Do-It-Yourself Home Cold Remedies by @coldeeze

Do-It-Yourself Home Cold Remedies

Brought to you by: Cold-EEZE Cold Remedy

1. Stuffy nose? Use steam for relief.
   You don’t need a fancy humidifier to ease congestion (though it can be convenient!). Slowly breathing in steam from a pot of boiling water can work wonders! Just make sure to be very careful — you don’t want to burn your nose!
   
2. Make it spicy.Incorporate lots of cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, cloves, pepper and ginger into your sick-day diet. Spices are natural ways to help boost your immune system and fight off viruses and diseases. Some other ingredients to include? Garlic, honey and coconut oil. Check out some more natural cold medicine.
   
3. Try chicken noodle soup.
   A nice hot bowl of chicken noodle soup might be just what you need to fight off that virus. It’s a delicious home remedy that’s medically backed to help ease cold symptoms. Check out some of our Cold-EEZE Cold Remedy-approved tasty recipes by visiting us on Pinterest, and make sure to include plenty of veggies!
   
4. Make your own nasal spray.
   It’s easy and takes a matter of minutes! Simply mix 3 teaspoons of iodide-free salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda and then add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to 8 ounces of warm boiled water to create your own nasal spray solution. Use a bulb syringe to gently squirt the mixture into each of your nostrils, while holding the other one closed, and letting them drain. This will help clear nasal congestion as well as remove virus particles and bacteria!
   
5. And of course, drink plenty of fluids.
   It’s so important to stay hydrated, especially when you’re sick. By drinking plenty of fluids regularly, you can help break up congestion and ease a sore throat. Some great options include water, herbal teas, natural juices (no sugar!) and ginger ale. Also be sure to check out some of our favorite healthy hydration recipes.

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ENERGY STAR tip: Let computers sleep #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR

Are you ready for your next opportunity to #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR? Here's this week’s challenge: use the power management settings on your home or work computer. You could save up to $90 a year AND help protect the climate.

If you’re not sure how, ENERGY STAR is offering this useful how-to guide.

Just click on the operating system that you use, and follow the instructions. Your computer will enter a low-power mode automatically after a period of inactivity and “awaken” in seconds when you wiggle your mouse or touch your keyboard.

This could be the easiest $90 you ever saved. Find out more about ENERGY STAR at www.energystar.gov, and join the conversation online with #Do1ThingENERGYSTAR.



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Tips & Tools for Secure Holiday Shopping Off- and On-line & Lock Review

Tis the season for online shopping, and with online sales expected to increase 13-15% this holiday season, it’s important to ensure online holiday experiences are safe ones. The holiday season should be fun and festive, and the joy of the season can be lost quickly if people interact with an un-safe website, lose important receipts or blow their budgets.

Master Lock and Mario Armstrong, Digital Lifestyle Expert™ have provided tips and tools to help navigate the holiday safety, securely and with as little stress as possible.

1. Make smart online purchases. The convenience of online holiday shopping can quickly be derailed if you become a victim of identity theft due to sharing your credit card and shipping data with a non-secure site. Before entering any personal or financial information, check to make sure the website is secure.
2. Click with caution. Consumers may be bombarded with link-heavy holiday emails this season sending well wishes or advertising hot gift items and sales. Consumers are advised to click links with caution to avoid a malware-spreading site.
3. Set and track your budget. Avoid post-holiday regret or debt by setting a realistic budget and tracking your purchases to ensure you adhere to it. A variety of apps and websites can help you with your budget tracking goals, such as Mint.com or the Master Lock Vault.
4. Keep digital receipts. Easily file away receipts from your holiday shopping in one place to cross-reference purchase dates and totals with your bank and credit card billing statements to check for any unfamiliar charges, or to facilitate easy returns after the holidays.
5. Don't leave a digital trail to your gift purchases. If you are using a computer that other family members use and don't want them to see what sites you've visited, enable your browser's private browsing feature when researching and buying gifts.

About the Product
Master Lock 2120D computer lock is the must have for the traveling professional, office employee, or busy student who needs to safeguard their professional or personal equipment and its' valuable contents. This lock is strong, easy to use, convenient to transport, and a universal fit for any electronic device with a built in lock slot including laptop and desktop computers, external hard drives, and scanners. Protect your devices and your data, anywhere.

