Lifestyle & Trends - How To
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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Smart, stylish renovations for any age
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Most Americans over 50 want to stay in their home as they age, but few are making the renovations they need to ensure easy and comfortable living for years to come.
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Summer provides opportunities for savvy students and career seekers
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The summer educational break is no excuse to put academic or career ambitions on vacation. In fact, the traditionally slower months of summer are an ideal opportunity to assess academic and career goals.
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Advice for choosing a financial advisor
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Saving for retirement is an essential task, but one that can be complex and demand a lot of attention. With the arrival of April - Financial Literacy Month - focusing on your existing saving strategies should be a priority. It's also an ideal time to talk to a financial professional who can help you shoulder the burden and explore other options to make your money work harder for your future.
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Top three reasons to find your banking bliss
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What would you do with an extra hour this week? Maybe you would sit down to watch your favorite TV program, jump back into that book you've been dying to finish, or pick up the phone to catch up with an old friend. Gaining an hour this week may be as simple as having a good relationship with your bank.
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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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Five budget-friendly outdoor living space solutions
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As summer approaches, you're probably dreaming of a luxurious outdoor retreat ideal for al fresco lunches, cookouts with friends or lazy afternoons spent sunbathing. While you also may be wondering if this project fits within your budget, it is possible to construct a completely customized outdoor oasis without breaking the bank.
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Tips to keep potty training positive
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Parents everywhere agree - potty training can be a struggle. You worry about taking your toddler out in public or trying to find ways to simultaneously encourage potty training and boost your child's self-confidence. Try a couple of tips to make the potty training experience fun and consistent.
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Knowing your risks for type 2 diabetes
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Understanding your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, or getting an early diagnosis, is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death.
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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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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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2013's hottest home trends and easy upgrades
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The top home decor trends for 2013 are already emerging, and homeowners seeking a fresh look will find a lot to love. Not only can these looks be accomplished in minimal time - they're budget friendly and easy enough for DIYers to finish in a weekend or less.
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Weekend home improvement projects that add value and curb appeal
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Weekend warriors rule as 2013 is proving to be the year that the do-it-yourself trend reaches full momentum. If you have a weekend to spare, you have plenty of time to make some home improvements that add value and curb appeal. The key is to choose projects that have a big impact, but only take a few days to complete.
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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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Top tips for avoiding injury and strain while gardening
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Fresh packets of seeds, the dirt between your fingers, and the smell of freshly churned earth - gardening season has officially begun. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a newbie to home planting, gardening is a great activity that provides both physical and mental health benefits. But one unwelcome part of taking up gardening as a hobby is the potential for strain and injury. Follow these tips and you'll get the most out of your garden and avoid hurting yourself.
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Give your home a true green cleaning
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When you clean your house, 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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Easy ways to make a difference this summer
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Summer provides a much needed break for families and a perfect opportunity to make a difference in the community. Depending on interest and time, there are many different ways to get involved or make a charitable contribution.
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Upcycling: Breathe new life into decor with a dash of DIY inspiration
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If you've ever looked around your house and gotten the urge to purge, you might consider pausing and first thinking about how you could transform that old, damaged piece of furniture or outdated light fixture into a fresh-faced showpiece for your home.
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Tech talk: Understanding 'the cloud' and what it can do for you
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News headlines, commercials and chatter between colleagues - recently there has been a lot of hype around "the cloud," but the term can be complex and confusing. What exactly is the cloud, and furthermore, what does it mean for you and the way you use technology? Although the concept feels relatively new, it's simpler than you may think.
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Is your career fit for the summer?
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Summer isn't just the time to get your body in shape; it's a good time to get your career in shape as well. After all, you are the CEO of your career, the one who guides the way.
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Housetraining your puppy: Tips for keeping your dog behaved and your home clean
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Few things are as exciting as bringing home a new puppy. Whether chihuahua or Great Dane, a pup's playful antics delight people of all ages. Having a dog can bring many years of companionship and precious memories, but before you ask, "How much is that doggie in the window?" consider a few expert tips for positive housetraining.
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Tips for the perfect summer evening in
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For many, Memorial Day is the official start to summer - and its flurry of travel and outdoor activity. Sometimes, after a long week at work or a vacation road trip, all you want to do is unwind in the comfort of your own home. What's better than to dress down in those yoga pants, kick back and revel in some "me-time"?
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Cut home entertainment costs without loss of shows
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Families are always looking for ways to cut household costs. One area that provides a bit of budget-cutting flexibility is home entertainment costs.
