Bex Barker
Bex Barker is a professed lover of all things retail who has learned many financial lessons the hard way. Her interest lie in home interior decorating, fashion, forced frugality, and exploring her new habitat in the city of Columbus.
Bex holds an MA in English Literature from Winthrop University where she met her goofy but lovable husband Steve. Currently the two can be found in their new lakefront rental home where they are often spotted swimming, canoeing, and enjoying life.
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Bex holds an MA in English Literature from Winthrop University where she met her goofy but lovable husband Steve. Currently the two can be found in their new lakefront rental home where they are often spotted swimming, canoeing, and enjoying life.
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- 6/9/2011
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M.A. in English Literature
Displaying Results 1 - 119 (of 119) for All Content
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How to find beauty trends that work for youIt can be tempting to hop on board of every beauty trend that heads your way. Instead of stocking up on a product that is in right now and may or may not last, experiment with something more subtle that is still "in" and less likely to be "out" soon. -
Fall Fashion: 3 not-so-new trends that are still in styleRevamping a wardrobe for a new season can get expensive. But before you start throwing everything you own in Goodwill, read this to learn a few things you can salvage without sacrificing style. -
Dry shampoo is a true time saverDry shampoo is something I only recently discovered, but since finding the one that is right for me, I am saving between 1.5-3 hours a week on prep time, and I couldn't be happier. -
Add some sparkle to work attireMoving from basic black to chic is easy, even in the work place. Adapt these outfits to work for you and feel more fashionable and confident in what you wear to work. -
Five Fall Fashion Must-HavesAs the seasons prepare to change, new additions to the wardrobe may be necessary. Read on to learn what I think are the five must-haves this fall/winter. -
First Person: I Updated My Cold Weather Wardrobe for Less Than $100Transitioning from summer to fall/winter doesn't have to be costly. Use your budget dollars wisely, combined with some borrowing/trading, and seasonal wardrobe updates can be budget friendly.
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Flavors of India: The Best Indian Food in ColumbusWhile there are many options for Indian cuisine in Columbus, Ohio, Flavors of India in the North Market takes the cake in quality, quantity, and affordability.
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First Person: Spending Time With Friends Without Breaking the BudgetSpending time with friends can become an expensive thing to do, but as I'm not willing to give up fun times with the friends, I've found several ways to keep the fun without overspending.
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Cleaning out the closet: 5 items to remove todayBeing fashionable does not mean hoarding trendy pieces that have never been worn and are likely to never be worn. Open some space in your wardrobe by purging these five items. -
Find fashion accessories on a budgetAdding fashionable pieces to my wardrobe doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. Below are some great sites for saving money while being chic and trendy. -
5 easy steps to transforming kinky curls into soft wavesI have had very curly hair since I was twelve years old, and I just recently discovered how to tame my mane into a more adult 'do. Though I still wear my hair in ringlets much of the time, I love having the option to wear it a different way. -
5 ways to love your legsTaking care of your legs doesn't have to be difficult. Read on to learn five simple ways to start you on the journey to loving your legs. -
Lance Armstrong Gives Up the Fight: Is He Innocent or Guilty? Fan ReactionLance Armstrong faces being dethroned due to allegations of enhancing his performance with drugs. This is my take on the issue at hand.
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First Person: 6 Surprising Money Savers Hiding in My HomeReusing items found throughout the home may not save thousands of dollars a year, but every bit helps a tight budget, and the saving of resources is equally important.
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First Person: How I Created My Dream Living Room for $200I have found that patience pays off when it comes to shopping for furniture. Read on to learn my steps to finding the perfect sofa for under $200. -
First Person: Starving College Student -- It's a RealityStarving may be a dire word in our case, but we have definitely had to trim our food budget to keep up with the rising price of food in stores and restaurants.
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Five Fashion Finds Under Fifty DollarsFashion doesn't have to break the bank. Some careful searching and price comparison can result in many fashion steals that will give your wallet a break.
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The Change in Girls' FashionChildren's fashion is swiftly changing as stores start catering to a younger demographic. Young girls now have outfit options that are very like their mothers'.
