The BIG pageant day

Friday was the BIG day. The one where everything happens or does not happen. The day began at 7:30 am which was nice because the previous day ended at 10:30pm for Annnabeth. She enjoyed us primping her, and munching while watching tv. Once downstairs there was the 2nd of workshops explaining how the day would work, some more tips and introductions of what pageant people call royalty as in previous winners and staff. The great thing about this whole deal is that they value rewarding girls at every step of the way. Whatever happens she is a winner, has learned A LOT about herself and being confident in our world and even met a great friend.

After orientation we had a bit of a break since we did not enter talent or actress optionals. Next year talent is soooo on though. We watched several rehearsals and I am certain she could rock that category! Lunch/late breakfast since the hotel has nothing to offer was at Steak N Shake. Although Annabeth's favorite is the shake part I insisted she did not enjoy one due to the tummyache it tends to provide. We headed back, dressed up for the personal introduction and interview portion of the day.

She spoke clearly, made pretty good eye contact and overall was everything we practiced. The downfall, I had NO idea how rehearsed and creative other girls were going to be and wished I had done more. Ya know they say state your name, hometown and something interesting about you. She said Annabeth, XXXXXX City and competitive cheer and dance, plus she loves horses. She used to expression in her voice. BUT there were some with a long list, a poem and more. Ya, I learned quite a bit for the future let me tell you!

I did not get to see the interview portion because that is one on one. However since she was number 16 out of 95 we did not have to wait longer than 30 minutes. Note to self preregister again next year, BONUS!

Another small break later while casual wear modeling took place we ate dinner this time drive through Taco Bell per #2's request. Aunt Lisa and I worked on her hair reminding her that famous people do not sigh 50 times as they understand beauty is work. It turned out wonderfully see:

All she cared about was putting on the dress, and I don't really blame her. She looked so grown up, so beautifully, so full of grace and love. I felt teary eyed and grateful to share in this moment, so have people who can support her in this process. Watching her walk the hallway like a runway with an adult sway at the hips just made me want to hold her a bit tighter for this time ahead will surely fly. Kids grow up so fast! Her cousin was unable to escort her, and Daddy having charge of all 4 kids plus a friend could not either. She did have another kind Dad who volunteered. I HATE that the borrowed camera since mine was missing in action at the last second would not work well in the lighting conditions at hand. No picture to show you, maybe today when she is on stage again.

Post stage walk her newfound friend from this weekend encouraged us to sneak out early and take the free pics offered by the outrageous priced video and picture company. If you are family and friend well look for a message with the information to check them out later. The two girls took a few together, laughing and encompassing all that I hoped this event would allow her. We will def look for these friends again next year!
Whisking us away Annabeth stripped down and jumped into her swimsuit. This was the other part of the day she had been longing to do. The indoor pool was squishy and full so we headed to the outdoor pool and hot tub. Unfortunately, the hot tub was out of order and I missed out on the part I wanted. The pool was pretty cool and I regret not granting my daughters wish and swimming with her. She dove in and out a 100 times until her ear suddenly began to hurt. Back upstairs to snack, shower for her (despite a small spill in the shower unhurt), and watch a couple episodes of America's Funniest and Good Luck Charlie. Bed full of more giggles and laughter was at 10:30 once again.
Here's to Saturday being full of prizes, laughs, smiles and memories! Wish us luck!