These days, it seems like the holiday spirit travels in a plane from far away and comes wrapped in an enormous amount of unnecessary plastic. In the middle of finding the perfect gift and trying to hunt down deals, it can be hard … read more

You often hear people refer to completing their “due diligence” when hiring a contractor for any type of construction project. Officially, due diligence (also known as due care) is the effort made by an ordinarily prudent or reasonable party to avoid harm to … read more

“Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” That’s a favorite holiday story — but what is the holiday scene in your home? No one stirring and everyone getting a good-night sleep? … read more

Does the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets leave you feeling ho-hum? With just the turn of a screwdriver, you can give your cabinetry a whole new appearance simply by updating the hardware. It is important to understand the basics of selecting … read more

DIY is so popular, there is a television network dedicated to it — and many, many other shows, books and stores that encourage and support it. It’s a trend that will only continue to grow, but there are a few things to know … read more

Holidays can be stressful especially if you’re hosting a party. If you’re planning on entertaining this season, take a few tips from Rosemarie Burns and Linda Reed, authors of “Which Fork Do I Use? Confident and Comfortable Dining.” Here’s some of their advice … read more

Is the prospect of a fancy Christmas dinner giving you cold feet? Four forks, three knives, five glasses — where do you begin? And what about that little salt dish with no spoon? To answer those questions and many more, Rosemarie Burns and … read more

Although much is made about the traditional family gatherings that abound this time of year, some of your most anticipated events of the season may actually revolve around your closest friends. With everyone contributing a dish, friend-focused potluck celebrations are the perfect time … read more

A holiday-ready home is filled with small touches that celebrate the season. Extend a warm greeting to your guests with a faux fur wreath that dresses up the front door, such as this design from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. … read more