Month: April 2012 - page 2

The Perfect Personalized Gift For Any Occasion

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Giving gifts has become a year round event.  No longer are gifts only present within the Christmas holiday season but now people are giving more often.  People are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, babies, weddings and many smaller holidays such as Easter, Valentine’s Day and Independence Day.  With all of these gifts how can one giver offer personalized gifts that show thought and relevance while staying within a budget that is reasonable?

 

One element that makes gift giving easier and less of the challenge that is involved in going out to the stores is the blessing of the Internet.  Gift giving and personalization is so much easier when you can search online and everything you are looking for is a click away.  Givers are able to find unique personalized items that are often not found in stores locally or are only found at specialty boutiques.  Everyone knows shopping boutiques takes time and often easily takes us over budget.

 

If you find yourself in search of a gift for a friend, loved one or even an acquaintance it is easier than ever to find something personalized.  A personalized gift that is made for someone is something you can be proud to give and the receiver will be so thankful to receive.  A personalized gift shows the receiver that you have out some thought into why they are special and why the gifts is just perfect for them.  Personalized kids toys are amongst my favorite to give because children light up when something is especially made for them.  It is amazing what that little bit of personalization says for you as a gift giver.

 

I know what you are thinking however it is not true, personalized gifts and toys are no more expensive than any other gift you might choose.  Many presents can be engraved, embroidered or painted with a name, initials or something else unique to the receiver.  An economical approach to personalized children’s toys for an event such as Independence Day is sand toys in red, white and blue with their name on them.  This makes it easy to keep track of all of the sand toys the child brought with them to the beach (nice for mom) and also shows you put thought into the reason for the gift. A gift like this can be kept easily under ten dollars and is something that any young child would love to have.

 

If you are looking at a personalized present make sure to consider each recipient separately.  For instance I love crabs so I would enjoy a personalized gift with crabs.  In fact my husband took a plain beach towel with a crab design and embroidered a phrase that is personal to us regarding the beach on it.  I appreciated that gift more than anything.  It showed he had been paying attention.  However, this present would not be appreciated to someone who never spends time at the beach and that thinks crabs are nasty. It pays to know your recipients hobbies, past times, likes and dislikes.  This will make it simpler to find a perfect personalized gift.

 

Finding a personalized gift for someone not only makes their day but yours also.  It is so nice to give a gift that you are proud of that someone will appreciate.  The one thing I hate more than anything is on Christmas to receive a candle or something silly for the house.  Put a bit of effort into buying presents year round for your friends and family.  I guarantee they will notice the difference.

My Favorite Kids Toys

Search Engine Placement Increases Traffic To Websites

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is SEO? Search engine optimization is the process of getting your website ranked on the front page of major search engines. The process takes making a website that is easy to maneuver with relevant content so that it is easily recognized by search engines. As you guessed there is a lot more to it than that but in general that is what it takes to get your website on the front page of Google, Yahoo or Bing.

You may ask yourself why it is in your best interest to rank on the front page. Why is this important? How often are you searching Google and find yourself looking at the results on page five? Never! That is because the most relevant information to your search has come up on the front page. Within the top ten results you have an answer to what your search was. It is proven over and over again that ninety-five percent of all traffic to a website comes from front page search results. People are impatient. They want to get the information they need without searching any further than they have to in order to get it.
What does this mean to you, a business owner with an ineffective online presence? You must work toward a long term SEO solution. Many times this involves working with a search engine placement team of experts to analyze, fix and maintain your website and develop an online marketing plan. The forefront of the plan involves making sure your site is functioning optimally. This means looking into the content, the bac-kend, the website design and the overall ease of maneuvering through the site. Look at it from a customer’s point of view not as a business owner. Sometimes too much information can be as off putting as too little.

It is helpful to go into any new business venture with eyes wide open. The same is true when hiring a search engine optimization team of experts for your online marketing presence. There are some key terms that get thrown around a lot that can be confusing to someone just entering the search engine race. Below you will find terms and definitions to help you come out on top when finding a search engine placement team to work with for your SEO needs.
• SEM – This acronym stands for search engine management. This entails the process of designing and marketing your website for the best online presence possible. The goal is to position your

website in both search advertising and paid advertising. Paid advertising is a whole other beast we can talk about at another time.
• SEO – This is the acronym that represents search engine optimization. This is what we talked about earlier, making the sites content and design relevant for search engines to index and appeal to users.
• PPC – This acronym is all about paid advertising and stands for pay-per-click. This is, in very general terms, when someone places an ad and pays each time someone clicks on the ads.
• Natural Rankings – A term that is used for any listing that your site comes by in the free or unpaid sections of the web.
The following terms are used for the design element of the site that really is not relevant to the visual aspect of the site however is needed for indexing purposes.
• Meta Tags: This is the information that is seated in the back-end of the website. The Meta tags are not really relevant to the person searching in any aspect other than they help with the indexing of your site within search engines. Many people will never even have knowledge that such tags and back end info exists.
• Title Tags: This is a Meta tag that briefly describes what the page is all about in short. This is a perfect spot to use the keywords you are aiming your search engine results towards.
• Description: This is a description found on each page that describes the content in detail.
• Keywords: These are the exact terms in word or phrase form. These keywords will be entered in the text as well as the back end of the site in an effort to improve your search engine rankings.