Product Features

• Security on the go, ideal for campus, office, travel or home use
• Secure any laptop, notebook, monitor or projector with a built in lock slot
• Ultra portable self coiling cable extends from 3 inches to 6 feet
• Trusted dial locking mechanism in an easy to spin and easy to use configuration
• 10,000 combination possibilities for ultimate personalization

My Take on the Product
I loved how easy this lock was to set up and use. It connected easily to my laptop and I had no problems at all with the lock staying secure. This gave me peace of mind when I was out in public that I could leave my computer out without it walking away with someone else. The other thing that was great about this lock was the personalization that it affords you when it comes to the lock itself. You can make the password what you like or change it every now and again to make sure that no one gets to know your password! If you are looking for a great lock for your laptop, this is a great one in my perspective!


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A Halloween Party How-To in Three Easy Steps!

Halloween is just around the corner and while there’s fun to be had on the streets, a Halloween house party can be a hauntingly good time! ShopRunner, a members-only online shopping service that offers fast, FREE 2-day shipping and special discounts to consumers, has provided three easy steps to take the fright out of planning this year’s bash. From how to avoid crowded stores and long lines to party cuisine that’s so tasty it’s scary, ShopRunner makes planning the ultimate Halloween party as easy as 1-2-3!

·         Step 1: Haunting Halloween Décor – Whether you’re aiming to trick your guests or treat them, ShopRunner’s retail partners have plenty of décor to help you haunt your house – all available at the click of a mouse. Turn your front yard into a spooky graveyard, light up the night with Halloween lanterns, or shake it with thisdancing broom.

·         Step 2: Ghoulish Getup – As host of the year’s best Halloween party, you’ll need a costume that will keep heads turning all night long. Perfect for vamping it up as a sexy sailor orpirate wench, causing a fright as a spooky mummy or leprechaun, or grabbing laughs as aman-eating shark or plug & socket, ShopRunner offers easy access to costumes for everyone. From full costumes to wigs and accessories, they’ll make sure you’re prepped and primed for the witching hour.

·         Step 3: Quickly Cater – For a grown-up alternative to Halloween candy, try fresh-baked treats from David’s Cookies – they’re even sweeter when baked for you and delivered to your door with no shipping charge. For something as savory as it is simple, Domino’s Pizza is ready and waiting to feed your house full of hungry guests.

With these three easy steps you’ll be set to party in no time. Incorporate ShopRunner’s fast, free shipping from retailers including CostumeExpress.com, BuyCostumes.com, Candy.com, David’s Cookies, Organize.com, Toys“R”Us, Drugstore.com and Domino’s, and the only thing you’ll have to worry about is making sure the guests arrive on time!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Halloween Trick or Treat Tips From ShopRunner & BuyCostumes.com

Let spooky ghosts and evil witches be the only thing you have to worry about this Halloween season! Check out  13 helpful trick or treat tips from BuyCostumes.com, the #1 online Halloween costume and accessory retailer for kids, adults and pets, and ShopRunner, a new online shopping service that offers unlimited,FREE two-day shipping with no minimum order size and free shipping on returns for members.

Turn 13 into a lucky number by following these expert tips:

1. For colder climates, begin by purchasing a costume that’s at least one size larger to allow for insulating layers underneath.
2. Add reflective tape to costumes and candy buckets.
3. Use safety pins to shorten long costumes and avoid tripping.
4. Sew your child’s name and phone number inside costume in case she or he gets lost.
5. Ask older kids who trick-or-treat by themselves to plan a route and share it with a grown-up. Set a return time.
6. Instruct kids not to eat treats until a grown-up has inspected them first. Candy that’s already been opened should be tossed. For little kids, trade small, hard candy for soft treats, as these could be a choking hazard.
7. Remove masks when crossing the street, and cross only at corners.
8. Don’t walk between parked cars.
9. Carry a flashlight. If possible, also bring along a colored light for better night vision.
10. Be careful near candles and jack-o’-lanterns.
11. Only visit homes that have an outside light on.
12. Accept treats at the door, and don’t go inside a stranger’s home.
13. Avoid petting animals without asking first.

BuyCostumes.com and ShopRunner have teamed up to help parents save time and money this Halloweenwith the largest selection of costumes around (over 10,000 and counting), plus lots of cool accessories and party supplies that can all be shipped FAST and FREE with a ShopRunner membership. 

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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How to make the most of Disney?

In honor of the happiest-place-on-earth’s 40^th anniversary on October 1, the folks at social travel site Gogobot put together this list of the keys to the kingdom: Top Insider Tips to Making the Most of Disney.

Here are the top 5 insider tips, from Gogobot users:

1.       For the older family: Keys to the Kingdom Tour
You have to be at least 16-years-old for this tour. The tour lasts about 4 hours or so and is about $70 on top of park admission. Sure, you can see most of the stuff covered on this tour by watching specials on the Travel Channel. However, if you're a Disney freak like I am, there's simply no comparison to seeing it in person. My favorite part - the "underworld." There's so much that goes on behind, er, under the scenes that you have to see it to believe it!


2.       For adults: Drink around the world
The World Showcase area of Epcot, as you may know, features pavilions from different countries around the world. These pavilions have kiosks that feature local adult beverages and, sometimes, small snacks. You can literally spend an entire day drinking around the world at Epcot. Simply start at one end and begin exploring the food & beverage of countries that most people only dream of going to. You’re sure to have a blast. Cheers!


3.       For the romantic: IllumiNations
This fireworks spectacular takes place every night at closing. It takes place on the lake in the center of the World Showcase. While there are places to see it all around the lake, there are some places that are downright horrible. The better places start to fill up early, so plan accordingly. The China and Germany pavilions recently had changes to the areas overlooking the lake, and make for great viewing.


4.       For kids: Jedi Training Academy
The World Showcase area of Epcot, as you may know, features pavilions from different countries around the world. These pavilions have kiosks that feature local adult beverages and, sometimes, small snacks. You can literally spend an entire day drinking around the world at Epcot. Simply start at one end and begin exploring the food & beverage of countries that most people only dream of going to. You’re sure to have a blast. Cheers!


5.       For the aspiring artists: Magic of Disney Animation
While the short movie on how animation is made is well done, the best part is what follows. There is a place to meet characters. Usually the latest or upcoming movie is featured here. Also, Fantasia Mickey is featured here. There are areas to try your hand at coloring a scene, or adding sounds to an animated scene. The cool part is the area where you can learn to draw a Disney character. Often it is one of the Fab Five. The very cool part is that you can keep your drawing. The really very cool part is this is free. And you can come back several times. Perfect for all ages.

Check out even more advice (and images, reviews, ratings, and more) from some Gogobot users here, here, or here.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Child Passenger Safety Week/Baby Safety Month - Tips

September is Baby Safety Month, and September 18-24 is specifically National Child Passenger Safety Week. With more than 80% of car seats installed incorrectly, it’s clear that parents need to learn more about keeping their most precious cargo safe at all times, especially while in the car.

Chicco’s KeyFit 30 is the #1-rated infant car seat – and is among the easiest to install.  In recognition of National Child Passenger Safety Week, Chicco is happy to provide you and your readers with a few helpful reminders from its resident car seat safety expert, Julie Prom (bio below).   After all, everyone needs a friendly reminder from time to time – and what better reason to remind parents about car seat safety than now?

Car Seat Safety Tips to Keep in Mind from Julie Prom, car seat safety expert:

• Buckle up everyone, every time, every trip!  In a crash or emergency braking, an unbuckled passenger can be thrown into other passengers causing serious injury.  Also, ensure there are no heavy, loose objects in the vehicle that can be thrown around in a crash.
• Keep children in a rear-facing safety seat until at least 2 years old.  A recent study showed that children under age 2 are 75 percent less likely to die or be severely injured in a crash if they are riding rear-facing.  Be sure to use a safety seat designed for the size and weight of your child.
• Never put a rear-facing safety seat in front of an active air bag.
• All children under at least 13 should ride in the back seat.  The back seat is nearly 40 percent safer than the front seat.
• Never add any product (including toys and car seat covers or liners) or make any changes to a car safety seat or booster that is not approved by the manufacturer of the seat.  Add-on products can interfere with the crash performance of the seat.  Beware!  Many manufacturers of add-on products will state they have tested them—ONLY use products approved by the car safety seat manufacturer!  The safety seat manufacturer is the only one that can confirm the test results of its product.
• Never put an infant-only seat on top of a shopping cart.  This makes the shopping cart top heavy.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Academy of Pediatrics warn against this practice due to numerous reported injuries from carts tipping over and/or babies falling out.
• Finally, ALWAYS read and follow both the car safety seat instructions AND the vehicle owners’ manual when using and installing your child’s seat!

About Julie Prom

Julie Prom has over 25 years of professional experience in the cause of child safety.

She is an injury prevention and traffic safety consultant, and nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor for the Standardized Child Passenger Safety Training Program, an initiative run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Safe Kids USA.

Julie has provided consulting services to many local, state and national organizations, including the NHTSA, National Safety Council, DaimlerChrysler, Safe Ride News and several child restraint manufacturers. She is also a consultant for Chicco USA.

Prior to her consulting work, Julie spent eight years as Minnesota's Child Passenger Safety Program Administrator. There, she wrote child passenger safety brochures and training manuals.

