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How to use the three Ps of decorating for an instant home and garden makeover

How to use the three Ps of decorating for an instant home and garden makeover Looking for a trendy home and garden makeover that gives instant gratification and doesn't require a lot of time and resources? The latest trends in fashion and home decorating are drawing inspiration from the bright colors and laid-back attitudes of the tropics.

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Easy tips to create a relaxing experience at home

Easy tips to create a relaxing experience at home In our fast-paced and chaotic lives, we're always seeking ways to relax and de-stress from the day. For some, that means watching a favorite TV show, having a nice glass of wine, or even a message at the spa, but we often forget about our homes and the impact of its design on relaxation.

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Keeping on top of your child's asthma care during allergy season

For many with seasonal allergies, the start of spring means itchy eyes and a runny nose, but for the almost 25 million Americans suffering with asthma, the season can be much more threatening.

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Disability: What you don't know can hurt you

Disability: What you don't know can hurt you The average adult rushes off each weekday morning to work or school, focused on the busy day ahead. No one ever thinks that one day, suddenly, his or her life will be changed forever by a sudden, unexpected disability.

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Mexican food pairings inspired by today's hot flavor trends

Mexican food pairings inspired by today's hot flavor trends The summer party season has officially begun, meaning it's time to plan fun get-togethers with family and friends. Food is central to any great celebration, but you don't need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a unique and tasty menu. You simply need some great tips and easy tricks for pairing tasty food with refreshing drinks and party success will come naturally.

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The home improvement that will put your room redesign over the top

The home improvement that will put your room redesign over the top You repainted, replaced all the furniture and just finished recarpeting that room that needed a little design TLC. Still looking for the final touch to add drama to your room's transformation?

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Educational programs empower patients with lung diseases

Educational programs empower patients with lung diseases Complications associated with lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF) account for millions of emergency room visits each year. Many of these complications occur because the diseases are not being properly managed, which many - including several advocacy groups -- believe may be related to a lack of understanding and knowledge on behalf of the patient. For this reason, patient education has become increasingly important in managing lung diseases.

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Get in gear for better gas mileage this spring with eco-friendly tires

Get in gear for better gas mileage this spring with eco-friendly tires With warmer weather working its way across the country, people's attention is again turning to the environment and spring and summer driving. And as fuel prices continue to climb, gas mileage needs to be a consideration, as much for budgetary reasons as environmental impact.

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Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss

Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million American have hearing loss. Changing lifestyle habits, and treating a variety of health conditions can help to prevent hearing loss.

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Home improvement for your health

Home improvement for your health When considering home improvements, people tend to choose projects that will improve the value of their home. While this is important for a healthy bottom line, investing in the health of those living inside the home also is a value-added improvement. Having the right fitness equipment and resources at home can turn the best intentions to work up a sweat into a successfully completed workout.

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Five tips for creating a stadium-style lawn in your own backyard

Five tips for creating a stadium-style lawn in your own backyard Many homeowners think a professional-looking lawn requires a stringent water and fertilizer regime. While both water and fertilizer play their part, neither is the stand-alone key to a perfect lawn. These five tips offer homeowners simple solutions to achieving a great yard.

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What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision

What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision For most people, selecting eyeglass frames is the highlight of the eye appointment and the lenses are seen as pieces of plastic or glass that don't involve a lot of buyer choice. But on the contrary, the best eyeglass lenses today are as hi-tech as any smartphone, and the visual difference between adequate lenses and great lenses can be as pronounced as the difference between a standard TV and your new HDTV. Once you've experienced the latter, you'll never want to watch TV the old way again.

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Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products

Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products Although smoking is often touted as an expensive habit, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to aid in quitting smoking can seem like an expensive purchase as well. The reluctance to spend money on smoking cessation products leads many smokers to try to do it "cold turkey" - the most popular method for quitting smoking, but also one that frequently leads to relapse. However, the use of NRT products to quit smoking can almost triple a smoker's chances of success.

