Every time I call home, Jane starts crying. I am happy that I was not available to say good night today because I couldn't bear to hear her scream again. Scott has been fine, although he did make me promise before I left that nothing would happen to him while I was gone. I normally do not like to lie or promise things I can't control, but in this case, it seemed like the right thing to do to reassure him. Jane also told me in a sad little voice "don't leave me" yesterday morning. This after she had said at dinner, in response to me stating that no one at the conference was going to want to hang out with me, "I'll hang out with you, Mommy."
Feeling guilty, anyone?
Even though this makes me sad momentarily, it does not make me feel that this trip shouldn't have happened. I am quite happy to be here. This first day has been amazing. I've listened in on some terrific discussions and met fabulous bloggers. Some people I did not know before and some that I have been admiring and was hoping to meet.
It was loud in the hotel last night. People partying, kids crying, sirens outside. I remember now that this is one of the things I dislike about traveling. Being here in Chicago really brings back memories of my former single, professional life. I used to come to Chicago a lot for business because the large consulting firm I worked for was headquartered here and we had to attend training sessions at their compound. I even visited friends here and was surprised to recognize the restaurant across the street from the hotel where I became a coffee drinker back in 1993.
This morning I got up early, went to Starbucks, and then went running along the lake. There were so many people out exercising. I felt great afterwards. Four miles. It was very calming to get that run in while everything else is so different. The consistency of hearing myself breath and the feeling of my feet hitting the pavement was grounding.
I forgot how nice everyone is here. It is obvious that this is not the East Coast. And I also forgot what a great city this is. I do love sight seeing and being in a city. I enjoy the pulse of an urban community. The access to everything. I still do not know why, but there was a smell in the air this morning of brownies baking. It was heavenly and so unexpected. It reminded me of the way it smelled in Hackettstown, NJ where I worked at the M&M plant.
Traveling now seems so different than when I was in the thick of it. With my laptop, cell phone, iPod, and WiFi, I am easy to reach and can stay connected. The technology is incredible.
There is a lot to say about this conference and what I have learned and experienced so far. Tomorrow is another jam-packed day. I feel invigorated to blog more and to focus on certain things. As I discuss this blog and my original intentions I realize how much I have to offer. People are interested.
Now I need some sleep. More tomorrow.
LOVED the logo and wish I was with you in Chicago! Keep me apprised for the next conference-I will go with you for sure.
Posted by: Laura | July 29, 2007 at 11:58 AM