Bus Report #250

The weather report this morning mentioned that, due to fires somewhere nearby (Santa somewhere…) it would be hazy and smoky today.

When I went outside to catch the bus, it was definitely hazy, with a hint of smoke in the air.

The weather report had neglected to mention how grapefruit-red the sun was.

It was so red, it was alarming. Set against a grey sky, it was beautiful.

This week on MUNI has been a test of patience. I am not sure why it’s been so horrendous, but my commute seems to take an extra 10-20 minutes in the morning and an extra 15-25 minutes in the afternoon. I don’t think they are running any more buses than they were in the summer (i.e., when school was out and the city was devoid of college students and public school kids). If they ARE running more buses, I’d like to know on what lines.

Also, I think some stops along the 38 line may have changed. The other day I was waiting for a 38 or a 38L at Geary and 36^th. Next Bus promised I’d have my pick of buses but the 4-and-7 minute wait time came and went with no buses. Finally, a 38L came in to view. I waited for it to stop, but he cruised on by. Jerk. I re-checked the stop and it says that the 38L stops there, so I don’t know what his problem was.

Along with all the complaints, there were a few bright spots this week.

I saw the dreadlocked dental technician for the first time in weeks. He looked older, but it might have been due to his old-man glasses, thick, square, gold frames with very shiny lenses.

I got a good seat on the 10 Townsend last night, and was surprised to see BT get on at the next stop. It’s been months since I last saw him.

My 38 wasn’t too spectacular last night, but it was oddly empty and our driver drove fast and ignored a few stops. I got back to the neighborhood early enough to go to a few shops and walk home slowly.

Green Apple is having insane sales at their warehouse store in the old Busvans building. You should all go.

The busker who sits out front Toy Boat was playing his guitar last night. After seeing the film Once, I have a new-found respect for him and his music, which is actually pretty nice.

The French café across the street from me is under new management, which makes me sad. Everyone went there for the wacky French ladies that worked there, not for the menu or atmosphere. I’ll miss those ladies. I’ll worry about their sister, who seems to have gone crazy this past year. I hope whatever they are doing now, they are together and taking care of her.