We all like to treat ourselves every once in a while. Share the fun – let us know your favorite indulgence.

We’re not joking. Whether you need to beat stress, spark romance, or detect a lie, it’s the nose you should be using rather than your noodle.

Was there pumpkin pie at the first Thanksgiving? Does turkey make you sleepy? Did Pilgrims dress with buckles? The answers might surprise you.

Did you know you can recycle turkey fat in some areas? But that’s not the only thing you can do to thank the earth on Thanksgiving Day.

You’re past the Yabba Dabba Doo stage, but not quite in the Jetsons era. Today’s technology is fine for you. Over 90% households claim they own the following:

- Computer
- Dvd players
- Cell phones
- Digital Cameras
-
Since only 29% felt that all of the technology gives them a little more time for themselves, why not try the newest diet: The E-Fast. It’s not a crazy food plan! This is fasting from electronics.

Always thought homemade soup had to be so much work? Here’s the shortcut to sidestepping canned.

Their bedroom themes of trucks and princess are in the past. Now they want to redesign the room to be “their” room. How much decision authority do they get? Does their age make a difference? How do you come to a reasonable agreement regarding the changes?

Washing your face before bed is smart and not wearing sunscreen at the beach isn’t. But what other little factors can help or hurt your skin?

So go ahead—indulge in a chocolate whoopie pie for under 100 calories! You won’t have any regrets in the morning.

Halloween is Saturday! Members have decorated their home, bought costumes, grabbed a hayride and now are just waiting for the li’l goblins to come and collect their treats! Enjoy, but after it is all over, what do you do with all of that candy? We’ve got some creative ways to use it or get it out of your house.

What if you added too much salt or charred the main course? Don’t worry! Here are some easy fixes for common cooking emergencies.

Do your kids like fruit and veggies? Or do you surprise them with healthy ingredients in their favorite treats? Share your kid-friendly healthy snacking tips.

How do you tell when it is time to start potty training? What was your secret to help your child succeed?

A few tricks can move any house off the market faster. Here are 9 nifty ideas to become a smarter seller.

Suddenly, if you live in certain parts of the country, falling leaves are everywhere. And with them come opportunities for creative family fun.

Gobble, gobble. Turkey dinner is just around the corner. What’s on your menu, a special dish?

We would like to introduce you to our friend Roger Fishman. Watch and see the wisdom he found from people on both ends of the life spectrum. Watch the video.

Okay, so you did not get all that time you thought you would have to get into shape over the summer. But how about some “fun” ways to work out? Have you heard of Zumba, Forza or BOSU? Well, here is your chance to check it out!

What would happen if you simply started saying hello to everyone you met? We did it for 1 month. The results may surprise (and inspire) you.

You’re chatting on the cell phone while surfing the internet looking for the perfect restaurant to enjoy this weekend. Meanwhile, your favorite show is being recorded so you can watch later in the evening. What did you do years ago without these electronic gadgets?

During her 100+ years, Dorothy Young has seen a lot. In her younger years, she was even Harry Houdini’s assistant. Hear about how she came to be profiled in the upcoming book ‘What I Know.’

These easy-to-use sites can help save time, money, and stress, while simplifying your life. Hey, you might even teach your kids something.

With so many pictures taken from summer activities, members said they typically:
-Download and store them
-Email to friends and family
-Put in photo album
-Add to Facebook
But what about those picture frames. They are a great way to dress up a home, because they can be swapped out as often as your mood. Try these ideas for creative displays.

When you need quiet time where do you go? Is there a special place in your home just for you?
Let us know.

What if you could make everything in life just a little more delightful? Here are some easy ways to add a smile to the commonplace.

Kid in the car, 17 different things on my mind, dinner yet to be made, homework to be checked. Then my daughter, Sasha, saw the honeysuckle.

Dinnertime isn’t a quiet and reserved time in your homes.
Typically the top things happening are:
- 78 % Sharing of the day's activities
- 52% Fun, laughter
- 27% Watching TV
- 17% Kids complaining about the food
- 13% Rush to eat and leave mom the dishes!

The majority of you wanted ideas to make of most of your family time together, so here are some

The Emmy’s were on Sunday night. Did you tune in to see if your favorite show won or did your spouse and kids take over the remote control for the evening? Let us know what was on your television.

Whether you’re considering a first pet or thinking about getting another, the choice can be a difficult one. It can be especially hard if you’ve recently lost a pet. What should you consider when thinking about getting a pet?

Reaching out to others can help you discover great stories and form unexpected bonds. Here are easy and fun ways to make stronger connections.

Creativity is the word that describes 92% of your kids! Top creative activities kids have done recently are:
- Paintings/drawings
- Homemade cards
- Coloring
- Personalized My Space or Facebook pages
- Scrapbook/photo albums

To keep your kids excited about art once they’re past the Popsicle-stick project stage, we have found some ideas to keep ’e

This Spicy Olive Pasta is ready in the time it would take you to order out for pizza—and saves you that fight over toppings. Plus it’s healthier.

What is your secret weapon to getting your child to learn while still having fun?