Julie has conducted interviews with local print and broadcast media, and national outlets such as Reader's Digest and MSNBC.

Julie has four children and six grandchildren. Her children range from 21-32 years old. Her grandchildren range from 9 months to 11 years old. With all these children in her life, she has over 32 years first-hand experience with at least one child safety seat in her family vehicle — and she is still counting.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Tips to Enjoy the Outdoor Activities this Summer!

REI (a national outdoor gear and clothing retailer), is partnering to host the National Wildlife Federation’s 7^th annual Great American Backyard Campout®. The Great American Backyard Campout, encourages families to open the door and sleep under the stars in their backyards or a local park. Over 180,000 families participated in REI’s Family Adventure programs last year, so this is a great way to jump in on the fun this summer.

 

In honor of the Great American Backyard Campout, REI is sharing a helpful list of camping tips by its' very own Green Vests (outdoor activity experts).

CAMPING TIPS:

Before an Overnight Trip:

• Practice camping at home: If your kids are outdoor newbies, pitch a tent in the backyard or even inside your home. Let them hang out in it and sleep in it so they become comfortable with a new sleeping environment.
• Take a trial run: Before your overnighter, try a family day outing at a close-to-home park. Spend a half-day or so at a lakeshore or park and see how your kids react to extended outdoor excursions.
• Take notes: Write down reminders for future trips: "Pack more sunscreen." "Bring long pants." "Leave bongos home."

Preparing for a Trip:

• Be enthusiastic: Why should kids get fired-up about an outdoor adventure if you're not?
• Involve your kids: Make trip planning a family affair. Ask kids for ideas of possible things to do or see at your destination. Take their input seriously.
• Kids as packers: Give children the responsibility to pack their own gear at home (using a list you've created). A parent should double-check a child's packing job before leaving home.
• Keeping kids (somewhat) organized: Have your kids pack every personal item in a duffel bag and encourage them to always return those items to that duffel. ("Mom, where's my paddleball set?" "Look in your duffel, dear.") Each child's duffel should be a different color for easy identification.
• Favorite toys: Let kids bring some of their favorite playthings so the campsite doesn't feel entirely foreign to them. Need ideas for new toys? View our suggestions later in this article.
• Friends are valuable: It can be fun for kids to camp with another family that has kids. Your kids may get bored with adults after a while. With playmates, they could be happily occupied for days.
• Bring bikes: Bikes are handy in a campground, so consider bringing a few along. If it's a long way from your campsite to the beach or play area, it's faster (and more fun) to use a bike instead of walking or firing up your vehicle. Bikes keep kids entertained, too.
• Check fire restrictions: Planning on a campfire? Before you leave home, make some calls to determine if campfires are permitted at your chosen campground. If not, make sure everyone in the family knows in advance. There's no bigger disappointment to a kid who has packed all the s'more fixings than to discover that a burn ban is in effect.

At the Campground:

• Exude a positive vibe: Family-camping rule No. 1: Be prepared to cope with inconvenience. Everything is in a different place. The bathroom is no longer down the hall, it's 6 campsites down the path. As an adult, you must lead by example with an upbeat, can-do attitude.
• Organize: Establish fixed locations for important items. "The forks and spoons are in the blue tub." "Flashlights are in the green stuff sack."
• Then stay organized: Remind everyone to always return items to their established locations so others can find them. If you're especially industrious, create a reference list of where-to-find-it locations. Tape it some place obvious.
• Keep everyone oriented: Help kids memorize the number of your campsite or point out landmarks ("We're 4 sites from the amphitheater") to help them remember its location.
• Make kids feel important: Kids like to feel important and involved. Assign them some meaningful camp chores, such as gathering firewood or collecting water from the pump. Recognize their contributions with praise or a treat (or both).
• Be safe: Make sure your kids always carry a whistle (teach them to blow it if they become separated from you) and have easy access to a flashlight or headlamp. Attach a lanyard to both the whistle and light and tie them to one of the child's belt loops.
• Wildlife: Ask park rangers about wildlife activity in the area you are visiting. As the adult, you need to take the lead and understand any precautions necessary (such as proper food storage or how to react during an up-close encounter) for safely coexisting with wildlife. Educate your children about the importance of not feeding wild animals (it negatively alters their food-gathering patterns) and treating wildlife with respect and caution so everyone stays safe.

