ND International Pageant

When I stood up from my judge’s chair and walked on stage at the North Dakota International Pageant on December 1, 2012, I shared with the contestants, their family members and friends, the other judges, emcees, and production crew a message that I love to share with anyone who will listen. I told them that the ladies on stage behind me have already won, because they have already challenged themselves, found a cause to which they are committed, and taken a risk that not just anyone would take.

It was my privilege to share with the audience the feeling of honor that goes with carrying the Mrs. International crown on my head. As I travel the world and meet people from all walks of life, I tell them about the International system and what makes it so special, I share the message of living a heart healthy life whenever the opportunity is afforded, and cannot even put into words the feeling that is experienced when I speak about my burn injuries and the way in which I now view my scars after so many years of covering them up.

Most importantly, I shared with them that I carry this crown in honor and representation of each of the ladies on the stage, every member of the audience who assisted these lovely competitors to achieve their goals, and all of the individuals in auditoriums just like this one who have made the same commitments around the world.

I want to thank Kathy and Allison for asking me to be a judge at what was a fabulous production. It was a blast judging with such an experienced panel of judges; Krista, Maddy, Megan, and Andrew.

Judges and Winners

As for the outgoing Queens, you obviously had an amazing year together, and I am confident North Dakota could not be more proud of the way you represented your state. A special mention to my “Rock Star Roommate” in Chicago, Ashley…who announced that she and Adam are expecting in her farewell speech!

To the new titleholders, you each have a wonderful opportunity before you…make every moment count!

Becky, Krista, me, Maddy, and Megan 

Krista and me

Krista, Olivia, me and Ashley

Krista, Taylor, Grace, Jen and me

And last, but not least, it was so thrilling to meet the beautiful and gracious Carolyn Mosher, Mrs. International 1996, who represented North Dakota and all of us so very well! This may sound funny, but I was actually so excited when I was told she was in the room…a real Mrs. International…I had to giggle at myself for forgetting the crown was on my head!

With love and appreciation,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012

North Dakota International Pageants

One perk of being the queen, that I have been eagerly looking forward to, is finally being on the other side of the table, judging! I was counting down the days when asked to come to the North Dakota International Pageant. I thought that being a judge would take some of the pressure off and I could relax and enjoy the show. Boy was I wrong, I think I was more nervous than the contestants.

In interview, I wanted to make sure I made all the girls feel comfortable but still challenge them. I was nervous I would come across as mean or intimidating, that is just so not me! I was very impressed with all of the contestants as they filtered through the judging tables. There were so many beautiful, intelligent, accomplished, and motivated young women. That’s what I really enjoy about this system, the quality of women it attracts. I loved hearing about their personal lives and platform work personally coming from them. No matter how well a bio is written, there is nothing like seeing someone’s face and eyes light up when they talk about their passion. 

After interviews were over, we enjoyed a meal together and I got to catch up with a few friends of mine who happened to be judging too, Maddy Thoele Miss Minnesota Intl 2009 and Megan Ehlert Miss Teen Minnesota 2007! We got to bed soon after dinner and got up bright and early to watch rehearsals. Seeing the girls outside of the performance portion of the competition is very important. I like to see how the girls interact with one another, how they take direction, and their level of patience.

 

In the afternoon we had lunch at Grazies and later, dinner at the Cork n’ Cleaver. After much anticipation, the final show had finally arrived! We watched as the crowed filed into their seats. There was a buzz of excitement in the air. The lights dimmed and the emcees appeared from behind the curtains, Becky Ringen Miss Minnesota Intl 2007 and the local Bison Football announcer! The North Dakota team produced a fabulous show! The choreography and staging was top notch! Finally, the 2013 queens were about to be announced…I was so excited for them. I was totally reliving my own crowning moment in my head.

Saying goodbye to the 2012 queens Olivia Naylor, Erica Lemma, and Ashley Voigt was tear jerking but I am so thrilled for the new 2013 queens, and don’t worry ladies, your crowns are in good hands. Good luck in all your future endeavors. You have the support of your international family forever.

 

  

Say hello to the New North Dakota Queens!

Congratulations Grace Sproule Miss Teen North Dakota Intl 2013, Taylor Wagner Miss North Dakota Intl 2013, and Jennifer Mauch Mrs. North Dakota Intl 2012!! Welcome to the International sisterhood. I am so proud! You will be wonderful titleholders!

 

 Enjoy this year because it goes by in the blink of an eye. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, this is a once in a lifetime type of year. Live it up!

All my love XOXO,

Krista Wanous
Miss International 2012

P.S. Erica Lemma – how did we manage to not get one photo taken this whole weekend?!
(big sad face)