A Week Full of Memories
It was Monday, July 16th when I arrived with my
directors to Skokie, IL., feeling very calm, relaxed and thrilled to get the
show on the road and participate in the Mrs. International pageant! However, Tuesday morning I felt much different.
As soon as I awoke I began questioning myself and the reason I was there. “What
am I doing here? Am I right for this competition? What do I do!?” All of this
seemed almost foreign to me. But thankfully, all of my concerns were put to
ease the moment I began making connections with the other contestants. I
realized at orientation that this was going to be a week of purpose, memories,
prayer and an incredible amount of affirmation. Nearly immediately, I was blessed to become
friends with the other contestants while touring Chicago on a fairy, eating
meals, and of course rehearsing for hours.
Time flew by, it was Thursday already and the private
interviews were first on the judge’s list. As experienced at the state pageant,
I was honored to be a part of a system that openly shares a strong faith. I held hands with my director Allison while
she gave a personal, encouraging prayer. This was followed by our interview
group holding hands in the same manner while the national director Mary
Richardson lead another meaningful prayer. God was with me and I walked in the
interview room more excited than anything. I was excited to share the content
of why I was there and the meaning behind my Mrs. North Dakota International
crown. I discussed the sole purpose why I entered the state pageant in the
first place, which was to educate others about the importance of teaching their
children, empower parents to be involved in their child’s life through personal
interaction and raise awareness about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
It felt like I blinked and it was already time to announce
the Top 16. My heart was beating fast with anticipation, but I smiled to my
family in the audience. I knew I gave everything 110%, from pouring out my heart
and passion in the private interviews, dancing to the incredibly fun opening
number, strutting my stuff in the fitness round in prelims, to the moment I
shared with my handsome husband onstage for evening gown. I did not hear my
name being called but watched as the amazing women who made Top 16 walked
toward the front of the stage. What a phenomenal accomplishment and all were extremely
deserving to move on to finals. I was proud to stand behind women who have such
inspiring and personal stories, which motivated them to promote powerful
platforms, and are already making a difference in the lives of so many
nationally and internationally. A big congratulations to my roommate Mrs.
Minnesota Sarah Bazey who was crowned as our Mrs. International 2012. I believe
that the perfect Mrs. was chosen. She is the definition of strength,
inspiration and beauty and I am looking forward to hearing about the many lives
she will touch during her reign.
When looking back at the week, I can’t help but say that one
of my favorite memories was sharing this experience with my family and close
friends who were able to make it. They were the most positive supportive system
anyone could ask for. Although they were there for me, their enthusiasm and
support for others showed as they cheered on many of the contestants onstage,
captured pictures with them and shared their love through many hugs and
conversations. I felt that not only did the contestants get to know me, but I
was so proud to show off my family
and friends so others were able to see a glimpse of how blessed I am. Thank you
so much for being there and thank you to all of you here at home who showed
your support through texts, phone calls, letters, messages and genuine
excitement. I am so blessed!
Although I did not walk away from last week as Mrs.
International 2012, I left with invaluable memories, wonderful friends from
around the world and experiences that I know I would have never gotten the
chance to experience. And along the way,
I was able to bring more awareness and education to others about my
organization, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. I can honestly say that
this experience is going down in my history books as one of the most incredible
times of my life. I have absolutely no regrets as I know that through everything I stayed true to all that I stand for
and represented myself, my family, the state of North Dakota the best I knew
how.
Forever yours as Mrs. North Dakota International 2012,
Ashley Voigt
