Pay off your mortgage in 2012?

Paying off your mortgage might sound like an ambitious New Year's resolution, especially if you have recentlyrefinanced into a 30-year term. But it's still smart for homeowners to give some thought as to how they'll pay off their home loan -- if not in 2012, then sometime soon.

An early mortgage payoff can net substantial interest savings compared to making scheduled payments for 15 or 30 years.

Paying more quickly reduces your housing cost, freeing up that money for other needs and wants, says Ronit Rogoszinski, a wealth adviser at Arch Financial Group in Garden City, N.Y. You'll still be responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, home maintenance and repairs, but your mortgage payment will disappear.

Create a Wedding Cookie Table

Sure, you already ordered the cake, but if you know your reception won't be complete without more treats, consider creating a cookie table. A long-standing tradition in places like Pittsburgh, the cookie table is a great way to leave a sweet taste in your guests' mouths. But this is one task that's not on the bride's to-do list. Ask friends and family to help bake cookies for the reception display. Don't forget to provide take-home containers for your guests!

Our Favorite Cookie Recipes

Our favorite cookie collections can satisfy any cookie craving: These go-to cookie recipes include both old favorites and new treats. Many bakers agree that a well-established cookie repertoire is important, and our collection will help build yours, beginning with basics like foods

Mukhtar advices conditional resumption of Nato supplies

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister ChaudhryAhmed Mukhtar on Teusday said we must get our conditions approved for the resumption of Nato supply routes, Geo News reported Tuesday.While talking to Geo News here today, the minister said he has never said that Nato routes should be restored. We are trying to build good relationships with all countries including the United States. There should not be any misunderstandings with America, the two countries have enjoyed good ties and it is our duty to mend relations. The parliamentary committee, working on drafting the conditions, has responsible members in it.The matter of drone attacks is still unresolved and Pakistan would continue to raise it until it is decided.

Lens makers focus on smartphone cameras

Smartphone cameras have been getting better all the time and accessory makers are now offering a variety of lens options for the devices, intensifying their rivalry with the compact "point-and-shoots."

Some of the lens attachment makers have been displaying their products at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) which closed on Friday.

Apple, in launching the latest model of the iPhone, the 4S, in October, sang the praises of its new camera, calling it the "you-can't-believe-it's-on-a-phone camera."