I feel like I’m part of the “in” crowd. This is a rare feeling for me, so I’m planning to savor it.

“Why do you feel like you’re part of the ‘in’ crowd?” you may ask.

Well, because I was one of the cool kids who got to go to Press Publish last weekend.

“And what’s that?” you wonder.

Only the best little WordPress blogging conference around. Seriously, it was really good. The WordPress genies (I guess they actually work for Automattic… I’m not sure) were everywhere, and they made sure that everything was taken care of.

The venue was beautiful, Phoenix’s own Heard Museum, which is worth a visit even if there isn’t an awesome blogging convention happening there, and the day was perfect for the gourmet outdoor luncheon that was served. You know me, I’m ALL about the food! And man, was it good! From the breakfast spread (they made it sound like there would be a few dried up muffins, but it was so much better than that, even the weird sounding but delicious vegan peanut butter protein squares) to the incredible flour-less chocolate cake with a fine dusting of chili powder served for dessert… YUM.

Of course it wasn’t just a luncheon, it was a blogging conference, so naturally I came to hear and learn from other bloggers, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Katherine Fritz started the day with a bang. I’m sure many of you have read at least one of her posts from her phenomenal blog I Am Begging My Mother Not to Read This Blog.  She is articulate, intelligent, witty, and best of all, very warm. I enjoyed not only her presentation, but getting the chance to chat with her later.

The other bloggers were just as wonderful, and each presented his or her own experiences, which varied greatly. Russ Crandall, aka The Domestic Man, shared his experiences with some personal challenges which resulted in the evolution of his food blog. Emily Austin, author of The Waiting, was equally candid about her experiences as a “mommy blogger,” and what that does or does not mean to her. Finally, Kathy Cano-Murillo, the Crafty Chica, brought her infectious enthusiasm to the stage and wowed the audience with her energy and ideas. These folks are amazing and their blogs have brought them opportunities above and beyond establishing relationships with readers. I tip my hat to them, and thank them for their insights.

The WordPress folks were incredible too. They presented sessions on all sorts of topics, from customizing themes to embedding video to blogging on the go. They are an extremely knowledgeable group of people, and doggone it, they’re really nice too.

I loved my conference day. I left feeling energized and informed. I walked away with an awesome goody bag, a full belly (important in my world), and ideas swirling around in my head.

If Press Publish comes to your town (or even near it) I would encourage you to go. And no, they didn’t pay me to say that!