(ARA) – Twinkling lights, fragrant wreaths and freshly baked cookies help set the stage, but holiday guests truly feel at home when you provide a warm, cozy environment. As you prepare yourself and your home for colder temperatures, look for energy-efficient products that offer energy savings blended with tasteful designs. By making smart decisions, you [...]

(ARA) – We all fondly remember it – young Macaulay Culkin defending his home from rough and tough burglars Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern with a fake dinner party, booby traps and even a hot iron. But while “Home Alone” is a fun holiday movie to watch, it’s also a good reminder of the dark [...]

(ARA) – The holiday season is a time for fun, family, and – let’s not forget – food. Between work functions, family get-togethers and endless holiday soirees, the sheer amount of cheesy appetizers, buttery entrees and sugar-laden desserts can be overwhelming – especially when you’re trying to maintain or lose weight. Don’t let the holidays [...]

(ARA) – Like the song says, little things mean a lot, especially during the holidays. A greeting card with a heartfelt, handwritten note, a tin of homemade cookies – these simple gestures speak of the holiday spirit. During the holidays, the little things you do – or don’t do – can also mean a lot [...]

(ARA) – From baking cookies with loved ones to caroling through the neighborhood or celebrating with family and friends, fond memories of holiday traditions abound. Each year, scents, sights and sounds promote the season’s spirit – continuing long-standing traditions and creating new memories. Here are some ideas for stimulating your senses and evoking the warmth [...]

Every year I look forward to the new Christmas movie releases.  This year the big one seems to be Arthur Christmas.  It’s the animated movie from Sony Pictures about the family that makes Christmas happen – Santa’s family, that is.  I really like the looks of the movie from the trailer.  I think this would [...]

One Magic Christmas is my all time favorite Christmas movie.  It is about the story of a lady who has forgotten the meaning of Christmas and about the angel who must make her remember. Yes, it is a little sad at times, but overall it’s a very sweet and touching movie.  It stars Mary Steenburgen [...]

(NC)—As a stylist, I see first-hand how the holidays can be both joyous and overwhelming. With so many things to do, getting the house ready for entertaining can seem like an impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be that way. No matter what you’re planning, here are the three things I recommend to get [...]

(ARA) – Flat screen TVs are sure to be a popular holiday gift this year, as they’ve been for the past several holiday seasons. Last year, flat screen prices tumbled before the holiday shopping season, and retailers are likely to offer deals again this year. If a flat screen is on your wish list, or [...]

(ARA) – ‘Tis the season for gathering and celebrating. If you’re hosting a party or get together with family or friends, get your home party-ready in no time with these simple tips that will be a breeze to tackle. Make a lasting first impression – the entry way of your home will be heavily trafficked [...]