You know, this "going green" buzz phrase has gone a little far. People are using it to sell everything from clothes to homes these days. Sadly, for some it has become about adjusting our consumerism to products marked in a certain way rather than limiting it and being savvier about the choices we make.

Last weekend, I received the "new" crib from my girlfriend Jen. You would think it was right off the shelf. It had practically everything but the box it came in...there was a ziploc bag filled with spare parts and even the manual. Leave it to Jen to have filed away the manual and then reunite the manual with the item when giving it away...you can see why she's "my girl"!  While assembling it, my husband said, "I love getting all these great things from Jen, they are always in "like-new" condition!"

I was thrilled I didn't have to buy something new and she was happy to let it go to a good home. Plus, I didn't have to deal with all the packaging, boxing, and superfluous stuff that comes with store-bought items. Best of all, when I'm done with the crib, I will try to find another friend I can bless with this furniture. Now, that's giving well, practicing good stewardship, AND green living!

GIVING

1. Next time you have something you'd like to part with, ask around before tossing, recycling, or dropping it off at a donation center.
2. Send around an email to friends and family or your network and see if anyone is interested in your cast-offs.
3. Give well. Ensure that the item is clean and, if possible, re-unite it with its instructions and spare parts.

RECEIVING

1. Next time you need something for yourself, family, home, or business, clarify between "need, want, and desire." Do you really need to acquire something else that you will have to pay for, store, dust, insure, etc.?
2. When you are begin your search, check with your network first and then with Freecycle and Craig's List and any other re-purposing communitites in your area.
3. Receive well. Express your thanks. Resolve to be a good steward of your own belongings so you can bless others when you're ready to let go.

Here's to giving well!

~ Vicki