It's For Real Now: What Lies Ahead?

This has been a heck of a voyage!  From the club contest in March so much has happened to shape the confidence builder of a lifetime.  Tomorrow I embark on my journey to whatever awaits in Malaysia.  Win or lose I have had a blast, met wonderful people (like my friends Naomi and Toni, above) and discovered I could do more than I thought possible.  I hope I have prepared well and thought about what it means to tell my story.  It's a little scary to think I am now going to the big show and I have no idea what will happen there.  Toastmasters from all over the world!  The chance to see the very best speakers in the world, to learn new things and just maybe discover a little more about what I can contribute.  It's for real...Malaysia or Bust!

One Week To Go

It's down to one week before we leave for Malaysia on this grand adventure that I never expected before that unbelievable contest win in May.  I am down to six days to make whatever final preparations are needed, and the reality of it all is hitting hard.

I think the semifinal speech is ready.  It has changed some since May 3rd, based on feedback from my many club visits.  But I have fiercely defended the part of it that is me.  I vowed I would take this on as myself, whatever the risk.  This one will come from my heart.

The finalist speech is what it is.  I have written it, practiced it, adjusted it... and am still making more little changes.  I'm not persuaded it will ever see the light of day.  But I hope to complete work sometime before midweek.

And then there is the voyage.  We are almost packed, and our checklist has been filled in.  We are ready to enjoy the sights a bit before the convention opens, and I hope to get my mind, body and spirit in shape after the beating of an unbelievable flight.

I feel the warmth and encouragement from so many people.  I hope I am worthy of that support.

It's time to count the hours.

The Last Home Stand

Yesterday marked my last contest speech appearance before a live audience.  The local advanced club Top Triangle Toastmasters rolled out their second annual "Summer Speech Spectacular" and I was asked to present at the post-lunch slot.  A few observations:

* The speech went really well.  That makes three runs in a row that boosted my morale and that I hope will carry me to Malaysia.  Toastmasters people almost always are the best at providing an encouraging and uplifting environment.

* I was in a deep funk Saturday.  But the Speech event and the fellowship with Toastmasters did wonders for my spirits and energy.  I am more in love with this organization than ever!

* I grabbed the bull by the horns.  The best advice given in Toastmasters is to take the stage as often as possible.  I didn't let early morning and a depressed mood stop my taking two evaluation slots where I could practice the craft of evaluations.  It was a thrill to do that for very good speakers.

I look forward to doing this event again in 2015!  and more like it!