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Monday 19 December 2011

The last Sunday...

...before Christmas.

Mum wanted to make one last trip to Basildon before Christmas and to be honest I was dreading it - I normally avoid large shopping areas at all cost this close to the festivities...but we went.

Surprisingly, it was easy getting parked and there didn't seem to be that many folk about - we soon found why.

The queues in the stores were awful.

We didn't stop long but it was long enough for Mum to get her last bits-n-pieces.

The day was bitter and we had some pretty heavy sleety down-pours which was one of the reasons these folk were taking shelter inside the shopping centre - bet their knees were cold LOL


Considering it was the last Sunday before Christmas and the last weekend many folk have for doing their festive shopping - it was surprising to see Debenhams closed & shuttered...wonder why? (couldn't see any signs to say why they were closed).

The town centre had several market stalls (some from the Farmer's market) but they didn't seem to be doing much trade.

In fact, despite the decorations there wasn't much of a 'Christmassy' feeling anywhere.

I have my cards sorted, the decorations are still not up and I still have some gifts to buy...so what's new...the usual last minute dash to complete everything ready for The Day..............................

6 comments:

Virginia said...

Oh Toni - you were very brave going near a shopping centre at this time of year, my Mum and my sister are about to brave Meadowhall - not for me! I too am surprised that Debenhams wasn't open - I think that's unheard of!

I don't feel very Christmassy at all at the moment, the decorations are up, said 11 year old has been doing the advent countdown, just still not feeling it if I'm honest and I think most people are like me.

Sending you hugs

Virginia

The Crafty Elf said...

You're a good daughter Toni!!

Debbie said...

Strange that the shops didn't feel Christmassy... I am hoping not to have to venture into any more between now and Sunday! Hope the rest of your preparations go well!

Debbie x

Enfys said...

Hi Toni, just popped over to wish you and yours a very merry Christmas, and a happy new year. Those pipers look a bit brassed off, and you are right, it doesn't look very festive.
hugs
Enfys xx

Stef H said...

oh yeah. you were definitely brave heading to a mall. kudos to you & mom!!!!

fun pictures.

hugs :)

CLaire said...

I have my cards made... just cant get round to everyone to give them... and have nothing ready at all......