I figure I’ll just start this whole thing out by telling you that I’ve got more to say, because though I have now been home about 14 hours, my suitcase is still sitting here fully packed and that’s just the tip of the iceberg, people.
Short version: I loved it. It was (*warning: cliched, over-used phrases ahead*) empowering, inclusive, thought-provoking, lovefest-y, really funny, sometimes disturbing, always interesting. I learned a lot. I’m still processing.
And thankfully, I was able to conduct myself with my usual dignity and grace.
(Don’t believe everything you see on the internet. I can explain.)
http://flickr.com/photos/joyunexpectedcom/2690479292/
Dumbest Things I Have Done (So Far):
1. Wasted way too much time worrying about/fine-tuning BlogHer wardrobe. Guess what– nobody cares! Apparently I thought that other mommybloggers were from a Mythical Place that had totally different shopping than where I live. Like a Magical Store with perfect clothes spun by elves, made out of baby kisses and dreams. Nope. Already saw one of my Kohl’s shirts on another blogger. Looked good, too!
2. Giddily thought the highlight of the day would be the fun! fun! fun! nightly cocktail parties. I’m not alone on this one, elevator talk reveals many other cocktail party defectors. (Tonight’s will be fun though– hello, it’s at Macy’s! Shopping with wine!)
3. Mistakenly identified someone as a blogger I admire, complimented her on her fabulous blog, was a little puzzled at her obviously surprised and deeply touched response… until she gently said, “Um, my blog is really small and brand new, I think you might have me mixed up with someone else.” Yeah. Note to self: Wear your damn reading glasses.
Smartest Things I Have Done (So Far):
1. Regularly retreated to the peace, quiet and solitude of my lovely room during breaks, instead of trying to ‘network’ and pass out my blog cards in the hallways. Taking just a few minutes to be alone has kept me from falling prey to conference burn-out and the dreaded Over-eager Newbie Syndrome.
2. Brought comfortable shoes. While I admire a lovely piece of footwear as much as the next blogger, I have seen so many women walking around with the grim expression of someone who deeply regrets their shoe choices. I know that expression only too well. Two words: ballet flats.
3. For one of the few times in my life, I am listening more than I am talking. I can only imagine your surprise matches mine.
