Oh, Happy Day!

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:)