My name is Karen. I am from the United States and live in the state of Virginia, about 30 miles west of Washington, D.C. I am a horticulturist and have worked in landscaping, garden centers, botanical gardens and as a cooperative extension agent. I like to read, garden, walk, cook, listen to music and more. I plan to retire to Ecuador in 5 years because of the culture, the biodiversity, the fresh food and beautiful land. I am learning Spanish because I want to be able to live in a South American country and communicate with local people.