Sylvia Cochran
Sylvia Cochran works out of sunny Southern California and has been freelance writing -- full-time -- since 2005. SEO-optimized Internet copy includes news analysis, political Op/Ed and parenting, gardening as well as automotive tutorials. Her ghostwriting work covers a variety of topics but primarily focuses on blogging, article advertising and real estate promotion. Sylvia earned her degree from the Denver Business College.
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The end does not justify the means; instead, the means frequently alter the end.
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Displaying Results 1 - 186 (of 186) for Yahoo! US Shine
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5 unique ways to impress Thanksgiving guestsImpress guests with spiffy new Thanksgiving menu ideas and some simple yard work. Who knew that hosting Thanksgiving is an exercise in cutting edge culinary exploits and gardening? -
Teaching your preschooler to count supports future math skillsTeaching kids to count will be as fun and innovative as you make it. While it may sound like a tall order, it is actually laughably simple and straightforward. Five tips get you started on the road to preschool math success. -
6 kitchen organization tips I learned from PinterestDo your whisk and cutlery fight for space? Do you keep buying new spices because the little containers get lost in the vast jumble that is your pantry? Pinterest offers a wealth of kitchen organization tips that are creative, cheap and cute. -
5 steps to pop-up dinner party successA pop-up dinner party is only as good as the amount of preparation you put into it. That said, a truly great pop-up dinner festivity calls for the choice of a unique location your guests would not anticipate. Cathedral roofs, anyone? -
10 fun and creative things to do with fall leavesUse fall leaves in easy-to-do craft projects a preschooler or kindergartener can love. Incorporate them into artwork your teen will enjoy doing. Use them on the barbeque or rely on them to keep worms happy. Who knew fallen leaves were so versatile? -
Make your house a home in 3 easy stepsTurning your house into a home is not very difficult. Unfortunately, far too many of us are too busy to make the effort. Worse yet, some of us have bought into the ads that sell us devices to turn a house into a home. Start doing it right today. -
5 home inspiration blogs you should be readingLook to my handpicked list of home inspiration blogs to spruce up the homestead tonight. Leave behind the expensive suggestions of DIY home improvement shows and get in touch with budget-friendly blogger advice instead. -
Secrets to a successful dinner partyDinner parties used to be formal affairs with sit-down meals and place cards. Since then, the American dinner party has evolved into a far less stuffy buffet meal. Your successful dinner party can now include friends with children. -
Creative ways to remove stains after a cookout: Coffee, wine, grease, and tomatoesNow is not the time to cry over spilled sauce. Use a few creative ways to remove stains most commonly left behind by guests, and you may just find yourself in the mood for another cookout. -
Host a Labor Day BBQ like a proLabor Day is summer’s last hurrah. If you know a mean barbecue chicken recipe or two, the Labor Day BBQ might be one of your last opportunities for showing it off. -
5 activities to do before summer endsMake a list of things to do before summer ends, even if the first day of school is right around the corner. Are there things to do for the family in your neck of the woods? You bet! -
Cleaning and Winterizing Your Above-ground Swimming PoolCleaning above-ground pools is not always quick and simple. If you add winterizing the pool to the mix, there are additional considerations. Are you hip to the ins and outs of the best above-ground pool cleaning regimen? -
Dottie Sandusky still supports her husband: “I Love My Husband”The child molestation scandal, which has also destroyed the reputation of former head football coach Joe Paterno and resulted in severe sanctions leveled against the school, does not appear to shake the faith Mrs. Sandusky has in her spouse. -
Independence Day food and fireworks safety tipsGlorious summer weather, mayonnaise heating slowly in the sunshine, children holding sparklers after dark and ice-cold adult beverages for the grownups -- what could possibly go wrong? Plenty! Know the 4th of July safety tips that will keep you healthy.Also published on: -
3 Father’s Day gift ideas for outdoorsy menFather’s day gift ideas for outdoorsy men call for ingenuity, understanding of what makes these rugged men tick, and a willingness to share into the passions that drive them. So step away from the men’s outerwear rack.Also published on: -
3 easy side dishes for the Memorial Day BBQWhat better time is there to discuss all the possibilities than a leisurely backyard barbecue? Plan easy vegetable side dishes for chicken or beef, and you spend less time cooking and more time talking.
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5 can’t-fail techniques for disciplining your young childrenDo you know how to discipline children? Sure, you learned at your mother’s knee, but are her techniques truly worth repeating? While schools of thought with respect to disciplining children have evolved, there are five techniques that remain steady.
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4 Mother’s Day gifts to make and eatHave you bought your Mother’s Day gifts yet? Will Sunday morning find you elbowing shoppers out of the way in front of a picked over greeting card display or grocery store flower cooler? Are you still thinking of Mother’s Day gifts to make?
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Decorate your home for a last-minute showingThe well-planned showing is usually a bit of myth. More often than not, you receive a last-minute phone call that a realtor with clients in tow is going to show up in 10 to 15 minutes. Decorate your home quickly for the buyers.
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4 pantry organization ideas for the frugal shopperIn addition to learning how to stock a pantry, the frugal shopper will do well to also learn basic pantry organization tips. A well-stocked pantry takes the stress out of hosting an impromptu dinner guest. It prevents the proverbial food rut.
