Eye Candy

The night before the pageant I was so excited I couldn't sleep. After watching the clock until 4:00 a.m. I finally dozed off and was awoken at 7:00 a.m. by a remarkably animated call from Michelle. At that moment I was so groggy she was more thrilled about the days events than me. She said, "Wake up sleepy head! You have a big day ahead of you. I'm so excited. Aren't you?" I answered, "Yes! But I didn't get much sleep, so I'm going to snooze until my CNA gets here to help me shower. OK?" We hung up and I closed my eyes, but my mind started going over the many things I needed to remember to do. I gave up on getting any more shut eye, got up and called Michelle back. I let her know I was up and around, getting things in order, so she wouldn't worry.

The building we got ready for the pageant in and had our Soiree at was just two blocks from the venue, so I drove my electric wheelchair down the Salt Lake streets in my pageant dress to get there. That was one of the highlights of the evening, because every few seconds there was a jaw dropping in stunned amazement or finger pointing with a 'Look at That?' glance sent from person-to-person. I did my usual, "Hello! How are you? Have a wonderful evening!" with a energetic wave. This brought the usual, smile and "Thanks?!" Followed by a questioning look.

As I got to the Salt Palace the Events Coordinator began gathering contestants and introducing us to our escorts (The Honor Guard of Fire Stations around Utah...HOT! lol) for the evening. When my escort saw me he ran over, leaped in the air, gestured with a pumped fist exclaiming, "Yes! I got the cool girl!" I just chuckled loudly as I shook his hand. He then said, "My name is J.R. Do I need to help you in any way? Do you need me to drive or push your chair?" I answered without a thought, "No! Just stand there and look pretty! Be my eye candy!" He laughed so hard I thought he was going to lose his balance and said, "They matched us up perfectly. I'm as wild as you. If that's possible?!"...

Do not plow with an ox and a donkey yoked together.
Deuteronomy 22:10

I am blessed
Merrym Dawn Mathis Bruce