December 30, 2023- One of my Saturday staples, when here in Home Base I, is helping to break down the apparati at Farmers Market. It was a smaller affair today, and the staff was smaller as well. I was the sole break down crew member on site, so the management helped with taking down tents and folding the small tables and chairs. For the first time in memory, the market was arranged in a circle, and it was like musical stalls-vendors were placed in areas different from their usual spots. 

Most staff and vendors are happy to see me, knowing that the market is being secured. One or two are transactional, in their relationships with us, fussing and fuming if we don’t buy from them. It has become a personal issue with at least one vendor, so I am careful when around that person. Somehow, I won’t be surprised to see that vendor go.

Small minds, though, are fewer and fewer in my world-even as that world expands. A person with whom I had difficulty, several weeks ago, attended a meeting today, and was civil. I chalk that up to the power of both prayer and patience. I shut very few doors for good-and one relatively minor disagreement is not grounds for such a thing.

On the cusp of what looks to be an exceptionally active year, I find that what I view as Home Base actually fits several places. HB is a space where I can safely conduct my regular daily activities, communicate with friends and family, have reliable channels for that communication, and feel that I fully belong in the community. Home Base 1 will be Prescott, at least for the foreseeable future. HB 2 is Grapevine, as my little family is there. HB 3 is southeast Pennsylvania, with three family households and two longtime friends living less than an hour apart.  HB 4 is Massachusetts’ North Shore, with Mom living there and two siblings not far away. HB 5 is Greater Manila, with newly made friends a very strong draw. HB 6 is San Diego, where I can get an ocean “fix” and be re-energized, in the communities of Ocean Beach and Little Italy.

Much of the strength I feel, going forward, comes from what has come my way, in the past twelve months. Recap will be in the next post.