Livingston Reporting - page 316

Slow and Steady SEO Techniques That Are Sure To Get Your Site Ranked

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The changes that have occurred throughout Google and other prominent search engines has made many people start to question the way they are doing search engine optimization.  Again, it is one of those arenas in life where the old adages revolved around the phrase slow and steady wins the race continues to hold true.

Many search engine companies tried several different techniques to quickly rank within Google.  Many of these techniques had adverse affects on the sites they were promoting.  Some techniques Google frowned upon were using articles that had been spun into several different versions and placed throughout the internet using automated posting sites.  This was getting sites multiple links quickly but the links were not quality and ended up cluttering the web with information that was basically junk.

Two things were seen as improper by Google, spun articles and illegal posting.  The way Google wants site to go about getting recognized is by naturally building links for the site with quality links, linking quality information to your site.  Hand submitted articles to multiple sites over a period of time will get your site recognized and ranked well.  Submitting to an overabundance of sites will not work towards the goal.  Again it is important to remind search engine professionals that slow and steady is truly the best route when looking to maximize the results within Google and other prominent search engines.

Another key element when designing websites and having exceptional results within search engines is to maintain your existence within directories and forums.  This will take time.  Directories are time consuming to post company information with as you will need to seek out reputable directories in industries related to your online business.  The same is true when entering the arena of online forums and chats.  To effectively manage them it takes time.

When first building a site key elements within the back end of the site become critical when trying to maximize the results of your search engine placement.  The title, description and keywords work best when tied directly into the text on the site.  Google will rank your site higher than sites where the Meta tags are not used in conjunction with the text within each page.  This actually works for the benefit of keyword maximization within the site.  Each page can be set aside to maximize a new keyword or phrase.

Another technique that is effective in maximizing sites search ability is to build on to the site regularly.  People do this in many forms.  One way to do this is with the use of a blog page.  Properly done this is an effective way to show Google that you are constantly updating the information on your site which will make you more credible.

Another option that is along the same lines as above is maximizing the cities that you are working in with pages devoted to them.  A page focused on a particular area give a draw to the subject keyword and the focused city.  To me this is one of the best ways to grow your site and bring focus to the individual counties and or cities you wish to focus your business on.  If you are working on delivering a product or service to a national market the same notion can be achieved building pages based upon each of the fifty states.

Search engine optimization is not an internet fad.  It is something real and something that is here to stay.  Once your site has been shunned by Google or black listed your search engine work will double.  It is better to pass on the fads and stick with the basics; hard work, persistence and again a slow and steady race will be won.

Creative Programs and Systems

Reason To Hire A Handicap Accessible Ramp Installation Professional

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Adding a handicap accessible ramp to your home is a project best left to the pros.  This is true whether you are looking to put in place a custom wood ramp designed with a current porch space in mind or a more temporary aluminum ramp solution.  Handicap ramp installation is a job for the professionals.  It is difficult to properly install and build a handicap accessible ramp without complete knowledge of what needs to done.  This helps to maximize the ramps usability and safety for the user.

When a handicap ramp contractor first meets with you to talk about what your need is in regards to adding a ramp onto the entrance they will already be well aware of the ADA requirements.  This can be tricky for an amateur ramp designer.  The other thing that professionals bring to the table is that they are well versed in the laws surrounding the addition of a ramp to the home.  They have experience working with the city and will be able to determine right away if the site is compatible with certain designs and if not will be able to suggest what will work.

Professional ramp contractors come to the home with the necessary skills to start planning for the ramp.  Many do it yourself type people rely on the “wing it” method.  This will not work in regards to a handicap ramps and the safety of your loved one.  Ramps installers come prepared to put a drawing together of what is needed.  They also take into account when digging is required and are able to notify the proper authorities to get the property surveyed for gas lines, power lines and other electrical wires.

Handicap ramps are a bit tricky to design and implement.  When they are being designed around an existing dwelling it is especially difficult.  Professionals are able to look at the details in regards to the wheelchair accessible ramp and design it with the ADA guidelines for the maximum run length, landing space, leveling, hand rail requirements and minimum and maximum widths of openings and landings. This is a lot of information for a novice to perfect for inspectors who will be ensuring the viability of the ramp.

