In her own words: I’m SO EXCITED….

Over the last month or so, we gave the contestants the opportunity to participate in two viewing parties. Showing the Mrs. International pageant is a perfect example of what contestants can expect at the state competition in March. Hopefully, they were able to walk away with a true understanding of what is expected of them and what to expect for the Mrs. Oklahoma International 2011 pageant weekend.

While at the viewing parties, I had the opportunity to talk to the contestants and I am so excited about their passion and their participation. It is truly amazing what these contestants are doing in their communities and being a positive role models to all. They are all winners in my book!

I, also, had the opportunity to convey this message. I am new to the pageant world. I don’t know much else about other pageant systems, etc – I can only speak of the International system. But, from that experience, I know this…deep down inside, something tells me that this pageant system is different. It really is a program that is focused on showcasing women with a story, women with passion, and women who are doing everything they can to make positive changes in this world. 

The actual “pageant part” of this whole experience is such a small piece of the big picture. The bigger picture is the International system is a stepping stone for that woman to share her story and create awareness. It’s the friendships that you make and the people that you meet that make you want to cherish every moment of this adventure. It’s exploring your community and your state and finding out what people are doing to make your community and state a better place. It’s the “sisterhood” and the sense of family that is created within the International system. It’s such a unique and exciting experience for that woman that is passionate about a cause and wants to share her story. Being “on stage” is just a piece of the whole experience! 

I wanted to convey that to the contestants, as well as any possible contestants that may be reading this. Being part of the International system is so much more than “being in a pageant” or being a “pageant girl”.  If you don’t think you can do the “pageant thing”, you can! I didn’t think I could and I did it! It was worth it to me to step out of my comfort zone for my passion for a cause. It was worth it to me to participate in the “pageant” in order to experience the “whole picture” of this opportunity.

So, for you “possible” contestants out there, you CAN do it! And, there is still time to enter for the Mrs. Oklahoma International 2011 pageant as the deadline is February 6^th!

I have cherished every moment of my Mrs. Oklahoma International 2010 journey…and I’m SO EXCITED that another lucky woman will get to share in a very similar journey for 2011!

Heidi