40 degrees icier.

I’ve returned to Chicagoland. I’m working again back at the ol’ ball and chain, Printlab (said with love). These days I have the pleasure of organizing a 30+ year film archive; meaning rummaging through slides and sleeves trying my best to connect dots and return them to their original home. Some connect, others may take months. The process is quite therapeutic. Outside however, not so therapeutic.

I love Chicago, but hot damn if the cold doesn’t make me think twice! “It could always be worse,” I remind myself, but returning from a full month in warmth and humidity makes it that much harder. Friends and warm jackets will soothe this rocky transition.

In the meantime, my friend, Sam, invited me out to Garfield Park Conservatory to take a break from the chill and decaying leaves. Turned out to be busier than I had hoped. Along with the weekend crowd, setup for an event was afoot, but still beautiful as ever. In the fern room, cascading fern leaves danced over patted moss, while overgrown branches flung through walking paths like protruding arms. It seems the plants are larger, understandably, compared to my last visit. Outside, on the outdoor grounds, Sam connected with nature; quite physically. No matter where you are in Chicago, never forget to ask yourself. Have you hugged a plant today? Cheers.

Hope your winter is warm and flu free -

Shot on Leica M9 / 35mm Summicron