Ten Things I Learned at BlogHer.

Last night, I was tired and feeling sappy, so you got the maudlin post. Today, I’m tired and feeling crabby, so you get the real post. And after I write this, I promise to shut up about the whole thing.

So without further ado, I bring you ten things I learned at BlogHer.

Flying to New York City will not magically make you less shy. I had hoped that somewhere between Indianapolis and LaGuardia I’d find my social butterfly wings. I didn’t.

Shyness doesn’t have to be a crippling disease. I, Amber Page, lover of quiet corners and empty spaces, attended parties alone. I introduced myself to countless people. Even made small talk over lunch with strangers. Sure, every one of those activities made me want to throw up (the main reason I left NYC two pounds lighter than I arrived), but I did it.

Most people are ridiculously nice. At one of the above-mentioned parties, I  walked up to Everyday Goddess and Avitable (both of whom are kind of a big deal) and they were super sweet, talking me to far longer than was necessary be polite.

Some people (of both genders) are bitches. Want to feel about six inches tall? Strike up a conversation with someone who can’t be bothered to notice that you exist. Literally (side note: I need to master that blank stare).

Some writing workshops/discussions will inspire you. In particular, the session moderated by Maggie Dammit (and other equally magnificent women whose names I don’t remember) made me feel like I could change the world.

Some workshops will not. And nothing more needs to be said about that.

The sight of 2,000 bloggers gathered in one spot to celebrate their collective awesomeness is indeed awesome. The sight of 50 people between you and the toilet you so badly need is not.

Getting free stuff can be addicting. I went to New York City determined not to fall prey to the siren call of swag. But when Mommy’s Still Fabulous showed me all her loot? My inner Material Girl took over (but it all fit in my suitcase, so clearly I remained in control).

I will do a lot for a free mattress. I filled out forms. Stretched out on a bed in a public space (wearing a skirt). And, most shocking of all, I let myself be filmed begging for a bed. Because I? Desperately need a mattress. And Tempur-Pedic beds rock. They rock hard (and they’re not even paying me to say that).

I can no longer stay up until 2 a.m. three nights in a row without paying the price. My 11:30 p.m. bedtime is strictly enforced and now I remember why (hold me, Internet. I am exhausted).

So that’s it. The top ten things I learned at BlogHer. What did you learn this weekend?

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