HGTV Green Home

Breathe Easy: Green Home Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality

Posted by kwalters – April 19, 2008 2:10 PM

Spring has sprung, and so have seasonal allergies. Improving indoor air quality can help decrease allergy and asthma symptoms and is an integral part of going green.

The HGTV Green Home has a sophisticated air quality system that balances temperature, vents impurities, controls humidity and filters the air. For more tips on the Green Home's system -- and how you can improve air quality in your home -- read on.

Balanced System – The design and construction team carefully sized the mechanical system and ductwork to deliver the appropriate amount of air to every room. This system monitors temperature, eliminating areas that are too cool or hot. The system also balances humidity to avoid sweaty grilles that can support mold growth.

Efficient Bathroom Exhaust Fans – The exhaust fans are tied to occupancy sensors so they run only when needed to quietly remove unwanted moisture and odors from the home. Learn more about how bathroom exhaust fans improve air quality

GH08-central-vac-system.jpg
Dirt Control – It might seem like simple housekeeping, but providing a place for people to store dirty shoes helps keep a clean environment.

The Green Home's central vacuum system also keeps dirt under control. A study conducted by the University of California at Davis School of Medicine shows how using a central vacuum system can greatly reduce allergy and asthma symptoms.

The hook-up to the central vacuum system is located in the lower right-hand corner of the picture, under the cabinets.

Sealed Garage – The garage is sealed and exhausted separately from the house. This prevents carbon monoxide, water vapor and other contaminants from migrating into living areas.

High-Efficiency Filters
– The system uses high-efficiency filters that remove even the smallest particles from the air. It also includes an ultraviolet air purifier that removes 98% of bacteria.

Want to learn how to improve the air quality in your home? Here are ecologue.com's tips on identifying the sources of indoor air pollution. Also check out greenhomeguide.com's easy steps to cleaner air. For general information on surviving allergy season, visit the Asthma and Allergy Foundation.

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Have you entered for your chance to win the HGTV Green Home today?

See how one small step can make a big difference. Log on to hgtv.com/changetheworld

Ecologue: Green Living Made Easy

Comments 

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Very interesting articles. I do use my vent fans, bath and kitchen. My vaccuum is an Oreck, but a central unit would be really nice to have. Living in Michigan I don't get to open my windows as much as I would like, but I do when I can. And shoes?? Big issue with me, shoes off at the door is my policy, that is why I love the shoe caddy. Good work HGTV, you thought of everything. Thanks again.

Posted by deb – April 19, 2008 4:32 PM

Often, I've always stated, or dreamed if I ever built a new home I'd desire the very kitchen cabinets installed within this beautiful Green Home. The glass in the cabinet doors are just wonderful ! What a desiring kitchen to prepare meals.

Posted by Mitchell Tickle – April 19, 2008 4:53 PM

kwalters: Thank you for your very informative post. Just reading all the amazing inovations made me breathe easier (in my imagination, anyway). When I first took the tour, that cabinet with the pull-out bench and shoe storage made me fall in love with this home. Little did I know what other delights awaited me. Now I realize why the garage does not have an entry directly into the house. The air quality system is amazing. All your other items listed are amazing. I had no idea cleaning could be so much fun (not to mention, easy). HGTV: If you haven't caught on by now, this GREEN HOME is AMAZING. Thank you! I LOVE it! Good luck to all and have pleasant dreams. I know I will.

Posted by Katydid – April 19, 2008 5:52 PM

I knew the moment I saw the hard wood floors in the Green Home that my families allergies would be better in the Green Home than in our home! Then when I saw the vacum system I was possitive! Everything else is iceing on the cake! Great job HGTV! Dreaming of breathing better in my knew home!

Posted by Dana – April 19, 2008 6:35 PM

Hi,
I would like to put a storm water tank in the garden to catch all the storm water so I can then use it on the plants.

I come from australia where they are used extensively but can't find them here in Georgia. As Georgia is in a draught I would have thought more people should use them.

Can you help ?