Creative Programs and Systems

Keeping Your Family Safe At Home With A Few Common Sense Tips

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is the best home security option for your home and family?  When you are assessing the current home security plan any and all corrective action you do to protect your home and family is a step closer to more secure home.

 

Some home security tips to begin thinking about are items that will detour or basically stop a potential intruder from coming into your residence.  A home alarm system is always a terrific option to take into consideration with the rest of these tips.

 

The first thing you will want to do is examine your home from the outside.  Make sure your home is well lit.  Motion sensors are one way to go however a home with lightening that is substantial and always on.  Another thing to look for his potential hiding spots close to all the doors and windows.  If you spot an issue on the outside of your home than be for sure a burglar will take advantage of that.  A seasoned burglar looks for ways in to your home. Your job is to make sure that they are all well lit.  Why?  A well lit yard is a burglar’s worst enemy, darkness is its friend.

 

It is important that you think of ways that you can slow a potential intruder’s entrance into your home.  Simple home security measures help along with the use of home alarm systems.  The addition of deadbolts on the homes doors is an important step to take.  Another element is to add a solid bracket inside of all door walls.  These elements help to deter potential intruders and at the very least will slow them down.  The more time it takes for them to enter the home the more discouraged they will become and since time is of the essence this is important.

Another element like light that acts is a deterrent is noise.  Choosing a home security alarm that is activated by doors and windows opening or by any motion is effective.  The alarms that are the most efficient at turning intruders away are loud noises such as a barking dog whether real or a recording is most effective.

 

The three most successful tips and biggest enemies to burglars are light, noise and time.  If you put these home security tips into place you are helping to prevent any possible break-ins.  Here are a few other ways you can help yourself.

 

  • Don’t display valuables in view of people on the outside.  It is temptation to some people.  Consider putting items of great value that are on the smaller side in a safe.  Many safes can be made to look like common everyday items, these are called diversion safes.
  • Implore the people in your community to begin a neighborhood watch.  Anyone who is a stranger will stick out like a sore thumb.  With a neighborhood watch in place the police will be notified when someone suspicious is in the area.
  • Anytime you leave your home on an overnight trip or extended vacation make your home look occupied.  Use lights on varied timers so that they all go off at different times each and every night.  Televisions and radios can also be set on timers to make it appears as if you are home even when you are not.
  • Lock all doors and windows even when gone for brief periods of time.  This is especially important during the summer.  A huge temptation for thieves is open windows and garages.

 

A few simple changes can make a world of difference in making your home less intrusive.  Begin with an assessment of your home.  Create a well lit, secure home that detours intruders from making your belongings theirs.

All Star Alarm

Seniors At Home Living Safely With Handicap Modifications

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When life deals a blow to the quality of life one is leading what can be done to keep and create independence in the home environment. The fact that we or someone we know will become disabled at some point or another is a vast reality.  How the event is handled to ensure that proper care is given to the home environment to will depend on the severity of the disability and the time frame of which the individual’s life will be affected.  When looking at people handling handicap disabilities or elderly individuals the prognosis is more severe and more permanent renovations need to be planned for independence within the home environment to be established.

The first question that usually arises is a question about whether or not it would be easier to move or modify the existing home.  It is important to remember that most individuals will probably want to live and retire within their own home rather than move to a facility that offers assisted living situations. Most homes will have to go through modifications and renovations to become modified for safety.

Seniors at home are more likely to hold on to their independent desire leading them to stay more physically active, leading longer lives.  The same is true for individuals living with a handicap.  Accessible living solutions and an abundance of home safety equipment in the market place make handicap construction a feasible option for almost everyone.

One of the first steps in making a home wheelchair accessible is on the outside.  Handicap/wheelchair ramps, which are also useful for walkers and scooters, are the most desired additions individuals desire when research handicap construction contractors for their homes. Another key area where safety is at a premium and needs attention is home modifications to the bathrooms.  Bathroom safety solutions and aides can be purchased and installed for maximum safety throughout the homes bathroom.

Mobility is a premium we take for granted until we have it no longer.  When injury, old age or illness that leaves us handicapped the need for independence does not dwindle.  It is important no matter our age or levels of maneuverability we still have a desire for privacy and the ability to do things for ourselves.   Handicap construction allows this to be accomplished within our home environment.

