While Mr. Nick and I were in the States, I did a couple of things that I didn't think I'd ever do again. I don't feel as bad about as I thought I would.

We stayed at the Embassy Suites in Portland. (I've stayed at the ones in Bellevue, Washington before, and thought they were great!). Anyway, a full breakfast buffet is included, and they have fruit. Among the fruit are Chiquita bananas. I have refused to eat any Chiquita fruit for the last 10 years or so because I do not like their business practices. I didn't have a choice in my brand of banana. I was surprised that Trader Joe's only carried Chiquita bananas.

On our way home, I gassed up at Shell. I haven't gone to a Shell gas station in over 10 years because I don't like their business practices. We needed gas, and the only other gas station took only cash and debit.

These two brand incidents reminded me of my days in university when I was a lot more passionate about anti-globalization. I'm thankful for the younger generation who still care and speak out about these things. I'm glad to have choice. I remember how appalled I was when I was trying to have a discussion with my parents (i.e., dad) about choice and globalization. (It's not a good idea to try to talk about anything heavy with someone who doesn't quite get English, I think...)