Wanda Holmes

When spring arrives with its bright sunshine, fresh air, vibrant colors and light, do you find yourself regretting the decorating decisions you made last fall or winter? It's natural to incorporate the season into your home decor, and the best way to do that is with design touches that can change as easily - and quickly - as the seasons themselves.

While you may love the bright reds and greens of the holiday season or the lush lilacs and blues of spring and summer, making them the foundation of a room's design can leave the decor feeling out-of-step when the seasons change. By starting out with a foundation of neutral colors in walls, flooring and furnishings, you can add colorful and seasonally appropriate accents.

Updating your decor to complement the season is as simple as focusing on a few key areas.

Lighting

It's easy to overlook, but lighting is a key element in room design, and one that needs to change with the season.

In spring and summer, when sunshine is abundant and the days are longer, you can rely more on natural light. During warm months, you may only need artificial light late in the evening, when the advanced hour makes soft, muted light appropriate. Winter's shorter days and weaker sunlight lead to greater dependence on artificial light throughout the day, so your lighting design should include options that can be used throughout the day.

Most rooms will benefit from a mixture of overhead lighting, floor lamps, wall sconces and table lamps.

Walls

While neutral-hued walls make a versatile background for virtually any design, don't be afraid to spice things up with seasonal touches. Repositionable wall covering options make it possible to create a seasonal look with a wall mural - and then remove it and replace it with something different when the season changes.

A patented adhesive allows you to easily place the removable wallpaper on virtually any smooth, flat surface, from windows to walls. You can pull it down, reposition it elsewhere, even fold it up and store it in a drawer for use next year. A wide variety of designs mean you can find something to fit your seasonal decor, and if you don't see anything you like, you can customize by submitting your own original photo through the website.

Flooring

If your floor is wood or you have a newer home with builder-installed carpet, you probably already have a neutral palette to work with. Adding seasonal flair to floors is as simple as adding or removing area rugs.

Area rugs in rich tones can warm up a room during winter months - especially when wood floors can feel cold underfoot. You can even add an accent rug in evergreen or crimson to underscore your holiday decor.

In warm months, when your family spends more time outdoors, a more durable area rug, positioned near entryways can help keep soil, grass clippings and other debris off your carpet or floor.

Accessories

From window treatments to wall art, accessories are an easy, great way to create a seasonal look in any room.

In winter, when you want to keep out the chill, choose heavier drapes in colors that inspire warmth and comfort. For autumn or spring, when you want to welcome in sunlight, lighter, sheerer options can be appropriate. And in summer, when you'll rely on blinds to block out hot midday sun, pastels and lighter fabrics can be a soothing foil to the utilitarian appearance of blinds.

Just as you change your own wardrobe to stay in step with the seasons, updating your home decor seasonally can help make your home feel welcoming and comfortable. Fortunately, it's easy to keep your home decor in tune with the seasons when you make a few updates that are easy to change with the season.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has put together a high-level overview of the financial information you should be aware of and consider during the various stages in your life. This is intended to be informative only, and everyone's needs will vary based on their personal situation. You should always seek advice from a licensed professional when considering the purchase of financial products.

20s

In your 20s, you're usually just starting off in your first job and struggling to make ends meet; beginning to build a financial portfolio is probably not at the top of your to-do list. However, this can be a critical time as it can set your financial foundation for the rest of your life. A top priority should be building an emergency savings account to help you get through an unexpected loss of a job or a large and unexpected financial obligation. This should be separate from your normal savings and should only be drawn from under extraordinary circumstances.

Also consider looking into disability income insurance, to make sure your income and savings are both protected if you were ever unable to work due to a long-term illness or injury. Disability income insurance will serve you well throughout your career and the sooner you purchase, the better-protected you'll be.

Additionally, this can be a time to begin thinking about starting an investment portfolio, if you have the means, as the longer you're invested the greater potential for long-term growth. Work with a financial professional to ensure your investments align with your appropriate level of risk for your specific situation.

30s

Your 30s are the prime time to continue building a solid financial future. Hopefully you're comfortable in your career, perhaps have gotten married and may even have begun building a family. This is when your financial options start to open up and you may want to start thinking about life insurance to offer protection for your family's future against an unexpected death and loss of income. Term insurance for yourself and coverage for your children are usually affordable, easy to procure and can offer additional financial protection for you and your family.

