What Nationals Was Like for Me
It’s been awhile! I have been busy representing our
amazing state at a NATIONAL pageant. Charleston, my heart and mind will always
be full of love and memories that will last a life time. Nationals came and
gone in a blink of an eye, and there are no true words to describe this
experience.
I have tried many times in the last several weeks to find
the right words to describe the week. From the amazing women that participate
in the International Pageant System to the community of Charleston, and the
acts of volunteerism we did I am forever branded with the experience of a
lifetime.
Starting my week of nationals several days early my
directors, Janelle and Meg, loaded up into a mini van and started my journey to
share my passion at an International level. God bless Janelle’s heart for
driving the entire way! We made a pit stop at the most beautiful hotel in
Chicago where we were treated like true royalty, nothing short of spectacular.
We made stops in every state from North Dakota to West Virginia to step our two
feet on to a new states ground to get the full experience.
Not even 5 minutes into arriving to Charleston I felt the
hospitality. From red carpets, roses, and a full on police escort Charleston,
West Virginia showed us what it meant to truly to be treated like queens.
During my days during pageant week we did several activities
around town. We participated in yoga on the river along with paddle boarding,
spent time with the girl scouts, had lunch at the boys and girls ranch, and had
breakfast at the ballet. These day outings were full of adventure and really
pushed our limits, because a true queen must be ready for anything. But what
made these long days truly memorable were the women I got to soak this
experience in with. I became close with ladies from Australia, China, Montana,
and New Jersey. These ladies have a heart and soul and a passion for their
platform. It was so inspiring to hear everyone’s “why’s” I know that even
though 47 girls walked away without a crown they’ll still continue to pursue
their goals and dreams for their platforms.
Through this experience I planted seeds for lifelong
relationships as well as deepened relationships with my teen and directors.
Whom I am both forever grateful for. My favorite memories will have roots to
this special week with once in a lifetime opportunities. I’d like to
congratulate Kelsey Craft, our new Miss International 2017, who I know will do
amazing things and will represent us with grace and poise. But lastly I would
like to thank my friends, family, directors, and support system I truly could
not have done it without everyone. The words of encouragement were fuel for my
engine, knowing I was out there representing you all made it easier to take a
risk and pursue my dreams.
Yours truly,
Siam Simpfenderfer
Miss North Dakota International 2017