Over the last few months I’ve gotten to know a German expression that I’d never really paid attention to before… After submitting my dissertation in November and now finally having defended it on Monday (!), plenty of friends expressed concern that I should keep myself busy so that I don’t “fall in a hole” (in ein Loch fallen) that’s been left behind after completing a major project. It makes complete sense. When you’ve been working on something for so long and so intensely, it can be a bit disorienting to suddenly have to create new routines and remember what you used to do with your time!
I’m definitely not worried about falling in any holes, though. There’s lots of exciting stuff on the horizon and my to-do list remains as long as ever. But I am taking a few days to recover from the intensity of the past couple of weeks. That means sleeping in, going for runs during daylight hours, writing cards while sipping on a cappuccino in a cafe, and taking a stroll through my neighborhood to snap a few photos. Heavenly!
Today, Bremen offered up just about the most perfect winter day you could hope for and I didn’t have any problem relaxing in the afternoon sun…
Have you ever fallen into a hole, literally (!) or figuratively? What would you do if you had a few days to yourself?
Cool saying! I’d never heard it before. I think the only time I have ever fallen in a hole is after graduating with my Bachelor’s, but I think that is a hole almost everyone falls into. Congrats on being really finished, defense and all!
I had also never noticed it until now, although I’d probably heard it plenty before it had anything to do with my life. Funny how that works, huh?
Great post, Mandi! Congratulations on getting your PhD – what a major life accomplishment. I look forward to reading what “exciting stuff” is in your near future. I like the expression “falling in a hole”, but I doubt either of us are capable of doing it. Of course, ask me again when my 4-year-old moves out of the house. :)
Yes, I guess I have to agree with you! You have a few years before you have to worry about that I guess. :)