I don’t usually post on Saturdays anymore. In fact, I try to unplug for most of the weekend (confession: failing miserably at that today).
The thing is, BlissDom is – as my kids would say – just four night-night sleeps away. I cannot think about much else. My every thought is about what I need to do before I leave, what I need to pack, who I can’t wait to meet (that would be everyone – going to be a very busy three days of meeting everyone), what sessions I’ll attend, and more.
Over the last couple weeks I’ve read some fantastic BlissDom-related posts about gearing up for the conference. I have absolutely nothing to add regarding logistical conference prep. I’m a novice. (If you’re looking for specifics, though, go here or here.)
As for the emotional preparations, a recurring theme in the posts I’m reading is the What If? Worries.
What if the kids get sick or hurt while I’m gone?
What if I can’t get everything organized before getting on the plane?
What if I don’t know anyone else at the conference?
What if I pack all the wrong clothes?
What if I don’t make any connections while I’m there?
I’m no different. All of these thoughts have run through my mind at some point. If I had to pick my top two worries, they would be:
1. Concern about leaving my kids.
2. Not making any connections at the conference.
Let’s discuss.
As for leaving my kids, I know – in that minuscule, rational part of my brain – that my boys will be completely fine while I’m gone. My husband is a rock star dad, and the kids will barely notice my absence. I know that everyone will be fed, clothed and loved while I’m away.
I also know that nothing will be picked up or cleaned until about one hour before I’m due to walk in the door. But that is okay. What I can’t see won’t hurt me.
So I should be able to cross this off my list of worries. A mother always worries, of course. And even though I’m giddy about some time away, I know I will fiercely miss my little dudes. All the same, I will do everything in my power to keep those knot-in-the-stomach fears at bay.
Now for the meeting, greeting, and connecting at the conference. I am not skilled at this stuff.
I’ve never polled my friends, but I suspect they would all say it takes time to get to know me. And a bit more time after that to learn to love me. I have a feeling that I come off either:
A) Overly familiar because I’m trying desperately to squash my social awkwardness by adopting a severe case of verbal diarrhea; or
B) Stand-offish, because I’m shy and nervous and afraid I’ll say something really ridiculous.
The gist of it is, I’m not great at the talking.
Don’t get me wrong, I do like to talk. I have things to say. But somewhere between my brain and my mouth, bad things happen. The words get garbled. They come out too loud or too soft. My tongue grows three sizes too large and my salivary glands go into overdrive.
It’s not pretty.
So just know this: if you meet me at BlissDom, I am genuinely thrilled to meet you. And I want to be your very best friend. Wait, there’s that overly familiar thing. But I do want to get to know you, and I really want to chat. Really. Just be patient with me. Eventually I’ll relax and stop acting like such a weirdo.
I wonder…
:: What’s your biggest concern when you go to a work function or a blog conference?
:: Are you ever socially awkward? Or…
:: Are you a whiz at the mix-and-mingle? If so, help me!
Lapsed homemaker. Looking to hire a full-time housekeeper who will work for the sheer joy of a job well done and free coffee. Interested parties, DM please. 
Oh goodness. You didn’t seem to have any trouble at BBC. You’ll do great.
I’m so insanely jealous that nearly all of my good bloggy friends are going to be together this week. Sigh.
Missy,
Thanks for the comment on Motherly Law. As you know from my post, I have the same thoughts about Blissdom and leaving, in general!
I do so want to make connections at Blissdom, something that didn’t happen at BlogHer that I am worried I will come off too eager or snobby too! Let’s make sure to meet! See you next week!
Anna from Motherly Law
Ladies — Do not worry! The women at Blissdom were so warm and welcoming. I did not know what to expect last year. I am a law professor and most of the conferences I’ve attended in the past decade were nothing like Blissdom. However, I was very impressed with the organization, the venue, and the attendees. While I did not share everything in common with all of the ladies (who would?), I could relate to almost everyone. People kept coming up and saying hi, swapping cards, etc. I have heard that BlogHer is NOT like that, but Blissdom totally is. I hope to meet you this week! -Hollee
I can present in front of crowds or star in a play, but when it comes to being ME in a social setting, I get nervous and self-conscious. My plan is to ask questions – people like talking about themselves, so I ask about them.
Enjoy the conference! I’m not even to that stage yet. Still a newbie 🙂
You’ll do great.
My biggest concern? Honestly, that I’ll disappoint.
There, I said it.
HAVE A GOOD TIME!!! Cannot wait to hear about it.
Going to BlogHer last year was one of the scariest things I’ve ever done. And there was a great deal of social awkwardness. In fact, Friday found me curled in the fetal position on my bed by 4 p.m. But it was also a lot of fun. Enjoy it!
You were really brave to put this out there!
I am very exuberant and intense by nature, and my big concern is being overbearing. Just so you know. 🙂
I share your same concerns about leaving my four kids, and very many other parents at the conference share that same concern even if just in the back of their minds.
I am confident that you will make connections. I really love Blissdom and found very few people intimidating. I also didnt notice cliques. But my experience and perspective might be a lot different from someone elses.
I cant wait to meet you 🙂
*HUG* 🙂
You’ll be great! You were the picture of confidence at ABGNO.
I am totally socially awkward. I think I talk way too much to mask the fact that I am terrified and really a shy person. I employ the “fake it till you make it” technique and try to act all confident and outgoing when I really just want to dive under the table. Then I leave thinking I said too much (especialy about myself or my kids), talked too loud, didn’t make enough eye contact…the list goes on and on.
Oh, you and I would get along just fine! I suffer from the same worries when I’m away, and the same dual-personality disorder. I’m either your best friend with that verbal spewing or I’m quiet.
Can’t wait to hear all about it! You guys will have an awesome time, and I will feel the exact same way when BlogHer comes along. If I don’t sell my ticket out of panic first.
Wanna know a secret?
I’m an introvert.
Know who knows that?
NO ONE.
Ask Nichole or Cheryl or Sherri or Amy if I am introverted.
They will all tell you NO.
And yet, I am. I’m just really good at pretending I’m not.
It only takes some practice, and commitment. And clearly, your desire to be there, be present, participate and contribute are powerful forces.
You will be amazing.
As, it seems, you have been in the past – if others are to be believed.
Plus, you’re a lady of the court. You get a free pass on attitude now. 😉
Hey now! You take down point 3, cuz you DO know people there!
Things will be fine Missy at home and I know you will rock the conference. Can’t wait to hear about it. Enjoy!