Candy Keane's Blog, page 92

7 Best Practices for First-Time Homeowners

Getting ready to buy your first home can be pretty exciting. But it can also feel like a daunting task. What should you be doing first? How will you know which home is the right one for you?

Don’t worry too much about it. Although buying a home is a major financial commitment, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Read these best practices for first-time homeowners, and take the time you need to do everything right.

Be aware of your credit score before you try to get a mortgage

You will certainly need a mortgage to buy your first home. However, when you contact your bank or a mortgage lender, they will examine different factors before they decide whether to lend you money and how much.

They will want to know your income and current financial situation and check your credit score and history. So, be sure to check your credit score before you apply for a mortgage. If it doesn’t look good, work on improving it. Also, pay all your bills in full and on time and pay off your debts.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage to know how much house you can afford

Before you start shopping around for your dream house, know exactly how much house you can realistically afford to buy. Get pre-approved for a mortgage. The lender will review your situation and let you know the maximum amount you can borrow.

This will give you a good idea of your budget. Then, as long as your financial situation stays the same, you should be able to secure the mortgage you have discussed with them at the interest rates you have been pre-approved for.

Consider seeking the guidance of professionals

Since this is your first time buying a home, don’t hesitate to seek the help of professionals. If you’re unsure which type of mortgage would be best for your situation, contact a mortgage agent. They will help you find the right mortgage, lender, and the best rates.

And if you need some guidance to go through the whole home-buying process, hire a real estate agent. They will help you find a great home, and they will be able to handle all the necessary paperwork for you.

Research tax credits and other financial aids you might qualify for

As a first-time homebuyer, you might qualify for different programs to help you reduce the cost of buying your first house. A grant, a tax credit, or a first home savings account can make a difference in how fast you can become a proud homeowner.

But of course, the government will not contact you to let you know about the financial aid you could receive. It’s up to you to do some research and take action.

Don’t buy the first house you visit even if you like it

It’s easy to feel enthusiastic if you like the first house you visit. But should you go ahead and buy it right away? Probably not.

It’s a better idea to visit at least a few more houses. You can then compare your options and find the home that meets all your needs. You might realize that even though the first home you visited had gorgeous hardwood floors and more than enough storage space, the third one is in the perfect location and less expensive.

Be sure to get a home inspection before making an offer

One of the best practices for first-time homeowners is to get a home inspected before deciding to buy it.

A proper home inspection will tell you if the property has any issues that you should be aware of. If you discover it needs major repairs, consider looking for another home. You might also use this knowledge to adjust your offer and negotiate with the seller.

Don’t forget about closing costs and potential renovations

Finally, as you shop around for a home, don’t forget to consider closing costs, property taxes, transfer taxes, notary fees, moving expenses, and more.

Becoming a homeowner is more expensive than you envisioned, and you might need a better mortgage. And if the home you want to buy urgently needs renovations, remember to add the estimated costs to your list of expenses.

The post 7 Best Practices for First-Time Homeowners appeared first on Geek Mamas .

How to Choose Child-Friendly Materials for Your Home Build

Building a home can be an exciting adventure when you have young children in tow, yet choosing child-friendly materials for your build can be a tricky business. While aesthetic appeal might tempt us, prioritizing safety and durability over aesthetics is crucial. 

Children are naturally curious, active, and more susceptible to accidents than adults are. When selecting materials for any element from floors to walls, you must keep this in mind. But this also doesn’t have to mean forgoing style as part of creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for your little ones.

In this guide, we cover how best to choose child-friendly materials from flooring through countertops without sacrificing style!

Image source

Consult and Work with a Custom Home-Building Company

Hiring a custom home-building company should be one of your initial steps, especially when you plan to build a child-friendly home, as they will help you source the right materials and provide valuable advice about products that are both stylish and safe for children. They are experts at knowing about durable materials with low toxicity levels that make cleaning simple, thus helping guide the journey from start to finish.

Custom home builders provide their expertise in making informed decisions tailored specifically to you and the safety of your children, such as round edges on countertops or non-slip flooring surfaces, which reduce risk, as falls are the number one reason for injury in both small children and elderly adults.

When looking for home builders, make sure to look for a local custom home building company. For instance, if you live in Kentucky, look for reliable Kentucky home builders, as they know local laws and regulations, and have deeper insight into the material market, making sure you get the most for your money. Partnering with a reliable building company means having access to expert support when making these important choices based on both needs and safety measures for children in mind.

