In blogging years, I have known this week’s featured blogger forever. Please welcome Erin of Erin Margolin: The Road to My Writer Roots.
First of all, I’d like to thank Shell for the honor and privilege of posting here. Even though many of you don’t “see” me around these days, I want you to know I’m lurking everywhere but my time is not my own lately (read: kindergarteners x 2, new baby, PPD/PPA and recovery from the delivery). I’ve always loved Shell’s PYHO prompt and concept but haven’t linked up in a very long time. Which is unfortunate, because it was always very cathartic for me.
So today? I’m going to Pour My Heart Out about Blissdom ’12.
I bought my conference ticket the day they went on sale. Then I booked my room and plane tickets. Everything is printed out and in a folder sitting in my Blissdom ’11 tote, along with my new business cards (that I’ll be nervous to hand out because it seems like a farce), new notebook, and new pens. I’m determined not to overpack again this year, and hopefully fit everything into a carry-on bag. I filled out the conference questionnaire and selected all the writing sessions. I’m pretty set.
But I’m terrified. I loved Blissdom last year and am thrilled to go again (thanks to my husband and his wonderful stepmom for taking care of our kids so I can have this “me time”). Yet there’s this annoying catch in the back of my throat. Which is bothersome because I’m not a newbie. I know the drill (basically). So why am I even MORE nervous this time around?
*because I feel like there’s more at stake. I came home from Blissdom last year with a BANG and really made some big moves on my blog. I moved from Blogger over to WordPress. New design, new brand, new avatar, fancy business cards, and big promises to myself.
*because I vowed that my blog would become more “me” and less bullshit. Quality, not quantity of posts. Digging deeper. Only posting when I truly had something valuable to say. Writing more meaningfully. I’m not sure I’ve followed through with that. I just reread a post I wrote while I was actually at Blissdom last year, and it made me cry…because not only does it show the kind of writing I need and want to do more of, but it also shows how vulnerable and open it made me ON THE VERY FIRST DAY of the conference, during the Wisdom Workshops. You can read the post here, at my old blog (which I still haven’t taken down)
*because I came home from Blissdom and feel into a deep depression. I don’t need to go into all the gory details here, but it was difficult. Around the same time, I started waking up at 5:30 a.m. every weekday to write before the twins woke up, along with two fabulous writers, Nancy/ @OccasionalNinja and Ashlei/ @AshatShades. We’d check in with one another on Twitter and write for an hour or so before the day began. It was so helpful for me. I felt I was finally making some progress, some forward movement with my writing.
*because I realized one day in March how late my period was. Things started making sense: how tired I was, the depression, not feeling like myself, mood swings. I took a pregnancy test and it was positive. Most of you know that Piper, our miracle baby, was born on October 21, 2011. I was at Blissdom in January, possibly just barely pregnant then but we’ll ultimately never know the date of conception. I became pregnant not only when we thought we were done having children, but at a time when I felt I was making headway, big moves.
*because becoming a mother to a third child was supposed to be easy after having had twins. But it’s not. It’s harder. I don’t have time for writing and blogging like I used to. I’m fighting Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Anxiety. I’m battling the physical recovery from a very rough vaginal delivery. I’m dealing with two kindergarten drama queens plus Piper. Writing takes a backseat to all of this. I haven’t done much real writing lately. And despite everything, I still have trouble calling myself a writer.
*So here I sit, a year+ after Blissdom ’11, feeling like a newbie all over again. Like I don’t belong there, like the new kid at school, worried no one likes me, scared shitless I won’t have anyone to talk to. Feeling like I shouldn’t be leaving my family and our new baby at home to go to a writing/blogging conference.
*I am nervous because you might see me hiding in a corner and assume I’m a bitch when really I’m super shy and have trouble walking up to people and starting a conversation. I’m nervous because I’m “just a SAHM” who wants to make out with the #WriterTribe and pretend to be a card-carrying member. I’m nervous because I desperately want you to like me. I just want to learn all I can, make new friends & connect with old ones, and try to regain some balance—both for myself personally and for my blog.
Are YOU nervous about Blissdom (or another conference you’re attending)? And if you are going to Blissdom and you see me trying to blend in with the wall, I promise I’m not a hag. Just having a private panic attack.
Leave Erin some comment love here and then go follow her blog. You can also find her on twitter and facebook.
Erin, you are a MARVELOUS writer, and don’t you forget that for a second.
