qualifying for...something or other

Just a quick note before I bury my nose back in a book: On Friday I'm taking my Qualifying Exams (after which, assuming I pass, I will be a Ph.D. Candidate and ABD--"all but dissertation"), so if it seems that I have been particularily MIA these past few weeks/months, that's why. Perhaps after my exams, when I have time to breath again, I will report on the incredible craziness of the last few months. Perhaps. In any case, rest assured that if I owe you an email or a letter or a phone call, you'll be hearing from me soon.