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How to teach Christian children about PurimPurim is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the deliverance of the Hebrew nation during the reign of Persian King Ahasuerus. While it is observed by the Jewish faith community, it has sunk into obscurity within Christian circles, which is a shame.
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10 secrets to spring cleaning your home in one dayOnce upon a time, spring cleaning was synonymous with an in-depth cleaning regimen that would span a week. Who has time for this? Here are 10 tips for finishing a thorough spring cleaning of your home in just 24 short little hours. Ready to start?
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5 spring cleaning games for getting preschoolers to help out around the houseCleanliness might be next to godliness, but try explaining this to your preschooler. Although still eager to please the adults, pint-sized humans around the ages of four or five have already figured out that cleaning is work. Or is it?
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3 natural homemade spring cleaning products that clean virtually everythingDo you really need to buy a different cleaning product for every home surface? Wrong! There are three homemade cleaning products that clean virtually everything. Make your spring cleaning green and inexpensive.
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The ultimate strategy for hosting a cheap Mardi Gras partyKeep a tight reign on the purse strings as you throw open the doors for a memorable Mardi Gras party. Even if you are down to just $100, you can still make it a big bash. Are you game?
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Minor building fractures? Exterior caulk to the rescue!Minor cracks on your home’s exterior are easy to fix. Put the kids down for their afternoon naps and get busy. You will be done expertly fixing your home’s exterior by the time they wake up again.
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5 keys to parenting an overly sensitive childCan a look or stern tone of voice reduce your son to tears? There are five keys to parenting an overly sensitive child -- and some phrases that you should avoid at all costs.
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How to organize photos and your kids’ artwork -- now!You know that you need to organize photos and artwork. The box you are using right now is crammed, and there is not enough room for more. So how do you organize photos and artwork? Easy!
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Team up with your teen against acneThe baby-soft skin of your elementary-school child is giving way to the oily skin of a middle-schooler. Before you know it, pimples start sprouting. This is a great opportunity for mom to work with her teen on treating the condition.
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5 effective ways to end thumb sucking for goodApproximately 80 percent of infants and children will suck their thumbs. This number goes down to 15 percent by the fourth year of life. Breaking the thumb sucking habit for good is in your child’s best interest.
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How to maintain and fix carpet tilesSince carpet tiles are secured individually, there is more damage potential. Learn how to maintain and fix carpet tiles like a pro -- perhaps even before installing your first one!
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The scoop on kitty poop cleanupDoes your house cat express displeasure by doing its business outside of the litter box? Are there unpleasant smells coming from a room’s corner? Removing feline fecal matter -- and the resulting odor -- from carpeting is not as easy as it sounds.
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Using New Year’s Eve as a teaching tool for preschoolersRather than forcing full participation to welcome the New Year, why not use the occasion for a few fun lessons? Get your child ready to go back to preschool with lessons reinforced or even introduced!
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Grieving the death of a pet during ChristmasThe death of a pet is a traumatizing event, not only for the adults in the home but also for the kids. Grieving through the holidays is particularly difficult, since cheer is the order of the day.
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Tuscan interior design tips for any budgetA mix of rustic style elements and modern interpretations of old-world furniture make Tuscan interior design surprisingly easy to introduce into your home.
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4 holiday makeup secrets for the stressed momA professional makeup artist can make anyone go from drab to glam, but what about the harried mom who just put together a holiday dinner for 50? Four tips for applying makeup have you looking glam, cool and collected.
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5 caulking tips that keep your manicure intactYou already know how to caulk, right? So why do you destroy your nail polish each time you unpack the caulk gun? Five tips for caulking inside and out protect your hands from wear and your manicure from tear.
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Installing garage door insulation saves dollars and makes senseInexpensive garage doors look pretty and are highly functional, but they frequently lack proper insulation. Installing garage door insulation is actually easy, and you can knock out this project while the kids are taking their afternoon naps.
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5 effective ways to save money with home winterizationA few simple home repairs -- done now -- can save you quite a bit of money when Jack Frost comes nipping at your nose. Winterizing your home is not very difficult – if you know where to focus your attention.
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How to decorate a French or Italian country kitchenDid you know that a country kitchen might just be a few decorative touches away? If the glass and chrome of modern kitchen décor have you squirming, why not decorate a country kitchen with tried and true elements of comfort?
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How to reupholster chair seats yourselfReupholstering chairs is as much a decision-making process as it is a hands-on project. Material costs are usually low, and the time spent on reupholstering a well-built chair is well worth keeping the durable piece of furniture in the family.
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Timeless Thanksgiving table settings: Instructions for the modern hostessThanksgiving is around the corner; you are hosting the family and in-laws, and the pressure is on. Is there an officially agreed upon way of setting a Thanksgiving feast table that will eliminate the snarky remarks of a never-satisfied great aunt? Yes!
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Taking the Thanksgiving spirit outdoors with inexpensive but creative decor ideasDo not be content to make your home’s interior a celebration of the Thanksgiving spirit, but have all decorative touches stop at the doormat. There are three easy ways to take the festive atmosphere outdoors -- without spending a lot of money.
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Maintaining 3 types of roof vents that help eliminate attic mold problemsThere is more to roof vent technology than meets the eye. If you notice a musty smell emanating from your attic – or even become aware of mold and mildew growth – odds are good that your home needs a venting overhaul.
