it's an ideal time to carefully consider and prioritize your plans - both cosmetic and structural.
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Entice buyers into your home with aromatic scents
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When a home smells good, it makes a favorable impression on visitors. This is exactly what home sellers want when they put their house on the market.
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Quick tips for getting the most out of your smartphone camera
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Today, the majority of adults have a mobile phone, and we're using it for far more things than simply making phone calls. According to a 2012 report from The Pew Research Center's Internet & American Life Project, of the 85 percent of American adults who own a cellphone, 85 percent use their cellphones to take photos. With a few tips and tricks, you'll be able to take amazing photos with your phone's camera and impress your friends.
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Save time and money with easy DIY auto maintenance tips
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Vehicles are a big investment for families - usually the second highest valued item in a household after the home itself. While the purchase price for cars, trucks and SUVs keeps going up, the cost of maintenance is holding steady or even dropping for most vehicles. Better materials, sophisticated computers and other advances increase reliability and allow less frequent oil changes, tune-ups and other service.
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Dull, brittle locks? Follow the 4 expert rules for strong, beautiful hair
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For years, women have been working at the ends of hair, rather than the foundation - the scalp. Now, it is time to start working at the right end of hair. Follow these top rules from the experts to get strong, beautiful hair.
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Summer garden glory without the weeding and watering
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Summer can be tough on gardens. In what should be their glory days, many gardens suffer from neglect. Long weekends and summer vacations leave yards untended, while summer heat is an excuse for putting off chores. But it doesn't have to be that way. It's possible to have both a glorious well-maintained garden and time for fun in the sun by taking some smart gardening steps now.
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Brooke Burke-Charvet takes on a challenge for allergy relief
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For many, spring's warmer weather is welcomed with spending more time outside. But for allergy sufferers, the season can mean facing symptoms that make them look and feel bad.
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Five must-haves for your new truck
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With a brand new truck decorating your driveway, you've probably got plenty of ideas of how you're going to use it for towing a boat, transporting large and heavy loads and conquering rugged terrain. Or maybe you just want to feel powerful while driving it down the road. But before you get too comfortable, think about what could make your truck even better. What can you add that will help your truck last longer, handle more tasks and look even stronger?
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Dogged by pricey pet care? Cost-cutting tips for pet owners
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These days, everyone is searching for ways to save money and stretch budgets. Consumer experts advise people to sniff out deeper discounts, saving opportunities and additional ways to cut costs. For pet owners, it can feel challenging to cut costs without compromising on care.
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Take control and mitigate mold growth in your home
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Damp, dark areas of the home, such as an unfinished basement, can often be trouble spots for homeowners hoping to increase their living space. Left unfinished, these areas of the home can potentially suffer significant damage, be prone to flooding or develop mold. When it comes to home improvement, homeowners are wise to consider the affects of moisture and mold buildup and how they can be combated.
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Your first resume - dos and don'ts
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If you're heading out into the workforce for the first time, there's plenty of prep work to do. An employer's first impression of you could very well be your resume. Here are some tips that might help.
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Building project tips to ensure a successful and smooth build
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Joey Logano, driver of the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Fusion, recently started a huge project: building a race shop for his cars and equipment from the ground up. After deciding to build his own shop, Logano purchased a piece of land and started digging. The massive undertaking brought with it its own trials and learnings, but in the end, Logano took measures to build safely and securely. The project resulted in an impressive race shop that will be used for years to come.
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Impromptu party planning: How to create great gatherings in 30 minutes or less
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Parents have never been more crunched for time. Balancing work demands with parental duties is complex - 56 percent of working moms and 50 percent of working dads say they find it very or somewhat difficult to balance these responsibilities, according to a 2013 report about modern parenthood from the Pew Research Center. But just because you're time strapped doesn't mean you need to stress when it comes time to host after-school activities or weekend gatherings with friends and family. With a few key strategies, even impromptu parties are a snap to pull together.
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National Infant Immunization Week: a reminder of the importance of vaccination for children
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Immunizations have had an enormous impact in helping to improve the health of children in the United States, according the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While vaccination has helped to reduce many childhood diseases, some of these diseases still exist and could reappear if vaccination coverage wanes.
