Michael's Birthday, Halloween, and some other great pictures

http://picasaweb.google.com/RSMaryFischer/NewPhotos?authkey=7UErNUgA-0E#

Comprehensive Exams

I passed my comprehensive exams! There were two parts, written and verbal. The written went well. The verbal wasn't as straight forward though. The committee saidthat my knowledge of the content was fine but that I had to work on my interpersonal communication. They said I was too mild mannered and too relaxed. It isn't like they are telling me something new. I never thought you could be too relaxed.

Jack

Here are some more pictures of Jack!

Thesis Defense

I defended my master's thesis on Wednesday. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the process, it is not pleasant. I mean, the word to describe the event is 'defend' not 'present.' Basically, I had to explain my study for two hours in front of a committee of faculty members. They questioned me about my theoretical arguments in the paper as well as the analyses I conducted. In the end, it went alright, and I only have to clarify a few issues. I do not have to redo analyses or conduct any additional ones. That should make the corrections go quick.

After this, I only have to take my comprehensive exams and finish my dissertation. Only two years left.

new baby

We had our second baby on Saturday morning. It took a few days to choose a name but we settled on John Park. He is way more relaxed than Mike. All he needs is a burp or a poop and he is calmed down and ready to go.