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The busy mom’s guide to the confusing world of SpackleFixing the holes in the wall can be as simple as applying Spackle to offending gashes. Then again, there are some finer points that bear mentioning. Using the various types of Spackle for the best results is easier than you think.
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3 effective fixes that coax more use out of your old sofaThe sofa has been with you since college and you simply love the pattern. Unfortunately, life and boisterous use has turned this piece of furniture into a sadly sagging couch. Is it time for that long drive to the landfill? No!
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3 secrets to down comforter maintenance your grandma knows – do you?The down comforter shell looks worn in places. Telltale feathers fly into the air whenever you shake out the comfy blanket. Do you toss it out? Do you head for the sewing kit? Are there other ways of more effectively patching a comforter shell?
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3 eco-friendly homemade Thanksgiving decorations for your tableCould you run to the dollar store and buy a package of commercially produced Thanksgiving place cards? Sure! But why would you? Learning how to make eco-friendly Thanksgiving placemats and cards is really easy.
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Outdoor Thanksgiving decorations on a shoestring budgetFor the hostess who expects to serve up a succulent turkey dinner with all the trimmings, fall decorations are par for the course. Plenty of harvest-themed decor opportunities exist, but how do you decorate for Thanksgiving on a tight budget?
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Getting an overweight child interested in sportsIs your child pleasantly plump? Does the baby fat seem to linger way past the baby years? You know, of course, that exercise is the best antidote to fat and flab, but how do you motivate an overweight child to take interest in sports?
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Help! Your child’s friends are toxicToxic friends put down your child’s accomplishments, diminish her abilities and make subtle – or not so subtle – jokes about her appearance. Whether it is one of her other childhood friends, an activity or a good grade, they all fall victim to ridicule.
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Thanksgiving holiday survival guide for new stepmomsThe Stepfamily Foundation reveals that each day, some 1,300 new stepfamilies are formed. If you are one of those new stepmoms, you are probably eying the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday with some trepidation.
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Thanksgiving holiday survival guide for blended families: Sending your child to your exWhen “his,” “mine” and “ours” denote the children living in your home, holidays present unique challenges. Remarried ex-spouses, divorcing ex-spouses and a changing round of in-laws and family friends add stress.
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Halloween haunted houses: Is my child old enough to go inside?A haunted house is one of the many opportunities for fun and excitement this Halloween. You know that these are entertainment venues and not real haunted houses -- but does your child?
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So your child is afraid of ghosts (or monsters, witches and vampires under the bed)The fear of ghosts is common in young children. While mom sees it as one of the many irrational fears and anxiety sources that seem to plague youngsters, a child afraid of ghosts sees it as a very real problem.
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How to help kids with homework and study habitsDoes your child charm you into doing her homework for her? Helping your child with homework should focus on the development of good study habits and problem-solving skills, but parents occasionally cross the line and do the work themselves.
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10 cute Halloween costumes for girls in 2011Halloween costume ideas for girls usually follow movie trends. Halloween costumes for girls age 10 and over tend to be a bit more grown-up than most parents find palatable. Find excellent compromises in 2011 with 10 outfits that are comfy and cute.
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10 cute Halloween costumes for toddler boys in 2011Halloween costumes for boys usually follow movie trends. Halloween costumes toddler boys can wear are no exception. Which costume ideas are hot, how can you accessorize them and will they last longer than one season?
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How to organize a trunk-or-treat eventTrunk-or-treat organization takes a good bit of communication, planning and community involvement. Decorating for trunk-or-treat, dressing up participants, handing out Halloween candy to kids, and setting the hours all call for meticulous planning.
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Cheap trunk-or-treat decorating ideas for your carTrunk-or-treating is a fun, safe alternative to going door to door on Halloween. Even though Halloween candy is the highlight of the event for children, trunk-or-treat decorating ideas set the atmosphere for the event.
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Ideas for outdoor Halloween decorations on a shoestring budgetLook around the house and garage; the odds are in your favor that there are plenty of raw materials for homemade Halloween props that make excellent outdoor Halloween decorations.
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Alternatives to Halloween sweets for trick-or-treatersFigures from 2009 show that the number one treat -- making up 50 percent of sweets handed out -- was chocolate. Following at 30 percent were hard candies and lollipops. How about giving something other than candy when trick-or-treaters come by?
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Trunk-or-treat meets trick-or-treat: Which is right for you?Trunk-or-treating is a new practice that has sprung up in neighborhoods concerned about letting children go to strangers’ doors during trick-or-treating. Is it really all it’s cracked up to be? What are the drawbacks, advantages and should you go?Also published on:
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Keep your home safe from Halloween vandalismSafety on Halloween usually focuses on keeping pint-sized ghosts and goblins out of the streets. Knowing how to keep your home safe from Halloween vandalism is rarely -- if ever -- discussed.
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4 facts your teen must know about microwaving convenience foodsYour teen's budding independence now also includes meal preparation. Even middle-schoolers have access to microwaves and bring convenience foods instead of an old-fashioned sandwich lunch. Yet does your teen know how to cook it safely?
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3 unusual ways to combat preschooler potty talk at the dinner tableDoes dinner in your home remind you of a frat party? There are burping sounds (real or fake), farts (you don't even want to know) and the preschooler's big grin as he displays 'see food.' It is possible to combat potty talk.
