 | How to make picture-perfect holiday gifts
As the holiday season approaches, people soon will be making out their annual gift lists. More than ever, people are searching for gifts that are the most personal and meaningful - without breaking the bank. Many turn to capturing their family memories - new and old, and this often begins with photographs. |
 | This holiday - show you care with your hair
Every year, thousands of children lose their hair due to chronic illness. This loss impacts more than just physical appearance -- it deeply affects self-esteem, causing many children to withdraw from social activities and friends. Here's how you can help. |
 | Wine is a gift of flavor, knowledge
Is there a person on your holiday gift list who has always wanted to become a little more cultured about wine? Perhaps he or she has attended several wine tasting events to sample different styles - just to pique his or her interest even more. |
 | Is it a cold or the flu? Here's how to tell
"My body aches and my head is throbbing. Do I have the flu or is it just because I'm stressed or tired? Do I need a flu shot? Do I need the H1N1 vaccine, too?" Millions of Americans will be asking themselves these and more questions this fall and winter as news reports and health care providers continue to warn about seasonal influenza and novel H1N1 influenza, otherwise known as swine flu. |
 | Check it twice: Buying the perfect laptop for that special someone
With the holidays fast approaching, it is time to start thinking of practical gift ideas in this tough economy. As the wireless revolution continues to dominate our personal and professional lives, a laptop or netbook is a hot gift for those close to you this holiday season. |
 | Turn down the stress, crank up the joy
While there is no definitive quick fix for the stress most of us experience at the holidays, we can start by reining in expectations and keeping things simple. For instance, instead of letting holiday gift-giving make you fret and break your budget, why not craft some fragrant, low-cost, guilt-free gifts that nurture body and soul? Gifts from the heart, made with your hands, are much more meaningful to both the recipient and the giver. |
 | Save some green while living green during the holidays
Many people perceive a high cost associated with a "green" lifestyle. However, this holiday season, you can embrace eco-friendly living while actually saving money. |
 | Holiday gift-giving unwrapped
The most important part of giving a gift is the thought behind it. Consider skipping the malls this holiday season and instead create some homemade holiday presents that will save you money and add meaning to the wrapped packages you hand out to family and friends. |
 | Decking the halls: Holiday ambiance is more than just decorations
The holly boughs on the front porch railing and the evergreen wreath on the door may be visible signs of the holidays, but to really savor the spirit of the season, you need to engage all your senses. |
 | Half-ton truck owners now have a full-sized snowplow
With more than 2.5 million half-ton pickups sold annually, these trucks are beloved for their versatility and durability. Whether they're being used to pull a trailer or haul a heavy load, half-ton pickups work hard and are fun to drive. And now, almost every half-ton pickup truck can also serve as an efficient, effective snow-clearing machine. |
 | Savvy shopping tips for a stress-free holiday season
'Tis the season to be shopping. And, as holiday shopping lists continue to grow with family, friends, co-workers and even teachers to buy gifts for, it's important to be a smart shopper and not only stretch your dollars but also find quality gifts for everyone on your list. |
 | Tips for safe online holiday shopping
The amount of online shopping has risen dramatically over the past decade. Online shopping this holiday season will continue the year-to-year growth that it has seen over recent years, growing from 37.6 percent of Americans shopping online in 2006 to 47.2 percent this year, according to research by pricegrabber.com. The American Bar Association offers some tips for staying safe while shopping online. |
 | Sealing in fall and winter can prevent need for spring repairs
With cooler nights and shorter days, it's time to get on that fall home maintenance plan now. Winter is on the way, bringing falling temperatures and wet conditions that create a host of small problems that can add up to big costs by spring. |
 | See here - A clean, well-kept windshield is key to winter driving safety
If you can't see, you can't be safe behind the wheel. Yet millions of American motorists drive on winter roads peering through windshields that probably haven't had proper care and cleaning since spring. |
 | Gift ideas for the fitness fans on your list
What do you get the fitness fans on your holiday shopping list? Candy and fruitcake probably aren't good gifts, since they're likely watching their diets. Clothing is difficult, since getting the style and size right can be tricky. Exercise-related gifts might be the perfect solution, and fortunately there are plenty of ways you can tie your gift giving into a fitness fan's lifestyle. |
 | Pregnant women need to prioritize flu protection this flu season
Pregnant women have a lot on their to-do list, but rarely does it seem that flu protection is part of their prenatal health plan. This year, the flu presents an added threat to pregnant women and their newborns because of the new H1N1 (swine) flu virus. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and women's health experts have identified pregnant women as a priority group for seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccination. |
