What I had planned (to do) for my XMAS break...

So, there I was, Wednesday afternoon, ready to walk out the door to leave and pick up ther terrorists and I walk by my boss, who decides to drop a bomb on me. He has finally come to the conclusion that he needs a deputy (we will call it DO for director of operations), but is thinking it won't happen for a few months. Guess who is first in line...me. The only other person in the squadron who outranks me is deploying in February. Then, on Thursday, again, as I am leaving, I get called into his office, as of 1601 of that day I am his DO. So, of course, I get the nod (officially) on Friday. I am scared WITLESS! Yes, I wanted the position, but seriously, I was hoping for a few more months of flight command and I didn't really think I would get it.
Something is up in the Wing power structure, and my boss is running scared. This position could make (or break) my career. It's a BIG deal! I have only been a Major for 5 months. I have only been a flight commander for 7 months. I could, feasibly be in charge should my boss drop dead tomorrow.
Did I mention, I am scared?
Additionally, I now have to work through the holidays, though I am going to try to keep the days short.
And that trip to Keesler in January? That might be on hold as well. AND, I have to make a trip out to Nellis in the next two to three months to become familiar with our satellite site out there. And we are already short of manpower, so I am still 1/2 way in charge of my flight.
I also start teaching a new class (one I haven't taught before) in January. And I didn't realize I signed on to teach 4 classes at once!! Am I a freaking idiot or what?
Life was chaos before, but now it's going to be pure bedlam for at least 3 months!
And I am still taking my own Master's classes. I have reached the point where I am starting my research. It's not a full blown thesis, but it's more than a regular research paper.
I had started looking into online PhD's as well, but I am not sure that will be possible...ever.
After talking with my boss about what this new job means, I might be looking at a Squadron Command in a few years. If he had his way, I would replace him in July (at least that's what he says). It might also mean getting an in-residence spot for Air Command and Staff College as well as a better chance for a below-the-zone promotion. Of course, these are all maybes, not definites, but the new job implies that's the path they are putting me on. I am not sure it's what I want. I have never really see myself as command material or anything like that. I just wanted to do a good job and take care of my people.