After days of stressing over BlogHer17, we finally packed up the Caddy and headed up to O-town! Thanks to the Almighty for smooth highways, no traffic or major delays. We arrived at the hotel at 3:30 p.m. giving me exactly one hour to check in, change and head across the street to the Hilton. The night before I prayed that we got to stay in the tower right across from the Hilton and guess what…… prayer works. Thank you Universe! Our tower was literally right across from the crosswalk to the Hilton. I was so exhausted and ready to get this show on the road that I didn’t stress over my Thursday night outfit. Or any of my outfits. (See below)
The registration lines were so long that they allowed us to just go in for the opening keynote speaker! I nervously sat at a table towards the front of the stage with 9 other strangers. It was a bit awkward at first but after browsing around the room I recognized quite a few Miamians. I felt so relieved. The vibe in the room was something magical. Over 2000 bloggers (mostly women) in one room talking about changing the world.
I must admit that when I first thought about BlogHer I thought it would just be about making money from your blog or how to gain more followers. Boy was I wrong. The focus of most of the keynote speakers was how we can use our voice to change the world. To start a movement. To make a difference. When you acknowledge the power of your gifts, ideas and passion, you can really change someone’s world.
I was so glad that I took that leap and went. I am thankful to my wonderful husband that took all three kids to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom while I got my BlogHer on. I am thankful for all of the beautiful people that I met at the bar, the bathroom, waiting in line for lunch, and waiting in line for speed dating. It was truly a life changing weekend for me. So if you are blogging and wondering why, or is anyone really reading your posts, know that they are and your story can change someone’s life.
XO,
Sharonda