Yes that's normal. I'd go further than chickpea - I think I spent the whole first year not really knowing what I was doing and now the thesis is coming along nicely.

Also yes - don't throw baby out with the bathwater, give it a bit longer and see if you get into it. Many new post grads want to quit in the first few months.

I'd echo Bilbo - you drop out you'll find it difficult for someone else to take a punt on you. I would suggest you do stay and finish the MSc and see if you can leave after that.

Yes it does come down to the word 'wish'. Is it essential or a desirable? If it's essential I probably wouldn't bother, if desirable I would. You'd need to show how you can get the required skills if they are desirable.

Don't forget you might not get pregnant when you want to get pregnant - I'm sure you can get maternity leave when you're on your scholarship.

I always think take the job if it's acceptable to you, unless you can't live without doing your PhD or there's lots of jobs going with a PhD in your area.

I'm an ex-lawyer now doing a PhD, where you from ;)?

Means they are waiting for the reviewers to agree?

I don't have access either, but your University should be able to get you an inter library loan within a few days if you ask them?

I guess it depends - do you know anything / been working for the last 12 years in modern lit? It never hurts to apply, but having the 'wrong MA' makes you an easy reject.

I'm quite similar - I 'left' work to do a PhD, and that adds to the anxiety I think. The first year is often spent wondering whether you've done the right thing or not? But it works out, and yes take a break its summer :).

I think you need to report him immediately?

Your background and experience, why you're interested in the topic, why you want to do a PhD, what's your ambition. Maybe something about methods and possible contribution to knowledge.

Not sure why previous poster was so vicious? Could you speak to the University and see if they have accommodation for you and your husband? You need to speak to them, maybe you'll need time off.

I don't think it's a major problem at all - if you're sure you can finish in the month? I found I didn't really do a lot in my first few months of PhD (just reading), although I may be in a different field.