I clicked the “Submit” button around 1:30am this morning. I was about an hour and a half late, but I’ve been later. I posted the final assignment to the first class of my dissertation sequence, and I don’t think I’ve ever been happier in my life. The course wasn’t hard, but the pressure was on. Every paper matters. Every presentation is practice for the defense. Every mentoring session is an opportunity to soak up as much wisdom as possible. So there was an intense pressure to get things right this course, because it will set me up for my next year of constant, painstaking, WRITING.

My next sequence of classes will be the absolute most important year of my life. I can’t ignore the fact that I’m very nervous, but I also know that I can truly do this, and there is an excitement buzzing underneath. I’m a ball of emotions. But for now, I’m finished with my classes, at least for a few weeks. And I feel as if I want these next weeks to be as easeful as possible.

Working, while in school, while being a parent, while being an adult, is tough work. It leads to long hours, days where your absent from family and friends, loneliness, etc. It is a tough ride, but well worth it in the end. But now that I can take one major load off my plate, I am going to make time for the things and people that matter the absolute most. Also, take some time to really be me.

Im hoping the latter part of the summer is an enjoyable one; a moment to rest, recuperate, and recharge before we get down and dirty with Chapters 1-3.