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5 unusual seashell decor tips for any homeThe lovely beach vacation is in the rearview mirror. All you have to show for it -- in addition to a spectacular tan -- are copious shells collected from the white sand. Seashell decor makes it possible to display these natural marvels around the home.
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What to do when your preschooler blames himself for life's eventsWould you believe that your preschooler may blame himself for the onset of an illness or a lengthy hospitalization? Sweeping the feelings, fears and worries under the rug neither benefits the child nor the parent.
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Do you put your preschooler at risk of food-borne illness?There is research that might have you worry about the safety of junior's preschool lunches: Food temperatures apparently reach dangers zones rather quickly. Should you worry?
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3 creative ways to combat Facebook brain drain in middle schoolersThe latest press release by the American Psychological Association connects brain drain in middle schoolers with Facebook use. Making matters worse, experts connect narcissistic tendencies in teens with the use of the popular social media site. Oy vey!
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3 keys to an organized school yearIdentify ahead of time the most likely problem areas, how to mitigate challenges and of course how to plan for the unexpected. In addition, follow simple school organization tips that make this year a contender for a record-breaking learning experience.
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How to get your child out the door on time in the morningYou are frazzled in the morning, junior is chowing down on chips in the backseat and you screech to a halt in front of the school with seconds to spare. School organization tips for moms and students can still make this the best school year ever -- really!
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How to decorate for RamadanRamadan decorations are a great way to imbue the home with festive trappings that combine the solemn circumstance with the celebratory mood. How can you decorate your home for Ramadan today?
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Easy ways to air out the houseAir fresheners, sprays, plug-in scent heaters and candles all vie for your attention, but which method promises success? On the other hand, which method not only fails to air out the house but adds a somewhat unpleasant smell to the stink?
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5 tips for a clutter-free kitchenMy kitchen was the proverbial poster child for clutter. The top of my refrigerator had become an unsightly holding pen for odd-shaped pots and pans. Would there be hope for the space in my home that should be devoted to meal prep? Yes!
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3 stranger danger mistakes that put your child at riskDid you know that a lot of the supposedly confidence-boosting advice we give our kids might actually harm them? Worse, there are some things we moms can do to help children be less attractive to a would-be predator -- and we fall down on the job.
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Summer bicycle safety for kids in 7 stepsCycling lands approximately 300,000 youngsters in the emergency room each year. Is it possible to keep the children safe while they are riding around the neighborhood or accompanying mom on the trails? The answer is a resounding 'yes!'Also published on:
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What to do when your preteen is pushing your buttonsWhether your preteen is using put-downs, disrespect, rolling eyes or a loud voice, they all -- together or individually -- push your buttons. Just how did this child, who grew up with your loving care, suddenly get to have so much power over you?
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5 backyard entertaining secrets of budget-savvy homeownersDo you have one of the perfect backyards that simply beg to become your next party's backdrop? Simple backyard entertaining is possible and actually quite straightforward -- if you know five secrets that make it possible.
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How to stop night terrors in childrenNight terrors in children are frightening. Does your child suddenly wake up with a bloodcurdling scream? There is a good chance that your youngster is having night terrors. Now what?
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How to get free back to school suppliesGetting school supplies for free is a nice perk, if you are trying to outfit your stylish youngster. For the mom with barely enough money to keep on the lights and put food on the table, it is a necessity. Is it possible to get free school supplies? Yes!
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How to go back to school shopping for $10 or lessHas the teacher sent home a list of back to school supplies your youngster will need? Resist the temptation to head to the store right now! There is a way to buy school supplies for $10 or less.
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5 questions to ask teachers on back-to-school nightBack-to-school night is a yearly ritual. Do not assume that the youngster's educational experience will be similar to last year's time in the classroom! So what are the 5 questions to ask the teacher on back-to-school night that you really should pose?
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5 key bits of advice when sending your child to collegeWhile your head does a conga line dance -- in anticipation of the freedom an empty nest provides -- your heart sinks. Five bits of advice from parents and educators helps make the transition smooth, bearable and even something to look forward to.
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7 ways for first-time parents to combat back-to-elementary-school jittersWith the mounting shopping bags come the back-to-school jitters. Although junior is taking the idea of his new elementary school's first day of class in stride, the same cannot be said for mom. Here are 7 back-to-school jitter busters.
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How to fix wooden shutters like a proYou cannot deny that your wooden shutters need some tender loving care. Is it possible to give these structures a new lease on life? With a bit of glue, wood putty and paint -- as well as a weekend of time -- the answer is a resounding 'yes.'
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5 deck decorating ideas that turn the space from blah to wow!Even though it is located outdoors, there are so many decorative touches you could apply to your home's deck. Because it is out of sight -- and out of mind -- you most likely do not. Not sure where to start? Why, at the top, of course!
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7 steps to a clean, rejuvenated and organized wood deckThe wood deck in the backyard was a major selling point when you bought the home. Visions of lounge chairs, iced tea and backyard barbecues were dancing in your head. Fast forwarding to today, the wood deck has become the overflow storage for the garage.
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Set up safe children's email accounts for freeSafe email accounts for kids -- free of charge -- are a good option if you are ready to loosen the apron strings just a bit. Children learn how to communicate succinctly via email, send attachments and also navigate around a basic web-based email program.
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5 cures for summer brain drain and boredom"Mom, I'm bored!" If this is the battle cry you hear -- delivered with different intensities and drama -- then you know that school is out and the kids are in. Find the cures for summer brain drain and boredom all in one approach.
