We'd go with the Pirates of the Caribbean themed home theater. The starry night sky is awesome and reminds us of the Blue Bayou restaurant at Disneyland. We can hear the crickets now.

The other home theaters here are just as impressive, especially if you are a fan of Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Star Trek, or Scarface (our runner-up).

Patrick Blanc is one of the most high-profile pioneers in the fantastic world of green walls. These vertical gardens are beginning to proliferate across Europe and it won't be long before we see them across major US cities.

Proponents argue that by infusing an exterior wall with a living organism such as plants the ambient temperature of the structure and it's surrounding areas goes down which in turn draws down the amount of energy needed to heat or cool. Unlike vines which are set to just keep growing, these vertical gardens are highly engineered from placement to irrigation which typically comes from rainwater storage.

A few months ago we got word that the Consumer Product Safety Commission had issued warnings regarding the use of certain Chinese made drywall due to it's smell, corrosive gases and ruining household systems such as air conditioners.

Now some Chinese experts think these problems stem from the use of a radioactive phosphorus substance -- phosphogypsum -- that is banned for construction use in the U.S. but has been used by Chinese manufacturers for almost a decade.

@nakedapartments shared this quick and easy indoor terrarium project. It should take you less than an hour and cost about $20. Low investment for a unique and pretty addition to any room.

Here's what you need to get started.

With hopes your celebration today is festive and safe. Remember freedom isn't free and as the Marine's say Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful).

p.s. - Congrats to Joey Chestnut for keeping the Hot Dog Eating championship in the USA.

photo: Santa Monica Fireworks 2009