Day 166: Cartography of Perfumed Lanes

Today I spent a few leisurely hours in the Nizwa Souq. The market was alive with bright displays of fruits, vegetables, and textiles. Spices were piled high in open sacks, their aromas mingling in the warm air. I found myself drawn to a row of baskets filled with dried limes and fragrant herbs, intrigued by the possibilities these local ingredients might spark in my creative practice.

As the midday sun grew intense outside, the covered lanes of the souq provided welcome shade. I took several opportunities to pause and sketch a few scenes-the careful arrangement of stacked pottery, the laughter of stall owners sharing jokes, and the shifting patterns of sunlight filtering through wooden awnings. Despite the light bustle, there was a sense of tranquility and tradition in every corner I explored.

As I made my way back, I felt a renewed appreciation for the small details that bring places to life. It was a short but memorable day.