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Sell your home faster with these cost-effective staging tips
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Appearances count, especially when you're trying to sell a home. Even though the housing industry experts predict this spring will be a seller's market, it's important to grab every advantage when you're trying to sell your home. Staging - decorating a house to appeal to the broadest possible range of buyers - can make the difference between a quick sale or a long, painful linger on the market.
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Pregnancy can be a beautiful thing
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The big news that a baby is on the way is a time for celebration, excitement and planning. Many couples choose to keep this information quiet for the first couple of months, so they can celebrate the upcoming change in their life together. But sometimes, morning sickness for the mom-to-be can let the news out of the bag earlier than intended.
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To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference
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For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they're cared for. Having a bowl of grandma's famous soup or your aunt's special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families' home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones.
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Give your home a fresh look with color
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A fresh coat of paint can give any room an instant lift, making it a great solution for converting a space from drab to fab.
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The wedding shoe trend for everyone: pain-free and pretty
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Sparkles, spangles and color, new or vintage, whatever your preference in wedding shoe styles there's one trend that every bride should get behind: comfort. Here is some advice for choosing the most comfortable options in some popular wedding styles.
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Don't miss a beat this college basketball season
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The college basketball tournament is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball fans across the country, so much so that workplace productivity takes a nosedive. Whether you're watching from your desk or from your couch, the following tips can help you stay in the know this season and help make you the MVP among your friends and co-workers.
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How to be the buyer every seller wants to deal with
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If you're shopping for a home this spring and summer, chances are you'll face increased competition from other buyers. So how do you ensure you not only land the home of your dreams, but get the best possible price from the seller and the best possible mortgage deal from your lender? By becoming the buyer every homeowner wants to sell to - a financially stable, credit-worthy, pre-approved purchaser.
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Think outside the fuse box: Unique energy-saving home improvements
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When you've covered the basic and obvious ways to trim energy use at home, it's time to start thinking outside the fuse box. Here are three unique home improvements that can help make your house even more energy-efficient.
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Three stress-free tricks to refresh your home from floor to ceiling
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Spring is the time of year for renewal. So, it's no surprise that springtime finds most people planning to rejuvenate their spaces. Follow these three tips to give your home a stress-free, springtime makeover.
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Go green and live comfortably all year long
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Milder temperatures and longer days mean winter is fast becoming a distant memory. However, environmentally conscious homeowners know that the arrival of warmer weather also means the likelihood of increased air-conditioner use and higher energy bills.
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Get glowing with simple tips for summer skincare
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Sunshine and fresh air make us fall in love with summer every year. It's a time to explore the outdoors and enjoy fashions like tank tops, flip-flops and sun dresses. How can you get beautiful summer-ready skin while keeping it protected from the sun's hot rays?
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Protect your information during the tax-season identity theft boom
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Tax season can be stressful, and each year people scramble to send in their tax returns, right down to the deadline. But for those who do a little preparation and avoid procrastinating, it can be significantly less tense. However, whether you're a last-minute rusher or an ahead-of-the-game planner, you need to take steps to protect your identity during tax time, or you could be facing the greatest stress of all.
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You are unique - your nutrition should be too
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Remember when you were a child and the world was big - full of adventure and possibility? You ate your favorite cereal for breakfast, lunch and dinner and at the end of every day, your mom would make you take those little multi-flavored vitamins usually shaped like a popular cartoon character. You didn't necessarily understand why you had to take these, but you always did what your mom told you - because mother knows best.
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Reinvent yourself: How to start your own (creative) business
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Many graduates in creative fields like graphic design, interior design or Web design are opting to start their own businesses. This is because recent figures show only a slight reduction in the unemployment rate, and job growth is at its lowest in six months. So, how can you make your business a success?
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New technologies offering hope for those with tinnitus - or ringing in the ears
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If you experience a constant ringing in your ears that's bothersome at best and debilitating at worst, you are far from alone. Tinnitus affects roughly one in five Americans and about 16 million people have serious tinnitus that requires medical attention. It's also the most common disability for military veterans, since it can be caused by extended exposure to loud noise.
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Make your summer sizzle
Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 10 Americans is living with diabetes and one in three adults could have diabetes by 2050. While every case requires an individual treatment plan, with the right attitude and management, people living with diabetes have an opportunity to overcome the challenges they face.
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Winning weight loss tips
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Winter can stretch for a very long time in many areas of the country, and with the extensive cold often comes the temptation to let weight loss goals fall by the wayside. Adopting these five strategies can improve your chances of winning at weight loss.
