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Another Western Fest in the books

Our Little Cowgirl
Western Fest seems to creep up faster each year and the week itself becomes a blur.  As much work as it is, I have to admit it's a fun week to spend with my sister, some amazing committee ladies, 4 fabulous Royal Family members and 8 great candidates!  It's such an emotional week that I can't even begin to explain.  We are asked constantly why do we do it, and quite simply I do it for the involvement and providing an opportunity for these young ladies to do something special that will stay with them forever.

Joelle and her favorite ladies
This current group of Royalty touched my heart this year, as we saw an example of true friendship, loyalty, care and support throughout the year.  These were some amazing ladies, leaving big shoes to fill.  They will forever hold a special place in my heart.  Thank Jennifer, Kelsey, Cynthia and Madison for reminding us why we do this.  You made me cry daily...

Then enter 8 beautiful young ladies vying for the spots held by the awesome foursome.  The week gets harder each day as we grow to enjoy the company of each one in their own special way.  How will the judges ever decide?  And thank goodness it's not up to us, but to 4 great professionals with no knowledge of the candidates other than what is presented to them on the 2 days of judging.  Even they admitted this was harder than they thought it would be.  Dana, Linda, Andrea and Jason, thank you for your time, your insight and your judgement! It truly is a difficult choice to make.

New Members to the Royal Family
New Royalty Introduction
With the decision finally made with literally seconds to spare before the emcees had to ad lib and fill time, the new royal family was announced.  We welcomed new princesses Taylor and Cortney, jr. princess Hannah and our new Miss Western Fest Brooke!  With many tears we congratulated those selected and consoled those who were not and had to admit that we wouldn't be seeing Jen, Kelsey, Cynthia or Madison on "official" appearances any more.  I escorted the new royalty to the PRCA Rodeo at LeeMar Ranch to present the new royalty to the Western Fest attendees.  They were beautifully presented in a white horse-drawn carriage by Dave Finnes.  Then off for some nourishment at the Tjosaas home and talk about what has just happened!

Watching the Parade

Emma in Uniform!
Sunday was anything but a relax at home day, as it was Emma's final marching band performance for the season in Alexandria.  After dropping her off and downloading some photos we loaded up some food and snacks and headed for the parade ourselves!  Joelle had a great time even though it was a bit chilly!  She was breaking out the dance moves!  Shortly after the 212 Regiment marched past our location we loaded up and headed for home so I could make it to new royalty contract signing and float instruction!  The girls were still giddy!  And dress shopping plans were finalized!

Monday was declared shopping day with the new royalty and it was a SUCCESS!!!  The unveiling of the new formals will be on Monday, July 4th!  Stay tuned!  Black skirt sets were found as well!!  These girls are ready to hit the road and represent Granite Falls Western Fest with pride and grace!  It will be quite an adventure for them, and for us as well as Katy and I determine our time frame of continuing with the program and identifying when and how to turn the program over to some new capable hands.

Comments

  1. LauraJune 28, 2011 at 11:04 PM

    Wow you are amazing what a busy week! So you are not going to do this forever??

    Love the pictures of Emma and Joelle too.

    ReplyDelete

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