On this cold snowy 'spring' day in Blacksburg I thought I better reflect on the awesome conference vacation that I took last week in Orlando. It was in the 80s and the sun was shining. The combination of vitamin D and good friends was nourishment for my soul. Our national association for Student Affairs professionals has an annual conference that our family usually attends together. My dad joined us in Philly in 2011 to hang with Heath and both of my parents joined us in Phoenix in 2012. This year the calendar and finances just worked out for us to split this trip up and have Heath stay home with Jonathan. My parents and us have both been blessed with home purchasing this year, which is wonderful, but doesn't allow for extra plane tickets. Jonathan will go to ACUHO-I this summer in Minnesota for Housing Professionals to get his conference fill.
So traveling solo, I had a three night break to sleep alone in a hotel room, it was nice. I skyped with my boys once a day and gave virtual hugs. I felt refreshed by the conference sessions and stimulating my learning and reflecting for a few days (more posts in store on that one). What I appreciate most about these conferences is getting to reconnect with colleagues and friends.
My friend Jessica drove up from Tampa to spend time with me over dinner. I miss working alongside this lady and her positivity. I wish our conversation didn't have to end. My whole being just felt encouraged after our time together. Not only does Jess have the best smile, she also gives the best hugs!
Not pictured, but I got to run into my friend Justin (also from Arkansas days). What a great surprise to see him there and like Jess, fills my positivity and woo bucket!
And then of course there is my cohort- or my tribe as some say. Not featured in this pic was also Katie T! We were missing a few NASPA regulars this year, but got to enjoy a good dinner out and a group sic 'em at Universal City Walk. I am grateful to have such supportive colleagues and friends from grad school. I always enjoy catching up!
Conferencing also allows for a new space to connect with current VT colleagues. I enjoyed a dinner out with all of them and getting to travel with some through the airport too.
It was a great time in Orlando. I wasn't ready to return to the cold and gray, but I was ready to come back to my boys.
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| Heath & Mamma my first night home |
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