"Each time I get up to present on a bill or address a group of people it takes me back to every rodeo queen speech I ever made. " I grew up on a ranch with crunch times at specific times of the year. My husband’s family ranch/farm where I currently reside is all about year round efforts to make a living in agriculture. I’ve learned a great deal about stamina while being a part of the Diamond Tail Ranch team. And to add to our load, a year ago I ran for the Wyoming House of Representatives. I now represent House District 26 in the Wyoming Legislature. I often tell people my first Session experience was like calving heifers: little sleep, high stress, quick decisions, and long days. Not unlike some days as Miss Rodeo Wyoming! |
Each time I get up to present on a bill or address a group of people it takes me back to every rodeo queen speech I ever made. As MRW there were long days with a head that hurt from wearing the heavy, gorgeous, Wyoming jaded crown! There were days I didn’t feel well but still had to put a smile on my face and show up for an event. There were times riding horses that weren’t as well broke as I was accustomed to and having to also sing the National Anthem aboard that mount. There were long days and nights driving alone on Wyoming roads and traveling through airports visiting with fellow passengers when I would have rather found a corner to take a nap. Stamina and good manners are requirements to be a rodeo queen, mom, wife, business owner, employee, etc. There are days when you are going to have to dig deep to fulfill your obligations and that will be true for the rest of your life. But most days, are simply wonderful and tremendously rewarding. EVERY DAY is a gift knowing you are loved by God.
My last word of advice was given to me by Shirley Holmes Churchill (MRW 1980) and it is a policy I still maintain: always write a personal “thank you” to EVERYONE who helps you along the way. Thank the stock contractor who mounts you for a grant entry. Thank the person who hosts your appearance at their local rodeo. Thank anyone who gives you an assist and hand up in your ride as MRW especially your Association members, sponsors and coordinator. But lastly, thank those most important to you, your parents and siblings! |
I so appreciate the fact that I am Miss Rodeo Wyoming 1985. No matter what I do in life, like motherhood and service as a Legislator it is a gift no one can take away. So I tip my hat to our future MRW and all young women who seek this opportunity. It is worth all the hard work and sacrifices. But no matter what you endeavor it will always involve a lot of stamina, good manners and the need to cowboy up!