Prioritize Non-Toxic Paints and Varnishes

Paint and finishes have the power to profoundly impact air quality in any space, which becomes especially crucial when designing spaces for young children. Many traditional paints and stains release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air that have been linked with respiratory ailments, headaches, and long-term health concerns in exposed individuals.

To foster a safer home environment, choose non-toxic, low VOC or no-VOC paints and finishes. These products emit less harmful chemicals, benefitting your indoor air quality while water-based paints dry faster with lower odor levels than their oil-based counterparts allowing you to achieve stunning colors and finishes while protecting children’s health. Choosing non-toxic options for walls, trim and furniture ensures your space will look as stylish as it feels healthy!

Select Durable and Easy-to-Clean Flooring

Children tend to put floors through considerable wear and tear. Selecting appropriate flooring materials is critical in creating a child-friendly environment. Hardwood is often chosen due to being both sturdy and easy to keep clean, though softer woods such as pine may scratch easily in high-traffic areas compared to harder varieties like oak or maple that better tolerate wear and tear.

Vinyl or laminate flooring are great ways to increase durability for families with young children; both are resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture damage and easy to keep clean, essential features when dealing with messy environments like playrooms. Consider even better cushioning in playroom areas such as carpet tiles made with stain-resistant materials which may provide soft surfaces that reduce the risk of falls.

Cork flooring can also be an eco-friendly choice that makes space safe and comfy for children’s spaces, being naturally hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and soft on their feet, features that make it the ideal option. In addition, its renewable nature means less environmental waste is generated during its production. 

Image source

Choose Safe and Practical Countertop Materials

Countertops should also be carefully considered when creating a child-friendly home, given how children often spend time in both kitchens and bathrooms.

Quartz countertops make an excellent addition to homes with children, thanks to being nonporous and being resistant to staining and scratches while also not needing any sealing! Plus they come in various colors and patterns, helping you create modern looks while remaining long-term solutions.

Solid surface countertops provide another viable option, being non-porous and easily repairable if damaged. All countertops should have rounded edges, especially with toddlers and small children, in order to prevent serious injuries. 

Incorporate Child-Friendly Textiles and Upholstery

Textiles and upholstery materials often get neglected when discussing child-safe materials, yet they play an essential part in creating an inviting home environment for kids. Children will likely interact with furniture and fabrics often. Therefore, it’s key that parents select durable and easy-care fabrics that do not contain toxic substances that could pose potential threats.

Upholstery fabrics should be stain-resistant and easy to wipe clean, such as synthetic fiber performance fabrics that repel liquids or resist stains; leather is another long-term durable and simple-to-maintain choice, though over time scratches may occur.

Soft furnishings like curtains, rugs, and cushions should preferably feature textiles made of non-toxic natural materials like organic cotton or wool that do not contain harmful chemicals and thus reduce allergic responses. Furthermore, machine-washable options make cleanup much simpler in case of spills or accidents.

Bottom Line

Selecting child-friendly materials doesn’t need to mean forgoing style or sophistication when building your new home. Working closely with a custom home building company and prioritizing safety, durability, and ease of maintenance when choosing materials means creating spaces both beautiful and practical for your family.

From non-toxic paints and flooring materials to safe countertops and textiles, everything can be designed keeping in mind how well they will support children as their family expands. An attentive approach ensures your new home remains a safe environment as the family expands!

The post How to Choose Child-Friendly Materials for Your Home Build appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Who is a Custodial Parent and How Do They Differ from a Non-Custodial Parent?

In child custody matters, the court gives two different kinds of roles to both parents. Each role will decide how much responsibility each of the parents should handle and who has the right to make decisions on behalf of the child. Understanding these roles will guide you through the custody process and keep the best interest of the child your focus.

The Difference Between a Custodial and Non-Custodial Parent

The custodial parent is the chief physical custodian of the child, meaning that the child lives with the parent most of the time. This parent is deeply involved in daily life with the child, having to deal with his day-to-day needs, everything from meals to extracurricular activities, even bedtime routines.

By contrast, a non-custodial parent is one who does not have primary physical custody, whereby the child does not stay with them on a full-time basis. Usually, this parent has visitations or time-sharing with the child on certain schedules. Even though they may be very involved in the child’s life, that involvement tends to be at more limited, specific times rather than being day-to-day in nature.