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Gluten-free meals with 'wow' factor, from breakfast to dinner
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As awareness of gluten-free diets continues to grow, more people are searching for ways to make their menus delicious, creative and varied while still staying gluten-free. In the past, forgoing gluten was challenging at best and frustrating at worst, due to a lack of available ingredients and products. But that was then. Now, whether it's gluten intolerance or a goal of healthier eating that drives your meal plans, you can indulge and enjoy great meals from breakfast to dinner (and everything in between).
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Tips for managing your career on social media
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Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, at some point you'll likely find yourself searching for a new job. And as you start your job search, it's important to understand the impact your use of social media may have on your career.
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How to freshen up your spring cuisine
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For food fanatics, spring is the perfect time of year to add fresh produce back into your recipes and meals. Using seasonal ingredients can really help capture and enhance the flavors of spring and bring your cuisine to life. Whether you're using first yields from your garden or visiting the farmers market as soon as it opens, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the season.
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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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How to support your friend in a split
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When a marriage ends in divorce, it's not just the couple who is involved. Friends and family members are also part of the process and often play many different parts. Support can make a critical difference to your friend, but unfortunately, doesn't come with how-to manual.
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Tips for making your spring cleaning a breeze
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A long winter season can leave you and your family longing for outdoor activities. Before you head for some fresh air fun, you need to get your home in order for the spring and summer months ahead.
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Couples who design together, stay together
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Opposites attract, and for couples who live together, compromising on personal style and design choices can be a difficult bridge to cross. Someone who wants a modern, contemporary vibe might not like the decor choice of someone who prefers a more traditional or rustic feel. What most people don't realize, however, is that blending two opposing tastes can actually be more visually appealing than sticking with just one design style. And, more importantly, it can be done quickly and affordably.
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Roof maintenance tips for every season
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From intense heat to extreme snow, your roof protects your house from the elements all year long. When is the last time you checked to make sure your roof was in good shape? No matter what the seasons are like in your area, now is the time to begin preparation for extreme weather by giving your roof a second look.
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Expert advice for smart investing strategies
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After five years of market volatility, recession and uncertainty, markets in the U.S. are showing signs of life. Leading indexes are now approaching all-time highs, and many individuals are taking a fresh look at their investment plans. But with the sting of recent losses and swings still fresh in mind, now is a good time to consider a new investment approach. If you're looking for long-term results in unpredictable market conditions, a few guidelines from the experts may help.
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Three ways to bring added entertainment to your outdoor experiences
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There's a reason it's called the "great" outdoors. Nothing can quite compare with the beauty and majesty of wild places. When summer rolls around, the urge to explore grows for many people, inspiring millions of travelers to camp, hike and tour the country's natural wonders. Modern outdoor enthusiasts have discovered that technology makes it even more fun to spend time in off-the-beaten-track locations.
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How to avoid a big tax bill or fine-tune your refund
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Think back to your last income tax return. Did you owe Uncle Sam a lot of money, or did he give you a big refund? Whatever your situation, you can influence next year's outcome by adjusting your payroll withholding. Here's what you need to know.
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Green gardening tools and techniques that really work
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Americans have embraced recycling and are enthusiastic about cleaner energy sources. Yet when it comes to caring for their outdoor environment, many people still use less earth-friendly tools and techniques. Advances in environmentally responsible products have made it possible for homeowners to effectively care for their gardens and landscaping, while protecting the environment at the same time.
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Choosing the right financial products for all stages of life
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No matter where you are in your life, you have a lot of decisions to make. When to buy your first house? What school to attend? Is it the right time for a job change? As things change in life, those changes influence your financial decisions, too.
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Cleaning the right way to remove allergens
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When you're done with your regular cleaning routine, you may assume you've eliminated any allergy triggers that were lurking in your home. But the truth is, if you don't clean the right way, you might be making the problem worse.
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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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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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Tips for extending your home into your patio
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In warmer weather, patios transform into the ultimate gathering space for backyard barbecues, reading, relaxing or even exercising. These outdoor rooms become an extension of the house, seamlessly merging the outdoors inside and vice versa.
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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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Tap the hidden job market
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The process of finding employment has quietly undergone an evolution. Job seekers are discovering that many positions are not posted to the public. In fact, the online career guidance resource Quintessential Careers reports that only 15 to 20 percent of available jobs post to newspapers, online job boards, or employment agencies. How can job seekers learn about these unadvertised jobs?
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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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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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Going the extra mile: Secrets to keeping cars running longer on the roads
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Hitting 100,000 miles on the odometer for most people means it's time to start car shopping. But for others it's a personal challenge to go the extra mile, save a little cash and take their cars another 100,000 miles.
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Moving this summer? Navigate the peak season like a pro
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Summer is busiest time of the year for home and business moves. In fact, an estimated 65 percent of the 43 million Americans who are moving this year will do so in the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. What does that mean for those with a move in the immediate future? Cut down on the stress and try some simple tips to make moving a breeze.
