Chicago
I’ve never been. I’ve always wanted to go. I never thought I’d get the chance now that I refuse to don’t travel for work anymore. I voted for Boston.
The plan when I bought my BlogHer09 conference pass was for the entire family to go and for this entire family to come with. The boys and kids would tour the city while she and I partied our butts off sat through extremely informative sessions on this fantastic medium that we love. Then her circumstances changed and she made the difficult decision not to go. I felt deflated.
But then I remembered that I had plans to finally lick meet this one. And I had recently gotten to be quite close to this one. And this one told me we could hug. And my amazing and supportive husband said he’d still come with Bean. So I continued down the path of finally getting to see Chicago.
Then the most disgusting month of all months hit when there was rain 17 out of 20 days and a sudden mass exodus of Earth with the undertone of more shit-tastic news fucking everywhere. Recap: Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Michael Jackson, Billy Mays and my dog – all inside of a week. Seriously, did your June suck or was it just me?
I had purchased my BlogHer pass in February. I reserved my hotel room. I had RSVP’d for the MamaPop Extravaganza. I had thought about my wardrobe. I stressed about traveling with a now increasingly mobile kid. I looked at flight options (this airport, that airport, noon time or evening) daily, but for some reason, my anxiety kept me from booking the flight.
Yesterday everything came to a head. I strongly considered not going. I couldn’t figure it all out. I was stressed about the travel, anxious about meeting new people, and guilty about leaving my husband and kid locked in a hotel room while I had fun. Part of me knew I couldn’t fully enjoy myself if I knew they were just upstairs alone. So the easiest decision was not to go.
But that didn’t feel right either.
I emailed and or called upon my circle. I talked honestly with my husband about how I felt. I slept on it.
And when I woke up I had my decision. I knew if I gave up the opportunity to go I might regret it since there were so many people I knew that wouldn’t even have the opportunity to give it up! I decided it would be best for our family if I made the trip alone. Once I had made this part of the decision, I felt about 30 pounds lighter. I eventually figured out that the stress of traveling with the baby was a huge portion of my anxiety. I mean the fact that Airbusses are just FALLING from the sky en masse was only PART of it. (Also? I can easily self medicate if I’m only responsible for myself ifyouknowwhatimean)
I booked my flight today. I’m Chicago bound. I can’t wait to lick hug shake-hands fist-bump you all.
YAY!! I’m SO glad you’re going… even though I’m super-sad that I won’t be there to meet you. Chicago is a fantastic city, and you’re going to get to hang out with some awesome women. Nothing better! Can’t wait to hear about it…
bessie.viola´s last blog ..life lessons
July 1st, 2009 | #
You should totally go and enjoy BlogHer09. I wish I could go too. Pretty sure you won’t regret your decision to head to Chicago though I understand your reasons not to fly with the baby and your friend having to jump ship…Still- enjoy and have the best time oh and don’t forget to report back
Kat´s last blog ..air new zealand has nothing to hide
July 1st, 2009 | #
I totally think BlogHer can only be truly enjoyed sans family. It is just so hard to really enjoy yourself in that type of situation when you aren’t worried about getting back to kiss her goodnight or have a meal or alleviate boredom of hubby. Have a fab time!
Michelle Smiles´s last blog ..Updates on the girls
July 1st, 2009 | #
LICK LICK LICK LICK LICK!!!
samantha jo campen´s last blog ..Victory lap
July 1st, 2009 | #
Good for you! Have fun in Chicago!!!
Cass´s last blog ..Dear Lexi: Month Eleven
July 1st, 2009 | #
So wish I was going to be there to hug you too! You’ll have a blast!
July 1st, 2009 | #
I’m one of those that may never have the chance to go. One because money blows more often than not and two I’m a sissy when it comes to meeting new people and traveling.
So proud of you for going! Hope you have a fantastic time and come back with loads of stories and pictures to share!!
Kellie´s last blog ..A Puddle with a Side of Giggles.
July 1st, 2009 | #
Sorry I can’t go! Stupid job! Harumph!
lilfootsmommy´s last blog ..4 years and 16 coupons later…
July 1st, 2009 | #
Yay! Just yay! Smiling ear to ear!!!
McCashew´s last blog ..things I need to remember
July 1st, 2009 | #
You totally just made my day. I’m so impressed that you made this decision. I know it’s a hard one to make, but I don’t think you’ll regret it, . I really wanted to email you last night but I just couldn’t manage it. Yes, I’m still in the hospital but reading blogs is taking my mind off of things. I cannot wait to hug you! Know that I will be there for you in Chicago if you’re missing your baby and you need a friend. xo
AnnetteK´s last blog ..what gall
July 2nd, 2009 | #
I am so happy for you that you get to go! I hope you have a fabulous time, meet new friends and get a good recharge for when you return to reality. We all need some time to recharge & refresh.
Dawn´s last blog ..as irony would have it, i live in a place where it’s Summer eight out of every twelve months.
July 3rd, 2009 | #
uh… I’ll go. Anything to get outta dis crib.
July 5th, 2009 | #