Hire a Chimney Sweep or Do It Myself

After seeing so many do-it-yourself projects on the DIY network, many homeowners believe that sweeping a chimney is easy, and attempt to do the work themselves to save money. That way of thinking usually ends in disaster.

This is one of those annual maintenance items that is best left to the professional.

Winter Is Coming—Are You Ready to Bundle Up?
Five Items to Help You Stay Warm and Chic
The weather outside will soon be frightful—but that doesn't mean your look
has to be. Image consultant Marla Tomazin overviews five items that will
keep you warm and stylish in the frostiest of temperatures.

5 ways to cut your holiday spending                                                                                                                                        word count: 438

by Rachel Cruze

It’s the Christmas season—my favorite time of year!

And even though Christmas is the season of giving, it can also be a time when it’s really tempting to overspend. To keep from falling into that trap, you need to have a plan. So here are few ways to keep your spending in check this Christmas.

Does Turkey "Gobble Up" Your Happiness?
Six (Meat-Free) Ways to Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Believe it or not, you may be able to help combat the holiday blues by
ditching the bird and serving up extra veggies instead. Mary R. Wendt, MD, explains
why eating turkey may impact your energy and mood—and why a meat-free
Thanksgiving is a lot more satisfying than you might think.

Blend Indulgence with Nutrition

Balanced treats can help you enjoy the holiday and wellness seasons

Hazelnut Chocolate Energy Bars

(Family Features) With family gatherings and New Year’s resolutions, this is the time of year where the holiday and wellness seasons find themselves on a collision course. The key to fully enjoying both seasons is finding treats that balance great taste with nutritional value.

Make Your Holiday Party Shine

Vanilla-Orange Cheesecake with Cranberry Swirl and Gingersnap Crust

(Family Features) A table filled with delicious food and dazzling decor surrounded by family and friends is the perfect recipe for a holiday dinner to remember. Once you’ve figured out your menu, be sure to leave time to plan the table decor.

Instead of fighting crowds at the store, head to the kitchen and whip up Pinterest-worthy treats and crafts. Whether you’re gifting a gracious host or just want a few extra presents on hand for unexpected holiday guests, flavorful and aromatic kitchen creations are a delicious way to show you care this holiday season.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces gingerbread cookies, about 8 (3 1/2-inch long) cookies
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon McCormick Ground Ginger

Preparation