  I haven't posted since Sunday, so I thought I'd preemptively post before I was accused of slacking off. The first part of my qualifying exam is due soon, and it's not going well. Whether that's due to my underestimating its difficulty and time requirements, or whether I've missed out on some crucial part of my graduate education, I'm not sure yet. Anyway, I'm working hard to churn out something, but it's slow going. So, there's been a lack of fun adventures lately. I'll be taking Saturday off in honor of my birthday; I decided to throw a party here, so I'll post about that, time permitting. Beyond that, hope the scientific muse smiles upon me. 
