Maybe your basement would be a great play area for the kids, or maybe you’re tired of looking at gray cement walls when you go downstairs. Whatever the reason, you’ve recognized the potential value of that extra space in your home. If you want to begin using that below-grade area confidently for storage, living or entertainment purposes, you also […]

If you’re thinking about installing a backyard swing set, it’s important to find the right equipment, an appropriate location and install it safely. Consider these tips as you select and install a swing set. Choose Your Swing Set Wisely Consider buying a swing set that your child can grow into, BobVila.com suggests. Look for an option that won’t just offer safety […]

  Hurricanes can be accompanied by hazards before, during and after the storm. Here’s a look at five hurricane-related hazards and how you can help protect your family and property against them. 1. High Winds Hurricane-force winds, which reach 74 mph or more, can carry debris through the air and damage buildings, the National Hurricane Center says. […]

If your small business keeps traditional business hours, it might be time to rethink your approach. Customers — particularly younger Millennial clients — increasingly expect to be able to engage with you on their schedule. “For that, you can thank the Internet and the proliferation of the ‘always-on economy,’” says Andy Birol, who coaches private and family […]

Growing your own vegetables can give you access to fresh, local produce right in your backyard — but can it help you save money on your grocery bill? According to a report by the National Gardening Association, one out of three households are now growing their own food. If you’re ready to unleash your green thumb, it’s […]

Your emailed receipts are saved on your computer. The bank statements you get by mail are haphazardly tossed into a desk drawer. Your car insurance policy is buried somewhere in a box. Sound familiar? If so, it may be time to spiff up your financial records organization system just a bit. The good news: “A bit” may be […]

Having healthy employees not only makes for a happier workplace, it’s also a smart way to run a business. After all, healthy employees use fewer medical and mental health services — and that could help save your company money. “Our research shows that 67 percent of employers cite ‘employees’ poor health habits’ as one of the […]

School’s out, and long summer days are ahead. While older teens often work seasonal jobs this time of year, now may be a good time for your 14- or 15-year-old to consider doing odd jobs for family friends and neighbors. Parenting expert Tim Elmore says gaining work experience is a good way to help your young teen […]

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, you’re probably thinking about ways thank your mom for everything she’s done for you. But why just limit it to one day of appreciation? Here are some ideas for nice things to do for your mom or the mother of your children to help her celebrate Mother’s Day all […]

Giving blood is an activity you and your family can participate in together to help your community and those in need. Oftentimes people will donate blood in response to a crisis, but America’s Blood Centers says blood is needed at all times of the year. In fact, the blood used in an emergency generally comes from donations made prior […]