I spent today attending a Catholic Women’s Blogging Network blogging conference and I must say, my head is spinning with everything that I’ve learned. I am a cradle Catholic and probably the least overtly Catholic women there. There were about 35 amazing women present. Many of them were converts to Catholicism and they were all passionate and verbal about their passion. I was also the oldest. I refused to let these things make me feel uncomfortable. I had the best time and learned so much.
Finding our places
Unique placecards
The conference was part of the CWBN and was organized by four young women, Micaela Darr (http://californiatokorea.com/), Jenna Guizar (http://blessedisshe.net/), Kendra Tiernay (http://www.catholicallyear.com/), and Kristin Sanders (http://www.thisinspiredlife.net/about/).
It is a total fluke on how I heard about CWBN. I am really not sure. But from the moment I heard of the conference I knew I was going to go. This would be my opportunity to learn more about my craft and network with other bloggers.
And I did learn so much. I was able to network with other women bloggers who are in various stages in their blogging career from having only one post published to having been working the craft for several years. The reasons these bloggers gave for blogging all varied and their journeys are fascinating.
The day started with breakfast, introductions, and the rosary. Yes, the rosary. These are women who joyfully profess their faith in their day-to-day lives and on their blogs. I believe I was the only truly secular blogger at the conference. (And a little rusty on my rosary.)
Breakfast
The flowers were a nice touch
The keynote speaker, Andrea Boring flew in from Phoenix. Andrea was anything but “boring.” Her story of reversion, Facebook Saved My Soul, brought me to tears.
Kendra presentation on Pinnable pinterest pictures
There were 4 sessions—Creating Pinnable Pictures, Podcasting, Blogging for the Glory of God, and Social Media Cohesion. I took copious notes and I hope that I can practice some of what I learned to make Sew Travel Inspired even better. Don’t worry about me going all religious on you. That is not my style. But it has been a long time since I have prayed the rosary. I had forgotten how comforting I found it. As my mother said when I told her about the conference, “It wouldn’t hurt if it brought you closer to your faith.” It was truly an a day filled with inspiration, learning, and good fellowship. Let’s hope we all see the benefits from today in the improvements in my blog.
(Mom, you will be happy to know that today has brought some of the passion for my faith back to me.)
Jennifer @ Little Silly Goose says
It was nice to meet you at the conference, and I’m glad you found it to be a day that was not only informative but inspiring. I hope this group is able to continue to keep in touch even as the excitement of the conference fades away.
Maria Perez says
It was great meeting you also. I would also like to keep in touch with all you amazing women.
Bobbi says
I’m glad you decided to come, Maria. It was a pleasure meeting you. I love my little chap stick holder and every time I use it I’ll say a little prayer for you. 😉
[email protected] says
Bobbi, I love your enthusiasm and energy. I enjoyed meeting you last weekend. And as my 94 year old mother would say, "We need all the prayers we can get!" I am looking forward to putting to good use some of what I learned about blogging.
MaryRuth says
Maria I was great to meet you! I look forward to following your journeys!