When Outdoors, Be Outdoors:

• Make the most of nature: Look for wildlife. Check out bugs. Examine rocks. Identify birds, flowers, clouds, constellations. Lead kids on a rock scramble. Show interest in things that interest them. Bring a field guide to help you identify and learn about the things they find.
• Be active, stay loose: Try to keep your kids active without following a regimented schedule. If they're entertained by skipping rocks on the water, give them time to perfect the multiple-skip fling.
• Attend ranger talks: If you're camping at a state or national park, attend the ranger's evening talk. Ask staff if the park offers a junior-naturalist program or other kid-focused activities.
• Geocaching: A GPS-guided treasure hunt engages kids physically and mentally. Check our link to geocaching to see if any caches are hidden in the area you'll be visiting.
• Share time together: "Hey, mom, remember when we saw that deer?" Great memories are one of the great payoffs of a camping trip. Come home with the sort of stories that can only be created outdoors. Shakespeare must have been camping when he wrote, "One touch of nature makes the whole world kin."

Fun Stuff You Can Bring:

• Paddleball set: At one of our photo shoots, the kids accompanying our crew couldn't put this game down.
• Marshallow launcher: Traditionally you toast them. Now you can shoot them at one other, too. Imagine: The common marshmallow, transformed into a summertime snowball.
• Animal-shaped flashlights: Leapin' lizards! Sharks, orcas and toucans, too.
• Kits, discs and flying toys: If it flies, it's probably a heap of fun. Our faves include lighted discs and Djubi balls.
• Make ice cream: Have some low-tech fun (with delicious results) with a boot-around plastic ball from Camper's Dream.
• Stream Machine: Camping in warm weather? If you can tolerate a little flying water, this is a kid's ultimate way to cool off.
• The glowing, multicolor flying disc: Whoa . . . it's psychedelic, man. Illuminated with LEDs, this disc changes colors while you play.
• Foot bags: So simple, so entertaining.
• Educational games: What? You haven't played "Pass the Pigs" or "Why Knot?" Well, why not?

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions
 
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Travelocity Names Summer's Top 10 Family Destinations

With Memorial Day weekend and the unofficial start to summer fast approaching, Travelocity travel experts dug into the website’s summer booking data to discover where families will take their summer vacations in 2011. Overwhelmingly, families will travel to beach destinations in the U.S. and the Caribbean.

There are great  family travel deals still available for the top 10 destinations and families still looking to get away should check out the Window Seat Blog for tips, advice and ideas.

1.    Orlando: Orlando is, not surprisingly, the number-one family destination for summer 2011. With theme parks galore and some of the summer’s most competitive room rates, fun and value reign supreme on Orlando vacations.

2.    Cancun: A destination once known for spring break debauchery, Cancun has reinvented itself as a family-friendly destination. It comes in as the number-one destination for families traveling internationally, and two on the overall list.

3.    Honolulu: Four destinations in Hawaii made their way into the top ten summer destinations for families, but of those, Honolulu comes out on top. Direct flights to Honolulu are available from many U.S. cities, making getting to world-famous Waikiki Beach a breeze.

4.    Maui: Famous as a honeymoon destination, Maui vacations are also a favorite for families, especially during the summer months. Turns out kids and couples alike love the beautiful beaches, where the sand color ranges from white to black to red.

5.    Kauai: Beautiful coastline and secluded beaches are a given on Hawaii vacations, but Kauai is the perfect island choice for active families and nature lovers.

6.    Bahamas: Cheap flights to Nassau make getting to the Bahamas both easy and affordable. Though not technically part of the Caribbean, expect the same beautiful white-sand beaches, hotels in every price range and flowing rum punch.

7.    Kona: Found on the island of Hawaii (or, The Big Island), Kona is an excellent destination from which to explore. From snow-capped mountains (yes, there’s snow in Hawaii!) to rainforests to the world’s most active volcano, this island is also the state’s most diverse.

8.    Puerto Vallarta: Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s second-most-popular destination for families this summer. Mexico vacation packages are always a great value and this beach destination on the country’s west coast is no exception.

9.    Turks & Caicos: Talk about an island that just keeps getting more and more popular – Turks & Caicos climbs up the list of top-booked destinations each year. Caribbean vacations are always popular for families and this island is proving to be a top pick.

10.  Dominican Republic: Rounding out the top 10 most popular summer destinations for families is the D.R. and it’s no wonder. There are many direct flights to Dominican Republic every day, so towing the kiddies and all their stuff is no problem. Plus, Dominican Republic resorts come in every shape, size and price range.