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Men's Summer Fashion: Key Pieces to Form a Summer WardrobeMen's summer fashion is easy with these key pieces. -
First Person: Is Putting a Vacation on Layaway a Good Idea?Lay away is hardly a new type of credit, but now even vacations can be put on lay away and paid for over a long amount of time--even if your credit card is too maxed to charge it.Also published on:
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First Person: How Obama's Insurance Mandate Could Affect My FamilyObama's insurance mandate affects everybody in different ways. My family hasn't been able to afford insurance for years, so if it came down to it we would have to face the fine rather than shelling out money we don't have for insurance with poor coverage.Also published on:
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Shaking up summer beauty routinesSummer is the perfect time to relax a little on that rigorous beauty routine. Instead of stressing about looking perfect, let summer be the time to wear a little less makeup and spend less time on getting ready.Also published on: -
Braids, buns and ponytails: Make the most of your hair this summerSummer style can be difficult when mother nature works against your best attempts at looking great. Luckily, there are several styles that work well with many hair types.Also published on: -
Power Outage Makes Cross-Country Move a Difficult ChoreThough my family and I were not living in the area affected by the power outage, our trip to move was nearly impossible due to the inability to get gas, a direct effect of the outage.
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My Random Set Up in a Christmas SweaterRandom set ups are rarely a good idea, as I learned through this blind date experience.
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Kitchen Canisters: An Easy Summer CraftSummer time crafting can be fun and simple. Read on to learn how to make your own attractive canisters from old pasta sauce cans and cupboard knobs. -
Downsizing Decorating: Moving From a House to an ApartmentMoving to a smaller space while still trying to keep your personal touch can be difficult. Rethinking a few pieces and making use of storage opportunities can make the transition easier. -
Personalizing a Rental Home With Temporary WallpaperPersonalizing a rental home can be tough with serious restrictions being put on altering the wall colors/textures. There's good news though for those who want a different look for their walls: temporary wall paper or fabric wall paper!
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First Person: I'm Saving Money While Still Pampering MyselfBeauty products, especially quality skin care, can really add up. Read on to learn how I've found how to not sacrifice pampering while still saving money by making my own facial cleanser and moisturizer.Also published on:
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Anchors away: Guide to nautical chic fashionNautical inspired fashion pieces are in this year from navy dresses to patterned tops worn with crisp white pants. Hop aboard the most versatile fashion trend of the season!Also published on:
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Full skirts ahead! Guide to the full skirt trend this summerThe full skirt is a wardrobe piece that is both feminine and sexy, and with the right accessories any woman can make the skirt work for her.Also published on:
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Essential Diving Terms for the 2012 Summer OlympicsDiving can be confusing, but this short, informative report breaks down the least you need to know to get you up to speed on diving.Also published on:
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Can't-Miss Diving Events at the 2012 London OlympicsA brief, informative rundown of the diving events and key U.S. divers for London's 2012 Olympic games.Also published on:
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Stepping up with summer accessoriesSummer's here, and it's time to update your accessories to reflect the trends in the fashion world.
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Summer beauty: Time to refresh that makeup routineAs summer strikes, makeup routines generally start to vary. Instead of dropping a bunch of money on some risky new products, weigh your options and make smart choices.
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First Person: I'm a ShopaholicBeing a shopaholic is embarrassing. Knowing how much money I owe for stuff I can't even remember buying is awful. Read on to learn about my experiences as a shopaholic and how I have started getting things under control.
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My Fitness Routine: How Walking and Enjoying the Lake Paid OffThe words "fitness routine" generally can be overwhelming. Many people tend to jump onto a work out trend and then quickly lose interest. Read on to see how simple activities that don't cost a dime can pay off in the fitness department.
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First Person: Saving Money on Summer TravelSummer travel costs can add up. Why not save money where you can? Read on to learn a few simple tips that could save you a little green.
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Summer Silhouettes: Updating a Summer WardrobeSummer wardrobes take a turn this year with bright patterns, fun color combos, and soft silhouettes. Read on to find some inspiration for updating your wardrobe.
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South Carolina's Best Places to View the Night SkySouth Carolina is a great place to view the night sky, with many beaches, lakes, and parks. Here are the top five best star-gazing sites in South Carolina.
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First Person: Is Facebook Undermining My Household Budget?Facebook's IPO happens Friday, so I take stock of how Facebook affects my own budget. Let's face it, a lot more of us use Facebook than will ever see a share of its stock.
