This has been an especially tough winter in Minnesota. We’re growing weary of seeing nothing but this….
After almost five months of frigid temperatures and gloom cabin fever begins to sink its claws into you something fierce. There are several tricks to keep your mind off of it -- a winter trip to someplace warm, exercise, meditation, and (for me) writing.
When all else fails we have the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Lake, a sanctuary just five miles away offering an infusion of welcomed warmth and humidity. This is the perfect place to enjoy a temporary respite from the cold and snow.
While walking through the palm house the warmth and humidity hit you and you're forced to shed layers.
This next section of the greenhouse was a feast for the senses. Dozens of varieties of fragrant flowers were in full bloom.
The next room was full of exotic plants like a rubber tree, black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and surprisingly even ayahuasca.
The walking path then led us to the bonsai room. I used to raise bonsai trees years ago so this section was especially interesting to me.
Next was the Amazon river habitat complete with fish, snakes, and turtles.
I felt completely rejuvenated after spending an hour in that warm, fragrant, and oxygen rich sanctuary. It was well worth the donation of $10 we paid for admission.
On a positive note, despite several feet of snow still on the ground and subzero temperatures forecasted for the weekend, I noticed spring birds singing this morning as I walked Amstel. I trust Mother Nature much more than I do meteorologists so I think this birdsong could mean warmer weather is right around the corner. I sure do hope so.
Thank you for reading!
Eric
*I am an American novelist, poet, traveler, and crypto-enthusiast. If you’ve enjoyed my work please sign up for my author newsletter at my website. Newsletter subscribers will receive exclusive updates and special offers and your information will never be sold or shared.
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