As I sit down to write this blog, I’m overcome with a wave of gratitude and nostalgia. You see, receiving a congratulations letter to start my dissertation for my Ph.D. wasn’t just a milestone – it was the culmination of a journey that began as a joke. Yes, you read that right – a joke.

It all started with a simple desire: I wanted people to call me “Doctor.” It seemed like a lofty goal at the time, more of a whimsical dream than a tangible ambition. But as fate would have it, what began as a jest soon transformed into a serious pursuit of knowledge and self-discovery.

As I embarked on this academic journey, I never could have imagined the profound impact it would have on my life. Along the way, I fell in love – not just with the subject matter of my research, but with the process of learning and growing as a scholar. It was a transformational experience that opened my eyes to new possibilities and ignited a passion within me that I never knew existed.

But perhaps the most significant aspect of this journey has been the unwavering support of my spouse. From the very beginning, he believed in me – sometimes even more than I believed in myself. His encouragement, love, and understanding have been the guiding lights that have illuminated my path, even on the darkest of days.

Of course, our relationship isn’t without its quirks. We have a slight competition going on in our home – a friendly rivalry that keeps us both striving for excellence. But beneath the surface, there’s nothing but admiration and respect for each other’s accomplishments. My spouse is more than just my partner – he is my beacon, my rock, and my biggest cheerleader.

In his eyes, I see reflected the person I aspire to be – someone who is driven, compassionate, and always striving to make a positive impact on the world. He inspires me to do better, to reach higher, and to never settle for anything less than my best. I am endlessly grateful for his presence in my life, and I know that I couldn’t have made it this far without him by my side.

As I navigate the intricate balancing act of being a content creator, a student, and an interior decorator, I’m constantly reminded of the importance of finding equilibrium in all aspects of life. It’s not always easy, and there are certainly days when I feel overwhelmed by the demands of my various roles. But through it all, I’ve learned to prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and embrace the messy, beautiful chaos of life.

In conclusion, receiving that congratulations letter was so much more than just a formality – it was a validation of years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. But more than that, it was a testament to the power of love, passion, and unwavering support in helping us achieve our dreams. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

So here’s to the journey – the highs and the lows, the laughter and the tears, and everything in between. May we continue to learn, grow, and love with open hearts and boundless enthusiasm, knowing that the best is yet to come.

With love and gratitude,