She Says: More Summit Reflections
Hey Everyone, Have you been enjoying Mark’s food journal this week? He really should eat more regular meals, so this vacation is a good opportunity to start that.
Now that the Summit is over I finally had a chance to decide what to do about that wonderful trip to California I mentioned last week. I read all the comments and emails I received offering me advice and thought about what to do. I realized that during the Summit when asked what makes me happy I answered that I was looking forward to starting my new teaching job and finally having my own classroom. I love blogging and it’s been more than I ever thought it would be to me, but teaching is my new job; one that I left a lucrative and prestigious career to begin. I owe it to myself and my students to do everything as well as I possibly can. Perhaps it is not a huge deal to ask for three days off, but I personally do not want my first impression to be asking for something like this. I know the California trip is an amazing opportunity and I can only hope that the company and others will keep me in mind for future endeavors.
I had a delicious bowl of oats this morning. That was fun. In the bowl is Oats, Chia Seeds, Ground Flax Seeds and Barney Butter.
It was really yummy.
The Chia Seeds are from Greens+ and remember, if you want to sample Greens+ Chia Seeds and/or Greens+ Powder, simply email Diane at diane@greensplus.com and let her know you are a Hangry Pants reader who would like the free samples.
More Summit Reflections from Me.
Two of my best friends in the world were scared of me when we were in high school. This was shocking to find out almost a year after we became friends. Growing up I was painfully shy. I would not even go to dance class unless my sister sat outside the room. This shyness combined with my inability to smile on cue leads others to perceive me as intimidating or snobby. On the one hand, this makes me chuckle because it is so far from the truth, but on the other hand, it’s also frustrating because it’s so far from the truth.
In reading some opinions on the Summit I was a little surprised to read that some viewed the planners as full of themselves or elitist. I am just a regular person who is going to be a 4th grade teacher and has a blog. I am not obsessed with myself nor do I think I am a celebrity. I was convinced at the cocktail party that most attendees had no idea who I was. Anyway, it’s just a lesson in PR I guess.
I encourage everyone to continue giving honest feedback on the Summit. Things like having the agenda set before selling tickets, having simultaneous panels and more varied speakers are all great, helpful suggestions for us that will help us plan an even better Summit next year.
Tags: barney butter, chia, healthy living summit, oats
August 18th, 2009 at 10:43 am
For what it’s worth, I think you made the right decision.
Another thing…I watched the Summit via livestreaming. I enjoyed hearing what everyone had to say, however I felt myself drawn more to you and the way you shared your experiences and knowledge. For me, it looked like you had the kind of balance in life that I desire for myself – you are open to trying new items, lean towards whole organic grains, fruits and veg, but you aren’t opposed to poultry on occassion. I think you presented yourself in a very classy manner but still had a touch of humility. You were also down to earth when it came to discussions about running and yoga. I appreciated that so much because even though I’m not in form to begin those activities now…it will be doing them in the future.
August 18th, 2009 at 10:43 am
It’s funny that you mention people thinking you’re a snob because you’re shy. I get told the exact same thing! I’m the furthest thing from a snob and love meeting new people. I just feel very awkward in social situations and need time to warm up. It’s nice to know others feel the same way
I think you should follow your dreams and there will always be more conferences to go to, it’s not worth burning a bridge in your career.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:02 am
It’s so funny that you said that you are perceived as being a snob because you are shy. I have gotten that in the past a lot, so I make extra effort to speak to people and get to know them, even if it does not come natural to me. I did not notice any of the planners coming across as a snob or unfriendly. I was really glad to see that you were all just normal girls who were really friendly and kind. The summit was a great experience, and something completely out of my ‘comfort zone’. It was totally unlike me to hop on a plane and spend a weekend with strangers. I am so glad I did, because I made so many new friends!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:05 am
Ok, I was there…and I didn’t feel like you guys were being elitist. I think that as the organizers, you have a certain role to play. If people viewed this as elitist, that’s probably their issue and not yours as the organizers. People have to understand that when you plan an event of that sort, and you are doing all sorts of behind-the-scenes things, it’s impossible to personally greet and chat with everyone.
It’s sort of like attending your own wedding…you mingle and chat with whomever puts themselves in front of you, but you aren’t able to make everyone feel special and noticed. That’s just the way it goes.
In addition, (as if I haven’t already said enough), have the attendees who are making these comments ever considered that even though you guys organized the event, that doesn’t make you instantly comfortable with the whole situation? You are not professional event planners, public speakers, or motivational spokespeople. I’m sure that all of you were overwhelmed and intimidated by the large crowd and the size of the event and the number of people involved.
