Today we went and explored the Ladner Village Market. During the summer twice per month over 100 vendors come to Ladner to share their products. First, I have to say if you haven’t been to the Ladner/Tsawwassen area before it is worth the time, a great Sunday drive. What we enjoyed at the market was the variety of goods, not all standard crafts, plants or even meat but unique items.

We found beautiful pottery that caught our eye, Choi’s Pottery which had us marveling at all the everyday items that can be turned into stunning pieces of art. We were given a list of the pattern and symbolism that can be found on the pottery which made us identify with it even more. My husband really likes cranes and blue herons, the crane’s symbolism was Long Life and Good Health.

River Run Cottages has a little side business going on and they had barrels that were just right for the garden, including one creation that was a water feature. We have seen barrels used before as part of people’s landscape or for practical purposes to catch the rain from the down spouts but these were well priced and right there. No searching for who is selling barrels.

We bought organic meat from (sorry no website) Spokin Lake Meats Ltd., fresh farm meat with none of the antibiotics and God knows what else that is laced into our food. They were busy, friendly and sold out of a few items but it is worth a try. We have been looking for organic meat suppliers and when we find one we try what they have to offer. I have to say, organic does hold flavor better and for some reason the food digest better too.

I took a moment to have an artist by the name of Pauline Basi paint a beautiful henna tattoo on my wrist.  The design scrolls slightly up my arm and down to my hand. I have always loved Mehndi since I was a child. I watched a slide show of a wedding that family friends had attended in which the brides’ hands and feet were adorned with the art. I never forgot the image and when I come across the opportunity to get it done I’m excited. What I did not know is how talented this woman is beyond the art she placed on each persons body. Her website is magnificent, so calming and I was immediately drawn into her gallery. One more incredible surprise that comes from the day.

Whether it is beautifully designed jewelery, pottery, art, perfumes or preserves, food, plants, crafts or clothing it was all there. Creative people all coming together to sell what they believe each of us needs. Whether we need or just want, markets such as this make shopping fun and festive; with lively music and lots of eye stopping moments.

They say a lot of people are doing stay vacations and local day trips to fill their summer and today showed us we don’t have to go far to have a great time. We got to know more stores in the area for future trips which can only help out local businesses after summer ends. Great idea Ladner, keep it up!