As for blog conference apprehension, I think the many women who are going will also feel the same and there will be lovelies like Shell there to help you through. You’ll be great!!
Alison@Mama Wants This recently posted..Foodie Friday: Chocolate Candy Bar Brownies
Alison,
Thank you so much. I appreciate your kind words. I think once I actually GET there I will feel more at ease…
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Ok first of all you are aware that I LOVE you and YOU are so much braver then I. Because I have never been to a conference and don’t think I would go because I don’t think I am worthy enough. There I said it. You are far from alone in that feeling. Except you do have the ability to do it and do it well. You go and represent those of us that don’t have the nerve to go ..
Angel recently posted..He would have been with me if it weren’t for the age difference.
Angel,
SHAME ON YOU! Worthy??? WE ARE ALL WORTHY!!! And the first time I went to a conference (in 2010), I didn’t have the nerve to do it. I just forced myself. You should, too!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I too have known Erin in the bloggy world “forever” and love her more and more each day. Well spoken here, girl! With the recent birth of my second child, I struggled and squirmed a bit and only now feel like I’m beginning to come up for air. This has nothing on the issues you are facing, but I do feel it brings me that much closer to empathizing with my beloved WRITER (you can still be a writer, even if you don’t write regularly) friend, Erin. Sending you positive vibes and lots of love
TJ @ ANY Given Moment recently posted..Chocolate Shortbread
TJ,
Thank you for that affirmation/confirmation. I suppose I don’t feel much like a writer anymore/lately because of the baby and because there’s no time to do it, and do it well/properly….as for “coming up for air,” I know that feeling all too well. I think of you all the time and miss you!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I think going to conference makes many people feel this way. I love the honesty in this post.
JDaniel4′s Mom recently posted..Read.Explore.Learn.- red sled Fun
JDaniel4smom,
I don’t know, some people seem soooooo ultra confident. That’s just not me, although I wish it was. Don’t get me wrong, I am sure there will be other nervous people there, but I have a nagging tendency to always feel like the only one….
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
We love you. Don’t worry.
Blond Duck recently posted..Friday Five: Foodie Style
Thank you, Blond Duck! I feel all warm & fuzzy now!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
You won’t be sitting alone in the corner. I won’t let you. Even if it means sitting in that same corner, I promise you won’t be alone.
Natalie recently posted..Motherhood Monday: New Definition of Air Guitar
Awwww, thanks sweet Natalie! But I refuse to drag anyone down with me! You are so bubbly and fun and maybe I can try to be more that way this year….
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
But even with all those fears, you’re still going…and that’s something to be proud of!
I haven’t gone to any partly because I’m a big wimp and too scared….
you can totally rock this!
Not a Perfect Mom recently posted..My Very Own #JuanitaWeasel
Not a Perfect MOm,
That was me before. I’m a big wimp and scared too—even though I’ve been before! So don’t let that stop you, you should GO!!!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin? This raw honesty is what drew me to you in the first place!
I adore you, am so happy to read your heart here today, and hope to one day meet in person and not be too shy to dig deep together!
(Fabulous post!)
xo
Galit Breen recently posted..Less, and More
Galit,
How I wish you were coming to Blissdom! What is the next conference YOU are going to? xoxo Thanks for coming over here to read. I’m sorry I haven’t been by lately. I’m just starting ot come up for air, like another commenter said.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin,
Just wanted to say I love the true grit in your writing. I am a newbie and although I am not yet attending any conferences, I am nervous daily, about writing, posting, & sharing my writing. I don’t sugar coat a lot I am an open book. My posts reflect my life as is-like my private journal! Don’t worry I think deep down we are all very similar and we all just want to have a place to share our voice and write from our gut—if only we had more time!
Kate, Yes, time is the problem. Not enough of it. It’s so hard sometimes. I love my kids and my husband and our family, but I really struggle with this. I feel like there’s so much bubbling up inside and I just cannot make the time to do it. Despite there being multiple reasons behind it…
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
It’s great that going into this year’s Blissdom you have a clear idea of your potential blocks. I think identifying our challenges is the first step to overcoming them. Also, your babies will get bigger, there *will* be more time for writing (I say this as I have a 3 year old, 17 month old, and #3 on the way, so I’m right there with you with the no-time-for-anything-me situation). Have a great time, and maybe I’ll see you next year. We can huddle in the corner together.
