Randolph, Vermont

After visiting Vermont for a Ben & Jerry's event, I have to share my enthusiasm for Vermont.  Vermont represents what many Americans long for and yet what most of us would avoid if the reality was dropped in front of us.  Vermont is gorgeous, especially in the fall, and while I never use this cliched word, let's face it:  this tiny state, once an independent country, is bucolic.

Randolph is one of many picturesque towns throughout Vermont.  The town is home to just under 5,000 people, most of whom are entrepreneurial:  you have got to be if you are going to live in this very rural state.

The town is the meeting area for the local region, and is home to schools, stores, and services.  Its library is noted for its fine local jams (from what I have heard), and is typical of how locals make a living:  you need to know where to find those fine heirloom vegetables, maple syrup, and other local products for which Vermont is famous.  More than a few move to Vermont:  many thrive, others experience a winter and remember why they left Florida.

I'm sharing a few photos of this special town.

Flores, Guatemala

For 36 years Guatemala suffered through a civil war that tore apart families and forced many to flee their country.  The small nation bordering Mexico has been war-free the past several years, but is still recovering: it is one of the 10 poorest nations in Latin America.

But there is hope.  The country has boosted agriculture exports: walk into a Trader Joe’s and those snap peas were probably grown in Guatemala.  Textiles are also manufactured in Guatemala, and some light industry and assembly exist.

Nevertheless, many Guatemalans still suffer from extreme poverty, especially its indigenous people, who make a visit to Guatemala rich from its cultural heritage.

One danger the nation faces is deforestation.  The government’s Cuatro Balam Plan hopes to increase tourism and sustainable agriculture in Petén, the northernmost departamento (department, or county) in Guatemala.  Eco-tourism is on the rise, and visitors flock to ancient Mayan sites like Tikal.

The capital of Petén is Flores, a charming town on Lake Petén Itza.  It sits on what was once an island, but now a bridge connects this colorful and charming town to nearby Santa Elana, where an open market drives local commerce.

Several years ago we spent Christmas in Guatemala, and spent a night in Flores.  Walking around the streets was a simple pleasure, so here are a few photos.