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The secret to successful dating: Know yourself first

The secret to successful dating: Know yourself first Even if you dated through high school and college, entering the dating world as a single, independent adult can be daunting. When it comes to dating, knowing who you are and what you have to offer another person is every bit as important as knowing what you want. Here are some tips for learning about yourself, and how to parlay that self-knowledge into positive dating experiences.

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Escape from reality by creating at-home retreats

Escape from reality by creating at-home retreats Life is hectic. And although technology has made our lives easier to multitask and stay connected, it also means that no matter where you go, it's hard to fully escape. While traveling to a remote island to get away for peace and relaxation would be a wonderful retreat, you can easily avoid the hustle and bustle of your daily routine by creating peaceful escapes throughout your own home.

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Taking a test drive: Do it right

Taking a test drive: Do it right When shopping for a new or used car, the test drive is an essential part of the process. While the test drive may be exciting, experts advise car shoppers keep emotions in check and evaluate the car in its entirety to make a good purchase decision.

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Green cleaning: great results without breaking the bank

Green cleaning: great results without breaking the bank While most people want to help the environment in theory, when it comes down to buying green cleaning products for their office or small business, many put concerns about effectiveness and cost above whether a product is "green."

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Elevate the traditional wedding with contemporary flair

Elevate the traditional wedding with contemporary flair If long-standing wedding traditions seem a little confining and out of date for your modern nuptial celebration, you're not alone. Lifestyles are trending toward practical and tasteful simplification. An easy-going elegance and a balance of formality and fun is now the norm. So you might ask, "How can creative couples introduce more contemporary options to their celebrations yet still craft a memorable, classy wedding?"

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Summer entertaining: Spend less time preparing, more time enjoying

Summer entertaining: Spend less time preparing, more time enjoying There's no question why summer is the best-loved season of the year: it's all about fun, relaxation and enjoying the beautiful outdoors. So, it follows that homeowners don't want to waste a minute of those glorious months of sunshine. When planning traditional summer get-togethers, save time by taking steps to ensure that your outdoor spaces are as low-maintenance as possible so that the focus is on the party, rather than the prep.

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Do-it-yourself deck-building tips

Do-it-yourself deck-building tips Looking for a way to enhance the use and enjoyment of your outdoor space? A deck addition may be the solution. A deck creates a designated area for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, while increasing homeowner satisfaction and home value. If you're a motivated do-it-yourselfer, building your own deck can be a fun and rewarding challenge that saves you money and ensures your outdoor space is tailored to suit you and your home.

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How to keep up with basketball this March no matter where you are

College basketball fans wait all year for the competition, tears, and excitement that make up the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. Since its inception in 1939, the way fans participate in, and follow along with the tournament has completely evolved. Today's fast-paced and highly publicized tournament requires a fresh look at the best ways to follow your favorite teams and celebrate this long-standing college sports tradition.

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Planning spring home improvements? How to find the right contractor

Planning spring home improvements? How to find the right contractor You've got a list of spring home improvements to do, a vision for getting them done, and you even have a budget. Now all you need is someone to do the work; it's time to hire a contractor. Yet even the best-laid home improvement plans can go awry if you hire the wrong person or company to do the job. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can help ensure you choose the right contractor.

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For motorists, delaying car care is a costly decision

For motorists, delaying car care is a costly decision Drivers count on their vehicles to get them to their destinations safely, but how well a vehicle runs depends on how much effort motorists put into protecting their investment in their cars.

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Eclectic design trends breathe new life into your room

Eclectic design trends breathe new life into your room The newest interior design trends are invoking a playful vibe into rooms by mixing and matching different styles for an eclectic, fun look. According to "ELLE Decor," home decorating is shifting toward a more theatrical and eclectic decorating style highlighting richer colors, layers of textures and patterns and a fusion of time periods, styles and atmosphere.

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Six apps to help bring out the photographer in you

With cameras built into smartphones and tablet computers, it's easier than ever to take photos wherever you are and whenever you want. There are also more photography-related apps - or software applications for mobile devices - to help edit, improve, share or store these pictures. Here are some top apps you must know about.

