Hello friends,
This is just a quick post to let you all know that I haven’t given up on blogging. I love it. I miss it. Most importantly, I miss you. It’s been three weeks since I last posted.
Why haven’t I posted, you ask?
Here’s why.
I’m simultaneously taking the two highest level research methods courses (a.k.a. statistics) offered in my program this summer while working full-time. These courses have already caused tears to shed and have created hours spent reading, researching, writing, calculating, interpreting, and analyzing. Frankly, I’m exhausted and it’s only June. My classes started May 10. Unfortunately, they last until the first or second week in August.
It’s going to be a long summer. Please add me to your prayer list this summer. I’ve come to the realization that I can’t do this on my own and without God’s help. It seems as though I’ve tried that lately.
I haven’t posted an update about my school progress in a long time. This semester is the beginning of my third year in my Ph.D. program. I plan to finish all of my courses, write my first three dissertation chapters, have my proposal meeting, take comps, and get admitted to candidacy this school year.
Once I am admitted to candidacy (which happens after passing comps) I will get IRB approval and will then be allowed to begin collecting data for my research. It’s going to be an important and stressful year.
I hope to spend the following year collecting data, interpreting data, and writing my results (i.e. finishing my dissertation).
If all goes according to plan I should be able to finish this nightmare degree in two years (this year and next). Hopefully, I can have my dissertation public defense either spring of 2013 or summer of 2013.
Please don’t lose faith in my blogging capabilities. I hope to post at least a few times over the summer. Blogging is my stress reliever. It is my time to think about fun things and pretty things and things that DON’T involve focus and concentration.
I sure wish this is what my professors mean when they tell us to study.
Abby, I will be praying for you. I can't imagine how in the world you do it!!! You are one incredibly strong woman, and I admire you for what you are doing. I feel we'll have to throw you a big party when you are completely finished. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteAs for me, I'm just trying to complete my master's. Thank God for summers off. Otherwise, I don't think I would do it. I'm camped out on the couch today. When Colby works, I camp out and finish as much as I can in one day.
Good luck! We Love You! My internet and table are prepared for you on July 4th =)
I can't imagine... my brain hurts just thinking about it. I almost cried just THINKING about it. Blogging will still be here after the summer, Abby! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I'll keep you on my prayer list! :)
Erin @ Dwell & Tell
Oh my gosh, Abby! That sounds so stressful! I wouldn't be able to do it all but I know YOU can! good luck and I'll be praying for you! Miss yall!
ReplyDeleteThanks all for the sweet comments. Your prayers and words of encouragement are much appreciated. It so nice to know I have friends to lift me up when needed. This is a stressful summer, but this too shall pass.
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