Rivki Silver recently posted..The Truth About Motherhood
Rivki,
I didn’t realize you have # 3 on the way! You are a busy mom and I admire you! I would LOVE to huddle in the corner next year—I hope you will consider coming, it’s a wonderful conference.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Last night, I dreamed I packed two outfits and no underwear. I also keep freaking out that I booked a flight to the wrong city.
I don’t know if that means I’m nervous…
Dana K recently posted..Top Ten Things I NEVER Want to Do
Dana,
That’s why I am trying to just bring a carry on, b/c my dream is that my luggage gets lost and I have to wear the same outfit the whole time. LOL!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I’m (hopefully) going to a conference later this year. I’m so excited, but also scared out of my mind. Not only have I never been to one, I’ve never traveled out of state without my children before.
Those of us who know you, or any mom for that matter, realize that as much as we want to write/blog, life gets in the way. It’s not a bad thing. It’s just how it is. I know you will have an awesome time at Blissdom. Hopefully it will ignite a fire in you once again. Whether you write deep posts or posts about the typical bullshit, as you call it, you have a way with words. You ARE a writer. xoxo
Evonne recently posted..Shared birthday
Evonne,
Even if it’s not the first time, it’s NEVER easy leaving the kids! I don’t want to do it, either, and I’ve left them a few times before. I hope that you will go to a conference SOON. It really is an amazing and awesome experience!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin, I was battling postpartum anxiety at last year’s BlissDom. I had a few ugly cries there & I just want to say that you will do awesome things in YOUR OWN TIME! Do not feel rushed. Do not feel like you aren’t already a ‘card carrying member’. Just do not. We all love you and support you and won’t let you sit in a corner (unless you REALLY want to!). Loves, hugs & support, friend!!
Kristi @ Creative Kristi recently posted..Friday Freebie | {Imperfections}
Kristi,
I wish I would’ve known! I was battling regular old depression, and still am now, plus the anxiety. I’m hoping I can avoid the ugly cries this year, but…we’ll see. I don’t want to be too hard on myself if I get emotional…
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin, girl, you know I love you. I won’t let you be alone. I’m here for you. And you are a writer… despite what your brain doesn’t want you to believe. It is what makes you, you. It is what heals you. While you might not have time for it all right now – someday you will come back to it and it will be like an old friend holding your hand. (Which, incidentally, could be the same thing you say about me someday.)
I can’t wait to see you, hug you, catch up and just sit in that corner with you.
Julie @DutchBeingMe recently posted..#Mamavation: The power of shame…
Julie,
All I can say is that I love you. And I can’t wait to sit and chat and share pretzel M & M’s (AND SEE YOUR CUTE NEW HAIR!!!)
xoxoxoxoxo
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Oh Erin, I know you have these worries, and I know I can’t really do anything to fix them. But I WILL see you and hug you. WE know you’re a writer, and one day you’ll be able to own it again. Because it’s you. Truly.
(I’ll e-mail you & we’ll make plans to meet? I’m splitting time between writing and a few life development sessions, so we should have crossover
)
angela recently posted..Molting
Angela,
YES! And I’m so glad you emailed me. I’m going to send you my #s. I’m glad I will see you in some of the writing sessions, and I may also go to one of the life development ones.
xoxo
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I wish wish wish I was going to Blissdom or any blogger’s conference this year. (Not happening. But I do get to Killer Nashville every year). I’m so looking forward to next year, when I will be able to do at least one blogging conference! I’m loving all this prep a year out, though. Because I get monster nerves, too!!!
Jessie Powell recently posted..Surfing
Jessie,
I hope you will go next year! It’s such an amazing time and tons of fun. So many things to learn and do and experience! Thanks for coming by to read!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Blissdom is not for me, just not into blogging that much (i really love reading blogs more).
Yet, I can relate to you on so many things you wrote here. 1st off, I think the third child is the hardest to add to the family. I do not have twins, I do have 4 children though. Our third was the hardest to add to the family. I promise it all falls together, eventually.
Secondly “ how tired I was, the depression, not feeling like myself, mood swings” is still fresh in my mind even though it started a bit over 5 years ago. We too thought we were doing having children (even took precautions). Then it hit me, missed period, pregnancy test… our fourth born was on his way. My depression even consumed me for a while during pregnancy. Dark days.
I had rough recoveries after #3 and #4. #3 took almost 7 months before I was as close to normal as I was ever going to be.
Hope things improve for you, and maybe Blissdom is just the break you need from all the emotions.
