Testimony over

So today was the day.  I testified this morning in front of the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Water and Power.  Talk about a nerve wracking experience!  I was seated at a table with three other witnesses and in front of us (on a raised platform) were 10 Congressmen (and women).  We each had 5 minutes to present our testimony and the time was kept by a little countdown timer on our table.  The timer had little green, yellow and red lights to show you when your time was running out.  The gallery was packed, standing room only.

My turn came and the five minutes went so quickly.  I barely remember what I said.  I had prepared a written testimony, but an attorney here told me it would be better if I didn't just read what I wrote.  He said I should try and keep eye contact and talk from my heart.  I did follow along with the general outline of what I wrote, but I worked in some other material.  It was really tough to present the information in a calm and controlled manner, but I did my best.  I am not a big public speaker. . . hell I am just a farmer and I have never been in a situation like that.  Looking back, I probably could have done a little better (that's the competitive side of myself), but I did try my hardest. 

I am going to post my testimony and an summary of my views on the Restoration of the San Joaquin River, but I don't have the time tonight. 

It was weird how I wasn't nervous until the timer came on and suddenly it hit me.  All in all an interesting experience.  I had a lot of family and others listening on C-SPAN and they said I did a good job . . . I guess they would say that no matter what.  I still feel I could have done a bit better, but just getting through it was hard enough.  It was an experience I will never forget.