DeepBlueEclipse

Very encouraging to see I am not the only person going full blast under these circumstances! I am due any moment and I have a 3 year old son at home currently. I also help to care for my father who is very ill, and am the only transportation for several family members to and from work over 20 miles away in opposite directions. Right now I am taking two summer PHD courses, am working part time for my program, and will finish my PHD coursework this Fall if all goes as planned. I really don't have the option to take any time off given financial concerns. That said, it has been difficult to stay afloat even without the newest addition to my family, but I have done quite well in managing. As others have noted, despite how challenging it can be, it is also very rewarding. Further, I think in some ways this unique situation is beneficial, at least in my situation- the workload is intense, but at least it is somewhat flexible each day. And to the last poster- studying for finals in the birthing triage? I'll be writing research proposals and completing my final week of classes in triage and recovery myself. Again, it is a relief to know that as crazy as it may seem to some, others are doing the very same thing.