 | Keep the pressure off holiday shopping
The holiday shopping season can be hectic, and this year, finding good deals on gifts is important. Here are some tips to make your shopping season a little easier, and cheaper. |
| Top 7 reasons to consider a netbook this holiday season
The holiday shopping season is just around the corner and technology gadgets are always popular items for holiday giving. Netbooks have been getting a lot of press lately and are sure to be high up on many people's wish lists. |
 | Tips for staying safe through the holiday season
The best way to face down winter and all its challenges is to think ahead and be prepared. A few simple solutions will make winter much safer - and more enjoyable - for you and any guests you might invite over. |
 | Save money while holiday shopping
Americans will spend $682.74 on holiday shopping this year, according to the National Retail Federation. That is down about $20 from last year's average spending. And two-thirds of Americans also report that the economy is causing them to spend less this holiday season. But the good news is that people will be shopping sales and discounts this year, according to the NRF, and one way to find great deals is using online coupons. |
 | Making comfort food comforting to your waistline
Comfort foods are familiar, simple foods that are usually home-cooked and are often emotionally significant and sometimes related to pleasant associations of childhood. However, when people think of comfort foods, they don't typically think of healthy foods. Comfort foods tend to be high in fat and calories, rather than vitamins and minerals. If you really want to make your recipes healthier, try simple modifications that won't change the end product drastically. |
 | Preparing your car for the big chill
A few minutes in the garage before the bitter cold hits could help prevent a more time-consuming and unpleasant experience during the winter. Cold weather will only make existing problems worse, according to the experts at the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). It's a good idea to read the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. Here are some additional tips. |
 | A holiday home away from home
The holiday season is practically synonymous with family vacations. Visiting relatives you haven't seen in a year, gluttonous eating and cramming the whole crew into a hotel room with tight sleeping quarters and one bathroom. It's all par for the course, right? Well, it doesn't have to be if you rent a vacation home instead. |
 | Turkeys gobble and sleigh bells ring - can you hear the sounds of the holidays?
Holiday music, noisy families feasting, and a hearty "ho, ho, ho" - the sounds of the holidays are as much a part of the spirit of the season as turkey dinners, twinkling lights and brightly wrapped gifts. But what do you do if you - or a loved one - can't hear the sounds of the holidays as well as you would like to? |
 | Liven up holiday cocktails with coffee
'Tis the season for holiday entertaining - the time of year when friends and family gather to indulge in good food, good times, laughter and holiday cheer. When it comes to celebrating with festive drinks, use your imagination in the kitchen and incorporate ingredients that your guests won't expect, like coffee. |
 | A gift of jewelry for special women in your life
You probably have some important women to shop for this season - maybe a wife or daughter, your mom or sister. Need some ideas? Think jewelry. |
 | Smart gifts for your sexy, sophisticated man
It's nearly 2010 and real men accessorize. They get manicures, dress well and enjoy wearing sophisticated scents, too. These days, being sexy and chic doesn't conflict with being strong and masculine. This holiday, the best gift to the man in your life should reflect his personal style and sense of casual sophistication. |
 | Holiday decor trends feature rustic charm with homespun elegance
The air is crisp, colors have changed and cozy sweaters have re-emerged into your wardrobe's rotation. The holidays are on the way, and the season's natural beauty shines radiantly to warm the heart and inspire fresh crafting ideas. Here are the top trends for holiday season 2009. |
 | Spice up the holidays with personal gifts
Looking for an affordable gift with a personal touch? A spice gift basket can fit any budget and makes an ideal hostess or holiday gift for every cook. They are perfect for a birthday, housewarming or simple thank you, too. With just a little thought and a few supplies, you can assemble a personalized basket. With Internet and mail-order shopping, it's possible to buy everything you need without leaving the house. |
 | Three beauty looks to get ready for the holiday party season
With the season of soirees upon us, the ultimate look is needed to stand out among the crowd of little black dresses. With a few simple steps, it's easy to have the appearance of professionally done makeup without emptying your wallet. Be your own makeup artist by trying these three looks from the pros to accent your best features. |
 | Turn your holiday feast fears to cheers
It's now in plain view on the calendar: the holiday season - time to prepare for feasts, families and friends. Happy times indeed, although too many feel, with the economic strain and worry, that it's their goose that will be cooked while trying to keep spending in check this winter. Keep these few tips in mind as you cook up your meals and plans for entertaining. |
| Prepare your vehicle for a hurricane evacuation
