My Farewell.

Dream. A simple word when made into reality is immeasurably powerful. In these last few moments as Miss Perham 2011 I am overwhelmed with emotion by my dreams realized; not only as your Miss Perham 2011, but as Paige Meyer. I give all the credit first to my Creator for intricately knowing the desires my heart and giving me people to love and shape me through my dreams.

Mom, thank you for loving me when I was overwhelmed, excited, nervous, and full of joy in the many experiences I had this year. From college, to trips to New York, Washington D.C, California (alone!), Miss Minnesota, and endless other appearances and job shifts. Dad, thank you for your encouragement throughout my endeavors this year as well. Know I will always be behind you in the challenges you face. Terry, where would I be without your behind the scenes acts of love? From providing financially, complementing an outfit, and going with the flow of pageant craziness. My brothers and sisters, thank you for loving me even when I had to miss one of your big events to be Miss Perham. 

To Gina, my faithful guide and supporter. Every minute you spent contributed to who you see stand before you today. As you now begin a new leadership role in the Miss America Organization please know your years of service in Perham continue to leave a legacy. Selfless women and volunteers like you are the roots to this organization. Candice, you will never experience enough of my gratitude for our conversations we had about pageants, college, but more importantly God’s calling for our lives. Robin, my beloved ballet teacher, thank you for taking my stencil of “Via Dolorosa” for Miss Minnesota and turning it into a work of art. Bob and Laurie Sazama, you both are extraordinary examples of genuine supporters. 

To my readers of the East Otter Focus, it was an honor to be your weekly columnist. Each one of you who took time to thank me for my articles consistently reminded me of the honor I had to be your representative. To the students, staff, and educators at Perham Public Schools, thank you for allowing me to share my platform “It’s No Joke, Say NO to Smoke,” in your classrooms. To SADD National, for allowing me to influence my entire generation across the United States. I always appreciated your support and love as I was not only serving on the Student Leadership Council of SADD National, but also with the Miss America Organization. 

My beautiful Miss Minnesota Class of 2012 sisters. The Lord had a big plan for the state of Minnesota as each of us became Miss Local’s. My experience at Miss Minnesota would not have been as inspiring without each of you. I am continually thankful and uplifted to know people who share a similar desire to leave a powerful legacy in this world. 

To the community of Perham and sponsors of the Miss Perham Scholarship Program, as I was crowned just one short year ago my number one goal was to further establish the Miss Perham Organization. As I now become a former Miss Perham my hope is that you will continue to embrace your new titleholder. I ask this because you embraced me with open arms. To the contestants of Miss Perham, every one of you have a unique path laid for you, and for one lies the title of Miss Perham 2012. Whether that journey is ahead for you, always remain confident in the contribution you hold to our world.

As I crown your new Miss Perham the last sentence of my year will be written, but more importantly another dream realized and fulfilled. Remain strong and confident that I will continue to carry the love of Perham, and my dreams realized here, wherever I am lead next. 

Blessings and much love, 

Paige  Meyer

Miss Perham 2011