Relax while planning your wedding with these financial and budgeting tips

Planning and organizing a large and complex special event can quickly overwhelm a bride and groom-to-be, especially if the couple has no previous experience or training in large event organization. In addition to all the details of the invite list, the location for all activities for the big day and the special intimate details of wedding party gifts, getting to the big day without breaking the bank might seem impossible. Read More

'Phone, Keys, Gum' helps you remember your essentials [Infographic]

Bridal trends transform grandma's china from vintage to vogue

New brides are transforming something old into something new. That's according to the latest bridal tabletop trends. Read More

Summer snacking: As American as baseball, apple pie ... and jerky

How to manage money when you're between jobs

New baby checklist: Tips to start securing your child's future

Your new bundle of joy has just arrived. In addition to midnight feedings and changing diapers, new parents need to take important steps to set up their children for success in the years to come. Read More

Moving this summer? Navigate the peak season like a pro

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. Read More

'Summer-ize' your home to look and smell wonderful in warmer weather

The three R's aren't just reading, 'riting and 'rithmatic. In the summer, they refer to "reorganizing," "restyling" and "reviving" your home. It's the perfect time to bring a summery, comfortable feeling to your home's interior. Read More

Tips for parents to protect kids from cyber bullying

Bullying has been present in schools since society started educating children in groups. In the old days, the bully's weapons of intimidation might have been simply stealing another child's lunch money, or shoving a victim down on the playground. Modern bullying is a high-tech type of antagonism - one that can reach a dangerous level. Here are some important tips for parents to protect kids from cyber bullying. Read More

Pregnancy can be a beautiful thing

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. Read More

Consumers, be aware: Know the facts when it comes to oil changes

With more than 300 million vehicles on the road today, motor oil is the lifeblood of any engine and can help protect and prolong its life, whether you're driving a compact car, pickup truck or SUV. However, not just any motor oil will ensure the healthy life of an engine and, unfortunately, discounted deals for an oil change may not be such a deal after all. Read More

The food and the fun that define summer

When the weather warms, there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to enjoy, which means there's also a bounty of summer fare to eat. From the traditional to the intriguing, you never know what interesting food choices you may find while out and about. What better way to kick off summer than with a few fun activities that pair good times with the foods that define the season? Read More

The changing role of parents today [Infographic]

Serve up an ideal space for summer outdoor entertaining

The arrival of milder temperatures means dining al fresco, hosting neighborhood cookouts and enjoying intimate cocktail parties under the stars. When creating a backyard oasis to entertain family and friends this summer, it's important that it be both inviting and able to withstand the wear and tear that goes hand-in-hand with warm weather fun. Read More

One thing you don't want to bring back from vacation

Bed bugs have been found in schools, homes, college dormitories and even the finest hotels. Protect yourself and your belongings when you're traveling by learning to identify these globetrotting pests. Read More

How your unused airline miles can help a child

Helping a child in need may be easier than you think, by redirecting a common resource that often just goes to waste. Read More

What parents need to know about concussions

Parents of young athletes know that along with the many benefits of participating in sports, there comes a certain amount of injury risk. And while most would agree that the benefits of being active and involved in athletics outweigh those risks, it's important to make sure your child gets proper treatment if an injury occurs. As more evidence surfaces about long-term health challenges related to concussions, it's especially crucial that parents bring themselves up to speed on the proper procedures for caring for an athlete who experiences a concussion. Read More

What to look for in your next smartphone

Seventy-nine percent of smartphone users have their phones on or near them all but two hours of the day when they're awake, according to a recent IDC Research report. For many, smartphone use is now a way of life, making it even more important to think carefully before you choose your next one. Read More

Secrets of what's driving American travelers this season

Now that spring has sprung, drivers will be hitting the road in earnest to enjoy the warmer weather. In fact, according to Hankook Tire's latest Quarterly Gauge Index, 56 percent of Americans are planning to take a road trip that involves driving 50 miles or more. On average, they estimate they will drive 1,025 miles. What is it about spring - besides the obvious pleasurable weather - that has so many people hitting the road? Read More

Facts matter when your health is at stake

Learning that you have a disease or medical condition can be overwhelming. You need to learn more about your condition. You may get advice from all directions. In the end, you want to understand your treatment options so that you can discuss your choices with your health care provider. But how do you know what information to trust? Read More

