If the blog posts stop...

…it’s because I’ve self-destructed from intense nerves. Friday is the day I take the big (6-hour! all essay!) cumulative exam for my Master’s program. I usually get a sizable amount of nerves for regular exams, but this exam has an additional minor detail. You know, the whole “if-I-don’t-pass-it-I-don’t-graduate” thing, which makes me want to 1) run far away, 2) find a bag and hyperventilate, or 3) run far away and then find a bag and hyperventilate. There might be a few things I’m good at (like scouting out bargain souvenirs or boiling water), but handling stress simply isn’t one of them. Husband and my Mom have given me a number of pep talks with very sensible advice. When Husband heard that the pass rate was 80% for first-time test takers, he said, “Are you kidding me? Of course, you’re going to pass. In fact, I bet you could take the test right now and pass.” My Mom said, “If I passed my comp exam, then you can definitely pass. Don’t even worry about it!” I definitely appreciate their encouraging words. But, I find that they’re lacking in more constructive advice, like what to do if I faint while taking the exam or how I discreetly throw up in a quiet testing room without causing a scene. Ok, I’m joking (a bit). I know that things will work out ok. I know that somehow I will get through the exam. And I’m hopeful that I will pass. I’ve just never been so excited to see Saturday.