Some people carry a trinket or something special that they feel brings them “good luck.” Do you have something? What makes it so special?

At what point do you decide to switch your child to a family doctor? What was your determining factor when deciding? Is there something particular that prompted you to switch?

A member wants to know how she can take her child to out of town sporting events on a budget. What cost saving tips do you have to share?

Did your family rent or go a movie that you thought you would not enjoy, but once you watched, it turned out great? Share your recommendation for best surprising movie.

Sometimes when the evening gets too busy or you are just too tired to cook, a pizza can be a quick and easy answer to the dinner time challenge. So, how do you top yours?

Have more secrets for upgrades? We all would like to be treated like royality, so share them with your Vocalpoint friends.

Does birth order matter in your family? Do your children act differently or do you treat them differently because they are the oldest, middle or youngest?

You need your rest too! What do you do to ensure you get enough rest in order to “be at your best”?

Wendy Booker is a mother of 3 who recently climbed Argentina’s Mt. Aconcagua. Next on her to-do list: Mt. Everest. And by the way, she has MS.

Get those TV’s warmed up. Football is the all time favorite sport to watch according to Vocalpoint moms. So whether you have parties at home or tailgate at the game, let us help you kick it off. Here’s how to make sure your spread scores with friends.

Fall time is around the corner. But at the beginning of the summer did you say to yourself that you were going to get into shape? Set goals of walking, maybe exercising more? So what happened, let us know!

Cinnamon-rubbed pork with maple-flavored apple puree can heat up the coolest day. Try it tonight.

So many fun events happened over the summer, and I bet you snapped a lot of pictures to capture those special moments. But now, what do you do with the pictures? Let us know.

Tend to toss and turn? Try this way to relax all the muscles in your body, including the most important ones of all—your eyelids.

A majority of members led their children to believe in fairy tale characters, but when a child asks if they’re real, 50% parents respond to their child by asking, “what do you think?”
A study of 3,000 parents found that every day moms and dads tell at least one fib to their kids. But is there a difference between good lies and bad?

As families head out on a vacation, 60% will probably stay in a hotel. Wouldn’t you love to have more room, maybe stay in a home! How? Try a house swap!

We love gift-of-the-month clubs, from wine and cheese to tea and coffee. Here’s how to start your own on a budget.

What you get: sweet sophistication called Cannoli Cream Napoleon. But enough riddles, start eating!

78% said they do have things in life that they just “gotta have”! Here are the top ones:
  - Computers
  - Caffeine
  - Cell Phones
  - Clean house
  - Certain TV shows
And then yes, chocolate!
From food to fancy jewelry, our wants often wildly exceed our needs. Here are some hints for living without the stuff you &ldqu

Sometimes we just let things slide; other times, we need to speak up for ourselves. When is it right to stand up for yourself and how do you do pull it off without being annoying?

Heart helper. Mood- and memory-booster. Even a pain reliever. Caffeine can be all those things—but only if you know how to use it right.

Vanilla is anything but plain when you dream up the right topping. For the most outrageous sundae bar, gather some of these for guests to sample.

Have you heard of BabyPlays? It’s like NetFlix but lends toys instead of movies. Great idea, but why not start your own (free) toy exchange?

Parents are the number one influence in the lives of their teens. Learn how you have the power to help them make healthy choices.

We’ve given this picnic favorite a healthy makeover. So what’s the secret ingredient that slashes the saturated fat? Check it out.

Sure, you can update those old patio chairs. But what else can you make new with some creativity and a few cans of spray paint?

When your child is experiencing symptons of illness, 69% still go and easily get an appointment at the pediatrician office. However, we have some other options for you.

You can find clinics in drugstores, supermarkets, even malls. So should you visit the next time you or the kids get sick? Here’s the diagnosis.

Every year it seems like the best season is over in a flash. Here’s our bucket list for things you need to do before summer ends.

Hot outside? We’ve got a sophisticated fruity cooler everyone can enjoy to chase away the heat.

What do you think about Vocalpoint’s new look? Do our changes help you get more out of your Vocalpoint experience? Let us know.

Are your kids ready to pick out their own clothes? (Are you ready?) For most, they let the kids pick out their school clothes at age of 11- 13. Even those cute toddlers, almost half would just let them wear their funky clothes to the store and just laugh. Enjoy! Here are ideas for giving them freedom without letting them go crazy.

Do you have things that you feel you can’t live without – gotta have? Let us know.

What worried you back in high school and what you can do to ease your child’s back-to-school stress?

Knowing how to manage money is more important than ever – especially for kids. Share your stories about kids and money. How do you keep them on the road to a healthy financial future?

It’s simple to cut the fat and calories in meat loaf—just mix in some brown rice. Using less meat and more rice is also a good way to bring down the cost. Add roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli, and you’ve got an easy (and health-smart) meal.

This chicken parm is filling but not heavy, thanks to spaghetti squash replacing the usual pasta. Spaghetti squash has just 31 calories per cup, but serves up 2 grams of fiber and a slightly nutty flavor. Plus, it’s a way to sneak in a veggie!

