My move is finally over! Yes, I was still moving this week. Good heavens, longest move ever! As of March 31, I am no longer a resident of Incline Village and I, also have a new office in Reno. We have our own little office building (a 1920’s house) in midtown Reno for four of us — comfortable and adorable.

I have been trying to stay very conscious of my surroundings making mental notes of what I like and what I don’t about my new neighborhood. So far, what I like is that it’s spring. It’s mostly sunny, the air is warm and the blooming trees are spectacular. I don’t know what kind of trees they are but they are bursting with colorful buds of brilliant white and fuchsia. The larger trees look like fireworks displays!

For those of you know who know me well, you know that I love food. I’m delighted that there are so many options of restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance of my rental home and office. What a treat! My office is only a mile from my rental home, so while walking to work I’m gawking at all the places I have to try.

What’s not so pleasant about my neighborhood is the pandemic of homelessness — real homelessness. The other morning I was hanging out at a local coffee shop when an elderly homeless woman came in with two dollars to buy a cup of coffee. I had just gotten a piece of warm quiche and as she walked by my table she stared at it and was practically drooling. Then, when she got her coffee she walked by my table again and did the same thing. I wanted to offer it to her right on the spot! Why didn’t I?? I still ask myself that question. I could have easily gotten a second one for myself. How long had it been since she’d had a meal? Why did I waiver? I was more concerned about what the other people in the coffee shop would have thought than I was about feeding her. I felt so bad and still do. I have told myself I will not let that happen again. What is it about being face-to-face with homelessness that is so frightening? Why would I feel embarrassed about publicly helping someone in need? What does that say about me?

Another thing that I have reflected on about being in Reno is that I, now, look up at the mountains and smile knowing there is a whole other way of life at the top of the mountain.