Savoring Summer Travels

SUMMER has arrived! Which is one of the reasons I haven't posted in a very long time. I begin to unplug more during these months. That's one of my summer-sabbath practices. Wonder if you give yourself permission to establish a different rhythm just as things change in nature when the seasons change?

I am in Berkeley, California for a conference. This is a wonderful place. Had never been here before. One thing you could probably guess about me is that I usually go out of my way to find local food when we travel - both to bring home and to enjoy while I'm in that locale. California - it's all about local. Here in Berkeley, especially, they pride themselves in "local." It'all over the menus. They actually smiled at me like a novice when I asked if the lettuces were local for one salad. This afternoon, we walked a mile down College Avenue to eat at The Summer Kitchen. What a treat! Finding these little niche restaurants always makes me feel good - my tongue loves it AND so does my soul.

Our summers often provide us the great opportunity to travel. As with most of our daily decisions, traveling has a cost to the environment. But, there are ways that we can lessen that cost, even add to the beauty of God's creation in the choices you make as you travel. Here are some ideas for you to consider as you plan/take the next adventure:

• google the place you are going, with the word "local food" and see what places you might get to check out.
• find out where (and when) the Farmer's Market is in the places where you stay. There's not better way to sample and discover the local cuisine.
• maybe there is even lodging that does things in a greener way, either on the trip or at the destination.
• walk, bike, get out and enjoy the sights without the car - many places rent bikes or have local maps of walking areas.
• check out local public transportation - it's a great way to see how the locals live and get a better real-feel for a community.
• consider eating at local restaurants instead of fast food. GPS and iphone aps make this a super easy thing to do!
• take it slow and appreciate the journey as well as the destination - find the local parks and national parks along your route and discover nature on the road.

Other ideas you might have to share?
Happy traveling, no matter how near or far you go. May your travels be a blessing to you, and may you bless the places (and communities) where you travel.

Peace! Diana