Posted by Arlaine McPherson – April 19, 2008 9:54 PM

Yes, here I am again. There is nothing else that can be said about this home. Yes, it is amazing, yes, it is beautiful, yes, it is everything (and then some) that anyone could ever "dream" of in a
Green Home. I really appreciate all this information, and really wish everyone good luck. As I said before, if it is meant to be it will be. God bless all, have a wonderful day, and good luck to everyone.

Posted by deb – April 20, 2008 7:35 AM

This home is so well thought out. At our home, everyone removes their shoes at the door, we always have flip-flops in different sizes available. The shoe caddy is just brilliant, or should I say, all the features are brilliant, truly a dream home.

Posted by Lucille – April 20, 2008 9:12 AM

I love the idea of a shoe caddy. My husband and I always take our shoes off at the door, but they look cluttered just sitting there. The central vac system is something I have always wanted (along with one of those robotic vacuums). Good luck everyone!

Posted by Charlene – April 20, 2008 11:03 AM

WE also take our shoes off as soon as we enter our house, never thought of a shoe caddy. Love the home and learn more about being green every day. Good luck to ALL.

Posted by clifton t wilder – April 20, 2008 1:18 PM

I love reading about and taking the tour of the HGTV Green Home regularly. I am very excited about the central vac! Of course, like all of you I imagine myself living there--but the house has also inspired me to be more "green" in my own life. I don't own my home, but I have been doing what I can--changing light bulbs, recycling diligently, and watching what I buy--I love to read the posts--keep them coming--you all have great ideas. Thanks HGTV for the fun--the dreams, and the inspiration!

Posted by Mary – April 21, 2008 12:00 AM

Hello everyone, I was just reading how the green dream home has a "sophisticated air quality system" as you say, that filters the air which insures that impurities don't get in the home. That is another reason that I pray I win this home, I have asthma and it would be a blessing from God to live in this home. Everything about this house is perfect and I am sure we all are praying we win it. God bless us all as we all know it is in his hands. Thanks HGTV for the chance to dream and the opportunity to enter to win this home. Thanks for all you do to help people in all your shows, and for Paula Dean, I am from Albany GA as she is and reading her book brings back memories of the Artic Bear and Krogers Grocery Store in Albany GA. Heres to another wonderful day of watching your shows. Linda

Posted by Linda Fowler – April 21, 2008 12:26 AM

HGTV! Wow, You did it again. This home is a dream come true. I have asthma and my children have several allergies. What a way to improve on a families health. You have thought of everything especially improving our planet by saving on things like electricity. Good Luck to all,
from your HGTV junkie,Emily.

Posted by Emily – April 21, 2008 9:23 AM

Good Monday morning to all. It is supposed to be a pretty day here, finally! Everything is just starting to bud here, but we don't get our hopes up yet. It has been known to get below freezing in May, which takes a toll on all the fresh little buds that pop out. Have a good day everyone, and happy dreaming.

Posted by deb – April 21, 2008 10:20 AM

Good morning----I also love the shoe caddy, it is just beautiful. Our family as well always remove shoes when walking over the house or should the weather be wet outside. I would never place any nasty/smelly shoes in this beautiful designer furniture. Just use the basket underneath, PLEASE !! dee

Posted by dee – April 21, 2008 10:40 AM

What an amazing home! I own a cleaning business in Texas and have taken it completely "green" from the supplies we use to incentives systems where clients can win prizes like free GE Energy Efficient light bulbs, etc. This home has given me tons of great ideas. Hopefully it will inspire everyone to do their part and see how easy it is to live green! I am originally from HHI, so it would be a dream to win this home... but as always, Good Luck to All!!!

Posted by Tracy Madden-Brooks – April 21, 2008 2:02 PM

Yes, it's me again. Just checking to see if any new updates, though I don't see what there could be. I have been reading through the new blogs, and am wishing luck to all. As I said before, if it's meant to be, it will be. Don't forget, tomorrow April 22, 3:00pm - special on the GREEN HOME - HGTV. Happy blogging!!

Posted by deb – April 21, 2008 4:02 PM

Good afternoon everyone!How are you all doing? Are you all dreaming of the Green Home?I am!I wish I was sitting on the screened in porch sipping ice tea watching my husband fish!What about you all?

