My, how the semester flies. Only 5 weeks left of teaching. Let’s dive in!
SONG INSPIRATION
This month’s blog is inspired by Kelly Rowland’s “Black Magic” from her EP, K.
LIFE IN DIFFERENT PLACES
Woohoo – the second reader requested topic! This is a fantastic question which forced me to reflect on the different places I’ve lived. I’ve only lived in four places: the American Deep South / Gulf Coast, the American Southwest, Japan, and New England. Each place has its own character, cuisine, and geology. No place is perfect – although some get close. I’ll start with my childhood home on the Gulf Coast.
Gulf Coast (Deep South) – I was born and raised in the Deep South and I spent over two decades on the Gulf Coast. If I had to choose one word to describe the Gulf Coast, it would be “stagnant” or maybe “stifling”. I couldn’t be my full self. There are generations of trauma due to slavery and widespread poverty. There’s a strong emphasis on tradition and religion. At the same time, the food was orgasmic and there was a deep-rooted norm of hospitality. Those of us that didn’t fit the mold often found each other and established strong bonds that resulted in some of my richest friendships. Favorite aspects: food, music, and water
American Southwest – I lived in a desert for a decade. It was mountainous, hot, and breathtaking. A stark juxtaposition to the urban sprawl and reckless drivers. I finally found myself here. I had to heal the wounds whipped into me by growing up in the South. I had to unlearn, deprogram, and forgive. I built a new social circle from scratch compromised of people from all over the world. Because I initially knew no one and I was a graduate student, I fostered a strong sense of independence and forged strong bonds amidst a cohort of people struggling to find ourselves and master our academic disciplines. I learned the basics of life: budgeting, consistent exercise, healthy eating habits, and maintaining constructive relationships. Favorite aspects: mountains, grid plans, and new construction
Japan – I lived in Japan for over half a year. It was at times surreal yet familiar. Modern yet traditional. Scientific yet ritualistic. I lived alone for the first time – an entire apartment to myself. I learned to live on my own, love myself, and be alone with myself. Self-love is a powerful love, fundamental for other types of love. I built a new social circle from scratch again. I also learned how to be uncomfortable. In Japan, I felt fearless because I’d earned my PhD before moving there. I embraced that fearlessness and used it to overcome anxieties around speaking Japanese and interacting with Japanese citizens who spoke little or no English. Favorites aspects: safety, public transportation, and culture
New England – I’ve only lived in N’Angland for 2 months. However, I did spend summer in Massachusetts over a decade ago. In that case, let’s say 4 months total. Once again, I have to build a new social circle but living in a very small town means a circle that is smaller and more work-affiliated. The winter is brutal – cold and gray – but not as bad so long as you have the right clothing and in-home heating. It’s the short days and the overcast skies that started to get to me. But there are mountains and a patchwork of cute towns to explore. The people are kind, but not necessarily friendly. I’ve felt safe and welcomed, but the veneer of pleasantries common to the south are absent. I’m still finding my way and learning about this region of the US. Favorite aspects: walkability in small towns, pace of life, and politics.
LPSC REFLECTIONS
A couple of weeks ago I attended the Lunar Planetary Science Conference just outside Houston, TX. Although I attended this conference many times as a graduate student, this was my first time attending it as a postdoc. Additionally, it was my first time in-person since covid. It was the best LPSC I’ve ever attended with respect to networking, collaborating, socializing, and self-esteem. On principle, I hate conferences. I’m not good at connecting with certain types of scientists (e.g., those who are SO enveloped in their work to the detriment of other aspects of their lives). But this time I felt in my element. My schedule was packed with talks, meetings, and meals. For the first time, I felt like I belonged there…and knew enough people…and had future ideas and projects to pursue. As a result, I’m super excited to attend two additional geocentric conferences in Pittsburg and San Francisco this fall.
GROUNDED (FOR A LI’L WHILE)
Finally, after a year of monthly travel, my ass is grounded. I do love seeing the world, but I have to admit that I’m weary. I now relish the thought of spending 2 – 3 months at home. I finally have time to finish settling into my new digs. I can invest in my hobbies, reflect on my past travels, and develop a balanced routine. I’ve already gotten back into a regular workout routine and resumed consistent healthy eating habits. Feels good to be home and settle into life in N’Angland.
CURRENT BOOKS AND SHOWS
Recently finished: Only Murders in the Building (s1)
Currently watching: Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure (s1); Only Murders in the Building (s2); The Amazing World of Gumball (s1); The Last of Us; The Venture Bros (s4)
Currently reading: Dune (starting soon); Modern History of Japan; Wine for Dummies
As always, thank you for reading! Please suggest more topics for discussion. My next blog is scheduled for Thursday, May 4th. Until next time….
The Planetary Novelist 