my early summer experience 2006

I am hearing phrases without lipreading every day. Some days I have to work to break the habitual skill of reading lips. In doing that, it brings amusement when I realize I hardly used my visual skill and wonder if I ever looked at the person. For example, I spent nearly a half hour with a librarian who guided me to audio books using the computer. Her voice was perfect for understanding and I was able to keep my eyes on the screen as she talked. When I returned a few days later, I had to recall what she might look like. I have finished listening and reading "The Pearl" by John Steinbeck. I am encouraged by listening books that I treated myself to an iPOD using gift money and will soon download audiobooks and listen most anywhere, rather than confine myself to a large tape deck at home. I still need the book to follow. I did bring home a bridged audiobook by mistake. However I quickly caught on and was able to detect the phrases quickly when I scanned the pages to find matching words. I would have never been able to do that before, as I can recall the frustration and would quickly give up.

I attended the Annual CI picnic that the CI team arranges each year. I think it is the third year now, and apparently it was the biggest turnout ever. It is good for us to go and share experiences and get feedback from others. I went last year when I was a candidate and got much encouragement. This year, I noticed a bit of a trait. Half of the recipients i spoke to were turning their heads slightly to direct the microphone toward the speaker. (I wonder if my accent is unique to them. I need to ask that question. I'll get into the topic of accents later.) I have been paying more attention to the location of my CI since and need to ensure I am in an optimal position for hearing speech. I also try to be aware of the program I am using on the processor when I enter a new setting or environment. I still need a little time to adapt as my experience is still somewhat premature.

I recently spent a weekend with family along with my Aunt and Uncle from Red Deer, Alberta. Their daughter and her husband, vacationing in Gig Harbor, WA, came for an evening and we socialized in a large group setting. I had an ability to understand and participate fully. I also offered to drive for my mother, aunt and uncle. There was ongoing chatter among us and I could make some sense of the conversation and join in easily while my eyes are fixed on the road. Group conversation is no longer tiring!

My daughters agree with no hesitation that I am having a much easier time understanding them and conversation is becoming more effortless all around. Big smiles abound.