Recently, I went to a blogging conference in Arizona, called Blended. Traveling brings me so much joy. Staying in hotels, flying on airplanes, attending conferences, navigating new cities on my own, learning new things, meeting new people and experiencing places I’ve never been before, I love it!
This conference was a bit different than those I usually attend. It wasn’t just for food bloggers, but travel bloggers, DIY bloggers and Mommy bloggers too!
Many times, I try to arrive a day early to check out the local scene or visit any friends in the area. This time was no different. My friend Tayrn, who owns Phoenix Bites, lives in Arizona and while she wasn’t able to go to the conference this year, she was able to sneak away for a late lunch and some serious girl time.
We met at this cute little restaurant and brewery called “The Perch.” Not only do they make their own beer, they also rescue exotic birds! The outside eating area is full of huge cages and so many gorgeous, brightly colored birds. Some of them will even talk to you and dance if you hum a merry tune! It’s one of Taryn’s favorite places and I can see why! If you’re ever in Chandler Arizona, just outside Phoenix, stop in and check it out! Make sure you order the tater tots too. Just sayin’.
It was great to catch up with Taryn! We had fun chatting AND she helped me understand my technology-advanced Rent-A-Car. Aren’t we cute?
Ok, so seriously, my car is almost 8 years old and this little Rent-A-Ford had so many cool new gadgets in it! It was fun to drive but next time, I’m getting a bigger car. Big girls need big cars. End of discussion!
After our late lunch and a crash course in syncing my phone to my rental car, it was time for me to head out to the conference hotel. The location was about an hour away but with my navigator talking me through, I was in good hands. Hello, Arizona Highways!
So, why go to a blogging conference that wasn’t fully focused on food, when both my blog and work are fully focused on food? Excellent question! I was attracted to the line-up of excellent speakers and the topics for the different sessions were all about growing your business and growing yourself as a human. Those are lessons that transcend blogging! And, the fact the location was gorgeous, didn’t hurt either.
The blogging conference was at Windmill Winery, a popular wedding venue in Arizona. Most of the sessions and meals were held in The Barn, but we had breakout sessions all over the property, with plenty of time to explore the grounds and play a quick game of chess!
And of course, you can’t go to a winery and not have a glass of wine. Or in this case, a glass of Pomegranate Sangria while watching the sunset. Ahhhhh…
If you thought life was all play and no work, here is the “behind-the-scenes” reality photo of blogging/writing from a hotel room.
Exciting, right?
I’m still processing everything I learned at Blended. I have pages and pages of notes on how to be a better blogger, business woman and person. As always, you can follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest to see how I’m doing! I’m happy to share this journey with you!
Until next time, friends!
Much love and deliciousness,
Sara
P.S. This is what I do when I’m bored at the Airport… Snapchat filter my selfies. I’m telling you, life is exciting when you travel alone!
What fun! Love that chess game with wine and beer bottles – so clever.
I can’t wait to hear about what you learned. :)
All of your pictures are so gorgeous! I’m sad I missed this! Next time….
Thanks Natalie! Looking forward to going to a conference (or just lunch) with you very soon!