On Saturday I met some strangers I found on the internet.
No, really.
Well, okay, not totally really. But kinda sorta really.
If you’d told me 5 years ago that I’d meet ‘real life friends’ over the internet, I’d say you were beyond crazy. After Abby’s rollercoaster welcome to the world, though, something shifted in me. I realized it was okay to open up to people, to ask for help, to use your computer as a way to connect with people– which I know sounds counter-intuitive but in this new landscape of blogging, it’s very much the reality.
Do you feel that way, too? Have you connected with something you read online, or a blogger who thinks similarly to you? Or even if you have nothing in common, have you ever read someone’s blog and thought: I could be friends with her?
Darlene from Fieldstone Hill opened up her home for a (in)rl {in real life} gathering, and I drove out to meet some new friends who’d I’d only known online.
Sixty minutes after walking in the door, this was us:
{and for those of you who are wondering, all of these women are as lovely in person as they are online. As is Fieldstone Hill itself– I’m not one to brag, but… oh yes, I got a tour and it is as spectacular as you’d think it would be!}
Much was discussed, shared, and digested. I feel blessed to now call Amy, Darlene, and Sarah Mae in{rl} friends. It’s that season, I’m going to be meeting many more blog friends over the coming months. I hope we can chat about anything and everything, including the myth of trying ‘to do it all’, staying true to oneself, our life stories and secrets, and being more present in the moment. Oh, and chocolate. 😉 And I can’t wait to give those I meet hugs like old friends, the first time I see them in real life!
Ange says
How fun! I was hoping to attend this as well but we had other plans so it didn’t work out. Looks like you had a great time. I’m looking forward to Haven and meeting some bloggers that I just love to chat with online. Thanks for sharing!
JustHeather says
I haven’t had the chance to meet other bloggers yet, but I have met other online friends who have become IRL friends. In fact, my husband is one of them. 14 years and still going strong.
{darlene} @ fieldstonehill says
Oh, so sweet!!! Carrie, it was just a JOY to meet you and I am so thankful to call you friend. THANK YOU for making the trek, and for opening up your heart to us. I just love ya!
Kelly @ View Along the Way says
Awww SO fun!! I can’t wait to meet some strangers from the internet – less than 2 months til Haven! 🙂
JDaniel4's Mom says
I have been able to meet some people that I met through blogging in person. They were really wonderful.
SocialStudiesSoubrette says
Oh how fun! When Hubs and I were into video games, pre-Little Bit, we drove several states away and went to a lan party. It was so much fun. There are lots of bloggy pals I would love to meet. Maybe one day I will get together enough funds to head to a conference or two ;D
Darla from HeartWork Organizing says
I’m glad to have met YOU online, and now IRL as well!
allenaim photography and design says
It was so lovely meeting you Carrie!! We must get together again and SHOP!