Budgeting is also something to consider when looking at having a ramp installed.  Professional ramp installation companies will give you multiple quotes to consider before settling in on a particular type.  Remember, certain materials will need more care to maintain.  If you are considering a wooden handicap ramp to be installed it will need to be treated and cared for after the initial installation.  Also consider if your area is wet or snowy you will have to accommodate with traction at key points throughout the ramp.

Having a ramp installed on your home is a new adventure for most homeowners.  If you are unsure of exactly what you are looking for as the installers for pictures of work that has previously been done by him for inspiration.  Homeowners can also seek ideas from neighbors who have had ramps built.  Ramps are a project often too complicate for the average homeowner.  Seriously consider hiring a professional in for this age in place renovation. 

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Preparations For The Home When Caring For Aging Parents

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

With the costs associated with various assisted living communities and retirement facilities it is becoming infeasible to consider this option for many seniors.  There is a rise of seniors aging in place, continuing to live within their homes with modifications, and moving in with their adult children to care for them.  With this rise in at home care there are certain adjustments to the home that need to be made to ensure the safety of elderly parents.

Whether you are moving your parents in to your home or they are staying in theirs things to consider change as they grow even older.  At first it might not be apparent that an adjustment in how they enter and exit the home is needed.  However as they age and their needs change it is possible that the entrance will need to be equipped with a handicap accessible ramp.  These ramps can be temporary or permanent and come in a variety of materials. You can purchase custom aluminum wheelchair ramps or have a custom built wooden handicap ramp installed.  Handicap ramps allow seniors ease of access whether on foot, using a walker, cane or in a wheelchair.

Another area of great concern for aging parents is the bathroom area.  Privacy is still a large concern for them and this space should allow for independent ease of access.  There are several ways to update accessibility in a bathroom wither permanent or temporary.  If you are looking to make permanent changes a barrier free shower with a seating area is a wonderful upgrade.  Another upgrade that needs to be made is the use of grab bars and safety rails.  It is also important to install a raised toilet or raised seat over the toilet.  Getting up from a seated position is difficult as we age. Remember space around the sink needs to be easily accessed as well.

If an aging parent is moving into your home consider it is imperative to set up a space for them to escape to.  Remember aging does not come easily for them either.  They have become set in their ways and adjusted to quiet and personal space; moving in with an adult child was not what they had planned either.  Turn a larger room in the home into a bedroom area with seating, a television, phone and possibly a small refrigerator.  This way when they are ready to retreat they are able to.

It is important to make sure the home is as free of hazards as possible.  Mobility issues become ever more visible as we age.  Throw rugs and rough transitions can all turn into tripping dangers. This is even truer if a walker is in use within the home.

Aging in place is an incredibly common option in elder care nowadays.  If you know this is what you are hoping for when it comes to your loved ones consider guiding their home renovations in this direction as they begin to age within their own homes.  The same will be true within your own space. If you know a parent living with you is in the cards eventually it is best to make the small changes and upgrade gradually as you are renovation currently.

Barrier free home renovations are a valuable when it comes to the resale value of a home as well. The accommodations that can be made within the space are incredible and can be done without bring attention to the fact they are being done for elder care.  Age in place modifications can be done in a sleek, custom manner that prevents the home from looking as if it is a care facility.  It is amazing what a licensed professional in barrier free remodeling can do to transform your accommodations for elder care.

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Meeting Your Health Care Needs With Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Having quality medical insurance is an absolute must in the world we live in today. The cost of medical care keeps going up and the coverage offered down.  The result, many people decide that insurance is an added benefit that they can do without.  The result of this becomes families and seniors left uninsured leave financial futures in disrepair.  It is important to take control and manage your health insurance, including seniors and Medicare.

Many seniors think that they will be denied health care coverage due to health concerns that are pre-existing conditions.  This is a misconception.  Medicare coverage is guaranteed coverage regardless of your current health condition.  It is also important to remember that Medicare does not charge extra high premiums either even if you come in the worst health imaginable you will get Medicare coverage if you are sixty-five or older and meet the requirements set forth.