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Home organization for the busy household

Home organization for the busy household Between work, school, children's activities, family obligations and travel plans, today's busy families are left with little time to keep their homes tidy and well-organized. With summer fast approaching, it is important for on-the-go families to realize that home organization does not have to be difficult or time consuming.

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Let your hobby guide you to your perfect travel destination

Let your hobby guide you to your perfect travel destination With so many choices in travel destinations, sometimes it's best to plan a vacation around your passion.

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Volunteering: small acts, big change

Volunteering: small acts, big change For many communities across the country, the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Whether it's working at a local soup kitchen, visiting a nursing home, mentoring youth, or helping to paint a local house in disrepair, there are many ways to get involved.

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Teachers deserve recognition for all their hard work

Teachers deserve recognition for all their hard work Teachers touch the lives of thousands of children throughout their careers. A good teacher can help a child who hates math learn to love numbers, a shy child become a social butterfly or enable a child who can't read to learn the wonder of books. If you have children in school, you know firsthand how hard their teacher consistently works to ensure they learn, have fun and grow. Teacher Appreciation Week is May 7 to May 11 - this is the perfect time to thank your children's teachers for the important role they play in your lives.

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U.S. foster care population continues to decline

U.S. foster care population continues to decline There are more than 400,000 children in foster care across the United States, according to the most recent report released by AFCARS (Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System). This is a sobering number. The encouraging news is that this number continues to decline - down more than 8 percent from 2008, and nearly 30 percent from 1999, when there were nearly 570,000 foster children. One primary reason for that decrease is the implementation of proactive social service programs.

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Four easy steps to jump-start outdoor spring cleaning

Four easy steps to jump-start outdoor spring cleaning If the warmer temperatures, bright sunshine and greening of spring give you the urge to clean, you're not alone. If you want to make spring cleaning easier, especially outdoor spring cleaning, a little planning will save lots of elbow grease.

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Adapt your vehicle and driving habits to combat rising gas prices

Adapt your vehicle and driving habits to combat rising gas prices Just as Americans are gearing up for warm-weather road trips and family vacations, prices at the gas pump are rising. For most people, driving is essential for getting to work, taking kids to school and going out to have some fun, so filling up the tank is a non-negotiable expense. However, costs add up quickly as fuel prices climb higher, taking up more of your budget.

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Professional grilling tips for the perfect backyard barbecue

Professional grilling tips for the perfect backyard barbecue Grilling season has arrived. The unique flavors of sizzling meat on a hot grill are loved by Americans young and old. Whether you're an enthusiastic foodie or a simple family chef, it's time to get outside and perfect the art of the barbecue. If you're new to grilling, it's easy to make some wrong turns. No one wants to end up with dried out chicken, burnt steak or flavorless ribs. When you're cooking, keep in mind a few tips from the pros.

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Where will you 'goal' on your summer vacation?

Where will you 'goal' on your summer vacation? Competitive events flourish during the summer. If you run, mountain bike, water ski, swim, rock climb or otherwise enjoy outdoor activities, you have the opportunity to do something bold this season. Why not plan your summer vacation around a goal instead of a destination?

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Resolutions small business owners should keep all year long

While we all start the new year hoping to better ourselves, business owners have another improvement goal to think about: strengthening their business. But while personal promises to go to the gym more or read 50 books often fall by the wayside, business owners have to keep up their efforts to keep their ventures thriving in a strained economy.

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Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies For many, spring signifies the budding of flowers and longer days filled with warm sunshine. But for one in five people, spring also means allergies are in full swing. Whether you're affected year-round or during a specific season, learning how to manage allergy symptoms can be vital to restoring your comfort and quality of life.

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Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality

Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality Nearly 90 percent of American homes have hard water - water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium, according to The U.S. Geological Survey. If your shampoo and soap don't lather up like they should, if you see scaling on your pipes and showerheads or if you have nasty brown rings in your sinks and toilets, your water is probably hard. To know exactly how hard, and what to do about it, you should have your water diagnosed by a water quality professional.