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Symptoms of heat rash, sunburn, and sun poisoning in childrenSunburn itch, sun poisoning and heat rashes are some of the downsides that summer brings. Even if the children are conscientious about applying sunscreen, there is a chance that they may get into some trouble. Do you know what to look for?
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L.A.'s summer fashion trendsDo you remember last year's influx of beads? From red carpet fashions down to skimpy Muscle Beach bikinis -- all seemed to sport strings of beads. L.A.'s summer fashion trends for 2011 see a departure from this theme. What is hot this year?Also published on:
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What to wear for a date on Venice BeachA date on Los Angeles' Westside is always a special occasion. Venice Beach has become a popular locale for platonic walks, first dates and recurring Saturday afternoon meet-ups. Dressing for a date here is a bit of a mixed bag.
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5 facts Mom should know about swimmer's earSymptoms of swimmer's ear are annoying and painful. What should mom do? Treatments for swimmer's ear vary, but there are some good rules of thumb that mom can follow.
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Mom's guide to choosing children's haircutsAttractive boys' hair styles and girls' cuts now underscore personality as well as facial shapes. How should mom choose just the right kids' do -- after the functional toddler hair cuts?
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How to recognize and treat head lice in childrenIn children, head lice are passed around about as often as a fruit cake makes the rounds during the holidays: 12 million times each year, according to the AAP. Are your children affected?
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A mom's guide to pubertyYou still have her baby picture on the fridge. Your Facebook avatar is a picture of his first fishing trip -- at age five. Even so, your tween is racing headlong into puberty. What issues should you tackle? Which should you leave alone?
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4 worst Father's Day gifts for single dadsFather's Day honors the dads who are doing the heavy lifting: single, married, widowed or otherwise. So why is it that he may still receive oddball and downright bad gifts?
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4 key features of an organized pantryFour tips for organizing your pantry make quick work of the odds, ends, outdated foods and crusty leftover cereals that populate the shelves. What does it take to turn food cupboard chaos into harmonious grocery storage?
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Organizing a closet to make it a usable office spaceWhether it is the hallway closet, bedroom walk-in or utility space under the stairs, a closet is an excellent location for a small home office. What does it take to organize a closet in such a manner that it becomes a usable, self-contained office space?
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Choosing sunscreen for your child - 5 facts you must knowWith so many different sunscreen brands and product lines on the market, it is difficult to discern the good from the so-so. Choosing sunscreen for your child does not have to be difficult -- if you know what to look for.
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How to decorate a nursery on a shoestring budgetThere are the hand-me-downs and the items that have been in the family for generations. Mixing it all together and coming out with a lovely, uncluttered nursery takes a bit of doing. Is it possible? Yes indeed!
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10 questions to ask before signing up your child at a preschoolDid you know that there are 10 questions that you absolutely must ask before signing on the dotted line? In some cases, the answers can make the difference between choosing one preschool over another.
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How to choose a great preschoolHow would you know a good preschool from one that is best passed on? There are some very obvious -- and some not so obvious -- telltale signs.
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Stopping first grader backtalk in 5 stepsAn impudent response from a child has the power to pretty much set the tone for a long drive to school. Stopping backtalk is not easy, but there are five steps that may prove successful for your family.
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5 steps to apartment decorating on the cheapWhile the homeowner may freely dip a brush into a can of purple paint, the renter is restricted from adding cow-splotches to an apartment ceiling. Is it still possible to make your apartment your own just with a few inexpensive decorating touches?
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Mini-blind maintenance 101Unlike the rest of the furniture, sun exposure frequently "bakes on" dust on window blinds. It is this latter phenomenon that makes mini blind maintenance a task, which plenty of homeowners love to avoid.
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Dusting real and artificial plants for good healthThere is a lot more to dusting off plants -- real or artificial -- than meets the eye. For example, did you know that killing dust mites in the process is a must?
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How to name your baby for future successThere is something about a pregnant woman that brings out the baby naming genie in family members and friends. Does the name make the gender of the baby clear? Should it? And what about extraordinary spellings?
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Interior painting supplies checklistWith the change in the seasons comes the homeowner's overwhelming desire to change the home's interior. What affects more change than a fresh coat of paint?
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How to smoothly transition a child to middle schoolWhile the transition from kindergarten to first grade was toughest on mom, the move from elementary to middle school is most daunting on the child.
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Choosing the right vitamin supplements for childrenAlthough I do not like to be the bearer of bad news, there is a good chance that your picky toddler will not develop into a health-conscious preschooler with a penchant for broccoli. Vitamin supplements can pick up the slack.
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Should parents pay for college?Is paying for college a parental responsibility? You may be surprised to learn that parents paying for college is a bit of a double-edged sword.
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Repaint your front door for springSince the front door frequently doubles as the home's focal point, should you make yours stand out or blend in? It all depends on your sense of style.
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Summer reading ideas for boysYour daughter is a bookworm; your son's books show no signs of cracking spines. Sure, he gets passing grades in reading, but you worry about the big third grade divide. Has he already floundered?
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The 5 worst gifts for Mother's Day everI'm a mom; therefore, I have a well-developed sense of when to keep my mouth shut. Bad Mother's Day gifts are no exception, and while the occasional less-than-perfect Mother's Day gifts do slip through, there are some stinkers that shouldn't.
