You can’t really find it on a map and a GPS will be of no help, but, if you live in Wisconsin, you probably know what I mean. As you leave town and start heading north the stress of everyday life begins to lift. Eventually you discover that you couldn’t care less about that project at work or those unanswered email messages. And, hey, if the toilet needs fixing it can wait; you won’t need it until you return. That’s when you realize that you’re north of the tension line.
One of my favorite places north of the tension line is Washington Island, Wisconsin. It’s located just a 30-minute ferry ride off of the tip of Door County. There are no stop lights, no shopping malls, no long lines of Harry Potter fans. Cell phone service is sporadic at best and only a few places have WiFi. But, those are just the things that create tension in the first place so, sit back and relax.
Of course, relaxing doesn’t mean leaving the camera at home. The simple beauty of woodlands, farms, and fields provides plenty of subject matter. Then, after a long day of loafing and taking pictures, set up a lawn chair, grab a cold beer, and watch the sunset. But wait! Don’t forget your camera; the sunset might be a 10.
If you listen closely you just might hear someone singing:
“I’m north of the line and that’s good news,
‘Cause I don’t want those south-of-the-tension-line blues.”
Here are a few additional Washington Island photos, so just sit back and relax.
