One of the quickest and easiest ways to deter burglars is motion-activated lighting around the home, illuminating would-be uninvited guests. The aisles of home improvement stores are lined with dozens of inexpensive motion sensor outdoor security lights at reasonable prices.

If installing a completely new security light isn't possible, check out existing lighting and swap it out for a motion-detecting unit at front, side, and back entries. A solar powered light allows for placement nearly anywhere without having to touch any wiring, though costs are higher and illumination less bright than wired models.

Windows

An audible warning after a locked door is pried opened or window broken might offer a few precious seconds to call the police, or hopefully scare intruders away with the blast of an alarm sound. A professionally installed alarm system isn't the only option — a budget solution: $4.50 glass break detectors on windows. Some models work by detecting vibration, while others activate when contacts are broken, but they're all effective and produce a loud and high pitch alarm. Available as complete kits or individual units, with higher-end models offering wireless monitoring/notification.

Doberman Security SE-0106 Ultra Slim Window Alert: $9.99
Uxcell Magnetic Entry Warning Alarm Switch: $4.48
Skylink SC-1000 Complete Wireless Alarm System: $129.95

(Amazon.com)

Locks

Oftentimes, burglars aren't even breaking into a home — they're taking advantage of a window left open or door left unlocked. While we can always try to remind ourselves to lock the doors, it's inevitable someone will forget while in a hurry. Install an electronic lock and you'll never have to worry about the kids running out of the house without locking up.

Kwikset SmartKey SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt: $98.97
Kwikset SmartKey Powerbolt Deadbolt: $69.97
MORE: Smartphones to Replace Front Door Keys

Cameras

Security camera systems aren't just for keeping an eye on the home; they're an effective way to keep an eye on pets and children while away, especially now that many systems offer remote wireless/wi-fi accessibility. DIY kits are available online for a few hundred dollars, and existing webcams can be set up for remote monitoring with free software like Yawcam. Some models even allow control of camera movement over the internet!

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The 5 Best Moments From the 2013 Tony Awards

June 10, 2013, 10:05 am

≫ Next: New Hair Color? Change the Makeup

≪ Previous: How to Make Your Home Safer On a Budget

Did you watch?

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radio city music hall

how i met your mother

(Reuters)

The Opening Number

The show started with one of the most spectacular opening numbers in recent memory. Entertainers from several nominated musicals joined in with Harris for much of the seven-minute sequence, which saw him not only singing and dancing, but performing cheerleading choreography and a magical disappearing act worthy of Vegas. To top it all off, the star of Broadway's oddest one-man show, Mike Tyson, appeared on stage to lend his singing(?) voice at the end.

(Reuters)

Cyndi Lauper's Performance

It was a big night for Cyndi Lauper, who took home a Tony for best original score (for "Kinky Boots"). She also took the stage to perform "True Colors" during the annual In Memoriam segment honoring the prominent theater personalities who've passed in the last year. Needless to say, it made for a powerfully moving moment. Plus, there's almost nothing better than a live rendition of "True Colors," right?

(Reuters)

Cicely Tyson's Acceptance Speech

Actress Cicely Tyson took the award for best actress in a play (for "The Trip to Bountiful"), but she also took the unofficial award for best speech. "It's been 30 years since I stood on stage," she said. "I really didn't think it would happen again in my lifetime." Later, when the orchestra (and the producers) cued her to end the speech, she complied in the most gracious way possible. "'Please wrap it up,' it says," she announced to the audience. "Well, that's exactly what you did with me. You wrapped me up in your arms after 30 years and now I can go home with a Tony."

(Reuters)

NPH Making Out With a Dog

The title says it all. The dog who plays Sandy from "Annie" nuzzled up to Neil Patrick Harris as he introduced a performance from the cast of "A Christmas Story: The Musical"— but things quickly got crazier from there. Sandy licked Harris' face and the host eventually reciprocated Sandy's kisses before saying, "You do know I'm in a relationship, right?"

(Reuters)

The Self-Mockery

Harris welcomed former Broadway star Andrew Rannells to the Tony stage, then quickly pointed out how Rannells' television show, "The New Normal," had been canceled. This launched Rannells into a genuinely funny song about the pros and cons of leaving New York for a TV deal in L.A. He was then joined by two actresses in a similar predicament: Megan Hilty (of the recently canceled show "Smash") and Laura Beranti (of the canceled shows "Go On" and "The Playboy Club"), the latter of whom swigged a bottle of booze as she sang.

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New Hair Color? Change the Makeup

June 10, 2013, 12:11 pm

≫ Next: What You Need Right Now: 12 Gingham Print Pieces To Go Retro Americana

≪ Previous: The 5 Best Moments From the 2013 Tony Awards

We asked some renowned artists to the stars on how you can easily show off a new, better looking you with some simple tips and tricks.

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how to change your makeup after dyeing your hair

(Reuters)

Face

The one product you’ll most likely want to spend money on — for the best color match possible — is foundation. “When going from brunette to blonde, you might want to warm up your foundation a bit, even if it’s just with an extra swipe of bronzer,” says celebrity makeup artist Julie Hewett. As you go lighter with your hair color, you want to make sure your face has enough of a glow so you don’t appear too pale and washed out. As an alternative, you can use tinted moisturizers and BB or CC creams, which even out your skin tone, hide blemishes and feel lighter on the face for daily wear.

(Reuters)

Lips

Your lips are the one facial feature beauty experts insist you can experiment with. Whether you’re opting to go bright and bold or prefer a classic nude pout, use your new hair color as an opportunity to try out different shades you normally wouldn't consider for day or night. You may think a rich red lipstick may appear too harsh with your usual brunette 'do, but as a blonde you may feel like a bombshell.

