All Over...

...but the memories, and I'm feeling a little sad. I've been looking forward to BlogHer '12 since this time last year. I signed up in the winter to become a volunteer -- I like to be part of events -- and that really increased my anticipation. Once I was diagnosed in May I realized I wouldn't be going away this summer and BlogHer became my goal for recovery. I wanted to be well enough and mobile enough to enjoy it and I was going to push myself as much as I could in physical therapy to do that. I've been fortunate that the p.t. has gone well and I could participate. I did skip the parties -- too much standing -- but enjoyed the sessions, the exhibits and meeting people. I loved meeting people! 

There was the Lorax and my buddies, the Smith Brothers and the Sun and sweet, sweet Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman. What fun to meet her and she was as nice as I expected. I was especially delighted with how friendly and down-to-earth she was. That really impressed me. But there were lots of people who weren't famous, but who made the weekend for me. I got to meet my my blog buddy, who was even funnier, warmer and smarter in person than her blog. What a honey! I spent time at the registration desk with two delightful bloggers, Laundry for Six and Girl with Blog. There were five thousand (Yes, that's right!) people at the conference and I might not have met these two interesting, funny women. What fun to spend time with them. 

Perhaps the one thing I like best about blogging is getting to meet people I ordinarily don't get to meet, people whose lives are very different from mine. This was especially true on Saturday morning. My blog buddy and I met for breakfast on Saturday. The breakfast theme was "Birds of a Feather," and some of the tables had signs for different blog interests. We were looking for the "Boomer" table, but the ballroom is huge and after walking the equivalent of a block we just picked a table. We made a lucky pick. There were no boomers at the table, but some bright, very lively women. The creator of Her Zimbabwe joined us. What an extraordinary young woman and what a blog. This is one blog that I will definitely be following. I am in awe of all that she has created. 

Lastly, what a treat to spend time with people who make BlogHer work. Thanks Tonia, Amelia and Lori. It was great working with all of you and I look forward to more adventures to come. Here's to BlogHer '13. Chicago, here I come!