About Travelocity Global

Travelocity® is committed to being the traveler's champion – before, during and after the trip – and provides the most comprehensive and proactive guarantee in the industry (http://www.travelocity.com/guarantee). This customer-driven focus, backed by 24/7 live phone support, competitive prices and powerful shopping technology has made Travelocity one of the largest travel companies in the world. Travelocity also owns and operates: Travelocity Business® for corporate travel; igougo.com, a leading online travel community; lastminute.com, a leader in European online travel; and ZUJI, a leader in Asia-Pacific online travel. Travelocity is owned by Sabre Holdings Corporation, a world leader in travel marketing and distribution.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Kids and Technology

Once upon a time, a set of building blocks or a click 'n view toy was all you needed to entertain a child. However, as technology continues to play an integral role in our day-to-day lives, our kids are becoming more interested in -- and savvy with -- electronics and gadgets. While it's remarkable that technologies have become so intuitive that even a child can operate them, it is important to consider how home electronic systems may need to be adapted.

A CEDIA professional can provide a series of tips that can help families work together to understand the best technologies for their lifestyle and provide examples of how the systems can be designed to respond differently to each user. For example, CEDIA members can create a system that will allow a child watch television during designated hours but may restrict certain channels and be set to a time limit, based on a password that is required to activate the remote control. Another home electronics system might text parents when their children disarm the house alarm after school.

To learn more, you can log onto CEDIA.net, where you can find a CEDIA professional in their area.

Here are some additional perspective on integrated home systems that are family-friendly from Joe Calise, President of Sights - N - Sounds in Seaford, NY and CEDIA member:

Do your kids use your home system mostly for entertainment, or for other benefits/functions as well?

Mostly entertainment. However, many kids shows provide education, as well.  We prefer a more hands on approach to education, but certainly don't mind them watching educational programming if they are going to watch TV.

What are some elements of your home system or your clients' systems that are beneficial to both parents and kids?

Having a system that a 3-year-old can operate gives them more freedom to learn. It also enables them to be more self-sufficient when they need or want something. 

Have you adapted your system designs to account for the fact that kids today are becoming more and more adept at technology?

I believe you have to.  When it comes times to show how a system works, usually the first thing asked is for the kids to watch so they can operate the system!  After grabbing a pen and notepad, they are usually very surprised that they did not even need to take notes. With the kids, when technology does not do what they expect it to do, it gives us insight on what we need to focus on for our next project.

Additional thoughts/perspective:

With technology becoming more converged, and simplified, we as an industry need to do more to prove our value, and how we can make systems customized to their own environments.  This is a challenging task, but it's important to adapt to the times.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

 

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AT&T and T-Mobile Merger: Combat Possible Rising Wireless Prices

With news of a possible merger between two of the nation's largest wireless carriers and one of the most significant deals since the financial crisis, AT&T and T-Mobile's proposed $39 billion deal have many speculating: will this lead to price increases for cell phone plans and other wireless services?

Although this merger is a winning deal for the two companies involved, financial experts and consumer advocates suggest that there's a potential loser in the outcome of the decision - the consumer.

Don't let the uncertain future of unlimited minute and data plans keep you up at night. Prepare for the possible increase in wireless service prices with these 8 savvy saving tips.

1. Extend Your Family

Family plans are great for any group of reasonably trustworthy people, including roommates, friends and extended family. Members of your plan don't need to be related to receive these money saving rates, but make sure everyone on your plan is trustworthy enough to pay their share of the monthly bill.

2. Switch to Pay-As-You-Go Phones

The New Millennium Research Council says that 25 million Americans could save money by switching to a prepaid phone. Prepaid service companies like Boost Mobile, NET10 and Virgin are more accessible than ever and even major national companies are getting in on the act, crafting reasonable prepaid plans for those who want the reliability of a nationwide network. Some carriers have watered-down versions of other plans, such as the text-friendly T-Mobile offering of $15 per month for unlimited text (but no voice). Others opt for a credit model, where you pay per usage. Rates differ by company, but most charge between 5 and 10 cents per minute or text.

3. Purchase Unlocked Phones

Consider purchasing an "unlocked" phone when switching networks, signing up for a new plan or simply updating your phone. The SIM card (Subscriber Identification Module) isn't associated with one specific provider, therefore these free-agent phones are compatible with any network, allowing you to use them for the service you prefer. Amazon and eBay are just a few of the electronic stores you can purchase an unlocked phone at a very reasonable price.

4. Use Coupon Codes

You can buy unlocked phones online with coupons for Best Buy and TigerDirect from a site like CouponSherpa.com. Don't forget to use a coupon when buying accessories to compliment your new phone.

