Thursday, January 29, 2009

Bring your Birkenstocks

We all know about the stereotypes of Eugene, OR. Patchouli oil, birkenstocks, bikes, bongs, and...well, maybe cool punk anarchists. I don't know that any of these particular items were a part of the meet and greet tonight, but there's was definitely a classic, Eugenesque sense of "chill" about the group of current students welcoming all of us applicants. And as much as I tease about hippies (specifically my sister Leah), I'm much more at home in this crowd than the my-research-is-bigger-than-yours folks at more high-powered programs.

I felt about as confident and comfortable as I could imagine being in light of having been an hour late to the meet and greet. Maximizing the minimal time with Leah today was a big blessing. This is not to mention that she had both of her late morning/early afternoon appointments cancel. Nice to see Leah and Gabe's place. I know I tease you both about being dirty hippies, but I was impressed by the neatness and cleanliness. Totally great to see Laney and share a bit of a rushed but nonetheless wonderful little moment together. Somehow in the course of our strange and sporadic friendship, Laney (and I know I told you this Laners), you have become like a sister; like family. I will hold you, your sisters, and especially your mom in my prayers. I really was tickled that Laney's boyfriend Ramman (spelling?) made the effort to introduce himself despite being sick and pressed for time. 

Off to bed with big thoughts about big things. Unlike in Arkansas, I really don't feel anxious or nervous. I feel strangely calm. And although I pretty sure my being exhausted, a bit sick, and having gone for a vigorous run has something to do with it, I know that with the Arkansas experience under the belt, being familiar with this place, and having chatted with about 8 different people who said I would fit in here and especially with Dr. McWhirter (for those of you interested in learning more about the guy I'd be studying under- his full name is Benedict McWhirter- you should google him- he's led an interesting life).  I actually only talked with one other applicant (I was really taking advantage of the short time tonight) during the 2 hours I was there. And at one point I found myself moved to tears just thinking about all that has come together for me to have put myself in this position; a bit akward, but mostly beautiful. I'm just basking in the self-satisfaction of a personal dream pursued...and, I think, about to be realized.



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