ML Parker Media

**Balance is key.** Camping in the dessert is a great way to equalize my mind and body after spending several weeks (or months) at sea. This shot from my tent was one of many photos I took (for fun — not for work!) during my solo cross-country road trip from North Carolina to California and back. Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona | February 2020

Five Years of Freedom

February 10, 2023 in Personal

Five years ago today, I left my position at the UNC Office of Research Communications to become a full-time freelance science communicator.

Typing that sentence feels a bit surreal. I can’t believe it’s been five years already.

I will never forget the heavy weight of anxiety and frenetic nerves that accompanied the decision to quit my job (a really good job!) and start my own business. After several years of earning a regular salary (along with a 401K, paid vacation time, good health insurance etc) electing to become a full-time freelancer seemed like a crazy idea.

My parents thought my decision was rash. My friends thought it was badass. I alternated between feeling excited and empowered, and then completely overwhelmed and intimidated.

I often wish I could go back to that time and tell myself: As scary at it seems, this is the right move. You are in for the ride of your life, but you can handle it.

**A walk in the woods soothes a turbulent mind**. A view of the Eno River near my house in Durham, NC.

Liminal Space

January 30, 2023 in Personal

The word "liminal" comes from the Latin word “limen,” which means threshold. To be in a liminal space means to be on the precipice of something new but not quite there yet. You can be in a liminal space physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. Being in a liminal space can be incredibly uncomfortable for most people.