I slayed the beast.
(Although it nearly slayed me.)
I didn't properly prepare. Not because I didn't try, but because I was extremely distracted and unfocused. That makes for a very tough combination when looking to sit for the 291. I only glossed over IPSec, didn't study any WSUS (Only had SUS material available) and kinda rushed through RRAS. I did spend a good deal on DNS, DHCP, and IP Addressing. A quarter of the way through the test, I was getting really bummed because I felt like I didn't know the material. I had to skip and go back at the end. Fortunately, as I went back, I realized that I did know that stuff, but I just didn't have the strongest command. Its a horrible feeling to go into an exam feeling unprepared, and it adds anxieties to the mix. I wouldn't wish that on anyone. Please learn from my mistakes.
Well, I passed anyway, and I know what weaknesses I need to address going forward. Man, that minute or so from the end of the exam, to the results screen seemed to take forever. Anyway, its off to the 293 and CCNA for me (while addressing some 291 opportunities for improvement). I'll just have to get my focus back, and end my distractions. Thanks everyone at TE for all of your help, support and knowledge sharing.
