Even if you’re not planning to sell your home any time soon, when you consider remodeling, you face this inevitable question: How much will this improvement add to the value of my home?Surprisingly, much of the time the answer is not as much as it costs to make the improvement.But some … [Read more...] about 17 home renovations that add value to your house
DIY spa day gift basket
What do you get the woman who has everything – or the woman you don’t know very well? A spa day gift basket is an easy gift because everyone likes to be pampered. Tired moms, overworked teachers and dedicated friends all deserve some me time and the opportunity to relax and indulge in self … [Read more...] about DIY spa day gift basket
30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
If you’re trying to create a new look in your bedroom or living spaces, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on new furniture or a remodel. With a little bit of imagination and some effort, you can decorate a house on a tight budget by repurposing what you already own and making smart … [Read more...] about 30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
Free and cheap ways to exercise at home
You’ve vowed to get fit, lose weight or build muscle, but a gym membership isn’t for you. Maybe those pricey monthly fees won’t fit in your budget, or you hate people looking at you when you’re sweating your way through a torturous hour on the treadmill. Or perhaps your personal schedule is so … [Read more...] about Free and cheap ways to exercise at home
Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
Whether you’re hosting a crowd for game day or watching the Super Bowl with just your immediate family, you’ll want to have snacks on hand to enjoy during the Big Game. But you don’t have to spend a fortune on takeout or pre-made treats to make a great party spread. Check out these Super Bowl party … [Read more...] about Cheap Super Bowl party food and snacks to make at home
10 guilt-free ways to stop overspending on your kids and grandkids
Raise your hand if you overspend on your kids for birthdays and holidays because you want them to be happy. Do you spoil your grandkids because you don’t see them often and hope that presents will lead to warm feelings? Do you wish your mom would stop spending money on your kids, or that you could … [Read more...] about 10 guilt-free ways to stop overspending on your kids and grandkids
13 ways to save money on road trips
Sometimes a good old-fashioned road trip is just the vacation you need. Driving vacations can be as leisurely or as hectic as you want, and you never have to stick to a schedule. They also can be more affordable than trips involving flights and resorts.That’s not to say there aren’t expenses. … [Read more...] about 13 ways to save money on road trips
Vacation hacks to save money on flights, car rentals, cruises and lodging
You’ve got your destination picked out, you’ve researched itineraries and you’re ready to plunk down some cash to book your next vacation. How much you spend or save depends on the booking tricks you have up your sleeve. Know the secrets to finding lower-priced flights, hotels, cruises, car rentals … [Read more...] about Vacation hacks to save money on flights, car rentals, cruises and lodging
12 free or cheap Mother’s Day gift ideas that cost little or no money
The value of a Mother’s Day gift is not how much you spend. It’s the time you take to prepare it, the thought you put into doing something that speaks to your mom, and the love you put into the gift. A perfect Mother’s Day gift doesn’t even have to be a tangible item, and it doesn’t have to cost you … [Read more...] about 12 free or cheap Mother’s Day gift ideas that cost little or no money
How to barbecue safely: Grilling safety tips for your summer cookout
The last thing you want to end up with after a barbecue is food poisoning or third-degree burns. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), grills and barbecues were responsible for more than 10,000 fires annually in people's homes, leading to 10 deaths, 160 injuries and nearly … [Read more...] about How to barbecue safely: Grilling safety tips for your summer cookout