Magic in Mesa

Last weekend I attended a Single Adult conference in Mesa. None of my single friends were available to go with me, so I went alone. However, I met some really great people there. I am always surprised at how many truly amazing, friendly people I meet.

I arrived shortly before the afternoon fireside. I stood outside the church building talking on my cell phone when a couple pulled up to the curb and got out. The gentleman began unloading things from the trunk while the lady walked right up to me and shook my hand. I was surprised, because I was on the phone and I didn't know her. It turns out she was the speaker, Kristen M. Oaks, wife of Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles! We talked for a few minutes and then they entered the building.

After my call was completed, I entered the building and went to the chapel. Sister Oaks was on the stand preparing for her talk. The gentleman was sitting alone in the middle of the chapel. Since I didn't know anyone there, I figured we could be alone together so I sat by him. It turns out his wife and Sister Oaks are cousins. Sister Oaks was staying with them. We chatted on and off for about 30 minutes as the chapel filled.

Right before the fireside began, the gentleman's wife and daughters arrived. His wife sat between us and chatted with me immediately like we were old friends. We chatted some more after the fireside. I mentioned that I wanted to go to the church bookstore a few blocks away and buy Sister Oaks's new book. Her cousin insisted on sending me a copy. She took down my name and address and said I will have the book within the week. Amazing lady! I met her children and grandchildren after the fireside. She introduced me to them like we had known each other for years.

After the fireside, there was a goofy olympics event. They planned events like riding scooters, jumping on a pogo stick, playing water volleyball, and playing a twisted version of kickball. The kicking team had to wear unusual footwear, like clown shoes, big animal-shaped slippers, and swimming flippers. The team in the field had to wear boxing gloves, socks, and other items that would make it harder for them to catch and throw the ball. It was pretty funny to watch someone run around the bases while wearing big, floppy yellow flippers.

The dinner that night was followed by a magic show by Craig Davis. He came by our table before dinner and spent 15 minutes doing card tricks. He was really good, and extremely funny. His magic show was so much fun! The magic show was followed by a dance.

I was a bit nervous about going to these events alone. I find comfort in having someone I know with me. However, I met some really wonderful people and exchanged phone numbers and e-mail addresses with several ladies I met there. I am so proud of myself for stepping outside my comfort zone.