It’s still only early February, but I can’t say I’ve been diligent when it comes to my resolution to carry my camera with more consistency- although I’d be quick to blame this on Chicago winter. While this winter has felt mild compared to previous years, I have a tendency to embrace homebody tendencies during the weekend. Working a job that keeps me outside more often than not during the week makes the idea of staying indoors at home even more attractive.
However, recently, I pried myself away from the warmth of my apartment and ventured out to the Garfield Park Conservatory. The day was cold and clear, with the bright sunshine that comes with those especially chilly days. It seems Chicagoans are like-minded when it comes to taking advantage of a sunny day by visiting a space heated to tropical temperatures… The conservatory was crowded with people strolling amongst towering cacti, lush green palms, and plants with prehistoric-sized leaves. The sun streamed through the building’s glass paned frame, beaming down on the foliage and catching the textures, sheens, and colors of the conservatory’s varied vegetation. While I didn’t have my camera with me, it was impossible not to pull out my phone to try and capture the ways in which the light peeked around the plants or glinted off their leaves.
Having come off a recent stretch of cloudy days here in Chicago, these glimpses of sunlight feel especially precious. Maybe it’s the increased amount of oxygen (placebo??), but there’s a positive energy that comes with surrounding yourself in greenery, especially when paired with a little warmth and sunlight. Not sure what I’m trying to say, other than forcing myself to interact with the world outside my apartment usually proves to be a good decision. Any bit of sun in the winter is something to be relished and, hopefully with improved discipline, I’ll be able to catch more of it on camera (not just my phone!).