With the growing popularity of green building practices, more companies are incorporating environmental and sustainability policies. These are all positive steps toward reducing the impact of global warming and caring for our earth. But what do you really know about a product you buy that is labeled green? Is it really environmentally friendly, or is it just a marketing scheme? And how much of a difference is it actually making?

With the trend of sports decor becoming a mainstream choice throughout homes, decorating options are endless. Sports themes can range from fun and over-the-top to subtle and tasteful integrations depending on what the homeowner likes. Here are some ideas about where to start.

Taking your kitchen from everyday drab to your personal "fab" doesn't require a complete makeover or the budget of a home-remodeling reality show. A few simple, cost-effective cosmetic changes can create a big impact - even in smaller spaces like galley kitchens.

When the weather turns warm, we open our windows to let in the light and fresh air. But there are other ways to update living spaces to reflect the best of the summer season.

From Star Wars stamps to Pez dispensers, collectors all over the world scour everything from auctions to antique festivals searching for pieces equal to the "holy grail" in their collectible categories. What drives them? For some, it's the thrill of the hunt. For others, it's having the most prized possession in the palm of their hands. For all, however, it's the camaraderie amongst like collectors looking for that same big find.

Natural wood once reigned as the product of choice when it came to selecting an attractive flooring material that would impart a warm, homey and upscale appearance. Today, with many new laminate flooring options available, homeowners are taking a closer look at what appears to be authentic wood, but delivers the beauty at a much lower cost with far more benefits.

Mother Nature isn't the only decorator who can use leaves to stunning effect. Leaf motifs have been popular in home décor for about as long as people have been living in houses.