It isn't very often that I meet someone for the first time and know that the two of us are going to get along. (Case in point, Patti ;) ) But the minute I met Holly, I already knew she was cool!
Perhaps it's because both of us love Literature, but I honestly believe it is more because this is the impression Holly makes with everyone she meets. Holly is extremely personable, and she definitely goes out of her way to make the people she is with as comfortable as possible. This is what I've observed of her, whether it be engaging in a meaningful discussion with high-level speakers at a conference, or chatting with a bunch co-workers over lunch.
And now, Holly is using her fantastic personality to make a difference.
She established her blog earlier in the year in order to share her experiences with a non-profit called Mayan Families Guatemala. She and her husand Michael visited Guatemala shortly after publishing her first few entries, where they met the two young ladies they are sponsors of.
The couple fell in love with Latin America, and Holly was so enthused to return that she made plans to go back within less than a few months! This time, she wanted to be prepared, and had "blog cards" made (I refuse to call them business cards because business connotes office work... blah!).
Holly knew she would meet fellow travelers, and was excited about the prospect of making friends with them and promoting the work that must be done to help the less fortunate. Her second trip to Latin America took her specifically to Tlaquepaque, which is an enthralling town that excites the eye with its vibrant colors, and lures the traveler in with its rich culture...
... not that I've ever been there! ;-)
But Holly's ability to painstakingly write every interesting detail about the places she's been and experiences she's had makes her readers feel as if they were actually there themselves.
Holly is also a very thoughtful person. Javi and I had just moved into a new apartment when she visited Guadalajara. So when she came across a little store that sold household decorations, she was kind enough to buy us a precious little housewarming gift.
The crafts shop in Guadalajara
All the way from Guadalajara, Holly's thoughtful present made it to our New York City kitchen ;)And now, everytime I see it, I not only look forwad to the opportunity to make it to Guadalajara myself someday, but am also reminded that every day, in some way, we can all make a change.
- Guatemala is a Latin American country, separate from Mexico.
- Guadalajara is a city, and Tlaquepaque is neighboring a village. They are both in the state of Jalisco, in Mexico.
What is the 
If you're going to check-in to the Danfords, keep in mind that check-in time is at 4pm. Since Javi and I had about 3 hours to go before we could actually see our hotel room, we decided take a better look at Main Street on foot.
What we saw was a quaint little town of artisan shops that sold everything from religious decorations, to pet accessories.
I was able to even buy my sister a locket at a shop called 
