Still Breething

I’m studying for the written/knowledge portion of the National Interpreter Certification exam.  This test takes everything you have ever learned (or have yet to learn) about the history, culture, legalities, linguistic aspects, the overabundance of acronyms, medical classifications, business practices and ethical situations in regards to American Sign Language interpreting and bundles it all together into one exam, that happens to also cost a pretty penny.  So it suffices to say, I’ve been doing a lot of reading, researching, highlighting, book-tabbing and palm slaps to the forehead since my preparation course at Gallaudet University started on the 15th of last month.  

I have collected, what I must say is a pretty nice collection of references to aid in my learning and improvement of interpreting skills, but I continue to jot down names of other books that I feel I should have in order to be successful in this career.  Since I have this collection, I just need to find the time (ha!) to sit down and actually read, review and practice the information that is provided.  If there was some way that I could hire someone to gather up all the pertinent knowledge and then drop it into my hard drive (aka brain), I would…and I would slather them with kisses too.  Anyone want to look into this opportunity?  Yea, I didn’t think so. 😉

It’s really pretty crazy how fast this year has gone by!  It’s hard to believe that it’s August and almost time for kids and teachers to head back to school!  For the first time in a couple years I don’t have to worry about buying all the back to school stuff (though I really enjoy perusing that section in Walmart!) and get to save some money instead of forking out hundreds on textbooks.  So instead of all of that fun stuff, I’m honoring all of those who are spending their hard-earned pennies that are heading back to the realm of books and learning by offering great deals at both of my businesses, now through August 10th!

SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT!

Design4Sign, my graphic design business, will be giving $20 off all Logo and Website packages through the 10th!

Hands on Communication, my sign language business, is offering 3 great DVDs for 50% off ($10 each) that are great for heading back to school and enhancing learning and literacy skills!  Did you know that even hearing children’s literacy can improve by using sign and fingerspelling?  Check out this article to learn more!

I signed up for my 2nd 5k of the year just a few weeks ago.  Since I found The Color Run on Facebook months ago, I’ve wanted to do it.  I managed to convince a few friends of mine to do it with me at the Pittsburgh event coming up on October 12th.  I created our team , Coloring Outside the Lines, and am already mentally preparing my crazy outfit for the day.  So far in the work (mentally that is) are rainbow suspenders and matching tutu, as well as some crazy socks.  Trying to come up with ideas for a design for a shirt as well.

Would you be interested in joining us?  If so, email me and I’ll get you the registration information.  I’d love to have you join in on the fun!

Also, come out and support the walkers/runners of the Debbie Green 5k here in Wheeling.  I’ll be walking alongside my brother for Team Randy Stephens.  The events starts at 6:30 pm.

I have officially reached my first goal of this weight-loss business that I’ve been focusing on since mid-May!  I’m so excited to say that I’ve finally achieved a weight that I was when I was in grad school 8 years ago!  In years past it was a constant battle with my weight fluctuating but usually hovering around the same three numbers as I hit a plateau, that lasted for about 5 years.  It’s liberating finally climbing down off that flat surface and moving onto something much healthier!  

I must admit that I would not have made it off that plateau had it not been for a few different things, and so I must give thanks… 
My first statement of gratitude goes to my Lord and Savior who has listened to me struggle with this ongoing battle over the years, but who has also been my comforter when the scale kept creeping up instead of down.  

Next goes to my family and their encouragement.  Your constant reminders that I’m heading in the right direction keep me going.  Thank you all; I love you!

Many thanks to Lori for taking me to Zumba the first time back in May and then reminding me about classes for those first few weeks afterwards.  I couldn’t have changed my ways without your reminders!  Thank you!

To the amazing women that I work up a good sweat with at CCS Zumba classes (Tues. & Thurs. at 6:45 pm and Saturday at 8:30 am – Corpus Christi Gymnasium).  You ladies inspire me and I have really enjoyed getting to know each of you!

To Janie who showed off her awesome little gadget, the Fitbit, a few weeks back and got me thinking about how one of my own could help keep me motivated and active.  I’m now a proud owner of a pretty blue Fitbit Flex and to-date I have taken 28,673 steps since this past Saturday!  

Here’s to my next goal of 20 more!