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Written by Bob Mabry
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Have you outgrown your small home, but you're staying put for financial or economic reasons? Or maybe you recently bought a house in foreclosure that was a great deal, but needs fixing up.If so, you're part of the re-energized remodeling market. For the first time since 2006, home-improvement spending is up, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.
Most homeowners aren't going for dazzle in their bathrooms, they're just looking for a more livable space. Typical bath projects today reflect practicality and a desire to control utility costs. Although people tend to add or improve bathrooms with comfort and convenience in mind, these projects are also smart values.
Creating a new bathroom is one of the most solid investments you can make in your home. Reports estimate that a midrange home bathroom remodel will recoup 71 percent of its cost, while a bathroom addition recoups nearly 60 percent.
If you're thinking about a remodel, here are some suggestions from the professionals at Handyman Matters - these will add value and save you money in the long run:
Federal tax credits: Energy-efficiency improvements to existing homes can net you big tax credits. Visit http://www.energystar.gov/ to see if your project qualifies. Examples include HVAC improvements, insulation, storm windows and certain water heaters.
Up flush toilets: One savvy idea is to choose an up flush toilet for your new bath project. Because this type of technology - macerating plumbing - doesn't require digging, a completely new, full bathroom can be installed quickly and for a lot less time and money than conventional plumbing. What's more, an "up toilet" can go anywhere in your home. Even in the basement. With up flush technology, there is no need for digging up cement floors. The unique technology pumps waste and water upward, through small-diameter piping, directly into your sewer or septic tank. And unlike sewage ejection systems, up flush toilet waste is removed with every flush, so there is no need for undesirable waste storage. For smaller homes, nothing could be easier than adding a bathroom with an up flush toilet. These systems can be installed in any room and are ideal for small spaces. An unused closet or the area underneath a stairway can easily be converted to a bathroom.
Save water: Water-saving toilets are one of the five most popular bathroom products.
Use LED lighting: Long-lasting light-emitting diode lighting can use 75 percent less energy than incandescent lighting.
Go door-less: A walk-in shower saves space and requires less cleaning. Depending on your design, you may even save money with this option.
Completing a bathroom remodel can be a daunting task, but don't worry, you've got the professionals at Handyman Matters to help you out! They can work with your schedule and budget to ensure you're getting the most for your money. Click here to find a location near you or call our local office at 281-358-6666.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
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Written by Bob Mabry
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If you're like most Americans, then your greatest asset is your home. But with recent declines in home values, it may be time to consider options for preserving your home's value. Since the value of your home is directly tied to its condition, Handyman Matters suggests following the steps below for ways to help preserve that value.
Step 1: Where to Begin — Indoor vs. Outdoor
Preserving the value of your home can be achieved in many ways, but your home's exterior should be your initial focus. Remodeling Magazine's annual Cost vs. Value Report shows exterior and replacement projects bring the biggest return. Before you decide where to begin, you should consider the following:
Budget — set one and be realistic.
Goals — narrow your scope by determining exactly what you want to achieve.
Step 2: Do Your Research
Depending on the region of the country in which you live, the value you gain from exterior home improvement projects can vary widely. Consider this: a midrange siding replacement recovers 92 percent of its cost in the Northeast but only 77 percent in the Midwest, according to the Cost vs. Value Report. Exterior projects that typically recover cost will include a roof replacement and the addition of a deck.
The cost recouped on a given remodeling project also depends on the value of similar homes nearby and the rate at which property values are changing in the surrounding area. Even the availability and cost of new and existing homes in the immediate vicinity can be a factor.
Step 3: Pick a Project
Now that you've set a budget and completed your research, it's time to select your project.
A great place to start is your roof. A roof used to be nothing more than protection for your home from the elements. Today homeowners look to their roof as a way to increase their home's curb appeal and overall value.
When selecting a roofing material it is important to remember the following:
Performance is as important as curb appeal.
Select a product that is backed by a solid warranty.
A majority of homeowners prefer asphalt shingles because they perform well and are typically the most cost effective option, but many alternatives are now available. One alternative growing in popularity, which could potentially increase the value of your home, is composite roofing.
Another potential exterior project is the addition of a deck. When selecting a decking material that will help preserve your home's value, it's important to think about the following:
Durability — you want a product that performs well and will last.
Maintenance — deck maintenance can be costly. Consider low-maintenance materials like composite (a combination of wood and plastic).
A natural wood deck can lead to costly, time-consuming, annual maintenance. Composite decks, which may cost more initially, generally never require painting or staining. After all, you should spend more time enjoying your deck than caring for it.
