JUNE 10, 2006
PAGEANT DAY ARRIVES!
Rehearsals began at 11:30 and we perfected our opening number and walking patterns. We were released late afternoon and had plenty of time to get ready. As I waited with the other ladies for the pageant to begin, I saw some of my closest girlfriends and my family arrive, which was a great boost! The opening number was performed with the live band Bella Diva, and they were awesome! We then competed in State Costume (I was Minnesota's state flower the ladyslipper), followed by Evening Gown and Swimsuit. The Top Ten were then named, and I was called out fifth. Whew! We recompeted in Evening Gown, and followed by the announcement of the Top Five. I was called last for that one, and yes I was pretty nervous! The Top Five then answered the same on-stage question, and while the scores were being tabulated, the reigning queens gave their farewell speeches. Some special awards were announced: Community Service-Sarah Tichich, Mrs. Congeniality-Debi Walter, Evening Gown-myself, Swimsuit-Lindsey Kurhajetz, Photogenic-myself. I was both humbled and thrilled to win these awards! Mrs. Iowa (Katie Scott) and her 1st RU (Laura Diers) were announced, followed by Mrs. WI (Shannon Martin) and her 1st RU (Tracy Steitz). Next up were the Minnesota ladies...4th RU-Sarah Tichich, 3rd RU-Katina Schroeder, 2nd RU-Debi Walter, which meant the last two ladies standing were Lindsey and myself. We both wished each other the best and clutched hands as we waited for the results. Faith Schway (state director and MC) announced Lindsey's name as the 1st runner-up and I realized I was the new Mrs. Minnesota! Shock and joy were the first emotions I recall feeling, then I looked up and saw my husband coming up onto the stage. What an incredible honor! We took many photos on stage and then packed up and headed to the Coronation Party at the Embassy Suites, which was incredible. A fabulous food buffet awaited everyone but I hardly got to eat because I was talking with so many well-wishers. When I finally laid my head on my pillow, I was exhausted but elated! WOW!

PHOTOS:
1) The ladies in blue wait backstage for our opening number (L to R: Chris Arnold, me, Tracy Steitz-a Mrs. WI contestant)
2) Wrapping up swimsuit competition
3) Answering my on-stage question
4) The Top Five await the judges' decision
5) Realization sinks in--we won!
6) With the new Mrs. Iowa (Katie Scott) and Mrs. Wisconsin (Shannon Martin)
7) MN Top Five (L to R): 4th RU-Sarah Tichich, 1st RU-Lindsey Kurhajetz, Me, 2nd RU-Debi Walter, 3rd RU Katina Schroeder
8) Mrs. Minnesota-America 2006...a dream come true!
9) Just before going to bed..."I can't believe I won!"