Cozy up next to the fire with a nice read...

Even as I type this, I can "see" the chill in the air. I'll not be fooled by a brightly shining sun floating high above our Flatirons. If it's warmth I seek, I'll have to find it inside, next to the fireplace.

Armed with a hot cocoa, tuned to my favorite station, with the nice pops of a fire in the background, I can think of no better setting to dive into my favorite read - Boulder County Home & Garden Magazine. Sure, I may be a part of this fantastic publication and see its progress from idea to print, but I STILL get excited when the latest issue gets dropped off at our office.




The Winter 07/08 issue is bursting with exciting articles and vivid imagery. I loved the Sleeper House feature, the kitchen remodel story and the Kids Craft ideas. I'm looking forward to finishing the contemporary loft article and learning more about rooftop lawns.

I can't wait to share this issue with my in-laws who are planning on moving here, I see several real estate ads that are highlighting the types of properties they're interested in.

Articles, photos and ads aside, the sense of pride that wells up in me is priceless. I am thrilled to be a part of a community - however small it is - that has the creativity, the passion and the willingness to bring this magazine to life.

If you happen to use one of the businesses you found in the pages of BCHG Mag, be sure to say "thank you" - we couldn't bring these fantastic articles without their support.

Enjoy!

One Step Closer to Saving the World

The Center for Resource Conservation here in Boulder is heading up the Residential Energy Audit Program (REAP) for area homeowners. It's an inexpensive way - $100 to $350 - to give your home a check up and help you start saving some cash along the way.

The process is quite simple. First you call the CRC, 303-441-3278 ext. 24, and set up an appointment. They'll ask you a few questions over the phone and have you collect the last years worth of energy bills.

Next, someone comes out and collects a bit more information from you (pre-audit) and a few of the items around your house (hot water heater, air conditioner, etc) and records data from your energy bills. They'll show you a breakdown of how much energy you're using compared to other homes the same size in Colorado and in the nation.

After that, you'll set up an appointment with a home inspection service (technical audit). They'll do the following:

* Blower Door Test (see pic below): the auditor installs a blower door to evaluate and pinpoint areas that may be leaking heated or cooled air through gaps or cracks in your home.
* Building Envelope/Shell: the home's exterior walls, windows, doors, attic, and basement or crawlspace are inspected to identify air leakage points.
* Insulation assessment: the auditor checks insulation levels in attic, walls and crawlspace.
* Heating, Cooling & Hot Water Assessment: the auditor inspects and tests the efficiency and settings of the furnace, boiler, air conditioning and hot water equipment, ducts and pipes.
* Appliance check: the auditor evaluates the efficiency of lighting, refrigerator, clothes dryer, freezer, and other major appliances.


Blower Door Test

And lastly, you'll get a detailed report - along with recommendations.

It's a simple process that puts you one step closer to saving the world (and some cash, too!).

For more info on the REAP program, click here.