Illinois Blogger Event

On Saturday, I met with a wonderful group of women who blog and live in Illinois and Indiana. Heidi, of Dreams Intertwined was our gracious hostess, along with Jennifer Rizzo, who started it all last year. We started with introductions as everyone said a little something about themselves and their blogs. Some of us were already friends, and it was great to see each other again. There were many new faces. and a round table discussion about the ups and downs of blogging. We had a swap, and I received the cutest bee plates and napkins from Monica, and she was the recipient of my pillowcases. Many of the bloggers brought something for the treat bags, beautifully hand painted by Jennifer. My gift for the girls was a needle keeper, I saw in Somerset Home. There were treats, a handmade wallet, made by Suzanne of At Home With The Farmers Wife, paper ephemera from Heidi, a beautiful necklace from Jeannie, from The Gilded Junqueyard. Heidi's home was the perfect setting, her creative style and unique approach to decorating with vintage items was a treat in itself.

My needle keepers...

There's Suzanne, glad I got a photo of you. The treats and snacks were endless, and one of the only things I photographed! What was I thinking? I'm sure Jennifer took some great photos.

I did get a shot of this awesome chandelier.

We all remembered Annie, our dear friend we lost last year to cancer.Thank you Joy, for helping to heal our hearts, and remembering with us. In this group of women we experience life... our daily lives, our creative endeavors, our challenges and triumphs, our families and friends and share them in our blogs. Having a connection with these creative and wonderful women means so much to me. Blogs really do celebrate life, and record the moments that make life so precious. Thanks again to Heidi and Jennifer for all their hard work organizing this great event, and to all the Illinois Bloggers, thank you for your support and friendship.