Joining the Ranks of the Mall Walkers

I’ve long been aware that the Freehold Raceway Mall opens its doors early for those who wish to walk there in the name of exercise. However, as a self-proclaimed and proud night owl and distinct NON-morning person, seeing it with my own eyes was a daunting task.

The mall opens daily at 7:30 a.m. for this ritual, but I was only able to get myself there around 8ish (I did my best!)  The blow of being up so early was softened by getting the first parking spot, a small triumph guaranteed to improve one’s mood.  It was then minorly dampened by some sort of construction going on at my usual entrance (service entrance between JC Penney and Lord & Taylor) that appeared to have obliterated the sidewalk entirely and was blanketing the area in a thick dust that I did not look forward to walking through. 

A small word of advice when heading in early: you can only use “mall” entrances, because department stores’ doors are still locked.  Seemingly obvious, I know, but before 10 a.m. the obvious bears stating. (To perk up, those who like coffee will be glad to know that Starbucks is open these hours!)

Once inside, I wasn’t entirely certain what to do. Part of me wanted to turn on my iPod and jog; another juvenile part wanted to monkey around on the carousel and such forbidden things. Putting aside all urges, though, I did my journalistic duty, put one foot in front of the other and started walking. 

The best part of this experience, I’d say, is the incongruous sense of calm the mall has. This is a place characterized by crowds, noise, movement, hustle-and-bustle, so easily transformed. Honestly, it borders on creepy, at least for anyone who has ever seen Dawn of the Dead. But seeing the natural light shine down into the unlit mall, with its gates drawn and motionless mannequins standing sentinel, you get a far different experience from elbowing through teenagers to get to Wendy’s. 

As I would have expected, the “crowd” at these early hours is small, and mainly comprised of an older generation than my own. Everyone keeps to themselves, perhaps nodding politely as you pass. Altogether it is a very relaxing setting, and it doesn’t hurt to be the first one in the stores to shop in similar solitude. I will definitely be back... if only I can stop hitting the Snooze button!