Dream Trip 2009

Great Travel Moment

This was taken shortly after we asked these Vatican Guards if we could visit the Vatican Gardens. They informed us that this is no longer permitted. However, when asked if I could take a picture of the guards with my wife, they agreed. Walking away, I noticed this priest walking towards them. Always on the lookout for contrast in photos, I took several shots -- this being my favorite. Why the title "War and Peace?" First, before the current war(s), during more peaceful times, anyone could walk through the gardens. Second, the Vatican Guards are highly trained warriors -- talking to one of the ultimate symbols of peace -- a priest. We savor it for the memories of these nice young men who posed for the picture with my wife -- and because it reminds us of calmer times when we walked through the magnificent Vatican Gardens many years ago.