Italy, Cortona, Tuscan Sunflowers

Cortona, Italy is a wonderful village resting on top of a Tuscan hillside.  It was made famous with the book, “Under a Tuscan Sun”, by Frances Mayes,  The book was followed by a movie of the same name.  It is highly recommended to read the book to capture the full meaning of her journey, although the movie is very entertaining.  Sunflowers are prevalent throughout the countryside in the month of July.  Young sunflowers face the sun as it rises and follows it across the sky until it sets. Late afternoon can bring in beautiful sun rays across the blooms.

Although these sunflowers were taken in Italy, they are being used to honor and support Ukraine.

Sunflowers for Ukraine Fundraiser

The sunflower is Ukraine’s national flower and has been a symbol of resistance, unity, and hope.  Since the invasion, it has brought the world together to show support for Ukrainians.  The colors of their flag with bright blue and yellow are seen on profiles and cover pictures across social media, and on pins and clothing at events.

100% of the profits from the sale of the Tuscan Sunflowers, throughout the invasion, will be donated to one of the 2 following charities, verified and endorsed by USA Today.

1. Chef Jose Andrés has set up his World Central Kitchen on the ground at the Ukraine-Poland border providing warm meals for the hungry.  https://wck.org

2. Save the Children has made its own Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund to help Ukrainian families now! The organization said that it will use donations to help families meet their basic needs such as food, medicine, and shelter on its official website.  https://www.savethechildren.org/ukraine