What I learned at BloggyBootCamp
Posted by amelie522 | Posted in All posts, because I don't have enough to categorize yet | Posted on 03-09-2010
71
Bloggy Boot Camp. I don’t even know where to start. It was so much good, so much happy, so much fun. I fully expected to be in awe of the speakers, as well as their brilliant commentary on social media, but awe doesn’t even adequately describe the emotion. The different topics discussed were all presented in such a way so as not to alienate attendees that weren’t quite as advanced as others. Questions were encouraged, as well as comments. It was such a productive and progressive environment. It had this feeling of community, connectivity, and kindness. Some of the other women there said that Bloggy Boot Camp had a distinctly different vibe to it, in relation to other conferences. And that’s why I think I’m so lucky; my first conference was one that seasoned conference goers thought was one of the best. It wasn’t just about PR, or SEO, or gaining more readers. It was about learning who you are as a blogger, what you want the world to know about you, and how you want the world to remember you. It was about commenting and how to deal when you get a nasty one. It was such a well-rounded agenda, and it was done with humor, which is so right up my alley. Branding, which isn’t something I’d really thought about, was a topic that was particularly intriguing to me. How do I want people to see me? What is my brand, my image to my readers? And that’s where the real learning for me came in….
I’m taking this blog in a different direction. See, I’ve been blogging for such a short time, so I’m lucky that I haven’t gained tons of readers that will drop me like a bad habit if I change my perspective. I’ve been writing this with YOU, my precious, beloved readers, in mind. While this is a great thing, it’s been keeping me from truly writing in my own style. Why, you ask? Because I’ve been deathly afraid of offending anyone. Not that I’m going to start throwing around nasty words or calling people names (well maybe some people), but I’ve decided to be authentic. The authentic me is what I want people to respond to, not some toned down version of a girl I think everyone wants to hear from. I want to succeed as a blogger because of the real me, the chick that loves music, that hates slow drivers in the left lane, and occasionally says a naughty word. I want people to read my blog and go, “Hell yeah, sister! We’re with you!”
Bloggy Boot Camp gave me this confidence, this power, this strength. Tiffany, Kat, and Jill (and Fran and Sarah and…oh I could go on and on) were nothing short of my Boot Camp guardian angels, not because I completely fell in love with them on a personal note, but because they are living examples of what happens when you follow your heart, no matter what it may say. Being in the presence of these women, women of courage, of strength, of intelligence and humor, was such an enlightening experience. It’s as if their good juju rubbed off on me, and I’m trying not to lose it. So I haven’t showered since Sunday. Just joking….or not. I hate the shower, one thing you’ll learn about me on this new and improved blog. But I digress….
So to all my loyal readers, all 7 of you, the times they are a-changin’. But stick around. I promise you, you’ll not be disappointed.
And for all of you contemplating going to Bloggy Boot Camp: do yourself a solid and go. Sign up for one as soon as you can. It’s not just that the information is crucial, it’s the people. It’s the spirit of camaraderie and unity, the feeling that you are surrounded by other people, other women, that think like you do and love the same things you do. Bloggy Boot Camp was more than a conference, it was a chance to see these people I’ve considered “friends” face to face, and realize that finding them was nothing short of a miracle. Especially in this big, crazy world, where you walk past people every single day, never knowing their name, their passions, their victories and defeats. Tiffany from SITS put on a conference that was so much more than just a conference. She brought together a group of women that were on the same page, so to speak. A group of women that not only wanted to learn, but wanted to teach each other what worked for them and what didn’t. It was truly an experience I will never forget. I left Baltimore feeling like I was more than ready to tackle my blog, with renewed vigor and vitality. I wanted to go write, and I wanted to go write as ME.
I left Bloggy Boot Camp knowing this: I had found my tribe.
WOW! Awesome recap. Can I just say after meeting you that you must be authentic here because you are just too cool. It would be a shame to try to hide that hear. Oh and we are totally on the same level of hating slow drivers in the left lane!! Good luck with bringing out the you, I can’t wait to be here to watch your blog grow. You are in my reader sistah. I’m glad you found your tribe!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
GIRL!! You are one of the coolest chick-a-dees I met at boot camp! I’m just sad I didn’t get to talk to you more. We have to keep in touch, promise? Thanks for reading my post, I’m so flattered! You are in my Reader, and I hope I stay in yours. And as far as the slow drivers, we must be secret soul sisters or something and that is why we MUST meet again.
[Reply]
In from The Secret is in the Sauce:)
I’m a new blogger and this is the 2nd blog I’ve read today that really enjoyed the Bloggy Boot Camp.
