Travel — 24 October 2011
5 AWESOME Things I Learned at Blogalicious 2011

I had two cameras with me and somehow managed to end up with about two photos from the Blogalicious Weekend Conference. I pulled this pic from marketing guru, Barbara Jones’, twitter stream. She dubbed it, “Circle of Awesomeness.”  That could have been the title for the entire conference and all 300 women – and a few good men – who attended it. It was simply that good. In this shot next to me are Jennifer James, Barbara Jones, Renee Ross and Karen Walrond.

Even though I was slackin’ on the photos, I was paying attention to the speakers and the “awesomeness” that filled the conference. Here are a few of the many lasting impressions that I walked away with:

It’s NEVER too late to reinvent yourself. OK, I already knew that and I’m actually in the process of doing it but when Rene Syler swirls into the room and starts talking she reignites even an already burning fire. Yes, the Good Enough Mother is that good. If you’re not familiar with the former CBS news anchor that is setting up shop in her living room and keeping things really-real, you should be.

You CAN do anything you want to do. My good friends Ronnie and Lamar Tyler from Black and Married with Kids are responsible for this one. Hearing both of them speak about their journey to success; how they had a desire to do something, not much experience, but went for it anyway is so motivating! A few years ago the pair didn’t own a video camera; now 4 successful documentaries later they just shot their first music video for Grammy Award winning artist Speech. Talk about making things happen.

I’m NOT Alone in My Search for Balance. Woosah. Not that I want anyone to feel out of whack or struggle with finding more hours in the day like I often do; BUT, it’s nice to get in a room with successful women and hear how they cope with managing marriage, motherhood, their careers and all the mayhem. The wonderful Jessica Smith and super fabulous Jeannette Kaplun led this panel beautifully.

I’m sitting on a WEALTH of opportunity. Two names: Pam Perry and LaShanda Henry. These women are smart, savvy and were sharing so many of their money-making business tips women were ready to write them a check for the session. Seriously. Go look them up.

GIVING can make a huge difference in someone’s life. OK, I knew this one already, too, but I had a heart-warming reminder at the American Cancer Society’s Cupcake Party on Friday. The incredibly wonderful and strong Susan also known as WhyMommy talked about her journey with cancer as we all lit cupcakes and then sang the happy birthday song.

There were so many other awesome moments at Blogalicious, talented speakers, informative panels, and fun soirees that I couldn’t possible list them all; but I can say that I walked away from the weekend recharged and motivated … and, appreciative of all the awesomeness.

I’m off to run …

Winks & Smiles,

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About Author

Lorraine "Wifey" Robertson is a wife, mother, writer, author, and runner trying to keep things simple, sexy and sane. She recently lost more than 25 pounds and ran her second marathon - the Chicago Marathon.

(22) Readers Comments

  1. Those are a few of the things I’m trying to incorporate into my life. And if you find balance, send her my way when you’re done.

    • Girl! I don’t think she exists. We have to learn to be OK with where we are and what we’re doing; and hang up our capes!

  2. Great post! This was my first Blogalicious conference and it did not disappoint! I learned a lot, met some great people (like you) :–) and had some fun! Who wouldn’t love an event like Blogalicious?!?!

    • It was great meeting you, too! Blogalicious is a favorite of mine; I look forward to it every year. ;)

  3. Sounds like a fun & fulfilling weekend! Sometimes a lack of photos just means you were really living in the moment, and I think that was exactly what you should have been doing at this event!

    • Marlene, I 100% agree! ;)

  4. So glad we got to spend some time with you over the past few days (had to go out of town to make that happen lol) and this is a great list of takeaways. I was definitely motivated to get to the next level after leaving Blogalicious.

    • Thanks, Lamar! I had a blast with you and Ronnie, too. Ready to make things happen! ;)

  5. Thanks for helping represent the American Cancer Society at Blogalicious. Looks like the cupcake party was very nice :)

    • It was awesome and my pleasure to be able to help! ;)

  6. Lovely. Sounds you walked away with awesome content. So glad you had a good time!

    • Thanks, Jonesie! Missed you! And, can’t wait to spend time with you in Savannah! Hugs!

  7. Great recap! Congrats on losing 25 :)

    • Thanks so much! smiles!

  8. This was my first Blogalicious and I can not wait for the next one! It was awesome! And don’t feel bad, I had my camera and was too busy learning to take as many photos as I would have liked too!

    • Good for you! Glad you enjoyed it – smiles!

  9. Great post Wifey! Blogalicious was great! I posted a few pics on my blog and will post more on Friday…I hope to go next year!

    • Thanks, Jackie! Blogalicious is one of my favorite conferences! Will head over to check out your pics! ;)

  10. Wow! My head was spinning this past weekend. It’s still spinning from all the wonderful information I received. I can hardly put it into words how valuable this conference has been to me.

    • Krystal! It wouldn’t have been the same without you! Hugs!

  11. Wow! Love this recap and thanks for the love! I had SO much fun at Blogalicious – why didn’t I get a video or photo with you :( There was just so much going on. Very excited to see you on AlantaMoms – I will definitely repost and share. -lh

  12. Pingback: Crunchy-Chewy Mama » Blog Archive » Keeping up with the news (when your baby won’t sleep)

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