STEPH DEROSA: TACOMA NORDSTROM GRAND OPENING >>>

The original projected opening date of the new Tacoma Mall Nordstrom is expected to be Oct. 3, 2008 at 10 a.m.

As I'm typically a supporter of small locally owned businesses, there's no denying my intense love for Nordstrom as well. The service is unbeatable, and the attention to fitting detail in all departments is impressive. If you've ever bought a bra or a pair of children's shoes at Nordy's, then you know exactly what I'm talking about.

For the few of us who are anxiously waiting for this grand new store to be unveiled, there is a light at the end of the tunnel! The Tacoma Mall Nordstrom's Grand Opening Gala will be Tuesday, Sept. 30. Tickets are $75, but don't get your Juicy Coiture lace panties in a wad, ALL proceeds will benefit the Tacoma Art Museum and Museum of Glass.

And leave it to me to find out the skinny on what will happen with the coffee cafe that is now separate, but next to, the present day Nordstrom. The new and improved store will soon house the cafe inside its full doors, right about where the purses are located now. The small collection of housewares and decorative items that are now inside the tiny cafe will also have their very own area inside one of the three brand new floors of Tacoma Mall Nordstrom.

And luckily for me, the restaurant will still be around, and will still be serving up Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. I just hope they don't change the snickerdoodle recipe or I'm going on full protest. That is, unless I bust one of my bras.

Dammit, Nordstrom, you've spoiled me!