There is a certain temptation that comes with seeing a Black Friday sale advertised. You spot something you’ve been considering buying for months, notice a big discount and start wondering whether you should take advantage of it now or wait a little longer. The problem is that waiting doesn’t always mean saving money. Some products…
Whether you live in Canada or the United States, winter can be hard on your outdoor deck. Snow, freezing rain, ice, rain and fluctuating temperatures can all take a toll on wood and composite decking. While it may be tempting to forget about your backyard once the colder weather arrives, a little seasonal maintenance can…
Imagine settling in for the evening when someone suddenly kicks your front door with enough force to make you think someone is trying to break into your home. Your heart starts racing as you wonder who is outside and whether your family is safe. You have no idea whether it is an attempted break-in, someone…
We’ve all done it one time or another. Life gets busy, the phone rings, maybe your kids need something, dinner needs making, and somewhere between everything else, you forget to take your birth control pill. Maybe you remember a few hours later, or perhaps you don’t realize you’ve missed it until the following morning. Whatever…
Winter can be particularly hard on a garden. Freezing temperatures, fluctuating weather, heavy snowfall, icy winds, and road salt can all affect the health of trees, shrubs, perennials, and garden soil. While many plants naturally enter dormancy during the colder months, that doesn’t mean they are completely protected from winter damage. For Canadian homeowners, preparing…
Dating violence is an issue many parents may not think about until their child begins dating. However, unhealthy and abusive relationships can begin much earlier than some adults realize. According to the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS), approximately one in three young people in a national sample of Grade 9 and 10 students had experienced dating…
Home insurance is one of those household expenses that is easy to take for granted until the renewal notice arrives and the premium has increased. Whether you own a modest starter home, a newer property or an older house that has been in your family for years, the cost of insuring it can vary considerably….
Butcher-block countertops can bring warmth and natural beauty to a kitchen, but keeping them looking their best requires a little more attention than some other countertop materials. Unlike quartz or laminate, wood responds to moisture, temperature changes and everyday wear. Without proper care, the surface can become dry, stained or scratched. The good news is…
