“Bloggers love meeting other bloggers.”
Wise words from Jory des Jardins - who may not be a mommyblogger herself, but who understands what we’re about.
Tuesday’s event was a learning experience - not just for the attendees, but for all of us on the panel as well. Every single blogger shared valuable insight with the audience, and we all learned from each other too.
As much as I appreciate the opportunity to participate in such an event (thanks again to organizer and moderator Maria Bailey!), I must confess that what really makes me giddy is the chance to meet and chat up a group of like-minded women.
We’re not necessarily like-minded in our politics or religious beliefs or parenting style, but our blogging objectives transcend those differences. We have something to say, and we’re thrilled to have found others who want to listen. We want to listen to them too. Blogging has an incredible capacity for breaking down barriers.
It’s amazing to observe what bloggers have accomplished together - people who are geographically, and sometimes ideologically, removed from one another. The opportunity to physically meet each other creates even more opportunities. It’s not just about having tea or lunch or chocolate (although all of those were wonderful!). We make connections online, but they are cemented in person.
And that’s why I’d encourage continuing outreach in the form of blogger meet-ups. It’s not just a chance to socialize, but a chance to network for everyone’s benefit. There’s no corporate ladder in blogging, no vying for titles or promotions (blog awards and book deals aside!). As another wise blogging friend of mine noted: “It’s a meritocracy.” We all have something to gain by collaborating.
So I’m thrilled to have made a few more in-person connections. These are women who I’ll keep in mind now if opportunities arise that might suit them. Women whom I hope might come to me if they need input or referrals. Women whom I hope to see at future events.
May 22nd, 2008 at 4:29 am
Blogger meet-ups are definitely a great way to meet people! I used to think that it was harder to make friends in adulthood, but it seems that would only have been the case for me if I hadn’t been a blogger! It’s great to have something in common from the get-go.
Assertagirls last blog post..How about a nice cup?
May 22nd, 2008 at 5:58 am
Amen, sister!
Amys last blog post..Some changes
May 22nd, 2008 at 7:24 am
I was so glad to meet you (and sweet Oliver) on Tuesday! Hope to see you at future events.
caitlins last blog post..A Morning with the Mommy Bloggers
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:13 am
Thanks again for the truffly goodness. I’m not sure which was sweeter, the chocolate or Oliver (and his perfect little nose).
Marketing Mommys last blog post..Can you guess the animal?
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:15 am
I totally agree. We may choose to write on the internet, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t craving that in-person experience as well.
The only reason I ever feel the tiniest bit of jealousy when others go to a meet-up that I can’t attend is because I didn’t get to meet all those bloggers also. There are times I wish we all lived in one big neighborhood together.
Christinas last blog post..A Birthday Party Quandary
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:22 am
If it weren’t for blogging, I’m thinking I’d have about four friends. But thanks to the internet I have six whole friends.
May 22nd, 2008 at 10:22 am
Great post. I was just telling Arianne that you Chicago ladies have a great group of bloggers… !! I think it is so wonderful to connect and meet and share. Love your blog… (by the way!)
Audrey
May 22nd, 2008 at 12:16 pm
It’s so true- The whole notion of blogging is so much sweeter when you can make that personal connection!
Selfmademoms last blog post..A renewed sense of belonging
May 22nd, 2008 at 4:17 pm
great post! Blogging has opened up so many opportunities for me and I believe that it’s just the beginning!
ellinghouses last blog post..airports - survival of the fittest.
May 22nd, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Oh man, I missed smart bloggers saying smart things AND chocolate?
Glad you enjoyed it. Sounds like a very cool group.
Mom101s last blog post..Locking Up My Daughters
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:01 pm
I bet Oliver made some new friends too! Glad it was a successful trip.
And of course, I can’t wait for the next meet-up.
mayberrys last blog post..A stroll on the other stride
May 22nd, 2008 at 8:35 pm
“…they are cemented in person” SO true. I’m still a little embarrassed that I told you I was a fan.
Who says that?!
I hope we can connect at Blogher sometime, little O is simply munchable.
To Think Is To Creates last blog post..Mommybloggers Unite
May 22nd, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Finding great blogs is like peeking into someone’s window and watching their life. I enjoy scrounging blogs for witty posts about life. Blogger Meet-ups are fabulous ways to meet other creative people willing to dump out their purse for all to see.
-Inventing Matilda
May 23rd, 2008 at 5:55 am
I’m really looking forward to our next meetup- you were a delight to blogtalk with!
Steph
Adventures In Babywearings last blog post..The Pink And The Purple, It Is Invading
May 23rd, 2008 at 10:36 am
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May 24th, 2008 at 6:48 am
I cherish the virtual friendships I’ve made through blogging. I haven’t cemeted them in person yet, but I look forward to doing so.
Daisys last blog post..Summertime, and the reading is easy
May 24th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Oh good, I wasn’t speaking gibberish. I thought everyone on that panel was so interesting, I took copious notes! I had an a-ha moment about the savviness of women bloggers–more like a ANOTHER a-ha moment, actually. I’m going to write about the Twitter phenomenon in my next Jack Myers column. Even as an old-time blogger, I was floored!
Jory Des Jardinss last blog post..The Candidates and Immigration