Decision-Making Power

With legal custody, the custodial parents are accorded the right to decide on major issues relating to the wards’ lives, which also include their medical condition and religious education. This can either be sole, with the custodial parent solely having the decision-making powers, or joint, where both parents are entrusted with the responsibility.

On the other hand, a non-custodial parent has joint legal custody, giving him or her the right to be involved in each important decision concerning the child. Still, their role in those decisions tends to become peripheral as compared with the custodial parent. Although they will give their input, the final authority lies with the custodial parent, especially when it comes to day-to-day issues.

Time-Sharing and Visitation

The custodial parent is responsible for the child’s living arrangements and generally manages the child’s schedule, including school, activities, and social engagements. This parent ensures that the child’s routine is consistent and stable, providing a sense of security and continuity.

In contrast, the non-custodial parent usually has scheduled visitation or time-sharing rights, which are established by court orders or mutual agreements. These visitations provide the non-custodial parent with designated times to spend with the child, but do not include daily management or continuous supervision.

Child Support Responsibilities

Custodial parents may receive child support payments from the non-custodial parent to assist with the financial costs of raising the child. This support helps cover expenses such as schooling, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. The custodial parents manage these resources to ensure the child’s needs are met consistently.

In contrast, non-custodial parents are often responsible for paying child support. This obligation is determined based on their income and other relevant factors. The child support payments are intended to contribute to the child’s financial needs and ensure that the custodial parent has the necessary resources to provide for the child, even though they do not live with them full-time.

Access to Information

Custodial parents have direct access to all relevant information regarding the child’s health, education, and well-being. They make decisions based on the information readily available to them due to their daily involvement in the child’s life.

Non-custodial parents also have the right to access important information about their child, such as school records and medical details. However, this access can be limited in certain cases, such as those involving safety concerns or legal restrictions. Despite their right to information, their involvement in these areas is often less immediate than that of the custodial parent.

Cooperation and Communication

Custodial parents are obliged to cooperate with the non-custodial parent concerning visitation schedules and decision-making processes. To this end, proper communication and cooperation will be of vital importance, ensuring that the child’s needs are met and that their best interests are prioritized.

Non-custodial parents should communicate effectively and follow the visitation schedule for children. It’s in their best interest that stability and consistency come into the child’s life, ensuring that their time with the custodial parent and the non-custodial parent is as harmonious and supportive as possible.

The post Who is a Custodial Parent and How Do They Differ from a Non-Custodial Parent? appeared first on Geek Mamas .

4 Simple Ways to Unwind After a Long Day – Geek Mama Edition

From online games to geeky fun, here’s how to take a well-deserved break.

As a geek mama, we all know how busy life can be. One moment you’re juggling work, the next you’re dashing around on the daily grind of chores – life is hard, but it certainly is what you make it. The best part about anyone’s day tends to be those smaller moments where you find yourself that little bit of “me” time, and that’s exactly why we’re here today. My blogs are about the wild and wonderful world of the geeks, mixed with some fun, and little tips on how to unwind and relax.

Taking a break doesn’t have to be as complicated as you think; sometimes a few moments here and there can all contribute to that overarching feel of Zen. We understand that not every person can book the day off work to get going on their favorite adventures, so we’re here to talk about all things simplicity. In this blog, we’re going to explore four super simple (and fun) ways to relax after a long day while making sure to cover all the bases.

1. Play a comfort game

Starting steady and simple, one of the best things you can do to unwind and have some fun is the lovely world of video games. Nothing truly beats sneaking off into a quiet room away from the loud noises in the house to go and unwind with a game. Whether you’re a Zelda lover or prefer the relaxing adventure of Animal Crossing, there are so many games on the market that offer the perfect way to chill out. The best part about video games is that you can play them at your own pace, whether you have ten quick minutes or a lucky hour to spare. You’re not racing against the clock; it’s just you, your game, and a peaceful environment that’s on YOUR terms.

2. Online video poker

One of the best ways for geek mamas to truly unwind and let their hair down is to dabble in some online video poker. First up, you do NOT have to leave the house for this (winner-winner). The joy of playing online video poker games is that it brings with it a whole different level of mental stimulation. It requires low effort, while being a fantastic way to relax after work.

Unlike many other online games, video poker is the perfect combination of fun, without having to spend hours at a physical table. You can pick up your phone for a few moments, and take a break whenever you want. It provides a true break from everyday life, and guess what else? It can be played no matter where you are in the world! Whether you’re lounging in bed, on the work commute, or taking a break in between the crazy of your day — online video poker is an easily accessible form of entertainment for everyone.

