I did a thing.
You guys know how I’m trying to stretch myself a bit. Not just in my work, though I am taking on new challenges there, but in my attitudes, my lifestyle, and my actions. I’m trying to push myself out of my comfort zone so I can learn to be more at home in the world outside of my house and maybe add more to it.
Well, one of the things that’s way outside of my comfort zone is any form of public speaking. Or any speaking, unless I’m with people I’m comfortable with. Writing is just easier, so I like to talk through my fingers. It works most of the time, but my discomfort with speaking is likely a huge part of my social awkwardness and desire to never have to go out and talk to anyone in person.
And my anxiety over making phone calls, actually.
So I’ve started a vlog. It’s not a big thing in the grand scheme of the universe, but it’s a huge step for me. It’s another way I can connect with you guys, too, and that’s important when I have no idea how many people actually read posts here. It’s a little more interactive, a little more challenging for me, and hopefully a little more fun for you. Videos will be short. The first one is 11 minutes, but I’m going to try to keep them under eight. I know you’ve got things to do.
Know what I’ve got? A Canadian accent, apparently. That’s been the big comment so far. At least people seem to enjoy it…
Anyway, here you go. Please enjoy my fumbling first attempt at letting the world see what I’m actually like when I’m not hiding behind my keyboard. Some day I’ll release the outtakes so we can all laugh. O.o
I’ve got a page of ideas for things to talk about (mostly non-writing), but if you have questions or ideas for topics, I’d be happy to fit them in. If I know what you want, I can give it to you. 🙂
disregard the prologue 
May 11th, 2016 at 2:07 pm
I’m impressed whenever someone steps out of their comfort zone, so yay Kate! Now that you’ve got the first one out of the way, you’ll be much more comfortable going forward. Congratulations!
May 11th, 2016 at 2:23 pm
Haha! I knew about your accent, because you’d mentioned having a thick one before. I think it’s cute. 🙂
Nicely done! I could tell how difficult it was for you in this video, but I’m sure it will get easier and easier. Kudos for being courageous enough to push yourself past that awkwardness to do this.
I’m not sure how you do it, but you make purple hair look natural.
May 11th, 2016 at 7:27 pm
Remember that it’s everyone else that has an accent. Canadians who grew up in Ontario don’t.
May 11th, 2016 at 8:14 pm
Good point. Thanks.
May 11th, 2016 at 8:25 pm
I’m soooo with you on the real world, Kate. 🙂 It’s wonderful to finally meet you in person. And good for you taking on this challenge! I’ve been thinking of trying it myself, and you are inspiring me. It’s much easier to communicate through the written word, isn’t it? I thought you did a fantastic job – your sense of humour is coming through really well. 🙂 Looking forward to the next one!
May 11th, 2016 at 9:07 pm
You did great Kate! You are very brave to challenge yourself. It is very inspiring. I am also very uncomfortable with public speaking and having a camera pointed at me but I thought you did an amazing job. I look forward to following your vlog. It’s going to be fun! You have a great sense of humor. 😊
May 11th, 2016 at 9:48 pm
Thanks, Kelli! It was kind of fun once I got into it.
May 15th, 2016 at 12:04 am
Wow, nice job and a great way to get out of your comfort zone. I’ve never thought of doing a vlog. Definitely out of my comfort zone. I’ll have to think about that.
May 17th, 2016 at 1:16 pm
Great post vlog post! I look forward to getting to know you and your writings. I admire you taking on the new challenge!
May 26th, 2016 at 2:18 pm
I enjoyed your vlog, Kate. I think your accent is awesome and cute, and you have a great sense if humor. I will definitely watch more. It is hard to connect and interact with others as a writer so this is a great idea. I am nervous to do it because of my accent. Was that a concern of yours too?