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Living green and eating clean

Living green and eating clean The trend of protecting the environment continues to gain momentum, and people everywhere are adopting more eco-friendly lifestyles. Within this movement, a growing number are taking a look at their diets and seeing how eating more natural foods can improve their health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

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When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough? Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better quick.

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Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas Does spending time on your deck "do it for you" - or does your deck simply "do the job?" Now that warm weather has arrived, you'll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to company. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less.

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Tips to keep your vehicle safe and looking great this summer

Tips to keep your vehicle safe and looking great this summer Small inconveniences can become much larger problems if not taken care of early, and unfortunately, many drivers fail to address vehicle problem signs until it's too late. Frequent checks and proper maintenance can make all the difference between a safe, attractive vehicle and an unreliable eyesore. With a few tips, you can get your vehicle into top shape for easy cruising this summer and beyond.

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Despite setbacks, swimmer takes head-first approach to reaching Paralympic gold

Despite setbacks, swimmer takes head-first approach to reaching Paralympic gold By 10 a.m., Anna Johannes has crossed more off of her daily to-do list than most strive to accomplish in a week. As a swimmer with her eyes set on the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, every moment of her day counts as she balances training, practice, taking college courses and completing homework assignments.

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How to understand credit scores

How to understand credit scores Even if you review your credit report every year - and you should view it more frequently than once every 12 months - it's easy to be confused by credit scoring. To help you better understand credit scoring and how it affects your financial wellbeing here are answers to six basic credit score questions.

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Save time and money by learning IRA rollover basics

Save time and money by learning IRA rollover basics The two things that everyone could use more of are time and money. One way to help free up some of both is by rolling over your existing retirement assets into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). An IRA rollover may give you greater control of assets spread across multiple accounts and potentially offers improved diversification, flexibility, guidance and service. This could save you money in fees and other costs from different accounts as well as cut down on financial paperwork and other headaches from dealing with multiple assets.

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A small business owner's guide for choosing a fast, quality print vendor

A small business owner's guide for choosing a fast, quality print vendor Before the advent of digital printing, small business owners would be hard pressed to find a print vendor willing to take small orders, fast turnarounds or requests for customization. Now, print vendors are plentiful, and with so many of them vying for your business, it can be difficult to know which one offers the best services and the best deals.

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Homeowners' emphasis on energy efficiency grows.

Homeowners' emphasis on energy efficiency grows. Even in a volatile economy, homeowners are making home upkeep a priority. While the number of projects annually had been on the decline in recent years, a study from BuildFax, a resource for building, remodeling and repair information, found remodeling activity was up in 2011 over 2010. Additional data shows homeowners are opting to invest in what matters most with projects that benefit their wallets, personal comfort and the environment.

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Effortless ways to be more eco-friendly

Effortless ways to be more eco-friendly Perhaps the most common misconception about going "green" is that it takes a lot of effort. On the contrary, as environmental awareness grows, it's now easier than ever before to bring an element of eco-friendliness to virtually every aspect of your life.

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Love and relationships: Setting expectations essential before unmarried couples commit to living together

Love and relationships: Setting expectations essential before unmarried couples commit to living together It has become the new norm: Unmarried couples deciding to live together. In fact, the number of unmarried, opposite-sex couples who shared the same living quarters jumped by 13 percent, to 7.5 million, in 2010 over 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of same-sex couples living together is about 620,000.

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Retirement planning dos and don'ts

Retirement planning dos and don'ts As with most things in life, it's never too early to plan. And even if you are not at the doorstep of retirement, there are some critical dos and don'ts related to retirement planning, that anyone could benefit from.

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Nip seasonal allergies in the bud

Nip seasonal allergies in the bud When everything comes up roses, so do spring allergies. Forty million Americans suffer from outdoor and indoor allergies in the United States, making it one of the country's most common, yet overlooked health conditions. In fact, allergies are the fifth-leading chronic disease in the U.S. for all ages.

