tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12266580650838454052024-03-14T10:31:34.804-07:00Miss Florida 2012Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-51068690223795349792013-03-23T07:42:00.002-07:002013-03-23T07:42:32.387-07:00Post Miss America highlights!<br />
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I feel so blessed to travel the state of Florida representing our amazing organization! Here are a few highlights of my over 50 appearances over the last couple months! Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OeH_CrENZhtSv7Rco79qv70NFMBhx8DI-O0xqmZOXPbYJB-MO2ANho7nflAf5wKX-Q3yqWF5Us1ul2Zz7hA2AbgzXQNEvDCeiDeJWZtR_BKHxWkXYn94ODWwghbTuEJUWk9yG6PFXgQ/s1600/IMG_3695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1OeH_CrENZhtSv7Rco79qv70NFMBhx8DI-O0xqmZOXPbYJB-MO2ANho7nflAf5wKX-Q3yqWF5Us1ul2Zz7hA2AbgzXQNEvDCeiDeJWZtR_BKHxWkXYn94ODWwghbTuEJUWk9yG6PFXgQ/s320/IMG_3695.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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St. Petersburg MLK Day Parade</div>
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Bonnie's 100th Birthday Party!</div>
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Tall Ship Lynx Tour</div>
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Bailey came!</div>
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With my dear friend Piper at Miss Tempe Pageant</div>
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H.O.P.E Golf Tournament</div>
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Tampa Bay Senior Expo</div>
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Driving the Tall Ship Lynx at the VIP Reception</div>
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This boat was complicated....</div>
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Tampa Mayor's Food Truck Friday</div>
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Florida State Fair</div>
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Florida State Fair and Florida Agriculture Society Dinner</div>
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Miss UF</div>
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SHANDS Hospital</div>
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Riviera Health Resort St. Patrick's Day Party</div>
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Seaside Neighborhood School</div>
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Rent Gear Here Photoshoot</div>
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University Academy in Panama City, FL</div>
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Bikin'</div>
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University Academy</div>
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Miss Largo/St. Petersburg/Pinellas County</div>
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With Leah at Miss Placentia Pageant</div>
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Miss USF with my dear Rob</div>
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Grand Prix Parade</div>
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Teen Think Tank in Ocala</div>
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Miss UF </div>
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Everglades Foundation ForEver Benefit</div>
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So many more exciting events are on the horizon! Stay tuned to my Facebook, our Miss Florida Pageant Facebook page, My twitter (@LauraMcKeeman) and my Instagram (LauraMcKeeman) for all the latest updates on Miss Florida's many travels. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I'm baaaaaaaaaccckkkk!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Wow, what an adventure. I could have never
imagined how much I would learn from an experience like Miss America. I
feel so incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to compete in such a
legendary competition but I also feel so fortunate to be going back home where
I can serve the state I love. I came away from Vegas with a whole pile of
new and amazing friends, a deep gratitude to all those who helped build me up
and a greater understanding of myself and where I'm supposed to be. Miss
America is a life-changing, mind-boggling experience. I was constantly
struck with how unforgettable each moment was. I am thrilled for the next
Miss Florida as she too will go to Miss America and experience one of the best times
of her life. I can't wait to shower her with advice!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Here's a day by day recap of everything that
happened at Miss America:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Day 1: ARRIVAL: I got to the Tampa
airport for a very early flight and I was greeted by the wonderful Rob Loy
(Miss Florida board member and friend). I was all decked out in an outfit
meant for much colder weather desperately trying not to sweat my spray tan off
before I even got to Vegas. Rob and I took a few last minute photos and I
was off! I ended up sitting by a very rambunctious baby on my way to
Vegas and he decided I was his jungle gym for most of the 4 hour flight.
I figured it was great preparation to be Miss America...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">When I landed in Las Vegas, I was greeted by Chris
with Miss America security. He quickly became one of my favorites thanks
to his jovial sense of humor and love of sports. We piled my two
suitcases in the car (we shipped most of my wardrobe there) and headed to the
Planet Hollywood hotel! As soon as I got to the hotel, I started seeing
the other contestants and after multiple embraces, I realized I was about to
make some lifelong friends. My roommate, Miss South Dakota is one of
them. I was instantly at ease thanks to her warmth and we had many good
laughs throughout the week. Calista, you are phenomenal! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">The rooms at the hotel were great because both
girls get a hanging rack and an individual sink! We set up some of our
stuff and quickly had to change for the arrival ceremony. I got to see
all of the girls at the ceremony and the excitement in the air was palpable.
We all knew someone's life was changing forever in a matter of days and
it was thrilling to contemplate. We finished the arrival ceremony and
went to a meeting with the MAO office where they served pizza and cake.
We all ate it, of course and were thrilled to have it! I sat at a
table with Miss Michigan and Miss Alabama and we all listened intently to their
accents as they talked. Miss Alaska told me she thought she was beginning
to sound like Alabama accidentally. At this point, we didn't all know
each other's names well so we would often refer to each other as our states.