Accessible solutions within the home are found in simple adjustments to the width of doorways and halls.  Simplicity can be found for opening doors and cupboards using open pull handles and lever instead of round hard to grasp knobs. Another accessible home solution that is often overlooked is the removal of carpet and the installation of tile or wood to allow for wheelchairs, scooters and walkers to move freely.  Outside wheelchair accessible ramps and walkways can be installed for ease of entering and exiting the home and enjoying the outside environment.

Simple home solutions allow individuals the quality of life that is so important.  Without independence we rely solely upon others for our care. This is not the most feasible option for people in the society we function in.  Even when struggling with a debilitating illness, a handicap or aging we still desire freedom.  Freedom comes from not having to rely upon others for your care.  This is what handicap construction and modifications to the home can provide for you or a loved one.

Accessible Alterations

Protecting Your Investment By Choosing The Right Roofing Material

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Have you ever wondered why we have to have a roofing material barrier over the plywood that makes up a roof?  Yes, it gives a finished look to a home as does it counterpart for the sides of the house, siding.   The main reason we have roofing systems consisting of more than plywood is to create a barrier against the natural elements. Without the barrier present the elements would wreak havoc on the homes structure.  Water is the most intrusive natural element and the one most roofing materials are made to withstand.

To accomplish protection against the natural elements as well as the human elements the roofing material must protect the underlayment.  In order for this to happen the observable roofing material must withstand stresses presented by nature and man.  Industry standards have been put into place and tested to ensure the quality and life expectancy of a variety of roofing materials including; asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, metal roofing, concrete tiles, clay tiles and a variety of other materials now present in roofing.

Weather in the Michigan varies a great deal.  Roofing needs to withstand hail, wind, extreme temperatures varying from intense heat to extreme cold, snow, ice and the various freeze/melt scenarios of present in Michigan.  As with everything involving your home it is important to research the materials you are considering for your roofing need and determine for your environment what is going to be the most cost effective material to use to provide a weather proof barrier for your homes roof.

Below is a list of roofing materials commonly used in Michigan to choose from:

–          Inexpensive and straight forwarded installation

–          Has a high fire resistance rating

–          Is available in different class levels for a variety of weather situations

–          Wind warranties that withstand one hundred thirty mile an hour winds

–          Easy to repair if damage occurs

–          Long lasting and needs to be replaced less frequently than other materials

–          Available in high fire resistant ratings and class ratings to withstand fire and weather

–          Metal material is lightweight and durable

–          Easy to repair if damage happens to occur

Anyone that has owned a home knows that you pour your life savings into it.  Between the interior, exterior and the worldly possessions found inside the amount of time, energy and money put in is irreplaceable.  This is why choosing the right roofing material for your home is so important.

Not only is choosing the right material important but also the right installation company.  Finding a professional in your area should come fairly easy; selecting one however might be a tad bit more difficult.  Follow the steps below and you should be able to find a reliable, trustworthy roofing contractor.

  • Find a contractor that has a permanent place of business.  This should include a phone number, tax id and is licensed.
  • Ask to see a copy of the insurance contract the company has.  It is important in finding a reputable roofing contractor that they are responsible and liable for accidents with his employees that happen while working on your roof.
  • It is important to also find a roofing contractor that maintains financially stability.  You as a consumer have the right to ask for information relating to this.
  • Work with a contractor that has references that can vouch for the work the company provides and the manner in which his employees work.
  • Always get a written contract for the services that are to be performed in detail.  This should include the materials, type and quantity to be used in your install.
  • A contractor should be able to also explain how much he works on your project verse has employees to assist.  You should know if he is a supervisor only or if he has a crew with a supervisor for each individual roofing project.
  • Carefully read the warranties that are provided on the materials the professional roofing contractor is recommending be used on your roofing project.
  • Look especially careful into bids that are way below industry norms.  If is sounds too good to be true it probably is.

Home Pro Roofing MI

Natural Elements Used In Window Treatments

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Where can help be found when starting to think about the perfect window treatments?  Whether you are looking for curtains, blinds, shades, valances or curtain rods there is help online.  If you are looking to re-do one or twenty window coverings the best source for ideas and up to date style information is through the internet.  Another value online shopping presents is the ability to find exactly what you are looking for, recreate it and at the best price possible.  All the information sits at your fingertips.

Window treatments, especially blinds and shades are becoming as much a part of a home’s interior design as any other feature.  Rooms are not built around one specific piece of furniture any longer.  Instead the room is being pulled together using many key elements including window treatments.  This does not mean that everything has to match but instead coordinate and compliment.  Which brings me to the unique attributes now found within window treatments.

