Moving to Houston, leaving behind good friends and neighbors, our kids’ teachers, our wonderful pediatrician has left me feeling a little lost. In Austin, colleagues at work saw me as the scientist who spent a bit too much time with her kids; neighbors saw me as the mom who spent a bit too much time at her computer. It was a comfortable routine.

As much as I love my new home, it’s hard being the new person at every meeting – watching everyone form their opinion of you. So, I’ve decided to take control of the situation and give myself a new persona. A nickname really, but a persona sounds so much cooler. I considered many alternatives. I have a colleague who is known as The Dragonlady of New Mexico, a really excellent persona. Too bad it’s already taken.

After much thought I’ve decided my new persona is… Biggie Rat.

As in:

“Oh no, I’ve got a meeting with Biggie Rat later today!”

As in:

“Have you started the new problem set for Biggie Rat’s class yet? It’s really hard.”

As in:

“Watch out for Biggie Rat!”

As in, next year the backs of the t-shirts will say:

“Biggie Rat Blinded Me With Science.”