Dweezil28

just returned from the French trip, laden with many items from various brocante shops and fairs, plus lovely pieces from the numerous homestores and kitchen shops we found.

Of note Bois et Chiffons in Perigeux, and Le Troc which has several branches, like a TK Maxx for furniture and home items, new and second hand.

I managed (at last) to find a real 'poubelle de table' and the French have these great serviette holders in many designs, so I now have two! Also found more pieces for my French kitchenalia collection, a Ricard water carafe, a Pernod jar, a vinaigrette jug etc. My auntie bought the most fabulous heavy duty 8 piece antique garden furniture set in a classic cream metal for  a great price for her renovated barn's garden. Ideal! we found this at a brocante stall at the huge and brilliant Riberac market (Dordogne). these markets are fantastic and the quality of the fruit and veg for sale is outstanding plus its cheaper than the UK.

even the supermarkets are better, more variety and top quality. Visiting Asda this week for supplies was a depressing experience after 2 weeks of the French way of life! I managed to bring back some bits and pieces however, but alas the fresh fruit and veg wasn't possible!

as the French are also way ahead of us in the recycling and green stakes (theres no carrier bags at all in the big supermarkets) I also bought a great shopping basket for use at home, everyone has one, women and men, young and old, in all sorts of colours and styles. Shopping trolleys are also de rigeur!