Expert advice for starting a small business - even in this economy

Is it easier to climb Mount Everest than to start a small business in America today? More than 65 percent of Americans think so, according to a recent survey. Yet 70 percent also believe small businesses are more likely to turn around the economy than the federal government, reveals the survey by Wakefield Research conducted on behalf of e-commerce platform Alibaba.com.

Think outside the album for your digital photos

Photos have always been important to people - a standard answer to the "what would you take out of a burning house" question is always "photographs." Even so, photos seem to be even more important today - the younger generations take photos almost constantly to update their blogs and social networking sites, and digital photography makes it easier than ever for people of all ages to take great pictures.

Why it's so important to keep your car clean

How often do you clean your car? A lot of people run their vehicle through the car wash every month or two, more often in the winter. But how often do you vacuum the inside of your car?

How to host a family reunion potluck

A family reunion can be one of your extended family's most memorable shared experiences, providing new family stories and deepening bonds for years to come. If you are in the coordinator's seat, it can also be a daunting amount of work. With a bit of advice from the experts on planning, delegation and, the centerpiece of any family gathering, food and drink, it can be a bit easier.

Five keys to smooth sales and bargain buys in a slow housing market

Not everyone who relocates has the luxury of doing it when school is out and the yard looks beautiful. If you're forced to sell your house and/or buy a new one outside peak season, you might have to work a little harder and think creatively.

Create 'curb appeal' with easy home projects

Whether you're selling your home and want the best price, or you just want to be the envy of the neighborhood, creating "curb appeal" can be very rewarding. And you're confident you know what constitutes great curb appeal - siding, windows, doors and a lawn that are all in good shape. But is that all you have to think about when it comes to curb appeal?

Why it's never too early to start preparing for Christmas

If you stick your fingers in your ears at the mention of Christmas anytime before November, you might just be missing out. You don't need to be scouting for spruce trees or organizing your ornaments, but keeping Christmas in mind a number of months before it arrives can be helpful for your schedule, your stress levels and your bank account.

Secrets every bride can use to make her wedding unique

Every bride-to-be dreams of putting her unique stamp on her wedding day. Blending her chosen wedding colors into many of the occasion's elements is just the first step toward a creative and beautiful event. Brides in gorgeous gowns, bridesmaids and groomsmen decked out in the wedding party's colors and striking flowers are the perfect accompaniment to the colorful landscape of the summer and fall wedding seasons.

How to make your house spectacularly haunted for one day

Most days, you probably want visitors to feel welcome and secure in your home. But one day a year, it's fun to scare the dickens out of them - so make the most of Halloween and all the good-natured frights that come along with the spookiest of holidays.

Parents: Tips for giving kids a DIY after-school activity center at home

Many American families may still be tightening their belts, as the economy continues its slow climb out of recession. If your family has decided to save money by foregoing traditional after-school programs, you can bring the experience home.