Looks like it's time to wake up and smell the paint, feel the lumber and think green.

There still may be snow on the ground and flakes in the air, but Cobblestone Homes of mid-Michigan would like for you to shake off winter and move on to spring as they bring news and info on new ways to build a home. The environmentally friendly builders are participating in three area home shows over the next few weeks, and they want you to come and see the newest ideas being offered in "green" construction. In addition to staff who know their stuff, Cobblestone will have flat-screen TVs to showcase newly built, healthy and affordable homes and innovations in the sustainability arena.

Who knows? You may want to start digging a basement for that new home soon.

Here's where you can catch Cobblestone and visit one of their booths:

Feb. 5-7, 2010

Bay City Home, Garden & Lifestyle Show

March 5-7, 2010

Midland Home and Garden Show

• Location: Hach Student Center - Northwood University (new location)
• Show times: Friday, March 5, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 6, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Show times: Sunday, March 7, noon-5 p.m.
• More info: 989-835-2562 or www.hbamidlandmi.com

March 13-14, 2010

Saginaw Home & Lifestyle Show

• Location: Saginaw Valley State University, Ryder Center
• Show times: Saturday, March 13, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, March 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
• More info: 989-793-1120 or www.hbas.org