This is also when you should be getting serious about your savings plans.- Retirement savings should be at the top of your mind, as you've started to make more money in your 30s and are becoming more comfortable navigating your bills and expenses. IRAs, 401(k)s, annuities and other retirement savings tools are important for you at this stage - the earlier you start saving, the more you'll accumulate. And it's never too early to start thinking about college savings for children.

40s

In your 40s, many people have teenage children, tackle new challenges and opportunities in their professional lives and have established a level of income they can rely on comfortably. You can start to work with your child to investigate the various options (savings, aid, loans, grants, etc.) to help pay for post-secondary education. This also might be a time to start considering additional life insurance, as your assets and need for protection have grown as you've prospered both personally and professionally.-

Since you're probably about halfway through your career, you should also start to keep an eye on the retirement horizon and on your overall retirement strategy. Make sure it aligns with your goals and dreams for after your career ends.

50s

Your 50s are an exciting time in your financial life. Your children have probably left the nest and retirement is just around the corner. You should think about establishing a floor of guaranteed income, possibly by purchasing an annuity or insurance product, to meet your essential expenses that will continue into your retirement. This is the time to start considering how you want to live in retirement and beyond. What level of income would you like after you retire and how will you maintain your standard of living? Are you protecting your savings from the high costs of extended care? Whether you're looking to purchase long-term care insurance or not, this is also a time when you should discuss your extended care plans with loved ones, and how that might affect everyone involved.

60s

In your 60s, your retirement has probably arrived or is right around the corner. This is where managing assets, investments and financial strategies are critical. Even at this stage of life, it is important for you to have some of your financial assets in an investment portfolio carefully managed for growth consistent with your risk profile. Meeting regularly with your financial representative at this life stage will help you stay on track with your financial goals.

This is also when you should consider leaving a legacy through a life insurance policy that designates your children or a favorite charity as a beneficiary. The death benefit from life insurance can ensure that your spirit of generosity lives on and the causes you care about will be supported in the future. Another option for securing your future is Medicare supplement insurance, which will help with medical bills not covered by Medicare. This protection can help safeguard your retirement assets from additional costly medical bills.

No financial journey is the same. We all have different needs and goals at different stages of our lives. However, with a solid financial program in place along with the support of a financial professional, you can be prepared to make a lifetime of wise financial choices.

(NC)-Home ownership is a big dream for many young Canadians, and is likely the single biggest investment most of us will make in our lives. While saving for a down payment can be challenging, Farhaneh Haque, director of mortgage advice at TD Canada Trust, says that young Canadians can save for a down payment a little quicker by following a few simple rules.
 

"First, examine your budget and set a savings goal," says Haque. "Take advantage of online budgeting tools to gain insights into where you spend your money. Also remember that in addition to your down payment you will need to save for the additional costs involved with a home purchase, which include land transfer tax, moving costs and legal fees."
 

Next, curb your spending and increase your savings. "Even a small adjustment in your spending habits can go a long way toward helping you save a bigger down payment," says Haque. "For example, consider using transit to get to work instead of driving and paying for parking - it can really add up over time."
 

One of the most effective - yet overlooked - strategies is to put money aside before you can spend it. Haque suggests setting up a regular, preauthorized transfer service that moves a specific amount from each pay cheque into a high interest savings account. Making savings automatic is a simple and effective way to stay disciplined while saving for a down payment.
 

Finally, Haque reminds first time home buyers that they may be able to take advantage of the federal government's Home Buyers' Plan. "Those who have been actively saving for their retirement can access up to $25,000 from their RSPs to bump up their down payment when they purchase their first home. The RSP funds must be paid back within 15 years, so it is important to factor this repayment into your monthly budget."
 

For more advice on saving for a down payment, visit www.tdcanadatrust.com/homeownership

(NC)-What we eat affects how we feel. And for those people living with arthritis, healthy eating habits can often be helpful.

