Saturday, May 17, 2008

Long time, no post...

I'm way overdue for an update! I've been staying incredibly busy during the past few weeks - so busy, in fact, that Miss Missouri snuck up on me. I will be moving into the dorm at the Military Academy in exactly two weeks. But first, let me backtrack on what I've been up to...


On April 8, I had the privilege of speaking to the students at Waynesville High School about eating disorders, the Children's Miracle Network, and the Miss America Organization. I would like to extend a huge thank you to the WHS students and staff, especially Mr. Murray, Mr. McCullough, and Adam Keeton for arranging my visit and their continued assistance throughout the day! As the school day came to a close, I headed back to St. Louis to host a benefit for Multiple Sclerosis at Clayco Corp. I had a ton of fun emceeing the poker tournament and auction, and even learned a thing or two about Texas Hold 'Em!


On Friday, April 11, I traveled up north to Kirksville, Missouri, to co-host the annual Daddy-Daughter Dance with my sister and Miss Kirksville 2008, Jenna. The dance is hosted by the Heartland Task Force and Eta Sigma Gamma, my former national health science honorary from Truman State University. I had the opportunity to meet with many of the little girls and their fathers/male role models, as well as to promote the 40 Developmental Assets. The 40 Assets emphasize building positive relationships and learning to embrace healthy lifestyle choices through anti-tobacco and anti-drug campaigns. Thanks to the Heartland Task Force for inviting me to host for the second year in a row, and to Eta Sigma Gamma for allowing me to help organize the dance for the fourth year.


The following weekend, I was a guest of honor at the St. Louis Variety Kids Fashion Show & Auction at the Chase Park Plaza, along with my two teen queens, Sydnee and Stephanie. We hosted the silent auction, where I had the opportunity to showcase the star of the show - Gretchen. Gretchen is a twelve-week old West Highland Terrier who was up for auction at the show. During the fashion show, Gretchen and I showed off our runway walks and found her a new home. Special guests Miss Missouri America, Lindsay Casmaer, and Miss Missouri USA, Candice Crawford, were the highlight of the fashion show. It was a lot of fun to catch up with them about their experiences at Miss America and Miss USA. Big thanks to Robin Graham and the Variety Women for hosting the event, and to Mrs. Stottlemyre and Mrs. Patton for taking great care of me all day!


"Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it."

--Henry David Thoreau