Oh you’re in a tough place! I’ve been there on every count—kids transitioning to public school, books sales not happening, needing a job but how to manage that around family and writing.

I’ve come out the other side now. I’m semiretired and work part time at a job I love. And I have lots of time for writing and painting while also being available for my kids who are in local colleges. It’s amazing to me how much I still see them, and I’m grateful for that. What I’ve discovered is their younger years were mine (things I remember more than they do) but these late teens/20s will be their memories so I’m available any chance I get.

I’ve been writing all my life and it was usually lowest priority, because that was my choice. But I did it. Slowly. I’m a good writer and I’m pretty sure if I wrote more mainstream genres, had a series, and used a man’s name, I’d finally make money lol.

I wish I had a solution to offer, but I can only commiserate. Keep writing when you can. Keep working when you must. Always put your kids first. You’re doing great!