Economic markers

[msmemory_archive]

I had to stop by the mall last night to return a pair of shoes (they shipped me light grey, when I wanted dark grey). I took a quick wander past a couple of my usual shops. In Chico's, the saleswoman greeted me politely, then, making small talk, asked me how I liked having the mall to myself. Which wasn't *quite* true but pret' damn near. I was one of two customers in their store. There were 3 or 4 others in Macy's mens' department, no others in Talbots.
You'd think, with customers so thin on the ground, that I'd have better luck finding the stuff I am looking for.