Ana, Bill, Claudette - the first three Atlantic Ocean hurricanes of the season made headlines, but not to the extent of Katrina or Ike of recent years. And while these three hurricanes have come and gone, who knows if - or when - Grace or Henry might pay a visit to your town? |
| Easy tips for throwing a fun and safe holiday party
Whether you're planning a small, intimate gathering or throwing a large-scale get-together, these entertaining tips will help keep the holidays happy and safe for all of your party guests. |
 | Parents pull out all the stops to keep their babies healthy this winter
Keeping their families healthy is top of mind with parents these days - and they are taking all precautionary measures to keep their babies out of the doctor offices during the H1N1 flu season. |
 | The surprising hidden costs of holiday shopping - and how to beat them
As we head into this holiday season, shoppers will start to plan their holiday gift lists, hit the stores and start shopping. Getting the most for your holiday shopping dollars this year will not only be about sticking to a budget, but managing valuable time to spend on shopping for the holidays. |
 | Get your winter shopping done while it's still nice out
The calendar pages are flipping quickly and in just a short time, Old Man Winter will be here. Is your household prepared for colder weather? |
 | Dried fruit and prune juice add flavor and depth to holiday stuffing
Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, one thing's for sure - no holiday meal is complete without it. Sometimes savory, often sweet, but always delicious, stuffing is one of the most anticipated dishes on the holiday table. Here are some exciting secret ingredients. |
 | Holiday shopping strategies help ring in the new year
The holidays are a time to celebrate. But sometimes it's challenging to spend and celebrate on a budget, especially when it's the season of giving. Now is a good time to switch your holiday shopping strategies and resolve to improve your money management skills through the new year. |
 | Time-saving tips for an enjoyable holiday
The holiday season is a time to spend with friends and family, but is very often characterized by the need for a lot of multi-tasking. Smooth out your to-do list and make the most out of the holidays this year. |
 | Holiday shopping: Don't forget your wallet ... or your research
The weather is turning colder. Bright lights and decorations abound. Your relatives are dropping hints on what they want to see under the tree. The holidays are quickly coming upon us ... and that means it's time to shop. |
 | Are e-cards for you this holiday season?
You know the old drill. Weeks before the holidays begin you shop for the perfect card or pose for your annual family photo to grace your season's greetings. Today there is another option: For those of us with no time left to spare, the lure of e-cards is beginning to change the way we reach out to one another. |
 | Prepare your house for winter weather
With the winter weather slowly creeping in, it's time to get your house ready for snow, wind, ice, freezing rain and all the other potential bad weather that can cause damage to your property. Don't wait until the first frost or snowfall to prepare your house for winter. |
 | Useful gifts for everyone on your list
Tired of the same old, same old when it comes to buying holiday gifts? Not looking forward to playing the usual retail game -- running out to shop, waiting in long lines for questionable discounts on generic items, then resorting to purchasing useless gifts out of sheer panic and lack of time? |
 | Quick, easy and divine desserts to impress holiday guests
The holidays are a time for gathering together with family and friends and enjoying delicious food. But when you are deciding what to serve or bring to your next celebration, don't feel that you have to toil away in the kitchen for hours or even break the budget to provide tasty treats for your guests. |
 | Saving energy can save holiday hassles
It's not just a holiday cliche - people really do hate untangling last year's holiday lights, according to a new survey. Nearly a quarter said they plan to decorate using energy-saving LED holiday lights and over half plan to use an artificial tree, making energy-saving decor a possible trend this holiday season. |
 | Finding a gift that fits
When shopping for gifts this holiday season, remember the phrases "less is more," and "quality over quantity." With clothing and apparel the most popular holiday gifts from year to year, it's important in this economy to be a smart shopper. |
 | Savvy advice for gift shopping, handling 'hidden' holiday costs
You're a smart holiday shopper - in fact, you planned your holiday gift budget months ago and have been putting money aside in a separate account ever since. In the midst of your savvy shopper planning, however, did you overlook the "hidden costs" associated with getting through the holidays? |
 | Secrets to staying on budget this holiday shopping season
Shoppers stayed focused during the back-to-school season by clipping coupons, seeking sales and sticking only to the items on their lists, according to the National Retail Federation. If you're looking to save money this holiday season, you'll likely follow the same trend. |
 | Prep the holiday meal quickly and save money
If the holiday meal is at your house this year, you could completely stress out over the menu and ingredients, spending hours and plenty of money in an attempt to feed everyone the perfect holiday meal. Or, you could plan ahead, save a few dollars here and there, and enjoy the holiday. |
 | You can get it all done before the holidays ... even learning to play the piano
