Doing OK. Usual ups and downs.

My writing is improving and I'm getting a little traction on my newsletter. Its nice to see people responding and starting to share it. However, it comes at a cost of being in a quasi social media landscape. I promised myself to keep going and make a switch if I can (a) find an alternative space to publish essays or (b) land a gig at a publication aligned with my writing and interests.

My memoir of my early days in specialty coffee moved forward (thanks to everyone who suggested how to tackle a tough section). Almost done. Even got a title. My writing critique group is a joy. Reviews and comments helpful, delivered in a friendly tone. So refreshing after academic journal reviewers were my only critique experience.

Unemployment in my neck of the woods is near 10%. Still struggling with a discourse of "value = career, no job = useless" we Americans were beat over the head with from childhood. But finally getting over the end of academia.

Thanks for reading my rambling update. What a whirlwind! Now, coffee.