Hi, Kim: I don't think you are weird. 
The one question I always ask myself is "What is the worst that can happen?". When I really think about it the worst that could happen usually isn't that bad....or at least not fatal. Usually the worst is that no one will understand me and I won't understand them. Not a huge problem. If I use paper and pen it's ok. If the conversation isn't crucial (like the cashier at the grocery store after I buy my groceries), I can say "sorry, I don't understand, but thanks", smile, and leave. Not a big deal. If it is a big deal, they will stop me and say that. When I am at a party and meet someone, the worst that could happen is that they don't like me. Again, not a big problem. I didn't know them before the party and my life was fine, so not getting to know them won't make a big difference. If they don't like me it doesn't mean anything because they don't know me. Rejection hurts but it doesn't kill! 
I wasn't always so outgoing. I've always been very social but I wasn't always confident enough to show it. I went to a small, private hearing school when I was a kid, and I had a great interpreter who was a teacher's aid and had a deaf dad. I used her too much because I was afraid to be myself with all the hearing kids. She finally met with me and my parents and said it had to stop. She encouraged me all the time to interact with my classmates. She asked me all the time, "What are you afraid of? You have to try because your happiness is your responsibility". It made a big impact. It is my responsibility.
So I changed. I sometimes feel like a fool, and I have had some conversations go very very wrong. 
But usually the worst doesn't happen and I'm glad I took the chance. I have to say that I am not always outgoing in all situations. I don't like loud, crowded places. I like to go to the same places so I know the people and what is expected (I go to college in the town I grew up in). And sometimes I just avoid eye contact so no one talks to me. :Oops: But usually I try.
You can do it, Kim! 
