We left the kids asleep with the brother-in-law to keep an eye on them and headed towards Thurrock in Essex. We managed to find a small market on the Old A13 road (yes that's as opposed to the new A13). It was nice to be out so early on a Sunday and I managed to bag a few bargains. These were for the kids and cost under £5.
I managed to pick up a few books for 20p each, the "Great Big Cookie Book" was beautifully illustrated and I look forward to trying some recipes from it. The rest were gardening books, which I suppose is appropriate considering Spring is heading this way.
I bought a tray of primroses (50p a pot or 15 for £5), although it's probably a bit early to put flowers out. My husband didn't seem very impressed when I went back for a second tray, but I wasn't so keen on the power tools he found either. In the end I managed to fill 10 big pots with these to put out front.
The garden doesn't look too horrendous here, but it's going to take a bit of work to get the bellbine, nettles and blackberries under control that seem to have invaded. Plus someone is going to have to clear all the empty paint cans, tools, planks of wood and assorted junk.
ASA
ReplyDeleteWow what a great Sunday out! Can you be a bit more specific about the location of the markets you go to and where was it that you found that lovely dress for your friend?
Assalam-alaikam Umm Sumayyah,
ReplyDeleteit was a nice morning, the only thing that gets me is when you get back everyone rests whilst you have to get breakfast/lunch ready (depending on how quick you get back) when all you really want to do is get those flowers planted out.
Apologies, I should have put the location of the market properly. The one I went to yesterday was Willow Farm Car Boot Sale in Rainham opposite Thurrock Hotel at Junction 31 of Dartford Tunnel Roundabout (call o7780 546284). It was okay, but not great - not the cheapest or best goods I have seen and too many smokers.
For a really giant one which starts next week (08/03/09) try the one on Dunton Road (100 yds off A127), Dunton, Basildon, Essex (01277 624979) but be prepared to be there for hours (midsummer it can take up to 6 hours to see the whole thing).
My fave one is a smaller, late-starting one (10am) at Barleylands Farm, Barleylands Road, Billericay, Essex CM11 2UD (07763 827431) which has the added bonus of a childrens farm, farm museum, go-karting etc. As there is a sloa craft village there, a lot of the seelers sell of craft supplies cheaply which I like too. It also has the most friendly, family feel to it.
The best thing to do is to look here for one that is nearest to you:
http://www.carbootjunction.com/index.php
Oh, if you come to one and spot me, you are welcome to give me a wave.
Regarding the shops, insh'Allah I will be setting up my e-mail for this blog soon, please e-mail me then and I will be happy to give you the details (they are quite close to home and I want to maintain some privacy)
Oh, it just occurred to me, how would you recognise me? Maybe if the kids are with me...
ReplyDelete(I'm just imagining you saying hi to random, confused sisters)
I was wondering on how I would recognise you too! :))))
ReplyDeleteThanks for the details. Like the sound of Barleylands-should be a great place for my kids.
Assalaamu Alaykum,
ReplyDeleteYou've made me miss the UK and those boot sales! Great finds sis ma sha Allah. I love the flowers!
Assalam-alaikam Umm Hibaat,
ReplyDeleteI had no idea you were into boot sales too. I would miss them if I wasn't here as well. You can't be missing this cold blustery weather though.
I planted the flowers in pots out front, every time I walk out they brighten my day and I hope that of thers who walk past.