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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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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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Renew yourself and your home in four easy steps
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Your home can find new life when the weather warms. The transition of seasons is a perfect opportunity to refocus on improving yourself and your space.
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Stop your relationship rut: 3 simple steps to a fresh start this Valentine's Day
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Feeling like you're in a relationship rut? You're not alone. Whether you're single or married, getting stuck in a routine may be normal, but that's no excuse to keep on down the same path. Take control of your love life and break out of your relationship habits. Relationship expert and author of "Cheat On Your Husband With Your Husband,"Andrea Syrtash, shares three simple steps to help you identify your patterns, make small changes and ultimately decide if this is the right relationship for you.
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Ask the pharmacist: How to avoid medication misfortune during a natural disaster
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Whether it's plywood, bottled water or generators, Americans gather the necessary supplies and seek the appropriate shelter if confronted by the wrath of Mother Nature. Regardless of the disaster - hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires - lives can be turned upside-down in an instant. Some of the most commonly overlooked items, as people stock up for emergencies, are prescription medications. In some cases, not having access to necessary medication can itself be a life-threatening situation.
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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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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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Salty snacks reduce stress
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Stress affects everyone and can cause problems at work, home and with health. Researchers have found that stress is a leading cause of illness, affecting as much as 20 percent of the population. Economic factors, such as a recession, have also been shown to significantly increase population-wide stress levels.
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Why going gluten-free doesn't mean going grain-free
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It's impossible to stroll the aisles in your local supermarket without seeing package after package labeled "gluten-free." But who really needs a gluten-free diet, and what does it mean to convert your daily diet to be gluten-free?
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Get smart about buying insurance
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For most Americans, insurance coverage is a necessity. While coverage can be confusing and expensive to obtain, its solace is undeniable in the event of a car crash, emergency surgery or if your home has been damaged in a storm.
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Save money and do a world of good with reusable containers
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Even as the country moves out of the great recession, many Americans are still in a money-saving mode - looking to conserve wherever possible.
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Women athletes have races geared just for them
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Women are busier than ever these days - the latest report from RunningUSA says women account for nearly eight million U.S. road-race finishers, with the number continuing to climb. For many women, running provides an opportunity to take a break from the challenges of work, family and other stress to be their best selves while combining fun, personal accomplishment and camaraderie with others.
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Five questions to ask before hiring a real estate agent
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Want to sell your property quickly? Looking for your dream house? Are you hoping to get the best deal possible during the complex process of buying or selling a home? With so much money - and often, emotion - at stake, going it alone is generally not the best way to reach your goals. The secret for getting exactly what you want: Work with a savvy real estate agent.
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Five fast fixes and tips for a summer-ready car
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With summer just around the corner, it's time to get your car in tip-top shape to withstand hot days and long road trips. Summer driving requires your car to run differently; some adjustments and inspections are important to ensure your vehicle lasts season to season. Follow these five fast fixes and inspections to cruise through the summer and avoid roadside headaches.
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Bright ideas to get your home guest ready
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Summer has arrived and vacation season is underway. With the kids home from school, and family and friends anxious to visit, you can expect the stress of getting your home ready to be in full swing. Here are a few helpful tips that will make you a successful host and give your guests a warm welcome.
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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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Tips and trends to create the wedding of your dreams for less
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When it comes to the big day, you want a wedding that suits you and your fiance perfectly, whether it's a casual outdoor affair or a formal black-tie event. One thing every couple can agree on is that planning a wedding shouldn't be stressful. A few insider tips and trends of 2013 will help you plan the wedding of your dreams without undue stress.
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Four fast, easy kitchen projects you can complete this weekend
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Minor kitchen updates can result in enhanced appearance, enjoyment and increased home value. With a free weekend and a modest budget, you can accomplish some do-it-yourself projects that will give your kitchen a whole new look.
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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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Five environmentally friendly ways to keep your lawn looking great
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Maintaining the perfect lawn is easier than you think and with the right tools, you can be both efficient with your yard work and eco-conscious. If it's lush green turf that you're after, but you also care about your carbon footprint, there are a few tools and practices that can help you have it both ways.
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Extend your living space outdoors into your backyard
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The backyard is more than just a lawn to mow or a place for the pooch to run around. Many homeowners are turning their backyards into an extension of their homes, bringing the indoors outside for additional living space.
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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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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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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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Affected by diabetes? Important facts and developments you should know
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A disease so prevalent that it is labeled an epidemic in America, diabetes affects nearly 26 million children and adults, according to the American Diabetes Association. As this number grows, so does the urgency of finding a cure. Staying informed is an important part of managing a diabetes diagnosis. Here are some of the top myths and misconceptions about diabetes.
