Down Days

So much for plans. My knuckle continues to swell up and the hand is discolored. it hurts but not a lot. But driving for long periods is out of question. So I'm confined to San Francisco for now.

Here are today's shots:







Shouldn't type a lot. It's getting dark outside, and a bit gloomy. A sense of inevitable doom settles over the city. With night come the window smashers and thieves, the homeless and the army of recyclers through this poor neighborhood.

Some inflamed organ or two battles with the swollen hand for my attention. Pain here, pain there, aging is not fun.

Still, many were out on the streets this day. Many shoppers, bargain-hunters, I guess. Myself, I bought gloves, a basting kit and dish detergent at the dollar store for $3 and $0.26 tax for the state, which is broke.

California needs a bailout. The budget deficit is larger than many countries' GDP. The Governor wants drastic action; the legislature is hopeless. Services for the old, weak, hurt, poor, and damaged are being cut. More and more "middle class" people are showing up seeking meals at the shelters and food banks.

Corporate contributions have been cut, so the stores of foods are dwindling. It could be a long, cold winter.

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