Gear

By Andie Gibson

Time to Mix and Match
If you’re into unique jewelry, you need to check out the Swap Watch. The irresistible and affordable watches, which double as cool bracelets, allow you to change out faces and colorful bands to create unique designs. Faces are $12 each and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Bands are $8 each and are made with a variety of colorful beads and crystals. Wear a single band or place up to four on each face. Available at Kara’s Closet, a new clothing and accessories shop on Rt. 122 just north of Halesford Bridge. 540.296.1110

Now You See it…
Looking to maximize the space in your guest room or home office?  Ditch the lumpy, dated futon or back-breaking sofa bed and make room for style with a Murphy wall bed. Versatile when you need it, out of site when you don’t, these convenient beds come in a wide variety of styles to suit any décor. All beds feature standard mattresses, providing the utmost in comfort for your guests. All models are designed to be raised and lowered with fingertip operation. Prices start at $2,000.  Available from The Cabinet Connection and on display at The Furniture Gallery. 540.400.4501, the-cabinet-connection.com

Gadgets Galore
From the casual cook to the experienced gourmet, there’s something for everyone at the new Provisions Gourmet/RSVP at Westlake Towne Center. The bright, spacious store sells cookware, appliances, wine, meats and cheeses as well as an assortment of gourmet dips, oils and crackers. A big hit with Lakers has been the refillable bottles of gourmet Balsamic Vinegar and EVOO (that’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil for those of you who aren’t hooked on Rachael Ray). Buy the first bottle for $19.99 and bring it in anytime for a refill ($9.99). The RSVP side of the store features lotions, handbags, notecards, wine glasses, dog accessories and more. Anything from the Roanoke store, including custom invitations, can be ordered. 540.719.3900

Gourmet In Motion
You’re at work, hungry for something good and healthy for lunch, but don’t have time to go out. Not to worry. A new SML business has the answer. Gourmet in Motion, a family business run by Chef Tammy LaChance,  will deliver fresh, tasty treats to your SML office. Phone ahead and choose from their menu of soups, salads and sandwiches, or choose a unique special when they stop by daily. Laker staff members particularly enjoy the Grilled Portabello Mushroom sandwich (on a sourdough baguette with provolone, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and a creamy basil sauce for $5.75) and the Tuscany Turkey Sandwich (sliced turkey piled high on a ciabatta roll with smoked provolone, lettuce, tomatoes and a sundried tomato sauce for $5.50). If you’re counting carbs, Tammy will make pracitcally anything into a wrap. Fresh salads and homemade soups are also favorites. 540.297.1442

Chicken Worth Squawking About
Lake Mart & Deli, the convenient, quick-stop shopping spot located at Scruggs Road and Bluewater Drive, has expanded its eat-in/take out menu to include plump, juicy Squawkers fried chicken. Conveniently available from a new hot ‘n ready cabinet near the deli counter, the four  ($4.75) and eight-piece ($8.95) fried chicken portions join an incredible Philly Cheese Steak as Lake Mart’s top menu items. A four-piece plate with steak fries and a biscuit sells for $5.95. Also part of the deli’s quality focus is owner Paul Miller’s decision to carry only Boar’s Head meats and cheeses. Lake Mart & Deli is open daily 6 a.m.-10 p.m. 540.721.5565

Benvenuto
Mario’s is now Michael’s. Michael’s Pizza and Pasta, to be exact. Located in the Halesford Center, just north of the bridge, the completely renovated and remodeled restaurant is now owned and operated by Michael Ralph. A beautiful new tile floor, fresh paint and beadboard, updated lighting as well as remodeled bathrooms give the new restaurant a fresh, more upscale look. The menu has been given a makeover, too, with fresh Italian offerings that are reasonably priced. Open for lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 540.297.8900