No matter what project you choose, maintaining the value of your greatest asset, your home, should be a top priority. The professionals at Handyman Matters also believe in keeping your greatest asset at its highest value. For all of your home maintenance needs, Handyman Matters is here to help. To find a location near you, click here.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
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Written by Bob Mabry
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With winter a fading memory, it’s time to let your home decor fully
embrace the light, upbeat spirit of warm weather. Discard those darker
hues in your home, and brighten things up a bit! Incorporating
lighter-colored accessories is a fast and easy way to brighten the mood
in your home. Switching out heavy winter curtains with sheers or
replacing a hunting scene wall hanging with something botanical themed
is a cost-effective, effortless way to welcome light and nature into
your household - and cast out the lingering chilly effects of winter.
Re-accessorize the right way - spend your redecorating dollars on
items that will give you the most impact for the lowest monetary
investment. Handyman Matters has a few tips to help get you started:
Switch up wall decor
Giving a room a whole new look can be as easy as taking down a picture
and replacing it with something different. If you're looking to create
a brighter, lighter feeling, forego heavy canvases or tapestries, dark
colors and large, heavy frames. Opt for nature-inspired wall accents in
simple materials like metal and simple styles like lightly framed
floral prints. Look for bright colors that bring in the outdoors -
grass green, geranium red, marigold yellow and sky blue will accomplish
this beautifully. These colors give a complementary pop to virtually
any neutral background, plus they'll evoke the upbeat feeling of being
outdoors.
Fabric fun
Abundant sunshine is one of the most joyful aspects of warm weather.
While heavy drapes can help keep out the cold and dreariness of gray
winter days, in summer, they have the opposite effect--they just block
your slice of sun. Doff the drapes and give windows a light, airy and
optimistic feeling with sheer, frothy fabrics in light hues. You can
find styles and colors to match virtually any taste and decor theme.
The key is to choose lightweight fabrics that won't weigh down the
windows or block the welcome sunshine. This type of window treatment
has a practical side, as well - when the summer sun is so hot that you
need to close the blinds, lighter window treatments can help balance
the innate visual heaviness of blinds.
Think outside the firebox
It warmed your home and created great ambiance on chilly winter
evenings, but come June and July, your fireplace doesn't have to sit
idle. It's easy to dress up a wood-burning fireplace and make it fit
into your lighter, brighter summer decor theme. Clean the firebox of
ash and debris, and place a lush, green fern inside the fireplace. Or
you can incorporate the light-hearted feeling of running water by
placing an electric-powered fountain inside the fireplace.
Great outdoors
Spending time in your outdoor living space is one of the best treats of
summer. The right accessories, furniture and decor can make the time
you spend outside feel restful, relaxing and easy - even if you're
preparing for a big barbecue feast for friends, family and neighbors.
Outdoor furniture in materials like wicker, accented by colorful
cushions, can make your environment feel light and bright. Create
movement and a cool atmosphere with fans, misters and fountains. Think
beyond the deck or patio and create separate seating areas in
attractive spots throughout your landscape. A resin bistro set,
designed to mimic the look of white-painted wrought iron, nestled
beneath a tree or near a flowerbed can turn an unused spot into a great
place to take your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Cost-effective,
simple and easy-to-do changes can make all the difference in how well
your decor reflects the easy, breezy days of summer. Click here
or call 281-358-6666 to find a location near you and start
accessorizing and decorating your home for summer!
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Written by At Harpers
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Casting Ad
Models Needed
Seeking models for upcoming print and commercial work. Looking for the following
Male with a six pack or close swimmers body type preferred for soap ad.
Women all ages for jewelry and clothing ads
Teens for jewelry ad and mannequin in store modeling (we will train the right individuals) We are looking for several teens for our upcoming Time Machine - we will teach you how to mannequin model and you will wear fun and cool outfits from the 20's through the 80's
All model types and ages for upcoming commercial
Pay will be dependent on experience up to 100. flat fee plus 50. store gift certificate. If you have no experience or do not qualify for pay you will recieve the photos to build your portfolio plus a store gift.
Casting will take place Saturday July 10 and 24 at 11 am- 1 pm HARPERS fabulous finds 202 Main St Old Town Spring 77373. You can find information about us at
www.atharpers.com and harpers fabulous finds on facebook
Do not send or email photos they will not be accepted at this time. Please bring resume and photo if you have them. Do not call all info will be on our website.
HARPERS fabulous finds
202-1 Main St
Old Town Spring, Tx 77373
281 528 7994
www.atharpers.com
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Written by Bob Mabry
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Current economic conditions have forced many families to re-evaluate their spending habits and cut back in certain areas that are no longer deemed necessities. Dining out, family vacations and the purchase of that new TV are all being postponed until the economy makes it out of the red - but some things, like home improvement projects, can't be pushed off quite as easily. And while you may not be ready to invest in a whole new set of tools to begin your home improvement project, Handyman Matters provides a solution to help you tackle those jobs that just can't wait.
