Page 29 - ESA IC News September

ESA Inspiration: My First Convention
Lisa Zachau, Alpha Pi, Queensland

As I arranged for my first IC Convention early last spring, I felt very
excited and well prepared. By the time I arrived on Wednesday,
July 19 , I was a bit overwhelmed. Not only is this my first
th
convention, but my first position on the IC level. What do I do,
March where do I go, am I really prepared for this? July

My concerns began to fade as I settled into my hotel room, then took a stroll to see the layout of my
home for the next few days. As usual, smiling and friendly faces were all around me, though I didn’t
recognize anyone, I knew they had to be my ESA sisters and brothers.

ah-ha! I told myself when I found a sign for registration. I wandered down the Midway but much to my
dismay, I found an empty table. Gee, what do I do now? Not long after my disappointment, yet to my
delight, I heard commotion going on around the corner. It was a sound of a large group of chattering,
squealing, and laughing ladies and gentlemen that was oh so familiar. I think I found what I wasn’t sure I
was looking for.

Everyone was smarlty dressed in costume for the theme of the USO Welcome Party. After hugging and
greeting the now familiar faces, my feel of loss and concern had completely vanished. True to ESA form,
no one is a stranger. Everyone is a friend, welcoming you even with a rediculous and dazed look on your
face.

Sandy had picked a fabulous theme; Inspiration. I felt that exact feeling when I saw my sisters and
brothers. The ones I have met previously during my travels with ESA, never hesitated to give me such a
warm and loving hug. It felt like no time had passed since our departure from each other. The ones I had
communication with through emails and phone calls were equally welcoming, even though some were
having to come up to me and introduce themselves, they still felt like old friends.

ESA members are
who inspire me.
Just when you
may feel a little
lost, they brighten
the way with
friendly faces and
warm hugs.

First time attendees at the 2017 IC Convention in St. Louis, Missouri.

The following pages are a collage that I was able to put together, thanks to
Jerry Hymer, our ESA photographer.

You may still purchase these photos along with many more on his website:
www.jhymerphoto.photoreflect.com. Jerry also has more discs of the 20 Years
of Memories available for purchase. His contact information is:
hymerphotography@msn.com and 405.410.6910

29