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Preseason home-readiness tips for sports fans

Preseason home-readiness tips for sports fans As the weather gets warmer, fans anxiously wait for their favorite sport to take center stage. The athletes involved have been training for months for these moments, but what about the fans watching at home? Before the must-see sporting events of 2012 arrive, make sure you have all your bases covered at home. Here are a few tips to make sure you're ready.

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Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects Now, while the winter is still around, is the best time for homeowners to get a jump start on planning and prepping for their spring and summer home and garden projects; so when the weather really does warm up, it takes little effort to get the projects underway. In addition to fine-tuning home improvement and gardening plans, it is also a good idea to make certain the required tools are in tip-top shape, so the projects are not delayed.

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Achieve your ideal life, one goal at a time

Achieve your ideal life, one goal at a time Are you living your ideal life? If not, you're not alone. In fact, you are among the vast majority of people worldwide. Here are some proven strategies us that can help you plan and achieve more than you ever thought possible

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Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort

Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort Gardening is very healthy, both physically and mentally. In addition to providing exercise, gardening delivers health benefits in the fresh foods you eat and in the calming presence of flowers in your environment. Here are some tips to get the most out of gardening's health benefits.

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Easy lawn and garden tips for summer

Easy lawn and garden tips for summer Having a beautiful lawn and garden doesn't mean the work has to be difficult or complicated. With a little planning and the right tools, you'll spend less time working and more time hosting cookouts, lounging in the sun and watching the kids play in the backyard. Here are some top lawn and garden tips that keep work easy.

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Home decor evolution: Trends anyone can try for an instant update

Home decor evolution: Trends anyone can try for an instant update Gone are the days when a stylish home and a busy family have to be mutually exclusive. Home decorating is hotter than ever and everyone is getting in on the trend. With an ever-increasing focus on DIY design projects, resources such as shelter magazines, design blogs, TV shows and online home decor retailers are making high design accessible to any homeowner. If your budget doesn't include hiring an interior decorator to update your decor, a few tips from the experts will go a long way.

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Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence

Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence Your growing child needs love and attention to help build confidence to continue to try and succeed at new things. From learning how to read, preparing for grade school to being able to ride their first two-wheel bike, it's the positivity from Mom and Dad that keep kids striving for more. Sometimes kids transition with ease to the next stage in development, and other times may experience a few bumps in the road prolonging transition. One of those areas where a child might need an extra boost of confidence is when they are experiencing an issue with wetting the bed at night.

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Baby boomers: Don't let your world fall silent

Baby boomers: Don't let your world fall silent The number of Americans struggling with hearing loss increases by the day. Hearing aids from a generation ago carry the stigmas of being clunky, uncomfortable and ineffective. And many image-conscious Americans ignore their hearing loss because acknowledging it brings negative attention and a perceived weakness. But hearing aid manufacturers have made significant strides in enhancing the natural performance, look and size of the latest hearing aids.

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It's never too early or too late to take control of your finances

It's never too early or too late to take control of your finances "Silly season" - the months of campaigning that lead up to a presidential election - is well under way, and it's a sure bet the country's money, finances and spending habits will be favorite issues for politicos of all persuasions. But while the debate and rhetoric is sure to be heated on both sides of the political fence, taking control of finances - specifically, your personal ones - is something worth considering this year. Remember, it's never too early or too late to take control of your finances.

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Hot trends for spring home improvement projects

Hot trends for spring home improvement projects Warmer temperatures, green grass and increased daylight help shake off the winter blues and inspire home and yard improvements to spruce up your surroundings. Whether you're remodeling to stay put, or putting your home on the market, consider home improvement and design trends as you plan your renovation projects.

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Protecting personal information extends beyond the Web, to mobile devices

For most people, it is rare to go a day without going online or using a mobile device. While having access to the information you want and need makes life a lot easier, it's most important to use the Web wisely. Today, keeping personal information safe is a concern for virtually anyone using a computer or a mobile device to access the Internet. Given the fast pace at which technology develops, staying up to date on the latest ways to protect yourself is vital to guarding your personal information.

