Summer ends. Leaves turn. Fall approaches.
SONG INSPIRATION
This month’s blog is inspired by MONEY by LISA.
FALL APPROACHES – NEW COURSE AND ANOTHER CYCLE
Less than 2 weeks until classes start. The dregs of summer are almost over. The upcoming semester feels a lot different than previous ones. On the one hand, I’m teaching a new course – a college writing course designed for first-year students focusing on space exploration, planetary science, and our relationship to the cosmos. I’m super excited to welcome fresh faces to the college and provide guidance on success in college and critical reading and writing. On the other hand, I’ve entered a diminished academic job cycle. I have already submitted several applications and anticipate several more. I’m also pushing out a few papers and a textbook chapter in the coming months. Given the existential threat to science and the academy, the future looks murky at best. But I want to keep up a good façade for the students – they may have brighter futures.
APPRECIATION OF FRIENDSHIP
As I reflect on my sister’s visit last week, I am struck by the appreciation I have for my friends and community during these difficult times. The geographical separation from my support circles hasn’t been easy, and it has served as a reminder that no place is perfect. Over the past few years, I’ve had an amazing job and a healthy pace of life. But it has come at the cost of a strong social fabric, sunny weather, and a lack of urban amenities. Recently, I’ve worked to strengthen connections with my friends afar but there’s more work for me to do. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today (mentally, physically, emotionally, or professionally) without a gaggle of goofballs who keep each other honest and hold space for one another. The near future is uncertain for many of us, with darkness at the edges. Now is the time to show up for each other and brace for the future.
PRE-SEMESTER TRAVEL
Today, I’m heading to Canada for a reprieve before the start of the semester. These trips have been critical to mental preparation for the short, intense semesters at my current institution. The summer has been wonderful, but I still feel weary given the national climate and lingering employment uncertainty. Lack of a permanent position has further necessitated the need to elevate my professional profile. A little over a week after returning from Canada I have to hop across the pond to give a talk at a planetary science conference in Finland. I’m excited to share my work and establish new connections. Furthermore, conferences often give a jolt of motivation and excitement which is so desperately needed these days. I could use a shot of adrenaline as I prepare to tackle a job cycle, a new course, and a difficult move.
CURRENT BOOKS AND SHOWS
Recently finished reading: Guns Germs, and Steel
Currently reading: This Is How Your Lose the Time War
Recently finished watching: Black Mirror (s7); Blood of Zeus (s3); Cells at Work!! (s2); Ironheart; Rick and Morty (s8); The Bear (s4); The Regime; The Sandman (s2); Vinland Saga (s1)
Currently watching: Daredevil (s1); Only Murders in the Building (s4); Vinland Saga (s2)
Thank you for reading! The next blog is scheduled for Thursday, September 18th. Until next time….
The Planetary Novelist 