What’s a cake without flour? Elegant, rich…delicious! Just try this chocolate treat—you’ll feel like it came straight off a restaurant dessert tray. Added bonus: It’s a perfect cake for anyone who can’t have gluten.

Ditch the bottled red sauce with its high sodium and high fructose corn syrup. Create a more sophisticated pizza topped with a colorful mix of red and yellow garden tomatoes, Italian seasonings, and tangy cheese.

You won’t have to dread dried-out turkey leftovers anymore. Bathed in a honey mustard dressing and tossed with sweet potatoes, red onion, and dried cranberries, this fresh take on turkey is terrific.

Why do peppers get all the stuffing? The next time you’re craving comfort food, try something a little different and just as delicious—stuffed onions! Even if you’re not crazy about onions, you might like the gentle flavor of Vidalias.

Who says your lettuce needs to stay on a salad plate? Enjoy a healthy, flavor-packed salad sandwich that can go anywhere you need it to. It’s a great way to work veggies into your day, and it’ll fill you up with less fat than a meat sandwich.

Stuck in a breakfast rut? Maybe it’s time to mix up your morning. Get a little crazy and have a cookie—but not just any cookie. This breakfast cookie recipe satisfies both your sweet tooth and your nutritional needs.

Back when you started high school, 41% of you were worried about not being able to find your classes. Today children face many other challenges. How do you prepare your kids for a new school year?

Need to bring something to a barbecue? Try this slimmed-down side with just 121 calories per serving—you’ll be on everyone’s invite list.

Need an extension ladder for a project? Or extra chairs and tables for a party? Don’t buy or rent—set up your own neighborhood lending network.

Let us know what you’re doing this 4th of July. What’s your favorite thing to do on our national holiday? Does your family have a special tradition that you’d like to share with us?

How often have you heard those familiar words? Whether it is a runny nose, stomach ache or an annoying cough that is causing discomfort to your child, you know you will be off to the doctors. Where do you go to seek medical attention?

Worry about summer catastrophes—sunburn, undercooked burgers, and the like? Here’s permission to fret less, enjoy more.

Some Vocalpoint members, like Lillie from Tennessee, would like to go back to school, but where to start? From finding the right program to financial aid to balancing life and school, what advice do you have for moms who are considering additional education?

Do you know what challenges concern your teens most about going back to school? Take our quiz and share your thoughts with us.

Your toddler insists on wearing the clothes he picked out and your pre-teen wants to shop for her own school clothes this year. What do you do?

Oh yea, don’t forget the pickles and onions as they are some of the top favs as hamburger toppers! Majority don’t make their own condiments. It’s easier than you might think! Check out what we found.

Do you make your own condiments or have a special hamburger topper for others to try? Share your recipe or idea to turn a plain burger into a masterpiece.

Before money, there was a simple way of doing business called barter. And it’s coming back. Here’s how to swap what you have for what you need.

More than 75% of you know someone who is seeking a job. Maybe we can help with these 8 little-known tips.

If the economy has you (or your spouse) searching for a job, try chocolate plus 8 other little-known tips to help ace the next interview.

Why spend a glorious day at the doctor’s office? You can treat swimmer’s ear, sunburn, and more with home remedies—and resume fun immediately!

Make Independence Day about more than hot dogs and fireworks. Here are 4 things you can do on the Fourth to celebrate America with your kids.

A new book poses a challenge: If something doesn’t make you feel good, get rid of it. See what you might gain from losing some stuff.

Please tell us what you think about what you and your family drink.

Want a better hotel room? A cozier restaurant table? More airplane legroom? Here’s how to get bumped up (without spending extra cash).

For some, a great marriage comes easily; for others, it takes a little more work. What do you do to keep the spark alive with your spouse?

Some members were asking for some slow cooker recipes, so here is one of our favorites.   Enjoy!!

Most of us spend more of the summer than we’d like stuck indoors. This year, see how many activities you can move outdoors. Need some ideas?

Life has its ups and downs. Insurance can help make the downs a little easier. How do you determine when to review and make changes?

A study of 3,000 parents found that every day moms and dads tell at least one fib to their kids. But is there a difference between good lies and bad?

What goes on your burger? What’s in the tossed salad? Are you a “plain” person or do you like to spice it up?

Share your home improvement tips that won’t break the bank but can create the look you would like.

Able to do two things at once? What time saving secrets do you have to get more things done?

Help other moms look their best – suggest your favorite cosmetic product or share a great beauty tip on our message board.

Not much money to spend on travel? You might want to hear about this new thing called house swapping. Seriously.

Have you tried something that was totally different and outrageous for you, but looked great? What rules do you keep or break? Be daring, share!

testing for jenni

Besides being downright irritating, constant noise can actually be bad for your health. Here are some easy ways to turn down the volume.

Whether it’s his birthday, your anniversary, or some other special day, don’t waste time scratching your head about what to give him. Check here.

Some people keep cosmetics in the fridge. Others stick their batteries and candles in there. Is there any benefit to chilling nonfood items?