Well, it is raining and overcast today, fall is coming, we are in our fourth week. There are 5 people in the class and this morning we all looked like we were dragging. We are getting ready for a big test and we are starting to actually interpret. It is like we are taking the puzzle pieces and putting them together. We are learning the finer points of ASL and how to correctly use it.

This morning we were struggling with 3 simple sentences. It should be so easy, but it isn't. How do I want to say this, topic/comment, CL, did I say too much, did I leave something important out.... Where is the wall? Did you get the shovel, did you start shoveling?

I have to say that April cleared up some of my fears about interpreting. We have gotten several empowering messages this week.

1. If you want to improve and you want to know what is wrong with one of your video's take it upon yourself to go to Aprils office and ask her to watch it with you. It is UP TO YOU! It is your responsibility to ask, if you want feedback.

2. If you deliever a message and you get feedback and no further questions are asked then the message is assumed to be understood. Do not shoulder responsibility for aspects of communication that are not your responsibility. Be a capable and competent interpreter, know your abilities, put the message out there. Then go have dinner and a drink your day and job are done. This was one of my worst fears. There will be times when a client does not get the message, but if you put it out there correctly and concisely, got feedback and no other questions were asked, job over.

3. I thought it was such a compliment to hear that we were chosen for the program. Man, did that make all the blood, swear and tears that were last year worth it. Ruby, darn near scared me to death. Her tests almost made me vomit. I wanted to well on them.

Today made me think a lot, not just about interpreting, but my personal life as of late. Don't make excuses, do the best you can and move on. Do not shoulder responsibility that isn't yours. Take care of yourself and expect those around you to do the same. There is no problem asking for help and it will be given if those around you see that you are trying.

Time to study for the test, OY!