So Cal Solar wants to know “How Green Are You”. Tell us your story on what you do to impact the environment in a positive way. No impact is too small or large and we want to hear about it to share with the world and continue increasing awareness. If you recycle we want hear about it. If you have a solar electric system we want to what your system’s environmental impact has done. If you stopped using plastic bags we want to know how you adjusted from plastic to eco-bags. If you do it all WE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT IT!!!!

Bringing environmental awareness to our readers is a top priority for So-Cal Solar Inc. That is why we have decided to run a contest and hear how our readers have changed their lifestyles to help the environment. The “How Green Are You” contest will be from February 22-March 17, 2010.   Details of the contest can be found on http://tinyurl.com/ygktxgr.

Another great way to express your environmental savvy is to patronize green businesses.  Every step toward reducing our carbon footprint is a step in the right direction.  Make your first step by visiting Going Green in OC!

To regift or not to regift, this is becoming an increasingly popular question especially at this time of year.  For many regifting (to give a gift to someone after it has already been given to you) comes into play when you have received a gift for which you have absolutely no use.  Practically speaking, why keep something when you know it would be perfect for someone else.  That would just be selfish, right?  Perhaps.  Or maybe you tried regifting the first time when a friend dropped by unexpectantly with a gift and you were caught with your hands empty.  Quick, what do you have that you could put into a gift bag with some fresh tissue and voila, look like Martha Stewart?   

But when regifting, keep in mind that there are some guidelines.  Make sure the gift is not dirty, torn, stained or otherwise in poor condition.  Look for hidden gift tags or cards that identify you as the original recipient. Don’t pass on a gift to someone who is friends with the original giver.  And of course, don’t regift anything used unless you are honest about being the first recipient.

Although there very well may be perfect occasions for which regifting is appropriate, remembering friends and family with the perfect gift can be accomplished with shopping early and keeping a list.  Check out this comprehensive shopping guide.  Perhaps the issue of regifting can be avoided by making great shopping decisions the first time around.