Thursday, February 24, 2011

Corkscrew Sanctuary



Our trip to the Corkscrew sanctuary swamp was a very interesting experience. It took quite some time to get out there, but once we did it was really cool to see how expansive the area was. There was so much open space! I really enjoyed how quiet it was way out in the middle of nowhere. I was really able to think back to my summer camp days when I spent lots of time out in the woods and tromping around in the woods. We saw a few different species of animals and reviewed why controlled burns were important to Florida ecosystems.



Sunday, February 13, 2011

Personal #3


My time spent outdoors today was at the FGCU lake front. A few friends and I decided to borrow one of the Hobie catamarans that the FGCU campus recreation has by the waterfront. We had a great time sailing across the lake and were able to swim a little too. While we were on the water we noticed lots of wading birds, a few smaller fish and an alligator too. At one point the wind died down, and we were barely moving at all and it was very quiet and tranquil on the water. In response to Socrates question as to what the best way to live is, its different for every person. For those who grew up living a troubled life, a simplistic one may appeal to. For someone who grew up without challenge and chase, a new adventure all the time may be the best way to live. For me, the best way to live would be to be with my family. I miss the old days back when I was a kid; when around birthdays and the holidays, my usually small family dinners and celebrations grew to 25 or more people around the table. The best way to live, to me, is surrounded by the ones you live for; the ones you love.


Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Outside time


Today I decided to take advantage of the nice weather and go kayaking with my girlfriend on a river near her house in Naples. We were able to see lots of different organisms, including many species of birds like the Rosette Spoonbill pictured. I was also able to go fishing in the back mangrove inlets we paddled through, and caught a decent sized Jack; as pictured.

I believe that there is definitely a relationship between quality of life and the quality of the environment. To me as an individual I believe that a positive relationship between myself and the environment could be a mutually beneficial thing. Giving back to the environment can only help me and others in the long run.