My carbon footprint came out to be 7.9 tons which is a bit higher that I was expecting! Most of this comes from my travel habits. I drive to work, grocery shopping, and leisure activities as it is more convenient for me, as well as flying to visit my family. In the future I would like to explore more public transportation options for shopping and leisure activities. I would have to explore more options if I wanted to take public transportation to work. . .
As for visiting family, I would love to try and take the Amtrak to Chicago! I rode this once from Wisconsin Dells back to the Twin Cities and the experience was fun and peaceful compared to flying or driving. The next time I plan to be with family for a longer period of time, I will try to consider the train more!

I think what makes hosting a rewarding experience is that you can witness connections being made that are new and old. I hosted a small family gathering and while we all knew each other, there are some parts of my family that do not see each other often. It is nice to see people catch up and talk about future plans being made. I think the only thing that could have been improved was more opportunities for connections such as games or entertainment!

Enjoying the outdoors - even when it doesn't seem hospitable - still offers an opportunity to connect in a way that feels more real, which, at least for me, always brings a deeper sense of well-being.

Taken May 16th 2024 while on a bike ride through local farm land in South Eastern PA.

I took a nice jog outside yesterday without headphones and noticed the amount of birds that are chirping. Everyday there are more and more birds and it helps affirm that Spring is here and we won't have to deal with Winter weather for 6 months! Great time of the year and certainly helps boost the mood.

I have had the distinct privilege of having an uncle who is Navajo. Over the years I have learned about his respect for nature which has only been reinforced by his three daughters (my cousins) years of advocacy not only for native people but for Mother Earth. Pictured here at a recent family gathering this past June I had the opportunity to learn more about his unique viewpoints not just on sociopolitical topics but also on larger issues on how their approach to conservation has historically been holistic, spiritual, and reciprocal rather than purely utilitarian or scientific. "Stewardship not Ownership"

The importance of repurposing physical items we often view as disposable is paramount to the core principles of conservation—principles that form the very foundation of a sustainable future. While modern dialogue is saturated with talk of sustainability, the word conservation is increasingly absent, as if it no longer fits the narrative of our consumption-driven culture.

It can be difficult to keep to an exercise routine while traveling- either the hotel lacks amenities, or time spent in the car/plane makes sleep a priority instead. Aside from yoga or bodyweight exercises in one's room, does anyone have suggestions for staying on track on the road?

I have incorporated reusable bags into my weekly shopping routine. I find that reusable bags are typically a lot easier to use and can fit more items than your typical plastic bag. I also have found it very convenient to carry a reusable bag on me at all times, so it is there if I need it!