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Tips and tools to prepare for power outages
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Storms have been packing big punches in recent years. While the debate about the cause might rage on, so do the natural elements that wreak havoc on private homes and public infrastructure. As has been seen in recent years, the aging of the American power grid has resulted in extended power outages - and that increasingly seems that this will be the new norm. However, going without power for long periods of time is non-negotiable for many Americans.
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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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Get ready to spice up summer meals
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The inspiration for a great taco can be found in many places - from farmers markets to food trucks to upscale restaurants. All across the country, chefs and home cooks alike are reinventing the taco with global flavors and fresh ingredients. Craving a perfect, exciting taco? Five secrets to success
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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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Address your skin's needs through a holistic approach to facial skincare
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Many women cite a number of external factors that can trigger sensitive skin flare-ups, including harsh ingredients, weather and makeup. What they may not know is that lifestyle choices can also influence the health and appearance of their skin. Follow these top tips from the experts to get flawless skin.
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Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always
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Sunnier skies and summertime fun are just around the corner, and with them comes plenty of outdoor activities like longs days at the playground, sporting events and barbecues. With so many options, the last thing most people want to think about is household responsibilities … but all that outdoor fun can add up to a lot of laundry.
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Dad, you deserve a break (Easy DIY projects that spruce up a home in no time)
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With Father's Day right around the corner, give Dad a break from his "to do" list by taking care of the easier DIY tasks for him. From simple fixes to bigger projects, sometimes all you need is the right tool at the right time, to get the job done.
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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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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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Add years to your pet's life with expert tips
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Few things in life are as special as the unconditional love and loyalty a pet provides. With 78.2 million owned dogs and 86.4 million owned cats in the United States, according to The Humane Society, it's obvious Americans enjoy having pets. What might not be so apparent is how best to care for them. When it comes to making sure your pet stays healthy and lives as long as possible, what steps can you take?
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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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Steps to an updated outdoor entertaining space
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Is your outdoor patio or deck looking a bit dated and dingy? Does it reflect your home's personality? Whether you're planning to host outdoor festivities with friends and family or just grilling up gourmet creations, a few changes can really liven up your outdoor space and add value to your home.
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For a greener backyard, take cues from leading-edge California
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From implementing stricter standards for vehicle emissions to creating a state-level agency to administer stewardship of the environment, Californians have always been at the forefront of the green movement. That commitment to the environment even extends to local backyards, where California homeowners are turning to eco-friendly materials, building practices and landscaping to create "greener" outdoor living spaces.
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No need to buy new - a simple update will do
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If you're like most homeowners, you have several furniture and decor pieces around the house that have seen better days. And while the natural response is to throw away outdated items and buy something new, even lackluster home objects deserve a second chance. You can easily transform your trash into treasure with a little creativity and some elbow grease.
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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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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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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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Add fresh grapes for great summer dishes
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Grapes from California are in abundant supply throughout the summer which is welcome news for those seeking a healthy, refreshing snack. They're also a boon to the home cook: grapes provide bright color, a sweet-tart flavor, and a refreshing burst of juice to warm-weather dishes.
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Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down
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While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest - setting health goals is a great first step. Sticking to those aspirations doesn't have to be difficult or stressful. Just follow a few expert tips and you'll look and feel great in no time.
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Get your car road trip ready
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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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Ask the Pharmacist: Controlling asthma during allergy season
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The sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and pollen counts are soaring ... and that means millions of Americans are dealing with the sneezing and wheezing that comes with seasonal allergies. While allergies are sometimes considered an uncomfortable nuisance, for the 25 million Americans with asthma, seasonal allergies can trigger serious attacks that if not managed properly could lead to a visit to the ER. Follow these tips.
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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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Tips for creating a greener outdoor living space
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Outdoor living spaces remain a popular home improvement, but while you're planning your patio or prepping your planting beds do you consider the impact these improvements might have on the environment? Creating a great outdoor space can be even more satisfying when you take steps to make your project as "green" as possible.
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Kitchen remodeling 101: Brush up on the basics
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In this economy, taking on a kitchen remodel can be a scary proposition. You're probably asking yourself plenty of questions. How drastically should you change the room? Do you need to hire a professional? Can you still recoup money spent on remodeling if you sell the house? Have no fear - these six tips will get you remodeling like a pro without losing your mind or breaking the bank.
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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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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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Traveling made simple: easy, convenient snacks to tag along on your next trip
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With family vacation time nearly here, it's tempting to give in to "fast" food options on the road. But faster options usually leave a lot to be desired as far as nutrition goes, especially for little ones. Try these creative ways to spice up your family's snack routine and help you enjoy delicious and nutritious snacks on the go.
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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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