Workload (giving thanks?)

So I have been insanely busy lately...to the point where I'm at school to almost 10 or 11pm every night, including weekends. Now, some days I don't go in as early, but that usually only varies by a few hours...between 9am and 11am. Last weekend, I don't think I went in until 1pm, but, I was a bit burnt out. Now, I don't work constantly for those 12 or so hours...I have small breaks, and sometimes larger breaks...or I'm in class (which these days, consist mostly of workshops)...and I can be quite unproductive before lunch (but I usually have to be there for class, or I wouldn't go in so early). And...by some fluke of the universe, I do happen to have the tiniest of social lives which I try to work in one evening a week.

However, it occurred to me as I was leaving at 11:30pm tonight, that I'm not sure I've ever worked so hard before! I mean, I worked pretty hard in college, and despite what some might think, high school was not an academic breeze for me. But, I didn't care for most of what I studied in high school. And I liked my first 4-yr degree and thoroughly enjoyed my art classes...but those projects would all get to a point where I was just...done. Here...ok, I sort of feel that way, but I often still work several more hours. I think it's because I generally enjoy what I'm doing. And I just want everything to come out well! I suppose it could be because I've sacrificed a lot to be here, and I'm determined to make the most of it...but I'm hoping it's the "being truly passionate" thing. ;)

Not that I'm not passionate about my art...but this is certainly a different kind of art. And through this whole process, not only have I second-guessed myself, and 25th guessed myself...part of it just seems ludicrous. Mostly, the only thing that worries me these days, is finding a really good job (and quickly). I have just had two friends recently turn 30 AND get wonderful, awesome jobs. I have another friend finishing grad school in Dec. and then turning 30 in Jan. I graduate in Feb. (Monday, the 25th!!), and of course...guess what's in April! So...I'm hoping the great patterns of my other friends continue for us next two gals. 4 for 4!!! I'm praying! And congrats to those great jobs already earned! I have to say, no Thanksgiving in Canada today, but I'm thankful for so much...including this opportunity...now if only I can quit worrying about it paying off!