Getting organized: Learn your style and find solutions that work for you

Resolving to reduce clutter and get better organized seems to be a lingering item on many people's "to-do" lists, yet for many of us, it can be difficult to get started. While organization is an essential tool for navigating our complex modern lives, many people struggle to find their personal style of organization and a system that works within their busy lives at home, at the office or on-the-go. Just as specific organizational needs vary from person to person, so too do organizational styles. Read More

Accessorizing secrets for a beautiful home and a beautiful you

The fundamentals of good accessorizing are the same, regardless of whether you're dressing up your house or spicing up your own look. Whether you have a knack for pulling together an outfit as easily as a room, or can't quite seem to get it together, a few simple tips can help you enhance your style. Read More

Who has time for sick days? Tips to fight the cold, cough and flu this year

While health experts advise sick workers to stay home to avoid spreading germs, few of us can afford to take that many sick days off from work or home life. Fortunately, you can get by fighting cold and flu symptoms if you're not able to take sick days. Read More

Tips to select the right camp for your child

Soccer camps, wilderness camps, chess camps, language camps - whatever interests your child, there's a camp for him or her. Read More

Decluttering advice for those drowning in digital chaos

Smartphones, tablets, desktops, laptops, e-readers and music players - most of us have more than one digital device in our lives. Juggling so many devices and trying to sync data among them can leave you feeling like you're drowning in digital chaos. If you're looking to declutter your digital life, getting a handle on your music is a good place to start. Read More

What to do when your drinking becomes a problem

There's no denying that drinking is a widely accepted element of social life in America. Cocktail parties, evenings out, formal functions, and even a drink or two with dinner are customary practices. However, alcohol abuse is a major problem in this country and, on a different level, many "social drinkers" probably don't even know that they have a drinking problem. So how much alcohol is too much? Read More

Protect yourself from summer's backyard pests

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. Read More

Tips for new Mother's Day and Father's Day traditions

A strong financial education makes good 'cents'

No matter your age or income, having financial literacy will always be essential to making smart money decisions. Read More

Bringing home baby: When to call the doctor

Most new parents are anxious when their infant has a fever, or is fussy, stuffy and simply not acting right. But how do you decide to call the pediatrician or to wait - especially in the middle of the night? Read More

Easy Asian recipes for everyday and entertaining

Preparing a meal that will please everyone at the table is something that every host strives for. The vibrant flavors of Asian food are surprisingly easy to create at home - particularly when you have the right ingredients - and so versatile that they can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. Read More

Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always

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. Read More

Hey Mom, take a second for yourself [Infographic]

Surprising ways hot tubs heat up relationships

Recreating that spark or special connection with your spouse or significant other, free from the distractions of everyday life, isn't as difficult as you may think. The answer can actually be found in your own backyard. Read More

National Infant Immunization Week: a reminder of the importance of vaccination for children

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. Read More

Summer entertaining made easy

The weather is warming up and summer is right around the corner. From holiday celebrations to road trips, family vacations to block parties, it's the time of year for cookouts. Read More

Preparation and technology can help you weather the storm

The last few years have brought record destruction from natural disasters. Technology can help you prepare for the unknown. Whether it's building an emergency plan or securing your important documents, a little planning can make it easier to recover from a disaster. And fortunately, today, abundant technology tools are available to help you do just that. Read More

Safety tips for seniors: reducing risk, increasing peace of mind

If you're just entering retirement, chances are you have many years of good health and independence ahead. But the normal aging process still brings limitations that we all need to prepare for - such as slower reaction times and declining vision - which can lead to accidents and injuries. Many accidents are preventable though, and you can take simple measures to enhance your safety as you age. Read More

Need some summer birthday party game ideas? Look no further

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Revealed: keys to getting kids to eat more veggies

Incorporating veggies into your family's diet this summer can be easier than you ever thought. How? Creative parents know that adding flavor and making veggies a crunchy, fun treat can result in pleas for "more veggies please!" Read More

Technology makes it easy to work from home and enjoy summer to the max

No one wants to see a cloud on a sunny summer day, but when it comes to how technology can make your life better, a different type of cloud can actually brighten your day. Cloud storage - often referred to as just "the cloud" - makes it easy to work at home or from anywhere, plus it makes it a snap to plan summer activities. Here's how you can make your experiences less stressful and more meaningful with a few technology tips and tricks. Read More