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Preventing medication fraud and abuse starts at home
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Prescription drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions across the United States. More than 6 million Americans abuse prescription drugs and much of the abuse begins at home, according to a national survey on drug use and health. In fact, more than 70 percent of those who illegally use prescription pain relievers obtained them through friends or family, including surreptitiously raiding the home medicine cabinet. However, a recent study revealed that only 19 percent of parents are concerned about the misuse of narcotic pain medicines in their own families, showing that many do not recognize the severity of the problem.
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Get your car road trip ready for spring
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You may be dreaming about escaping on a vacation, but the sky-high costs of flights and cruises can quickly turn into a nightmare. If you're looking to take a break without breaking the bank, a good, old-fashioned road trip could be the way to escape. Aside from packing snacks and preparing the perfect playlist, there are a few things you should consider before venturing out on the open road. A few updates and precautions can help you avoid the wear and potential safety hazards a long trip can have on your vehicle.
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How to breathe easier in your own home this spring
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With spring on the horizon, airborne allergens and pollutants can cause much grief to homeowners who suffer from breathing problems such as asthma and seasonal allergies. With the potential for increased irritation, allergy sufferers typically seek long-term, consistent relief any way they can.
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DIY tricks that make bathroom renovations easy
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When it comes to home improvement, Americans have embraced doing it themselves - in a big way. Among homeowners who plan to make improvements, 64 percent say they will do it themselves, according to American Express' Consumer Spending and Saving Report. Yet one area of home improvement continues to give even adventurous and confident DIYers pause - bathroom renovation.
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Educate yourself before starting the path to a new career
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If you're looking to start a career - whether it's because you're just beginning your journey as a working adult or because you're ready for a change in life - you should know that the process is much larger than just getting a degree and looking for a job.
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Tips for new Mother's Day and Father's Day traditions
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Families have many special traditions to celebrate Mother's Day and Father's Day. Starting new traditions is also common. If your family is looking for some new ways to enjoy Mother's Day or Father's Day this year, check out these tips and gift ideas that will help make your celebrations special.
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Give your home a true green cleaning this spring
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When you clean your house in the spring, you really want it to be clean. Dirt, dust and germs are banned, and all appliances, floors and walls are scrubbed clean. The best way to make sure your living space is clean and healthy is to use safe, natural cleaning products you create yourself, using natural and inexpensive ingredients you can pick up at any natural grocery store.
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Five things to do before sending your child to camp wearing hearing aids
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Summer is approaching and many parents will be sending their children off to camp. If your child wears hearing aids and is set to attend a summer camp for kids of all abilities, there are five things you can do to help your child get the most from his or her summer camp experience.
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Tips for optimizing small spaces
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Being short on space doesn't mean you have to be short on style or efficiency. Even older small spaces can get an open, useful feel with the right design and decorating tactics. Here are a few ways you can optimize your small space.
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Small energy improvements that save big money in the new year
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The beginning of the year is a great time to make positive changes in your home. While many will wait until March to embrace "spring cleaning" season and make home improvements, a few simple changes can be made now to help you conserve energy and start saving money right away. Here are some steps that can help lower energy consumption - and associated costs - in your home this month and throughout the year.
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Don't duplicate the stress: think taxes year-round
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Now that the April 15 tax filing deadline has passed, so too has the stress associated with filing taxes for most people. This year, resolve to think about taxes early and often so you don't get caught in a last-minute panic. Here are some important tips to consider.
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Honeymoon encore: The big move in
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It may come as a surprise to young engaged couples, but the excitement of the wedding and honeymoon doesn't end when it's all over. In fact, after the honeymoon, it's time to roll up your sleeves and plan the big move - the joining of two households.
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Boarding your four-legged family member
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Whether traveling for business or fun, it's not always practical to take along a four-legged family member. Arranging care of a beloved pet for an extended absence can be daunting. Knowing what to look for in a kennel, and what to look out for, can help you choose wisely.
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Easy DIY cures for common concrete problems
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As with other home maintenance tasks, making your own repairs to minor concrete damage yourself can prevent problems from becoming worse - and turning into something that requires costly replacement by professionals. Here are some concrete repair tasks that you can do yourself, and helpful tips for doing the jobs right.
