I am a little behind on my postings as life as been really crazy and hectic since rodeo season kicked into high gear. Not a good excuse I know but its all I have! Thank you to everyone who reads and comments on this site. It means a lot to me that you take the time and care enough about what I am up to and check up on me from time to time.
The Miss Rodeo Oregon Pageant held in St. Paul was one of my favorite weeks as JMRO so far. We were invited to attend the Gold Buckle Gala Sunday Night where we got up close and personal with all four girls competing to be the next Miss Rodeo Oregon. Monday was busy as we attended the horsemanship portion of the contest and did an actual run in the most incredible arena in Oregon, St. Paul. Later that afternoon we hosted a luncheon. Ashley Ekstrom's mom Michelle and my mom Jaimi worked hard to make it happen. This also gave us an opportunity to talk with the contestants without the judges present. I am so glad I didn't have to judge what a difficult choice it would have been.
We participated in the opening ceremonies of the St. Paul rodeo everynight and attended the Hall of Fame BBQ. I can't tell you how wonderful it was to be around the legendary cowboys and cowgirls who were being inducted into the hall of fame. Fashion show practice took up a couple of hours every night we had fun poking fun at each others lack of dancing ability. All I can say is that I don't think I have a future in dance!
We took a field trip one morning to an aviation museum and had lunch at the Golden Valley Brewery in McMinville. The fashion show was a huge success and all four contestants speeches were very good. The final night there we attended the Tough Enough To Wear Pink performance and watched as Jackie Gibson was crowned 2009 Miss Rodeo Oregon.
Saturday morning was the St. Paul parade. I can't recall ever seeing so many beautiful girls in one place at one time in my life. I think every queen in the state was there. Nicole, Ashley and I were each given a trophy and ribbon for first place.
More from Cowboy Christmas as I find the time...
Staheli Jo Wilkinson
2008 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon
