McLean and Tysons Keep Growing

We haven't been to McLean/Tysons for awhile - not since the Silver metro line opened several weeks ago. We like going to lunch at Cafe Deluxe because it is connected to under cover parking and is the perfect place to go in bad weather. The weather was not an issue this day, but the parking is still a nice option compared to most streets in DC. I'm sure it was our imagination, the time of day, and day of the week - but the traffic seemed to be less congested than usual. The building cranes seemed to have popped up in every direction. The new apartment and business tower that is alongside the freeway still has a way to go. All I know is I wouldn't want to live here, but it's nice to know it's only about a twenty minute drive from Capitol Hill. My husband has been suggesting he may be in need of some new pants, but wasn't in the mood to explore the options at Tysons Galleria after lunch. That place reminds us of Northbrook Court in Oakbrook Illinois - a shopping area we liked to go for more unusual items and an excuse to head to downtown Chicago for dinner. These little excursions remind us that it is too soon to give up our car because we still like to drive around a bit, and I don't like taking metro. But at least we only have one car to think about here. And that makes a big difference for a lot of reasons. 

Macy's Pants - Polo, Boss and Levi Strauss

When my husband starts talking about the fact that he needs pants, that means within the next month or two we will be looking for some. When he mentions it for the third or fourth time, then I know it is time to actually get them. Since he retired several years ago his wardrobe definitely changed from jackets, slacks and ties to jeans and pants with short sleeve shirts and T shirts. When we moved from Milwaukee to DC, he took along only two suits - one for winter and one for summer - and two ties. I think he has worn each one time. Every once in awhile Macy's sends discount cards, and it reminds us it may be the right time to get whatever we have been thinking about. So today we headed out to Tyson's past McLean in Virginia to look for some jeans and a couple T shirts at Macy's in Tyson's Galleria. Soon we will be able to take the Metro Silver Line that is opening within the next month or two. After selecting several pieces in one size, it was obvious it was the wrong size, so we went around for round two and ended up with one Polo, one Boss, and one Levi Strauss. He has a few pair at home that can definitely be tossed...they have enough holes in the legs and the pockets to lose a lot of change and keys. I suppose I can't complain since I'm still wearing an ancient FSU T shirt full of holes as a night shirt. But no one else sees me in it. After all, even though he is retired, he still need to dress the part - for me!

Tyson's and McLean Metro Stops

Over the last many months we have seen the development of the metro rail line to McLean and Tyson's. The last time we went to Dulles Airport, the track was stretching further and further along. Today we decided a late lunch was in order (since I've been furloughed all week) and headed towards Cafe Deluxe. I'm still amazed how these structures are built, and now there is a new development by the Tyson's station by the mall. A residential complex is being built right next to the station. A handy convenience I am sure. But it all looks so ugly! My understanding is that the intention is to develop green space and walking areas. And over time, it will probably look better.  I'm wondering if it will reduce the amount of car traffic in this neighborhood. On our way home, we were diverted away from our usual route near the Capitol Building only to find out that there was a shooting going on. It's great to live on Capitol Hill, but not for these reasons. There is simply too much excitement going on around here lately.