You would hear someone yell, "Puerto Rico" or "South
Carolina" across the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">After the meeting, we went to an interview session
with the LiveWell Network. By this time, us east coast girls were
beginning to feel the repercussions of being awake since 4 AM and we were
fading fast. We finally went upstairs to bed and tried to get some
shut-eye amidst all the excitement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Day 2: REHEARSAL: For me, the second
day at Miss America was mostly spent rehearsing for upcoming video shoots and
for the preliminary nights. Other girls were being pulled for interviews
that we all did eventually but I stayed in rehearsal all day learning the
swimsuit and evening gown walking patters as well as the opening number.
We had a great time getting to know each other better and I think I
probably talked to about 38 girls just finding out more about them and enjoying
their stories throughout the day. We had about 15 minutes to change for
our event that night so we all hustled to our rooms and everyone came out
looking so beautiful. I can't even tell y'all how pretty all of these
girls are! Pictures don't do them justice. Our appearance was at
the Terry Fator ventriloquist show and it was phenomenal. We were all
blown away at his talents and had a fun time going out on the stage and being
introduced to the crowd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Day 3: REHEARSAL AND MORE: We continued to
rehearse everything and began to lose all ability to know what day or time it
was. It was actually nice because we were not allowed to have our phones
so we adjusted and enjoyed life without contact to regular society. That
night we had the Miss America Fashion Show at Las Vegas Fashion Show Mall.
It was incredible. I could have never imagined myself walking in a
fashion show like this and I'm sure I wasn't the coolest on the runway but it
was an absolute blast. I will never forget what it felt like to wave at
the crowd from that runway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">After the fashion show, we went to Bucca Di Beppo
for a delicious dinner. It was hilarious seeing all these girls in crowns
and sashes pigging out on bread and italian food but we were ready to eat!
Then, they brought out the biggest ice cream sundae I have ever seen and
the whole thing got even funnier. We all went nuts as we hadn't had ice
cream in quite some time and everyone was laughing so hard. Stomach aches
quickly followed but it was all worth it. I even got to stir a huge pot
of marinara sauce with Miss California. What a night!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 4: FILMING: It was an early morning
filled with fruit snacks and peanut butter (thank goodness for the Miss America
hostesses) as we hopped on the bus to film our introduction for the ABC
broadcast. My group filmed at the Boneyard in Vegas and we had so much
fun. It was such an interesting place-- a graveyard of sorts for old
signs. We returned to rehearsal and had an early night because my group
started interviews the next morning. We enjoyed getting sleep when we
could and I spent time reading cards everyone had sent me. The wonderful
support is so enriching and I am honored to have so many people behind me.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 5: INTERVIEW: Today was the first
day we got to rehearse in the Planet Hollywood theater and it was magical.
I never even spent time thinking about what it would feel like to be on
the Miss America stage and there I was, standing on it. We all started
joking because as the day went on, people slept on the stage, sat down on the
stage, and even slipped on the stage. We all agreed that we would have
never imagined sleeping on the Miss America stage. It was all surreal and
I loved just rehearsing walking patterns on the stage because it was so
magnificent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Around noon I was dismissed from rehearsal to go prepare for my
interview. My incredibly talented makeup artist and great friend Hollie
O'Brien met me to do my hair and makeup and she did an exceptional job (it
takes a lot to make me look presentable and she got it done!). I went
upstairs to wait for my interview in my hotel room and did my final
preparations. One of the last things I did was watch Cullen Johnson (Miss
Virginia) in her Miss America interview in 1995. She was Heather
Whitestone's first runner up and Mary showed me her interview a couple of
months ago. I absolutely loved it and felt she is a true representation
of how to be yourself in any situation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">My interview was very difficult but I felt very prepared thanks to the
Miss Florida board and all of the thoughtful mock interview judges I had over
the past few months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Miss America
judges asked me about everything from gun control to what I would discuss with
President Obama if I could sit him down in the White House right now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am very critical of myself but I felt like
I did the best I could with the questions I was given and felt a sense of relief
when it was over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">That night we got to eat a very satisfying dinner while watching the
second half of the national championship game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While enjoying piles of Dorito mac and cheese, we watched Alabama crush
Notre Dame!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 6:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>TALENT:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we arrived at the theater Tuesday
morning, we all immediately ran to the stage to see how slippery it was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon discovering that it was very slick, I
started praying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rehearsal was alright
but I felt like I was dancing on ice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thank goodness for Shea Sullivan’s encouragement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt like a crazy person shaking my
tambourine all over that stage but she made me feel like I was doing Florida
proud!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promised myself I would give it
my all that night because it might be the last time I ever danced ballet on the
Miss America stage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure enough, it was
and I had the time of my life out there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m so thankful I got the chance to dance on that stage and I was so
glad my family was there to see it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank
you to Shea Sullivan for the awesome choreography and thank you to Mary Angles
for the incredible costume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so
