I understand. I could have written this post not too long ago. Heck, there are still some days when I come close to feeling like this.

I’s so hard, being home all day with the baby–especially after you’ve stepped away from an ambitious, defined career track. I, too, need to feel that I have a plan (whether or not the plan ever comes to pass is a different thing entirely…)

You say that you want to write. A few posts ago, you detailed some wonderful plans to write a series of posts on “good, kid friendly answers to common science-y kid questions.” Do it. I myself would love to know why “cinnamon feels hot on my tongue.” Use this place to explore and practice your skills. When you feel comfortable, start querying magazines/websites/outlets.

When I was home with the kids and feeling adrift, I started investigating online writing work. My posts about it are up on “The Alternative Scientist” blog. Check the job listings at the websites for The Council of Science Editors and the American Medical Writers Association (if you have a biomedical background, that is). If you have a biomedical background, also go to Emma Hitt’s Medical writing website and register for her weekly job list e-mails. Do this not so much to get a job, but to understand and prepare yourself for writing jobs out there.

This is just friendly advice if you are interested in this type of scientific writing work (I think you are?)

And get out of the house! Do you belong to any local mothers’ groups? I belong to a chapter of Mothers and More, and it totally saved my sanity my first year home with the kids!

Look into volunteering opportunities–maybe you’ll find something that dovetails with your long-term career goals? Or just volunteer or join a club for fun?

Remember to take time for yourself, your own interests and goals, while you are raising your child.

I know that this is all common-sense stuff you’ve probably heard dozens of times before. But I’m not original, so I’ll say it again =)

You have a beautiful writing voice, PA. I’m sure that you could make good use of it, in whatever medium you choose (if that’s what you want).

*Hug*. You have my e-mail.

Best,

bean-mom