back from virginia

Just got back from a mini vacation/wedding reception in Virginia.

I think people are still puzzled about my hearing. My family says they are glad, but I didn't feel like I had a good visit with them (didn't get to visit all my relatives as much as I had hoped...not enough time I think). I sometimes wonder if it is because my family that doesn't see me a lot aren't sure how easy it is/isn't for me to converse... I think a lot of people wonder if I am following, not realizing I am upfront and will let them know if I need something repeated .

Over the trip I was impressed that I can converse fairly easily in a car. That is a big feat because the car has a lot of noise... car noise, blowers from air conditioning, maybe a radio, maybe kid noise... Mom and I didn't have any problems. If I didn't catch something, I would ask her to repeat it.

When we went on a tour of the Luray Caverns our first guide was an old man. That was tough, just as a stereotype... eldery men don't move their mouths very much. But then, he took off and we were switched tour guides and despite the dark cavernous conditions, I did great. We also took a tour the following day of Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's home). I easily understood almost everything... had to confirm a few things with mom, but did very well.

The wedding reception was tough... as I knew it would be. There were a lot of people and loud music. I have learned not to let it upset me anymore. I think I finally understand the concept a speaker was trying to convey at a living with hearing loss workshop a long time ago. Have realistic expectations and know that you will have trouble in certain situations. I thought I would never be able to accept that, but honestly, you do over time. Now, I realize I am much better in smaller groups where the conversation doesn't move too fast and people are making an effort to include me. I know that can't always happen, so when I am forced into noisey situations I may normally avoid, I just know it won't be for me like it is for everyone else.

I go Wednesday for some more mapping. Hopefully we will hear soon from insurance and know one way or another if the second implant has been approved. Keep that one in your prayers for now. I am finally writing about all of my experiences the past three years. Hopefully with a lot of work, it can be a manuscript some day!!!!