Creating and Connecting

When I first signed up for The Creative Connection and BlogHer Handmade it felt like a big, expensive risk.  In the months after I made the non-refundable reservations I doubted and questioned my decision and my intentions.  At the last minute I decided to sign up for the Pitch Slams and almost immediately regretted it.  I still can’t explain why I did it, but I did, and in this case the risk paid off.

I met a wealth of women whose advice, guidance, and friendship I intend to cultivate.  But there’s a special energy about moments like these. Being surrounded by so many creative and driven artists, writers, publishers, crafters, etc. and having the opportunity to share this experience with them was awe-inspiring. (Click the link, learn the word, because I mean it in a very literal sense.)

The Marketplace made me feel like Charlie Bucket!  There was just so much to take it and so little time.  I was completely amazed at the gorgeousness of it all, there were so many trinkets, dolls, books, etc. and each piece was just so darn covetable. 

And then there was the swag.  The fine folks at TCC had already mentioned a bag filled with $250 worth of gifts to be given at the dinner what they didn't mention was you'd need a bag for the swag that would be thrown your way at every turn!  You'll have to look through my Flickr pictures, I photographed everything as I tried to fit it all into my one checked bag!  It fit but weighed in at 33 pounds and that was NOT including about five magazines!

Outside of the event, I FINALLY got to go to an Ikea store. 

Eh, I like window shopping it online much better.  I did insist on having a meal there though.  I mean it's a sin not to at least try the meatballs, right?

Then there was the Mall of America! 

Eh, I just don’t think I was in the mood for mass consumerism.

It was very nice and quiet though, if you’re looking to visit I highly recommend Wednesday, September 14th around 11 a.m.  I was told by fellow travelers returning to MO that during the weekend it was CRAZY.  There was also a scrapbooking event being held there.

Well, I’m sure this is not the end of my rambling about TCC or the people I’ve met but for now this will have to do!  Lesson planning has pushed itself to the top of my priority list, at least for the night.