Fourth Journey Day 91: Threads of Market and River
This morning began with a drizzle as I made my way to the Mercado Fluvial, Valdivia's iconic riverside market. The rain added a fresh, crisp scent to the air, and the market was already bustling with vendors setting up their stalls. Bright colors filled the space - boxes of oranges and lemons, glistening fish displayed on ice, and handmade jewelry hanging neatly from small stalls.
I spent time sketching the waterfront scene: boats bobbing gently on the water, seagulls circling overhead, and the steady flow of people chatting and laughing. The energy of the market was captivating, and the interplay of sights, sounds, and textures felt alive.
A friendly vendor offered me a taste of smoked salmon, rich and flavorful, which paired beautifully with a warm, freshly baked roll from a neighboring stall. The combination was simple yet deeply satisfying, warming me from the inside out as the afternoon breeze cooled.
As the rain cleared, sunlight peeked through the clouds, casting a golden glow over the riverbank. I walked along the water's edge, watching cormorants drying their wings and children feeding scraps to sea lions lounging nearby.
The vibrancy of the market and the serene beauty of the riverside have filled my sketchbook with ideas. I'm eager to transform these impressions into a piece that captures the heart of Valdivia.
