I never see her. But she is always there. She is the feminine mystique of Mill Creek Town Center.
Mill Creek Town Center is self-described as a “lifestyle center and outdoor mall in a park-like setting.” It is located half a mile north of 164th Street Southwest on Bothell-Everett Highway in Mill Creek.
Like so many other outdoor malls of its kind, Town Center welcomes everybody but caters to middle-class-verging-on-upper-middle-class families. Most reside close by. Many constitute a growing senior population.
Shopping, dining and a wealth of services jump out at you when you walk Main Street, running right through the middle of things.
What is not so obvious is the mirror effect: that unique way malls in general and Town Center in particular has of reflecting personalities.
Case in point, mine.
I like to stay in shape. LA Fitness holds me to a discipline.
I like to relax. The baristas at Starbucks offer light conversation.
I cook. Central Market sells fresh meats, vegetables and fruits I like.
Mexican food and festivity at La Palmera guarantee a full stomach and a good time.
Up-and-coming entertainers perform at The Forum.
Postings in most of the shops keep me current on upcoming community events.
Things that interest me because they interest my wife are the “spirited gifts” at Belle Provence, the salted caramel at Frost Doughnuts and the fun selection at Reigning Imagination Toys.
However, our favorite — the one thing that never fails to perk us both up — are the cats up for adoption at Paddywack. My wife likes playing with them. I like playing with them. We both like watching kids play with them. Paddywack is about as positive as it gets.
For me, Mill Creek Town Center is a seven-year relationship with a feminine mystique. She is ladylike, fun-loving and comforting when you need it.
I can’t say the Town Center affects others the same way. I do say it has something to say to everybody.
For more information about Mill Creek Town Center, go to www.millcreektowncenter.biz.
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