A little smart scheduling and some stress-relieving techniques are really all you need in order to check off everything on your "to do" list this holiday season. In fact, you probably already know what you need to do. Sometimes, it just helps to have a reminder or two of how to use your time wisely. |
 | Beauty basics to help you embrace autumn
Fall is a time of transition. Not only do you need to prepare your skin for the cold months ahead, but it's time to transform your look from light and airy to soft and classic. |
 | Sharing the season's sentiments sweetly
There has rarely been a year when so much has been asked of so many. Families and friends across the miles have clung tight to each other and most have come out more connected than ever. Here are a few ideas for finding that perfect "something" that says, "I'm thinking about you," or "Thank you for everything." |
 | Spirit of the season: Generous gifts that give back
The holidays are a season of generosity and giving, so what better time of year to give wisely with gifts that are easy on the earth, respectful to the global community and even give back to charity? |
| Shop smart and look fab with these fashion dos and don'ts
Looking good this fall doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. Just consider these fashion tips from the pros to help develop a wardrobe that flatters your body's positives and minimizes the negatives. |
 | This year, make your toy shopping list work harder
With family budgets a little tighter this year, many parents may be taking a closer look at their children's toy lists. You still want to put smiles on their faces and build holiday memories, but you also want to make wise choices with lasting value. |
 | Expert tips to take the stress out of holiday entertaining
With the holidays quickly approaching, you can make a stress-free holiday meal with some handy tips from celebrity chef and expert entertainer Cat Cora, the first and only female Iron Chef on Food Network's Iron Chef America. |
 | What's in a name? A great gift idea, that's what
Ah, the monogram - is there any more definitive statement of personalization and ownership - not to mention class - than the artistic rendering of one's name or initials on a gift? Truly, a monogram can elevate the most mundane gift to a sublime level of personalization. |
 | Riding escalators: A holiday safety reminder
With autumn in full swing, families have already begun their holiday planning. While some will fight the long lines for holiday shopping sales, others will brave airport security and cross-country flights to be with loved ones. |
 | 'Tis the season for holiday baking - it's better with butter
Found in almost every pantry, butter's unique flavor, melting and cooking properties make it a great ingredient for cake and cookie recipes, frostings, candies and more. |
 | Drive safely this winter with expert cold-weather car care tips
Rough winter weather increases your risk of being in a car accident by 36 percent, finds the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. But taking a few steps now can help minimize your risk. |
 | Keep your holiday bright - and safe - with ID theft prevention tips
Not everyone will be thinking of gift shopping, decorating and spreading good cheer this holiday season. Identity thieves will spend their time concocting new ways to steal and use your personal information. |
 | Mini golf offers family fun for all ages
There is nothing easy about trying to plan a family vacation. Besides the challenge of figuring out where to go, there is the ever-present concern of finding age-appropriate activities for the entire family. |
 | Get out and play in Washington's winter wonderland
Summer isn't the only season for outdoor fun. Winter brings cooler temperatures, glistening snow and plenty of opportunities for play. |
 | 'Tis the season for a safe holiday
The holiday season is filled with endless celebrating, shopping and decorating. But during all the hustle and bustle, people often overlook simple safety precautions. Whether decorating a home inside and out with colorful lights, setting up holiday items in your office or stringing decorations in a dorm room, it is important to remember some important holiday safety tips. |
 | Efficient and safe holiday entertaining
Preparing for a holiday gathering at your home, amid the hustle and bustle of the season, doesn't have to be daunting. Start by getting organized. Give your kitchen a fresh look and improve efficiency with a few quick, cost-effective updates. |
 | Stop, look and listen your way into stress-free entertaining
This year when you turn the pages on your calendar, have no fear. Holiday entertaining at home can be as easy as pie if you remember what your mother taught you when crossing the street: Stop. Look. And listen. The same lesson applies to entertaining. |
 | Fresh citrus makes cooking come alive
Has your snacking and cooking become boring? It's easy to fall into a flavorless rut. If this sounds like you, take note from top chefs and health enthusiasts alike and look to citrus for the flavors and nutrients we love. |
 | This holiday season calls for gifts that 'pay it forward'
No matter which holiday celebrated, the spirit of giving is an essential and time-honored tradition for many. Given the current state of the economy, experts predict this holiday season to be a challenging one, leaving many to wonder how to keep the spirit of the holidays alive without breaking the bank. |
 | Warm weather relaxing or playing in the snow? Tips for planning your winter travels
The winter months offer the perfect excuse to plan a fabulous getaway, and you don't have to travel far to find something that fits your vacation expectations. |
| Artificial Christmas trees gaining popularity