Posted by Dana – April 21, 2008 4:54 PM

does the bunk bed have railing for the top bed?

Posted by fayobi – April 21, 2008 4:58 PM

HAPPY EARTH DAY EVERYONE UNDER THE SUN !!
Don't forget, "Think Green", "Go Green" !!
HGTV, you all have planted a wonderous beauty both in The Green Home & within Landscaping !!

P.S.)- Plant A Tree Today.

Posted by Tickle – April 21, 2008 5:44 PM

Dear HGTV,
Wow! A Dream Home in Sonoma,California! I LOVE the way that you keep me constantly daydreaming of a new home in a new location! Right now, my dreams are focused on the beautiful Green Home in Hilton Head, S.C. I LOVE the hardwood floors,vibrant wall colors with white trim, and Linda's awesome interior design and accessories! If that dream doesn't come true, I'll still enter every day for Dream Home 09 as soon as that contest begins. Thanks for keeping our dreams alive! You are the best,HGTV!

Posted by IllinoisNancySTILLdaydreamin of winnin in 08 – April 21, 2008 6:01 PM

DEE: Sorry, I just don't get your post. Not all of us have nasty/smelling shoes, unless we have stepped in dog doo-doo (or around here, geese doo-doo), in which case the shoes would not even get through the door until they were clean. And I don't recall seeing a basket underneath. Am I missing something? That shoe caddy was a brilliant idea, and the manufacturer must be making a bundle. Wouldn't work up here in the winter, when guests arrive with boots dripping with snow, but it is perfect for the south and even the north in summer. I just love reading the posts. What a great group of bloggers you are, and I wish all of you the best of luck and pleasant dreams.

Posted by Katydid – April 21, 2008 6:24 PM

Now I really feel dumb. Belatedly clicking on "Shoe Holder in Entry Hall", I find it was designed by our very own (I mean, HGTV's very own), Jack Thomasson. Did you put a copy-right on that design, Jack? Hope your brilliant idea can make you some profit. HGTV, you have such a talented staff, great programs..... we love you and thank you! Pleasant dreams to all.

Posted by Katydid – April 21, 2008 6:50 PM

Just saying good night to the Green Home. Had to see it one more time before I retire. Give me more reason to dream.

Posted by deb – April 21, 2008 8:08 PM

Good morning all. Today at 3:00pm (et), HGTV will be showing the GREEN HOME program. Be sure to watch if you can. The thought, care, ideas, innovations, concerns and just all out everything, that went into this home are nothing short of amazing. And don't forget, this is Earth Week. Let's do all we can to help, no matter how little it may seem to be, if we all try, we can make a difference. Good luck everyone, and happy blogging. It's nice to see and read others thoughts and ideas. Thanks HGTV.

Posted by deb – April 22, 2008 7:50 AM

good morning, i would love to live in the green house, i love everthing about that house, i have so many health problem, and this house is just what i need .

Posted by mary perry – April 22, 2008 9:37 AM

It's EARTH DAY everyone. Actually, it's EARTH WEEK, but it should be EARTH DAY, WEEK, YEAR, all the time. Just a little from everyone, then it catches on and becomes habit. You know, like seat belts in cars????? Now it's just habit. We can do it, and we can do it together. There is so much we can do, and our future generations depend on us.

Posted by deb – April 22, 2008 3:06 PM

I think it would be absolutely wonderful to be able to breath healthy air especially for my two young sons. We've had a complicated, recurring water problem originating from our neighbors homes (I live in a row town house)which has created black mold in our home. The baby had breathing problems and has eczema really bad from allergies. So this home would be a dream come true for me and my family as I'm sure it would be for many other people. To be able to recycle conveniently as well as conserve resources would be a relief. I saw the tour today on TV for the first time. This home is functional, the area looks fun, and it's eco-friendly especially the solar panels which recycle energy and sell it back to the power company for other South Carolina residents - very impressive! Thanks HGTV for an opportunity at such an awesome gift. Dawn S.

