BlogPaws Conference Jitters

I am a special kind of introvert.  I am an introvert who, days before a lunch date with an old friend, thinks, Oh my god, why did I ever agree to this, I'd rather do literally anything than go out and socialize.  One who hems and haws about whether or not to go on a double date because the other girl is a stranger and meeting new people makes me so very anxious.  I'm an introvert who breaks a sweat at the thought of introducing myself.

But I'm also an introvert who, once back to my room - my husband, my books, my job, my solitude - says, "That was so much fun!  Why don't I do this more often?!"  This is confusing and not very fun for poor Jared, who experiences both pre- and post-event Chelsea, which are nearly polar opposites.

So when it comes to big events like BlogPaws...sigh.  Color me stressed!  I know that I will end up having a great time.  I know I will meet some fantastic people and learn so much more about the pet blogging world.  I know this.  But pre-event Chelsea doesn't seem to know this, and she won't stop worrying! ;)

You might not guess from looking, but I am terrified in this picture.  It was right before a wedding where Jared and I were the guestbook attendants - lots of forced socialization!

Seriously, though, I'm more excited than anything.  Since I've been neglecting the blog lately and trying to get my head on straight, I was worried I wouldn't get as much out of the conference as I might have six months ago.  But I don't think that's true.  And to be honest, this is as much of a getaway for my husband and I as it is a learning experience.  Truthfully, I might be most excited to see all the dogs.  And grab Jared's arm and "Squeeee!" when I see one I recognize from another blog.  (You have not heard squealing until you have heard me around a cute dog.  I apologize in advance.)

I was concerned about getting sick, for sure.  For whatever reason, my "episodes" tend to happen in crowded, public, or embarrassing places (like my first date with my husband, my first day at TWO different jobs, and the biggest shopping mall in the Midwest...), and BlogPaws definitely fits all three criteria.  But I am planning on packing a tote for each day that will have all of the things I need, should I have an issue:  Medications, an ice pack, LOTS of frozen water bottles, packages of salted peanuts, and an iPod full of episodes of The Office.  Plus a super-husband who is well-versed in the art of taking care of his unconscious wife. :D  So I'm crossing my fingers!

Two posts that I have found very helpful so far are:

M. K. Clinton - Packing for a BlogPaws Conference
and
Cat Wisdom 101 - Packing it All In

They both have packing lists plus great tips for attending a conference!

Do you have any jitters when it comes to social situations?  I sure would feel less silly if you shared them with me in the comments ;)  SO looking forward to meeting you all!  I'll be the one jumping up and down and squealing over your adorable dog or cat! ;)