honored I had the chance to wear it on a beautiful stage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 7:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ON STAGE QUESTION:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wednesday was a nice break in the middle of
the week with just on stage question to focus on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved the opportunity to talk about my
platform The Miracle League a little bit more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All the on stage questions on preliminary nights at Miss America are platform
based so every girl gets a chance to promote her platform no matter what.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was able to tell the audience about how to
raise funds for The Miracle League and talk about my friend Matt Walker who
first told me about this organization when he invited me to his baseball game
and I learned about how they build baseball fields for children with
disabilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Also, I cannot thank Regalia Magnificent Apparel and Juan Carlos Pinera
enough for my on stage question dress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
loved wearing it and I felt it was the epitome of class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 8:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>SWIMSUIT AND EVENING
GOWN:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could not have been more excited
to wear my evening gown.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so
grateful for the generosity of Carry and David at Regalia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They gave me a gown that made me feel amazing
and for the first time ever, I felt like I actually looked like I belonged in a
pageant (haha!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was sooo cold
running from the dressing room tent to the stage in a swimsuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I definitely should have brought a robe…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Thursday night was very emotional for all of the contestants because we
realized we had finished competing and there was nothing more we could do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was then in the hands of the judges to
decide who would make the top 15 and ultimately who would become Miss
America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a weight on our
shoulders that many of us couldn’t describe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The more I think about it, I think it was that we all knew someone’s
life would change forever and that Miss America 2013 was among us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In that moment, everything we all did seemed
to carry more importance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">DAY 9:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This one started really early for me…3:30 AM
in fact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was selected with Miss
California to do the Satellite Media Tour for Artistry and Amway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, we reported to the camera set at
4:15 AM and did interviews for TV stations around the country (about 35) about
Amway’s scholarship money, Artistry and Miss America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was an incredible opportunity and I am so
glad I got the experience of speaking with so many different media outlets in a
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was exhausting as I only got an
hour and 45 minutes of sleep but so worth it and great preparation for my job
as Miss Florida!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went straight to
rehearsal after doing the 4 hour media tour, then to a Sketchers commercial
shoot with Brooke Burke and then to a dinner at Burgr in Planet Hollywood
(yum).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am thankful MAO gave me the
chance to do so many media appearances while in Vegas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Promoting the Miss Florida organization was
very important to me and I feel I was able to get our name out there a great
deal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Day 10:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>FINALS:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some girls say they woke up on Saturday
morning with a sense of calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
think I necessarily had a sense of calm but I did have a strong sense that the
“right” thing was going to happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
felt the entire situation was in God’s hands and there was nothing any of us
could do to change the situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
enjoyed the final day with all the new friends I had made and tried to milk all
the moments for all they were worth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
fully prepared myself to make the top 15 and also to not make the top 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ate a bagel and a lot of mini Snickers bars
and got ready to watch someone’s life be changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will never forget standing backstage with
Miss Colorado, Miss Hawaii, Miss Illinois, Miss Puerto Rico, Miss Delaware and
Miss Arkansas right before we were about to go out on the Miss America stage
one last time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all cried a little bit
when the show started and we realized we were actually about to compete in Miss
America on live television.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a
surreal moment and I understand I’m in a small group of women who ever get to
experience it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I was incredibly honored to be called as a part of the top 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I was cut shortly after being called
and only did swimsuit, I was so thankful to even be a part of it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot say enough about how impressive each
and every one of these women are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
caliber of their character, class and compassion is astounding and I am so
excited to see what each one does to change the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our future is in great hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so happy for Miss America 2013, Mallory
Hagan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is so passionate about this
organization and she is a savvy business woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She will further MAO and her progress will be admired by all as she
touches many lives this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to compete in Miss America
and represent the state of Florida on a national level.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was constantly struck with how lucky I am
to have all the sponsors we have here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
cannot thank all of you enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ann
