Month: May 2015

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Best preschool in coral gables Coral gables camps Private elementary schools in coral gables

How to Find the Perfect Preschool

Schools in coral gables

Choosing the best preschool can be a daunting task for parents. There are so many important things to consider. Public or private? What kind of educational philosophy should they embody? Should it be all day or part time? The questions can go on and on, so narrowing down to the most important factors is important. To learn more about the five most important questions to think for finding a good preschool, keep reading.
1) Public or Private? When deciding whether or not to pursue private preschool, you should consider a number of factors. First, is there a high performing private preschool in your area? Sometimes, elementary or middle private schools do not actually offer preschool, so you will want to make sure it is an option. Further, consider some of the potential benefits of private preschool. About 80% of private schools are religiously affiliated, so if this is important to you family, private preschool may definitely be the way to go.
2) Is it Close to Home? When figuring out how to find a preschool, you should definitely think local. There are almost 31,000 private preschools in the United States, so more than likely, there is one in your neighborhood. When your child is very young, as they are in preschool, it is especially nice to have them close to home to ease in transportation and make you more available when your child needs you.
3) Does it Offer Extracurricular Activities? It’s never too early for you to start thinking about extracurricular opportunities for your child. One of the benefits of preschool is allowing your child to improve their social skills and learn about the world outside of your home and family. Selecting a school that amplifies these opportunities is ideal.
4) Does it Make You Feel Comfortable? For parents, this is often one of the most important questions. Even though it is not tangible and it is not something you can just research online, it is absolutely essential that your child’s preschool makes you feel comfortable. You will be entrusting them to care for and nurture your child for a several hours every day, and if you feel safe about that arrangement, it will make the experience better for both you and your children.
5) Does the Teaching Philosophy Make Sense for Your Child? Each day, more than 5 million children throughout the United States attend preschool. Each one of those 5 million students has individual strengths and learning needs. You know your child best and have a keen insight into how they learn. Look for a program that capitalizes on your child’s strengths and provides instruction in a way they will respond to.
It is scary for every parent to select the right preschool for their child. Using the five questions above to help guide their search will make the process a little less intimidating and support their ability to focus on what is really important.

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Commercial mortgages Local mortgage lenders Mortgage lender chattanoonga tn

Three Pieces of Advice on How to Attract the Best Home Lenders

Best online mortgage lenders

Although the word “mortgage” comes from the Middle Ages (it means “death pledge” in Old French, referring to the borrower’s pledge to remain on his property until he dies), the idea of a mortgage goes back way further in time. One of the oldest records of mortgage law, for example, is called the Manusmrti. At least 2,000 years old, the Manusmrti or “Code of Manu” lays out ethical lending practices and calls out unethical ones. Though much has changed since ancient times, mortgages are still around and aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

The best mortgage lenders tend to favor the borrowers who show the best signs of maturity and responsibility. In order to guarantee the best home loans rates and deals, homeowners need to be very careful and calculating in researching mortgage deals. In order to do so, here are three piece of advice for prospective homeowners to follow:

  1. Clean Up Your Credit Score: Having a strong credit score is the first step in any venture into mortgage lending. Home buyers should make sure their credit rating is as impressive as possible. They should review their credit reports and search for any errors that may skew the score. The Home Loan Learning Center reports that most lenders mandate a minimum credit score of 680 from borrowers (or 620 for federal housing).
  2. Don’t Rock the Boat: That is, when securing a loan, be sure to stay with your employer. Any major changes in employment or income can deter or halt the mortgage process altogether.
  3. Reserve 3.5% of the Loan For the Down Payment: Though mortgages rates vary from lender to lender, the average cost of a down payment is roughly 3.5% of the total worth of the loan. Be sure to reserve enough money for the down payment as well as for other closing costs before you sign any papers.

For more information about the best mortgage lenders and how to secure a favorable home loan, feel free to leave a comment or question at the bottom.

See this link for more references.

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Adjust a bed Adjustable bed systems Twin adjustable bed

The Perfect Gift For A Loved One In Chronic Pain

Therapeutic beds

There is nothing worse than watching a loved one endure pain. Whether the hurt is large or small, temporary or terminal, every single one of us has tried to comfort that special person and wished to whatever powers that be that we could absorb their hurts.

