My Inspiration: I can still remember quite vividly the day my five year old came home from kindergarten and said, “He wanted to kill himself!” He continued by saying, “I’m just a bad kid, and I don’t want to live anymore.”

• I was completely amazed to hear this, so I asked him what in the world provoked him to say something so extreme.Although he was remiss to respond initially, he finally said, “Because I’m not black like my dad and I’m not white like you.Kids call me brownie and say that I stink!”

• I immediately consoled him, and shared words of wisdom to help get him through this difficult moment. By the same token, however, I was still concerned that he felt that way … I knew, because I’d been there myself.

• It was this very incident; in conjunction with the growing pains I’d experienced myself that compelled me to compete in the Mrs. Minnesota International Pageant as Mrs. Washington County International 2003. My main objective was to pursue my platform issue of ROSE. The pageant merely was a vehicle through which I could propel my message.

• From that day forward, I felt a genuine “calling” to pursue ROSE on a much broader basis.I lived through my own challenges, and now was seeing the adversities and struggles my kids were experiencing as well. I buried a dear friend because of self-esteem issues, and I knew in my heart, I wasn’t about to bury a child for the same foolish reasons. I just had to do something!

Mrs. Minnesota International: The International pageant promotes strong committed marriages and families, so I knew this was the right network to get involved in. The pageant itself showcases the achievements and accomplishments of women whose lives reflect family values. For these reasons, this was a sound microphone for my cause.

• Still being a plus size woman, I knew I was at a disadvantage going into it. Despite the fact that this program is NOT a beauty contest, I had to be real with myself given the fact that 50% of the overall score is comprised of an evening gown and aerobic wear competition. The remaining 50% based on personal interview. I wasn’t being pessimistic, just honest with myself.

• I went into the pageant with confidence and poise, hoping to leave an impressionable and meaningful message behind. I believe I accomplished just that and more. My family and I had a blast! It was an incredible experience – one I’ll never forget.

• My husband left his mark too I think! He composed an incredible “voice over,” and everyone thought he was the next Barry White. After the pageant, people would ask just to hear him talk … I half anticipated an autograph signing session too (ha)!

Activities: As Mrs. Washington County International 2003, my role is to promote my platform issue throughout the community. I have done that through various speaking engagements and by working with schools / churches. I have volunteered my services for charitable organizations and have participated in a local parade.

Winner: Although I did not walk away from the pageant with the Minnesota crown, I did walk away a winner! The experience in itself was far more valuable and rewarding for me than a crown. The crown would have given me the exposure to help circulate my message no doubt, but the wisdom and strength I absorbed far exceeds even that.

Beyond the Pageant: My job doesn’t end when I pass my title. As the founder of ROSE, I will continue to promote my platform far beyond the scope of the pageant and my term as Mrs. Washington County 2003.

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