Marie Griffin: you have given me more than I could ever name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for all the beautiful clothes and
thank you for your constant support and kind words.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I received so many compliments on my wardrobe
throughout my week at Miss America and it got to the point where people would
ask, “Is that from Ann Marie too?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had
so many girls say they wished they had an “Ann Marie” too!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could not be happier with all the beautiful
clothes and it gives me great encouragement to keep hitting the gym so I can
still fit in them!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Speaking of the gym, special thanks to Matt and Hollie O’Brien.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Matt: you gave me the confidence to strut my
stuff in swimsuit and feel healthy and strong throughout a tough week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stayed healthy and energized the whole time
despite a severe lack of sleep and I firmly believe it’s thanks to all the
intense training that Matt put me through before I left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also feel stronger dancing than I ever have
and it’s all because of my work in the TrYumph gym!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hollie:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>thank you for making me look glamorous at Miss America with your amazing
makeup and hair skills!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was so nice
to not have to fool with my hair and makeup and know that it would be taken
care of by an absolute pro.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You made me
look like me with a little extra glam and I loved every minute in the hair and
makeup room with you! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I don’t even know where to start with my thank yous to the Miss Florida
board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mary: you prepared me better than
I ever thought I could be prepared for Miss America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have taught me so much and given me a
confidence I never thought I would have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am so excited to hit the ground running with you in Florida!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rob, Keith, Kitty, Dana, Kim and Ray: many
thanks for all of your support at Miss America and from a distance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your encouragement during Miss America kept
me going at times when I was worried I wasn’t doing enough to make Florida
proud.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What you all do for young women
is truly remarkable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">Thank you to my amazing parents who took a week out of their lives to
come and support me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As much as I don’t
like seeing my face on a large sign, I appreciate the signs and the love more
than you will ever know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know it’s
been a long 3 years in the pageant world but 10 pageants later, I am stronger,
more confident and ready to take on anything that comes my way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you mom, dad, Dave and Alex for helping
me in so many ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you to my
incredibly supportive and patient boyfriend Josh for sponsoring and reassuring
me throughout this process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You and your
amazing parents have offered wisdom and humor in moments that could have been
frustrating.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">The thank yous continue….Thank you to my amazing friends in Largo,
Florida.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Miss Largo board of
directors came along to support me in Vegas and it was so wonderful to have
them there for this journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you
to my best friend Olivia and her beautiful mom and sister for coming to cheer
me on and for all the fun over the years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Thank you to Kelly for the constant, incomparable humor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know what I would have done without
you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you to the Lupo family for
coming to join us and so many thanks to my gorgeous princess Leah Roddenberry
and her mom for being there as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
sure I’m leaving someone out but I could not be more appreciative of all the
wonderful cheerleaders I had in Vegas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was so humbling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;">I am so excited to get back to work in Florida.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am working now to schedule an array of
appearances and I am looking forward to promoting the Everglades Foundation as
well as my platform the Miracle League.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a year and an opportunity I will never take for granted and I am
eager to serve my state to the best of my ability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-2190378015185071142012-12-28T19:54:00.000-08:002012-12-28T19:58:03.747-08:00<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think reflection is so important. You can't truly appreciate where you are if you don't spend time thinking about how you got there. I'm currently drowning in sparkles trying to pack for Miss America and I can't help but laugh when I think about my life three years ago. If you had asked me to pick a contest I would eventually be in between Miss America and American Idol, I would have picked American Idol...and I can't sing for beans. The twists and turns a life can take are truly astounding. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I remember watching Miss America for the first time in 2010. I was vacationing in Canada with my family and we all gathered around to see who would win. This was the first time any of us had ever really watched it and I was completely in awe of the young women competing for the coveted title. At that point I was still trying to win my first local title in Florida. We all agreed that I would never make it to Miss America but we were truly impressed by the caliber of the women in the pageant. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fast forward to July of 2010 and my first time at Miss Florida. I had absolutely no idea what to expect and I was entirely overwhelmed by almost everything that happened there. Still, I loved every second of it. I was disappointed when I didn't get called for the top ten but I knew I would have another chance to make the cut and I tried to soak up the whole experience like a very absorbent sponge. I will never forget my interview that year. Mignon Merchant Ball (a former Miss Oklahoma) was one of the judges and she challenged me in the interview asking if I really felt anyone in the sports journalism world would take me seriously if I were to win Miss Florida. It made me think and it gave me a fiery passion to prove to the world why the Miss America Organization is relevant in every aspect of society. I never thought I would actually win Miss Florida, however. My goal was to talk to anyone and everyone I encountered in my sports TV and media life about Miss America. I was determined to dispel the stereotypes I knew existed in their minds.