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Gift wrapping tips: Fashionable and functional ways to make packages extra special

Gift wrapping tips: Fashionable and functional ways to make packages extra special The warm weather seasons are well stocked with special occasions. Whether you're saying best wishes at a friend's wedding or offering congratulations to a recent grad, it's easy to make your gift the brightest in the pile. Follow these simple tips to inspire your imagination and you'll create gift wrapping that's as special and personal as the present inside.

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Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women

Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women While heart disease continues to receive a lot of attention, certain myths surrounding the disease persist. A couple of the most common myths are that heart disease is more common in men than women, and that the first signs of a heart attack are the same for both men and women.

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The secret to a successful family vacation? Teamwork

The secret to a successful family vacation? Teamwork When it comes to planning your family's vacation, you can find a lot of value in that old saying "teamwork divides the task and doubles the success." Divvying up planning responsibilities helps ensure that one member of the family is not overwhelmed with tasks, and that everyone is excited about and invested in the trip.

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A beginner's guide for understanding the role of gold in your financial future

A beginner's guide for understanding the role of gold in your financial future Throughout these past several turbulent years, you have likely heard about investing in gold. Even with the increased exposure gold investments have received - as well as its place as one of the oldest ways people have accumulated and protected wealth - many Americans are still in the dark about the basic reasons why investing in this precious metal is important to their future.

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Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms Spring-like temperatures arrived early this year, and with them came early allergy symptoms for many: itchy throats and eyes, stuffy noses, sneezing, teary eyes and more. These developments come on the heels of the fourth warmest winter since record keeping began, according to the U.S. National Climatic Data Center.

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Where can you find the best barbecue this Memorial Day?

Where can you find the best barbecue this Memorial Day? Memorial Day marks the first long weekend of summer, and it is the perfect opportunity to kick off the season with a trip. Weekend getaways and barbecue are practically synonymous with summer, so why not combine the two? Here are some of the best areas around the country to discover whether you like your barbecue pulled, sliced, shredded, wet or dry.

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What everyone needs to know about estate planning, regardless of income

What everyone needs to know about estate planning, regardless of income There's a common misconception among the American public that estate planning is only the domain of the elderly or the very wealthy. However, that's far from the truth. The fact is estate planning is something that can be done by people of any income level, and should be considered by everyone.

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Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going As the sun stays in the sky longer and temperatures warm up, being more active is simply second-nature. Getting outdoors gives a new vitality to any exercise routine, whether you're kicking off training for your first 5K or maintaining a program you've enjoyed for years.

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Set the scene - and the table - for a perfect summer party

Set the scene - and the table - for a perfect summer party Simply put, summer is entertaining season. Patio parties come together at the last minute and long-planned events fill up the calendar months in advance. But no matter whether you're having an impromptu gathering or an invitation-only celebration, focusing on the flavors and sensory delights of summer will make your party a success, without demanding too much of your time.

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Taking control of your cancer diagnosis

For patients living with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), it is important to work with a CML healthcare team to discuss a treatment plan and to establish clear blood level treatment goals - which are specific to each person - to make sure he or she is achieving the best results. If a patient doesn't meet one of his or her treatment goals, they should discuss their options with their CML health care team and stay positive. There are things that patients and their doctors can do, such as making sure the appropriate medication is being given, which can help one get back on track.

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Trend alert: The future of in-store shopping goes high tech

Trend alert: The future of in-store shopping goes high tech Gone are the days of loading the station wagon and heading to the local mall to spend the entire day getting everything the family needs. Today, American shoppers are savvy and smart. They know exactly what they want and how they'll get it. As a result of this fast-paced shopping evolution, the retail environment is transforming, too. The next time you visit your favorite store, don't be surprised if you see high-tech innovations that enhance your experience and make shopping easier than ever before.

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Taking care of yourself can help take care of your loved ones

Struggling to keep those New Year's resolutions? Don't worry. Research shows that more than 65 percent of people break their resolutions within three weeks, and that it takes about a month of concerted effort to form a new healthy habit such as routinely working out.