3. Geeky TV shows or movies

In our opinion, nothing can truly beat the glow you get from watching a good, classic movie. You could give yourself and your family a whole day of geeky movie marathons, grab loads of snacks, and snuggle into the sofa for however long you like. And after a long day at work, there is nothing better than kicking back with your family and indulging in some fan-favorite sci-fi, fantasy, or superhero action movies. Our personal choices are either Star Trek for some OG sci-fi classics or Doctor Who for a little bit of drama. Either way, binge-worthy geeky shows are the perfect way to spend any lazy Sunday.

4. Craft or DIY

For the creative geeks among us who don’t like too much screen time, you can always jump on the DIY bandwagon. Crafting is less intense than many other hobbies, and it is still a brilliant way to both relax and tap into a whole new side of you. You can knit away at a Harry Potter scarf or craft some fandom birthday cards for the events coming up in your life – the possibilities are endless with crafting because it’s all in the eye of the perceiver.

The best bit? You don’t have to have a knack for DIY either! Even if you’re a complete newbie to this wild world, you can log into YouTube and devour some of the millions of videos that are on offer. You can make anything, from DIY phone cases with Star Wars characters to wall art for your family home. There is so much to do in the world of craft, and it gives you a well-earned break from your phone. Perfect!

The best part about finding new hobbies in life’s quiet moments is that it’s completely up to you. No matter what you decide to spend your free time on, it’s the fact that it gives you a chance to unwind, relax, and service your own needs before anyone else’s that really counts.

The post 4 Simple Ways to Unwind After a Long Day – Geek Mama Edition appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Deadpool & Wolverine: Disney’s Not for Kids Anymore

Disney’s name has always been synonymous with “family friendly,” but things have certainly taken a turn as they acquire new franchises, which now includes the very R-Rated Deadpool.

The latest installment Deadpool & Wolverine is now available at digital retailers, on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD. I was sent a free code to review the movie and let my 9-year-old son watch it with me.

Why? Because kids love Deadpool. Plus, he’s already watched the first two, so I couldn’t deny him the third one, even though they seemed to have ratcheted the violence, f-bombs, sex jokes and gore up a notch.

Watch Deadpool & Wolverine on Amazon

I’m not sure if little girls love him, but the little boys sure do. My son has already asked to be Deadpool for Halloween, and last year I saw lots of little Deadpools running around.

He says funny stuff, even if they don’t get all the jokes. He wise-cracks and dances around, and he’s a total badass that regenerates and can’t die. Plus, not only does he carry big guns, but he has two Katanas on his back. Who else has swords AND guns? I can’t blame them for thinking he’s cool.

Watching Deadpool & Wolverine with Kids

First, I highly do not recommend this movie for family night. Yes, I let my son watch it, but it’s not his first Deadpool. I was even hesitant about him watching it, while we were watching it.

And before going into it, I told him there would be a lot of cursing that he better not repeat, and lots of jokes that he’s not going to get and I’m not going to explain!

“Deadpool & Wolverine” is officially rated R for strong bloody violence, language, gore, and sexual references. And there is plenty of everything! So much blood, gore and violence that it just seemed like they were trying too hard to be as gross and bloody as possible. Deadpool would probably make a joke here about overcompensating for something.

The story is a little all over the place, with trying to cram as many cameos in as possible and bringing in a lot of random characters. Deadpool now works a normal job, and his life is a bit boring. Then the TVA gets involved and Paradox mixes things up with a Time Ripper, so Deadpool suits up again to try and save the world, but this time he needs the help of one specific guy- Wolverine.

Unfortunately, he finds the “worst Wolverine” who let everyone down in his own timeline. Lots of bloody fighting ensues, we get to meet a lot of variants in the Void, they bring back some old characters and introduce a new face- Channing Tatum as Gambit.

What’s the Deal with Gambit

Gambit’s outfit, thick Cajun accent and explosive playing cards caused lots of questions from the 9-year-old. The whole thing was a bit comical, and I wasn’t sure if that’s how it was supposed to be, or if we were supposed to take him seriously.

Maybe it would have been different if it wasn’t Magic Mike sounding like the Ragin’ Cajun, but it was hard to watch and not laugh a bit. I couldn’t help but think of Brad Pitt with the indecipherable Irish tinker accent in Snatch, although he pulled that character off a bit better than Tatum as Gambit.