Oka recently posted..PMM ~ Couldn’t be prouder
Thank you, Oka!
I’m dealing with a rough recovery, too. I should’ve gone w/ my gut and had an elective c-section. and i’d be feeling soooo much better by now. I’m planning to have my tubes tied later this year, at the same time as i get my hernias repaired. Haven’t scheduled yet, but….i can’t have a 4th. i can barely deal now. i don’t know how you do it. dark days, indeed.
thank you.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
BIG DEEP BREATHS.
Be who you are…and it’ll come through, to those who will see it.
The grown up thing to say, and yet it still hurts is this: not everyone will like you. You won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Some will just not be into you.
Realize that, and move on.
BlogHer had me like a deer in headlights, and I realized: bloggers are no different than people in real life. I made these people without fault, in my head; something above the rest of society: they’re not. THey’re just people, and people aren’t perfect.
Be who you are, Erin, take a step out of expectations and see that it’s YOUR life. People who love you will love you.
Be honest and see that you/me don’t like everyone all the time, either.
Take that same attitude with yourself: put it in your head that just as you don’t get some people, some won’t get you.
As my grandmother used to say: better in the good company of 1, then the bad company of many.
You will be with those that get you.
You have been blogging from the heart. I’ve seen it.
You have posted of things that matter. I’ve read them.
You have made HUGe changes. Look at the last 3 months of posts on your site.
And, right now, you are in a season of new motherhood.
A season in life: because it’s not permanent.
When we’re in the thick of it, we think it’ll never change: it will. NEVER GIVE UP, Erin.
NEVER give up your dreams.
Alexandra recently posted..The One Thing
Alexandra,
your comments always make the tears come. Especially this one, now, tonight–as I read it. I think I will print it out and bring it with me to Nashville. Thank you also for your DM’s…
xoxoxoxox
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I cannot wait to meet you and give you a hug! That you wrote about this sensitive subject makes me love ya even more…this is why people read you. This is why your such a respected blogger. xoxo
Natalie recently posted..So You Wanna Make Money Blogging? How To Get Sponsored Posts
Natalie,
I can’t wait to meet you, either—and I love hugs!
SEE YOU THURSDAY!!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I really admire your honesty about your feelings. I haven’t been to your blog before (but will head there shortly) but your search to dig deeper also rings true with me. I believe Christopher Robin said it best “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
NJ @ A Pocket Full Of Dinosaurs recently posted..Sibling Angst.
NJ,
Thank you so very much for coming by to read—and I love that Christopher Robin quote. I really hope this Blissdom gets me going again. To the deeper places.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
You belong there, Erin. Your writing is amazing, and the fact that life has been kicking your butt lately, and you haven’t been able to actually write as much doesn’t change that. It is still there inside of you – the words, the beauty, the courage, the intensity, the strength.
I’m still sad that I won’t be making it this year…..but maybe next year – at some point we have to meet in person. xoxo
Tracie recently posted..How (NOT) To Bowl
Tracie,
I’m disappointed too that you can’t be there. You know I’d love to meet you in person. SOONER rather than later.
Thanks for the reminders in your comments. I forget easily…. xoxo
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin, I have so much respect for you as a writer, a blogger and a human being. I’ve been harboring a bloggy crush on you for ages now, honestly. You are a writer, and a good one. You’re not a fraud.
I have to believe that you will one day see the bigger picture which is only forming now. The detours from where you “thought” you were headed are going to lead you to a much bigger, better place from which you’ll be able to look down on where you thought you wanted to be. And you’ll smile. And then you’ll go to your next book signing engagement. ;)
I really, truly, with all my heart hope I find you at Blissdom so I can at least give you a big hug.
Mrs. Jen B recently posted..Wellness Wednesday: Candy and Consciousness
Thank you, sweet Jen! Of course we will find each other at Blissdom—hard to miss shy girl crying in the corner….or stuffing her face at breakfast. LOL!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Thank you for this post, Erin. I’ll be at Blissdom as a real newbie. I am VERY nervous because of the nervous breakdown I had at BlogHer last year. If I see you sitting in a corner I will probably come sit there with you, okay?
I’m nervous as hell. I just want it to be a success for me. I have my own agenda and I want to stick to that.
