Staycation

as you open the balcony door, listen to the people mingling on the street below

take a moment to enjoy the little things 

wine o'clock!

homework in bed -- the new normal

follow the light to apartment 306

listen to the music of the wind chimes 

float in the trees

a reminder to stay grounded

always enjoy the little things!

    Due to COVID-19, many of us have had to isolate ourselves in our living space. While this can feel lonely and contained, there are ways to make the experience lovely. This project is titled "Staycation." My goal of this project is to make spending time in my apartment feel like the vacation of my dreams. I have spent many days "stuck" in my apartment, but have not gotten sick of it because I find ways to view it as my oasis. Doing this project has made me and my roommate feel nothing but gratitude. We feel lucky for our health, for our beautiful apartment, for the cheerful sounds that we hear from the streets of Hannibal Square, and for each other. We have remained optimistic throughout this entire pandemic and it has made a great difference in our mental health and our friendship. 

    One of my favorite things about photography is that it can bring out the beauty in everything. Something once viewed as ordinary can become extraordinary through the lens of a camera. I hope that this project inspires people to look for the best in things. The coronavirus has impacted every single one of us, but we must focus on the good. I challenge everyone to find something in their life--maybe their apartment, dorm, or house-- and capture it in their mind, or on camera, as a true blessing. 

    One of my favorite characteristics about my mom is her ability to make anything feel special. I dedicate this project to her and her eye for the beauty in life.