The Firing Squad

I had my thesis defense this past Monday. That's where you take the all the research you have done in the past 3.5 years, present it before the public, let the public rip you with questions, then let your committee tear you apart in a closed-door session, exit the session in shame and humiliation, and finally get called back into the session after an eternity of deliberation to see if you passed. Well...I passed, but will have to mend my defense-induced ulcers. It's weird...you would think that an advanced degree would somehow bolster your intellectual self-image, but I have never felt as stupid as I did during that two and a half hours. Me name Dan. Me go sleep. By-bye.

Hey There, Boo Boo

Sometimes, instead of Build-a-Bear workshops in the mall, I wish they had Beat-A-Bear workshops. This would entail beating the stuffing out of a bear in lui of putting the stuffing in. If society had some sort of visceral, public outlet to sublimate angst and aggression, I think we would be better off. You may say that this niche is accommodated by organized sports and video arcades, however, football does not allow bear abuse and video games perpetuate social non-action. Moreover, bears have nothing to contribute to society or culture but chronic grumpiness and picnic theft. Down with the bear!

Bienvenidos a la mondial real.

I have a job (and it isn't Home Depot)! Wednesday, I was contacted by a small feed microscopy firm here in Manhattan who happened to see my posting on the university career services website. Thursday I had a 2.5 hour interview, and Friday I was made an offer (which was quickly accepted). I am a forensic food microscopist for Alteca Ltd. (http://www.alteca.com/), which means...well, I can't really tell you what it means because I just signed a non-disclosure agreement. Anyway, its funny how God chooses to answer prayer like the bomb diffuser in movies, always at the last second. I am constantly humbled by his provision and faithfulness, and it perpetually amazes me how little faith I often demonstrate despite this constancy. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for us in this matter. We really do have it good.