Reason 54,345,000 why I love this town

Every year, Charlottesville hosts the Festival of the Photograph. It is a celebration of all things photography, and I love it. Even if you don't pay (this year; last year was mostly free) it is really nice to stroll the downtown mall, and look at huge works from great photogs, strung up between the beautiful oaks. Last year, I was (unbeknownst to me) one week from giving birth to our first daughter during the Festival. I remember trucking up the downtown mall after dinner at zo ca lo, waddling more than walking, and mesmerized by the beautiful photos being projected on the old bricks on a hot summer night. This year, the Festival was a respite from planning for my babe's first birthday party, and a welcome one.



EVERYONE'S a spectator



It brings more speakers to the Free Speach Wall


And makes even the latest corporate chain neighbor on the Mall seem more picturesque.