You ladies did an awesome job. I was there, and I loved it.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:06 am
I agree that you made the right decision with your career/conference!
I have the same problem with people thinking I’m a snob when they meet me in person because I don’t warm up to people very quickly. It’s rough for us shy people!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:08 am
I get the shy=snobby thing too! Several of my closest friends all said that they thought I was a total b*tch when they first met me b/c I don’t smile very often. (It hurts my face to go around grinning all day.)
August 18th, 2009 at 11:16 am
i want to point out that the % of negative comments is very small and that is (unfortuantely) expected with blogging.
also, i think its sad that a few people are assuming the worst about us based on our actions when they had no background knowledge. if i didnt get a chance to talk to you, its probably because i was running my ass off to make this event happen. if a speaker didn’t interest you, its highly likely we tried to get that speaker and couldn’t. we were restricted from doing certain things based on the room and our sponsors. i just think its sad (and catty) that a very small % of people are assuming the worst. i like the constructive criticism, because it will make for a better summit next year.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:16 am
Well said! My bf from high school was scared of me too! She actually hid in her sister’s car when I walked by once. I guess I come off as snobby, but I’m really just shy and awkward, which is why I am better as a blogger!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:19 am
Congrats on the teaching job. I am going to school to get my teaching credential. (required in California) So I know how great you must feel to have this job! I think you made the right choice!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:24 am
Congrats on a good decision!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:27 am
I get really worried that people might think I’m stuck up or similar just because I’m shy too. But I think I’m getting better (hopefully!).
The Summit sounds like it was just a really good experience all around.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:31 am
I’m a shy one too!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:32 am
I was not there but watched/listened to a good portion of it on the live stream while I baked. I enjoyed it. There were some speakers I liked better than others but overall I was very impressed with what all of you did.
I do have to comment on the fact that women can be so catty and judgmental of each other. Women are so much harder on each other and I just don’t get it…but I am not going to deny that I have probably been guilty of doing that myself. Is it our nature? Maybe, and that is too bad.
On another note, I have had years of people telling me that I appear unapproachable. I used to really be bothered by that judgment. Probably since my mid 30’s I could give a rat’s a$$. If you think I am unapproachable than that is your problem and I probably don’t want to talk to you anyway.
You cannot please everyone all the time. But please the ones that you want to and the people that you want to be around. Don’t waste your precious energy on the “haters”.
You did good…you should be proud.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:40 am
You made the right decision Heather, now go be a kick ass 4th grade teacher! These kids will remember you for the rest of their lives, have fun with it
I’m a pretty shy person myself. Growing up I don’t think I’d have any friends if it wasn’t for my sister. She is a year older than me but got kept back so we were in the same grade all through school. When we switched schools in high school I clung to her and made friends through her. I was a good/bad thing having the same group of friends, but we always got along (well maybe not always, but…you know). Even now I sometimes use her as my “crutch” in social situations. She is so much more outgoing and bubbly than me, and she smiles non-stop. I on the other hand, don’t. I know I come across as snobby or stuck up, but I’m so not. Just because I don’t smile 24/7 does not mean I’m unhappy/mad/sad/miserable. Do you ever get people (mostly older men for me) telling you to smile? It drives me crazy. I’m sorry I just…don’t smile…as often as I should I guess. It’s not like I have a puss on my face when I meet new people or say hello to someone, but it’s gotten to the point where I ask myself “did I smile when I said hi?” and I kind of freak out about it, what the other persom might think if I didn’t.
Wow, I guess I had to get that off my chest!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:45 am
can we also talk about how sad it is that some people are commenting there were “too many females” in one room? how sad is it that other women don’t want to hang out with supportive and friendly women?
August 18th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Wow….I didn’t realize so many bloggers were so shy! I have several friends who get the same assumption because they are shy, and that is too bad. I can easily tell from your writing that you’re very down to earth and humble, and you seem ANYTHING but snotty.
I think you’ll go into teaching this year with a good heart after that decision. I probably would have done the same thing, although it’s always difficult to not think, “What if?” However, you are very talented and I know many more wonderful blogging opportunities will come your way!
August 18th, 2009 at 11:49 am
Caitlin, I really think that’s a good point. I think valuable constructive criticism does not come off as snarky. There is no need to cut down someone else’s flower to make yours look taller!!!!
Holly, I think it’s interesting as well. I think for me, I am less shy when writing. I can take my time and be as thoughtful as I want, which is not something I can do in a public situation.