I’m going to do everything I can to attend the next one. Thanks for your encouragement.
Looking forward to reading more.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 10:03 pm
Thanks for coming over from SITS! I love that community more than words. You should definitely try to go, it’s perfect for the first time conference goer. And can’t wait to check out your blog! Have fun, and thanks again!
[Reply]
Great recap! I think your renewed energy for your blog is the very best thing you could have taken away from this experience. That and the friendships you made. It’s a whole new world. Can’t wait to see what you’ll do!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 10:05 pm
Cara! I wish I would’ve been able to talk to you more. I feel like I’ve said that a gazillion times, but it really is true. But I totally agree, my most important takeaway from the experience was my renewed energy for the blog and the realization that I have to be ME, no holds barred. Thanks for coming by to read my post, I’m honored…and kinda freaked out because you are such a great writer!!
[Reply]
Carabee Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:35 pm
Oh stop! (blushing) You are a fantastic writer and I am completely sincere when I say that I look forward to whatever new direction you plan to venture into! I’m along for the ride.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
You are so cool I can’t even take it. I’m ready to jump into this new venture with both feet, and I’m so honored you’re coming along for the ride. Once again, I’m absolutely in awe of you and your writing. Thanks, Cara
i am so bummed that i missed bloggy boot camp. it sounds like an awesome experience.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:41 pm
Oh. My. Crap. Did you just seriously comment on MY blog? First off, I’m beyond flattered, I’m floored. Second, Bloggy Boot Camp still has other dates in Phoenix and Philly, but I’m not sure which is sold out. You can still go. And last but certainly not least: you rock. Thanks for coming by, and now I have to try not to pass out from sheer excitement at your commenting on my blog.
[Reply]
So, I actually got a bit choked up when reading this post.
The fact that you walked away wanting to be your authentic self on your blog and that I could have had even the tiniest part in that is amazing.
The highest compliment I could be paid.
Thank you so much for bringing your fabulous spirit and contagious smile {and gorgeous hand bag} to Baltimore. It was an absolute pleasure to meet you and hang out.
I look forward to watching you!
xoxo
Tiffany
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:45 pm
Oh, Tiffany! You are such an inspiration to me, and you had EVERY part of making me want to be my authentic self. You’re infectious spirit and your absolutely stunning beauty, inside and out, just made my experience at Bloggy Boot Camp what it was. I couldn’t even begin to thank you enough for what you did for me last weekend. Thank you for hanging out with ME, and I hope we’ll get to see each other again soon. You’re one funny, awesome, intelligent, and kind woman….and I’d give you that bag in a heart beat, lady.
XOXOX
[Reply]
It was great meeting you this weekend! I was feeling the same way you are feeling for awhile…wrote about it before Baltimore and felt even stronger about my choices when I got back. I had no idea the effect this weekend would have on me…so thankful I went and met so many amazing women!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:50 pm
Cheryl, I can’t tell you how glad I am we met. I love you on Twitter, and face to face you are just an absolute joy to be around. It’s so funny that we both had those epiphanies about our content and our writing. It was such an amazing experience, and meeting you and all the other ladies was definitely the highlight. Thanks for coming by and commenting!
[Reply]
So awesome! Happy for you that you have found your tribe – it’s a good feeling
I am very bummed that I will miss them in San Francisco, but my 4 year old needs her mama to celebrate her birthday!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 9th, 2010 at 11:53 pm
Well, a birthday party is definitely the MOST important thing ever! My little dude will be 4 in May. Doesn’t it speed by so quickly, it’s like you blink and they’re rolling their eyes at you? Okay, that hasn’t happened yet, but pretty darn close. I’m so happy I went, and finding my people, my tribe, was so comforting. Even though you won’t get to attend, all the recaps are so incredible, you’ll feel like you did. Thanks for coming by!
[Reply]
I saw this on a tweet from SITS. What a wonderful post. The bravery to be yourself in your blog is priceless. I don’t have many followers likely because I am ME there. And for the most part not like you said the watered down girl I think peep would like. So “hell yeah sister! You go girl!”
~Krimsin
@Krimsin on twitter
[Reply]
Wow!! Girlfriend knows how to WRITE! Well said, well written and SO nice! Thank you….I walked away from Baltimore wondering why on Earth I hadn’t heard more of you. You come across as a very genuine Cameron Diaz knock off. And I love me some Cameron.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:05 pm
Oh for the love…Kat, you are one cool lady. I can’t believe you were here and commented on my blog. MY BLOG?? Anyway, admiration and total obsession aside, thank you for the compliments, and I hope that you continue to read and enjoy my writing. Because to have you comment my writing is a compliment of the highest order. I’m throwing myself a cocktail party just because you, Jill, Tiffany, Sarah, and Fran read my post and commented on it.
