Thank you!

This class has been a fantastic experience! I have learned so much about sustainability, gained my sense of place, and gotten involved with an animal rescue. Sustainability is so much more than "going green", we need to respect wildlife, other people, and use resources responsibly. When I first moved here, I didn't think Fort Myers was all that great. But now I know it's full of history, with a lot of influential people living here. There are also a diverse and unique habitats here, and it's been a lot of fun to explore them. Shy Wolf Sanctuary has been one of the best things to happen in this class. I am going to continue volunteering, even though all my hours are done. I am glad I have taken this class, even though it's required. I feel like I learned a lot and I can have intelligent conversations with people about those topics. I just want to say thank you for teaching us so much! And, as I have said, I have changed my ways to become more sustainable so that we can have this environment for the next genertations.

Otter Crossing

(http://www.picable.com/Signs/Unusual-Road-Signs---Otters-Crossing.5098)

I was driving home last night and a otter crossed the road in a very busy area, right over Estero Parkway Bridge. It was around 1:30 AM and it was also dark, which made it difficult to see it. He was running from an area that used to be woods, but is now cleared for construction. It's going to be an extension of apartments, where a lot of FGCU students live. I've been watching this clearing happening and it made me wonder where all the animals that lived there were going to go, and I guess they are trying to cross the road where there is less than an acre of woods there, which will probably be cut down soon too. This is not the first time I've seen an otter cross this busy road, and it worries me. There is so much construction happening in Florida because of all the people who want to live here, and soon, there may not be a place where these animals can find refuge. It makes me really appreaciate how FGCU has land that they will absolutely not build on. FGCU students can appreciate wildlife and wilderness of Florida right on campus. I just hope the construction and building happening here at least starts to slow down before there are no wooded areas.

My Changes

This class has changed my views on how I live. I used to think being "green" was carpooling and recycling; now I know different. Mostly, the "Footprint" activity showed me, but the readings have also opened my eyes. So this is what I have changed in my lifestyle due to this class:

1. I don't drink from plastic water bottles anymore; I have gotten a reusable bottle.
2. I don't eat as much red meat.
3. I try to eat more locally grown vegetables.
4. I have attempted to grow a vegetable garden at my house.
5. I notice the wildlife and plants more. And I can now identify a lot of them.
6. I try to go on a hike at least once a week and I can't wait to keep exploring all the amazing places and parks in the area.