Visited my daughter in Olomouc, Czech Republic a few weeks ago. Public transportation always available, and beautiful cobblestone streets everywhere! She is there teaching English and making wonderful, sensitive, compassionate friends. So proud of her, and happy she's becoming a thoughtful global citizen.
So much of this country looks like Virginia: low, forested mountains and farmlands throughout the countryside. We saw solar panels and windmills as we traveled by train. We ate very well in local restaurants. Tasted local beers and wines as well! Lovely trip, thanks to our local tour guide!

Make a change, make a difference

I have noticed many organizations encouraging others to buy local, especially food from local farmers; avoid using chemicals, and to read your labels! More small farmers are setting up in local markets so the general public has access to their goods. I like this turn of events, and although I know it has been going on for quite sometime, not so much in the mainstream until more recently. I really enjoyed the "Tonight Show" plug for Fair Trade by Ben and Jerry's ice cream. They were on the other night, and it was wonderful to hear that they have gone 100% fair trade in their product. I will buy their ice cream for sure now! There is also a local homemade ice cream sold in my area, so competition continues.