One thing to remember with that all being said is that Medicare does not cover everything you will need in regards to health care coverage.  Medicare Part A and B cover the basics, hospital and doctors coverage.  Medicare supplemental insurance is provided for sale to cover the extras.  Yes, supplemental insurance does have a monthly premium involved but remember this cost of insurance is much less that it will cost you if and when something occurs and you are uninsured.

The question remains though of how do you find out which Medicare supplemental policy will meet your needs while being cost effective on covering the extra expenses.  Finding the information you need to help you make a decision about the policy and coverage best suited for you is very important.  If you end up making the wrong decision about the coverage you choose you might find that you are not covered when you really need it.  Thankfully there are companies available online that help you compare rates, view policy information and insurance companies without providing personal information.

It is important to take your individual situation into need when choosing your policy.  For instance if you are a traveling senior it is important to have coverage that covers you whether you are out of the state or country.  This is where you would look for a supplemental policy that covers you outside of your home network.

Another example of finding your Medicare supplemental insurance policy that works for you is to take into consideration co-pays and deductibles.  If you are an individual that sees the doctor often for office visits you will want to see which policy within Medicare supplemental policy will alleviate this out of pocket cost for you.

All insurance, including Medicare is often easy to misunderstand the coverage completely.  This is one reason people get so upset when it comes to medical insurance and coverage.  Before any procedure if you are unsure of what is covered and what our-of-pocket expenses will need to be accommodated for so that you can financially prepare.  Finding the best health care coverage, be it Medicare or individual insurance, takes a bit or research including asking the right questions to ensure you are getting the most coverage at the best premium possible.

Senior Health Direct

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Save Your Financial Future By Purchasing Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is amazing how simple everyday adventures can turn a seemingly normal life into a mess.  This is especially true to each and every person that gambles with their health insurance coverage including senior citizens.  Medicare supplemental insurance is necessary in conjunction with your Medicare Part A and B.

Medicare Part A is basic hospital coverage.  Part A limits coverage to inpatient care within the hospital, hospice and home health care.  Medicare Part B helps provide the medically necessary services such as doctors’ services, outpatient care along with some preventative services.  It is obvious to see why Medicare supplemental insurance is necessary.  There are many holes that are left that leave seniors susceptible to financial troubles.  Living on a set budget does not take into consideration those things not covered by insurance.

Remember that there is more to the actual cost of Medicare than the initial premiums for Medicare Part A and B. You will have co-pays and uncovered office visits to cover.  This is where the different options in Medicare supplemental insurances come into play.  Medicare supplemental plans and policies help to cover deductible and co-pays.  Each policy offers different coverage options.  You will want to determine what policy will work best for your situation.

One way to compare the different Medicare supplemental insurance is online.  Online you can look at the different policy options available and compare the coverage and costs associated with it.  You will also be able to determine which private insurance companies offer the insurance you are looking for at a price you are willing to pay.

The one thing to be cautioned about is paying for the Medicare premiums with credit cards.  This is a dangerous practice to get started in. Paying the premiums with a credit card raises the cost you pay by adding interest and fees.  It is better to have premiums withdrawn from your account to pay the cost of the Medicare supplemental plan at the time it is due and withdrawn from your checking account.

It is also important to remember that the bills need to be examined to ensure that everything has been applied correctly.  If something comes to you as a shock you should call and inquire about the charges.  This is true with prescription drugs.  Always ask for generic versions of the medicine that is needed.  Also check as different pharmacies have different costs associated with the cost of the drug.

It is also in your best interest to reevaluate the Medicare supplemental plan you have chosen each and every year.  It is important to check out the new policies and what current plans are still available.  If you know your needs are changing now is the time to take care of them.  When open enrollment comes along, review your health insurance plans and needs.  This can save you money from paying extra for benefits you don’t need.

Medicare supplemental insurance can save your financial future.  With seniors on a limited income any outside expensive can truly send their finances into a tizzy.  This is why having coverage that will control the amount of extra out of pocket expenses you have if there is medical need.

 

Senior Health Direct

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Easing Mobility Challenges With Age In Place Remodeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As expected the trend for seniors continuing to live in their own homes as they age is on the rise.  Seniors are not willing to sacrifice their independent living so easily these days.  The option of managed care, assisted living and moving in with adult children is not appealing to the aging generation in 2012.  With all of the available options within the home improvement industry to help create safe, barrier free living environments who can blame them.