I hope you get your groove back after attending again!
molly recently posted..Building on Brotherly Love
Molly,
I can’t imagine going to BlogHer…I’d be too overwhelmed. Size-wise Blissdom is much much smaller and more intimate. Was that part of why you had such a hard time? And YES, please come sit with me in the corner!!!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin…Things I can’t say…I can’t say in how many words how much you rock on so many levels and how much I admire you and how brave you are and how lucky I am to have you in my life in my corner on my side and on my team. I can’t say how much I love you. Why I can’t say them….because there are not enough words in the universe to describe these feelings that I have for you.
Lee recently posted..I Vent About My Ex Online, You Can Too
Lee,
I can’t say how much I love you, either. I will call you tomorrow—the kids are out of school and I think I might lose my mind. xoxoxoox
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I’m not going to Blissdom and not suddenly wish I was! I hope it is everything you need it to be. I’ve gone to Blissdom in Canada and find it to be the most welcoming of conferences. Hugs to you, I’m sure you will rock it!
SassyModernMom recently posted..Do You Believe In Miracles? Introducing MiracleMoms!
SassyModernMom,
Thanks so much! I bet Blissdom in Canada was just as wonderful! It was very welcoming and I’m sure it will be again this year. I can’t wait and can’t believe the time is nearly here!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I understand, but you will be great at the conference. Good luck!
Leigh,
Thanks! I need it!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Oh Erin, everything you’ve shared here are the reasons why I’m scared to go to a conference myself. I’m in awe of your strength….to go, even though you have all the same concerns I do. I’m too nervous to step out of my comfort zone and just do it.
I have a feeling you will be a hit at the conference! What’s not to love about you????!!! You are amazing!
Helene recently posted..Bread machine fail #6
Helene,
I’ve been scared, too. And the first time I bought my first ticket? I literally sat at the computer screen sweating, swearing, and shaking…and then made myself hit the “purchase” button. I had to make myself…and even though this is my 2nd Blissdom, I’m still anxious. But I think you should try one out—YOU would be amazing and get so much out of it!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I was very nervous about going to BlogHer last year but for Blissdom I’m not that nervous even though it will be my first Blissdom. I think it’s different this time because most of my really close online friends will be there and I’m so excited to meet them all. I am worried though about coming home feeling deflated about blogging like I did from BlogHer. Hopefully that doesn’t happen because it took me a long time to get over it.
Jess recently posted..Most Likely To #Blissdom Edition
Jess,
Wow. Maybe you came home deflated because BlogHer is such a large conference? Blissdom is smaller and more intimate. Which is what I loved about it last year. I’m glad you’re not that nervous and I hope I get to meet you!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Aw, Erin, we love you. I just found you today, and I love you already. I wish I could come to Blissdom and meet you and give you a hug, but I won’t be there this year. But you absolutely deserve to go with the best of them. And if you start to feel shy and lonely when you’re there, just remember “No one puts Erin in a corner!”
Jocelyn | ScooterMarie recently posted..Memories Captured – February Edition
Jocelyn, Aren’t you the sweetest! Thank you so much. I’m so grateful you stopped by to read and comment!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin thanks so much for sharing your heart. I won’t be attending the conference, but I totally related to some of the things you were saying – especially the SAHM part and wanting to be part of the writers club but not knowing where you fit in. I hope that you are pleasantly surprised at the conference and get the writing refreshment you need
.
Christine Trevino recently posted..Momma Dreamer Manifesto
Thank you, Christine! That means a lot to me. The SAHM part is a big deal to me. I love it, don’t get me wrong, but I think I don’t value myself and what I do enough. And it’s hard when your other dreams take a backseat…but I know they all won’t be little forever.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I love this honest, heartfelt post of yours. And to answer your question, I’m not going to Blissdom. My first conference is in June and I have moments where I don’t think I can do it too! Because I’m afraid everyone will meet me and think I’m “meh.” I have a feeling we all feel this way.
But you? No “meh” there. You are the real deal Erin. So have fun and tell us all about it when y ou return.
Missy | Literal Mom recently posted..How to Be a Zen Mama Book – #giveaway
Okay, Missy—so where’s my guest post? Are you gonna post for me? You are NOT “meh.” Shut it. And you’re probably right that a lot of us feel this way. Which stinks. We need a support group.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Oh hon, it’s going to be great, just like it was last year. Enjoy the good sleep you’re going to get at the hotel and your fellow bloggers/writers. WISH so hard I could be there with you. xo
Elaine recently posted..We love each other every day…
Elaine,
I wish so hard you were going to be there, too….waaaaaahhhhhhh!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I bet when you actually get there again everything will feel okay. Conferences are meant to get us charged up and all geared to go and there always is that crash afterwards. And it sounds like you have been taking care of you and your family which is what truly matters anyway, so you have nothing to be ashamed of.