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Teaching your middle schooler how to blogMiddle schoolers are now growing up in a tech-savvy society where they are almost expected to begin shaping their online personas at an early age. How can mom help out?
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Nine social media strategies for moms of teensIt is not unusual for moms and teens to interact on the same social networks. Unfortunately, this time of interconnectivity leads to some embarrassing moments.
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Helping kids develop good study habitsYou love helping your child with their homework. Even so, the next time you get the nonchalant after-dinner request for help with a science fair project -- due tomorrow -- that has not yet even been started, you swear you'll run for the hills.
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Teaching your preschooler to communicate wellIt is an open secret that toddlers and preschoolers are notorious for their sometimes angry behavior. At the root of temper tantrums is an inability to put into words what the child is feeling.
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Four clothes dryer troubleshooting tips that can save you a service callLearning four basic dryer troubleshooting tips makes it possible to keep the appliance chugging along -- without getting the professional appliance repairman to come out and leave a sizable bill.
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A mom's guide to suspected teen drug abuseYou're putting away the clean socks and there it is: the little baggy with green clippings. What do you do? Do you put it back? Do you rush over to the high school where junior is currently sitting in class?Also published on:
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Teaching your child school bus safety in five stepsThe American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that each year 23.5 million children use organized school transportation. When taking into account 457,000 school buses currently in use, this translates into 5.8 billion one-way trips.
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A mom's guide to car safety seatsRear-facing or forward-facing? In a life that offers choices at every juncture -- do you want fries with that? -- some options carry the weight of a life or death decision. The American Academy of Pediatrics has released new car seat information.
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Decorating with Flokati RugsFlokati (or Flocky, as my mother was known to call it) is a relic of the 1970s. Back in the day when shag was in, the long yarn fibers meshed beautifully with avocado green appliances and burnt orange wallpaper. Well, they're back!Also published on:
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Repairing Berber Carpets like a ProFluffy's claws, junior's rolling backpack and anything else that might hook into a loop. Rips and pulled threads are common. Not surprisingly, repairing Berber carpet is a must to maintain its gorgeous look.Also published on:
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Improving Your Healthy HomeSo what should you change in your healthy home? If the home was built prior to 1978, you already know about having a lead test done before sanding paint, but what about other surfaces?Also published on:
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Separation Anxiety in Grade SchoolAs the child gets older, he is more willing to stay with another caregiver and the goodbyes get easier. If this has been the course you have been on, a renewed bout of separation anxiety might be throwing you for a loop.Also published on:
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Leaving a Child Home AloneIs 11 the right age to leave your child home alone? Not necessarily. A number of litmus tests and legal considerations help moms -- who are thinking of leaving a child home alone for the first time -- make a sound decision.Also published on:
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Good Oral Hygiene for Children: Tips and TricksIf tooth brushing and flossing is a struggle in your home at night (or in the morning), there are some tips and tricks that might just tip the battle in your favor.Also published on:
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5 Fun and Successful Bedtime Routines for ToddlersThe sufficient length and quality of toddler sleep is a sore spot with plenty of moms whose children seem to have a nocturnal streak. Bedtime routines have the power to help the young child transition from playtime to sleep time.Also published on:
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Eating Disorders in ChildrenMinorities, boys and all socioeconomic backgrounds now contribute to childhood eating disorders. Does your son or daughter show signs of eating problems?Also published on:
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5 Real World Bedwetting SolutionsA look at real world bedwetting solutions shows that the incident, which clinicians refer to as enuresis, is actually quite common. What should mom know that not even her BFF has figured out?Also published on:
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3 Mardi Gras Games for the Whole FamilyWhether you pick a weekend day just to enjoy a family carnival or invite friends with children to come for a Shrove Tuesday fete, games, food and companionship are sure to make this a memorable event for all attendees.Also published on:
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Positive Discipline: Time Out, Kids and How Much is Too Much?Positive discipline is difficult to get right and there is a fine line between being effective and having it fail miserably. To tell the truth, putting children into time out is more difficult than spanking them.Also published on:
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4 Tips for Cheap St. Patrick's Day Party Decorating and HostingThere is more to St. Patrick's Day than shamrocks, pots of gold, rainbows and leprechauns. St. Patrick's Day costumes make for a fun themed adult party.Also published on:
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Preventing Ice Dams on RoofsFreezing temperatures, snowfall and a comparatively warmer attic provide all the ingredients for the formation of ice dams on roofs.Also published on:
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School Lunch Ideas for PreteensToo cool for the mom-packed lunch and Scooby Doo lunch bag, but not sufficiently nutrition-smart to make healthy food choices, preteens need a little help with their school lunches.Also published on:
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How to Get My Baby to Sleep Without Soothies, Pacifiers or BinkiesGetting rid of a pacifier pits the adults in the home against a pint-sized youngster with a screech and howl that would make a banshee blush with envy. Call them soothies, pacifiers or binkies; they are the little tools that make for a peaceful night.Also published on:
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5 Steps to a Sultry BedroomHow can the lady of the house transform a so-so master bedroom in a sultry den -- all in one weekend? Easy -- with five quick and simple steps.Also published on:
