I've been sticking to a double-whammy of a New Year's resolution: to eat healthy as well as on a budget. Every day starts with a wholesome, homemade breakfast — whether it's one that's on-the-go for weekdays, or a more involved (but still relaxed!) weekend brunch. My latest Saturday a.m. staple is this unusual omelet, filled with cumin-laced black beans and crumbled feta. It's everything one Read more

Straightforward budgets aren't always the best solution for people trying to get a handle on their money — the inflexible nature of budgeting can be a frustrating turn-off. Just because you're not one for budgets doesn't mean there isn't hope for following a plan that will get your finances on track. A spending plan is a better solution than a traditional budget for those who want a less rigid Read more

Since the International Lighting and Accessories Market is taking place this week in Dallas, TX, it seemed like a perfect time to share some upcoming trends in lighting design. Check out four major 2011 lighting trends from Sean Lavin, Vice President of Product Design at Tech Lighting. The Updated Classic – Beautiful Hand-blown Glass in Daring New Styles and On-Trend Colors "Timeless classics Read more

The science of happiness can seem like a cruel joke. Most studies tell us who is happier — 54-year-olds, West Coasters, or people with sisters — rather than how to be happier. And tangible advice usually oversimplifies life and states the obvious. But psychotherapist Philippa Perry's advice in today's Guardian on how to rewire our brains sounds like it could actually work. It's not easy, or Read more

A banana-berry or avocado-pear smoothie make sense for those on-the-go weekdays, but if you're looking to get your Saturday or Sunday off to a healthy start, try making your own pancakes at home. I must admit I'm not the biggest pancake person, but this recipe for blueberry-cornmeal griddle cakes, which comes courtesy of the Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas, made me a total convert. There's Read more

Clutter is expensive, because you spend a lot of money buying and storing it. Having clutter can also emotionally cost you — the sight of things lying around unused or messing up your house may cause you stress. Here are some places you should consider cleaning up: Closet: I'm sure you have a couple of pieces that you can't fit into or that were in fashion, like, 10 years ago. Start afresh and Read more

What are you up to this weekend? If you've been toying with the idea of hosting a get-together with your friends, then I've got the perfect inspiration for you. Earlier today, I introduced you to Colleen Reilly and Stephania Stanley, two friends who've been hosting girls' night get-togethers complete with crafts, cooking, and lots of conversation for seven years running. In the first part of our Read more