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Preserving our planet: How to celebrate the environment every day
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Greenhouse gases are at an all-time high. Although some gases are naturally present in the atmosphere, such as water vapor, ozone, methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, human activities have created a new set of greenhouse gases (GHG) that are negatively affecting the ozone layer. GHGs are making it easier for the sun's harmful UV rays to pass through, which has resulted in global warming.
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Protect yourself from summer's backyard pests
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Warm weather is here for the next few months, and that means you'll be spending more time outdoors with family and friends - and more time with summer pests. Mosquitoes, fire ants, bees, wasps and yellow jackets are some of summer's worst bugs. And those pests can be more than a mere nuisance.
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More beauty, less beast in your lawn and garden
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A tale as old as time, true as it can be ... insects, weeds and poor fertilization are the beasts that take away from the beauty of plants and flowers in our lawns, gardens and even homes. To maintain a home and landscape your neighbors envy, interiors and exteriors should remain pest-free, and plants should be fed with the proper nutrients to stay healthy all-season-long
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The most common mistakes homeowners make when choosing a home improvement contractor and how to avoid them
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Consumer complaints and lawsuits regarding home improvements are on the rise according to Ripoff Reports; a homeowner that does not do their homework before embarking on a project could find themselves with poor workmanship, inferior products, health and safety issues or even legal problems.
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Getting girls excited about science and math
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Women currently hold fewer than 25 percent of jobs in science, technology, engineering and math fields, but job opportunities in those areas are expected to grow almost twice as much as other occupations by 2018. Parents of girls currently in junior high or high school can encourage their daughters to stay interested in science and math by supporting their education in the subjects, both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities.
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Tips for knowing when it's time to replace products on your home
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Owning a home means giving constant attention to the building products that go into protecting the structure of your house. While we'd like to believe items like our roof, siding and windows will last forever, that's not the case. All items will eventually need replacing, and here's how to know what to look for.
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Aging-in-place upgrades that look great and make sense
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Do the words "aging in place" and "home improvement" conjure images of institutional-looking grab bars in bathrooms and overhead kitchen lights that could illuminate an airport runway? Here are a handful of aging-in-place upgrades that shout "fabulous" instead of "fogey."
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How to find the right vet for your pet
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Pet owners have many responsibilities, and keeping your pet healthy with veterinary care is a significant one. To help make sure your pet receives high quality medical care, several veterinarians offer advice on how to find the right vet for your pet.
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Tips on how to use Craigslist safely and responsibly
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Need a bike to start getting into shape? Looking for a new job? Interested in renting a condo for that long-desired trip? Every day, millions of Americans turn to Craigslist.org to buy and sell items, find jobs, meet other people or find a vacation property to rent. More than 60 million people use the website and view an estimated 100 million ads per month in the U.S. alone, according to the company.
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Rare Disease Impact Report quantifies patient and caregiver challenges on journey to diagnosis and beyond
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Getting a diagnosis is just the first of many challenges patients with rare diseases - and their caregivers - face.
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Outdoor entertaining made easy
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Patio season has arrived, and opportunities for outdoor social gatherings will abound in the coming months. Birthdays, graduations, showers, holidays and any other reasons to enjoy warm weather will call for unique outdoor party solutions that differ from indoor events. Here are a few ideas to make al fresco entertaining a snap.
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Tips for setting up your home theater viewing space
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The home entertainment center concept has evolved dramatically over the past decade, from a single "tube" TV and a DVD player to full-blown, high-definition multi-media centers. The technology today offers a more immersive experience. And with a proper set up, you can enjoy the full potential of the pride and joy of your living room.
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Better romance to beat the seasonal blues
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As spring struggles to break through in much of the country, many of us can't help being affected and feeling comfort food, sitcoms and even chocolate aren't enough to lift our mood. Relationship expert Ian Kerner, Ph.D, the author of five books on sex and relationships, including "Sex Recharge," shares how to beat the seasonal blues by getting back into bed.
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The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle
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Even with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it's important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house.
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The truth about losing weight: Separating facts from fiction (and magic pills)
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Losing weight can dramatically improve your emotional and physical health, but it's often a slow process. Millions of American adults use dietary supplements to lose weight, choosing a range of products that claim to decrease appetite, block fat absorption or increase metabolism. But with hundreds of products on the market, how do you determine which one to choose?