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Why and How to Get Rid of DustHave the dust bunnies become so big that by rights they should have their own names? Learning how to get rid of dust may actually be a matter of life and death in your home.Also published on:
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Does Your Child Threaten Violence?What should mom do when the kids discuss other children, violence and worse? When is it a serious problem and when is it just talk?Also published on:
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4 Home Office Organizing Products You Should Know AboutHome office organization is the bane of existence for the small business owner. Whether it is the small home office tucked into a spacious closet or the converted second bedroom, organization tips and products are a must.Also published on:
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6 Steps that Fight Childhood Obesity Without Putting Your Kids on a DietIf you have noticed that your youngsters require clothing marketed for '˜husky' boys rather than the athletic set, you might be tempted to put the kids on a diet. Tread lightly!Also published on:
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Does Your Preschooler Still Use a Security Blanket?Are worn fleece blankets a sign that you are making a mistake in your parenting? Is the security blanket just another little quirk junior will outgrow?Also published on:
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Decorating with Homemade Valentine's Day CenterpiecesBudget-friendly Valentine's Day centerpieces set the mood for a romantic dinner for two or a party including friends and family members.Also published on:
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7 Fun Activities for Kids on Valentine's DayValentine's Day is traditionally an adult day of expressing love for dating or marriage partners. Why not also get the youngsters involved?Also published on:
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3 Quick and Easy Super Bowl Sunday Activities for KidsLeave it to the moms to come up with activities for kids that are sure to make the Super Bowl party a little less adult and a lot more fun.Also published on:
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The Mom's Guide to 5 Emotional Teenage Acne SolutionsTeen acne is so common that is has become proverbial, but this does not negate the need for parental help in overcoming the fear of being unattractive, without a date for the prom or left out of a circle of friends with miraculously (still) clear skin.Also published on:
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Creating an Eco-Friendly Bedroom that Goes from Stressed to GreenClutter is not conducive to a healthy bedroom and peaceful sleep. There are five simple steps that you can take today to create a healthful atmosphere and an eco-friendly oasis to boot.Also published on:
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5 Steps to an Organized Self-Storage UnitIf you are wondering whether it is time to perhaps downsize the storage unit -- and with it the cost of monthly storage -- you are not alone. Follow a simple five-step approach to organizing the storage and your life.Also published on:
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4 Tips for Ending a Preschool Potty MouthWhat happens when junior proudly utters a particularly heinous four-letter word over dinner? Stopping a preschool potty mouth is not easy, but there are four tips that make the process at least doable.Also published on:
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Busy Spinning Your Wheels? Plan Family Activities!When mom and dad suddenly realize that they are largely chauffeuring children to copious outings and activities, reality sets in: the family is too busy. So how can you get into the driver's seat and help the family out of its rut?Also published on:
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Why Won't My Child Sleep like Other Kids?If you are wondering whether you are rearing a nocturnal creature because of a child's erratic sleep patterns, you are not alone.Also published on:
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7 Refrigerator Cleaning Tips and Tricks for the Reluctant Domestic GoddessRefrigerator cleaning is not a fun task. In fact, it most likely ranks right up there with toilet bowl scrubbing and hallway closet organizing. How should you get started in the first place?Also published on:
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How to Organize Picture Frames like a ProIf your child has sunburn from the frequent flashing of your camera, the odds are good that you are a new parent. Fast forward five to 10 years, and the question arises what to do with the multitude of must-see moments in the life of the child.Also published on:
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4 Steps to Improving Your Home's Heating SafetyWould you believe that 73 percent of deaths related to home heating fires are the fault of space heater (ab)use? The news release by the National Fire Protection Association paints a grim picture of the dangers that space heaters may hold.Also published on:
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When Good Intentions Go Up in Smoke: Dealing with Teen SmokingThe Centers for Disease Control report that in 2005 some 23 percent of high school kids reported smoking cigarettes; in 2001, the number sat at almost 22 percent. The highest risk groups are Hispanic and Caucasian teens.Also published on:
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Getting Kids to Do Chores Without WhiningHow do you get your children to cooperate? Is it possible to assign the kids chores and actually see them jump into action? The answer is a resounding "yes!"Also published on:
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Guide to Finding and Making Closet SpaceCloset designers make a mint with their walk-in creations that feature a number of different storage solutions and a hefty price tag to boot. For the rest of us, building a closet as a DIY project is frequently as fiscally challenging as it is necessary.Also published on:
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Getting Your Child to Understand MathWhat is it that turns off pupils with respect to mathematics and how can parents run interference successfully? Are there parenting tips for the mom who might have some problems with math herself? Yes!Also published on:
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Lifting Stains from Fabrics: Get out the Steamer or Call the Carpet Cleaning Service?The advertisement I got in the mail from one of the professional outfits says that his cleaning method for fabrics trumps mine. Who is right?Also published on:
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4 Wood Care Tips Everyone Should KnowIs caring for wood very different than for other bits and pieces of furniture? Indeed, there are four must-know wood care tips everyone should know (and follow)!Also published on:
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Teaching Outdoor Safety and Independence: Wilderness Survival for Your KidsDo not be too quick to turn away from lessons on survival training for kids; the parenting tips you follow today may save the child's life next summer!Also published on:
