My own little taste of Blissdom

I reeeeaaaaly wanted to go to Blissdom.  But this year, I didn't feel like it was my time.  But next year, I'm there.

I wanted so badly to go to the Handmade Marketplace on Thursday but I'd heard it was for Blissdom Attendees only.  Four of MY FAVORITE Handmade Idols were there.  Gussy Sews, Allora Handmade, The Pleated Poppy & Lisa Leonard were among the greatness that was The Handmade Marketplace.

After all the tweets that were going out about it, I almost faked sick and made myself a Blissdom badge.  I decided against both.

However, Saturday morning, I checked my twitter and it was blowing up about a Pop-Up-Shop going on at Blissdom in one of their hotel rooms.  Hoopla?  I'm there.

After a call to the MIL & SIL, we were all set up to go!  After three trips around the parking lot and finding 1 of 3 free spots to park, we were on our way in.

To say I was excited would be an understatement.  I've read these blogs forever.  These girls are part of my morning routine.  They inspire me.  The motivate me.

We made it in and the first person I see is Maggie.  I couldn't believe it!  I was so excited.  The room was filled with so much color and happiness.  Ruffles, rosettes, posies, jewelry.  Lots of pretties.

The girls were all so sweet.  Even though they didn't know who I was {well...Maggie did....we've exchanged emails on a few occasions} they were so welcoming and kind! I also got to meet the adorable Hayley of The Tiny Twig.  So much fun! 

It's so strange to see all of them in person, when I've only seen them in pictures for so many years. But I can assure you they are even more beautiful in person!  These ladies radiate beauty and confidence and you feel the same when you are in their presence.

I want to have that kind of effect on people.  When they are with me, they feel on top of the world.

                {Annie & Maggie}                        {My Loot}                               {Annie & Jess}

Absolutely an amazing Saturday!  So much fun to meet these girls!

Now Sunday.  Sunday was a planned day.  One we'd planned for weeks and counted down the days.  I would FINALLY get to meet my long lost soul sister, AP.  

I have read Ashley's blog for a long time now.  Probably since almost the beginning of ILYMTC.  We've shared many emails, tweets and comments over the years.  A friendship built over the world wide web.  I never really believed in frienships like this.  But they do exist.   

I picked Ashley up after her whirlwind weekend of Blissdom. When we saw each other, it was like we'd known each other for years.  Like we'd done this before.  Like we'd hugged many times before and we were just reconnecting.  I love how small the world really is.  Its so much fun to have friends like this!

Eight of us got together for brunch on Sunday morning at the Copper Kettle.  It was lunch by the time we were seated, but that didn't keep us from having a good time.  

From left to right:

Lauren{and Claire}, Yours Truly, AP, Laura, Elizabeth, Jen, Amber{and Abby}

I felt like I've known these girls forever.  Most, I really only 'met' about a month ago when we started planning this brunch, but we got along like we were long lost friends.  I look forward to getting to know each one so much better and continue with these friendships for a long time. 

It was such a wonderful day!  Good good, great friends, sunshine.  Good for the soul.  

As with the good things in life, they always go way too fast.  And this day was no different.  Ashley and I spent some time at Starbucks after our brunch and then it was off to the airport.  It was bittersweet sending her off.  It just went way too fast.  

It really is amazing how strangers can get together and meet for the first time, but feel more like a reunion of long, lost friends.  

No, I didn't officially get to go to Blissdom, but for now, this was more than enough for me. 

It's a special gift.  Blogging.  And these girls.