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Sizzling Summer Suits for the 2012 Pool SeasonAs 2012 swim season approaches, finding that perfect suit becomes a real challenge. Read on to see this year's trends for a variety of bodies.
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Graduation: A Time to Remember the Past as You Reach for the FutureGraduation advice is everywhere these final days leading up to high school and college graduation ceremonies. The following is a sampling of that advice.
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Succumb to Spring Style: Out With the Cold and in With the NewAs the weather changes and the seasons march on, so should your wardrobe. Read on to check out some sassy spring styles that are sure to have you ready for spring.
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First Person: I Could Live My Dreams on $150,000My husband and I have the dream of running abroad for a year and living it up in style. But exactly how much money would be required to make that dream a reality? How much would we have to have in order to temporarily quit our jobs and take that vacation?
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First Person: I Cut $3,400 From Our Already Tight Family BudgetTimes are tough, and though we are already on a tight budget in the Barker household, we recently made a few changes in three key areas in order to tighten our belts just a bit more.
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Five Work-Appropriate Wardrobe Staples for WomenStocking a closet with work-appropriate wardrobe options doesn't have to result in a boring assortment of clothes that can only be worn for work. Read on to learn about five key pieces that work well for the work day but can also be worn out and about.
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Four Winter Wardrobe Necessities for WomenDressing for winter weather can result in drab, boring layers that leave women wishing for something a bit more exciting. Introducing these four winter staples into your wardrobe may help that wish come true.
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First Person: How Pinterest Saves Me MoneyBrowsing internet blogs often leaves me envious and ready to whip out the debit/credit card to make a coveted purchase. However, when I started a Pinterest account, I found ways to DIY many of my coveted items, and this has saved me a lot of money.
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First Person: The American Dream Is Still About Stability and HappinessThe American Dream has changed as times have shifted, but the outcome is always the same: people crave stability and happiness.
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Fashionable Packing: How to Cut Back on All That StuffPacking a suitcase for a trip of any length can be frustrating. Read on to find a system that enables you to pack fashionable outfits and accessories without sitting on the suitcase to zip it closed.
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First Person: The Smart Outlet Mall ShopperOutlet mall shopping has increased in popularity as people learn about the great deals that can be had. But are all the 75% off deals really worth it? Read on to learn a few helpful tips on making sure the bargains you're searching for are real.
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Leggings: Versatility and valueThough many women turn up their noses at the leggings trend, I believe the versatility and value of leggings make them a must-have garment.
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First Person: Debit Card Fees Won't Scare Me Away From Bank of AmericaThough many have jumped ship and headed for the nearest credit union, I plan to stay right where I am because even with annoying fees, I'm a mostly happy customer.
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First Person: Pain-Free Ways I Supplement My IncomeWith the impending holidays, our shallow gift-giving account spurred my family into action acquiring several small, additional jobs to supplement our incomes.
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Holiday Fashion Ideas: Classy Christmas Eve OutfitsWinter 2011 offers ladies many exciting, attractive options for holiday fashion. Read about some of the hottest fashions--in apparel and accessories--out there for ladies this season.
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Men's Fashion: How to Build a Functional Wardrobe a Few Affordable Pieces at a TimeMen are often overlooked in the fashion world, but they struggle with finding their favorite fashions as well. Read on to learn a few simple tips for men's wardrobe building.
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First Person: I Couldn't Be Happier About These New Debit Card FeesIn 2012 Bank of America plans to start charging a $5 per month fee for debit card use. Read on to learn why this ridiculous fee is in no way worrisome to my family and how it will actually help us refresh our financial outlook.
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First Person: No More Eating Away From HomeIn an attempt to make budget cuts where we can, my husband and I decided to stop eating at restaurants and ordering take out.
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First Person: Credit Cards Are My Dirty Financial SecretAlthough my husband thought we were on track financially due to a couples' financial class, in reality I had hurled our train off its track by spending irresponsibly enabled by a credit card.
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First Person: How I Give Great Gifts Without OverspendingChristmas shopping can be difficult when a tight budget restricts you from buying everybody "good" gifts. Read on to learn how I plan to avoid crappy gifts while still keeping my spending down this coming holiday season.