Emmy recently posted..Fancy Family Valentines Dinner
Emmy, Thank you so much. I am sure you’re right. Once I get there and get settled I’ll hopefully be able to relax a bit…
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Every post that I read of yours has such incredible honesty. I love reading your writing, so keep at it. I went to BlogHer in August and came home with Big Plans, Ideas and All Things Ambitious Writer. Frankly, my life just doesn’t allow for me to do a lot of what I’d like to do with my writing now, as much as I want – and need – it as an outlet. Do what you can, and don’t beat yourself up for the rest of it. Take the best of Blissdom, find some good company and enjoy the community. I hope the conference recharges you – and I don’t mean your blog. You. The rest of it will be there when you want it to be.
ChiMomWriter recently posted..Fever Can Be Your Friend!
ChiMomWriter,
Amen! You just said what I feel…about the Big Plans, Ideas, and All Things Ambitious Writer. I hope you’re right about the rest of it being there when I want it. Sigh. I’m not patient and I’m worried I won’t learn to ride that bike again…
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I bet, albeit maybe under different circumstances, a lot of “second timers” are feeling the same way. I hope your fears prove unfounded!
Have a wonderful time!
Sorta Southern Single Mom recently posted..Friday Fragments: + Graphics!
Sorta Southern Mom, I hope so, too. Thank you so much for stopping by to say hi, and have a wonderful day!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
You will be amazing Erin.
stephanie @ babe’s rockin’ mami recently posted..Nutrisystem Week Four
Stephanie,
You are a doll. Thank you!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I hope you have a great time. I imagine your feelings are pretty mutual with other people attending the conference. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me.
Emily recently posted..SUMMER camp
Emily,
Thanks so much for stopping by to read!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I love how honest and real this post is. I met Erin last year at Blissdom and she is fantastic.
Kim recently posted..SHOOT.EDIT.SUBMIT. 02.17.12.
Thank you, Kim. I’m guessing you’ll mostly be in photography sessions??
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Wow Erin. I can really relate to the anxiety of this post. The only blogging conference I have ever been to is one Blogging Boot Camp (which was fabulous). I keep thinking of going to another one, but it just sounds so overwhelming.
Shell, thanks again for introducing me to a another great blogger. I just got back from visiting her site and subscribed. I look forward to keeping up with Erins blog now too!
Kate F. @katefineske recently posted..Love is Grand?
Kate F,
Thank you so very much for taking the time to read and comment…I have heard BBC is fantastic, but have never been. It can be a little overwhelming at first, but when I think of really overwhelming, I think of BlogHer, which I would love to go to, but it’s too daunting, too big…too scary.
Maybe I”ll see you at Blissdom next year?!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I love you, Erin and now wish I was going to Blissdom again so I could hug your sweet self. xoxo
tracy@sellabitmum recently posted..How to Buy Nice Clothing for Kids on a Budget…
THank you, Tracy! I wish you would be there, too…sad face.
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I would be nervous about going to a conference for several reasons…anxiety around people, social pressure, etc. etc. I also have a difficult time leaving my kids for anything that is just for me. I hope you enjoy the conference!
Also: What’s the advantage to switching to WordPress from Blogger?
Teresa (Embracing the Spectrum) recently posted..When you don’t know. {PYHO}
Teresa,
I just love WordPress. So easy, so user friendly. I always had so many issues with Blogger.
I have a lot of anxiety issues, too. Leaving my kids is never easy, but I make myself do it every so often because it’s good for me AND for them—they need to learn that other people can care for them, too (as do I!). Thanks for reading!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
This is exactly how I would feel if I were going to Blissdom.
Or any conference, really.
Which is why along with the sadness of not attending, I am also greatly relieved.
I will miss not getting to meet all you wonderful people face to face.
But I’ll be home in the safety of my own house.
I won’t have to be nervous.
But I won’t be challenging myself. At all.
So. Just for signing up, you are already brave.
And you are already loved.
