APDT 2010 - Atlanta GA - The BEST EVER!

I tried to express my thanks to everyone in my closing remarks, but was overcome by emotion.

This year's APDT conference was, in my opinion the best one yet.  I cannot find the words to describe my feelings all week.  I slept little, because I didn't want to miss even one moment with my friends- old and new, and all of the members, speakers, APDT staff, Details Details, conference staff, volunteers, vendors, the Board of Directors of both APDT and the APDT Foundation, and all of the attendees.   You all have my endless gratitude for your part in making this the best year ever.  I am deeply honored to be your President at this time.  Many of you approached me and asked how I was able to keep going, I had at least 50 people tell me that I looked so "natural" (I'm still not sure what that means, exactly).  The truth is that I feel like I am right where I should be at this moment in time, and at this moment in time.  I am truly passionate bout the APDT, I have been a member for 12 years and I feel like we're all family.  I love this organization, and I am simply overcome by all of the support and encouragement.  I am able to keep going, and do everything I do because of all of you.

While in Atlanta this past week, I met so many new friends, and I can't wait to see you next year.  I also saw several returning friends from years' past.  This year seemed to be a 'homecoming' for some, and that was truly one of the high points of the week. We seem to be right at a beginning of something big, and I am humbled by your support.  Everyone smiled at me.  While there were a few hiccups during the week for a few individuals, as there inevitably always will be, There were no huge catastrophes and almost all of the comments I received were not just good, but overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic.  

This year, everything was great!  The conference puppies had puppy BINGO and one of them won a trip to next year's conference.  The general membership meeting even had rave reviews, with the prizes given and the jackpot at the end!  There were many new speakers, more workshops than ever, new formats, and tough choices during the breakout sessions.  And the auction...Between the Muddy Paws pins (for $20 or more donation), the live auction, the silent auction and the direct cash donations from several vendors, we raised over $21,000 for the APDT Foundation.  I am simply speechless.  The Friday evening entertainment also received high acclaim, as did movie night, the morning exercise activities, and the night life...I FINALLY got everyone to do Karaoke (with a little help from Trevor, Diana and Chip - Thanks guys).  It was the most fun I've had in quite a while...and I'm still very, very sore from dancing the night away.  Karaoke diner...who would've thunk it?

I had a chance to review the preliminary report on the evaluations, and it seems that I am not the only one who thought the whole week was excellent!  I'm waiting for a (delayed) plane right now on my way home...and I can't wait until next year to see you all again!  The 2011 speaker select meeting took place today, and while we have set the bar oh so high, next year is looking to be pretty awesome too! 

Thanks again, from the deepest part of my being.  I love you all!

~Michelle