Spring car shopping? Take care of financing first (BPT) - Auto shows dotting the country paired with rising temperatures leave many people longing for a new car or truck. But purchasing a new vehicle is a complex process – one that doesn’t start with finding the right car, but with making sure your finances are in order. It’s important to plan ahead so there are no sur...
Hiring pros for spring cleaning tasks? What to look for and what it should cost (BPT) - Some traditional spring cleaning tasks are easily accomplished on your own, like clearing out clutter or rearranging storage areas. Other important tasks such as cleaning air ducts or your carpets may require professional assistance – and that’s where things can get confusing. When you hire a professional to ha...
Consumers, be aware: Know the facts when it comes to oil changes (BPT) - With more than 300 million vehicles on the road today, motor oil is the lifeblood of any engine and can help protect and prolong its life, whether you’re driving a compact car, pickup truck or SUV. However, not just any motor oil will ensure the healthy life of an engine and, unfortunately, discounted deals for ...
Healthy foods and creative recipes provide vitamin D when sunshine is scarce (BPT) - When days are short and sunshine is scarce, it’s only natural to feel a little out of sorts. The sun is the body’s chief source of vitamin D, and for many Americans, clouds and cold temperatures can lead to deficiencies. Fortunately, there are other sources that provide this important vitamin – some of which com...
Thyroid awareness [Infographic] Located in the base of the neck, the thyroid produces hormones that travel to all the body’s tissues, influencing the function of virtually every organ. Of the estimated 30 million Americans with a thyroid disorder, an estimated 50 percent are undiagnosed.
Three ways to give your home's curb appeal a boost (BPT) - Homeowners only get one chance to make a first impression. That’s one chance to impress potential buyers, family, friends and neighbors with the first thing they see: your home’s exterior. From simple upgrades to meticulous landscaping projects and replacing an outdated roof, there are dozens of options to enha...
Popular remodeling trends for spring home improvement (BPT) - It’s time to think spring which means fresh home updates. Spring home improvement projects will help you update your home, add comfort and save more of your hard-earned paycheck. “You can save time, money and stress by planning ahead,” says Kathy Krafka Harkema, Pella Windows and Doors expert. “Seek out expert ...
Four reasons you shouldn't think twice about buying a hybrid There was a time when buying a hybrid constituted a small leap of faith. Despite all of the potential benefits, you were still buying into a new technology with an unproven track record. Now that hybrids have demonstrated their staying power, many of the original hesitations about buying one no longer exist. If you’ve always admired the potential benefits of owning a hybrid, but haven’t been able to get past some of the perceived drawbacks, it’s time to put your fears to rest. Here are four...
Foot care tips to keep you moving while on vacation (BPT) - Decongestant, check. Sunscreen, check. Antacids, check. So you’re going on vacation and your bag is well-stocked with remedies for every illness that could possibly derail your good time – from sunburn to an upset stomach. While you’re taking steps to preserve your good health on vacation, don’t overlook the bod...
How to eat your heart out and lower your heart disease risk Every day your heart makes enough energy to drive a truck 20 miles . To do this, your heart needs a little help from you. Just like a well-running automobile, your heart needs fuel to keep it chugging along. The good news is the fuel your heart needs isn’t necessarily boring or tasteless. The key is to select foods that taste great and reduce major heart disease risk factors. You can lower your risk simply by fueling your heart with foods that keep your blood pressure and cholesterol at ...
Outdoor gear that performs year-round (BPT) - Rugged camping gear is no longer just for adventurers and niche outdoor sports. High-tech or activity-specific outdoor products are gaining popularity because they also come in handy every day and around the house. “As it turns out, the durability and dependability of gear needed on remote hikes or climbs has m...
Five environmentally friendly ways to keep your lawn looking great (BPT) - Maintaining the perfect lawn is easier than you think and with the right tools, you can be both efficient with your yard work and eco-conscious. If it’s lush green turf that you’re after, but you also care about your carbon footprint, there are a few tools and practices that can help you have it both ways. Many...
