A warm hello from your long absent blogger.
During my hiatus some helpful events transpired, so I'll begin the update with them. First, I've finally figured out a schedule that effectively integrates paid work, research, writing, and my small bit of social time left between eating and sleeping. I've also begun to make some significant improvements in the processes/procedures at paid work, which means I no longer leave feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. That is one of the most beneficial things that has happened over the last month or so - I finally have control over my life again. Yippee!
In research news, I've had two meeting with my supervisor and my work (which was derailed for a bit last term) is finally back on track. This has made me breathe another big sigh of relief. I've also been having more discussions with OPP2 about researching poverty. One of our most recent discussions culminated in him asking if he could quote some of my research from my MA thesis in his DPhil...woo-hoo! It's my first (known) citation in an academic work! Very cool.
Right now, I'm finalising the chapter (yep, the same one...it just doesn't want to be finished I tell you!). After that, I'm going to revisit my MA thesis and rework one of the chapters into an article that I will try to have published in a journal. I'll let you know how that progresses.
In football news, Spurs ended the season 5th in the league! Since the top 4 teams (Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal) always tops the league each year, 5th place has become known as the new "1st". They are, in effect, "the best of the rest" (the rest being all those outside of the "big 4"). Awesome news for Spurs as it means they will once again be playing in Europe for the UEFA Cup competition.
I've also been busy (with 3 other co-conveners) planning the Social, Cultural and Economic History seminar series that we will once again run next year. We're excited about our potential speakers and that it was successful enough this year to make it worthwhile to continue.
Also, also, the Portland Timbers season has started and it has been fun (albeit bittersweet) to follow their triumphs and woes so far this season. Some of my wonderful friends back in Portland have sent me surprise Timbers themed care packages which have helped immeasurably to lessen the sadness of being away. Thank you Howie, Katie, Betsy, Gisele, and all the US cidergirl contingent!!
Well, I think that will have to be enough for now. I have another deadline I'm working to, so must get back to writing. Will try to make sure my next update is much sooner than the last.
