I just have to start out by saying that I had the best time at the Creative Estates blogging conference this weekend. I went there just knowing of a few bloggers and left with some new friends. There was a ton of networking and a some very inspiring advice from some bloggers with very established blogs.
First, and most importantly, the amazing people I met:

image via Coffee At Three
Clockwise from top row: Aimee from Paging Supermom, Heather from Sweet & Simple, Michele and Lauren from Coffee @ 3, Whitney from Turbo Bubblegum, and lastly myself. I had such a blast getting to know these ladies and many more who I don’t have pictures of. Next year I promise to take more photos.
One of the most important things I took away from the conference was from Char of Crap I’ve Made, who said her motto for this year was “never regret behaving appropriately.” I love that. It’s important to be yourself and share yourself, but don’t share too much. This can be applied on so many levels through out life, not just blogging.
I also learned the importance of social media in relation to blogging. I have been avoiding Facebook like the plague for a couple years now, for a variety of reasons. But I have learned that it is essential in connecting with blog readers on a more personal, day-to-day level. So I am currently working on a Sparkle Facebook page. Will you ‘Like’ me? I also set up a Twitter account, @sparklepantgirl. Twitter is fun, and it’s easy to hold a conversation with others, especially my new friends from Creative Estates.
Coming up I’ll share with you the goods from the swag box and the Handmade Marketplace..





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