Thesis Defense

My thesis defense was this afternoon, and I passed. There are still a few minor tweaks that the paper needs to be perfect. But the important thing is that I survived the process. And no, it was not the torturous grilling over red hot coals that so many people have described to me. There were a few tough questions, but that's the point. It's been nice to work with a committee--and especially the professor who has been my committee chair--who want me to succeed at this. Now, to fix those bits that still need seeing to before the end of the week so I can get this turned in and graduate on time. 

No pirates were harmed in the defense of this thesis paper. (And you thought there was no way to mention pirates in this post.)