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In January 2011, I found out FOX Sports was hiring me to do the Tampa Bay Rays baseball broadcast as a reporter for the RaysLive Pre and Post game shows. It was a dream come true, especially since I was in my final semester at UF at the time and wanting to solidify a job when I left Gainesville in May. I found an apartment to move to in St. Petersburg and I began to study anything and everything I could find about American League baseball. I won Miss St. Petersburg 2011 and went to meet with the Executive Producer of FOX Sports Florida shortly after. He told me they had taken a big chance hiring me because I was only 22 and he said he hoped I would rise to the occasion and make him proud. He finished the meeting by telling me FOX was in full support of me competing in Miss Florida that summer and he understood that I would have to immediately quit my job if I won. He said he noticed a different poise about women who compete in the Miss America system. <b>To this day, I credit MAO as the main reason why I got a job with a national network at such a young age and for this reason, I will forever give back to the organization.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Miss Florida 2011 was so much fun. I wore my mom's favorite color pink in evening gown, I danced to my favorite ballet variation the Dying Swan and I got to spend a week with my best friend Olivia. During the questions for the top five, I was asked how I felt and I said something along the lines of "flabbergasted." That was the best word to describe my complete surprise at being in the top five and after placing as 2nd-runner-up I figured my pageant days were done. I was positive I couldn't place any higher than that and I went back to the baseball field and my career 3 days later.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fast forward to February 2012 (I promise I have a point here) and I was ready to give up my title as Miss St. Petersburg. I considered competing for a local title again briefly but everyone discouraged me saying, "why would you want to do that when you already have a great career that's taking off?" I figured they were right and I told myself to give up the dream of Miss Florida and move on. But, I still had one more year to compete. I knew I only had one more chance to be Miss Florida and I thought why not just try again? I promised myself I would only compete in one local pageant and if I didn't win a title there, I wasn't meant to go to Miss Florida again. I threw together a crazy lyrical dance (I hadn't put on my ballet shoes since the previous summer), dreaded putting on a swimsuit (I had eaten my fair share of hamburgers and cookies) and tried to do my best (whatever that was). I won Miss Pinellas County 2012 much to my surprise and realized that I actually had one more chance to win Miss Florida if it was meant to be.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shortly after winning Miss Pinellas County, I was hired to be FOX Sports' first ever social media reporter and I worked in Los Angeles for a couple of weeks doing the Pac 12 basketball tournament. FOX told me they had big plans for my future with them and let me know that baseball, basketball, football and really anything else would be possible for me very soon. Still, something didn't feel right. I felt like I wasn't doing anything to make the kind of difference I wanted to make. How was I helping anyone by just talking about sports on TV all the time? Yes, I loved what I did but I felt I needed to do something more, something different. I knew my chances of winning Miss Florida would be slim but I was certain I wanted to find a way to make community service and service to my state paramount in my life. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm not real big on watching my Miss Florida crowning moment because I look pretty ridiculous but I will say this: anytime I see any footage from Miss Florida 2012, I can tell I'm truly happy and I'm having so much fun. I couldn't even comprehend that I would have the chance to help the people I wanted to help and travel the state spreading the word about what our organization is. It still boggles my mind that 'little ole me' was given that honor. I haven't taken a single day for granted. Miss Florida will always be my favorite job. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The day after I won Miss Florida, I met with the Miss Florida board and my parents. I signed that I was contract-free and I was ready to put my career on hold. I knew it would be tough financially but I felt something would work out so I could get the necessary sponsorships to pay for my apartment and other expenses. I asked the Miss Florida board if there was any way to keep a part time role with FOX just to alleviate some of the living expenses and they said they didn't think it was possible but they would ask about it. The next day (Monday), I spoke with FOX Sports and told them I would not be able to continue working there because of my Miss Florida duties. They wished me the best of luck and I started unpacking my suitcases from Miss FL week. I was excited to start planning my appearances and hit the road as soon as possible to execute my plan in Florida.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It wasn't long before Mary Sullivan called me and simply asked if I had already quit my job. I said yes and asked her why and she responded with a little chuckle, "can you get it back?"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As it turned out, The Miss America Organization and the Miss Florida board agreed that I could continue to work as a broadcaster in a part-time, freelance capacity without a contract and under an agreement that would allow me to walk away at any time. FOX was fully on board with promoting what we do. I was relieved I would be able to pay for my apartment but I knew I would have a little bit of a juggling act to deal with. Miss Florida was and is my priority but I still had to be knowledgable and informed on national television. Sleep took a backseat and I got to work. Many times during the fall, I would do appearances in the morning, workout or rehearse my talent in the middle of the day, do a baseball broadcast at night and then research for football after that while planning appearances and wardrobe for the coming days. I loved every minute of the craziness, however and I feel so blessed to have these rewarding experiences. When football season started, I did appearances and Miss America prep during the week and then flew to my football game on the weekend. There were some hilarious moments where I would be doing a football coaches conference call while shoe shopping in NYC and trying to pay attention. I think Mary Sullivan probably learned more about football than she ever wanted to know but she stuck by my side through it all and has been an incredible source of encouragement, strength and humor. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I finished my last weekend of games on FOX with three back to back in three different states right after Thanksgiving. I flew to Colorado on Thanksgiving day for Colorado vs Utah on FX. The next night I flew to El Paso, TX for UTEP vs Rice and then the next day I headed to Los Angeles for USC vs San Diego State basketball. The entire month of December has been solely devoted to Miss America prep and I have had such a wonderful time getting ready with the Miss Florida board. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am determined to breathe in every last detail of the Miss America experience and embrace it as a definite highlight early in my life. It is an experience I never thought I'd have and I want to enjoy every part of it. I can't wait to tell my children and my grandchildren about it. I can't wait to laugh and cry when I reflect on it...and boy will I reflect on it. Thanks to the incredible support I have in Florida, I feel fully prepared to be Miss America. Who knows if that's in the cards for me but if it is, I am ready. I could not have been ready, however, if it weren't for all the amazing people who have given their time and their resources. I am thankful for this opportunity but even more thankful for the relationships I will treasure forever. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-9515780205339880822012-09-11T21:30:00.002-07:002012-09-11T21:30:31.794-07:00Chris Martin at Copperhead Salon is a genius! We are so lucky to have Chris as an amazing sponsor for Miss Florida's hair. He is the best in the business and he makes me feel like I can conquer anything that comes my way because, well, at least my hair looks good! It was great seeing him today and once again, I'm so thankful for all he gives us.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-36101621015395723792012-09-11T21:27:00.002-07:002012-09-11T21:27:56.020-07:00Picking my Miss America Placement...<br />
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The title of this blog entry is so hard to wrap my mind around. I know I probably sound like a broken record but this is a dream I never felt would become my reality. I always imagined I would watch other accomplished, powerful young women compete in Miss America and it truly amazes me that I too will have this opportunity. When I found out about the Miss America placement lottery system, I thought, "well, I don't really have a preference for where I go because I'm just glad to be there." Mary told me there have been Miss Floridas called last in the lottery so I was prepared for the comedy that would ensue if I was called last. Instead, I got called relatively early in the selection process and was able to pick a spot I'm very happy with. For those attending Miss America, I will be in the Alpha group number 14. This means I do talent on the first night of competition, on stage question the second night and evening gown and swimsuit the third. Even more exciting, I'm in the Alpha group with my two good friends Miss Colorado and Miss Arizona! I am really looking forward to a wonderful week in January with women I know will be great lifelong friends.<br />
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Speaking of lifelong friends, Ann Marie Griffin is an amazing woman I'm so honored to call my friend. I admire everything she does so much and once again, she impressed me so much with her generosity. Ann Marie stopped by Mary's house after the lottery selection with a wonderful gift just because. I am so incredibly lucky to be surrounded with incredible people who give their time selflessly.<br />
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Then, to top it all off, Ann Marie let me come shop in her store and gave me a number of beautiful pieces that I cannot wait to wear to appearances and to Miss America. Her store has so much selection and she is an angel to the Miss Florida Organization. I can never properly thank Ann Marie for all her kindness but I will certainly try and I highly recommend everyone visiting her store to see some of the new clothes she just got in! Thank you so much, Ann!</div>
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I knew I was fortunate to have Mary Sullivan's guidance when I was first learning about all I would do as Miss Florida but it becomes more and more apparent each day that her constant devotion to this organization is unparalleled. When we were picking my spot for Miss America, she sat there with me diligently until my name was called and then stayed at the computer with me until everything was finalized. I couldn't help but think about all the other girls picking their spots alone and I am so thankful that I am never alone in anything I do for Miss Florida because I always have Mary's wisdom and reassurance to lean on. I was able to spend some time at Mary's house again over the past week and I can already tell I'll miss being with her so much after this year is over. I am determined to soak everything she teaches me up like a sponge and enjoy all 365 days of this whirlwind year. Thank you, Mary for EVERYTHING you do.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-59162868683624617902012-09-04T16:00:00.001-07:002012-09-04T16:00:33.866-07:00Fun times in the gym with my personal trainer Matt O'Brien. He makes it entertaining and interesting while working me really hard! I'm so lucky to have his help! Check out this video:<br />
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http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=4186663540202Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-46885831640010936942012-08-28T17:19:00.001-07:002012-08-28T17:19:31.814-07:00A New Partnership!<br />
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I am excited to announce that my platform as Miss Florida will be The Miracle League!<br />
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This is an organization I've worked with a great deal for the last two years during my time as a broadcaster for Tampa Bay Rays baseball. The Miracle League in St. Petersburg is one of their partners and I got involved through MLB.<br />
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So, what is The Miracle League? <br />
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It's an incredible organization that gives people with disabilities an opportunity to play baseball and feel a sense of normalcy in their lives. Miracle League fields are made out of a rubberized surface that is compatible with mobility equipment of all kinds. Children and adults alike can hit a baseball and make their way around the bases alone or with the help of a buddy. Buddies are parents, volunteers, children and anyone who wants to help. The buddies are often referred to as "angels in the outfield."<br />