[Reply]
This started my day in the best way!!! Such a lovely post. And, you? Were truly one of the highlights of the weekend. I’m so, so glad to have met you. Can’t wait to see you again!! xo
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
My sweet new friend, Jill. I heart you more than you know. I’m so thrilled you were here and read my post, and more than that, you enjoyed it. You truly made BBC an experience I’ll never forget. I cannot wait to see you again, and when I do, I’m going to hug the crap out of you. And next time, you’ll be coming to my room, for there will be a treat waiting just for you (and me too)
You are my people, and I’m so grateful to have met you.
[Reply]
Oh Trish, you completely captured the essence of Boot Camp here! I don’t think anyone reading this could NOT want to go!
I’m so glad I got to chat with you at dinner. I love your spirit and your vibe (and your style!)
You’ve definitely got a new reader in me.
XOXO
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:09 pm
Sarah, you are one incredible human being. You are funny, wise, kind, and just generally freakin’ awesome. Thank you for coming here and reading the post. I’m so glad you liked it. Next time, we better get more time to B.S. I need more of your stories!! I’m so hugging the crap out of you too, the next time we meet. Like I said, you are my kind of people. XOXOXO
[Reply]
Tricia, I was SO GLAD to meet you at dinner on Friday night. You are refreshing and original and you helped me feel comfortable right away! Love this post… looking forward to seeing more of you!
Oh, and BTW, the blog is up and running! Yay! Thanks for your feedback!
Too bad we didn’t hang more on Saturday! Ah Well, there’s always next year…
Angie
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Angie!! The blog looks amazing!! We need to hang more next time for sure, because you are seriously a homemaker, but you’re seriously hilarious! I am so thankful you sat next to me at dinner Saturday. You’re presence made me feel relaxed, comfortable, and more than that…happy
You’re one fabulous mama!
[Reply]
Aw, this was awesome! Bloggy Boot Camp was awesome. I so enjoyed you.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:13 pm
I enjoyed you, too, Jen! I feel like I’ve said this a billion times, but I wish I could’ve talked to you more! I hope I get to see you again very soon, but until then, I’ll be stalking your blog like a weirdo. You’re a really amazing mom, and one person I would love to get to know better. And you came here and read my post…and commented?? I can’t take this, all these rock star bloggers commenting on my post….I’m going to pass out from pure bliss.
[Reply]
I am officially in love with the authentic you. This post blew me away. Such beautiful words from such a lovely, lovely girl.
You touched upon something that I think everyone deals with in blogland at one point or another. Who are you writing for? Yourself or your audience?
Personally, I want to read posts from the non-showering, swearing, mistake-making girl because she is who I recognize. She’s a lot like me.
And let’s face it, she is a hell of a lot more fun.
xo
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
I was officially in love with you from our first conversation. Fran, I truly feel like meeting you was a big moment for me, not just because you’re a total rock star, but because you are the kind of person I aspire to be like. You are a beautiful soul, and hilarious to boot. And I’ve got more non-showering, swearing, and mistake-making coming down the pipe…so stay tuned, love! I’m so thankful you talked to me Saturday night, because I’m hoping I’ve made a friend for life. Thanks, Fran. You are SOOO my people, girl. XOXOXO
[Reply]
PS: If the Marc Jacobs bag is up for grabs, know that I am not above fighting for it.
And I am pretty sure that I could take Tiffany.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:18 pm
Oh, now this needs to be on the agenda at the next BBC….I am not above charging people to watch that throw down!! But honestly, I’d just get you and Tiffany your own, I love you both so much
[Reply]
Oh, girl!
You hit it right on!
It was so fabulous meeting you Saturday—I am still waiting for the song, though.
Next time—I am holding you to it
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:19 pm
I am so singing next time, and I will not hesitate to belt it out! So wish we could’ve talked more, and it was incredible meeting you in real life….how often does a stalker get to meet so many of her stalkees in one place (just made up that word)? Thank you for the kind words, and I’ll see you at the judges table next time, girlie!
[Reply]
This post is so well written, and so true – I felt the same way about Boot Camp!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Thanks, Megan! You are too sweet, and your writing is so funny! BBC was such an incredible experience. I want to go to all of them now!
