Amazing Husband has the day off. I say this as he is working in the next room, but it's not a long job. He will be working from noon on Friday until noon on Saturday so today is intended to ease the pain a bit. It is unfortunate that I will be sans transportation during that 24 hour period, but I'm getting used to it. Nowhere I MUST go and much that can be done here.
So, since he has the day off we decided to go down by the river and have a look at the Nicholas Conservatory. I used to drive by it each day on the way to work so I watched it's building progress, but have never gone in. The conservatory has been a bit controversial in Rockford. It cost a god-awful amount to build, though it is my understanding that a good portion of that was a private donation. The hope is that it will become a tourist draw, but with many regional garden/conservatories offering free admission and Nicholas charging $8 per person for out-of-county visitors, only time will tell.
On my list of plants I love, I have to admit that tropicals are pretty far down there, but the conservatory is really well done and will be a fun place to take Cam in a year or so.
Each plant is labeled and there are handouts that can be stamped at little stations all around the garden.
There were some pretty great glass art pieces. This next one was in a kids area.
On the way out we walked by the river a bit and found a great new dock where you could dock your boat if arriving at the conservatory via the river.
We walked out onto the floating portion and I was instantly transported back to the diving raft on Dunham lake where I spent hours being lulled by the waves breaking against the flotation barrels. I think I will go back there and spend more time enjoying the river.
As to the conservatory? It was ok. There is a nifty new roof deck, but it was locked today, which was a bummer. I would go back for an event or possibly on a free day. ( I think the 3rd Wednesday of the month it's free from 3-7, though don't quote me on that. I couldn't find anything on a quick scan of the website.) The building itself is really beautiful and once they complete construction on the outdoor lagoon and gardens it will be pretty amazing. Nice way to spend some off time.
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