This is an unfortunate impossibility, but thanks to modern technology, there are a number of ways to minimize bodily pain for a loved one. One of the most overlooked methods is to re-invent the way they sleep by getting rid of a traditional horizontal mattress in favor of one of the many available dual adjustable beds. Dual adjustable beds allow for flexible sleep options that can work to target your partner’s chronic pain. Most obviously, an adjustable bed can support your upper body much like a chair or couch does while still providing a position conducive to sleep. This incline at the top of the mattress can prevent our unconscious instincts to curl up and switch positions during sleep, thus preventing the exacerbation of a chronic injury with sudden unfriendly movements.

Dual adjustable beds also come with many added regulatory functions in addition to height change. Many offer massage mattresses that greatly aid bed comfort, or heated mattress pads to relieve the tension in chronically sore muscles. Furthermore, if any of these options are counterproductive to your own sleep but helpful to your partner, many styles of adjustable beds offer split function mattresses that allow you to sleep the way you prefer while still providing relief to the one you love.

The holiday season may be over, but it’s always an appropriate time to take someone’s ailments into your hands. You don’t have to watch helplessly as someone you care about suffers. Consider investing in an adjustable bed, and you might find that you and it are the key to helping them rest easier.

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55+ communities lancaster pa 55+ community homes for sale Senior living lancaster pa

What You Probably Don’t Know About 55+ Community Living

Living in a 55+ community

If you’re in your 50s and looking at retirement, you may be finding that many of the more traditional senior housing options that are offered just aren’t a good fit for you. You probably don’t want to move into a community where the average age is several decades older than you are — and yet, at the same time, you’re probably not getting the social life you want in your regular neighborhood, either. Fortunately, there’s a third option you may not have heard of: a 55 an up community, also commonly called an over 55 community or a 55+ community. What is a 55+ community? As the name suggests, it’s a community designed for people 55 and older. But it’s typically a lot more than that, in terms of the culture and amenities offered. Here’s what you should know about 55+ community living:

  1. You’ll Own Your Own House

    Unlike in many more traditionally senior-focused living options, in a 55+ community you’ll still own your own space. You’ll get more of it, too; you can even have your own single-family home complete with yard. So if not wanting to downsize (or even wanting to upsize, something more and more people are doing later in life) plays into your decision, there’s a clear advantage there.

  2. These Adults Are Active

    Over 55 communities are often known as “active adult” communities, and there’s a reason for that. Over 55 community activities offer plenty of ways to keep moving, from golf to tennis to cycling. These might get referred to as leisure activities, but many of the people who choose these communities are looking for like-minded people to stay active with more than they’re looking for a leisurely lifestyle.

  3. Social Activities Age With You

    You shouldn’t be worried, however, if you don’t think you’ll be playing competitive tennis into your 80s. These 55+ communities typically offer a very broad range of activities that can age with you. Living in a 55+ community is a well-rounded experience that can allow you to go straight from an exercise class to a massage or a book club. That’s a great balance especially if you’re looking to move with a spouse who desires a different activity level than you do.

Do you have any questions or something to add about 55+ community living? Join the discussion in the comments.

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Clothes donations Donation pick up va Military order of the purple heart

Why Giving Back is Always Better Than Receiving

Donation pick up maryland

It’s often been said that it is better to give than it is to receive, yet how true is that? Very true, actually. A number of scientific studies have proven that donating and volunteering provide several physical, emotional, and mental benefits, and may even extend one’s life. As such, now is an excellent time to get involved in a cause that resonates deeply with you.

While there are a number of noteworthy causes, showing appreciation and support for military families, troops, and veterans is an important cause for many Americans and one that many actively participate in. Many organizations that help military families receive the bulk of their charitable donations for military families and veterans during the winter holiday season. However, giving back is a year round job. You can find ways to show your support for military families all year long.

For example, clothing donations are an excellent way to give back to the military and veteran community regardless of the time of year. Nowadays, it seems everyone has a hectic schedule which it difficult to find time to give back. Clothing donations allow you to make a difference even if you have a busy schedule. There are a number of organizations that accept clothing donations by offering a donation pick up service.