Many adult children are also seeing the benefits of allowing their aging parents to remain within their own homes.  Fostering independence keeps seniors active, mobile and excited about living life, things that often become stagnate when venturing into a care facility.  It also allows a more manageable approach to caring for aging parents.  It does not become a burden to any one sibling and their family.

Age in place remodeling starts with small tweaks that can be made as rooms are naturally remodeled in the course of home remodeling. This makes the transition into barrier free living simpler.  Simple steps such as updating faucet handles as well as door pulls and levers can make accessing rooms and cupboards easy for aging hands.  Plus this type of renovation is non-invasive and really can be done slowly as home updates are being made.

It is really beneficial for homeowners of all ages to start incorporating universal designs into their home improvements, creating a unique stylish home that is safe and comfortable for years to come.  Below are some items to consider when planning home renovations.

  • One issue to consider is the width of doorways and the homes hallways.  In new construction you will often see hallways that are substantially wider than homes built earlier.  This helps to give homes a more open feel.  Wider hallways keep the home from feeling tight and closed in.  Another benefit for barrier free living is that mobility devices such as walkers, wheelchairs and canes are able to be used without worry.  The same is true with doorways that are widened.  It allows for easy turns to be made in and out of rooms.
  • Ramps are another update being made to homes today.  I know you instantly imagine hospital ramps when I say that but today ramps are incredibly stylish and versatile.  Not at all like the aluminum hospital style ramps, ramps today are made of a variety of materials including aluminum, wood and mixed metals.  Stairs can also be designed along side of ramp systems as not to hinder those wanting the use of stairs as well.  It is best to make the actual step a bit wider and about seven inches high for ease of use and safety.
  • The bathroom is one of the most important areas of the home for privacy and independence.  Special care should be sought out when designing the space.  Consider adding a shower that does not involve stepping in.  Barrier free surrounds are available or for a more sophisticated approach you can use textured tiles to surround the shower areas, add a built in bench and soap dishes left at a lower height.
  • Another issue in the bathroom area is often the actual toilet itself.  It is best to replace the toilet with a toilet that is taller than an average commode.  This is a great way not to single out the user.  Many aides for the bathroom are invasive and really public as they are used over the actual toilet.  This is often embarrassing for the user.  Higher toilets with added grab bars give a more attractive, less institutional feel to a bathroom area.

There are many stylish updates to the home that you can make to improve your home to help create an independent, barrier free living environment.  As your parents start to age and you see them remodeling hint to them that some of the above can be put into place keeping the home stylish yet upgrading the safety for them.  Seniors and those losing their mobility will benefit from the unsterilized look and feel of their home.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

A Guide In Choosing An Engagement Ring She Will Love

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When considering asking someone to marry you often one of the first items to consider is an engagement ring purchase. So many things go into making sure you purchase a ring she will adore for a lifetime.  There are some basic steps to fool when embarking on this magnificent journey.   Here are some basic things to consider before stepping foot into a jewelry store.

First things first, consider how much you are willing to budget for this expense. Traditionally people have thought that the ring you choose for your bride to be is to cost the equivalent of two months’ salary.  This is traditional approach is not necessarily the approach all grooms to be take to heart.  Set a reasonable budget that is realistic to what you personally can afford.  Remember if your purchase a ring on credit you will have that debt on top of wedding debt starting of your married life.  It is best to wait until you have saved enough to purchase the ring of your dreams for her.

Your soon to be bride will wear this one piece of jewelry for the rest of her life.  It is important that you put a lot of time into researching her likes and dislikes when it comes to jewelry.  Of course the more inconspicuous you make this the better the surprise in the end.  Often times the best advice will come from people close to her.  You may consider enlisting help from her parents or close friends to help you by asking them to take her out on the town and accidentally meander into a jeweler.  She is for sure to be drawn right to the styles she considers worthy.

Another thing to consider is your taste.  Remember that you will most likely be purchasing matching wedding bands later on down the road.  If you despise gold jewelry it is best not to purchase a gold engagement ring.  These are the little aspects of choosing an engagement ring that need to be considered before making the purchase.

