Monday, March 8, 2010

Not just another Monday!

Today was not just another Monday in my life. Today was a day I've worked toward for a very, very long time. It was one marker of the achievement of my biggest life goal. It was a day that, at times, I had to have faith that it would eventually come.

Today I successfully defended my dissertation.

Today I was addressed for the first time as "Doctor" (though in its strictest sense won't be technically accurate until I deposit, at a minimum, perhaps until my degree is conferred in May).

Today it felt like the weight of the world was lifted from my shoulders. It felt like this:


The best part is that it looks like revisions will be minor, and that I should be able to deposit in fairly short order. The end is really in sight! This is real! Plus, Mr. Joanna got to attend the defense (and take the picture), and that meant a lot to me. To those of you who prayed for me, I cannot thank you enough. God gave me peace. God reminded me that HE called me to this place. That this was His work.

I almost hate to mix topics in this post, because it means SO much to me. However, I reached another (smaller) milestone today that deserves to be noted: I surpassed the 100-mile mark for the year.

Last Friday I did an easy 3.9 miles, mostly to try to loosen up after the track workout last Wednesday. Then on Saturday Meg and I did an 8-miler, though a bit slower than our last long run. We were both still sore from our first track practice and decided that combined with our mileage hike, it wasn't the week to be heroes. It was a great run and we had a great time. Then this morning (in all my anxiety), I did another 3.9 miles. I ran hard and enjoyed every second of it. It was nothing short of perfect, with foggy, cool weather.

84.7 + 3.9 + 7.9 + 3.9 = 100.4 miles



5 comments:

Unknown said...

Congrats on the dissertation defense. Proud of you. And congrats on breaking the 100 mile mark.

I refollowed you. Do not know why i am not listed you are still listed in my blogroll.

Anonymous said...

That is the most fantastic picture! Pure joy.

MJ said...

I love the picture and am so happy for you. Knowing only some of the many mountains and valleys you have experienced in this journey, it is truly AWESOME to see you reach this goal! I'm thinking back on many of our walks and our discussions and am so happy that God has guided you through this experience!
PS - I went for a walk last week and wished we could have been walking and chatting together. Miss you!

Run Jess Run said...

Congrats Doctor!!! That's so cool that your hubs could be there, too! And congrats on the 100-mi mark!!

I'm training for the Traverse City Bayshore Marathon's 10k, my first 10k. I was going to run the half, but they only allow 2000 runners and registration for that was already closed. So I settled for the 10k instead.

Run Jess Run said...

We have no snow left here. I hope you weren't coming to MI for any snow-filled events:)