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Currently, there are about 250 Miracle Leagues around the country but I want to help make more. I don't think any person with disabilities should be deprived of the opportunity to play a game so many love. Also, it's not just about the game of baseball. This game is the foundation the organization is built on but the main focus is promoting a sense of normalcy for these children and adults and allowing them to interact with others who do not have disabilities. Baseball provides a common ground that creates a beautiful bond and bridges generation gaps easily. <br />
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The Miracle League headquarters are in Conyers, Georgia so my trip to Atlanta had an exciting purpose. I was able to officially partner with The Miracle League and meet with the Executive Director, Diane Alford and the Program Director Stephanie Davis. I learned so much from them about what they do on a daily basis to reach out to people with disabilities and how I can help. I am ready to devote as much time as possible to promoting their cause this year and all my years after as I strongly believe in what they're doing. <br />
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Here's the website for more information: www.miracleleague.com<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-85772373079340758692012-08-28T16:58:00.001-07:002012-08-28T16:58:42.275-07:00A trip to Atlanta!<br />
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My parents moved to Atlanta shortly after I won Miss Florida. No, they weren't trying to escape me (I think). This move was planned long before I competed as my dad's business is in Atlanta and he had been commuting back and forth to Florida for 10 years. So, I finally got a chance to visit them and see their new condo! It was so wonderful to see them as I have missed them so much but being Miss Florida doesn't give you much time to see your family or friends at all. This is part of the sacrifice you know you'll be making during your year of service to your state but it makes it that much better when you do finally get to see your beloved family. My brother Dave came too!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-89167222411855375442012-08-28T16:53:00.002-07:002012-08-28T16:53:42.867-07:00Saturday Morning Market<br />
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August 25th was a gorgeous morning for downtown St. Petersburg's Saturday Morning Market. Mary and I went down there for my scheduled appearance and had a blast. We checked out some very interesting offerings: a cheese stand, waffle stand, bacon sauce?, spices and much more. We even found a lion puppet for her grandson who is named Lion! Oh, and we were able to find some delicious vegetable chips. Man, those things are good! There's just something really special and relaxing about outdoor markets. I love them!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-24062943366686727562012-08-28T16:50:00.001-07:002012-08-28T16:50:13.948-07:00Miss America People's Choice Video Filming...<br />
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I started the filming for my Miss America's People's choice video on August 23rd. What an adventure. I don't want to give too much away but I will tell you this:<br />
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-A body of water is involved<br />
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-A burger is eaten<br />
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-New friends are made<br />
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-Old friends get involved<br />
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And, the rest is a secret! That is, until these videos are published. I'm really excited to see what every contestant comes up with this year!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-51973554962846855072012-08-28T16:46:00.000-07:002012-08-28T16:46:06.660-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you're ever in St. Petersburg, Florida and you're looking for something fulfilling to do, head over to All Children's Hospital. The facility is gorgeous, the doctors and nurses are so passionate about what they do and the children are incredible. I met so many brave youngsters who kept smiling even though they are battling hardship you never want to think about children facing. It almost brings you to tears meeting a 16-year-old girl who just got a pacemaker put in and all she wants to do is go back to school and be normal like the rest of her friends or a 3-month-old baby who has to have a feeding tube to eat. I admire the work of doctors and nurses more than I can say. I will be making many more visits to All Children's Hospital and other Children's Miracle Network Hospitals during my time as Miss Florida and after. Yes, a crown and sash do a great deal to instantly brighten a child's day but a smiling face and a hug can have the same lasting effects. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-17718007066371761062012-08-28T16:38:00.001-07:002012-08-28T16:38:48.630-07:00You know that feeling when you're so sore you can't walk and you're feeling muscles you've never felt before? Well, yeah, that's me this week. <div>
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I love spending so much time in the gym, however, and I'm so excited about all I'm learning from Matt O'Brien. I could not have asked for a better personal trainer and I can't stop recommending him to everyone I meet. Matt's philosophy and specific approach to each one of his clients is exceptional. He really devotes his whole life to making other peoples' lives better and he is giving so much time and effort to me as I prepare for Miss America. I am forever grateful to Matt and his beautiful wife Hollie for all their generosity. </div>
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PS- nothing like some hard core gloves in the gym to really make you feel intense...</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-19461044748293579212012-08-28T16:33:00.003-07:002012-08-28T16:33:43.843-07:00MAOTeen Week!<br />
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This week (August 14th-18th) was invigorating on so many levels. I have truly enjoyed getting to know Elizabeth Fechtel and watching her give up her crown and represent America so well all week was refreshing. She is an incredible young woman and I admire who she is and what she represents. Elizabeth has made Florida so proud and I am honored to know her. I can't wait to see what the future holds for this classy lady!<br />