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Focus on Fifties FashionThe classic style of ladies wear from the 1950s is making a comeback in the fashion world.
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Playing with Colors: An Adventure Through My ClosetThough I generally dress in basic black, this fall I have started to branch out into the realm of bold colors. Doing so has stretched my wardrobe impressively, and I almost feel like I'm going shopping for new clothes each time I open my closet door.
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First Person: Keeping Myself Financially and Physically FitPhysical fitness can be difficult to maintain, and it can also be quite expensive with gym memberships and special food plans. Keep reading to learn how I managed to drop some weight the healthy way and actually save money instead of spending it.
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Revamping a Summer Wardrobe to Work for Early FallThe fall season often prompts shoppers to stock up on new styles, but stretching a summer wardrobe by adding a few new pieces is not only achievable, it's smart!
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First Person: The Hidden Costs of Competing in the OlympicsOlympians can shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars just for a chance to achieve their dreams of glory on the field. Find out what goes into making an Olympian.
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How Olympians Pay the RentOlympic athletes work hard to be the best in their sports, but we often forget that they need to pay their bills just like the rest of us. Find out how they do it.
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First Person: Road Tripping on a BudgetInstead of flying these days, my husband and I often opt to drive for extended trips in order to save money. However, I noticed an alarming trend of higher than necessary costs for these trips, so we devised a few ways to cut costs.
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First Person: Being a Good Guest Without Busting the BudgetBecause I travel often and like to be considered a good guest, I have often found myself spending the money I thought I was saving by not staying in a hotel on hostess gifts and expensive meals out. Then I learned how to trim this area of my budget.
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Three Women Who Belong in Ryan Gosling's Little Black BookRyan Gosling is an all around good guy. He's humble, he likes dogs, he has great abs, and he dresses well. What would he look for in a woman? The three women discussed below are three different types that could possibly tempt him.
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Good Etiquette: How I Affordably Welcome Guests into My HomeI love having guests stay in our home, but preparing for them can sometimes seem to be an expensive task. Read on to learn how I manage to be a gracious hostess without overstretching our budget.
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Peek-a-Boo! Three Celebs Who May Sport Baby Bumps SoonWith so many celebrities having babies lately, I can't help but wonder who will be next. The following stars are high on my list for a variety of reasons.
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First Person: The Dollar Value of Saying 'Thank You'An attitude of gratitude has helped me to resist my shopping temptations as I continue to pay down debt on my tiny budget.
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Thank You Notes: An Affordable Way to Follow EtiquetteThough I learned early the importance of thank you notes, I also found that as I got older fewer and fewer of my friends wrote them. Keep reading to learn how I make thank you notes an affordable priority.
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First Person: Falling Consumer Prices May Not Equal Budget ReliefSupposedly consumer prices are falling, but I don't feel the benefits. Find out why I ignore positive projections and keep my budget buckled down so I'm not thrown off the economic roller coaster.
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Three Fabulous and Comfy Shoe Types Perfect for Running ErrandsIf running errands seems to be limiting your wardrobe and shoe choice, keep reading to check out three shoe types that will have you powering through your to-do list in style and comfort.
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Bad Management Tanked Top Bookseller BordersLove it or hate it, it seemed you couldn't get away from Borders, but now they're closing for good. Find out what went wrong in bookworld that doomed the company to an early demise.Also published on:
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Julianne Hough's 23rd Birthday Wishes Come TrueOn this day in history, twenty-three years ago, Julianne Hough entered the world. Twenty-three years later she is known to celebrity watchers as a talented actress, singer, and dancer. Read on to see her birthday wishes come true.
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Apple's Secret Science: Come Angry, Leave SatisfiedApple has won the hearts of many consumers, and though I was hesitant to hop on board (and I still dislike going into an actual Apple Store), I too have joined the Apple-lovers committee.Also published on:
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First Person: Cutting Down My Wedding Budget the Easy WayWeddings are getting more and more expensive. And, though I was all about the big party with lots of fun, I also had to mind my budget.
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Jennifer Aniston: Her Five Not-So-Secret Tricks to Landing a Hot GuyWhether Jennifer Aniston's new relationship with Justin Theroux is meant to be or not, Jen has some envy-worthy tricks for attracting and catching her choice of men.