Popular and unique engagement ring options for contemporary brides range quite a bit.  One option to consider is the simple, classic single solitaire diamond engagement ring.  This is often the safest purchase if you are completely unsure of what style your bride would like the best.  This option allows her to add a frame for the ring of her choice.

Another option that is also a popular choice is a single diamond set in a setting with minor decorations.  The main characteristic of the ring is still the large center diamond however designs are added around the ring as decoration.  The ring could entail more diamonds or other gemstones that your bride is fond of.

On top of antique engagement ring settings and the new halo engagement rings that are present and popular a classic setting is a trilogy ring.  This is one of the personal favorites for brides in my family.  The three stone setting represents the past-present and future of your relationship.  The most common cut of stones within this setting are solitaire.

The bottom line in choosing a piece of jewelry for your bride to be is to make sure you have added thought to the purchase.  Every bride appreciated this.  Also be honest with yourself.  If you can tell immediately that she is not absolutely in love with your choice take her and together look at the options.  In the end most times than not she will get to the store and realize you did indeed make the right choice and will walk out with the same ring she walked in with.

DaRoche Jewelers

Should Homeowners Replace or Repair Their Roof

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeownership is costly.  You don’t only have to think about the monthly mortgage payment and taxes consider the amount of cash that goes into repairing issues that sprout up.  One common issue amongst homeowners is whether to replace an entire roof or if you can repair the existing roof.  A roof is one of those places also that until the damage is visually evident you don’t know it has occurred.  Below you will find common signs that your roof has been damaged and helpful advice to determine if you can get by with a repair or if it is time to seek out a professional roofing contractor.

The first issue is visual buckling.  This issue occurs when the roof has not been properly installed or ventilated correctly.  Another reason this occurs is when the roofing shingles have been applied to the new roof without removing older shingles first.  When buckling occurs to your roof in several places it is more than likely in need of replacing.  When the buckling occurs in only one spot it can be repaired.

Another common sign of roof damage is a tad more obvious.  If you find shingles in your yard you have a problem.  If there is an excessive amount of loose shingles you should contact a professional immediately to come out and fix the roof.  If not caught and taken care of early in the game you will need a whole new roof.

This happened to us when we purchased our home.  We noticed a spot in the ceiling in my sons room sagging.  We thought some damage had occurred and we would just replace that spot of drywall. The fix was of course not that simple.  The leak was actually coming from a spot where the roof came together as was not properly sealed allowing water to flow in.  Check your attic often this is where the first visual clues of a leaky roof will appear.  You should be able to repair the spot and take care of the issue without needing an entire new roof.

If you start to see some of the shingles on your home become discolored you most likely have an issue that needs a professional to be hired to treat the roof.  Most discoloration comes from the appearance of algae and moss growth.  You need your roof to be moisture resistant to avoid leaks.  A professional can come in treat the growths and seal the roof from moisture to avoid further complications.

Rotting shingles are a good sign that other areas below the roof are rotting as well.  This is a severe case and one in which you should seek out a professional roof installation company to come in, remove the old roof and install a brand new roof in its place. This will prevent damage to the inside structure of your home.  If not caught and dealt with early you could be looking at also replacing support beams throughout the attic.

Roofs are an important piece of your home.  If not kept up on roofing problems can lead to big dollars spent fixing damage that could have been prevented or maintained.  Most roofing contractors are more than happy to come out and offer a free quote to fix damage before you commit to an entire new roof.

 

 

Home Pro Roofing MI

Reasonable Home Improvements To Add Value

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Improving our home is always top of mind.  To us home improvements don’t mean we have to completely overhaul a room or the entire house.  We don’t even always take on major tasks like replacing tile, carpet or painting often we take on simpler more inexpensive fixes.  Even simple things like adding some fresh flowers, plants or art can completely liven and change a space.  Read on for simple pick me ups for your home.

Let’s start in the living room.  Our room has a ton of windows and doors letting in major amounts of natural light but often appears to be a bit dark.  There are several fixes to our problem.  Some more major than others.  We considered adding skylights which is a bit costly but helps save on electricity bills in the long run for we would not have to have lamps lightening the space.

