Week three brought 4th of July fun, sponsor visits, Miss America paperwork, and priceless time with the one and only Annie Woodmansey. I arrived at Sally and Daryl’s house late Sunday evening with my mom. On Monday I woke up to the smell of waffles (Sally spoils me). My mom, Sally, and I spent the day together and visited Kathleen’s Unique Boutique in Spearfish. I felt like royalty, as I quite literally tried on every outfit in the store. It was such carefree afternoon with amazing women. I purchased several items that I can use throughout the year as Miss South Dakota. Keep your eyes peeled and be sure to stop by Kathleen’s Unique Boutique.
Tuesday was truly a day to remember. Sally and Daryl escorted me to one of the most spectacular monuments, especially around the 4th of July – Mount Rushmore. I met with Cheryl, the Superintendent and then got my picture with the four Presidential reenactors. Over the next two hours, I met the kindest people from every corner of our great nation. Pictures. Autographs. Smiles. Laughs. Hugs. I loved every second of the experience. It was truly an honor to welcome so many people to South Dakota, especially the day before America’s birthday.
Wednesday I was back in Huron, my hometown, for the 4th of July Parade. Juanita and Todd Johnson agreed to drive me through the parade. I have known Juanita for years, as she has worked with my dad since he first started his dental practice years ago. When I was the teen titleholder, Juanita helped me promote my platform. She mentored me and attended training sessions to ensure my friend, Kahlie, and I were prepared to visit classrooms. Juanita’s niece, Felicity, rode in the parade with me. Quick tip – when you think you’ve bought enough candy for the parade, ALWAYS buy 5 more bags. Felicity and I had a great time waving and throwing pounds of candy over the side of the car. It was wonderful to be back with so many people I grew up with.
Thursday was filled with Miss America paperwork and preparations for Miss America. Early Friday morning, I drove into Huron for a meeting with the Republican candidate for State Treasurer, Josh Haeder. His main initiative focuses on financial wellness, a direct correlation with Money $heep. I am excited to work with him to help advance financial education for South Dakota. After my meeting, I hit the road to Redfield to meet with Dana from Redfield Energy. South Dakota Ethanol Producers sponsors my travel as Miss South Dakota, and it was a pleasure to tour the ethanol plant in Redfield. I can’t wait to go back for another tour – there is too much information to grasp onto in just one tour. Later that afternoon, I went up to Aberdeen to table at Kessler’s with Annie Woodmansey for Children’s Miracle Network. We had the best time talking with grocery shoppers and crowning several lucky girls (you may be looking at Miss South Dakota 2026).
Over the weekend, my mom and dad went with me to Minneapolis to see my piano teacher and her husband. Kathryn calls it piano boot camp. I practiced the piano until my fingers quit working. We went out to dinner with a friend from high school and my personal trainer, Melissa and her fiancé, Graham. Melissa and I got in some intense workouts over the weekend too. Competing for Miss South Dakota has introduced me to some of the most incredible people. Melissa and Kathryn have supported me and challenged me every step of the way. I am so lucky to call them my mentors, but most importantly they are life-long friends.
Onto week four and the first local competition of the 2019 Miss South Dakota season. See you next week.