The biggest thing I miss were the daily walks with close coworkers, whether to grab coffee, lunch or just to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
I'm blessed in that I have two roommates I'm also best friends with, so that definitely helps, but I do agree with you that there is a certain privilege, if you will, to the spontaneity that comes with office talk.
For L.A. residents, this is pretty wild. Drives me nuts. This is what happens when bureaucratic agencies run wild, with no one but helpless citizens to hold them accountable [emphasis added]. This is why this is such a great idea!
This isn't S.F. but check out the reason Oakland decided to hike fines (http://www.oaklandnet.com/government/fwawebsite/parking/park...). I wouldn't be surprised if S.F. and most other cities view revenue from parking fines the same way Oakland does. Here it is:
Q: Why did the City of Oakland raise parking meter fees, increase fines and extend and parking meter enforcement hours?
A: The City of Oakland’s recent decision to raise parking meter fees and increase some fines was made in response to the most serious financial crisis ever faced by the City, and it accompanied significant cuts to vital public services, including police, libraries, parks and maintenance. Although City leaders recognize that this decision is unpopular and difficult for many residents, it was an unfortunate necessity given the magnitude of Oakland’s budget deficit.
Being a minute late to a meter shouldn't constitute a $60+ fine. If being a "leech" means recuperating exorbitant fines that are primarily in place to increase revenue (so more money can be wasted), then count me in. I'm not trying to spend money allocated for my water and gas bills to pay a ticket that was issued for parking at a meter one minute after it had expired. I understand that yes, an honest mistake was made, but it didn't cause $60+ worth of inconveniences to the city.
I've been an avid user of Leada for a few months now, and must say that the one-on-one time I receive with the founders is very helpful. It's a crisp and effective digital classroom at my fingertips. As a beginner, it has been a very manageable and powerful tool to an introduction of a whole new way of thinking.
I'm blessed in that I have two roommates I'm also best friends with, so that definitely helps, but I do agree with you that there is a certain privilege, if you will, to the spontaneity that comes with office talk.