Posted by dawn st. amour – April 22, 2008 7:28 PM

Good aftenoon fellow GREEN HOME bloggers!I hope everyone is having a good day! I was just looking at some pictures of this amazing home again. You know it's true what they say, a beautiful kitchen can inspire you! I'm not one who loves cooking,but when I look at this kitchen I can see myself standing at the stove cooking!I love it! I love how it's all open!I don't like washing dishes either but when I think about washing dishes at that sink looking at that view it actually seems pleasant!All I see when I wash dishes now is my nieghbors big ,huge red tips!Another feature I love about this home is all the windows in the living room!I love all that sunlight pouring in!Can you imagine the french doors to the screened porch open and the breeze blowing in?A piece of paradise!Great job HGTV!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – April 23, 2008 1:08 PM

I can see myself in this beautiful home, I hope
I will be able to see this house in person. This
is the most interesting home I have ever seen with all the fixtures and appliances I can see me
living in this home. Posted by Iline prince- APRIL 23, 2008 8:32PM

Posted by iline prince – April 23, 2008 8:35 PM

Dana Dryburgh, you are too funny. Yes, I can imagine standing at that sink, and I, like you love all those windows. I do like to cook, and I could imagine walking or golf carting to town to shop early in the morning, then sitting on that screened porch. I am a morning person, so yes, I could imagine all of it. If I am correct, it would be the sunset we could watch from the porch. AAAHHH, to dream. Hey, it's fun. I wish you and all others lots of luck. Someone is going to be a very blessed and fortunate person. Have a great day.

Posted by deb – April 24, 2008 7:35 AM

My husband and I went to Shelby Farms Park for Earth Day Sunday it was very helpful information day. It made us think about the green home and how wonderful it is that we have programs like HDTV my t.v. stays on all day.


Posted by janetbennett – April 24, 2008 10:21 AM

Deb: Glad I could make you laugh! How's the weather up there? Is it snowing? I haven't watched the weather channel today. It's in the 80's here in S.C. Today I'm dreaming of taking my kids to the community pool! I think I'll get a workout in while I'm there,maybe putt a few pars!How about you?

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – April 24, 2008 4:55 PM

Dana, in answer to your question, the weather in Michigan??? Well, let's see, yesterday it started out at 38*, got into the low 70's. Today, rain and 77* but by next week lows in the high 30's/low 40's and highs in the mid 50's, at least thats what they are saying right now. Lucky you to live in the Carolinas. I love the south, always have, my heart/soul are there, my body is here. Oh well, you make the best of it, I have alot of wonderful friends here who I know would love to come visit me at the Green Home. Oops, there I go dreaming again!!! Have a good day and wishing good luck to everyone.

Posted by deb – April 25, 2008 8:40 AM

Deb: I feel for you. I lived in Michigan for over fifty years, and last June I moved to Tucson,Arizona. I LOVE it here. Right now it is almost 11am and it is 74 degrees. It does get hot here, but, because of the low humidity it feels different than the hot in Michigan. Maybe, some day HGTV will build a dream home in Arizona, lol. In the meantime, I will keep entering for the green home, I'm sure that I would love it in SC, too. This home is absolutely perfect in every way. I've never seen the ocean and have always wanted to, it is a dream of mine before I die (hopefully, a ways off, lol). I still have children and grandchildren in Michigan, so it would be a great place for them to come see me. Good Luck to everyone.

Posted by bird lover – April 25, 2008 1:47 PM

Bird lover, thank you for your sympathies. I know you can relate. My friend of 34 years had a dream to become a registered nurse, move to AZ and work on Indian reservations, she did. Moved to Phoenix, in '78, loved it, accomplished her dream. I have been to AZ to visit her, I do like it there. However, her parents passed and she inherited her childhood home here in MI, so she's back, and she is again helping the underpriviledged. She has been such an inspiration in my life, and get this her email is "econo-logic"...she is very into green. Has started programs in PHX, and working on starting one here in MI. Oh well, I could go on and on, just wanted to acknowledge your comments. Love the heat for me, you would love the ocean, and yes, you must see it. Take care and good luck to you also.