His outfit with the funky headpiece is not the greatest. My son wanted to know if he’d “been in a car accident” because of the “weird thing around his neck.”

I told him that was just his outfit, and he continued to question his fashion choices.

He did enjoy his exploding playing cards but questioned why he was using a “light saber” when he pulled out his glowing staff.

But Was It Good?

If you like Deadpool, then you’ll like the movie. It’s got some good parts, and a bit of heart mixed in with all the violence and cursing. I wouldn’t say the movie overall is my favorite, but it does have my new favorite Deadpool- Peggy, a real-life pug and Chinese crested mix and winner of Britain’s Ugliest Dog award, who stars as Dogpool.

Watch Deadpool & Wolverine on Amazon

The post Deadpool & Wolverine: Disney’s Not for Kids Anymore appeared first on Geek Mamas .

How to Include Loved Ones Who Are Far Away or Gone in Photos to Capture the Whole Family

Family portraits are a treasure. They capture moments that we want to hold onto forever. But sometimes a family member is missing. Maybe they live far away or perhaps they’re no longer with us. Luckily, you don’t have to settle for an incomplete photo. With the help of photo editors, you can easily include people in your pictures. If you’re curious how to edit a picture to add someone, let’s dive in!

The Art of Adding Someone Else to Existing Photographs

Once you have your photos ready, it’s time to start editing. Here’s how to do it while keeping everything natural and harmonious:

Gather photos. Make sure you have a clear and high-quality image of the person you want to add. Ideally, this picture should match the lighting and angle of the family portrait you want to include the person in. Open photo editing software. We’ll use PhotoWorks. This program is user-friendly and designed for beginners, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. Just download the installation package from the official website to get started.Upload the portrait of the family member you want to add to the program. Use the Open Photo button to load this image. Cut this person out of the original background of the photo. Switch to the Tools tab and pick the Change Background tool. Mark the person with the green brush and the background with the red one. The tool will automatically erase the backdrop. Fine-tune the selection manually if needed. Add that person to your family portrait. Click the Select Background Image button and use Load My Own to add the family portrait as the background. Resize and move the person to find the perfect spot. Match their photo colors to the rest of the image for a better blend.Save the result. Once everything looks good, download the updated family portrait in a preferred image format.Special Occasions for Adding People to Photos

Life can sometimes throw a wrench in family plans, leaving a beloved member absent from the frame. Here are some situations when you might need to include someone in your portraits.

Refreshing Family Portraits

Families grow, evolve, and sometimes fragment. As children move on to higher education or new faces are welcomed into the circle, capturing an updated family portrait can be challenging. The digital integration of a distant member proves invaluable in preserving the narrative of your family’s history, even when physical presence is untenable.

Commemorating Loved Ones

Losing a loved one is a sorrow. Memorial photographs serve as a beautiful honor to their legacy. By creating a tribute piece that features your clan alongside the deceased member, especially during family gatherings or anniversaries, you enshrine their essence in your family chronicles. Adding the likeness of the beloved one ensures that their spirit will endure in cherished memories.

Designing Holiday Greeting Cards

The holidays bring a sense of togetherness, but they can also magnify the absence of loved ones. If a family member cannot join in the festivities, consider creating a holiday card that includes everyone. This approach not only spreads warmth and joy but also acknowledges that despite their absence, they are forever in your hearts.

Announcing Graduation

Graduation is a significant milestone in a family’s life. If a sibling or parent cannot attend the ceremony, include them in the announcement photo to honor their importance in the graduate’s journey. This thoughtful gesture transforms the announcement into a more profound and complete tribute.

Wrapping Up

Crafting a family portrait that embraces all — particularly those who cannot be present — is a heartwarming tribute to familial bonds. With user-friendly tools like PhotoWorks, the art of adding a loved one to an image has never been more accessible.

Whether intended for holiday greetings, memorials, or simply to merge the family unit, such portraits evolve into timeless keepsakes. So, gather your photos and get started! Remember, every family picture tells a story, and now, yours can include everyone who matters.

The post How to Include Loved Ones Who Are Far Away or Gone in Photos to Capture the Whole Family appeared first on Geek Mamas .

The Financial Benefits of Working with Experienced Solar Installers

As solar energy continues to gain popularity worldwide, many homeowners and businesses are increasingly turning to solar panels to reduce energy costs and decrease their environmental footprint.