Protect your largest investment
Your home is your largest investment and no matter what the economic conditions, you don't want to cut corners on projects around the house. Taking the time to get these projects done right the first time will not only ensure the safety and well being of your family, but it will also ensure your financial security for years to come. Investing some energy and money into fixing little problems, like a crack in your home's foundation, will prevent larger repairs down the road. Even something as unassuming as a clogged drain or leaky faucet can lead to much more costly problems if not addressed properly, and can negatively impact the overall value of your home.
Simple "refresher" projects, like a fresh coat of paint or a little landscaping work, will not only make your home feel more warm and inviting, but will also yield a large return on investment when it comes time to put your house on the market. Other projects, like adding a skylight or fireplace, can make your home more energy efficient and help reduce bills in the long run - and with most family budgets still in survival mode, projects that can produce long-term savings are a smart investment.
Upgrade your house without upgrading your bills
Although many home improvement projects appear to be simple, they often require tools that most weekend warriors don't have just lying around. This is when it makes sense to enlist the help of your local Handyman Matters professionals. Stocked with pressure washers to clean off your siding or deck, jackhammers to tear out that uneven front walk and concrete polishers to give your garage floor a distinctive new finish, your Handyman Matters location can take care of all of your home improvements and upgrades.
Don't let your biggest investment become your biggest burden - maximize your investment while getting the proper professional help from Handyman Matters. Your home matters and your time matters. Let Handyman Matters be your trusted partner with all of your home repairs, improvements and remodels. Visit us at www.HoustonNorth.HandymanMatters.com for more information or call us at 281-358-6666 to schedule an appointment.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
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Written by Bob Mabry
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Unlike your car, your home doesn't come with a maintenance manual. Keeping your home in good shape means staying on top of the many things you need to do to protect its value and your family's safety.
A home maintenance checklist can get very long. But there are simple things you can do on a regular basis to avoid loss and preserve your investment. There are many things that can happen to a home. Even minor incidents can wind up costing thousands of dollars. Handyman Matters professional craftsmen have put together this list of items to do around your home to avoid costly repairs down the road.
Once a year
* Inspect your fireplace chimney. Do you see shiny black soot? It's called creosote and the excess build-up can cause a chimney fire. You'll want a professional chimney sweep to come in and clean it at least once a year.
* Dust heating registers, vents, radiators and smoke alarms. A good vacuuming will get rid of airborne dust and improve airflow on heating units, and will ensure that smoke alarms work properly.
Once a month
* Look for leaks. Check your hot water heater for rust stains or water on, around or under it. This could mean a valve is leaking and a plumber should be called to replace it, or could also signal the entire unit should be replaced. Don’t forget to take a look at your dishwasher and toilets, as well. Leaks over long periods of time can damage floors and lead to expensive repairs.
* Test smoke alarms. Press the test buttons to make sure the alarm is working.
Once each spring and fall
* De-gunk your gutters. To prevent overflow and decay, remove leaves and other debris from gutters, and clean the screens that lead to the downspouts. Check the gutter joints for cracks.
* Examine the roof for leaks. Take a look at places where items protrude from the roof - such as a chimney, sky light or vent pipes - and see if shingles are loose or broken. Inspect the interior ceiling at those same places for water stains.
And one simple maintenance tip that can fit into anyone's busy schedule; once a year, you should "exercise" your home's circuit breakers. Open and close each breaker to prevent it from sticking. This will help keep the breakers moving easily, and it takes about 10 seconds.
Taking care of your home can seem like a big chore, but it pays off if you follow the above tips. Catching problems early can save you money in the long run. Call Handyman Matters to take care of all of your home maintenance and that will ensure your home is properly taken care of year round. Click here to find a location near you.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Written by Bob Mabry
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Current economic conditions have forced many families to re-evaluate their spending habits and cut back in certain areas that are no longer deemed necessities. Dining out, family vacations and the purchase of that new TV are all being postponed until the economy makes it out of the red - but some things, like home improvement projects, can't be pushed off quite as easily. And while you may not be ready to invest in a whole new set of tools to begin your home improvement project, Handyman Matters provides a solution to help you tackle those jobs that just can't wait.
