Stale and Easy

While we're on the topic of shopping...
It's been difficult driving through Loma Linda the last few years. Especially the corner of Mountain View and Redlands.
Seeing that Fresh and Easy sitting empty has been pure torture.
I had been following the news of their opening across the region with some anticipation. I wanted to see what this new grocery store model would bring. And it was exciting to finally check out the store that opened near our previous home -- two weeks before we moved.
Instantly, though, I knew I would want to continue doing at least some of my shopping there. And luckily, our daily travels took us past that store in Moreno Valley. It was the perfect spot to stop and get something to heat up that day at work, or pick up for cooking once at home.
Until it closed.
But the promise of one opening in Loma Linda was even better. I could go and do a full shopping trip if I wanted, and I wouldn't have to worry about making the long drive through Reche Canyon to get my groceries home.
Instead, it sits empty. With its lights on at night. Which, by the way, I understand the reasons why they are (discouraging vandals, break-ins, etc.), but doesn't that complete against their ads of being environmentally friendly?
And the worst part, for me, is that Loma Linda is the perfect fit for the brand. Packaged meals without preservatives. A wide selection of items that are sugar, gluten and fat free.
Instead, it sits there. Taunting me. Taunting us. Taunting the city, with its potential of tax dollars.