5. Make the Trade

If you are just looking for an upgrade and your phone still works, check GreenPhone or CellTradeUSA to switch for another model. The trade will cost you, but often you will discover a better deal than purchasing elsewhere. Also, consider CraigsList to purchase from a private individual. But, buyer beware, as electronics purchased from this website come with no guarantees.

6. Download Text for FREE Apps

Texting can cost upwards of $10 per month. Cut your provider out of the picture if you have a smartphone. Download free texting apps like Textfree With Voice for iPhone and chompSMS for Android which also include free voice minutes too. Even though you'll only be able to connect to others who have the app, the savings make it worth convincing your family and friends to try out this new method.

7. Take Advantage of Employer Discounts

Switch to the provider your employer uses if you're not voraciously committed to your current provider. Almost every major carrier offers a business discount that can be applied to personal phones. The only thing required is a valid e-mail address or other form of ID from your employer. From major corporations to school districts, plenty of outfits are part of these programs.

8. Let Go of the Extras & Go Basic

Service providers have started heaping on extraneous fees. Almost any desirable phone these days now requires a data plan in addition to voice, text and other services. The key is leaving all else behind and selecting only what you'll use.
 
 
All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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The Best Time to Go Guide for 70 Destinations

Travel, they say, is broadening. Unfortunately, the recent rise of gas prices may force some travelers to put plans on hold. Happily, it's possible to getaway this spring without blowing your budget, if you know the best places to go. The Go Frugal Blog on FreeShipping.org compiled the high and low seasons for 70 of the most popular travel destinations worldwide to help you discover the best deals.

Before you plan your next journey, check out the The Best Time To Go Guide For 70 Destinations. Here's a glimpse of three exciting travel destinations to consider.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Costly: June to August
Less Expensive: April and May
Summer means hot weather and humid, rainy conditions. The weather is more comfortable in April and May than during the height of summer. The humidity isn't as prevalent, and the summer rains have dissipated. Best of all, as the crowds have not yet arrived, you'll enjoy uncrowded resorts, low season rates and an excellent chance of upgrades.

Ireland
Costly: July and August
Less Expensive: April to June and September to October
The Emerald Isle is known for its rain, so you can expect a certain amount of damp at any time of the year. The weather is likely to be at least as good in May, June and September as in the summer months and hotels are less busy. Spring flowers are at their best in April and May, and October offers a frugal fan's choice of free arts festivals.

Portland, Oregon
Costly: Mid-May to October
Less Expensive: January to March
The Pacific Northwest sees its fair share of rain, but the most popular time to visit is during the summer when braniacs take a break and outdoor festivals are everywhere. Winter is the least expensive time, with fewer crowds and more availability. Second cheapest are the spring and fall shoulder seasons, when the weather is cooler and schools are in session.

Once you've decided on your vacation destination, check out our Best Time To Buy Guide for 101 Products and Services which was first to make its debut in the series of Go Frugal consumer savings guides. Save even more on travel necessities with free shipping codes to merchants like TravelSmith and L.L.Bean.

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The Go Frugal Blog featured on FreeShipping.org is a collection of money saving tips and frugal living ideas. FreeShipping.org is the largest resource on the Internet linking shoppers to free-shipping deals offered by more than 4,000 online merchants.

Consumer savings expert, Andrea Woroch, is available for in-studio, satellite or skype interviews to talk about "The Best Time To Go Guide". As a broadcast and print media source, Andrea has appeared on ABC News NOW, NBC's Today Show, FOX & Friends, MSNBC and has been quoted by SmartMoney, Kiplinger Personal Finance and many more. 


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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5 tips for making spring cleaning a family affair

It’s spring—the perfect time to de-clutter and organize your home. For parents, the challenge is to freshen up the house while also staying on top of everyday responsibilities like work, carpool and dinner. Involving your kids is a great way to get it all done without losing your mind.

Kati Chevaux, editor at Cozi.com, offers 5 tips to turn common spring cleaning chores into a family affair:

1. Refrigerator Clean-Out

o   What you do: Remove all food to do a complete wipe down of the fridge shelves and drawers.

o   What the kids do: Find the expiration date on labels and sort out expired items and fuzzy foods.

2. Junk Drawer Makeover

o   What you do: Empty the drawer, clean, and replace items that belong.

o   What the kids do: Put toys and belongings in the right place, test the charge of stray batteries, throw away garbage, collect change and keep it!

3. Toy Reduction

o   What the kids do: Gather all random toys and trinkets around the house. Sort toys into two piles: 1. What I do play with 2. What I don’t play with.

o   What you do: When the kids aren’t home, recycle or throw away all the toys in pile No. 2 and half the toys in pile No. 1.