August 18th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Heather I <3 you! You are an amazing person an dI was so glad I got to finally meet you face to face. I felt like I wa smeeting my best friend in person! You are going to be a kick ass teacher!
August 18th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
i love seeing all the different reviews and thoughts on the summit, from attendees, speakers, and the planning committee. I think this is a great way to learn from this year and just make next years better!
I think you’re going to be an awesome teacher – there will always be more conferences, but you can tell how excited you are for this job this year, so maybe it’s just not the right time. many more opportunities will come
August 18th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
I think you made a good decision. I’m sure more opportunities will come your way for sure! In the mean time, i know you’ll be a great teacher, you seem like such a sweetie!!!!!!
August 18th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
I definitely would have been overwhelmed by going! I am pretty much the same way with new people, shy, not wanting to look like a dork.. but instead i look snobby by not saying anything!
its hard to take on a huge conference like that with no experience in event planning so i give major props to you Heather and the others for doing that!
one thing i can say is that what would have caused me some distress is the way i relate to others- in terms of working out habits, eating habits, and general life habits…
im light years away from learning how to eat intuitively or learn how to refuse dessert when im stuffed to the brim from regular food. or getting my butt up out of bed to run when its just so darn comfy under the covers! i guess its my reflection of myself- im “weaker” than the other bloggers and wouldnt feel comfortable chowing down a giant meal or picking the greasiest stuff to eat over the salad (i hate salad.. have i mentioned that?) So would I have spent the entire weekend agonizing over my food choices and comparing myself to the more … how can i put it… healthy bloggers?
im not sure if any of this is making sense, but i guess if a person has a hard time relating to most of the people in the room; its harder to enjoy the whole process..
dont want to sound like a d-bag- just my overall opinion!
but it seems like some of us are painfully shy in public- hence the reason why we blog- unleash our inner “Sascha Fierce” without having to go pantiless with a dress on a windy day.
August 18th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
hey girl,
even though part of me is selfish and wanted you to go to cali so we could hang out, you made the right decision for you and i definitely hope we get to meet sometime soon!
the pilot promised another ny trip in the winter/spring, so maybe then
have a great day!
August 18th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
I think that you made the right decision! There will be more opportunities with the blog to come.
Thanks for the yoga recommendations yesterday! They are awesome.
August 18th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
Glad you are following your heart Heather!
I feel your pain actually – I’ve had people tell me the same thing. My close friends now all say I could charm the pants off anyone – but I’ve had alot of people be like “OMG I thought you were such a bitch when i first met you” – it hurts my feelings but i have to laugh at the same time.
I’m sad I wasn’t in Boston because I didn’t get to meet you and Rose! I would have known who you were
Thanks for always being honest and down to earth!
August 18th, 2009 at 12:23 pm
Hey haters – jealous much?
Obviously, those people don’t read your (or the other planners’) blogs very often because even if yours is not their favorite, I would be hard pressed to consider y’all “elitists.” And as long as we’re talking about the Summit, I suggest Portland for next year. Just sayin’!
August 18th, 2009 at 12:34 pm
Amy (love your name btw!)
I can identify with you. I too would have been worried about the amount or type of food I was eating vs what others were having. Why do we find it necessary to compare ourselves to others?? Seriously…our body types are all so different. When did it become okay to criticize ourselves into trying to become just like ’so and so’? And why the heck is it okay to criticize others(no one posting on this thread) for their lifestyle choice? Sad indeed.
At the same time though, I would have been so happy to go for a walk/run with other women who were like-minded and excited to do those activities with other women. Everyone looked like they were having a good time just being around other people that share similar goals. Happy and healthy
August 18th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Great post and comments, very insightful and non-aggressive! I’m soooo bummed I didn’t go after reading all of you recaps and seeing the pics
But happy there will be another! Any chance it will be in Boston again?? haha since I’m moving!
Also I respect your decision and reasons for foregoing the CA trip. I am SUPER bummed if u were coming to LA, but I think your reasons are well thought out and show your commitment to your new job that will be soooo rewarding. Good luck Heather I can’t wait to hear funny teacher stories
August 18th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Heather, I watched some of the Summit and have read your blog for awhile now. I think you come across as the farthest thing from an elitist. Watching you speak, confirmed this even more. You seem like an incredibly approachable and down to earth lady, which is a great way to be!!!
Everyone is entitled to their opinions, it is inevitable that some people are going to judge you all (the organizing committee) as a whole, rather than individuals.
Best to you, Heather!!!