The Arthritis Society has developed this healthy recipe for year-round entertaining. This elegant entrée is effortless to prepare and makes a leaner option than regular roasts, plus, trout is a great source of omega 3s. Serve with wilted baby greens and oven-roasted baby potatoes.

Ingredients

Trout:

• 2 lb. (1 kg) boneless rainbow trout, about 2 large fillets

• 1/4 tsp. (1 ml) each salt and pepper

• 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) each olive oil and Dijon mustard

• 2 tsp. (10 ml) white wine vinegar

• 1/4 tsp. (1 ml) dried thyme leaves

Relish:

• 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cups (500 ml) sliced cremini or white mushrooms

• 1/2 tsp. (2 ml) dried thyme leaves

• 1/4 tsp. (1 ml) each salt and pepper

• 1/2 cup (125 ml) chopped roasted red pepper

• 1 tsp. (5 ml) white wine vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Chopped parsley (optional)

• Lemon wedges

Directions Trout: Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Arrange trout on a lightly greased, foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper. Blend oil with mustard, vinegar and thyme; brush evenly over the trout. Roast for 8 to 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Relish: Meanwhile, heat oil in a large, non-stick skillet set over medium-high heat. Add onion, mushrooms, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes or until browned. Stir in roasted red pepper, vinegar and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes or until glossy.

Spoon mushroom relish over trout. Garnish with parsley (if using) and serve with lemon wedges.

Makes 6 servings. More recipes are available online at arthritis.ca.

(NC)-When renovating a home, people often forget one of the most important components: the outdoor space. If done right, your yard can become more than an extension of your home - it can be a private escape. The experts at Home Depot Canada recommend the following tips for creating an outdoor retreat.
 

Be your own weather specialist
 

It is important to keep the climate in mind when choosing your outdoor furniture. For example, if you live in a windy area, select heavier furniture as lighter plastic chairs are likely to turn up on your neighbour's lawn. If you experience heavy, regular rainfall, try to stay away from materials like wrought iron that may rust. And to lengthen the life of your outdoor pieces, make sure to store your patio furniture when weather isn't in your favour. Many outdoor cushions and pillows at Home Depot feature vibrant, fade-resistant colours and are made using high-quality, weather-resistant materials.
 

Set the mood
 

Like any room in your house, lighting is key when it comes to the outdoors. Solar powered lights are a great option and help save on energy bills. Installation is easy as there is no wiring or plugs to worry about. With many sizes and styles to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect one to brighten up your outdoor space.
 

Create a space with a purpose
 

Do you want to use your space to host parties, relax, or give your children somewhere they can play? How you plan on using the space will determine what type of furniture you need. And with outdoor furniture, you can get creative: chairs can be replaced with recliners, swings, loungers, or even hammocks. Decorative accents are also essential. Throw a few colourful pillows on your outdoor furniture or put an outdoor area rug under your patio set. As long as fashion meets function, anything goes.
 

With the right tools and tips, setting up a fun and functional outdoor space doesn't need to be an overwhelming project. More information is available online at www.homedepot.ca where you can
 

view the patio buying guide and inspiration gallery.

• Do pack a lunch and brew your own coffee. Buying your lunch for work or school can cost an average of $10 per day. Plus, the added cost of a cup-a-joe every morning can quickly add up. If you pack a lunch, you'll need to incur additional grocery costs, but in the long run you'll be amazed at how much you can save.

• Do a weekly, rather than daily, grocery shop. Planning a weekly menu and shopping list will help you save gas, time, mental energy and money. This will also only help reduce impulse buys, and encourage healthier eating habits. For additional savings, consider purchasing non-brand name items and buying in bulk.

• Do eliminate duplicate household expenses. If you are already paying for high-speed Internet, why not switch your home phone land-line to a voice over IP phone system? Very popular, for example, is the sleek Ooma Telo. This VoIP device can be hooked up to the Internet, letting you make unlimited local and long distance calls anywhere in Canada.

• Do carpool or take public transportation to work. As gas prices continue to rise, avoid driving to work alone every day. Public transportation is an excellent, often cost- and time-effective way to get to and from work. If this is not an option in your area, consider sharing the ride with a coworker who lives nearby - you'll enjoy the company and save money.

More information is available online at http://ca.ooma.ca