I shook like a leaf the whole time and had to choke by tears when I admitted I feared my mother’s disapproval of my mothering. I spoke for nearly 10 minutes and relied almost exclusively on my notes.

But, I did it. I put myself out there.

I brought my dream board (though I basically hid it behind me and refused to allow anyone to get too close – which is a little better than behind the dresser where I keep usually keep it when people come over, so no one will know quite how ambitious I am).

I never want to do …read more

This is what stage fright looks like.

This is what it looks like when you have stage fright, but you do it anyway.

Even I can’t figure out why I have stage fright. It’s inexplicably bizarre. I am great in a crowd, I’m an engaging conversationalist in a group, I have something to say here every single day and I have no problem raising my hand or volunteering in a classroom setting.

What is my problem with preparing something and speaking in public?

I’m giving my first Toastmasters speech tonight. I’m blanking out and have nothing prepared, and I have butterflies in my stomach …read more