I think I've read this article ten times since it was first published. It really captures the feeling that all of you will experience from now on upon completion of tasks that require significant mental and/or physical investment.

A particular goal is in mind for an extended period of time, and then finally it is achieved. Upon completion there is often a sense of where do I go from here? The TV news has been covering college graduates who have no job offers upon completion and don't know what to do. Though there is a focus on the economy impacting their current opportunities, their emotional reactions are really not significantly different than those who graduate during more prosperous times.

The same malaise that you (and they) are currently experiencing is often experienced by graduate and professional students upon completion of a degree, as well as something women, and sometimes men, experience after the birth of a child. Granted, there are hormonal contributions, but the dip is part of the human condition.

Nicely done, as usual, Lauren. I'll miss our conversations, your writing, and the brownies!