Popular Post regentrude Posted March 14, 2019 Popular Post Share Posted March 14, 2019 (edited) Hi all, I have not been around much anymore, but I wanted to post an update because we had this looooong thread three years ago when I was trying to figure out what to do with my life and how to find a new calling (not just something to keep me busy). This one: You all had so many interesting suggestions, and several commented that they were in a similar situation. So, I figure I owe you an update on how it all turned out: As I had posted towards the end of that thread, about 8 months after the initial post, I have gone back to writing. I am still working in my regular job as a physics professor, but have focused the remaining time on poetry. I have - completely accidentally - found community in a very unlikely place. Remember me talking about how this is a small town with few opportunities? I found a cluster of people in an even smaller town near here! I am regularly participating in live events, have gotten work into a few journals, and my first book has just been published through a small independent press! I feel like I have found a new direction and calling, something that defines me and goes beyond merely filling time. I want you to know that life post empty nest can be wonderful and fulfilling, and also that it took me several years of deep searching to figure out my path. I hope this is encouraging to those of you who are starting on that journey and are facing the end of the active parenting years. Best wishes to you all. ETA: Because people asked further down the thread: if you are interested in my book, please pm me. I won't post an advertising link in the thread. Edited March 15, 2019 by regentrude 99 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 I remember when you started on this, and am glad that it worked out so well for you. Did you remember the idea of a salon? That could fit well with this, too. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 14, 2019 Author Share Posted March 14, 2019 1 minute ago, Carol in Cal. said: Did you remember the idea of a salon? That could fit well with this, too. yes, I do! I am pondering starting up a certain kind of events in my town, just gathering a bit more courage to get started. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Monica_in_Switzerland Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Thank you for updating us! I am so happy for you! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bluegoat Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Wow, that is exciting! Congratulations on being published! I am sure you could do a salon. As long as there is food, all the starving creative people will flock to it. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Catwoman Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 CONGRATULATIONS!!! I’m so happy for you!!! Can you post a link to your book? You might get a few sales from WTMers! 🙂 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BeachGal Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 How exciting! I am in the stage of soul searching. Your post gives me hope as a new empty nester. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
klmama Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 I was just thinking about you yesterday and wondered what you were doing. I'm glad you have found something you love and people to share it with! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Corraleno Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 What a wonderful update — congratulations! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DawnM Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 7 minutes ago, Catwoman said: CONGRATULATIONS!!! I’m so happy for you!!! Can you post a link to your book? You might get a few sales from WTMers! 🙂 Very true! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
May Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Congratulations on finding a new direction🌺 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unsinkable Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 12 minutes ago, Catwoman said: CONGRATULATIONS!!! I’m so happy for you!!! Can you post a link to your book? You might get a few sales from WTMers! 🙂 For sure! I love to buy WTMers stuff! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 14, 2019 Author Share Posted March 14, 2019 (edited) 1 hour ago, Catwoman said: Can you post a link to your book? You might get a few sales from WTMers! 🙂 Thanks, Catwoman, but that would be against board rules. If anybody is interested, they can pm me. Edited March 14, 2019 by regentrude 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rachel Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Congratulations! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wheres Toto Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 10 minutes ago, regentrude said: Thanks, Catwoman, but that would be against board rules. If anybody is interested, they can pm me. Is it? I think you can put a link in your signature without it violating rules. I think that's what Farrar has done. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 14, 2019 Author Share Posted March 14, 2019 5 minutes ago, Where's Toto? said: Is it? I think you can put a link in your signature without it violating rules. I think that's what Farrar has done. Thanks, but I do not feel comfortable doing that, for several reasons. But I am deeply touched that people are interested. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PrincessMommy Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 I really appreciate the update. Today's been one of those "my life has no meaning" days. I feel like I'm wandering around waiting for death (morbid, I know). 1 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dirty ethel rackham Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Thanks for the update! It made my day. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bootsie Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 It is fantastic that you have found this so rewarding and fulfilling. isn't it interesting how you can accidentally stumble upon a community or other support for your activity? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicholas_mom Posted March 14, 2019 Share Posted March 14, 2019 Congratulations!!!! Thank you for the update. I only have 2 yrs left before I am done homeschooling and I am starting to ponder what to do. I like hearing other people's journey to fulfillment after homeschooling. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kareni Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 What happy news, regentrude! Thank you for the update. Regards, Kareni Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Toocrazy!! Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 I am so happy for you! I'm so glad you found something satisfying and I'm sure it will lead to even more. I don't know if I replied to that thread or just started one of my own, but I was in the same boat. I am happy to say I'm much more satisfied today as well. I started volunteering which led to starting a math club for elementary age kids. This semester I am taking classes toward a teaching certificate and a substitute teachers license. I don't know how it will all end up, but I'm so much happier on this current journey. It has really been good for my soul. 6 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 15, 2019 Author Share Posted March 15, 2019 1 minute ago, Toocrazy!! said: I am so happy for you! I'm so glad you found something satisfying and I'm sure it will lead to even more. I don't know if I replied to that thread or just started one of my own, but I was in the same boat. I am happy to say I'm much more satisfied today as well. I started volunteering which led to starting a math club for elementary age kids. This semester I am taking classes toward a teaching certificate and a substitute teachers license. I don't know how it will all end up, but I'm so much happier on this current journey. It has really been good for my soul. That sounds wonderful! I am happy you found something that nourishes your soul. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SeaConquest Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Thank you for the update, but please don't disappear! I am so happy for you. 🙂 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie_0801 Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 You are allowed to post a link in answer to enquiries. 😊 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
goldberry Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Congratulations! I am so happy for you! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PrincessMommy Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 3 hours ago, peacelovehomeschooling said: Hugs. I am having a rough day as well. I hope tomorrow is better (for both of us). Thanks. I hope you have a better day tomorrow too. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rebecca Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Regentrude, I am so delighted to hear this! I harbor secret writing hopes myself- and you and I discussed poetry writing at one point. Also, just a note to say how much I value your voice on this board. Thanks so much for sharing this news and your journey. -Rebecca 1 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ausmumof3 Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 That’s awesome! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mominco Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Congratulations! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lewelma Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Regentrude, I've missed your presence on the board since your ds went off to Uni. Clearly OT, but I just wanted to thank you for all your help in the application process last year with my older ds. Your advice was invaluable and definitely helped him get where he is now. Ruth in NZ 4 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LMD Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 wow that is very cool, thanks for the update! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CAJinBE Posted March 15, 2019 Share Posted March 15, 2019 Congratulations! I remember that thread three years ago and now I find myself in the same situation facing an empty nest. It is so interesting that you found your answer in poetry. I have always felt that physics people had a strong artistic side. I'm an engineer and am finding myself strongly drawn to teaching, especially math. We will see what the future holds for me. I have always appreciated and respected your posts and answers to questions on so many topics. Thank you for your contribution to this board and to so many of us that have used your advice for years with successful outcomes. I wish you continuing success and hope you pop in to the board from time to time. Cheryl 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 15, 2019 Author Share Posted March 15, 2019 7 hours ago, lewelma said: Regentrude, I've missed your presence on the board since your ds went off to Uni. Clearly OT, but I just wanted to thank you for all your help in the application process last year with my older ds. Your advice was invaluable and definitely helped him get where he is now. Ruth in NZ Thank you for your kind words, Ruth. I have always enjoyed reading about your unique homeschooling approach and have cheered your DS on in his successes. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
regentrude Posted March 15, 2019 Author Share Posted March 15, 2019 4 hours ago, Fifiruth said: I’m happy for you, and it gives me hope for my own life. My dc are in college, but they both live at home and commute in order to save money, so my empty nest has been delayed. I don’t look forward to the emptiness. I will take your lead, though, and search for something meaningful and fulfilling. I struggled with the emptiness, but after a few years, I have come to actually embrace it. I love my kids dearly, but man, it's nice not to have other people to consider when making plans - even if it's small things like who is home for what meal. And I now have my own room! Imagine that! A study with my own desk where I can leave everything out and nobody else goes in there. (took me FOUR years before I was able to repurpose DD's room - only when she was close to graduating college and had a job lined up did something shift for me and enabled me to do that). Actually, I am writing quite a bit about that in my book - part of it is about the kids leaving home and reclaiming my life. 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tullia Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 Thanks for the update. You've always been an inspiration for me on our homeschool and college journey. I stopped in to check the Hive for pro's and con's of Instant Pots and browse the boards. DH and I are adjusting to a mostly empty nest and food prep needs to be adjusted. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Garga Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 I remember that thread. I’ve thought about it from time to time and wondered whether or not you found something that fulfilled you. Thanks for the update! I’m going to pm you to find out about the book. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kidlit Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 Congratulations! This is wonderful news and so inspiring! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LisaKinVA Posted April 2, 2019 Share Posted April 2, 2019 I remember that thread! I'm still a ways off from having an empty nest... 8 years or so. These last ones are going faster than I'd like. Congratulations on your book -- and finding a new path! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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