[Reply]
That’s something I learned a while ago from blogging…I started out just like you. I’d talk about what I wanted to BUT I was always worried about offending people. Not so much my readers but like family or friends who knew me personally…I would have hated for them to see a side of me they never saw before. BUT I got over that and fast. It’s MY space. It’s MY time. I’ll say what I want. I want to look back and read archives and know that that was ME talking and not what I thought people wanted to read. I”m glad you decided to do the same. Can’t wait!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
It is MY space, MY time! You hit the nail on the head, Becky. Thank you so much for commenting on my posts, and I’m so sorry I’m such a comment slacker. I will never be again, not after this past weekend though! I’m your biggest fan, and I’m so grateful you’ve been so kind to me from day one. You’re a friend for life in my book. I heart you big time, sweet friend.
[Reply]
What an awesome recap, wonderfully written. I had a fantastic time at Bloggy Boot Camp. My only regret was not getting to spend time with everyone. I LOVE what you came away from BBC with. A tribe. Isn’t that what we all need?
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 5:48 pm
You’re so right on with that. I loved meeting you, and I regret that we didn’t get more time to talk! Thank you so much for the wonderful comment. I can only hope to write as well as you, and the other fabulous BBC moms.
[Reply]
Oh, honey, you are a FABULOUS person! I am so, so honored to have met you at Bloggy Boot Camp! Your blog is indeed awesome as it is, but I’m looking forward to following all the changes you make and the things you do.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 5:49 pm
Michele! Thank you so much for the kind words, and I’m so thankful to have met you! I only wish we had more time with one another! You are fabulous, and I owe you some Tillamook if I get to Portland! Thank you for coming to read the post!
[Reply]
Totally hear ya! Until recently I’ve felt like I’ve been trying to be something and act in way that isn’t at all me. I started a new blog to really talk about the things I want regardless of if no one can relate, knowing that there are bound to be people who can relate! I’m working on living a completely authentic, honest life! Good luck to you!
Alison
livingalifeofbliss.blogspot.com
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 5:50 pm
Right on, sister! Authentically being is the only way to live. I’m so happy to have walked away from BBC with that piece of wisdom. Thanks for reading!
[Reply]
What a beautiful post! I saw this referenced on twitter a few times, so I had to come read.
What a great recap and inspiring post about your experience. I’m so glad you found what you want to write and the direction you want to go in- you have to enjoy what you do! Thank you for sharing, you have a new follower in me!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 5:52 pm
Thanks, Ashley! I’ll be following you as well, my friend! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Your kind words warmed my heart.
[Reply]
YOU GO GIRL! I love it. I think you’re gonna set the world on fire. Watch out Slow Drivers, Tricia’s got your number!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
You are too kind….and I love that you said I’m gonna set the world on fire….you better help me with that, mama!
[Reply]
Wow! What a wonderful recap of your experience. And I agree about being authentic. That is one of my goals as well. I am your newest follower, love your blog. And thanks for stopping by mine and the nice compliments!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:48 pm
I’m so honored to have you following my little old (well new, actually) blog! I am so happy you like it! Authenticity is my goal for the new year, in every aspect of my life. Glad you’re here, Tina!
[Reply]
Honest to blog!
Sorry, I couldn’t resist.
Well, consider me part of your tribe, lady. I would be honored to be in such wonderful company!
[Reply]
Good for you!
I wish Bloggy Boot Camp was around my area. I would love to go! Glad you had a great time.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 9:44 pm
Thanks! I appreciate your visit, and I had to laugh when I read your post about your son’s newfound “toy”. It’s totally normal. Thanks again for commenting! And there are quite a few different dates and places for Bloggy Boot Camp, so see if you can’t get to one!
[Reply]
Nice to meet you!! I am also a part of SITS but found your blog through Christine at Mommy Madness…I love what you wrote about…how you didn’t want to offend anyone.
Now I can tell you that I swear, speak vulgarly and rock out with my Sock out!! I also know how to tone it down; however, I can’t tell you how much my readership has changed since I have stuck with my inner sarcastic, witty, charming self that I am normally…I really hope that you have it down as I really like your blog…and hope to see you go further.
The bootcamp must have been amazing though…I only wish there was something closer to me (I’m Canadian) and to have one here…would be amazing!!
Anyhow, I tried to follow you; however, I couldn’t find your peeps…
thanks again and have a great time with it!
Danon
http://www.insatiablehost.blogspot.com
http://www.pantypyramid.blogspot.com
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 10:52 pm
You can subscribe to my blog by clicking on the RSS guy in the upper right-hand corner. You can follow me on Twitter by clicking on the bluebird in the top right part of my header. How fantastic would a SITS Canada conference be? I’d go in a heartbeat, as I’m quite a Canada lover myself; in fact, I’ve tried to convince my hubby on numerous occasions to move there. So nice to meet you! I can’t wait to go read your blog, as I think we are two awesomely great minds that think alike…just kidding, I’m so far from conceited, it’s unbelievable. Anyway, thanks for commenting, I’m so grateful! Can’t wait to follow you!
