WORLAND - With all the hustle and bustle of being a wife and mother of three, including Bible school and T-Ball games, Worland's own Kelly McBee, Mrs. America 2008, is preparing to leave for the Mrs. World 2008 pageant.

She will fly to Kaliningrad, Russia, where the Mrs. World 2008 pageant is to be held June 29.

The concept for "Mrs. World" has its roots in one of the oldest and most respected of all competitions - "Mrs. America," according to the Mrs. World Web site.

The extravaganza was recognized in 1977 by David Marmel featuring a more contemporary and glamorous approach. While beauty is the key element, contestants are also urged to voice their opinions about marriage and current events.

The Web site said all married women - young wives, mothers and even grandmothers - are eligible to participate.

"The kickoff orientation for all of the contestants will be June 16," McBee said. "There will be rehearsals, touring and dinners with dignitaries."

There's no doubt McBee is excited about competing, but there is also some trepidation of being away from her family for 18 days. Just recently, she returned from participating in the Mrs. Wyoming 2008 pageant in Cheyenne, where she crowned the winner.

"I don't feel any different when I put on my crown," she said. "My thrill is when children ask for my autograph."

McBee also drove to South Dakota to meet her designer, Caroline Hayden of Minnesota.

"Since she lives in Minnesota, we met each other halfway in South Dakota," McBee said. "The weather was miserable, raining the entire time."

Her custom-made gown is all hand-beaded, with the material made in India.

"It is white, with a vintage look and almost has a silver tint to it," McBee said.

The competition consists of 50 percent interview, 25 percent swimsuit and 25 percent evening gown.

Kelly said the judges ask the contestants about their personal and family lives. They are not allowed to ask contestants about religion or political views.

"All of the ladies wear the same style of swimsuit," McBee said. "My costume is a sailor outfit and hat in red, white and blue."

During the Mrs. America 2008 competition at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Ariz., Mrs. Rhode Island wore a similar outfit, and McBee thought it was adorable and fitting to represent the United States.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," McBee said. "I'm not concerned with winning the competition. I want to be able to meet all of the women and learn more about their cultures and lifestyles."

Through it all, Kelly has had tremendous support from her family and friends.

Said the 31-year-old, brown-eyed brunette: "I just want to thank all of them for their support, and especially the local businesses who have sponsored me. I will make all of you proud."