Thanks Misincredible. I've emailed my prof a few times and he was very kind about my situation. I also emailed the department and they basically said I could extend if I wanted to, but I can't figure out how to fit it into my life, and like I said I'm at the point where I just need to be done.

I know right now I'm definitely in the shock/disbelief stage. Yesterday and today (so far) I've felt completely numb. I know this is natural but it is unsettling. I was thinking about my Gramma and got this really strong urge to call her and ask a question. It was bizarre, I knew she was gone but for a second I had to figure out that she was really gone forever.

I know that it is only going to get harder, so I'm trying to get everything done while I can. I hope that doesn't sound weird. At my Mom's best friend's funeral the minister came up to us afterward and said this is when the real grieving starts. I didn't really know what she meant, but I think I do now.

I really identified with everything you said Flybye, even though I'm not married and don't have kids. I think it's amazing that you've gone back to school and are figuring out how to balance everything. It is really hard, grad school is not really set up for a great work/life balance. I don't see anything wrong with taking more time to give yourself more time for family and the things the help you feel balanced. Actually, I think it's the smartest thing you could do. Also, I'm so sorry to hear that you are expecting a loss in your family.

I really appreciate your perspective as both a grad student and a counselor. I am at the point where I am ok with not being perfect and not getting a great grade on this paper. Which was hard for me. I want to pass it and I want to get my degree. I will still be incredibly proud of myself, if not more so for having been through all of this. A degree is a degree. I would just like to get it and be with my family and take time to grieve and heal.

I'm sorry this is so long. I know some people on the forum don't like advice threads too much. But I have to say you all have really, truly helped me. Sometimes it takes outsider perspectives so see things from a different angle. My friends and family are great supports but the women of TE are so diverse and I knew some of you had been/are currently in grad school that I wanted to hear your .02, too. So thank you!