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First Person: What I've Learned From My Thrifty GrandparentsGrowing up close to my grandparents taught me many things: how to bake, cook, clean a house, and many other important lessons. I especially appreciate all the smart money tips they have taught me, both directly and indirectly.
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Shawn Crawford: SC native bids for third straight OlympicsYou may think Shawn Crawford is all washed up, but not if you saw him run at this year's Track and Field Championships in Eugene, OR. Get the scoop on why Crawford will be sprinting in London next July.Also published on:
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First Person: 4 Generic Products That Beat the Name BrandsName brand products promise high quality but also require a higher budget. Sometimes it is possible to replace a few name brand products with generic ones that do not require a sacrifice in quality but do promise savings.
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Latest Calvin Klein Ad Makes Any Woman Feel Like a SupermodelCalvin Klein is a fun designer who knows how to market his products. His continued use of high-profile, highly attractive models works to sell his goods to the everyday man/woman.
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Ivanka Trump Tweets about Childbirth, Joins Ranks of Oversharers OnlineThere is an overwhelming surge in Internet oversharing when it comes to childbirth. As a not-yet mom, I plan to keep my details on the down low. Read on to learn about my objections to putting everything out there.Also published on:
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U.S. Women's Soccer Has Heart, Wins Some New FansI never liked soccer. It's always seemed boring. But after seeing our girls beat up on Brazil and France in the World Cup, I'm stoked to watch the final against Japan.
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Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Makes Fashion Lovers' Hearts Beat FasterEach year the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale makes high-quality goods more accessible for shoppers. Discounted prices and a special shopping atmosphere make most shoppers look forward to this time of year, even going so far as to plan vacation around it.
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Three Cheers for Three Emmy Nods for 'Friday Night Lights'"Friday Night Lights" is a show based around the lives of teenagers who deal with very adult issues. Whether the show will win an Emmy is up in the air, but the TV drama is certainly worth a watch.
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Demi Lovato Sets Good Example for Fans with Honesty About Eating DisorderDemi Lovato is a young star who has struggled with an eating disorder and recently sought treatment for it.Also published on:
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Netflix Customers Will Come Crawling Back With Return of Favorite ShowsWith the price change in Netflix services, many people have complained and canceled their subscriptions. My bet is, with fall and winter coming, those same people who canceled will sign up once again, though my family probably won't be one of them.Also published on:
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Indoor rock climbing in Columbia, South CarolinaThink South Carolina is too flat for climbing? Well, here in Columbia we grow our climbing walls inside. Check out the best ones!
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Ted Danson Unlikely to Save Flailing 'CSI'Laurence Fishburne's career with "CSI" has ended as directors have opted to hire on Ted Danson in his place. But never fear: Fishburne is still going strong with a new movie and an impressive cast.Also published on:
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Rock climbing for beginners: What to wear on your first climbOne of the fun things about rock climbing--besides the love you'll develop for the crags--is the all the sweet gear you get to wear. But if you're a newcomer to the sport, it may seem intimidating. Find out the least you need to wear on that first climb!
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Rock climbing gear: Beyond the basicsFiguring out what climbing gear is necessary and what's just fluff can be difficult to figure out for the beginner. Find out the top five things to take on your climb beyond your shoes, helmet, and harness.
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First Person: 3 Affordable Ways I Enjoy the Summer HeatSummer heat can easily cause boredom and the desire to just stay inside. My family likes to try new things in order to embrace the heat. Read along to learn some of our favorite summer time heat-embracing activities.
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First Person: A New Teacher's Strategy for Back to School ShoppingSchool supply shopping can not only cost a great deal of money, but it can also take a lot of time. Read ahead to learn about one new teacher's "rules" to quick and easy school supply shopping.Also published on:
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First Person: 3 Affordable Ways to Revamp Our Rental HomeRenting a home can limit creativity when it comes to decorating and personalizing available space. Read more to learn a few fun and affordable tricks to help make a rental house more like a home.Also published on:
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Three Potential Pitfalls in Pyeongchang's 2018 OlympicsWhile South Korea looks to be able to produce a stellar games in 2018, there are some hazards it will have to overcome to shine on the world stage. Read on to find out what they are!Also published on:
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Good Pick: Three Reasons South Korea's Winter Olympics Should Be StellarThough South Korea is among the elite nations of the world, it is often overshadowed by its neighbors: China, Japan, and North Korea. Find out why the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang should be great.Also published on:
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JuneExperience a lovely June day in this villanelle by Bex Barker.
