Took the train the other day. Not an uncommon experience in a country with commuter rail, but I work from home so I don’t do it that often. I noticed once more how much times have changed.

The use of masks is still mandatory on the trains themselves. But I hadn’t realized you are now expected to wear them on the platform, and everywhere else in the station. That hasn’t been all that well publicized, I don’t think.

I don’t normally don’t pay much attention to the platform vending machines. The usual array of snacks is overpriced, as are the drinks. (Though I must admit on a hot day I will sometimes succumb to the temptation of a cold drink, no matter how outrageous the price.)

Which means it was my wife who noticed the new items on display in the vending machines: face masks, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.

A year ago the though of selling these items instead of chocolate bars would have been a non-starter. Now I wouldn’t be surprised to learn they were the top sellers.

Except maybe on a hot day when everyone is thirsty.