4. Wiping and Dusting

o   What you do: Prepare a spray bottle of mild/natural cleaner; dust shelves containing fragile items.

o   What the kids do: Use the spray bottle and washcloth to wipe windowsills, dust the top edge of the baseboards, wipe walls and door frames.

5. Paper Clutter Control

o   What you do: Remove unnecessary files, old bills, magazines, and phonebooks.

o   What the kids do: Shred sensitive papers, carry paper trash to recycling bin.

More about Kati Chevaux

Kati Chevaux is the queen of helping families get things done through household organizing tips, meal planning and nutrition advice and LOTS OF LISTS! Kati is the editor at Cozi.com (http://blogs.cozi.com/), and has been published in USA Weekend Magazine and in Sam’s Club Source Magazine. She is also the former nutrition editor at PreSchoolRock.com, and has contributed to a variety of regional parenting magazines including NJ Suburban and ParentMap.

About Cozi
Cozi is a free web and mobile service that simplifies busy family life. With Cozi, families have the tools to manage schedules and activities with an online calendar, track grocery lists, shopping lists and to do lists, organize household chores, and share family moments with relatives and friends—all with one solution. Families can access Cozi from any computer at home or work, and can get their grocery list, shopping list, to do list, schedule and messages on any mobile phone. Located in Seattle, Wash., Cozi was founded by veterans of Microsoft, Expedia and Amazon with a vision for creating technology tuned to the family. Cozi has over 3 million registered family members, and is available for free at http://www.cozi.com/.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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Be a Star This Year with an "OLIVIA" Themed Birthday

Nothing is more exciting to a child than her birthday party; presents, friends, treats, games and more presents! For moms however, the stress can pile on when it comes to the pressures of throwing a memorable party. 

Now, Nick Jr.’s Olivia makes planning birthday parties easier than ever! What child wouldn’t want to be surrounded by their favorite 6 ¾ little girl on their birthday? With Olivia’s Customizable Party Packs you can throw your child the birthday party she wants, without the headaches and “bank aches!” From the Basic Party Pack, which includes invitations, dinner plates, cups, utensils, napkins and more, to the Deluxe Party Pack, which includes balloons, centerpieces, confetti and candles, all you’ll have to worry about are some finishing touches, which Nick Jr. takes care of for you! Go to NickJr.com and find fun, easy and free recipes, crafts, decorations and more, such as the ones listed here:

·         OLIVIA Red Velvet Cupcakes

·         OLIVIA Straw Toppers

·         OLIVIA Photo Frame

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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FLOODING and MOLD PREVENTION TIPS

With tri-state area experiencing widespread flooding and local rivers predicted to rise through the weekend, please consider an interview offering  “SEVEN HOME FLOOD AND MOLD PREVENTION TIPS ,” with Mike Dunphy, Editor in Chief  and Publisher of Holmesmagazine.

Dunphy has over 20+ years experience as a professional contractor and recently launched the shelter publication Holmes: The Magazine To Make It Right, with Mike Holmes, America’s Most Trusted Contractor and star of “Holmes on Homes” and “Holmes Inspection,” as seen on HGTV.

IMMEDIATE MUSTS:

1. Unplug all electrical appliances before the water enters to prevent electrical fires.
2.  When using a sump pump, make sure no debris surrounds it that can get sucked in, clog it, and prevent the pump from keeping up with the rising water.
3. Ensure the pump hose removing the flood water is discharging that water at least 16 feet away from the house – otherwise that water will just come right back into the home.
4. During flood cleanup, pull back or remove any item that can retain moisture like carpeting to discourage mold growth.
5. Turn on the heat in your basement to dry out any excess moisture to help prevent mold.

TO PREVENT FUTURE FLOODING:

1. Ensure your home’s lawn slopes AWAY from the house!  Ground sloping towards the home channels water right into it. If this is an issue, have a contractor or landscaper re-grade the  property.
2. Check your foundation annually to ensure that moisture is not penetrating the house --  and repair it BEFORE an emergency situation arises.

HOLMES: The Magazine to Make it Right - HOLMES: The Magazine to Make it Right is the recently launched shelter publication by Mike Holmes, the star of “Holmes on Homes” as seen on HGTV. Distributed by Time Warner Retail, HOLMES: The Magazine to Make it Right is designed to serve as a manual for every homeowner, man or woman. Covering an array of home renovation related topics, this publication strives to “make it better” by “building it right the first time.” The first issue hit stands in the US in November 2010 and will soon be introduced in the United Kingdom and Australia. (www.holmesmagazine.com)

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
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