I had an absolutely fantastic time last night, interpreting for the Mr. DC Eagle contest. I got an e-mail Friday afternoon from PSue asking if I knew anybody who could interpret for the contest because their scheduled interpreter had dropped out at the last minute. I immediately e-mailed her back and said that I would be delighted to fill in.

We got there shortly after 9:00, and I was introduced to several of the staff members, including Schelli, and others who would be assisting with the show. PSue got A and I situated where we would need to be and had the bartender make a drinks for A, and Angus provided a stool for A so she’d have a good seat right in front of me! I had a nice chat with Teddy, International Mr. Deaf Leather 2004, who was quite charming; I really enjoyed talking with him.

The show finally began, and I got to sneak a few glances over at the contestants as they were onstage. I missed everybody’s faces, though, so I couldn’t even tell you who won! There were only two deaf people in the audience that I know of, but they seemed to be having a good time so I think I did a good job of interpreting. A took a few dozen pictures, including some at the end with Teddy posing with me! I will have to sort through the pictures and see which of them are suitable for sharing…the trouble with interpreting is that it’s hard for a photographer to catch you in a “good pose!” And of course for this particular assignment, I’ll be juxtaposed with lots of (mostly) naked men!

I had such a great time, and I hope Schelli will contact me again in the future. I’d love to do this kind of thing again! (The only downside is that my hair reeks now…time for a shower!)