Memorial Day 2011

As I remember my father who passed much too young I feel blessed to recall those special moments that truly shaped the woman I am today.

On our way back from Moses Lake we stopped in my hometown Othello to pay tribute to those memories and thank other veterans who have sacrified so much. 

If you are ever in the neighborhood please swing by Beth Hampton Memorial Garden's and visit the veteran's memorial.  The eagles and plaque's are truly breathtaking.

Thank you to all the men and women who have helped keep us safe on this Memorial Day ~

Moses Lake Spring Festival

This weekend I attended the Moses Lake Spring Festival with other Mrs. Washington contestants.  The weekend was spent dancing, laughing, and creating memories. 
We started the weekend performing in the festival's lip sync competition.  Although shivering when we arrived on stage I think we would have made Tina Turner proud. 

I was lucky enough to have the support of my family (especially my sister Janet) to help get me ready and keep my on schedule.  

Sister Janet ~ thank you isn't enough!

Family :)

Saturday we hit McCosh Park and were lucky enough to meet some really amazing people from Moses Lake and surrounding areas.  I can proudly say I was able to sit on the back of a Harley with a Veteran. 

Combat Vet



Me, Yolanda and LaReina

Saturday evening we walked in the parade and were able to hand out candy and meet more of the Moses Lake community.  

Tamara, me, Bethany, and LaReina



The weekend ended on Sunday with a quick stop at Michael's Bistro for coffee and pastries before hitting the road.  Thank you Moses Lake for making us feel so welcome and sharing this special event!

Lilac Parade Adventure

I had the privledge of riding in the 2012 Armed Forces Torchlight Lilac Parade with Amy Clark ~ Mrs. Spokane County, and Anna Hiatt ~ Mrs. Seattle International. We were lucky enough to be escorted by Bo Lively from Porsche Spokane on the back of a Porsche 911, truly a hardship.  Some may think with a starting number of 188 out of apx 200 we drew the short end however I beg to difer.  We had a front row seat and were one of the few entrants that can say they saw the entire parade. 

We met some amazing people and were lucky enough to be placed next to the KHQ gang.  For those of you who know George he is truly a character, on screen and in person.  Thank you all for making the time fly.   Leslie promised no rain and her promise held out just long enough for us to complete the parade route.  It is amazing how quick three queens can move off a Porsche in the rain. 

Thank you also to the other Spokane royalty who joined us for several candid photos and conversations.  Miss Spokane Genay Tucker and Miss Spokane Interstate Rodeo Jamie Cutshall were both beautiful.   Although Jamie traded in her horse for a jaguar the two of them looked amazing.  The Lilac court are truly a group of amazing young women and represent Spokane well. 

While the parade showed off Spokane and the beauty of Riverfront Park the true message of the event was not lost.  There was a hush of silence as family members of fallen soldiers crossed the bridge holding banners dipicting photo's of  fallen soldiers.  Not a dry eye in the group ~ so proud!

As we passed through downtown Spokane I felt  blessed and proud of our amazing city.  The support was truly moving.  I am very lucky to be representing Spokane and look forward to an amazing 2012. 

A busy May 14th

Saturday seemed to come and go in a whirlwind.  We began the day at the Otis Orchards community parade.  I will admit it was bittersweet to realize this may be the last time Mountainview Middle School band will march in a parade.  So proud of the entire group. 

After the parade into the car and headed West to Moses Lake for rehearsal and refreshments.  It was nice to meet a few more of the contestants and the owners of Sporty's, a pageant supporter.   I am looking forward to our production as well as the parade on Saturday night.  Moses Lake is such a wonderful community and the festival really showcases the culture. 

Final stop was a late celebration dinner for our oldest daughter at the Max in Spokane Valley.  Nummy food and amazing service. 

Hoping fun but eventful Saturday will be followed by nice and relaxing Sunday!

Bowl for Kid's Sake

The event Thursday afternoon at Valley Bowl was wonderful.  Thanks to Melissa, the amazing coordinator, along with Darren the CEO for putting this event together and allowing me to be a part of the magic.  I got to meet a big sister (Melissa) and a little sister (Shyla) and witness the impact this organization has on our kids and community.  No frills just pure passion for mentoring the youth in our community.  Even with the technical difficulties Tom Sherry was able to complete the weather remotely and help us raise over $3,000 in two hours!  Friday and Saturday if you get a chance stop by Lilac Lanes and help cheer on the bowlers, buy raffle tickets for great prizes, and maybe even bowl a fame with a Krem celebrity.  All for an amazing cause.

Music in our schools

Currently our Washington State legislature is in special session discussing the budget impact within our schools.  One of the items being discussed is future funding for extra activities including formal music programs within our schools.  Music and the arts are so important to our next generation.  I ask that you take a moment to look at MENC's website focused on what we as community members and parents can do to get involved.  There is truly power in numbers.  Facts surrounding the impact music has on our students can be found on the Washington Music Educators Association website.  Music can make a difference and so can you!

May has officially landed

The first full weekend in May hit with a vengeance.  The Spokane Jr. Lilac parade kicked off our Saturday complete with rain, sun, and wind all within a 5 minute span.  As promised I did my duty and entered the parade route in an attempt to gain pictures as my daughters band came in to view, traveled past us, and then on final shot as they continued on the route.  Yes, that gentleman in the bright yellow shirt and rather interesting pants is the very talented band teacher.  My daughter would be the one in the multi colored pants, black shorts, and purple coat (thank you grandma for making those crazy pants really work). 

This week continues to be busy as the Bowl for Kid's Sake event kicks off on Thursday at Valley Bowl.  I hope you join me in supporting this amazing organization. 

Saturday we are back on the parade route for the Otis Orchards community parade followed by a whirlwind trip to Moses Lake to prepare for our production number over Memorial weekend. 

Stay tuned as it is going to get exciting as we begin the summer and officially kick off pageant preparation. 

Enjoy the sun!