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Make your house look like a 'million dollar listing' for less
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A new report reveals houses are selling faster and for more money, yet another indicator of a rebounding housing market. This will challenge sellers to sharpen their competitive edge as more homeowners, encouraged by promising indicators, put their house on the market. Josh Altman, one of the top 10 realtors in the country and star of Bravo's hit TV show "Million Dollar Listing: L.A.," shares three strategies for making houses more desirable to buyers.
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Small steps keep financial resolutions within reach
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Keeping resolutions is the hardest part of making them. If you're like many, 2013 may be the year of getting your financial house in order. For some, that may mean getting out from credit card debt or paying off a student loan; for others, it may mean setting aside more for emergency savings or for retirement.
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Tips for a bigger tax refund
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If you typically dread income tax time, remember this: Three out of four taxpayers receive a federal refund, and the average direct-deposited refund last year was $2,923. You have almost as many tax savings opportunities as last year, thanks to the fiscal cliff-averting tax changes passed in early January. In addition to extending the lower Bush-era income tax rates for nearly all taxpayers, the American Tax Relief Act made permanent or extended dozens of tax breaks.
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Whitewashed floors complement lively decorating trends
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It's the season of sunshine and enjoying the great outdoors. Celebrate it with a style makeover for your home by tapping lively decorating trends and home decor ideas that will refresh and brighten your living space.
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Food terms to help navigate the menu and the supermarket
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When you're scanning a restaurant menu or walking the grocery store aisles, do you know what many of the food terms really mean? What designates "local," and what is the difference between organic and non-organic? Here is a helpful guide for staying in the know when it comes to what you eat.
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Basic maintenance can keep your lawn equipment running longer
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Spring is just around the corner, so it's not too soon to begin thinking about getting your lawn equipment ready. From lawn mowers to hedge and weed trimmers, you want to make sure those items are in good working order before you are ready to tackle the lawn for the first time. Taking the time for seasonal maintenance will mean more reliable equipment and a safer experience for you. Here are some great tips to make sure you're ready to go for the season.
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Don't let spring cleaning weigh you down: Here's how to spring forward
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Spring is the time to shed your winter layers, dust off the cobwebs, open the windows and embrace the beginning of a new season. Aside from spending more time outdoors, the sunshine and warm weather often energize us to do the things we put off during the cold winter months, such as cleaning and organizing.
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Five tips to take your home from 'for sale' to 'sold'
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If you've been thinking about selling your home, there's no time like the present. House hunters come out of the woodwork in warm weather months and "for sale" signs pop up everywhere. Your job is to set your home apart from all the others. In most areas around the country, it's a buyers' market. So how do you get a leg-up on the competition?
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Responsible ridership and safety are the first steps toward personal watercraft fun
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One of the easiest and most fun ways to enjoy everything the water has to offer is on a personal watercraft (PWC). Personal watercrafts have taken great strides toward modernization; the PWCs of today are quiet, run on clean four-stroke technology engines, include significant safety features, are more stable, and are designed to accommodate up to three passengers.
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A tech refresh: Top reasons to buy a new PC
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At 4 years old, your child is probably adorable. But your 4-year-old PC - not so much. If you find you have plenty of time to brew coffee, prepare your cup, drink it down and start on the next while still waiting for your PC to boot up in the morning, it may be time for a new computer.
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Warm-weather entertaining made easy with expert tips and recipes
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Warmer temperatures often mean a busier social calendar. So whether you're planning a meal to enjoy al fresco, or whipping up a sweet treat for a neighborhood block party, it's a great time of year to experiment in the kitchen. But when you're trying out a new recipe, do you hesitate when it calls for certain ingredients? Check out these expert tips to learn alternatives that taste great and are good for you too.
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A bright idea: Tips to save money, energy with LED light bulbs
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With the U.S. incandescent phaseout wrapping up in January 2014, there are a lot of confusing messages in the lighting aisle using unfamiliar words like "lumens" and "kelvins." The solution is simple, instead of getting lost in the maze of bulb options, go for the one that will make your life easier and save you money.
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Select the right insurance for your home-based business
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Home-based businesses are booming. About 36.6 million businesses operate from U.S. households, according to the Home Based Business Institute. And the Small Business Administration notes that 53 percent of all small businesses located in the U.S. are home-based, with those numbers expected to grow substantially in the near future. But before you start planning your home-based bakery, personal training studio or computer repair venture, there's one important thing to think about: the right insurance to protect your at-home enterprise.
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