Better By Nightfall

I've been trucking along on my thesis lately, trying my best not to let the stress of the entire project bear on me to the point that I can no longer work on it. Some days are easier than others; I get a lot of work done when I can get "in the zone" and find myself enjoying the process of coding and writing. Other days are harder; I fall behind in my schedule of work, attempting to balance my research with my insane teaching load.

Still, I'm pushing myself to get through all of it because I know I am capable of finishing this milestone in my life.

Everything I have done has led me to this point in my life. Every action, every decision, and every mistake have propelled me to this juncture, resolutely affirming my presence in the here and now. I know I belong here and I know that, for all of my time at this point, I am going to continue to move on past it and be stronger for it.

In this process of making the comfortable uncomfortable—of who I am and who I will be—I am unwavering in my determination. Although the thesis may get me down from time to time, I will not let it consume me and reduce me to doubt and uncertainty. I will rise to this challenge, vivified, unwavering, and secure in myself.

I am a fighter and you are witness to the champion in me.

Every year, starting last year (not a longstanding tradition!), my university recreation center sponsors a 5K fun run to beat the current football coach. Proceeds from the run go to funding student scholarships and, for every student that beats the football coach, $10 are donated to helping fund scholarships. While I did no participate last year, I was chomping at the bits to trailblaze past Coach Pete this year.

I am excited to report that not only did I beat Coach Pete (as you can see in the photo), but I also smashed his time. I ran the 5K in 24:34, beating his 30 minute 5K, and I have the t-shirt to prove it!

Now I need to continue training up for the Susan G. Komen Race for the cure! Care to donate?

I found this website through a recent search of the comments posted on Facebook about the upcoming This American Life Live broadcast and instantly fell in love with it.

Printed and pressed posters of many of the bands that you probably listen to are on here and it is easy to search for them. The posters are relatively well priced and the designs are atypical and intriguing! If you're a music-geek, you'll probably love this site too.

Don't you agree?