It has been a weird couple of weeks. I'm currently in that post-study, pre-exam zone where my mind is racing and I have trouble thinking of anything but computational physics but I'm not doing anything but answering email and listening to music.

In three and a half hours I get my ass kicked by four of the toughest professors in the department. I do not feel prepared at all. In general, the oral component of the qualifying exam is much easier to pass than the written, so I wouldn't worry. But Karen brought up a good point which is that they passed almost everyone on the written this year which means that perhaps they are transitioning over to a new policy, in which case I could be screwed.

Believe me, I have no trouble envisioning nightmare scenarios right now of crashing, burning, and then getting struck by a rogue meteor. This won't be pretty, the question is will it be enough.

In related news, my friends rock. I've basically been living out of my office since 6.270, studying all day long. Various people have brought me cookies, brownies, cold medicine, tea, a grapefruit [??], gnutella, hugs, and encouragement. Thanks to all of you.