Top three reasons to find your banking bliss

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. Read More

Smarter snacking for spring and summer

The air turns mild and warm, people gladly shed winter coats, and the days grow longer-everything about spring is lighter and brighter. Since the warmer months bring about many occasions to enjoy the best of backyard cookouts and boardwalk fare, the season's more indulgently delicious offerings may cause us to consider departing from our wellness goals. Read More

TV tip-overs a hazard for young children

Many homes have new TVs decorating the living room, bedroom, den and even the kitchen. These TVs often feature the latest wide, flat screens, which give viewers great definition and clarity. But while they provide a beautiful viewing experience, flat screen TVs are top-heavy on a narrow base, and they can easily be pulled off an entertainment center or other piece of furniture. Read More

Play day: How time-pressed families can find more time for fun

It waits for no one, flies by and can't be bottled, but it's the one thing everyone would like more of: time. In today's busy, hectic society it's harder for families to find time together for fun, yet spending quality time together is key to the emotional health of the family unit and of individual family members. Read More

Outdoor gear that performs year-round

Rugged camping gear is no longer just for adventurers and niche outdoor sports. High-tech or activity-specific outdoor products are gaining popularity because they also come in handy every day and around the house. Read More

Fun tips for fantastic family vacations

Family vacations are always a great time for family bonding and exploring new places. With some careful planning, the trip can be packed full of fun from the minute you lock the front door to the minute you arrive back home, exhausted and ready to share stories of your adventures with friends and family. Read More

Time-pressed in the kitchen? Rediscover pressure cooking

There's nothing like the smell of a home-cooked meal wafting through the kitchen for hours and hours - that is, if you have time to prepare such a meal. Since most of us don't have that sort of time on a daily basis, many time-pressed cooks are rediscovering pressure cooking: an age-old cooking method that makes mealtime fast and easy. Read More

Four health checks every woman must do - for herself and those she loves

American women spend more time taking care of their families, homes and jobs than themselves. Women who consider themselves generally in good health and who are very busy may be less inclined to stay on schedule with important health checks. Here are four health checks every woman should have. Read More

Dining outdoors? Tips for keeping food safe and delicious

Al fresco dining is one of the great pleasures of warm weather. Whether you're hosting a neighborhood barbecue or an intimate dinner party on your deck, outdoor dining is a great way to savor good food, company and the great outdoors. To ensure your meals are safe and enjoyable, it's important to know how to prepare, transport and store food for outdoor eating. Read More

On the move? Use these packing tips and tricks

While relocation may never be completely carefree, there are ways to ease the anxiety. A well-thought-out approach to boxing up belongings can help simplify the moving process and bring you one step closer to making your new house a home. Read More

Innovations inspire high school girls to become next generation of female innovators, change the world through STEM

When the high school class of 2014 graduates from college in five years, more than 8 million jobs will be available in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). For students today, STEM is their future. Read More

Impromptu party planning: How to create great gatherings in 30 minutes or less

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. Read More

Money and marriage: Tips to achieve financial happiness

Fights over finances are a commonly known cause of stress and divorce, and a new survey indicates that while the average couple fights over money five times a year, they discuss finances reasonably fewer than two times a month. Every couple knows there are some topics you just don't bring up - his mother's dreadful cooking, your uncle's bad manners. Money, however, should never be among those subjects you don't discuss - especially if you're planning your wedding. Read More

Modern day dad [Infographic]

Stretching your summer entertaining dollars

Warm weather is "special occasion" season. Whatever your event - a wedding, graduation party, family reunion or July 4th fete - summer celebrations have one important thing in common. Everyone wants to get the most bang for their buck. Here are timely tips to stretch your entertaining dollars this summer season. Read More

Ease travel worries with three simple tips

Traveling has its fair share of challenges, from never-ending lines to unexpected layovers and uncomfortable flights. Fortunately, by incorporating just a few expert tips, traveling can be less stressful whether you are jetting off for business or pleasure. Simplify travel with these easy tips. Read More

Financial considerations beyond the 'fiscal cliff'

With the agreement reached at the eleventh hour of 2012 to avert components of the so-called "fiscal cliff," nearly all taxpayers will be affected in some way. With that in mind, there are still many things you can do this year to prepare for potential additional tax changes and to take control of your financial situation. Read More

Frequent spring allergy questions answered

Spring is in the air - and that means pollen, mold spores and other airborne allergens are going to bring on sneezing and wheezing for an estimated 40 to 50 million Americans. Read More

Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes

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. Read More

Programming your child's health - 5 nutrition tips for baby's future health

Studies show that what a woman eats just before and during pregnancy will impact the health of her child for the rest of his or her life. It's an area of research called fetal programming. Here are some nutritional tips for mothers to help support their children's future health. Read More

Don't let these myths rain on your retirement party

Cycling into spring [Infographic]

Ask the Pharmacist: Poison prevention starts at home

It's a serious problem with a simple solution. Nearly 1 million children under the age of 5 are exposed to potentially poisonous medicines and household chemicals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no better time than now to learn more about preventing accidental and unintentional poisonings. Read More

Expecting dinner guests? Tips for managing different diets

With food allergies and gluten intolerance on the rise, it takes more than seating flexibility and a vegetarian option to host a successful dinner party these days. Hosts today need to be able to accommodate a variety of dietary needs, from providing kosher foods to gluten and nut-free items. Read More

How classroom technology can benefit your child's education

While the digital divide has a worldwide reach, it's important to remember that the gap is growing in America, too.Today, the majority of schools in America have computers of some kind. Still, many schools, particularly rural schools and those with a high percentage of minority students, lack reliable Internet access or have old computers that aren't compatible with current software. Concerned parents, teachers and educational leaders are rallying for change. Here's what you need to know and what you can do about it in your community. Read More

Look no further than your freezer for Dad's perfect gift

As children all over the country prepare to honor their dads for Father's Day or a special birthday, it might be time to say "no" to the soap and ties and give him what he really loves - a home- cooked meal. Read More

Two-in-one tools for busy moms on the go

Any mom will tell you there are never enough hours in the day to "do it all." Research indicates working moms spend 10 hours more a week multitasking than working dads - making useful, efficient tools Mom's secret weapon for getting more done. Whether yours is a family of three or 13, try these multi-functional tools to keep up around the house. Read More

How stay-at-home moms can prepare for retirement

When women choose to leave the workplace in order to stay at home and raise their young children, they make certain trade-offs. For example, they usually give up the chance to earn more money in exchange for the opportunity to spend more time with their children during their formative years. Read More

Get smart about buying insurance

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. Read More

Hands-on advice for getting the best from your touchscreen mobile device

From its very basic beginnings in the mid-1960s to the first consumer applications on ATM machines in the '80s, touchscreen technology has reached virtually everywhere - including our pocket-sized mobile devices. As astounding as the touch-enabled smartphone or mobile device is, you still need to handle and use it wisely in order to ensure its optimal functionality. Here is some hands-on advice to help ensure you get the best out of your mobile device. Read More

Four simple, smart ways to save toward summer travel

Summer vacation is an important American tradition. Traveling together gives families, couples and friends the opportunity to relax, bond and experience new places. Consider these four important points when you're thinking about how you will fund this year's summer vacation. Read More

Boomers turning 65 face complex healthcare choices

Every day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Not everyone will sign up, but it's important to understand the importance of early choices when enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Read More

Safer flying strategies for travelers with peanut allergies

Coping with a peanut or tree nut allergy, however, doesn't mean you - or your peanut- or tree nut-allergic child - have to forego the convenience of air travel. You can take steps to minimize your risk of having an allergic reaction while flying. Read More

Survey: More parents pursuing college degrees, talking to children about higher education

Enhanced earning potential and more career opportunities are two of the many benefits of earning an advanced degree. Now, many mothers and fathers in America have discovered another benefit of going back to school - it is a great parenting tool. Parents are considering higher education not only to help them get ahead in the workplace, but also as a way to set a positive example for their children. Read More

Digital apps make learning fun for young children

Today's children grow up in a vastly different technological world than that of their parents or grandparents. While you may fondly recall a favorite storybook stored on your nightstand, many kids today are reading using their parent's smartphone or tablet. Digital devices are becoming a regular part of a child's life, and parents should understand what this means for how kids learn and grow. Read More

A recipe for fun: Tips for hosting a family-friendly brunch

Nothing gets your day off to a better start than a tasty breakfast - but on most days, you're too rushed and stressed to enjoy it. Thankfully, on weekends and holidays, it's a whole different story. There's time to relax, enjoy the company of family and friends and prepare and serve that best-loved of all leisurely meals: brunch. Read More

Bringing up your baby: 7 financial decisions for new parents

Secrets to a fun, enjoyable and fuss-free sundae bar for summer entertaining

Yummy flavors, delectable toppings and the freedom to mix them together however you choose - who doesn't love a sundae bar? With all the options available, a sundae bar may seem like too much work to pull off, but it doesn't have to be. Read More