Simplifying is the name of the game this holiday season. Americans are cutting back on spending, and when they choose to invest, it's in quality products that benefit their wallet, time, health and the environment. |
 | It's easier than ever to plow snow like a pro
As more Americans stretch their budgets in hopes of accomplishing more with less, many owners of half-ton pickup trucks are purchasing a snowplow to handle their snow removal. Owners who want to put their pickup truck to good use are realizing the benefits of using it as a working, snow-clearing machine. |
 | Great gifts for the holiday season
The holiday season is quickly approaching and your shopping list is filled with loved ones awaiting the perfect gift. However, finding the right gift can be a daunting task when each person has a unique set of qualities and interests. Shorten your shopping time with this list of products that are sure to create smiles this holiday season. |
 | 'Tech' the halls: Holiday decor goes high tech this season
This holiday season, don't just "decorate" with some evergreen and mistletoe - "techorate" using today's hottest home technology, including your flat-screen TV. |
 | Time for tires? Buying basics for tire shoppers
It's one of the most important vehicle-related purchases you can make, yet a whopping 62 percent of women and nearly half of all men think it's difficult, according to a recent survey. What is this process that so many American car owners consider a hassle? Buying new tires. |
 | Top 10 pet health tips for the holidays
Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year's Eve and Kwanzaa - no matter what you're celebrating, pet owners need to remember to keep their pets safe and healthy for the holidays. |
 | Fall into winter and start the bird-feeding frenzy
Fall is the traditional beginning of the classic start for the yearlong season of bird feeding. More people feed birds than watch football, baseball or any other sport, or participate in any other outdoor activity. That's right. Bird feeding is in. More than 65 million Americans are doing it, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. |
 | How to use your all-terrain vehicle all year long
Many ATV/UTV owners are preparing to store their ride away for the winter, but with a little planning, any enthusiast can utilize their all-terrain vehicle throughout the year without having to pay a shop's expensive fees. |
 | Gift cards make the perfect present this holiday season
Tired of spending way too much on holiday gifts that end up shoved in the back of the recipient's closet? Still blushing after buying a size 14 for your size 8 cousin last year? Dread the idea of your thoughtful present ending up regifted? This year try giving everyone on your list - from the do-it-yourselfer to the one who has everything - just what they want while saving time and sticking to your budget. |
| Don't pay full price for anything on your shopping list
There's no reason to spend full price on any of the items on your shopping list, when you can save both time and money by shopping online with discounts and other services provided at various store's sites. |
 | Have a savvy and smart holiday
Planning ahead and being smart about your purchases is the key to brightening your holiday shopping experience. |
 | Explore new flavors in recipes this holiday
Holiday tunes on the radio, mistletoe hanging in strategic locations and the scent of pine lingering in the air - it's the perfect time to get into the kitchen and discover some new cooking flavors that will keep your taste buds happy and give your house a warm, yummy smell. |
 | Four ways to put the 'jingle' back in your holiday budget
Presents, decorations, wrapping paper, greeting cards, meals, travel ... the typical holiday shopping list could go on and on - and so can the holiday debt. But there are simple ways to reign in holiday spending without sacrificing holiday cheer. |
 | This holiday, give a gift that gives back
Gift cards will be the most requested gift this year, with nearly 55 percent of consumers reporting they would like to receive a gift card this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. Each year, 70 percent of consumers purchase a gift card as a holiday gift and for the fifth year in a row, gift cards are expected to lead holiday purchases. |
 | It's not just a gift ... it's an adventure
From Scrooge's ghost-guided time traveling to a trip to the North Pole aboard an imaginary express train, the holidays and adventure go hand in hand. And the gift of an adventure may be just the right fit for that hard-to-buy-for someone on your holiday list this year. |
 | Dress up your home with festive live plants
If you're looking for ways to add a festive and unique touch to your home, think live plants. Rather than rummaging through basements and attics for holiday decorations or buying yet another centerpiece, decorating with plants adds long-lasting year-round style and cheer to any home. |
 | Simple cost-effective tips on winterizing your home
Each fall, the temperatures begin to drop and heating bills begin to rise, causing many homeowners to tighten their budgets. What many people do not realize is there are cost-effective ways of preparing a home for the winter, which will save money in the long run. |
 | Hi-tech holidays: technology gifts dominate this year's shopping lists
The holiday season is officially underway and consumers will be hitting the stores to shop for their loved ones. Hot on holiday wish lists this year - technology. |
 | Tips for a fun and safe holiday party
If you're thinking about hosting a holiday party this season, don't forget to take some time to make it as safe as possible. |
