Falling Back, 33. Party Like it's 1999.
This morning was cold as I went in to town to the local clinic to take my mother-in-law for blood work. The hour hasn't yet changed back to standard time; it will change by next week or the week after, probably. So, the morning was dark and cold when we set out. But when we left the clinic, though it didn't take very long, the sun had just risen, and I didn't bother to put on my denim jacket, though the temperature was hovering around 46ºF/6ºC. Later in the morning, I went to Santiago to look for our daughter's birthday present. It is difficult to buy presents now. Once, any bauble I thought the recipient would like was fine. Now, I want to buy something the person needs or adores. It's difficult because, generally, needs are always met, and the adoration tends to be of things beyond one's means. I did find something, though, and it's now hidden away. Santiago is in the red zone, according to the regional government. I think there are well over a hundred new...