Parade of the Northwest and Bailey's Miss America's Outstanding Teen Send-Off

Today has been a busy and HOT day! But every minute of it was worth the little extra "glisten."

This afternoon I was a part of the Parade of the Northwest, the big finale to the Detroit Lakes Water Carnival Celebration in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. The ride was a bit warm, but the smiles and "little water" from the crowd made my time well spent. Once arriving in DL I searched for any clue as to where the Perham Express was. This parade is one of the biggest in the area with over 100 entries. Luckily, I spotted some sparkly crowns, MAO crowns to be exact! I was then greeted by Siri, our Miss MN and the newly crowned Northwest royalty Rebecca and Sarah. I was so happy to see familiar faces. Thankfully, Cindy, the wonderful director of the Miss Northwest program, escorted me to my float.

Pre-Parade I had a chance to visit with Katie and Hailey, area Frazee ladies. I also had the wonderful opportunity to meet the newly crowned Miss Thief River Falls. Of course we snapped some pictures and visited with other float neighbors. It's always nice to meet people from around the state of Minnesota. I even had a chance to catch up with some ladies I met last summer. It was good to see them.  

Today I got to sit on top of the train instead of in the caboose. It sure was a great view! Seeing how parade watchers reacted to my spot on the train was quite hilarious. Some of them seemed worried about me! It was such a fun crowd today. 

After the parade I made the commute to Brainerd in support of our Miss Minnesota's Outstanding Teen and my good friend, Bailey. She and I met just three short years ago when we competed for the title of MMOT in 2010. She and I were 2nd and 1st runner up together. I am confident our positions after the crowning brought us together as great friends. At the Franklin Arts Center Bailey shared much of her wardrobe for her week at Miss America's Outstanding Teen. She looked stunning!

Bailey is an incredible young woman of God who embraces the Miss America Organization with her entire being. Her work with her platform "Alzheimer's through the Eyes of a Child" has become her tireless cause to create comfort for those dealing with the disease. I have never been more proud of a wonderful friend and sister in Christ. Best wishes Bailey as you head to Miss America's Outstanding Teen. I know you will shine.

Much love,
Paige