Protect your largest investment
Your home is your largest investment and no matter what the economic conditions, you don't want to cut corners on projects around the house. Taking the time to get these projects done right the first time will not only ensure the safety and well being of your family, but it will also ensure your financial security for years to come. Investing some energy and money into fixing little problems, like a crack in your home's foundation, will prevent larger repairs down the road. Even something as unassuming as a clogged drain or leaky faucet can lead to much more costly problems if not addressed properly, and can negatively impact the overall value of your home.
Simple "refresher" projects, like a fresh coat of paint or a little landscaping work, will not only make your home feel more warm and inviting, but will also yield a large return on investment when it comes time to put your house on the market. Other projects, like adding a skylight or fireplace, can make your home more energy efficient and help reduce bills in the long run - and with most family budgets still in survival mode, projects that can produce long-term savings are a smart investment.
Upgrade your house without upgrading your bills
Although many home improvement projects appear to be simple, they often require tools that most weekend warriors don't have just lying around. This is when it makes sense to enlist the help of your local Handyman Matters professionals. Stocked with pressure washers to clean off your siding or deck, jackhammers to tear out that uneven front walk and concrete polishers to give your garage floor a distinctive new finish, your Handyman Matters location can take care of all of your home improvements and upgrades.
Don't let your biggest investment become your biggest burden - maximize your investment while getting the proper professional help from Handyman Matters. Your home matters and your time matters. Let Handyman Matters be your trusted partner with all of your home repairs, improvements and remodels. Click here to find a location near you.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Written by L.A. Kaiser
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We moved one horse to Sovereign. LA Kaiser worked her magic with our mare so a month later we moved our show pony as well. The horses in this barn are very well cared for. LA consistently goes the extra mile with these animals. Stalls are always clean, pastures are mucked out and manure is disposed of off the property. Horses are turned out daily and are groomed when they are brought in. Feet are always clean! LA's training style for the humans is equally as fantastic. She communicates in a manner young riders can understand! Unlike many show barns there is not a lot of screaming that goes on. If you are looking for a great environment for yourself, your child and/or your horse plan on visiting this one! Our family could not be more satisfied! ~Happy Show Mom |
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Written by L.A. Kaiser
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Sovereign Farm is a professional family oriented facility. The horse care is exquisite! The lesson program is customized to each student for optimal performance. This family owned and operated facility has the expertise for all levels of horse and rider accommodating every need. Highly recommended! As a boarder I could not be happier!
~Ecstatic Boarder
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Written by Bob Mabry
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With the arrival of warmer weather, it can be a challenge to keep your home cool and comfortable, yet keep your energy bills in check. By taking steps now to make your home more environmentally friendly, you'll not only help save natural resources, but you'll save money, too.
With air conditioners and appliances running throughout the summer, it's easy to burn up energy and raise costs. In fact, the energy used in the average house is responsible for twice as many greenhouse gas emissions than the average car, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To help you get started in "greening" your home, Handyman Matters offers these tips to help you.
Pre-set indoor temperatures. One of the easiest and simplest things you can do is get a programmable thermostat installed. It will allow you to cut cooling costs up to 6 percent for every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer. Some models allow you to pre-set temperatures for every day of the week to match your family's comings and goings. Handyman Matters professional craftsmen can install one in your home so you can start saving today.
Reduce energy, increase home comfort. For efficient air conditioning, make sure your system meets the newest government energy standards. For example, you can save up to 47 percent on heating and air conditioning costs while reducing greenhouse gas at the same time. Be sure and check out the current economic stimulus package in your area to see if installing these items qualify for tax rebates.
Lights out, costs down. Increasing your lighting efficiency is one of the fastest ways to decrease your electricity bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Turn lights off when you leave the room or add in a dimmer to see instant energy savings. Installing an occupancy sensor that automatically turns lights on and off when someone enters and leaves the room will also save energy and money. For example, you can save up to 50 percent energy when replacing a standard light switch with a dimmer light switch. Ask your local Handyman Matters about installing new light switches in popular rooms around your home.
Shut out high energy bills. Your exterior door may be contributing to your home's overall energy usage. Newer models often fit and insulate better than older models and replacing your old door often reaps both energy- and money-saving benefits. Handyman Matters suggests you look for models that create a tight seal and will keep the outside air out in order to keep energy bills low.
There are many other simple ways you can reduce energy costs around your home. Even small acts of green can make a difference. Handyman Matters recommends simple savers such as turning off your computer and monitor when not in use; lowering the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees; taking short showers instead of baths and washing only full loads of dishes and clothes. Contact your local Handyman Matters office for more ideas on going green and keeping your energy costs low. Click here to find a location near you.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Written by Bob Mabry
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This is the decade of right-sizing. The economic reset triggered by the excesses of the last decade is forcing our society to rethink its definition of "enough." One area under enormous scrutiny is housing. How much space does it really take to house the average American family of 2.61 people?
