Most days, I feel like I have absolutely no clue what I’m doing with this little blog of mine. I just tend to write about random stuff that comes to me (and continue to be annoyed that a month’s worth of posts were completely deleted, thanks to a glitch in my blog). I’m sure that half of what I write about doesn’t even make sense to those of you who read it.

When I first decided to start my blog, I had a vision of what I wanted it to become – a place to let my randomness shine, a creative outlet for my (often expensive) craft habit, a way to connect with other moms (and hopefully make some lifelong friends in the process!), and, ultimately, a place to showcase my party designs!

Since moving out to California a few months ago, my life has become vastly different from what I ever imagined it would be. There are days when I feel very lonely. Life sometimes feels very mundane. I feel like I’m just going through the motions, day in and day out. Most of my days are spent with 2 little girls who can’t converse with me in an adult conversation. For anyone who knows me, they know that I thrive off of being around others. I’m a very “social” person (although I married someone who is the complete opposite – we can’t both compete for attention!), and I LOVE being around other people!

When I heard about the Elevate Blog Conference, hosted by Summer from  Made By Munchie’s Mama and Jen from Delightful Deets, I immediately signed up to go. I figured it was a great way to get out of the house and leave the girls at home with the hubby (yikes!). I figured it would allow me to have some “social time” with other women. I figured it would give me some ideas to get my blog moving along.

What I didn’t figure was how truly amazing it would be. Everything was so thought out, every detail planned to perfection – right down to the milk and cookies we were sent home with at the end of the night!

The conference atmosphere was so welcoming, from the Elevate sign leading the way to the super cute decorations (I loved them because they TOTALLY matched my blog theme!).

The food spread (both lunch AND dinner!) was super yummy, and the table settings were adorable (I love the mason jar lids!).

And, of course, the sweets table was amazing.

The conference started off with a “Blogger Bingo” game, which was a great way to break the ice while everyone was arriving. We also had a great time getting to know one another through Speed Networking (think Speed Dating – too fun!).

Summer and Jen, along with Nichole from Yeung Mother Hubbard, organized a great craft project.

We also were able to give back to the community by putting together school supply baggies, as part of The Shine Project. As a former teacher, this service opportunity really hit home.

And, of course, I can’t forget the A.MA.ZING. swag bags we were sent home with! A HUGE thank you to the Elevate sponsors! You guys are awesome!

I went to the Elevate conference on a total whim – looking for a way to have some “me time” without my kids and hubby, to hopefully make some new friends, and to learn a few things about putting together a great blog.

What I came away with was much more than I ever could have hoped for. Not only did I learn so many new things and come a way with so many new ideas, I met some amazing women and created many new friendships.

Here’s to looking forward to next year!

Happy Thursday!