You don't know Crapus if you don't know...
The Corpus Christi Trade Center is a GIGANTIC flea market to some. Though, to me, it's so much more. You never want to be there too long, and you never want to touch anything, but if you wanted to play the ultimate scavenger hunt, the Trade Center is your place. Although, they do kind of give you the ojo for not having A) a mullet, B) at least 3 kids climbing all over you, or C) a crucifix on your person. So without further ado, let me present you with a brief glimpse at some of my favorite spots in THE TRADE CENTER...
This is the whole reason Sam and I ended up at the gate way to hell. Sam's grill. You see that thing? That's going in Sam's mouth. I wouldn't put anything with any connections to the Trade Center in my mouth, but Sam is straight gangsta. I guess in our own way, we Bennetts are all shameless. Whatever. He's still more awesome than anyone.
I took this picture at an "everything" stand because, when they say "everything" they mean everything. Where the hell else can you buy a 4 pack of AA batteries (that are all dead) for 99 cents next to a stack of machetes? I also made this picture slightly larger so you could all relive your Highlights magazine reading youth and find all of the hidden treasure within. I'll give who ever finds the most crap in the picture a delicious bass.
Finally, the piece de resistance.
For those of you who don't know what a quinceanera is, it's the traditional Mexican equivalent of a debutante's ball. If you have any class whatsoever, THIS IS NOT THE PLACE TO DO YOUR SHOPPING FOR ONE AT. However, the TC has gone out on a limb for those willing to settle for less, and picked up all sorts of sparkly knick knacks (probably from gas stations) and made this stunning display for all to see their wares. If only you could have heard the blaring Tejano that accompanied this opulent scene, you would have been as moved as I and taken a picture, and perhaps a business card.
When you get down to it, the Trade Center is really like a Mexican Renaissance Festival that opens every weekend instead of just one month a year. The Tejano, the smell of roasted corn and unwashed bodies... it all creates an atmosphere that is better enjoyed knowing you've had your Hepatitis A & B vaccinations.