In a city of nearly 3 million people its difficult to get out for walks and not encounter another person. Last week I left for my morning walk at 6:30 am and I saw four people on the street the second I stepped foot out my door. Unwilling to give up my morning walks, I started walking in the alleys. Granted, it’s not nearly as nice walking amongst the trash bins and dumpsters as it is along the tree-lined streets but I have the alleys to myself.
The alleys are interesting – its almost as if there’s a whole other city that never gets seen. I see the remnants of what people have been doing since being quarantined at home. Spoiler alert – its a lot of drinking and cleaning.
The sign reads “Thanks streets & san for picking up our trash during this difficult time.” I thought that was a nice gesture for probably one of the most thankless jobs there is.
There are some pictures that I really wish I would have taken but didn’t because I’m a coward. I tend to shy away from taking photos if another person is around, particularly if I’m photographing their trash. Anyway, one woman had laid out several pairs of beautiful evening shoes next to the trash bins. She had clearly cleaned out her closet and was hoping that someone would take them. Salvation Army is closed and who knows when they’ll start taking donations again. I’m sure there was some guilt about throwing them away.
Another person had just put out their Christmas tree. In March!
How are you getting your exercise in? Walking outside? Exercising at home?
Cheers,
Your friendly trash photographer