August 18th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
Good for you, Heather, for making a decision that you feel is wise. You are making the right one.
As for everyone else’s opinions on the committee (and everyone is entitled to their own, as a previous commenter said), I completely disagree. I never once felt that the committee came across as elitist or full of themselves. You can’t make everyone happy; you guys did a great job.
August 18th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
I think that your overall decision to commit yourself 100% to teaching was a good one
I wasn’t at the HLS so I can’t comment on you all acting elitist or not, but what people perceive is just that … a perception! You all have very frequently visited blogs, so you are more well-known. If that causes someone to believe that you are a “celebrity” or “better than others”, then that is their personal beef that they’ll just have to deal with. All of you guys seem so sweet, and the hard work that you put into the summit should be applauded!!
August 18th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
I’m with Andrea on Portland next year!
August 18th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
RE: caitlin,
i think thats exactly the kind of attitude commenters are talking about. someone who appreciates constructive criticism would take all comments, positive OR negative, in stride and use them as fuel for improvement. everyone (including yourself) is entitled to their opinion, i just think its rather rude to dismiss things some bloggers say as “catty” or “sad” when they’re just expressing how they feel. what they say may or may not be true, but its no reason to put people down for how they think and/or feel. use negative comments productively-don’t lash back just because you think they’re wrong.. maybe instead you could be nicer and prove them wrong.
August 18th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
I just came here in this space to say that meeting you was one of my most favorite things ever.
I can be shy too. I am not super smiley at times either. So I can most definitely relate. I learned a lot about myself this weekend too.
August 18th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
RE: sheila
i said in my first comment that i like constructive criticism. we HAVE taken constructive criticism/comments in stride – i have commented on SO many reviews of the summit that i appreciate their opinion and have written them down in my Summit 2010 notebook (seriously).
there is a difference between constructive criticism and untrue/underinformed criticism. like, for example, one girl was upset because the buffet wasn’t entirely vegan — but the summit was sponsored by a yogurt company. or people saying that certain committee members “ignored” them (like on purpose??) when clearly we were just running around trying to put on this event.
i struggle to respond to anything on here because i feel like my words will be twisted. its like my first comment wasn’t even read over, just skimmed. again, i said: “i just think its sad (and catty) that a very small % of people are assuming the worst. i do like the constructive criticism, because it will make for a better summit next year.”
August 18th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
I think you made the right choice. You don’t want to go to the conference and feel guilty the whole time. A few days after I started my job, I had to ask fro two days off to run the marathon i had been training and fundraising for over the last five months, fortunately, my boss was cool about it, but I think it was a unique situation where I didn’t have much responsibility yet.
August 18th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Heather,
I did not find y’all stuck up in any way.
Being a shy person myself I know exactly what you mean and how you feel. I enjoyed watching the Summit via live streaming and I think y’all did a great job individually!! I really would love to attend next year
And, I think you are making the right decision about not going to California. I have one year left and I graduate in May and then I will be a teacher with you dear!
I hope you have a great day, love!
August 18th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
RE: caitlin
i actually did read (not skim) both your comments-thats what motivated me to reply to them. maybe its because its the internet and its hard to “say” things in a sarcastic manner and you meant your comments sarcastically? i don’t know-i just think that your comments were very demeaning which would cause people to percieve you as having an “attitude”. i mean, thats how it came across to me. and i don’t think there’s such a thing as “untrue/underinformed criticism”. someone can be upset if the buffet wasn’t totally vegan, just as someone can feel as though they were “ignored”. i think the best way to respond to “untrue/underinformed criticism” is to thank the person(s) for their opinion(s) and move on. after all, they did PAY for their experience. if they weren’t happy, they have a right to say so.
August 18th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
you are such a stand up lady Heather. I am proud to call you my friend!
August 18th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Glad you came to a decision – I know it was tough, but I think you did the right thing.
I’ve always been perceived as snobby/bitchy too because I’m an introvert. Once I get to know someone and feel comfortable, I’m talkative and outgoing but until something breaks the ice then I guess I seem like a cold-hearted witch, which sucks, but I can’t be miss smileyface 100% of the time.
I’ve learned that no matter what you do and no matter how hard you try to please yourself and others, there’s always going to be negativity somewhere. That’s just life, I suppose. It appears the HLS was quite the success from what I’ve seen/read around the blogworld, so congrats to all of you!