While cutting costs by attempting a do-it-yourself installation or hiring low-cost installers is tempting, working with experienced solar installers can provide numerous long-term financial benefits. From maximizing energy efficiency to navigating tax incentives, partnering with seasoned professionals ensures you get the most out of your solar investment.

We will explore the financial advantages of collaborating with experienced solar installers at https://northvalleysolarpower.com/location/tracy-ca/, shedding light on how this partnership can help you save money in the long run.

Optimizing Energy Efficiency for Maximum Savings

One of the primary financial benefits of working with experienced solar installers is their ability to optimize your system’s energy efficiency. Properly installed solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate monthly electricity bills.

However, the system must be designed and installed correctly to achieve maximum energy savings. Experienced installers deeply understand how solar panels function and know how to position them optimally based on your location, roof structure, and energy consumption patterns.

By ensuring that the panels are installed at the correct angle and in the optimal direction, these professionals help you generate the most electricity possible from your system. This means that, over the lifetime of your solar installation, you can achieve substantial savings on your energy bills.

Moreover, experienced installers can advise you on the solar system size and type that best fits your energy needs. Many homeowners may either underestimate or overestimate the size of the system required to power their home, leading to inefficient energy usage or wasted money on unnecessary capacity.

By thoroughly assessing your energy consumption, an experienced installer ensures that you invest in a system tailored to your needs, providing you with long-term savings by maximizing the efficiency of your solar panels.

Navigating Financial Incentives and Tax Breaks

Another significant financial benefit of working with experienced solar installers is their knowledge of available financial incentives, rebates, and tax credits. Many governments and local municipalities offer substantial incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable energy systems like solar power.

However, these incentives’ eligibility criteria and application process can be complicated and time-consuming. An experienced installer will be familiar with the paperwork and procedures required to access these financial benefits, ensuring you don’t miss out on potential savings.

Federal tax credits, for instance, can reduce the upfront costs of installing solar panels by a significant percentage. Additionally, many states and municipalities offer rebates that further lower the cost of solar systems. In some regions, net metering programs allow homeowners to sell excess electricity generated by their solar panels back to the grid, providing a consistent source of income.

Navigating these opportunities on your own can be challenging. Still, experienced installers often have the expertise to guide you through the process smoothly, helping you maximize your investment return.

Working with seasoned professionals also means that your system will likely meet all the regulatory requirements, ensuring you remain eligible for these financial incentives. Any errors in the installation process could disqualify you from receiving certain rebates or tax credits, costing you thousands of dollars in lost savings.

By working with an experienced installer, you can rest assured that your system will be installed correctly and receive the full benefits of any available financial incentives.

Reducing Maintenance Costs and Avoiding Expensive Repairs

Another key financial advantage of working with experienced solar installers is the reduced need for maintenance and repairs. While solar panels are generally low-maintenance, poor installation can lead to issues such as water leaks, electrical malfunctions, and inefficient power generation.

These issues can be costly to repair and may even shorten the lifespan of your solar system. Experienced installers can help you avoid these expensive repairs and maintenance costs by ensuring that the system is installed correctly the first time.

Experienced installers also offer warranties on both labor and equipment, providing additional financial protection in case something goes wrong. These warranties often cover repair and replacement costs for several years after installation, offering peace of mind and saving you money on potential future maintenance. Additionally, a well-installed system is more likely to last for its full projected lifespan, ensuring you get the maximum return on your investment.

Furthermore, many experienced installers offer ongoing maintenance services to keep your system operating at peak efficiency. Routine inspections, cleaning, and performance checks help to identify potential issues before they become costly problems. By investing in these maintenance services, you can extend the life of your system and ensure that it continues to deliver substantial savings on your energy bills.

Working with experienced solar installers offers many financial benefits beyond reducing energy bills. From optimizing energy efficiency to navigating complex tax incentives and increasing your property value, the expertise of a seasoned installer can help you maximize your return on investment in a solar energy system.

Additionally, by ensuring proper installation and minimizing the risk of costly repairs, experienced installers can save you money in the long run. As solar energy continues to grow in popularity, partnering with an experienced professional ensures that you enjoy both immediate and long-term financial savings.

The post The Financial Benefits of Working with Experienced Solar Installers appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Spooky Treats and Fall Flavors with TokyoTreat and Sakuraco

Ever wonder what Halloween is like in Japan? This month TokyoTreat serves up all treats and no tricks with a Halloween themed box, while Sakuraco brings up the flavors of Fall.

