On-Shoulders DayI'm not sure that this is an official day, but it seemed everyone I passed had a shoulder to stand on.

words and images by Warren Wilson

Have you ever lived in a place--a city, a town--and not visited the most iconic/identifiable sites the place has to offer?
I live in the Washington, DC area--been here for years. And, I'm sure I could probably count on two hands the local places I've visited. It's almost like we have to "go somewhere" before we'll call it "vacation", not even considering our local offerings.

Why do you think this is?

Maryland Sheep and Wool FestivalHeld each year on the first weekend in May, this is a very popular festival. (Go on Saturday--the crowds are smaller.) Whenever I think of travel photography, the last place I think of is Washington, DC, I'll think of Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York City...anywhere but nearby.So, perhaps we should all slow down, take a deep breath and become acquainted with our own back yard.  Let's call it a field trip. I know: it's like dressing up a pig. But, think of how much money you'll save by packing a lunch, pulling the kids from their electronics and heading out to that spot you pass by each day and have never been inside. Why, you could take pictures and perhaps impress the neighbors with the new place you've been. Maybe that will inspire them to venture outside their house, too. Maryland Renaissance Festival U.S. Naval Academy Marching Band