It's very busy now in retail, especially at our Borders. Though there are more shoppers, and many more things for me to do, our daily sales are still down from last year. People are still spending, but, they are certainly a little more careful about what they are spending. Plus our bi-weekly sales (including coupons) have been really good bargains (50% off the blu-ray of PLANET EARTH, i.e.) and buy one get one books, combined with many 40% cover stickers as well as sales incentives such as "buy this dvd and get a $5.00 gift card" have certainly made that daily dollar count 'appear' to be less.
I'm certainly enjoying being on the floor and talking books and reading with the customers and sharing those few minutes with them.
BUT, I'm just so darned tired after a day in the store -and it's that time for 40+ hour work weeks - that I have been errant and truant, but, thinking only good thoughts of the folks on HHW.