Kitchens remain the heart of most homes. It's not only where we cook and eat, but where friends and family gather, children do homework and daily chores are organized and completed. Kitchens provide a sense of comfort and belonging, so it's good news that kitchen remodels can retain a significant portion of their value.

Occasionally, it absolutely makes sense to splurge. For me, that splurge usually comes in the form of flowers or plants and this time of year, my gardening gloves are itching to hit the dirt. As long as our budget warrants it, the budget will include garden spending in the spring.

Along the lines of renewal, spring leaves me longing for a revived look indoors, too. Freshening up the interior of your home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here are some tips for getting a whole new look this spring.

Weekly financial Q&A, with advice on remodeling before trying to sell your home and dipping into your 401(k).

Who hasn’t been on the way home from the umpteenth carpool drop off and a hard day’s work, only to realize that dinner hasn’t crossed their mind all day? In a pinch, both financially and when you’re short on time, there’s nothing better than a rotisserie chicken. Here are a few of my all-time favorite last minute recipes that all begin with one shredded little chicken.

Weekly financial Q&A, with advice on emergency funds, finding foreclosed homes and financial planners.

Staying connected is imperative when it comes to matters of finance. Regular meetings help key parties feel ownership in decision-making, setbacks and victories. Planning sessions leave no stone unturned, no expense unaccounted for. If you vow to make one financial resolution this year, I urge you to get on the same page with your family. You decide when kids are old enough to participate, but make time for you and your partner to meet often and productively to ensure your chance of financial success in 2012.

Might this be the year that you look beyond the basics of investing and saving and address your entire financial situation? Professionals may call that financial planning or wealth management, but how do you get started?

Ninetendos and iPads and Elmo’s, oh my! Even the most budget-minded folks can slip up during the holidays; it’s all too easy to get caught up in the gift- giving spirit. There is nothing worse than regretting your purchases though; it completely undermines the spirit in which they were given.

Weekly financial Q&A, with advice on credit card debt and family with money problems.