(Reuters)

Eyes

When it comes to playing up your eyes to match your hair color, consider using an eyeliner instead of eyeshadow, which is easier to apply and more affordable. “For blondes, a more natural and subtler version of your black liner can be a fantastic shimmering chocolate bronze, fig or even aquamarine,” explains Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Vanessa Elese. “Brunettes can try a dark plum or even emerald green. And redheads can have a dark gray or blue jean blended right into the lash line for the right hint of color and drama.” Elese also recommends using a virtual makeover program, like Taaz.com, which allows you to get a sneak peak of how certain cosmetics will look on you before you invest in them.

(Reuters)

Brows

To make your hair color appear as natural as possible, it’s generally advised to make your eyebrows complement your mane. And contrary to popular belief, your brows don't always have to match. “Eyebrows are the true frames of the face, so don’t forget to adjust your eyebrows to reflect your new hair color,” says Elese. “For darker-haired ladies, a shade lighter for your eyebrows will work well. If going lighter on your hair, go a shade or two darker on your brows.” Experts warn that dyeing your brows should always be left to a professional to prevent unwanted accidents on the eyes. Also, a colorist would be able to recommend a hue that will enhance your overall look. Depending on your hair color, you may just need highlights, low lights, or just a light touch of tint.

(Reuters)

Complementary Colors

"Summer is all about pastels and vibrant colors, which can easily complement any hair color,” says celebrity makeup artist Julie Tussey of New York City’s Angelo David Salon. “When in doubt, stick with on-trend colors, such as cognac, gold and peach tones around the eyes, lips and cheeks.” However, if you’re looking for colors that are more demure and natural, nude and mauve lips, in particular, work for all hair colors.

(Reuters)

Season

According to Tussey, the most important factor in changing up your makeup regimen is the season. “As the weather changes, our skin also changes in tone, which requires a different set of makeup to make it work,” she explains. “Summer weather means your skin will give a warmer tone. Opt for foundations that are a shade darker than usual. My suggestion is to explore BB creams because it multitasks as a primer, moisturizer and SPF while evening out your skin tone. This relieves you from buying other products, which will save you money and time.”

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What You Need Right Now: 12 Gingham Print Pieces To Go Retro Americana

June 11, 2013, 6:42 am

≫ Next: Buzz Aldrin's Shocking Revelation at Spike TV's Guys Choice Awards

≪ Previous: New Hair Color? Change the Makeup

We’ve narrowed down 12 gingham print pieces to help you channel your inner bombshell.

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(Opening Ceremony)

Opening Ceremony Cat Eye Gingham Sunglasses

Opening Ceremony, $165

(ASOS)

Peter Jensen Loose Double Layered Blazer in Gingham Check

ASOS.com, $274.91

(Topshop)

Topshop Gingham Rain Mac

Topshop, $90

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Buzz Aldrin's Shocking Revelation at Spike TV's Guys Choice Awards

June 11, 2013, 7:11 am

≫ Next: 25 Things That Are Keeping You Overweight

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What does he really hate about space travel?

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spike guy's choice awards

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25 Things That Are Keeping You Overweight

June 11, 2013, 12:30 pm

≫ Next: How to Cope with a Drunk Partner (and Save the Relationship)

≪ Previous: Buzz Aldrin's Shocking Revelation at Spike TV's Guys Choice Awards

One or a few of these weight-loss culprits may be all that's standing in the way of your goals.

Tags:

reasons you are not losing weight

(Thinkstock)

You Overeat Healthy Foods

Nuts, avocados, whole wheat pasta, olive oil, and dark chocolate are all natural and healthy, but they aren't void of calories. You still need to watch how much you eat of the good stuff. For example, avocado offers a ton of health benefits, but an entire fruit is over 200 calories. Find out what the serving sizes of your other favorite healthy foods are here.

(Thinkstock)

You Don't Eat Breakfast

Skipping breakfast may seem like a great way to save calories, but your body will actually hold onto fat because it thinks it's being starved. Keep in mind that people who eat breakfast regularly lose more weight, so make sure to eat breakfast each morning to jump-start your metabolism. Don't just grab anything; include protein to give yourself sustainable energy and fiber to fill you up for hours.

(Thinkstock)

You Don't Practice Portion Control

When it comes to a balanced diet, we know that portion control is one of the keys to success. Keep measuring cups and spoons on hand to make sure your serving sizes are appropriate, and learn how to give your body the "I'm full" signal in order to help you drop the fork when the time is right and move on with your day.

(Thinkstock)

You Eat While Standing Up

Standing at the fridge or the counter to chow down isn't saving time or energy and can lead to mindless eating. It's best to designate time for snacking and meals that's set apart from other activities.

(Thinkstock)

You Don't Sleep Enough

Making time for your workouts can mean less time for sleep, but it's important to get enough Z's if you're trying to lose weight. You need extra energy to keep up with your exercise routine, and skimping on sleep can affect your body's ability to control its appetite: not enough shut-eye increases appetite-stimulating hormones.

(Thinkstock)

You Overindulge in Low-Fat Foods

Going for foods with a lower calorie count can be deceiving, since many times they're filled with extra sodium, sugar, or chemical additives to make up for the ingredients the company has removed or decreased. Not only are these light versions less nutritious, but they also end up tasting "lighter," leading you to eat more. You'll probably end up consuming more calories than you would if you just ate a regular-sized portion of the real thing.

(Thinkstock)

You Don't Get Enough Veggies

Eating five to seven servings of fruits and veggies a day is important for everyone, but dieters who go heavy on the produce are more likely to lose and keep the weight off, since a diet full of plant-based foods offers a greater variety of nutrients with fewer calories — and all that fiber keeps the body feeling fuller longer.

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