TokyoTreat and Sakuraco are uniquely themed Japanese snack boxes, where you get up to 20 snacks delivered to your door each month. You can also do single boxes and send them as gifts!

The best deals are on the subscription, so be sure to use my links and code SEWGEEKMAMA to save $5 off your first box: Click here for TokyoTreat and here for Sakuraco.

TokyoTreat Snacktastic Halloween

The October TokyoTreat Snacktastic Halloween box is filled with limited edition wacky snacks for the spooky season experience. This month’s special Halloween box captures all the thrill of Japan’s haunted holiday with sweet and savory treats like KitKat Apple Pie, Spooky Spicy Crackers, Ghost Gummies, a Halloween Fruit Juice Potion and many more!

Halloween in Japan has become a vibrant celebration focused on costumes, parties, and themed events rather than traditional Western customs like trick-or-treating. The holiday is embraced by Japan’s love for cosplay, with people dressing in elaborate costumes ranging from spooky characters to anime figures.

Cities like Tokyo host massive street gatherings, such as the famous Shibuya Halloween party, where thousands gather in costume. Halloween-themed events at places like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan are hugely popular, offering festive parades, decorations, and special treats.

Though trick-or-treating is rare, stores across Japan fill with Halloween-themed snacks and merchandise, making the season fun for families and adults alike. TokyoTreat brings these snacks straight to you from Japan!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Candy Keane (@sewgeekmama)

Sakuraco: Colors of Kyoto

This month, as autumn descends upon Kyoto, Sakuraco invites you this month to savor the rich flavors of the season, where tradition and taste meet. Delight in authentic treats and seasonal specialties that embody the beauty of Kyoto’s autumn and its enduring cultural heritage.

Authentic Snack highlights: Kyoto Arare, Kitsune Senbei, Yuzu Dorayaki, the Matcha Chocolate Crunch, and
many more. This month’s tableware item is the Floral Kamon Yumoni (Japanese tea cup). Perfect for sipping your special Gio Tsuijiri Sencha from Kyoto, which is this month’s featured tea.

Be sure to use my links and code SEWGEEKMAMA to save $5 off your first box: Click here for TokyoTreat and here for Sakuraco.

The post Spooky Treats and Fall Flavors with TokyoTreat and Sakuraco appeared first on Geek Mamas .

Platterful Makes a Beautiful Charcuterie Easy

Are you ready to put together a drool-worthy charcuterie board? Platterful, the first all-in-one charcuterie kit, makes it easy with everything you need delivered right to your door!

Your box also comes with step-by-step instructions and hints to take your board to the next level. They even have unique themed kits available for the holidays.

Platterful sent me their Large Charcuterie Board Kit in exchange for a review, and it was a big hit at a little gathering of friends. Read on to learn all the details about this unique subscription box!

DIY Charcuterie in a Box

Your Platterful box arrives with everything securely packed, and your meats and cheeses are kept cool with ice packs. My kit came with three cheeses, two meats, crackers, honey, fig spread, mustard, nuts, olives and chocolate.

The instructions suggested adding strawberries and rosemary, which I happen to have on hand.

The cheeses and meats included are really nice choices, as are the accompaniments. They also send little bowls and spoons for the spreads, and a little honeycomb dipper for the honey.

The instruction card included tells you step-by-step how to place everything on your board. If you don’t already have a board, they do have them for purchase on the website, along with cheese knives.

If you are more of a visual learner, just use the QR code on the instructions and you can watch a video of how to put everything together. That’s also where you’ll find the “Pairs Well With” and an “Artisan Spotlight” for each box that show you what adult beverage would go well with the flavors in the kit.

I found it really easy to follow the directions, and I definitely learned a little about how to set up my boards in the future. They start with cheese placement, then meats and crackers. It also shows you how to fold the meats for display.

Get a Platterful Subscription or Send a Delicious Gift

There are several different options offered on the website, from single deliveries to monthly subscriptions. You can also send them as a gift. They even have gluten-free and vegan options.

You just choose your kit size (standard or large) and then select whether you want a one-time order or a subscription. You can also select a three or six month prepaid subscription, which allow for additional savings.

Click here to check out all their kits and subscription options.

I was impressed by their secure shipping, where everything arrived fresh and not even one broken cracker! I also felt that everything very high quality. The price is also very fair – To go out and purchase each item individually, it would add up to close to what the box costs, but without going to the store and finding each item.

