Lifestyle & Trends - Family Living

Fight summer 'brain drain' with online summer schools for K-12th grades

Cash-strapped school districts across the country are cutting summer school programs in record numbers. In fact, more than a third of administrators polled in a recent American Association of School Administrators survey said they are considering eliminating summer school for the 2010-11 school year. The good news for parents is that the recent boom in online K-12 education means many high-quality, engaging online summer school programs are now available to students. Read More

Create lasting memories with a personal and visual memorial

From the Egyptian pyramids to the Vietnam Veterans Wall in Washington, D.C., the emotional importance of memorialization transcends history and cultures, and it satisfies a basic human need to remember and to be remembered. Read More

Why the recession can be a good thing for those in debt

It's been a tough few years for most Americans, facing a constricting national - and world - economy, job losses, pay cuts and a tough employment market. It can certainly be difficult to see the good in those circumstances, but helpful things can come out of these challenging times. You don't need to be a Pollyanna, but taking a practical look at how the recession affects your personal finances can show that there are some positives. Read More

What are drivers really doing behind the wheel?

The last time you were stuck in traffic, what kinds of things did you observe? Perhaps you saw the woman in the lane next to yours applying make-up; the man in the car in front of yours shaving; or in your rearview mirror you witnessed a mother screaming at the children bouncing around in the back seat. When traffic started moving again, you may have shook your head and said to yourself, "There's an accident waiting to happen!" Unfortunately, you were probably right. Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road. Read More

Tips for throwing a great baby shower - on a budget

There aren't many parties that are more exciting - or more necessary - than a baby shower. While you're celebrating the new life that will be coming into the world, you're also helping to prepare a new mom for the arrival of her baby. While brides and grooms might already have silverware and toasters, most new parents don't have car seats and strollers just lying around the house, so it's important to help equip them with everything they'll need. Read More

No matter where you are in life, consider life insurance

Planning for the unexpected is a necessary part of life. Whether you are just beginning your career or are enjoying retirement, life insurance is something you should consider. Read More

Six signs a senior needs living assistance

By many estimates, two-thirds of older Americans will eventually become dependent on others to complete everyday tasks. But realizing that you need help or convincing someone else that they do is often more difficult than arranging long-term care. Look for these signs to help determine your elderly loved one's needs and the best ways to meet them. Read More

Family budgets stay on track with new and convenient coupon sources

Collecting coupons remains to be one of the best ways for families to save on everyday expenses - from cleaning supplies and health and beauty items to food and paper products. Read More

Twin Cities travel is even better with cheap flights

One of the best places to visit in the summer and take your family for some great fun is actually two cities bumping shoulders in the northern part of the United States. Known as the Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn., have an abundance of Minnesota charm, physical activities, historical sights, scenic beauty and the biggest shopping mecca of the world to keep any person entertained for a week, or even just a long weekend. Read More

Back-to-school safety: Follow these tips to keep your child safe and healthy

The back-to-school season can be both an exciting and anxious time. As a parent, you can teach your child a few lessons, and take a few precautions yourself, to put your mind at ease when children leave home to go back to the classroom. Read More

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