For exactly who you are.
julie gardner recently posted..Today call me unromantic
Julie, GET YOUR ASS TO A CONFERENCE. NO EXCUSES! xoxoxox
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
i couldn’t say it any better than any of the above responses…i TRIED, honestly!!!! this is a “conference”, “…consulting together formally…interchange of views…”; this is NOT a meeting to challenge the validity of you being there!!!!!! you BELONG there….you ARE a writer, and i will keep saying that to you until i can’t speak anymore….
GO, and ENJOY IT!
Thank you! xoxo
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I love Erin! Her writing never fails!
Erin, so sorry you’re struggling. Give yourself time. Life has a way of getting in the way of life! I have never been to a conference, but would like to attend one in the future. Aside from the financial aspect, time away from kids, and normal things that hold me back, I think the biggest reason is fear. Fear that I’m just an amateur blogger and don’t belong at a blog conference. Or actually telling people IRL that I’m going to a blog conference. “A what?”
I bet once you get there you’ll feel better. Others HAVE to have the same fears. I think it’s awesome you’re going even though you’re fearful!
Adrienne recently posted.."Fishers of Men" Bible Craft
Adrienne,
I have all those same thoughts. And fears. Believe me, leaving the kids isn’t easy. And mine have come down w/ a cold right now to top it all off. Great timing. I just hope I don’t get it…cross your fingers for me?!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Erin–I’m looking forward to meeting you at Blissdom! I will be a newbie, and I promise you, I’ll be far more scared than you are. But I bet we’ll both have a wonderful time and do great.
Natalie @MamaTrack recently posted..Fifteen Minutes Until Pickup
Natalie,
I don’t see how anyone could be more terrified than I! But let’s find each other and hang out! You are going to LOVE IT!! See you soon!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
I’m heading to Blissdom this week too and I admit that I am far beyond nervous. I have no idea what I’m getting into and I am incredibly shy. So, if I see you sitting in the corner can I come join you?
Kimberly recently posted..Here, There, and Everywhere
Kimberly,
You are going to LOVE Blissdom!! And of course you can join me in the corner!
Get excited, girlie, it’s going to be fantastic!
Erin Margolin recently posted..Things I Can’t Say
Thanks, Erin. While I know I am meant to be there, I am worried about every little thing. It is good to hear someone else knows their self-talk is crap, but can seem to make it stop. I, too, tend to back up to the wall when nervous…might cry.
Maggie,
So did you? Cry? I did, a few times. But I’m happy to say I was never really alone when I did it. I still had to deal with my negative self-talk, but…I had friends to talk some sense into me. How about you?
erin margolin recently posted..My Inner Women
Yes. I did. First thing. Then I got up and found some people who had shouted out on fb and went to dinner. You and I were in a couple of sessions together. Perhaps, perhaps we can meet next year. My negative self talk continued, but I watched others and could tell they were dealing with it too.
Maggie S. recently posted..A (nother) Break In the Action
HUGS. You are fighting you are making progress and you are an amazing writing. I know how it can feel to be in the middle of ppd/ppa and have these massive things come at you. You have the #PPDChat army behind you. Go and try to enjoy–as much as possible.
Thank you, Jess. I met some of the PPD/PPA people at Blissdom, including Katherine Stone, and she was so gracious and wonderful. I’m lucky to have you guys in my corner! Thank you also for reading and commenting!
Ok first of all, if I were there I would totally come up and give you a big hug. (I’ll be at BlogHer though).
Second of all, I KNOW I sound trite when I say this, but you’re not supposed to accomplish anything at all during this time period. When my youngest was under the age of 2, I had ridiculous expectations, but it’s only now that he’s 3 and in school that I can see more clearly.
Big hugs.
Lady Jennie recently posted..Peanut Butter (Sugar-Free) Teff Cookies
Jennie,
I admire you for going to BlogHer. I can’t. It’s just too huge and intimidating for me. I know it’s supposed to be “THE” place to be, but…omg, it scares the crap out of me, just the mere idea of it. Which sucks because I’d so love to meet you IRL!
erin margolin recently posted..My Inner Women
I’m so glad you’re going to Blissdom – I would love to go! But I also would be in the corner – not the one in the middle of room talking to everyone! The great thing is that you will have people there you know from last year, and people you’ve talked to on line to chat with – and that always makes it easier! I can’t wait to see what you come away with this year!
Shelly recently posted..Declaration
Shelly,
Amazingly, I was never in the corner. I did cry, however. A few times. But it was all good. I hope you can go—maybe next year????
erin margolin recently posted..My Inner Women