So, ever feel like tipping it all into the garden and setting fire to it, even perhaps including a tribal dance waving one's arms whilst swigging something very strong from a bottle? Well, I'm having one of those days. Even looking at how strong the trees are swaying to gauge how far the smoke would travel. I then drift off to try and work out how long it would take to travel by foot to Australia.

As you can see, I'm not having a very productive day! How you doing? :-s

Hi Sneaks,

I have the same worries - due to finish June, but thinking more September. Hubby and I are relocating to Australia at the end of the year. Although it's exciting I feel like I'm starting all over again. I know folk here in the UK, enough to pester for nods for 'whats occuring'. Been sending out my CV to all the majoy universities where we will be living in Oz (becoming a bit of a pest) but for the past 12 months there has been nothing advertised work wise that I could apply for, which I'm spooked about. (very much the same here though). I've really enjoyed researching and working from home, but don't think that's going to happen - unless a nice book deal comes through!. :p

YES! All the time!

I'm writing about animation, both historical and contemporary. Biggest fear is that I sound like an idiot, but I know that it's my views and happy for folk to argue it!

Thanks guys - I am seeing a tutor, who is also a friend, for lunch today. I really do think that I need a holiday - up until now I've been fine. But I will let me supervisor know how I'm feeling and see my PhD co-ordinator. Thank you. ;-)

I only have 10 months to go and I'm not sure if I can continue. I'm not sleeping, my heart is racing and I'm feeling on the verge of tears all the time. When I say to folk - mainly family and friends that I'm having a tough time and I'm not sure it's worth me feeling this unhappy they all tell me 'but you will regret it' or 'you can't quit now, you've come so far'.

I don't know if it's because I've had no supervisor for a couple of months due to summer break. I'm also going away on holiday next week for 3 weeks, which I'm almost tripping myself up trying to get there, and I think I'm having anxiety about being away from my desk. Jezz I don't know, I just don't feel right in myself. I've been up since 5.00am and its now early hours of the following day but I'm just tossing and turning. I don't see my supervisor till October now - 3 months since I last saw him, but that's due to holidays.

I need a holiday right? :-) Just having a dip in my confidence - wishing it was all done and dusted?

Well I hope everyone else is doing great!

Hi all,

Hope everyone is well!

I have my second year review in a couple of weeks and have just submitted my report, which my supervisor said was a joy to read. However, I'm stressing. I feel if they ask 'what have you up to over the last 12 months' I will stare into space and respond with 'you tell me'!

Last year has been all of a blur and it only feels like a few months since my first year panel. Feel like there is nothing in my head, nothing at all, well actually probably too much which is why I'm not able to make any sense of it. I'm just having a bit of a dicky fit, right?

Having one of those days when its just not working! My brain won't engage in anything, so I'm stepping away! Going to go and do some washing, play some loud music and have a large cup of tea. Just wondering what everyone else does when it's just not a research day! 8-)

Hello!

I was just wondering what the average time scale was from submitting for your Phd and the VIVA. I am due to submit June but have been told that it may not be to the following year till the VIVA. Sound about right? :p

I have a huge list of thanks from folk I have interviewed, IT folk who have set me up and advised on equipement. Anyone who I feel has contributed to my research and supported me so far. Although I'm not including the NEXT delivery man, who can sometimes be the hightlight of my week (sad, I know).

Hi Scarlett,

It took sooooo long for my DSA to come through, just under a year. But it's worth going for it. Best thing is the book allowance! But I got PC, dictaphone, software, proof reading and photocopying allowance. You are entitlted to it, so make full use of it. It's there to help!

We joke about the request for a Dr on board a flight and raising my arm. Yes, Dr here but can only help if its Mickey Mouse! (research is animation). May get you an upgrade though! (up)

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I do have a meeting with my supervisor tomorrow so will make an effort! Sitting on the edge of my bathroom cabinet is a hair colour (bright red) which I keep picking up. May do that this afternoon.

Nearly broke my neck slipping on the snow and ice in the garden as I skidded to the tumble dryer arms full of wet washing in my slippers!

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I was so feeling everything you mention. I miss BA -MA banter and it can feel very lonely.

I shifted from my first year to second year over the summer and before my panel meeting I was 'BRICKING IT'. As I sat outside I felt like I was waiting for results on a serious medical condition as I could here the panel whispering inside the room. I so very much wanted to get up and leave and not look back. I felt as if I had nothing to offer and actually they were going to laugh at me. But it went OK and they were fine, which I'm sure you will be!

I think the first year is tough as your not really certain what your doing is right.

You can do this - you have proved it with your BA and MA!

Good luck!

:-)

Does doing a PhD give you license to be scruffy and unwanted?

Flicking through my newly arrived Next catalogue I dream of nice clothes and shiny hair...oh and a bit of lip gloss. Instead I sit here with my hair sticking up in all directions, my tracksuit bottoms on and slippers! Very rock and roll! 8-)

Thank you, both of you. This was really helpful and I feel heaps better!

I am making my list, and your right its surprising how much you actually have done over the last 18months.

Again thanks! :-)