When I was a kid, there were times after church on Sunday afternoons when I was allowed to ride with my grandma home. Those are sweet memories…I felt special sitting next to her in the front seat of her chocolate-colored, 1978 Buick Regal. If I close my eyes, I can still smell the fragrance of the Juicy Fruit gum she’d give me while we headed down the road. (I liked folding the stick over evenly three times before putting it in my mouth.)
Sometimes our trip to her house involved a stop here and there…We might visit the Minute-Mart out on Highway 57 to pick up hotdogs “all the way” (with onions, slaw, and chili), or once in a while I’d get the pleasant surprise of tagging along with her at a flea market or yard sale. There were so many things to view, most of the items spread out neatly on the tables. It was exciting because once in a while, if I’d saved my allowance or report card money, I had enough to buy something too. Twenty-five cents would get me a paperback book that maybe had a hint of wear on the cover, and if I was really lucky, I’d find a great bargain like a beaded change purse for seventy-five cents.
© Sonya Williams
© Sonya Williams
These memories prompted me to find a similar place here in Chicago. So, last Sunday, I wandered over to DesPlaines Street and explored the Maxwell Street Flea Market. I know, the name versus the location is somewhat confusing. The original location was on Maxwell Street, a little Southwest of its current setting. The expansion of the University of Illinois-Chicago campus brought about the move of the Sunday market to where it is now.
© Sonya Williams
© Sonya Williams
It was nice reminiscing about childhood time with my sweet grandma. I hope you enjoyed what I shared. Take time out for yourself to reflect on a feel-good childhood memory…it’s soothing to the soul.
Until next week…
© Sonya Williams
Wisdom Begins in Wandering 
Your grandmother will be pleased and proud of your “tribute” to those Sunday memories with her. Can’t wait for her to see this.
Loooove all the bright colors/especially in the photo with the scarves,etc. hanging. Glad you caught the expressions on the treasure hunters faces…looking for that “special” thing.
P.S. What is that meat that vendor is serving up? Roast Pork?
I miss this type of market. The Soulard Market in St Louis is similar. Your
photos brought back the smells and sounds of Sat morning at the market.
Great job Sonya! Made me think of all the great memories I had with my dad when I was little and growing up til he passed away. You hold on to those memories cause they can’t be replaced. Keep up the good work