[Reply]
This was such a beautiful post. Truly made me teary-eyed reading it.
You captured the real feeling of the conference perfectly and even more wonderful that it helped you to figure out your tribe.
I LOVED meeting you. You are such a beautiful person
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 10th, 2010 at 11:21 pm
You are such a kind soul. I am so happy you enjoyed this post. Loved meeting you and cannot wait to meet with you again. You’re quite the inspiration, and i’m grateful to have found your blog, but more importantly, to have found you! Thanks, Debi!
[Reply]
You are beautiful! I think the only thing I regret about BBC is that there wasn’t more time to get to know peeps! But, from what I can tell you are one cool mama whose voice is totally worth hearing! I can’t wait to hear more…ok, and see more, cause your outfits girl, were totally rockin’! I’m going to be putting your face on my blog again tomorrow…and your tunic! Wanna share where you got it?
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 11th, 2010 at 4:03 pm
You are beautiful, woman!! And by the way, you have style like nobody’s business! The tunic came from a little boutique in Florida, on Boca Grande. I will let you know where it can be found as soon as it’s back from the cleaner. I really hope you come back and read, because I’m honestly so inspired by your blog and all that you do over there; it’s absolutely fantastic!! Thank you so much for making my entire month by putting my pic on your blog, and for telling me I have great style! You are one awesome lady, and I can’t wait to meet up again.
[Reply]
LoveFeast Table Reply:
March 11th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
I liked it so much…peek…cause you’re front and center on Friday!!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 12th, 2010 at 11:41 am
WWHHAATTTT??? My hands are literally shaking right now. I’m going over right now, and I’m sure I’ll be calling every single person I know.
Huzzah for finding your tribe!
In my extensive research of spending hours and days and years on the internets, I’ve found my tribe change, flex, bend, break, and ultimately be Awesome.
It’s ever-changing, but never, ever, change yourself to be in a tribe that’s not worth your time.
Or something like that.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 11th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
I know you are right on that one. It’s totally true. And I will never bend to be someone else’s tribe member. Done that way too many times, and it sucked ass. Can I be in your tribe of Awesome? Maybe? Think about it….get back to me.
[Reply]
AWWWW
I don’t think you could have given those ladies a bigger compliment.
Makes me wish I’d been able to go! WOW. Sounds fantastic.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 11th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
If you would’ve gone…Oh my goodness, I think I would’ve fainted. Literally. I am so not kidding about that. It was so incredible though.
[Reply]
What a wonderful, wonderful post! I loved reading this one, and your BBC intro post — I almost fell out of my chair when reading, “Shut your face!” since I can now totally hear you saying it!!
Looking forward to reading more, and hopefully running into you again in another town!
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 14th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
Dianna, you are such a doll! I hope to meet you again very soon, you are absolutely hilarious and adorable. I’m so glad you liked the posts. Thank you so much for coming by!
[Reply]
Man, I love this post. I’ve only been blogging a year and I’ve just figured things out. In terms of my writing, I think I’ve always been true to my self, it’s my goals I’m just figuring out. Anyway, all I know is this blogging world is a damn fine one and I’m proud to be part of it.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 17th, 2010 at 5:28 am
Bloggy Boot Camp was so awesome. It made me feel so much more confident in regards to my blogging, and my writing especially. I’ve been doing this a very short time, but it feels right, right in my soul, at the very essence of “me”. Hoping I can do it forever! Thanks again for commenting! LOVE CCWA!!
[Reply]
This was SO awesome!! So many of the bloggers I follow are over here commenting on your blog! THAT says something.
You point is extremely well taken – write for an audience of ONE. YOU.
I hope that I’ll be able to get to a BloggyBootCamp at some point. For today, my project is to write another post, being as authentic as possible.
Have a wonderful Easter!
.-= Trece´s last blog ..Will this count for Eternity? =-.
[Reply]
amelie522 Reply:
March 31st, 2010 at 8:02 pm
WOW! I can’t believe people are actually coming over here and it’s noticeable. I feel so grateful and completely floored!! I’m really excited that you liked the Boot Camp post. It’s one of my favorite ones as well. And being you is the only thing that matters to your readers. Have a wonderful Easter yourself! And thank you eternally for stopping by.
[Reply]
I love this blog. It’s awesome and makes me feel warm inside! yepee
[Reply]