Kendall Verbrugge Reflection on Lions Gate class

  I personally really enjoy nature. I grew up hiking, biking, walking, camping- really doing a lot outside. Most of the time it started with my siblings and I complaining and not wanting to be outside, but then it ended with everyone having a good time in the end. My parents taught me that fresh air is important to health and overall well-being. Enjoying a sunset or the beauty from the top of a mountain is something I enjoy. When we had class on the Lions Gate bridge, I noticed the beauty that was all around. On my walk there, the leaves were different shades of orange, red and green, the weather was enjoyable and the sky had clouds. When I got the the bridge, the sky above the water was pale and throughout the class period it turned more pink as the sun was slowly setting. Walking the trail and looking at fallen walnuts and hummingbird holes was relaxing and refreshing. One thing that fascinating me was when Dr. Redick was talking about how trees have emotions. I understand how a tree can look healthy or sick, but do not quite understand the "depressed tree" and "happy tree." But I do understand how a tree can look sick or healthy and that to me is the same thing. Another thing that got me thinking is how more classes should be outside, or encourage being outside. We are so in tune with the inside world that we sometimes do not focus on the outside world. The world needs more time outside to breath, and step away from the classroom or technology, and the class at Lions Gate bridge was a time to step away and focus on nature.