Posted by deb – April 27, 2008 12:32 PM

bird lover: I had to comment about you never seeing the ocean! You MUST see it as soon as possible! I love the mountains but there is something about the ocean! I love walking on the beach with my feet in the sand and water! The ocean breeze blowing in my hair! The palm trees swaying in the wind! The amazing sunrises and sunsets! You look out and see nothing but water and sky that looks like it goes on forever! It reminds me of my creator and where I fit in the scheme of things. It was the main reason I entered this sweepstakes! I live in S.C., two and a half hours away from the beach but I would absolutely love to live twenty minutes away! If I don't win I hope you do so you can see the ocean!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – April 27, 2008 6:06 PM

Dana and deb: Thank you for your kind words. I have always wanted to travel up and down the east coast, just following the ocean. We have palm trees here in Tucson, but, I don't think it is the same. While watching the videos for the dream home it showed different birds and sea life and I was mesmerized. The ocean is truly a gift from God, and all of it's inhabitants are so special. I couldn't even imagine fishing there because it would take a life away from it's beauty. And, the birds!! I have 8 cockitiels and 2 parakeets, and if I had the room there would be many more. I just love birds of every kind, even the ugly ones, lol. But, I live in a tiny one bedroom apartment, so no more for now. Good luck to everyone in winning this GREAT home.

Posted by bird lover – April 27, 2008 10:57 PM

Hello to all, Just had to look at my, hopefully green dream home. We can all dream.... Just one last look tonight before I go to bed, so I can dream I am in the bedroom of the beautiful master bed in the HGTV Dream Home. God Bless us all.
Linda Fowler

Posted by Linda Fowler – April 28, 2008 12:31 AM

Dana, you are after my heart. Your description is 'oh so real'. I could not have put it better, except to say that standing near the ocean puts all things into perspective. Absolutely GODS HAND, and standing on the oceans shore you realize that you are looking at his canvas and his coloring book, what a wonderful artist he is. The ocean never stops. I so wish I lived near the ocean, it is a feeling that can't be put into words, but you did a good job. Palm trees, I love palm trees. I feel so out of place here. But just reading your comments puts a desire so deep in my heart to be where I belong. SOUTH, and near the ocean somewhere. Good luck to everyone, and have a wonderful day.

Posted by deb – April 28, 2008 7:33 AM

The air quality system is wonderful. I have COPD and asthma, so I really appreciate the air being taken into consideration. This is a really great home. Hope I win it!!!

Posted by Teresa – April 28, 2008 9:03 PM

deb: I wasn't joking about how much I love the ocean and the beach! My whole bedroom and master bath is decorated in the beach theme! I have sheers on the windows in my bedroom so that when the windows are open and there's a breeze or the fan is on ,the sheers blow in the wind and I pretend I'm at the ocean! I also have a sleep cd with the ocean waves on it to put me to sleep! I tell you, I got it bad! If I win my husband will have to drag me off the beach!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – April 28, 2008 10:28 PM

Dana, I am smiling from ear to ear. I have the same cd!! I have pictures of a little boy and little girl on a beach listening to seashells, an egret with tropical flowers, and a picture of a seashell in my bath. In my bedroom, I have a handpainted water color I bought at Homassassa Springs, Florida (by one of the local artists) of the natural coast of Florida, it's just a small picture, but I look at it often and dream. My God girl, we do have it bad. You do have me beat though. Too, too, funny. Good luck honey.

Posted by deb – April 29, 2008 6:34 PM

We live in Wisconsin and have endured the greatest snowfall record in a single year (over 100"). Long, long winter! Spring is just now beginning to sprout. As plants appear from beneath the ground and the trees begin to bud, I can't help but let it remind me of the urgent need to practice with diligence "Going Green". The HGTV Green Home is a very beautiful perfect example of all that is possible to live in harmony with our environment. It is also a great inspiration of what we can do within our own homes and communities to live green and save the wonderful place we call home - EARTH!

Posted by Dawn Wachtendonk – April 30, 2008 10:10 AM

The shoe cabinet is fabulous, I am always out of my shoes the minute I walk in the door. House slippers are waiting there for me. It would be so nice to not have to wear winter boots, coats, gloves, etc., just to get the mail. No, I am not a winter person. It's pretty..the first snowfall, but heck, I have always said, I can look at a pretty picture!!!! Have a fantastic day everyone.