You can try a delicious DIY charcuterie yourself at www.TryPlatterful.com

Take a Spin with Platterful

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Geek Mamas (@geekmamasblog)

The post Platterful Makes a Beautiful Charcuterie Easy appeared first on Geek Mamas .

SHEIN Using Stolen Cosplay Photos for Wigs

SHEIN has always been a little shady, with accusations of stolen designs, but now they’ve been exposed using stolen cosplay photos for wig listings.

This was recently brought to attention by make-up artist and cosplayer Sydney Nicole Addams, who discovered two of her photos being used without permission on SHEIN. She posted two screenshots on Threads, showing her photos with a long black and white wig, and another with a long red wig.

She had never submitted the photos to SHEIN or given them permission to use her photos.

On last check, the black and white wig was still there:

SHEIN Stealing Designs and Photos

SHEIN has long been accused of stealing fashion designs, but this is the first time I’ve seen the stolen photos issue. And Addams isn’t the only one with this issue.

On her Threads post, another person shared the profile for the artist Freshcuttery, who has found her designs copied and her own photos used on both SHEIN and Temu. According to her profile, she’s had little success getting her copyrighted designs removed.

Another post mentioned someone’s stolen design being sold, along with a link to their Etsy profile with the instructions and video on how to use the item.

How to Report Copyright Infringement to SHEIN

SHEIN does make it easy to report a copyright infringement, both with a direct e-mail and form. A quick search online or their site will bring up their policy page which states:

“Thank you for your love of SHEIN. SHEIN respects all kinds of original designs and is determined to combat all kinds of damage to our rights. You are welcome to contact us through copyright@shein.com to provide details of the problem, pictures etc. We will verify and follow up the case in a timely manner.

For more information, you are also welcome to visit our Copyright Notice.”

The Copyright Notice page has all the info you need on what can be reported and how to report it. It also has a direct e-mail should you want to deliver a Cease and Desist letter.

Alternatively, you may send a notice of claimed infringement with the foregoing information to us_legal@sheingroup.com with the subject “Takedown Request” or to the following address:

Copyright Agent, Legal Department

SHEIN US Services, LLC

777 S. Alameda St., 2nd Floor

Los Angeles, CA 90021-1672

You can also fill out this form online: SHEIN copyright infringement

Are Photos Posted Online Fair Game?

Many people replied to Addams’ Threads post saying she had no legal recourse because she had shared her photos online, without a watermark. This is not true.

Photos that you post on social media are generally copyrighted to you, the creator, as soon as you take the photos, according to copyright laws in most countries. You don’t need to register for copyright protection; ownership is automatic even if you never register for a copyright. So SHEIN does not have permission to use the stolen cosplay photos on their website.

However, when you upload images to social media platforms, the terms of service you agree to may give the platform certain rights to use, modify, or share your content, but this doesn’t transfer ownership of the copyright or give third parties permission to use it.

Here are some key points:

Ownership: You own the copyright to any photos you take and post. This gives you control over how they’re used, reproduced, and distributed.Terms of Service: Most social media platforms have terms of service that grant them a license to use your photos. For example, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter require you to give them permission to use, display, and share your photos, often as part of their advertising or promotional efforts.Third-Party Use: If someone else wants to use your photos without your permission, they would need to get your consent unless it’s covered by fair use (such as for commentary or criticism). Unauthorized use of your photos by others could be considered copyright infringement.Steps You Can Take to Secure Your Photos

The main method of stopping your photos from being stolen is to watermark them. Watermarking a photo means adding a visible or sometimes semi-transparent mark, usually text or a logo, to an image to indicate ownership or protect it from unauthorized use.

The watermark is typically placed over the image in a way that makes it harder for someone to use the photo without your permission while still keeping the content visible. Unfortunately, the most effective watermarking usually takes away from the view of the image, as shown in the example below.

A simple watermark is usually your name or website in text in a small portion of the image, placed in a way that it doesn’t detract from the presentation. The only issue is that this is also very easy to crop our or erase if they really want to use the photo.

The bottom line is that if you post photos online, there’s always a chance they will be stolen and used for purposes you never intended. I’ve had my own photos stolen and used for a fake Tinder profile!

The only thing you really can do is be vigilant, watermark when you can, and take the steps to report it if you find your copyright is being infringed upon.

The post SHEIN Using Stolen Cosplay Photos for Wigs appeared first on Geek Mamas .