On New Year’s night, it snowed. We looked out to see the snow covering the evidence of other seasons: the stray oak leaves clinging to the juniper, the new growth on the mock orange and yew. We decided to go out for a late-night constitutional. We ended up walking farther than we intended to. From…
Remembering Charlotte
This is the year that Charlotte died. Strange that in the end I should find her death so significant, so haunting, because, in fact, I hardly knew her. Yes, over the years I had spoken with her on the phone a number of times and read the cards she sent to the house, but I…
2013 Zoo Lights souvenir
Welcome to Celia’s 2013 Zoo Lights souvenir! A collection of night photographs from a magical event offering fresh views of our surroundings and one another. Above, Café Brauer gleams amid festive lights and an icicle tree. Mothers and their children begin an arduous night pilgrimage, walking south toward the zoo from the conservatory. The skyline,…
Don’t miss the zoo lights
Go home happy, like the people pictured here. They got to see the whole magnificent spectacle of the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights (not just this one tree outside the entrance), because they knew the proper days and hours.
Modern materials
When archeologists of the future discover the ruins of the mall at 900 North Michigan, will they correctly construe even one particle of the scene? The look of the women, the plate glass, the nature of the activity? Will they puzzle over the word ‘Chanel,’ taking it to be the name of a person or…
The Mile last night
A few photographs taken along Michigan Avenue on the way to dinner. The night was mild, and people were out enjoying it.
Fourth Presbyterian
And now for the sprint toward Christmas! These days, like this rendering of the Fourth Presbyterian Church, are a bit of a blur. There are crowds, there is slush, there are lists, there are trips to the post office, there are a few extra drinks. We will forage our storage for cherished decorations; we will…
Urban snow scene
The lawn furniture on the deck and patio of two Chicago high-rises blanketed in snow. The alley lights, though powerful, are no substitute for the sun.
What makes a Christmas cookie?
Tonight, a girlfriend is coming over to help me get started with my holiday baking, a season that has its own preoccupations, and that everyone who bakes approaches in her (or his) own way.
Blue sea
Tapestry of light
Our plane’s descent carried us over a tapestry of light, as Chicago rolled out her welcome mat beneath a dark sky.
Waiting for Christmas
A desolate holiday scene at the Sea-Tac airport. A couple of birds wait in vain for crumbs.
