(BPT) - Home cooks are spending more time in their own kitchens and less time dining out, according to the January Monthly Measuring Cup Trend Report. Nearly half of surveyed consumers said they’re dining out less this year than they did in 2012 and are relying more on their cooking skills at home. Fortunately, technology makes it easier than ever for home chefs to prep and cook meals at home and clean up conveniently and efficiently afterward.

(BPT) - On average, working adults spend less than an hour per day socializing and relaxing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s American Time Use Survey. Yet a host of research – and common sense – tells us that spending time together in a social, relaxing way is essential to building and maintaining healthy relationships.

(BPT) - Builders are back in business, and new-home construction is up in areas across the country. So is remodeling, as plenty of Americans choose to stay put and upgrade their current homes rather than tackle the challenge of buying and moving into something new.

(NAPSI)—Whether it’s a vacation road trip or your daily commute to work, when the temperatures climb higher on the outside, things are also heating up under the hood of your car.

(NAPSI)—If you’ve ever thought about taking steps to prepare for a possible disaster, you’re not alone. Nationally, some 8 million Americans are doing some “prepping” to protect their families in case something bad comes their way.

(NAPSI)—Homeowners use water for many purposes, including drinking, cooking, washing, heating, humidifying, flushing (the No. 1 use of water in a home) and their pets. Those are just a few reasons homeowners should make sure they understand what’s in their water.

(BPT) - Summer can be tough on gardens. In what should be their glory days, many gardens suffer from neglect. Long weekends and summer vacations leave yards untended, while summer heat is an excuse for putting off chores. But it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s possible to have both a glorious well-maintained garden and time for fun in the sun by taking some smart gardening steps now.

(BPT) - It’s got all the hallmarks of a great home improvement – adds value, enhances livability and beauty, and creates a perfect gathering spot for family and friends. So why wouldn’t you add a swimming pool to your outdoor living space?

It is impossible to express your love for the woman who raised you and made you who you are today through one day of recognition and a gift. Nonetheless, we should all put a little thought into a thank you — even though mom will probably say that it’s not necessary — and here are just a few ideas.

(StatePoint) There are unlimited excuses you can make to skip cooking. But if lack of time or money is the reason you’re getting take-out yet again, consider this -- plenty of fresh, inventive meals can be prepared quickly and on a budget.

(BPT) - Warmer temperatures often mean a busier social calendar. So whether you’re planning a meal to enjoy al fresco, or whipping up a sweet treat for a neighborhood block party, it’s a great time of year to experiment in the kitchen.

(BPT) - Warm weather heralds home improvement season. It’s also the season of high electric bills as air conditioners hum to life in response to rising temperatures across the country. When you’re making summer upgrades to your home, improvements that make your house more livable and attractive are even more rewarding when they also help put money back in your pocket.

(StatePoint) Road tripping is a summertime rite of passage. From camping and beach trips to family reunions, most likely you’ll be adding some extra miles to your vehicle over the next few months.

(BPT) - Is your backyard ready for bliss this summer? You probably look forward to spending as much time outdoors as possible during warmer months. But do you really have everything you need to ensure you can enjoy your outdoor living space from dawn to dusk – and beyond?

(NAPSI)—Show your love for mom by looking after her health with the gift of heart-smart cooking.

(NAPSI)Looking to add some color to your dinner table? Decorate your plate with canned fruits and vegetables, which are packed with nutrition and provide garden quality all year long.

(NAPSI)—A growing number of decorators—and homeowners—are expressing positive opinions about the trend of using neutral colors.

(NewsUSA) - If you own a home, hot water availability can significantly impact how many daily tasks are accomplished, but it doesn't have to be that way. What if you could check a number of to-dos off your daily list -- such as laundry, dishwashing, showers, baths for the kids and perhaps one for yourself -- without having to devise a hot-water schedule? Well, you can.