The Oklahoma International Pageants

In all of the hubbub about my things getting stolen, I never posted about the wonderful contestants and their families! The ladies were unbelievable. Oklahoma International has an incredible sisterhood and the most amazing camaraderie. Every woman did her best, every woman benefited from the program, and every person grew through their involvement. For my opportunity to serve I am eternally grateful.

At the end of the night, Rachel Roberts, Mrs. Tulsa 2009, was selected as the new Mrs. Oklahoma International! Her response to her on-stage question gave me goosebumps. She is a natural, sincere, lovely woman with a message to share about postpartum depression. She is an excellent Mrs. Oklahoma already -- Rachel, welcome to our sisterhood! Rachel has such a big heart and I'm thrilled that she will represent Oklahoma! The first runner-up was the lovely Sherri Stewart. I honestly thought Sherri was going to win last year (the year I won!). Sherri has such personality! She is a fun, real, down-to-earth and beautiful woman spreading awareness of heart disease and stroke. The remaining contestants were just as beautiful and accomplished, and I feel honored to have had the chance to get to know them and learn about their diverse platforms. I know that the volunteerism will continue as each woman continues to promote her cause using her local title throughout the rest of the year.

The new Miss Oklahoma International is Caitlyn Taylor! What a beauty -- and another with a hilarious sense of humor! She had all of us cracking up backstage with her jokes about being a pretty, thin, blonde meteorology major. Her platform is Storm Ready. You have to listen to her talk about the weather -- She is a passionate young woman and she knows her stuff. Like all of the contestants, Cat shows that beauty and brains can come in the same package! Her first runner-up was Nicole Wray.

The new Miss Teen Oklahoma International is Lyndzee Vieweg. Lyndzee is stunning, with a passion for educating others and increasing funding for Lupus. She is another with a phenomenal sense of humor and a hugely generous spirit! She helped me with my stage make-up for the state Teen pageant last year.

The new Miss Junior Teen Oklahoma International is Summer Stolz. Summer is a beauty with excellent public speaking skills and a kindness and maturity that goes beyond her 10-12 years. This lovely young lady was very kind to me after the pageant. Hearing the kind words of this precious little girl meant so much to me.

Each of the contestants could have represented our state beautifully, but only four could take home their respective titles and all of the responsibilities and honors that come with them. Congratulations to every contestant for a job well done! I wish you the best of luck in all of your endeavors! Please keep in touch! Let your light shine!