Humans in the Environment — Contessa

 

March, life's familiar whispered melody

I love sunny days because there's much more activity to observe when peoplewatching. This guitar player is enjoying the early evening sunshine on the Old Main Lawn, a subtle celebration of springtime. Although it's only March, WWU students get so excited to bask in the sunshine, and many flock to this particular spot. From my window, I watch people read, color, do homework, slackline, hammock, throw frisbees, play games and instruments (usually guitars), and soak up the glow of our old friend, the sun, often forgotten in cloudy winter. 

It's well known that Bellinghamsters love the outdoors, but days like this in early spring remind us as a collective that we've missed spending time outside. All at once, seemingly the entire population sprawls across the Old Main and Communications Lawns. Every picnic table is full of happy students in sunglasses, and wheels fly across campus carrying bikers, roller skaters, skateboarders, and whatever you might call scooter riders. 

We rejoice at the sight of crocus flowers and daffodils, and we find hope in the budding trees. Soon, the evergreens won't be so lonesome, and the rest of Bellingham will awaken from their winter rest. These little pockets of vibrance serve as reminders of the warmth in our futures. In spring, we're reminded of radiant spring and summer. Just like the surrounding environment, we remember we're alive.

I often play guitar outside, but it's difficult to keep my hands warm in the winter, so I've had to wait for warmer days. If I had the time today, I would be joining these students on the warm grass with an instrument of some kind. Instead, I opened all my windows and welcomed the sun into my room. In doing so, I was able to capture this photo of someone through which I'm living vicariously. I was excited to capture this musician celebrating the sunny day, and I look forward to doing the same very soon. I think all of Bellingham does, too.