Oh, Happy Day!
13 Dec 2011
As some of you know, I have been working toward my PhD in Russian literature for the past seven years. After four years of course work and two sets of grueling comprehensive exams, I was set free to write my dissertation. I have been working on it for the past three and a half years, and comrades, it is finished!! These pictures were taken just after I received the green light to file it with the university. I don’t think it has completely sunk in yet, but I am very happy nonetheless!
For such a happy occasion, nothing but my red boots would do:) They are so beloved, and I feel kind of magical when I wear them. (My mom found these for me at our favorite thrift store–yes, I know, my mom is made of pure gold!)
What’s all the more wonderful is that this is such a joyful season to be celebrating in, and there are so many happy things to look forward to! On Wednesday I head up to Berkeley to file and to receive my official PhD Lollipop (a Berkeley tradition!), and then Eric is coming up on the weekend for more celebrating, including of his birthday! Then it will be Christmas, and then Eric’s parents are coming to see us in late December, which is going to be tons of fun! I feel kind of overwhelmed with gratefulness, and I think that’s not a bad thing at all:)
I am so grateful to everyone who has loved and supported me in these years, everyone who has encouraged me, everyone who has stood by my side during this process. This PhD belongs to you too:)

Dec 13, 2011 @ 18:40:58
Congratulations again Dr. Kiki. I know I don’t have to say it but you have accomplished what I have always told you ever since you were a teeny tiny little Kiki. I am so proud of you! Love yld.
Dec 13, 2011 @ 19:07:34
Thank you so much, sweet Daddy! I love you!
Dec 13, 2011 @ 20:54:27
Yay! And congrats again! Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow and having a celebratory feast…Any ideas about where you want to go (she who finished her dissertation clearly gets to choose the restaurant)? 🙂
Dec 14, 2011 @ 15:30:41
Thank you so much! I can’t wait to see you!!!!
Feb 06, 2013 @ 00:23:55
This is your happy outfit!
Feb 06, 2013 @ 22:28:12
Yes indeed!