In the words of a very perceptive four-year-old named Nathan, “Well, summers just around the corner!” Eighty degrees in Henryetta this week and thirties with snow back home in Washington – I may have picked the right time to move down here! I’ve had a week of unpacking but after 6 days, 5 trips to Wal-Mart, 4 massive boxes to be emptied and numerous times of changing my mind, I finally have my place organized the way I want it. Moving is difficult, but finding a spot for 20 pairs of boots just adds to the challenge!
It is homey, welcoming and Tom is very impressed with my arena-front view out my window. What he may not notice is that my view includes much more than that. As I sit here and blog, windows open, breeze blowing and birds chirping the arrival of spring, I enjoy every moment of the blessings I’ve been granted. To look out the window and see a beautiful new world that symbolizes the new adventures ahead of me, can be overwhelming. It isn’t a stretch to say that a year ago if you would have told me that I’d relocate to the state of Oklahoma, I would have never believed you. Worlds away from my beautiful Washington, it seems vastly different from all I’ve ever known. Isn’t is amazing the doors that open when you are willing to put yourself out there? I may have a schedule of bookings that I’ll be attending this year, but it is impossible to predict the experiences I will have this year as Miss Rodeo USA. I’ve truly enjoyed all the advice I’ve been given from past queens and their personal stories of their years. What I’ve taken away from most of them is that the year will be unpredictable, and of course, demanding, but you will walk away saying, “That was the time of my life.” This unique opportunity would not be possible without the many sponsors and supporters of myself and the Miss Rodeo USA Association and for that, thank you.
Why the personal reflection today? Next weekend I truly kick off the first of my activities and events with a trip to the Dallas Market. From then on, I have nearly every weekend booked through the next few months. I’m so anxious to begin my duties with the first of my scheduled appearances and wonder if I’ll be able to slow down enough to smell the roses for awhile!
A pretty view can really make the wheels start churnin’ in your mind, can’t they? Yes, my window does provide quite the scene, but unfortunately it is also revealing an approaching storm. Turns out, extremely nice weather one day and drastic changes the next means trouble in the skies! I better sign off for today but one more quick note - for all those who are consistently checking the main site to be updated, we will have it up SOON! Thanks for your patience! Take care!
Jamie darlin'! We're so glad you're getting comfortably settled in to your new "home away from home." It sounds so beautiful. Saw your mom the other day; dropped off a little something for you from a nice lady named Sharon, and her manager, Steve, from Craft Warehouse down in Yakima. I hope you enjoy the surprise. :-) We miss you much! Cheryl
Posted by: Roy & Cheryl | March 09, 2009 at 05:11 PM
Jamie, you are an incredible writer, and an outstanding young woman. I feel as if I am with you as you write about your adventure present and future. At every stop in you year as Miss Rodeo USA, stop take a slow deep breath for you will only pass this way one time. A faithful follower of Miss Rodeo USA and old queen Mom. Donna Brock(Arkansas)
Posted by: Donna Brock | March 10, 2009 at 06:21 AM
Hello Jamie,
Are you coming to Red Bluff, CA for our rodeo? It'll be April 17th -19th. I sure hope so you will sure light up the scene here. Besides, I just found out you have "family" here. Call your Grandpa Bob and Grandma in Oregon. They will tell you all about it. Can't wait to meet you.
Wes and Betty Meyers
Posted by: Wes and Betty Meyers | March 10, 2009 at 03:48 PM