What Monarchs can Teach us

For most translators, working from home is nothing new. For interpreters, however, moving to remote interpreting (what you call it differs, RSI, video interpreting, distance interpreting ... to name just a few terms) can be a steep learning curve. Someone who is used to working in a booth with audio technicians standing by at all times has to learn how to manage the technical aspects of interpreting remotely. And there are many aspects to consider: Internet bandwidth, how much computing power you have, what kind of headset and microphone you are using, and whether you need additional software or apps. Another important factor is location ... are you lucky enough to have your own office or have you set up shop on the kitchen table? Are you in a quiet location or one with lots of background noise? Might children or pets get in your way while you are interpreting? It's definitely a challenge ... but linguists are innovative and used to learning new things constantly. Remote interpreting offers many new opportunities and the technology is developing quickly. Most professionals are now familiar with Zoom meetings, but there are even more sophisticated systems geared towards multilingual events. Platforms such as Interprefy and KUDO offer interpreters a working environment that mimics the interpreting booth and includes technical support in every phase of the job. Now all we need is a hologram of our favorite booth partner that is able to tap us on the shoulder when it's time for the handover! Happy Interpreting!  

I had an opportunity to see where these amazing creatures overwinter in Mexico and was in awe at their beauty, overwhelming numbers, and graceful flight. As a Westerner and interpreter, I am sometimes uncomfortable with silence, but in the presence of thousands of monarch butterflies, our entire group sat in silence and awe. A little shout-out at this point to the JM Butterfly B&B in Macheros, Mexico ... it's a small slice of paradise with all the creature-comforts you need. Ellen and Joel make you feel instantly welcome and if you are lucky enough to participate in a cooking class with Joel's Mom, you'll feel like you're part of the family! Even if your Spanish is spotty, like mine!  

A colleague and fellow francophone recommended "Témoins", a French series. I just finished the second series and was struck by the relevancy, not so much in content, but more so in its depiction of strong female characters. Hollywood, have a look at this!