Posted by deb – May 1, 2008 8:28 AM

deb, I agree 100%! Every winter I hope for snow but I just like looking at it! I wish for 3 inches,no more,and I want it gone by the next day!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – May 1, 2008 4:26 PM

Living in a 1914 rental--my home is the opposite of efficient and healthy. It is charming and cute, but because it is not mine, I have only been able to make small changes. The Green Home is a dream come true!! I am especially excited about all the ways the Green Home helps keep the air healthy. Now, if I could just get my landlord to make some of those changes! Good luck to all--only days away...

Posted by Mary – May 2, 2008 12:24 AM

I love it all!!

Posted by deb – May 2, 2008 7:29 AM

I was just thinking of all the wonderful ways HGTV has made the air quality in this home so much better than the air quality is in my home now! My husband and I are constantly blowing our noses! We really shoud have stock in KLEENEX! I feel that we woukdn't have to blow our noses as much in the GREEN HOME! What a blessing that would be!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – May 2, 2008 1:25 PM

Who doesn't love good, clean, fresh air. The minute I am able to, my windows are open, just to get some fresh air in after being cooped up all winter.

Posted by deb – May 4, 2008 8:30 PM

I want this home. Yes, I know, so does everyone else. Good luck everyone.

Posted by deb – May 5, 2008 5:03 PM

Tropical balmy breezes, palm trees swaying, the smell of the ocean, the warmth of the sun, and living in this 'Green Home'. Life just couldn't get any better than that!!

Posted by deb – May 7, 2008 7:41 AM

deb: I am like you, I love to have my windows open, with a breeze coming thru. Even here in Tucson, where the temp can get pretty high, I have to have my windows open. I live in a small one bedroom apt. so only have one window in the bedroom, and a sliding door in the living room, but, keep them open as much as I can. I hope to someday visit the ocean and feel the breezes coming off of it. That's my dream. Of course winning this home is a dream, too. Good luck to every one and have a SUPER GREAT DAY!!!!!

Posted by bird lover – May 7, 2008 1:11 PM

bird lover, if you ever get the chance to stand at the oceans shore, barefoot on the edge as the tide comes and goes, you feel the sand wash from under your feet and just watch the ocean, you realized what an amazing God we have. It puts things into perspective, the oceans never stop. To know the life that lives in the oceans, you realize how very important it is to just living. I can only say that it is breathtaking, it is amazing, and it is awesome. Good luck to you.

Posted by deb – May 8, 2008 9:14 AM

Amazing!!!! I truly love this home. It is perfect for me and my family. I live in Conway/Myrtle Beach, SC. Hilton Head is beautiful. I love Hilton Head and the surrounding area. I am a conservationist, have been for the past 27 years, but especially for the past 17 years when I started actually working with a soil & water conservation agency. I love being part of preserving natural resources and being eco-friendly. I am always thinking about the environment and doing my part to conserve our natural resources. I actually think (and pray) about this home before I go to bed at night. I have the sunset from your HGTV website that was taken from the house view as my desktop background. I keep changing it about every other week of the other photos of the house. Keep imagining me and my family on the porch or by the fire pit. I really would love to live in this green home. Who better to live in a green home than a conservationist. That's me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I do wish everyone else luck, but I am praying that I will win this one because it fits me and my personality PERFECTLY. I also have some beautiful antique green wine glasses with a crystal bottom that would look lovely on the dining table. My daughter has a nice collection of dolphins that would look nice in the bunk room especially since the bunk beds have dolphins carve on the ends. Honestly this home was made for me and my family. I would give the home the honor it deserves. I have been imagining having so many family members over. My mom has had a tough time with cancer for the past 10 years. She and I, myself are cancer survivors. I would love for her to come and visit for a week or longer and just sit around the fire pit relaxing under the moonlit nights. Of course, my girl friends would love to come down and spend a week or weekend with me. Already been dreaming about that also. Would give the hybrid to my daughter since she is at USC in Columbia, SC. She needs a energy - efficient vehicle when she comes down on the weekends, especially the way gas prices are now. Oh well, better close. Wish everyone luck and God Bless.

