The Final Stretch

Seeing as my life is consumed by my thesis right now, I am inclined to start with an update. Monday of this week, I turned in my thesis to my committee. Wednesday of next week, my defense takes place. That means my weekend goals are: 1) create my Power Point slide show for the defense, 2) decide what I am going to serve my crowd for the 9:00 a.m. event (coffee is obviously a must, but I'm torn between Krispy Kreme doughnuts - the cheap, easy choice - and assorted pastries and scones - the more refined choice), 3) purchase gifts for my thesis committee members, 4) purchase plates, napkins, cups, etc., and 5) study my thesis and practice my presentation until my brain refuses to work.

If I had it my way, Cracker Barrel would cater my thesis defense.
American Breakfast by Yorkshire Soul

Some people find it surprising that I have invited friends, co-workers, professors, and other acquaintances to my defense. Personally, I am much more comfortable in the presence of those I know and love (or at least like). Of the folks who have confirmed their attendance, it looks like I am going to have a crowd of park rangers, roller derby girls, graduate students, one energy specialist, and, of course, Mr. Audacity himself, who will be running around town the morning of to snag whichever breakfast goodies I decide to serve. Sounds more like a guest list to a party than a thesis defense, but in my mind it is a party . . . an intellectual party where I dually fill the hot seat and the hostess position, show off my research, endure the slings and arrows of my committee, and then celebrate my success with my eclectic crowd of supporters. Alright.

Defending my Thesis, MadMen style.

I am fully aware that I will have a final round of edits to go through, but I will put those off for the weekend to relax and celebrate (some more) down in the quaint shrimping town of McClellanville, South Carolina. Mr. Audacity and I, along with our two dogs, are headed to the coast for the annual Campfire Jam at Doe Hall Plantation, where we will spend four days enjoying music, eating our weight in seafood, snuggling by the fire, exploring the Intercoastal Waterway, catching up with friends, and, hopefully, squeezing in some antique shopping. All four of us will be sleeping in a two person tent together, which I expect will be very cozy. No computer, no phones, no shower, no electricity, no work . . . I can't wait.

Sunset Over the Intercoastal Waterway by Daniel Bates