Our definition of "enough space" is changing, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The year 2008 saw the first annual decrease in average new-home size since 1994. During the intervening 15 years, the average rose by 21 percent - from 2,050 square feet in 1994 to a peak of 2,507 square feet in 2007 - before slipping to 2,392 square feet in 2008. The 2008 decrease in home size was also the largest annual drop since 1980.
Due to the economic state of our county in the past few years it’s no surprise that consumers have held off on remodeling bigger and better kitchens and bathrooms. Now we see an increase in homeowners seeking to create a more efficient and functional space within their home. They’re looking for more storage, less waste and more flexibility - Handyman Matters has put together the following items to think about when making your smaller bathrooms live larger.
Style still in demand
As builders downsize the American dream home, consumers are saying that compromises on space do not automatically mean giving up conveniences. Currently, 60 percent of new homes have three or more bathrooms, and while the size of each may not be as expansive as in years past, that is no reason to compromise on style.
In fact, the trends shaping society today - smaller, smarter living spaces, value and efficiency over conspicuous consumption and the need for a greener lifestyle with a smaller environmental footprint - are having a profound impact on bath-product manufacturers. These trends are also making the job of creating more stylish statements in a smaller bathroom easier than ever.
Handyman Matters has seen a growing trend in maximizing efficiencies around the home and specifically in the bathrooms. A good example is creating more counter deck space on pedestal lavatories, or more storage space in vanities even with a smaller footprint. While this trend to efficiency cuts across all styles, it tends to require fixtures, faucets and furniture that take simpler forms and shapes.
Try a little planning
Whether your preference is traditional, contemporary or the in-between transitional, creating stylish smaller bathrooms that work is simple, with a little planning. Handyman Matters offers these two important areas to consider in your planning:
- Storage: Vanities that offer ample storage space within a smaller footprint can hide hair dryers, towels, bath products and cleaning supplies, creating an uncluttered look to make a space seem larger. Vessel sinks that sit atop a vanity add a dramatic touch to a bath, while maximizing cabinet space and creating deck storage space. If a pedestal lavatory fits your floor plan better, look for models with generous deck space. Don't forget a toilet with a flat tank top: The top of the toilet tank is valuable bathroom real estate.
- Lifestyle: As we try to do more in the same number of hours, bathroom rituals necessarily change. Shifting from a bathtub to a shower fits our lifestyle and integrates better into the smaller overall footprint of today's bath. Multiple showerheads and body sprays provide the same relaxation as soaking in a tub, but in far less time and with significantly less cleanup. Most modern showers also use substantially less water, which appeals to growing ecological awareness.
There are many different ways to bring efficiencies into your bathrooms and the rest of your home. If you’re looking to make your living spaces easier for you to live then call your local Handyman Matters – the professional craftsmen can bring your vision of a useful bathroom to life. Click here to find a location near you.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Written by Bob Mabry
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Interviewing potential contractors can be a very stressful time. You are looking at investing potentially thousands of your very hard earned dollars into your most prized possession - your home. The world is full of unscrupulous characters calling themselves "Contractors", some are merely incompetent, others are full blown crooks who are trying to separate you from your cash.
We at Handyman Matters have developed a "Consumer Guide" that tells the average lay person all about the various ploys that a less than ethical contractor might attempt with you. The guide also lists the 21 important questions you as a consumer should have answered by the contractors you are interested in dealing with. You can download this "consumer guide" directly from our website here. |
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Written by Bob Mabry
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Today's post is a by a friend of ours who runs a Home Repair and Handyman Service in Cincinnati, Ohio - Don Kennedy.
Decks | ProMaster Home Repair & Handyman - Cincinnati, Ohio
As always, if you need help with your deck or any other home repairs in the Houston area, give us a call at 281-358-6666. |
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Written by Kathryn Hartwig
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Hey everyone, im looking to make some extra money this summer! Im doing private swim lessons. Im a kingwood high school varsity swimmer and i love kids! Im willing to work around your scheduals and your prices! Email and let me know! Hartwig.kathryn@Yahoo.com or call/text me at (281)882-2450
Thanks, Kathryn. |
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Written by Carla Alvarez
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Today Google users had a little shock to their system with a new look and new name on Google’s home page. Rather than the familiar “Google,” the name “Topeka” was prominently displayed.
A little confusing without the back story. At first, I didn’t make the... |
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Written by Houston Texas Real Estate Blog
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Alvin, TexasWelcome to the Alvin real estate market. Located in Brazoria County, Alvin, Texas is only 30 minutes south of Houston Texas. With Oak tree lined neighborhoods, college... |
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