SOTC 46/365

The green is endless.

The air wraps itself around you in a warm embrace.

The canopy dampens the sound.

And the world disappears.

It is peaceful here.

SOTC 45/365

SOTC 44/365

"Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence."

-- Henry David Thoreau

SOTC 43/365

Petite, a photo by gina.blank on Flickr.

SOTC 42/365

Sandcastles.
Snorkeling.
Sunshine.

SOTC 41/365

Land-locked most days of the year, we kick off our sandals, dig our toes into the soft grain, then take off down the beach.

The sun is setting, we sprint towards it, towards the glow, kicking up sand behind our steps.

We stop at a place where there is no one else around. We dip our toes in the water. It's still warm; it's always warm.

Cool sand beneath our toes.
Waves crashing rhythmically in our ears.
A golden yellow glow on the horizon.
Soft air moving through our hair.

Tomorrow there will be sandcastles.
There will be snorkeling.
There will be sunshine.

This evening, it is enough to just breathe and take it in. 

Muttart Therapy OR SOTC 40/365

I bought an annual pass to the Muttart Conservatory today. In four visits it pays for itself. Last year I visited three times, two with the sole purpose of taking pictures. The thought of being able to go an unlimited number of times this year excites me, camera in hand or not! First of all, the Muttart is a green reprieve in the dark depths of winter--offering tropical climes year-round in one of its pyramids. Second, in its feature pyramid, vibrant colours are ever-changing with themed displays--a sight to take in through every season. Third, the other two pyramids remain temperate and arid all year round. It's like having a mini trip to Arizona or Seattle whenever I want without the cost of a plane ticket.

My goal this year is to visit the Muttart at least once per Feature Pyramid  display. There will be seven over the course of the year. The first one celebrates the Chinese New Year. As the display will be over by the time I get back from Hawaii, and my weekends are filling up fast, I figured I'd better check it out today. The pyramid was adorned in red and gold, featured a dragon in the centre, and was punctuated around its perimeter by many of their lovely orchids. I don't know who's responsible for the design of the Feature Pyramid, but they always do a great job.

I skipped the Arid Pyramid today, and spent only a little time in the Temperate Pyramid, given that, currently, it's not much warmer than the outdoors of Edmonton. I moved quickly to the Tropical Pyramid, my favourite.

Aside from the warm, cozy humidity that hugs you upon entry into the green space, it seems that there is always something blooming in this pyramid. It may not be the same each visit, but because tropical climes can grow plants all year round, it means there is always something popping open. Sometimes it's a Bird of Paradise. Other times a hibiscus. Today it was a water lily.

One small flower, opening itself up against an expanse of green to showcase its colours. Beckoning all who pass by to stop, look, appreciate. By the time I return, it may be gone.

But I see you today.
I see You today.