Keeping in clean

Upon any trip around the Tanglewood Mall you will notice workers with cleaning carts that go about their business of trying to keep things clean. The glass doors and upper level barriers are usually sparkling even though there is still a lot of construction and mess going on. I have witnessed the tile around the fountain being scrubbed and garbage containers being cleaned up. Now, if they can just get all of those empty storefronts filled. I'm not sure if the empty stores are spoken for and just not up-and-running yet, or if they are available. At any rate, based on the top picks at MyRetailRoanoke.com I don't see much space that would be suitable for any of retailers listed, at least until Stein Mart vacates its current space. Personally, I think it would be great to get a DSW Shoe Warehouse. After all, you can never have too many shoes.

In the beginning...

It's official. I am over the hill. I know this because I surf along with a wave of seniors as we complete our daily constitution at the mall. Our local mall is currently under renovation, much like those of us attempting to renovate our bodies. When I first relocated to Roanoke, VA I joined a local gym. Then came the downturn in the housing market and the subsequent elimination of my mortgage software consulting engagements. So, along with trimming my frame, I needed to trim my budget. I have exchanged my use of state-of-the-art training equipment, and choice of eight TV shows to watch while walking, for seeing a store window designer's latest imaginings come to life. Based on the selection of daytime TV programs available, I feel that I have traded up. I have discovered that I can get my Monday morning coffee for free and sip as I walk (you can't do that at the gym). I can also stop in to my favorite stores to see if that special item I've been eyeing has gone on sale. I can enjoy seeing the little ones giggling with delight as they ride on the carousel. It sure beats watching the size 2 anorexic twenty-somethings stair-stepping and resisting the urge to approach them and say "EAT SOMETHING". I feel that walking at the mall has also had a positive impact on my powers of observation. It's actually a much more stimulating environment than the gym (well, a different type of stimulation - wink, wink). For example, I've noticed a number of seniors that are dressed as if they've just shopped Steve & Barry's University Sportswear. I think we'll see this fashion trend continue because their clothing prices are great for anyone living on as limited budget as a college student. Of course, with fairer weather approaching I will naturally trade the mall walk for fresh air and sunshine and the views from a local park or greenway. So, if you've only been talking about starting that exercise program, stop talking and start walking. See you at the mall!