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Simple solutions to common landscaping issues

Simple solutions to common landscaping issues There's one in every neighborhood - the house with the bright green grass, perfectly trimmed shrubs and flowers in full bloom. As you look at your own lawn, plagued with weeds and sparse patches, you wonder how your neighbor is able to achieve such a beautiful outdoor space. The secret isn't in how much time or money can be invested, but rather taking the right steps at the right time to eliminate lawn and garden problems.

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Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment Allergens lurk inside and outside your home, causing more than 40 million Americans with allergies to cough, sneeze and have itchy eyes all year long, especially in springtime. And, for 25 million Americans with asthma it can be even more problematic. You'd assume cleaning your home would help reduce these allergy triggers, but if you're not cleaning the right way, you could actually be making the problem worse.

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Insider tips from party pros

Insider tips from party pros As temperatures increase, so do the activities on your social calendar. From family reunions to graduations and weddings, warm weather means prime event season. If you're throwing a party of any kind, you likely need a few supplies. But you don't want to invest a lot of money in items you will only use once. So how do you host the party you envision without buying items you'll just have to store and maintain later?

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In retirement, how will you use your nest egg?

In retirement, how will you use your nest egg? Determining how to manage your nest egg during retirement can seem daunting without proper guidance. Here are some tips to get you thinking about your retirement income strategy.

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Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer

Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer Windows do a lot more than just let the light in and keep the weather out. They're both key elements in your home's overall design and in the unique look of each individual room. If you're redecorating for warm weather, updating your window treatments is a great, cost-effective way to completely change the look of a space.

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What working professionals should look for in degree programs

What working professionals should look for in degree programs The college experience means different things to different people. An undergrad straight out of high school might consider Saturday football games and fraternity events part of the deal. But if you're a working professional heading back to school, chances are you're going to be a lot less concerned with the extracurricular aspects of college.

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Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine Eating right and exercising are the two most important elements of a healthy lifestyle. We hear it time and again that these simple principles hold more power than the latest fad diet, and for those who heed the advice, the proof is in the results. However, it's not always easy to figure out what's really good for you in the process of building - or maintaining - a healthy body.

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Save money on your spring travel plans

Save money on your spring travel plans The long winter months have everyone itching to get out and do something new. For many Americans, this means planning a much-needed vacation - away from winter, work and school.

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How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites

How to protect your greatest asset - your home - from subterranean termites When it comes to protecting your home's value, you have no control over some of the factors that influence real estate values, like nearby retail development or the job market in your area. You can, however, take control over one major factor in your home's value, its health and the health of your neighborhood - termites.

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Changing minds about cloth diapers

Changing minds about cloth diapers "Cloth diapers are hard to use." "Cloth diapers are inconvenient." "Cloth diapers don't fit my busy lifestyle." These are some of the many reasons expressed by families about why they don't or won't cloth diaper, according to author and cloth diaper advocate, Kelly Wels.

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The stinky truth about a common pest

The stinky truth about a common pest Warmer, longer days, flowers blooming, birds chirping and the onset of the garden season are all glorious signs that cold weather is behind us. And, while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Mother Nature at work is refreshing, the good does bring a few, less-than-ideal issues - a major one being stink bugs. Unfortunately, this year may see the largest population of stink bugs across the U.S. to date thanks to the very mild winter weather pattern most of the country experienced.

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Tips for a smooth military transition

Tips for a smooth military transition Some 39,000 U.S. troops will be headed home from Iraq by year's end. Many will begin the difficult process of transitioning out of military life - including starting a second career. Some cities offer military veterans better employment opportunities than others.

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Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly Who's responsible for keeping infants safe from gear-related injury? Is it gear-makers, who must meet stringent manufacturing codes, perform strict mandatory government safety testing, and submit to oversight by safety-focused government agencies? Or are parents responsible? The answer, experts agree, is: both.

