Many of us realize that if we are to make any progress in reducing our carbon footprint and energy use, it has to start at a personal level just like Ed Begely and Bill Nye did. It's really up to you and me to do something and certainly not the government or the politicians. The government is quite capable of getting it's own house in order. In fact, the Administration might take some cues from the three carbon calculators to determine their agency's carbon footprint and energy consumption and also two distinct paths to take to control them.

Recently I received a letter from President Barack Obama and the Democratic National Committee requesting funds to rebuild and renew America. One of the goals of these bold plans is to transform America's economy to run on clean and renewable energy. The idea got me thinking on how green can we really go with respect to electricity production and how we would get there without much fanfare.

I really believe that our current approaches on green power are a waste of time. The reality is that we "talk the talk" but can't really "walk the talk." We waste a lot of money and time talking about building large wind and solar energy projects in the middle of no where only to find out that many people don't want them or the power lines to get the power where it's needed. Of course, the politicians are not on the front line nor is the government building renewable energy. It's the private sector and that is something to always remember.

I'm sorry President Obama, but until we stop talking and start doing something, I will hold on to my money. Here's my take on where we are and how we could be a lot greener.

Thinking of replacing your existing windows? Don't make that call until you understand the lingo. Replacement windows can mean totally different things depending on who you talk to. The real issue is should you "replace" your existing windows with "replacement windows" or "new construction windows." Confused? We explain the differences and tell you what kind of window you'll need.

To Replace or not Replace your Windows
"Replacement Windows" will not be a good choice if your existing windows don't function well and you can feel the cold or warm air coming in etc. The same holds true if your interior and exterior frames and molding are rotten or damaged by water or insects. If the above is true then go with a "New Construction" window and be prepared to pay a higher price.

Now you might be tempted to just order "replacement windows" for less  money and pocket the change. If you do that you will have makde a big mistake. That's because the installer is not going to go beyond looking at the interior part of the windows. They will not going to examine the drywall or plaster to see if there is enough insulation, or replace insect or water damaged wood etc. around the window. So in essence you'll spend the money and be no better off and not realize all of the benefits.

The art of Hardwood Flooring will bring you a substantial amount of feng-shui into your home by following some very simple steps.