In addition to helping military families meet their needs, clothing donations also help the environment. An overwhelmingly majority — 99% — of clothing that is discarded could have been recycled. Unfortunately, the typical American household discards nearly 68 pounds of clothing each year. Donating clothes helps to reduce toxic pollution and eases the burden on landfills. Also, it allows you to contribute to and support two causes at once.

Often times, it’s the simplest and smallest gestures that mean the most. Something as simple as buying a military spouse a cup of coffee can be enough to make a difference in their life.

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Adjustable twin bed Heights of adjustable beds Recliner beds

How Adjustable Beds Can Help You Live a Better Life

Adjustable bed sale

Getting a good night’s sleep is an important component in maintaining a physically, mentally and emotionally healthy balance. However, research from the American Sleep Foundation indicates that roughly 66% of people in the United States report having issues getting sleep that fully renews them. In addition, over 50% of adults in American report having some kind of chronic pain, something that can be exacerbated by sleeping on a traditional flat mattress — the natural shape of your back is not supported.

If you suffer from chronic pain and/or have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep, you may want to look into purchasing some kind of adjustable bed. An adjustable bed can come in any kind of size — from twin to a king size adjustable bed — and allow you to help alleviate pressure and tension from certain areas of the body that may be hindering your sleep. Read on to learn more about the benefits of adjustable beds!

Why You Should Purchase an Adjustable Bed:

  • The most obvious benefit of buying an adjustable bed is bed comfort. Even if it is a large king size adjustable bed, the whole thing can be adjusted to certain position to support your head, neck, shoulders, legs and back when you sleep. This helps to reduce pain or soreness when you wake up.
  • There are many different types of adjustable beds that come in different sizes and with different assets. Some adjustable beds even come with optional heating and massage options for the ultimate relaxation experience. If you are looking for a really luxurious adjustable bed, talk to staff members at a mattress store and see if they can help you find what you are looking for.
  • Many people choose to get memory foam adjustable beds to further create a better sleeping experience. There are many great deals out there on memory foam beds, so talk to sales reps at stores and see what you can find.
  • If you have a partner living with you, and adjustable bed is great because it can accommodate both of your unique sleep needs. For example, if you need support on your back and your partner needs support on their legs, you can each adjust your own side to suit those needs and keep you comfortable.
  • Many people are wary of purchasing an adjustable bed because of the price tag. However, buying an adjustable bed is an investment into your health, which is absolutely invaluable.

Have you ever had any experiences searching for a king size adjustable bed or other kind? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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Church steeple plans Church steeple prices Church steeples for sale

The Best Places to Buy and Sell Church Pews

Church steeple plans

Everyone –religious or not — can recognize a building as a church from the outside just by looking at a church steeple. Local churches are often the oldest building within any parish, meaning that elements like a church steeple and church furniture are often the original. On the inside, as well there is also a very recognizable, old element in churches that are often overlooked: church pews.

A Brief History of Church Pews:

  • Apart from a few Orthodox religious groups, pews can be found in practically every church across the United States. People have used church pews since the 13th century, having removable stone benches placed alongside the inner walls of the church. Before this time period around the Protestant Reformation, however, pews weren’t really used.
  • As church sermons became an integral part of religious sermons, the church pew became a standard part of the church so that people could sit. In churches where prayers are carried out upon bended knee, there are church pews often equipped with cushioned kneelers in front of the bench.
  • From the 1600s-1800s, only certain people could sit in certain areas of the church. For instance, wealthier individuals were assigned to the seats closest to the altar while peasants sat toward the back.
  • In the 20th century, it became common for churches to rent out pews in order to raise income. This was a common practice with Presbyterians, Anglicans and Catholics alike. Antique church pews would often fetch a high price, as they were revered as being an important part of the original church.

To this day, many people remain interested in being able to buy church pews, especially old ones. Many people purchase church pews and use them either as some kind of bench in a dining area or use them in their own private religious shrines.

With 40% of Americans classifying themselves as very religious in a Gallup poll, there is a fairly solid market for buying and selling church pews — or even original church parts like a church steeple — to devout individuals who would like a part of their religion’s history for themselves.

