Come as you are to historic Roswell and bring comfy shoes

Often our own backyard is where less is much more. Lots of us are taking stay-cations this summer, but the economy aside, I finally had the opportunity to rediscover, for the first time, more of the charm of the city I’ve known as home for over a decade and a half.

“Alive After Five” has been going on in Roswell for years now, but trying to remember the third Thursday of each month has proved too much for this memory-challenged mind.

My partner in this sheepishly embarrassing crime was a friend who, although also a long time Roswell resident, had never come out to explore on the given evening either.

Together we share almost three decades in Roswell, and between us we have enjoyed Historic Roswell at other times, countless times, but generally when all the charming shops and galleries are shuttered up for the night.

And that’s too bad because although the window shopping and strolling along the quiet, quaint lanes is delightful, it isn’t until you step inside the eclectic collection of galleries and shops that you savor the full flavor of historic Roswell, beyond the eateries.

Amid the casual and cordial atmosphere are the families and folks of all ages, sauntering along, pushing strollers and walking dogs, some breeds as unusual as the unique wares within the walls of the storefronts. Paintings, prints and photographs join a smattering of folk art, crafts and collectables that fill the ultra air conditioned emporiums.

There is live music serenading just beyond earshot of each other with toddlers bopping to the beat of vintage rock in the park, while down the street alfresco front porch diners drink in a band’s background music.

Cold drinks, comfortable walking shoes, a relaxed pace and a working knowledge of parallel parking are the common denominators among the passers by.

As Velvet Elvis belted out their rendition of The Romantic’s “What I Like About You,” I was reminded that what I like about Roswell is it’s forgiving and inviting nature, it’s come as you are and come and go as you please attitude, and it’s history that allows the belief that there will always be time enough to enjoy it’s good manners and hospitality, even for its most memory-impaired residents.

Vicki Griffin works in education and communication and has lived in Roswell for 16 years.