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Declaration of Independence a Feast of Words for Fourth of JulyToo often I think I don't have time for the Declaration of Independence. It sounds important, but I don't have the time to actually read it. Find out why I changed my mind this year.Also published on:
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First Person: Our $10 Date NightsFinding enjoyable things to do while on a pretty strict budget can be difficult. But with a little imagination and a lot of laughter, affordable or free activities are possible. Read on to find out how one couple manages to find fun just about anywhere.Also published on:
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Newsweek's Diana Cover Story a Crass Attempt to Sell MagazinesPrincess Diana is still alive. That's the premise behind "Diana at 50: If She Were Here Now" in Newsweek. Find out why people are up in arms over the scandalous portrayal of an alive and well Princess Di.Also published on:
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First Person: The 6 Surprising Money Savers Hiding in My HomeFinding new ways to use old things is not only challenging, it's also rewarding!Also published on:
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South Carolina Sees Big Cuts with 2012 Budget BattleNikki Haley is running wild on the South Carolina state budget, cutting spending on schools, the arts, and many other programs. Find out how these cuts are going down in the Palmetto State.Also published on:
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My Running with the Bulls in PamplonaThousands of runners, an alluring Frenchmen, 6 angry bulls, and little old five-foot-three me all trapped on a narrow street! Find out how I survived the adventure!
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First Person: Decorating a Home Without Breaking the BankFurniture is expensive. As a young, newly married couple, we don't have the money to buy "real" furniture yet. So instead we make use of what we can afford and make it beautiful.Also published on:
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First Person: My $50 Dinner PartyIf you have ever wanted to throw a get together for friends, you probably know how expensive it can get. Read on to see how I threw a fun potluck party without overextending my grocery budget.Also published on:
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Sewing Up a Storm Without Sinking a Tight BudgetSewing can be both rewarding and frustrating. If you're a good seamstress, it's probably more often rewarding than frustrating, but as a new sewer, I'm not that good. Read on to find out how I pay for this costly hobby on a less than flush budget
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Wedding of the Decade Kept Quiet: Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz Marry in SecretLadies and gentlemen, we gather today to remember one of the world's most eligible, delicious-looking bachelors ever to exist.
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5 Celebrity Name Changes that Will Have You Shaking Your HeadRon Artest is changing his name to Metta World Peace. Here are the five other most outrageous celebrity name changes.Also published on:
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The Age of Louis XIVDiscover the gilded world of Louis XIV's France. Mystery, intrigue and treasure abounded under France's most famous monarch, the Sun King.
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A Perfectly Imperfect HoneymoonAfter a stressful wedding week, a relaxing honeymoon is just what the bride and groom need to let go of their worries and enjoy each other. Follow one couple's imperfect trip to Jamaica and discover how sometimes perfection is overrated.
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Fyodor Dostoevsky: A Brief Literary BiographyFyodor Dostoevsky chronicles man's struggle to live in a morally uninviting and unforgiving world. His life and work abounds in passionate characters that always experience the world intensely. Find out more about the man and his books!
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First Person: Dressing Fabulously on a BudgetIf dressing well tends to stretch your wallet too far for comfort, read up on how you can fill the gaps in your wardrobe and your bank account.
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Small but Significant Ways to Save Money at the Grocery StoreIf you have ever dreaded the idea of going to the grocery store or wondered how to make those necessary trips less expensive, take a peek at some lessons I have learned on how to make my grocery money work harder for my family.
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First Person: Why I Only Shop With CashAre you an avid shopper who inevitably ends up spending more than originally planned? Read on to learn how I, a professed shopaholic, cured my buyer's remorse by taking only cash on my shopping extravaganzas.
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Lake Living on a Tiny BudgetHave you always wanted to live on the water but thought you couldn't afford the rent? Find out how one couple is going small so that they can live in the house of their dreams despite small salaries, student loans, and credit card debt.