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Polishing Brass: A Guide for the Domestic Goddess in TrainingIs it possible to remove even long-term buildup without spending hours on the project - or ruining the brass fixtures in the long run? The answer is a resounding "yes" (if you know the right tricks)!Also published on:
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Holiday Games for the Whole FamilyThere is nothing more boring for children than to be relegated to one room (frequently the converted garage) to play with their snot-nosed cousins; they want to play with mom and dad.Also published on:
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Parenting Tips for Families Who Don't Celebrate ChristmasCommon sense and a bit of parental finesse as well as foresight can take the sting out of being "different." So how does one parent a child through the holiday season that seems to start earlier with each passing year?Also published on:
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Not Your Average Gift Exchange: Make Holiday Gift-giving Fun and Exciting!Just because you have "always" done it "like this" doesn't mean you have to continue the same type of gift exchange until Jesus walks down Wilshire. Instead, shake things up.Also published on:
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Holiday Pictures Without the Photo Studio Meltdown: Parenting Tips for Great Kids' Photo SessionsIs there a way to head off the pre-photo session meltdown? I am here to tell you that yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and there are great kids' photos on the horizon!Also published on:
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Celebrating the Holidays After the Death of a Loved OneIf you want to go ahead and get in the swing of celebrating the holidays in a new way, there are a number of tips and tricks that make the celebration bearable and perhaps even enjoyable.Also published on:
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Help! My Toddler Bites!Toddlers' biting one another, mom and dad or the furniture is part of their coping mechanism. Even so, what's the mom of a biting toddler to do?Also published on:
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The Reluctant Organizer's Guide to a Neat and Tidy Laundry ClosetAlthough you declare time and again that this would be the very last washing day that you would have to clean and organize the laundry closet before doing laundry, the clutter still accumulates. What's the reluctant organizer to do? Easy!Also published on:
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Setting Up a Spiffy Thanksgiving Kids' Table that is Fun and FunctionalIf your Thanksgiving nightmares seem to center more on the child in your life and less about the moistness of the turkey meat, it is time to talk turkey about a kids' table.Also published on:
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Tips for Hosting Your In-Laws for Thanksgiving DinnerThanksgiving is a nail biter for at least one member of the newlywed couple. Generally the nervous person is the one who will play host to the other's family.Also published on:
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Travel Essentials Checklist for Women: Must-have Items You Should Never Leave WithoutThere are five travel essentials that are easy to forget and should be on any travel checklist. Conversely, there are five items you can do without (trust me!). Learn from my mistakes and prepare for your next vacation with aplomb.Also published on:
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When Family Travel Packing Resembles the Exodus: How to Pack for Kids in 5 Easy StepsA simple blueprint of five steps makes it possible to pack kids' belongings for plane-, cruise- and car travel. Are you ready to bid a fond farewell to the extra luggage and ripping bags?Also published on:
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Nipping the Temper Tantrum in the Bud with Your Dignity Intact: A Mom's Guide to the Noisiest Child Behavior ProblemToddler temper tantrums are feared and seem to occur (almost like clockwork) when mom or dad is in a hurry, at the grocery store or standing in line at the bank. Take heart; there is help for even the worst temper tantrums!Also published on:
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Wielding the Fastest Screwdriver in the West: 3 Simple Home Repairs You Can Do YourselfThere are a number of simple home repairs that require little more than a bit of time, some finesse and a steady hand. Better yet, these repairs cost pennies to complete and might even help avert the need for a costly call to the local handyman.Also published on:
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Four Simple Home Repairs Any Handywoman Can DoThere are those little odds and ends around the house that need fixing. Sure, you could call a handyman, but this would eat up way too much money from the family budget. What is the do-it-yourself-minded handywoman to do?Also published on:
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Cleaning and Organizing a Home with Office Space: 5 Steps to Making it HappenIs your home office in the spare bedroom, the hallway closet or on the dining room table? Do papers and files timeshare the sofa with a laptop and some fluffy cushions? It's time to clean up and organize!Also published on:
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5 Fun Kids Activities with Green Cleaning SuppliesIf my children are any indication, they have an aversion to cleaning supplies in the same way that vampires seek to avoid garlic. This turned around when I devised five fun kids' activities that just so happened to involve green cleaning supplies.Also published on:
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Transitioning to an Eco-friendly Home: 5 Greening Opportunities to Take when You're Not MarthaThe whole process of going green, becoming eco-friendly and exercising that environmental consciousness muscle has me worrying. How does a SoCal gal who visits the health food store for entertainment (not for buying) turn it around?Also published on:
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Room-by-Room Cleaning Solutions for the Domestic Goddess in TrainingRoom-by-room housecleaning schedules makes it possible to manage even a larger home without spending an entire day devoted to the task. Easy cleaning tips focus on convenience, upkeep and a manageable setup. Are you game?Also published on:
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5 Rules for Fishing With KidsFishing vacations are a blast. Taking the kids fishing is an excellent means of bonding and introducing the next generation to a lifelong hobby. Avoid ending fishing trips with tears; follow five simple steps that ensure enjoyment of the activity.Also published on:
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How to Get Out of the 'Friend Zone' and into a Romantic RelationshipWhen pals want to be more than friends, one or both need solid relationship advice that teaches how to get out of the 'friend zone' and enter a romantic relationship. Learn how to let romantic love bud rather than a great friendship fall into ruin.Also published on:
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How to Mix and Match Metallics for Fall 2009Titanium jewelry is now a mainstream trend and if you are wondering how to incorporate gold, silver, or copper metallics into your fashion accessories of shoes, belts, bags and more, read on for some must-know tips.Also published on: