Cody's little sister, Masha, got a wild hair and did something completely unlike her. She entered a pageant - The Miss Sorghum Day Pageant in Wewoka, Oklahoma. We saw her before the pageant started. She told us how nervous she was. (She's so cute.) She was one of the first contestants out. All the girls introduce themselves and tell why they want to be the next Miss Sorghum Queen all the while wearing their favorite casual attire. Masha came out introducing herself as a bilingual high school student. She answered the question why she wants to be the next Queen in Russian then translated it in English for the judges. What a way to start the pageant! Impressive!
There were only 8 contestants aging from 15-18 years old. The pageant was held in the Wewoka High School auditorium.The next category was public speaking - or the interview. The girls were given five potential questions they would be asked live during the pageant. Only one of those five questions would be asked. Masha's question was "Do you believe you are a giver or a taker?" Masha said she is both at times, but hopes to be more of a giver in the future. She gave excellent examples about how much of a giving heart she has. And it's true. She did so well and carried herself with poise and confidence during the interview. In my opinion, Masha was one of the top interviewees. (And I'm not being bias here!) She really was! She answered the question thoughtful and slowly. She controlled her volume and delivered her answer flawless. Many of the other girls were short and sweet not offering any specific detail like Masha did.
The last category was evening wear. The girls were allowed to choose their escort during this category. Masha picked her dad, Gene. It was so sweet to see them experience this together. Masha took her time and just glided across the stage like she was on air. She smiled and twirled that gorgeous gown. Confidence just spilled out of her. I was so proud of her at the moment that I cried.
Masha earned the honor of Miss Academic. She received a $50 gift card as the prize because she has the best grades and works the hardest out of all the contestants. The girl in the purple dress won Miss Sorghum. (She was simply beautiful and is a very sweet girl.)
Noah was such a gentleman oohing and ahhing as the girls glided across the stage. He occupied himself most of the time with my iPhone.
I think what I loved the best about Masha in this whole experience was two things: 1.) She didn't feel the need to get all dolled up and fake - no spray tan, no heavy makeup, no over-done gown. She was herself. Her gorgeous and perfect self. (Except for the mani and pedi her 'pageant mom', Linda, had her do. Ha!) 2.) She was genuinely excited to not win! Apparently the Queen has lots of responsibilities and engagements to attend. She was just happy to have the experience.
We were happy to have shared in this with her. She is a Queen to us