August 18th, 2009 at 5:58 pm
XOXO Heather! Loved reading all of your posts
August 18th, 2009 at 6:29 pm
Okay, first, I’m happy you reached a decision on the California trip! I bet it was really hard, but I also bet it’s the right one. Well, I guess there is no “right” decision, but it’s at least refreshing to find someone who is so dedicated and passionate about their job
Secondly, I’m really shy too and often told that other’s first impressions of me are that I’m snobby!! I also try to be a really nice and friendly person, so I’m always taken aback when people say that! It just takes me a while to warm up I guess, so people misread that as being cold. Aaaanyways, I totally understand, and from reading your blog, I think you seem like a dollface
August 18th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
What? Someone said the Big 6 was full of themselves? Elitists? OK, it’s been confirmed. People do have something negative to say about everything. I never thought that at all. You ladies were all friendly, pleasant and downright awesome. ‘Whatever’ I say! I guess everyone has an opinion. You’re going to be a great teacher! Best of luck to you, Heather!
August 18th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
I would love to know where the term “Big 6″ even came from????? I’m serious. If anyone can tell me, but doesn’t want to comment, just email me at hangrypants@gmail.com.
August 18th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
RE: Amy Jo Go
i think comparing ourselves to other people is the norm these days. as a reality it sucks- but it is what it is. people have been doing it forever and unfortunately its EASIER to do when our lives are splashed out online for all to see. You know how jealous I was of the people who did the salad challenge with Leng over at Fat Cat Who Created A Veg? I wouldnt be able to do a salad everyday for a week much less a month! Im still envious of people who post 3 times a day.. where do i find that time!?!? and dang it, what i wouldnt give for Gliding Calm’s abs or Megahn or Kaths motivation to get my ass up and workout at 5 am?
but do i not like them? no, i believe they must be perfectly fine in real life other wise we’d have a bunch of posts about how awful they really are in real life.. lol ; )
I may not find ANYTHING at all i can relate to on the blogs i read.. but i keep reading.. i think its fascinating to be able to see other people work their life and fitness goals. and thats the bottom line.
Their life is not mine. Im sure you wouldnt catch some girls who blog- dead in my house on any given night chowing down fries and sitting on their butts watching the boob tube with me!
but i aint showin’ up at your crib with a bullhorn on a saturday morning to get you up for boot camp either!!!!
Heather…. im sorry im rambling on and on here.. just tell me to knock it off!
August 18th, 2009 at 9:53 pm
HEATHER!! I loved meeting you this weekend. I wish we would have had more time to talk and chill so you could knock some sense into me.
And I know this sounds creepy, but when I was hugging goodbye I didn’t want to stop! LOL
I have gotten the shy = snobby thing my whole life. It sucks. But I definitely don’t think you or the other girls were snobby at all! People need to realize that A. this was the first time ANY of you had done something like this and B. just because we were all in Boston didn’t mean all the work was done and the 6 of you got to just kick back.
Anyway, you are amazing and you know it. I’m glad I got to meet you and will be in touch!! *hugs* ♥
August 18th, 2009 at 11:34 pm
What?! I can’t believe people thought the planners were “elitist.” You all were nothing but kind! Perhaps I feel this way because I am much like you–I am quite shy sometimes, and people often perceive my reserved nature as being snobby. So, I guess what I’m saying is, I feel your pain, and rest assured that I know how awesome you are:)
August 19th, 2009 at 12:09 am
Hi Heather, I’ve been reading recaps of the Healthy Living Summit weekend and want to congratulate you on a job well done! It looks like it was an amazing weekend that would not have been possible without all the hard work the six of you put into the planning and organizing of the event. Great job!
August 19th, 2009 at 2:56 am
Hi Heather,
As you know I wasn’t at the Summit, but I just wanted to say that you seem like one of the most down-to-Earth, kind, approachable bloggers out there from my limited interactions with you. I have no idea about the rest of the summit or what happened, but I know that about you and I hope none of the feedback made you question yourself.
I hugely respect the decision you made with teaching…it only furthers my point
August 19th, 2009 at 7:46 am
I (sadly) was not at the summit, but it’s possible that we think of you gals as such celebrities that that could be affecting everyone else’s view.
August 19th, 2009 at 10:26 am
oh my gosh, i really don’t know what’s up with people sometimes, but i, too, am shy, and was just thinking that while I tried to be a bit better, i’m sure i could’ve met a few more people at the summit.
glad the decision was easy for you (teaching vs. the opportunity)
August 19th, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Yay, I’m so glad you made a decision that you are happy with. It was definitely a tough call but I know you made the right choice.
As for the summit, if it helps I thought you were even sweeter in real life than I could have imagined!