Another option that is reasonable is to lighten the color paint we have on the wall.  We tend to stick with beige which is neutral but a color such as yellow can add warmth and bring coziness to a space. Another option we have considered is replacing the dark wood furniture in the space with lighter colored furniture or coating it with white paint.  Lots of options are available to add light to a space.

Next we move on to the kitchen.  So much happens in this area of anyone’s home. It is a central hub for families and friends to gather.  Improving on a space such as this is to add function, coziness without deleting spaciousness and functionality.  Adding built ins can really improve a kitchen space.  One example is the microwave.   Having this item stacked above the stove instead of on a counter adds a tremendous amount of space.

Another great tip for the kitchen is to add an overhang from the counter tops for a mini-meal space.  Bar stools are convenient ways to add seating without taking up space in a situation like this.  I also like adding in a fresh herb assortment to add a fresh feel.  Instead of using a counter add mason jars on shelves or hooks with the herbs growing from them.  This can really improve the feel of a kitchen.

Home improvements aren’t always necessarily items that we can immediately see.  Adding insulation to improve the heating and cooling performance of your homes air conditioning system and home heating system are great examples of this.  Adding energy efficient appliances as well as heating and cooling units save you money over the long haul which is a huge improvement to your home and can increase the home’s value tremendously in the eyes of future buyers.

Home improvements come in all shapes, sizes and budgets. How you improve your home and why is up to you.  Some people are updating and upgrading for resale value only.  Others want to make their homes cozy havens to relax and enjoy.  Whatever the reason for your next home improvement, big or small, remember the end result will make it all worth the effort put into it.

 

Airtronic Heating and Cooling

Tips For Lacking Interior Design

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Interior design creativity is not a gift that we are all born with.  I for one don’t have the makings of a world renowned designer.  What I do have is the ability to start with a base coat that is simple and then from there add to it.  I am not ever going to be one for color on the wall; beige is as bold as I go.  My couches and chairs are all in the brown, beige family and are solid colors. I do however have what it takes to add charm without breaking the bank or making my home impersonal.  Continue on to find some wonderful tips to help design the interior of your home today.

One of the first things I do is to peruse magazines.  I don’t subscribe to any however the library close to us keeps a good selection in stock and I do regularly find some that have been shared in the local swap box.  This is a great tip to save money on magazine subscriptions that can really add up quickly.

Another tip I take into consideration is dividing spaces into functioning places for our family.  This means that one room may have several separate groupings of furniture to give each space its own purpose.  The latest space we used this technique was our son’s room.  It is a rather small space.  With the help of a loft we were able to box off his bed and make it a fort setting leaving the bottom under it to be utilized.  We used it as a space for his school work and a place to stash a bean bag and small table with a light for when he feels like reading or playing on his laptop.  We took his closet and made it into a complete dressing area with a space for his clothes and personal care items along with a mirror.  This way he can shower and come in to his room to take care of his grooming needs.  His space is small but serves several purposes for him.

Another designing on a dime tip I have to offer is to choose something in each space to be a focal point.  I like to use book shelves, fireplaces, art and windows.  Arrange the room around this object and you will find that symmetry happens almost automatically.

When I design a space within my home around a window as the room’s focal point I often use layering in the window treatment options I choose.  This always adds class and coziness to the space.  It is also a great way to mix materials and colors giving the room a more dynamic feel.  Window treatments also help to control the amount of light an area receives.

Remember also that you don’t have to have window treatment that fit neatly into a packaged space any more.  When using curtains the sky is the limit.  I have seen small windows surrounding by beautiful window treatments that turn the space into more of an art showcase.  The truth is that window treatments are one of my favorite methods to transform a space. They are usually inexpensive, easy to install and make a huge statement.

Not everyone is a creative genius when it comes to interior design.  I know I am for sure not.  What I am good at is looking for inspiration everywhere.  Take pictures and jot ideas down as you come about them.  I have a portfolio filled with things I like and as I redo and update spaces in the house I pull the portfolio out to see what can and cannot be used in the space.  It is easy to copy other geniuses!

 

 

Comfort Blinds