The setting:
Comprehensive exams are in two weeks. I am about 50 books and a hundred miles away from being done with studying.
The dialogue:
Well-Meaning Friend: Hey Julia. How're things? How are you doing with comps studying?
Me: Not so great. I have so much to do! I really need to buckle down. I'm planning to just do nothing but study for the next two weeks.
WMF: Oh, too bad! So we won't see you [at our mutual friend's party] on Friday?
Me: Oh, no, I'll be there!
WMF: So you're buckling down after Friday, then?
Me: Yeah, pretty much. After Monday, actually. I have tickets to a play!
WMF: Right.