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Get your pool ready for safe family fun

Get your pool ready for safe family fun As the weather starts to warm, you can't help but stare at your backyard pool, anxious to begin a new season of memories with friends and family. No matter the season, pool safety should always be top of mind where children are concerned. With safety barriers - or layers of protection - in place between the home and the pool, you can experience the pleasures of backyard swimming pools and feel confident that children, grandchildren and visitors will be safeguarded from pool accidents.

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You can help: What to do if you suspect a child is being mistreated or abused

You can help: What to do if you suspect a child is being mistreated or abused It's a too-common scenario: you see a parent with a toddler at the store. The toddler misbehaves and, suddenly, the parent flies into a rage and screams at the child. The reaction only causes the child to cry louder, which leads to even more yelling by the parent. What can you do? Without knowing any of the family's history or its struggles, is it OK to step in at all?

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Daring creativity blooms in this season's floral decor

Daring creativity blooms in this season's floral decor A little black dress, a great pair of jeans and a leather jacket - some styles never go out of fashion. Some elements of home decor share that same sense of timelessness, and none more so than a simple floral theme.

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Eight secrets to safely buying a car online

Eight secrets to safely buying a car online The Internet has made it possible and practical to expand your car shopping search virtually across the country. Buying a new car online, however, is a lot different than other online purchases you might make, such as a book, music or movie. Buying a used car online is even more complex, because there can be far more unknowns to deal with.

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Just the right size: How to shop online

Just the right size: How to shop online Shopping online for clothes has many benefits. Still, the concern that stops many people from pushing their virtual shopping basket to check out is sizing. To learn how to order just the right size when shopping online for clothes, follow this advice from fashion school pros in Los Angeles and San Francisco.

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Five travel photography tips for your next vacation

Five travel photography tips for your next vacation Nine out of 10 people are planning to take two or more leisure trips this year, according to TripAdvisor's 2012 Travel Trends Forecast survey. Of these travelers, 42 percent are planning cultural trips that combine precious downtime with enriching experiences. But no matter where or why people take trips this year, travelers can make their getaways more memorable and share their experiences with great photos.

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The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk

The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk It's 3:30 a.m. and you've just rolled over in bed for what seems like the 500th time. As you watch the minutes on the clock tick by, all you can think about is how tired you are going to be tomorrow. While the cause of your insomnia may vary night to night, the outcome is still the same: you're not asleep. You're also not alone.

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Protect your identity as you would other valuables

There is good reason for the concern to protect your assets. You've worked hard to obtain them and will do everything reasonable to shelter them from harm. As has been true throughout time, as advances are made in securing and protecting our valuables, there's someone working just as diligently to gain access to your hard-earned assets. Your identity is no different.

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Upgrade your summer with an outdoor living do-it-yourself project

Upgrade your summer with an outdoor living do-it-yourself project Nothing says warm weather quite like backyard barbecues and pool parties. But if your outdoor living space doesn't quite make the grade, you might consider building a dream deck with your own two hands. Do-it-yourselfers not only save money in labor costs, but they also reap the pride and satisfaction of improving and adding value to their homes.

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Pitch in and tackle do-it-together home improvement projects

Pitch in and tackle do-it-together home improvement projects Why do-it-yourself (DIY) when you can do-it-together? Now DIYers are teaming up with friends, families or companies to tackle home improvement and spring-cleaning projects.

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A man's guide to making high-impact, low-fuss romantic meals

A man's guide to making high-impact, low-fuss romantic meals It's time to banish that old stereotype that the only guys who can cook are professional chefs. Men, even if your culinary expertise starts with boiling water and ends at the microwave, you can serve a dazzling one-pot meal for your significant other, your best buds or just yourself.

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The guy's guide to mulch

The guy's guide to mulch One of the manly rites of spring, designed to impress the neighbors, is a fresh layer of mulch. But, did you know that it can also help prevent erosion and discourage weeds in the garden? Mulch is an invaluable ingredient to a successful growing season - so much more than shredded bark sprinkled around the base of an ornamental tree each spring. Get the facts on mulch to impress all the neighbors and have a great looking landscape to boot.

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Five must-have fitness tools

Five must-have fitness tools Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level.

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