Blooms are bustin' out all over...

What a great time of year in Roanoke. Fine weather days are encouraging lots of blooms around the valley and soon we will have spectacular views to take in. The Easter Bunny has been making appearances at Tanglewood and the photo area that was prepared for him is very bright and cheery. There's even a working water wheel and several automated characters hidden amongst the flora. There's also lots of sales going on at the mall to take advantage of.

Some visiting family members joined me for a trip to Wasena Park on Sunday to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. They noticed the progress on the flood control project that has been completed since their last visit. New trees have been planted and I'm sure we will get used to the new views over time. One thing I have wondered about, however, is what happens to all of the flood water when it reaches the same narrow bridge viaduct?

Great mall weather

Since it's too nasty outside to do much of anything, you might as well take a few laps around the mall. I've noticed some new security cameras mounted, but it's a shame that whoever strung the cable across the ceiling did such a crappy job so that you can see the wires hanging down.

Spring cleaning should be on the storekeeper's agenda. There are still lots of dirty windows and some floors could use a brushing. Look at the entrance flooring in Suit City and compare it to the entry to Cozy Corner.

I got to thinking about safety when I noticed the new cameras and started looking around for fire alarms. On the entire lower level in the center mall area I saw only one alarm that could be pulled in an emergency and it happens to be on the inside of Belk's entryway. So if the store is closed you can't get to it. I noticed some fire extinguishers however and a CPR defrib unit. I guess the best device to have in an emergency is a cell phone.

Right around the corner

We've had 2 great days in a row for outdoor walking. The river level is very low so it would be good to get some drenching rain. There were fisher men and women out yesterday along with lots of families enjoying the parks. The air was so clean and fresh and the smell of freshly spread wood chips wafted through the air. There was lots of bird activity today and I spotted some bluebirds, a flicker and a tree swallow. Work on the flood control project continues with dump trucks and backhoes in full swing.

Last Wednesday at Tanglewood I noticed some folks with clipboards. Thursday there were boats and race cars on display throughout the mall. By Sunday the cars were gone and the Easter Bunny display was being built. Easter is so early this year that it will be over before we know it. The number of mall walkers continues to grow and it's good to see so many older folks out getting some exercise. My dear mother even went and got herself a pedometer to measure her steps. She insists that walking around the house is sufficient, but I've explained that you need to get and keep your heart rate up, not just put in the mileage.

Maybe you CAN teach an old dog new tricks.