Top 10 ways to clean like a pro for spring

Though it might not be the most exciting task, an annual deep clean means a great deal to the health of your home - and to those in it. Tackling the job like a professional can save you time and money, so follow these top pro tips to stop procrastinating and start cleaning. Read More

Prevention, detection tips for the most common type of cancer

Melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, has steadily increased over the past three decades - to the rate of one American dying an hour from it, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Detecting melanoma when it is most treatable is key to survival. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, and improve your chances of catching it in its most curable stages. Read More

Five unexpected ways to get your kids to eat veggies - and like them

Peas, carrots, broccoli and spinach ... some kids love vegetables, but many do not. We know that veggies provide nourishment, especially for growing children, but getting your kids to eat healthier can be a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to increase the amount of veggies in your kids' diets. Here are five tips to get the little ones in your life to eat - and even enjoy - their vegetables. Read More

Medicine cabinet makeover tips for people with high blood pressure

If you're among the 68 million Americans who have high blood pressure, you may feel that taking your medicine, getting plenty of exercise and eating a healthy diet means you're doing everything you can to manage your condition. But with cold season in full swing and many areas of the country recording record numbers of flu cases, it might be time for a medicine cabinet makeover as well. Read More

College career services go social to connect students and employers

College students need little encouragement to use social media to interact with their classmates, family and friends, but many are still leery of using the platforms when it comes to seeking employment. Read More

Knowing your health heritage: the familial link of diseases

Family members can have many things in common, including physical characteristics and personality traits. While some traits are obvious, like having red hair or blue eyes, some shared traits are not as obvious, such as the risk for developing a common medical condition, like high cholesterol, or a rare disease. Read More

What every parent needs to know about keeping kids safe around medicine

Every year more than 67,000 children are treated in an emergency room for accidental medicine poisoning. That's one child every eight minutes. Even more surprising is that in 86 percent of serious cases seen in emergency rooms, the child got into medicine belonging to an adult. Read More

Hitting the road or water? Tips to make outdoor time fun, memorable and safe

Americans are falling in love with Mother Nature all over again, which could be why ownership of boats and recreational vehicles is more popular than ever. If you own a boat or RV, do you use it frequently, or is it sitting in your driveway? It's time to get the most out of it, and with a few simple ideas, you'll be able to hit the road and create some wonderful family memories. Read More

Tips and tricks for your next summer soiree

Looking to throw an all-out summer soiree that is bound to be the talk of the neighborhood? Or maybe just an intimate barbecue with some of your friends? Don't be afraid to explore new ideas for hosting your summer party, showing off your hosting skills to all your friends. Read More

The Modern Mom: Redefining Perfect [infographic]

Reduce brain drain in your kids over summer

The second the school bell rings signaling that school's out for summer, it seems that children immediately forget everything they've studied over the past nine months. When they return to school in the fall, playing catch up takes time. Read More

Tips to keep potty training positive

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. Read More

How to support your friend in a split

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. Read More

Travel: cruising 101

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. Read More

Why a normal Pap test may not mean you are cancer-free

Many women know that getting a Pap test regularly from their health care provider is a good way to check for signs of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women worldwide. What they might not know is that a "normal" Pap result does not necessarily mean they are cancer-free. Read More

Do's and don'ts of shopping for dads and grads

Father's Day and graduations are coming up, and that means you'll have to think of appropriate gifts for these heralded champions. You don't need to spend a fortune to make gift recipients happy, all you do need to do is put some thought into their presents. A few tips and tricks will help you pick out a gift the recipient is sure to love. Read More

Surviving summer vacation: 5 tips for an enjoyable season with family

With summer ahead, parents are busy making plans for camps, sports and vacations. This time of year can be challenging, but there are ways to make it more enjoyable. Read More

The man cave: Give Dad a space all his own

This Father's Day, give Dad the ultimate gift and make him his own man cave. It's easier than you think, and a thoughtful gift that says to Dad, "I love you, and you can run away from us now." Read More

When ordinary distraction is something more: diagnosing ADHD

What parent hasn't had to call a child's name more than once to get his attention? Or wondered how she can still be "bouncing off the walls" at the end of a long, tiring day. Moments of intense activity or occasional inattention are typical kid behavior, but for some children the problem is extreme and impairing. How can parents tell if their child's energy or distraction is ordinary or something more? Read More

There's more to Girl Scout cookies than what's in the box