I was totally unprepared for what awaited me! I was blown away at how well these students were signing. Even my sister amazed me. (YES, my OWN sister!) All were hearing. There is sign language teacher at that school, which is also my church which I've been going to since I was 9 years old. The church is my second home and the people are my extended family. Sometimes the teacher asks for my help, and I've never turned down an opportunity to help teach sign and expose the students to the deaf world. Now that Gallaudet has loosened it's hold on me, I have more time to give.

Anyway, during practice that afternoon, they went about their parts, inquiring my assistance with some words they could not sign. It went well, to the sign language teacher's relief. So, they were all set for the following night. The ceremony started and ended beautifully. In between, the students gave wonderful performances and were all smiles getting their awards and promotion certificates. I forgot to mention one other thing- this was the school's very first graduation ceremony. Even the principal was moved to tears as the teachers presented her with a lovely bouquet of flowers. It was quite a celebration and an evening of surprises.

Ok, pencils down. Actually, that was a trick question.

When will the weathermen give an effective report? On Tuesday, there was a nasty storm moving towards the eastern parts of the country from the west. The weather reports screamed "Mix of sleet/snow." It never came, except for a few minutes of very small, light flurries. Of course, a lesson that never gets old..don't believe everything you see or hear. I used to love wintertime because of all the snow days, but at Gallaudet, snow days are like eclipses- rarely seen, but when they make appearances, it's special.

I've lived in Maryland most of my life. I have to say, the weather gets stranger and stranger every season. Just when we think it's safe to pack away the thick coats that weigh us down, the wool scarves, the boots, thermals, gloves and hats..it's time to take them out again. It's an easy excercise routine. Pack, unpack, pack unpack. The first day of spring break, it was a warm 83 degrees. The next day was a smack in the face with cold wind and clouds. At Gallaudet, the weather doesn't affect students' wardrobe. Deja vu? Yup.

So, it's Friday and sadly, my weekend life will be close to nonexistent. The first week back from spring break and I'm beyond up to my head in schoolwork. I've heard "sky's the limit" but in college, there really isn't any limit. That's the thing about college..learning doesn't stay behind once you leave the classroom. Rest assured, in the end, it'll all be worth it. ;)