Does this mean you're part woman Wally? You don't fit your own description there at all! (I mean that in a nice way, obviously)

Doctor?, it sounds as if the situation is really hard for you, and I wouldn't advocate risking your wellbeing. But at the same time, it would be terrible to have gone through it, even written your thesis, and then to have nothing in return. Would it be possible to seek support rather than just walking away? I'd second the idea of a counsellor, someone who can give you emotional back-up in a bad situation, rather than you having to lose out as if it's your fault.
I'm guessing that given your stuck with this unhelpful person (I'm assuming that even after their clearly making false allegations, you don't have the option of ditching them?), you won't want to take a break and return later. Do you have other supervisors or academics who could support you so you can simply cut this person out?

Academics like this ought to be shot! There really are some evil gits amongst them.
As Sneaks says, you seem to actually like the phd, in which case it would be a terrible shame to give up your plans just because of this woman. Given she's not your primary sup, is there any chance of getting her replaced? I think that if it's having this kind of effect on you then you must talk to someone about it, either your first sup or (if you have one) a third party monitor or head of department.
It's clearly not personal but I know that doesn't make it any easier to cope with. See if you can find a way round this before you make any major decisions.

It sounds utterly sh*tty and I hope it doesn't come to anything. If there is some kind of coup planned though, far better for you to be aware of it and able to make plans. If you can bear to, it might be worth taking the better of these senior academics aside and having a direct talk, if they've any decency they'll respect you for it and maybe even suggest some way of resolving the situation. Sorry I can't be more help, hope it all works out ok.

Woo-hoo, well done sneaks!
I think I broke the 1000 today. But I'm a little short on my tomato tally and I'm scared that letting myself off that hook will start a trend. I really want to go and vegetate but I think I need another hour at the coalface/laptop *sigh*

Looking at mine, they mostly seem to be 150-200. 250 sounds fine but I agree that in double spacing it looks a lot more than it is. I reckon as long as it doesn't feel too long when you're reading and the subject within it is concise, then don't worry.

I wish I could give up procrastinating! I'm already on the exercise kick (well, trying) and realistically I'll never completely stop my time wasting ways. So I'm going to try and do a little bit of yoga and meditation most days. Working from home for the write up so there's really no excuse.

Bleurgh.
I finished my first draft intro/lit review chapter but suspect its mince and am struggling to get into the methodology section that I planned for this afternoon. Every day really is such a roller coaster just now - far too much time to think I suspect!

I'd agree with keep calm, it's entirely possible but requirements do vary from place to place. I got into my phd with a 2.1 honours degree and a year in industry, no masters or publications. A lot of four year phd programs now include a masters or rotation year before starting your phd project, so that could be another option if you need more experience before beginning your research.

Haha, nice one Mog 8-)

Sneaks is right, often there's nothing you can do. And I'd second Mog's sugegstion, it might help both your chances and your nerves if you were able to meet people beforehand.

Could your career's service give you some sort of practice interview so you can get your confidence up a little? It sounds like you could really benefit from just learning how to answer questions on the spot and maybe practicing techniques for calming down in that situation. In terms of the interviews themselves, remember that it's always ok to ask for clarification or to take a few seconds to marshal your thoughts before answering.

If its just the anxiety of the whole situation then you could even consider trying something like hypnotherapy to help you master your nerves.

I like the sound of the last boyfriend Eska, and I agree, I think that anyone who tries to undermine your self confidence needs looking at twice.
Scaredgirl thank God that one's an ex! What a turd :-s I'd have smushed that cake into his sarky face.

A lot of men can't honestly tell anyway. I remember about a year into our relationship, when my mum was concerned I'd lost weight. Husbands response was "I don't really think you've changed, but if aything I'd guess you were maybe a kg heavier". I got on the scales to resolve things and found I was a stone lighter than when we met! And there's me worrying that he can see a difference after a few spusd at christmas 8-)

Good luck Bwad!

Thanks Sally :-)

And well done on your word count, that's great if you can make such consistent progress (up)

Ps - Sneaks that is priceless! Hehehe 8-)