07/25/2026
On this the eve of the 2026 Yuletide in the Park pageant, I can't help but reminse about the 2025 Yuletide year....
When I submitted my 2025 pageant application I was nervous and excited. This was a new world to me.. in my younger days as a member of the Women's club of Hamlin we had hosted pageants, so I'm very familiar with set up and I've even served as master of ceremonies for numerous Lincoln County pageants but to be on stage as a contestant would be a new adventure.
From the moment I walked through the pageant dressing room doors I could feel the sisterhood... ladies chatting.. sharing makeup tips and good luck charms..
I'm so grateful to the 2025 Yuletide contestants and the 2024 queens for their guidance, support, encouragement and friendship. They took a newbie under their wings and helped me to feel confident for my interview and on stage.
To hear my name called for Best Interview took my breath away.. receiving that award means the world to me.. and when my name was announced as the 2025 Mrs Yuletide in the Park I was completely shocked and overjoyed.. a moment I will forever cherish...
The 2025 year holds so many memories.. from helping with Backpack buddies to attending fairs and festivals. Our Yuletide festival holds a special place in my heart, a weekend filled with memories I cherish.
Thank you to our director Rita Dudley Meadows and to my 2025 sister queens... I'm thankful and blessed to have shared this year with each of you.
To the 2026 Yuletide contestants, my best wishes to each of you..
Pageantry is so much more than beautiful dresses.. it's lending a helping hand when you can, it's helping those in need, it's meeting amazing people, building lifelong friendships and being a part of an amazing pageant family!!