If you’re looking to buy or sell church pews, the best place to look would be in the southern part of the United States. Research conducted in 2011 shows that eight out of then 10 most religious states in the country are actually located down south, so you’ll have a better chance of being able to sell church pews there than up north.

Have you had any experiences selling church pews or other church furniture? Tell us about it in the comments below!

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Bluetooth tv remote control Magnavox remote control Tv remote replacement

Sony Remote Control Replacements 3 Reasons to Not Go Universal

Remote control replacement

TV remote controls, surround sound remotes, dvd player remotes. We’ve all have them, and we’ve all lost them at some point. Did you know that approximately half of Americans own 4 or more devices, in their living rooms alone, that require remote controls? So, losing a remote can make life much more difficult. If you’ve already checked your fridge or freezer (4% of lost remotes are actually found there!), then you may need to consider ordering a new remote. The easy solution may sound like running out and buying a universal remote control, but think about all the programming you’ll have to do; not to mention all of the codes you’ll have to look up.

Let’s use a Sony device as an example. Did you know the Sony remote control replacements are often a better way to go than purchasing a universal remote? Here’s why:

1. Programming a Remote: Is there anything more frustrating than fighting with a tv remote replacement? It can be excruciatingly time consuming to go through remote manuals and look up universal remote codes. Did you know original remotes do not ever have to be programmed? In the case of the Sony systems, ordering Sony remote control replacements for your specific devices will save you the aggravation of trying to set up a universal remote.

2. Loss of Features: Your old Sony remote could fast forward your dvds frame by frame, but your new universal Sony replacement remote can’t? That’s because there are true Sony remote control replacements and then there are universal remotes that cannot compensate for brand specific features. Reordering your old remote will ensure you do not lose any special features on your device.

3. Relearning the Controls: Some remotes have buttons with words, others with images. If you buy true Sony remote control replacements for your Sony devices, you won’t need to relearn the button placements or symbol meanings, like you will with universal remotes.

While reordering true manufacturer remote controls may seem like a hassle, this purchase can actually make your life easier in the long run. There is no need to program original remotes, no loss of functionality, and no reason to relearn button placement and symbol terminology. Ordering online can even make this process easier than a trip to your local home supply store.

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Adjustable beds electric Bed adjustable King size adjustable bed

What You Can Learn From The Experts About Getting A Better Night’s Sleep

Sleep comfort adjustable beds

Sleep is vital for keeping healthy and energized. All to often, people are not getting the recharge they desire despite their efforts. Here are some suggestions if you’re finding yourself struggling to get enough comfortable and refreshing sleep each night.

Tip #1. Try A King Size Adjustable Bed

Did you know that if you are sleeping on a traditional, flat mattress, the natural “S” shape of your spine is not supported? Instead, the flat mattress may create gaps where your spine does not receive sufficient support. Years of sleeping without sufficient support can start to add up. If you just can’t seem to get a good night’s sleep and often wake up feeling groggy or sore, it’s possible that the problem may not be you–it may be your bed. As the average American spends 26 entire years sleeping, splurging on that king size adjustable bed you’ve had your eye on is likely to be money well-spent. The cost of adjustable beds varies as there are many different styles of adjustable beds on the market today. Some king size adjustable beds even come with options for heat and massage, for a truly relaxing and comfortable experience.

Tip #2. Enhance Your Sleep Environment

The second tip for getting a better night’s sleep is to evaluate your bedroom to make sure the environment is ideal for relaxation and sleep. Even small adjustments can make a big difference. Adjusting the air conditioning or heat so your bedroom temperature is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit promotes a cool environment that can help sleep come easier. Additionally, anything you can do to eliminate noise and light will help. Many people find it easier to sleep with some form of white noise on in the background. A fan may be used to produce white noise or there are even white noise devices available designed for this purpose. If you need complete silence from traffic noise, loud neighbors or a snoring sleep partner, ear plugs may help.

These are just a couple of the tips that have the potential to improve the quality of your sleep at night. For questions, comments or additional suggestions, feel free to leave a comment.