Posted by Nina (new) – May 8, 2008 11:47 AM

deb: I hope that I get to see the ocean someday and feel the water squishing thru my toes, and feel the incredible breeze. But, if I don't, then I can stand by the River of Life in Heaven and feel the same exquisite sensations. I wish you all the luck in winning the 'green home', and the best for the future. God Bless.

Posted by bird lover – May 8, 2008 1:15 PM

bird lover, I so hope you get to see the ocean in person and stand on the shore! Keep up your positive outlook though, you are a gem!!!! I will miss blogging with you and deb, Southern Lady,katydid and Lisa B..Remember to say hello to us if you win!!!!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – May 8, 2008 3:58 PM

bird lover, you are so right about that, amen. I thought of you this morning. I was sitting here and opened up my blinds next to my desk, and noticed something outside the window. It was a hummingbird. I have 3 hummingbird feeders, and I just saw a red headed woodpecker on my other bird feeder. I have also seen 2 wild turkeys in the last week. Yes, I have woods around me. Deer, raccoon, oppossum, you name it, it is exciting to see them live in their natural environment. But I would much rather live in the 'Green Home'. Tropical, balmy breezes. I could plant my tropical plants outdoors. Oh, I like everyone else, want this home. I am so glad to hear that Aydn is ok. GOD love him and you and your family. Good luck to you.

Posted by deb – May 9, 2008 7:55 AM

deb: I never had hummingbirds in Michigan, altho, I do have them here, and absolutely love them. But, in Michigan, I did have the red headed woodpeckers, goldfinches, house finches, all kinds of different birds, that I don't have here. I do have woodpeckers, not sure what kind, but, they are big, about 8 inches long, and try to drink from my hummingbirds feeder. It is quite a site, because they usually have to hang on from the bottom of the feeder, then stick their heads over the edge to feed. I have finches that feed from it, too. Don't have any little critters, except for gecko's, which are pretty cute. In Michigan, I had chipmunks, squirrels, wood cranes, geese, swans, ducks, all kind of animals. A funny story, one day my daughters cats were out on the balcony, and they never bothered any of the critters that came up, but one of them decided to catch a chipmunk. I looked out the screen door and she had the chipmunk in her mouth. I freaked and opened the door to get the cat to drop the chipmunk, and she ran in the house. I got the cat and shook her to make her let go of the chipmunk, and she dropped it. I just knew that it was dead, but, as soon as she dropped it, it ran under some furniture. The little imp had been playing dead. It was so funny. I called my sons to come over to help me catch it, I wanted to see if it was hurt, but, the screen door was open and it ran out. Scared to death I am sure, but, never saw a drop of blood. Didn't see it again for several days, but, then it decided to come back. The cats were never let out on the balcony again.

Posted by bird lover – May 9, 2008 1:23 PM

bird lover, that IS funny. I could picture it as I was reading. FUNNY. Poor little guy. I have seen chipmumks here, and they are so fast. Looks like they've got little flags for tails. They are cute. Ok, here's another funny. My husband is from TX, first time he was up here I took him to Greenfield Village (Henry Fords village and museum for those who don't know what it is), anyway, we were sitting at one of the outdoor cafes having lunch, and he said to me "Ya'll sure do have small squirrels here", I turned around and looked and there sat a chipmunk. I lost it. I thought maybe they had huge squirrels in TX or something. Too funny. Life is fun, as long as we enjoy it the way it is supposed to be. Take care and good luck to you.

Posted by deb – May 9, 2008 5:19 PM

deb and bird lover, that was hilarious!!! My neighbors cat caught a squirrel and brought it up on my front porch! AND ATE IT!!! All but the tail which I had to get rid of! Doesn't beat your story bird lover!!

Posted by Dana Dryburgh – May 10, 2008 10:56 PM

Just looking at the Green Home one last time. It it is dreamy. I love the looks and the breath easy design for my asthma. Have a great Mothers Day HGTV.

Linda Fowler

Posted by Linda – May 11, 2008 11:59 AM

There's nothing that can be said that hasn't already been said. This home is the best.

Posted by deb – May 13, 2008 1:12 PM

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