Zachary Thomas

My wife and I have implemented a "one in, one out" rule when it comes to purchasing. If we buy something, we must donate or sell something else.

I started taking cooler, shorter showers to save both energy and water, and I quite enjoy them. I leave feeling more energized and less lethargic. It is uncomfortable, but I think facing some discomfort to start the day proves that I can do other uncomfortable things throughout the day.

I have a dog that I like to take for walks. We live right by the Ogden River Parkway, so we always enjoy a walk by the river (and my dog enjoys walks in the river). It is a nice escape to "nature". Seeing ducks swim, fish jump, and birds fly overhead is a nice connection to the world around me.

This is why I love weather so much. No matter where I am, I can look up at the sky and learn something about the state of the atmosphere. I can also draw conclusions based on what I have learned from past science classes about what weather we're experiencing and what is to come. I especially love sunrises and sunsets. Sunrises to me represent opportunity, a fresh start. Sunsets invite me to reflect on the day.

This quote reminds me of my favorite quote my Marcus Aurelius: "When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive-to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love".

I found it easy to choose something other than screens. However, if I don't choose something else, I find that I default to screens. I decided to do some painting last night, and it brought a lot of joy! It was challenging but rewarding.