The colors of Galway.

A constant sheet of rain covered the emerald isle yesterday. We sat in the stone cottage watching movies. In a quick venture out, we found an outdoor market and found everything we needed for dinner. If felt similar to our small farmer's market in Durham with vendors that were distinctly more European.  A french baker and an Irish guy making italian specialties had us filled up in no time. The down day was welcomed after our traipsing around Galway the day before. Galway is a city designed for walking. Small roads feel just right for human feet or perhaps a horse to cover its scenic roads. The city is surrounded by water at every turn as rivers seem to flow through it's every vein. Hundreds of small stores the size of a pantry meander down the curvy street giving the city a distinct European flair. Cafes are everywhere and so are the fish and chips, apparently the best in Ireland. The bay is a photographer's paradise. The mud flats at low tide make the boats tilt, creating a near perfect still life. As I slugged through the mud, Peter revved up his whine barely understanding why mom would want to take photos of boats with their paint peeling off.  My only agreement with him was that perhaps this photo was taken too many times. But in Galway, this is a must for any lover of photography. It is even more of a must for photographers that appreciate colorful HDR style photography. So the kids sit up on the bank looking bored while I muck through seaweed and brown slime. A rat scurries by and I know I am down to the elements. Finally a seascape rather than a cow and my camera exhales some relief.  The rule of thirds is easily obtainable here. The colorful houses are the backdrop, followed by the dark water then by the rustic old boats in the forefront. It is the ideal photograph and i understand why this photo has been taken before.  I finally walk away much to the joy of my kids. Another photo checked off my bucket list. My hard drive will rejoice. Today's miracle would come in the fact that I actually stood on the shores of Galway Bay, a place you could only dream of seeing one day. Thanks to my lucky Irish, that day has arrived.