Cleaned out: Professional services struggling in down economy

As more and more homeowners struggle to keep a roof over their heads, fewer are using cleaning services.

The heat is on: Wood-burning stoves help reduce cost of warming home

High gas bills were taking a toll on Elizabeth Charrier's finances.

Great pumpkins: Residents preparing for Halloween, carving out fun

WINCHESTER -- It's a fruit. Most call it a vegetable. It's probably a gourd, too.

Persistent pests: Stink bugs are easy to attract, difficult to repel

Stink bugs are about as flattering as you might expect. Disregarding the characteristic from which their name derives, the bugs are equal parts elusive, persistent and annoying. But, who are we kidding -- most of all, they smell, emitting a stink, a la skunks, as a defense mechanism.

State offering deal on energy-saving products

WOODSTOCK -- Whether you're ready to replace your dishwasher or just change some light bulbs, next weekend may be the best time to do it.

Kitchen Kapers: Annual tour to showcase five area homes

WINCHESTER -- Homeowners who wonder what's cooking in the world of kitchen design and decorating need forage no farther than Frederick County to uncover some food for thought.

Keeping a low profile

WOODSTOCK - Even in winter, houseplants are much easier to take care of than most people think.

Garden full of tasks perfect for fall days

Even though the growing season is winding down, you can still enjoy many more months of beauty from your garden.

Linden man's passion leads to clock-repair shop

LINDEN -- Stan Stocker's garage ticks, sounds created by a chorus of clocks that he is about to fix, has fixed or owns and has no need to fix.

Nature's fences: Hedges offer beauty, privacy, protection

Looking for something different to do with your garden for next season? A hedge might be just the thing.