The Silver Spring Penguin

There’s a Zen proverb that goes like this: One who masters the art of living does not distinguish work from play. But let’s get real, grasshoppers. If one could master work and play, we’d all be professional couch potatoes or full-time bloggers. Sometimes, business doesn’t work (or play) that way.

Sidelined: Alchemy

After three years in business, the South Silver Spring gallery has closed its doors for good. The problem, said owner Brenda Smoak, was the shop’s location on the east side of Georgia Avenue, south of the Metro train trestle.

“My location couldn’t have been worse,” Smoak wrote in an open letter. “But I thank those of you who made all of those illegal left turns, drove around block after block trying to find us, and came back again and again when you found the store closed. You are each a gift to me.”

Working and playing: Golf Etc.

The Fenton Street pro shop opened (sans golf course) on Saturday, with every intention of being “the best off-course golf retail center in the area,” according to a press statement.

Two golf-simulation bays occupy the rear of the store, for those who can’t get out to the Sligo Creek course or don’t own a Nintendo Wii system.

Working, possibly playing: America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses

The eyewear chain occupies a former Gazette office on Georgia Avenue. The space had been vacant for almost a year, ever since The Gazette moved its operations to Laurel.

Working and eating: Nicaro

After months of delays, the nouvelle cuisine restaurant on Georgia Avenue is finally serving lunch on weekdays, and dinner nearly every night of the week (except Mondays).

Thanks to the Famous Quotes and Sayings blog for the Zen wisdom. Photo courtesy of Brenda Smoak/Alchemy.