When contemplating window treatments many people picture one of two things; blinds or curtains.  This has been the case in the past in regards to window décor but not anymore.  With the use of a range of materials window treatments have been given a completely new purpose.  It is no longer the norm to stick with heavy floral curtains that scream grandma’s house but instead environmental materials are adding texture and emphasis to a home’s windows.   Eco-friendly materials such as grass, bamboo, jute and paper are introducing a new natural elegance to room décor and interior design.

Natural materials work for many different window treatments and decors.  Rooms are not defined by the window treatment of choice yet enhanced.  If your style lends itself more to country, back woods lodge, modern, contemporary or exclusive high end there is something available to meet your desire.  Bamboo blinds & shades, natural woven wood blinds & shades and honeycomb cellular blinds & shades are amongst the most popular options.  If you can dream it there is a window treatment out there to make it happen.

Where should a homeowner begin when deciding upon window treatments?  The first thing to determine is if a hard or soft window treatment option is desired.  Maybe even a combination of the two is what will work for the function and style desired within the space.

  • Hard Window Treatments:  This includes any treatment that contains a hard material such as wood or vinyl.  Some examples include window shades and blinds as well as shutters.
  • Soft Window Treatments: This includes any treatment that contains soft materials such as sheers, curtains, drapery, swags and valances.  Roman shades are often included in this category.
  • Combination of Hard and Soft Window Treatments:  This is a combination of the two on one window.  This can be a very hard look to install and should be done so using careful precise measurements.  Valances and window blinds are often used in combination as well as sheer curtains and vinyl room darkening shades where light is an issue such as a bedroom.

Comfort Blinds

Medicare Supplemental Health Insurance Resources Online

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When looking into health insurance of any kind the rules, regulations and stipulations often make it so that every word on the policy seems foreign and a bit sketchy.  The policy is never laid on it terms that one without industry knowledge would completely understand.  Words such as co-payment, deductible, family allowance, preventative vs. routine care often times add confusion in really understanding what is being offered.  Health Insurance in general is difficult to understand and often leads us to believe we are being manipulated let alone getting into the next generation of health insurance, Medicare.  How is one to determine exactly what is being offered and to finally settle upon a policy that best fits the need with Medicare and Medigap supplemental insurance policies?

One way to gain information on recent updates and current information on Medicare and Medigap is online.  Although the internet is a terrific source of information people often find that they would like to speak with someone to make sure what they understand is exactly what is meant.  Many companies will offer information online along with a telephone number to speak with advisors who will offer guidance into the technical aspects of what is being offered.

This is especially important when it comes to Medicare Supplemental Insurance aka: Medigap Supplemental Insurance. Many insurance companies offer supplemental insurance plans for Medicare.  The one thing to remember is that with all Medicare and Medigap policies the coverage will be the exact same no matter where it is purchased.  The prices will vary due to the company sponsoring the plan.  When you purchase Medicare supplemental insurance plan g or Medicare supple insurance plan n the coverage at one company will be the exact same as another.  The difference will be the cost of the policy and this can be varied do to the level of service offered.

The great thing about many online companies is that they offer clients to compare Medicare supplemental insurance rates and plans offered by multiple insurance companies without offering up any personal information.  These same sites often offer the chance to buy Medigap supplemental insurance through them acting as a facilitator in getting you the best supplemental insurance rate and coverage to fit your exact need.  They offer online support as well as assistance free help over the phone.  Advisors that are up to date on all topics related to Medicare will assist you in obtaining the right coverage for your need at a desirable price.

Medigap Plan G, Plan F and Plan N are currently the most popular option amongst Medicare recipients.  When considering a plan that will work for your situation it is important to look at everything that is covered by the plan and as well as what is not covered. We will take a look into just one of the many Medicare supplemental plans, plan N.

Medigap supplemental insurance plan N offers one feature that many people find incredibly important in their Medicare Health Coverage; it covers the twenty percent of the doctor and hospital bills left over from traditional Medicare coverage.  The twenty percent that is covered has no limit and is often astronomical when talking about major illness or injury.  Take for instance a one hundred thousand dollar procedure.  Medicare traditionally covers eighty thousand and the recipient is left to cover the other twenty percent on his or her own. Medigap supplemental insurance plan N would be one of the many Medigap plans that cover this extra expense.  In addition plan N covers the part A yearly deductible.

However plan N does not cover the Medicare plan B deductible.  It also uses a method known as cost-sharing when handling doctor’s office visits.  This would that you either pay twenty percent or twenty dollars whichever is less when going in for an office visit.  With this plan there is also an additional out of pocket co-pay due for emergency room visits.

With any plan the options will need to be weighed.  The benefits and drawbacks should be looked at with a cost analysis to determine what scenarios are most likely to occur in your life.  Medicare supplemental insurance plans are enough different that a plan should be a best fit for your Medicare health insurance needs.

Senior Health Direct