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Cheering Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Jennifer Stehlin on was a blast too! I got to sit with the other Miss America 2013 contestants each night of competition and we had a wonderful time getting to know each other while rooting for our teens. It was inspiring to watch women so young and yet so poised, intelligent and talented. I left Orlando feeling much better about what's in store for the generation of girls coming after my age group. There were future business women, television stars, singers, dancers, teachers, great mothers and doctors in this group of America's teenagers. Their talents were astounding. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-12313464910622492522012-08-28T15:14:00.002-07:002012-08-28T15:14:49.214-07:00Speaking of selfless generosity, Chris Martin at Copperhead Salon is another example of a wonderfully giving heart. I popped in on Chris last minute before and during Miss America's Outstanding Teen pageant in Orlando and he worked his magic to get me in his schedule both times. I can never thank him enough for all he does for Miss Florida. Also, so fun to see one of my friends and fellow Miss Florida contestant Lauren Chase who is working at Copperhead! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-57881650993438451762012-08-28T15:11:00.000-07:002012-08-28T15:11:54.064-07:00A trip to the dentist...<br />
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Miss Florida is so fortunate to have amazing sponsors. One of them, Dr. Falco at Smile Design Studio in Orlando, has truly impressed me as a representative of a genuinely giving heart. I came to see Dr. Falco on August 14th and I left with a new perspective on my smile...and a filling for an unwelcome cavity. <br />
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I knew Dr. Falco was a cool dude when I walked in his office and saw this guy...<br />
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Trying not to laugh, I inquired about the purpose of this drum player. I was instantly at ease with Dr. Falco when he told me simply, "I don't really know what he is but I just like it." Well, me too, Doc!</div>
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I had to admit to Dr. Falco and his assistants that I hadn't been to the dentist in over 2 years (jeepers!) so I figured things were going to get a bit rough...literally. But, this group never stopped smiling despite a scraping/brushing/flossing situation that must have been anything but pleasant. Much to my surprise, I only had one cavity so they patched that baby up and sent me on my way...with a numb mouth, of course. I was going to see Mary Sullivan later so I was thrilled when my mouth decided to regain feeling again as I could only imagine her averse reaction to me not being able to speak. Thank you, again, Dr. Falco for all of your generosity!</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-46426580887843871582012-08-10T17:46:00.001-07:002012-08-10T17:46:11.449-07:00My business card! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-Tdwg6umuQVR7jwu60o8be3CDTzTY3m2Mc-WTjs4hsdaepx7-OFFCtwmP0NrIewZANT8DvO45mziH1PrAuGIzOdLfRJGmLAPTYn7LFO6FZdz0IvW-M2jfN6JK6ASfWp7HE8wjmFdJdk/s1600/IMG_1734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-Tdwg6umuQVR7jwu60o8be3CDTzTY3m2Mc-WTjs4hsdaepx7-OFFCtwmP0NrIewZANT8DvO45mziH1PrAuGIzOdLfRJGmLAPTYn7LFO6FZdz0IvW-M2jfN6JK6ASfWp7HE8wjmFdJdk/s320/IMG_1734.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Special thanks to Deanna Meredith for this photo and Tiffany Johnson for hair and makeup.<br />
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I still can't believe I'm Miss Florida. Such a surreal feeling.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-21702133260914089852012-08-10T17:44:00.001-07:002012-08-10T17:44:33.614-07:00TRENDZ CLOTHING SHOW:<br />
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Mary, Ann Marie Griffin and I made the trek to West Palm Beach for the Trendz Clothing show on Sunday, August 5th. I'm still getting used to receiving clothes sponsored by Ann Marie as I've always been accustomed to having to pay for everything. I can't say this enough: Ann Marie is such a kind, generous person and Miss Florida is extremely fortunate to have a clothing sponsor. I will never take this generosity for granted.<br />
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Trendz is heaven for anyone who loves clothes. We immediately headed over to the Joseph Ribkoff booth and got to see some of the newest designs they will debut in the fall. I ordered some amazing pieces that I'm so excited about wearing. A special thanks to Joseph Ribkoff for all of the help and fun times on Sunday! I was practically pinching myself the whole time trying to make sure it wasn't all a dream. I'm still pretty sure it all happened and I couldn't be more thankful for everything. <br />
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I filmed a commercial in one of the Joseph Ribkoff dresses Ann Marie sponsored for me. Here it is:<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-53995770631800919652012-08-10T17:38:00.005-07:002012-08-10T17:38:58.328-07:00I am thrilled to announce that I'll be training with Matt O'Brien to prepare for Miss America! Matt is an expert in physical fitness and a published author. I would highly recommend checking out his book The Magic Pill! This is an opportunity to transform your body, transform your life and live longer doing it. I'm already so impressed with Matt's philosophy on fitness and how to educate a nutrition ignorant America. Here's his website:<br />
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http://www.readthemagicpill.com/Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-72339805678525149862012-08-10T17:34:00.001-07:002012-08-10T17:34:27.056-07:00August 3rd: A special afternoon with Bob Clark.<br />
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Miss Tampa Director Bob Clark is an incredible human being. He invited me to one of his famous Friday luncheons at the Columbia Restaurant and it was such a rewarding experience. This man has figured out a way to bring people together and help them help each other while enjoying good food and great conversation. Basically, he's subtly setting up wonderful connections and as he says, "This all started trying to help one of my friends find a husband and a job." Of course, this friend of his found both thanks to Mr. Clark's Friday lunches and the success has only continued. <br />
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Career advancement is often credited to hard work and dedication but there's also that little thing called connection that can skyrocket a person's job situation or personal life. Just being friendly has so much to do with moving up any ladder you're presented with and Bob has mastered this idea with his promotion of fellowship among influential community members. I was honored to listen to everyone at the table talk about their service, their careers and their love for the state of Florida. I'm hoping to attend another luncheon with Bob as I learned so much from these experienced people in a matter of thirty minutes. They all had a unique story, different experiences and subsequently varied advice on a multitude of matters. Bob, with his unassuming yet dynamic presence has an uncanny ability to make people comfortable and embrace what makes them powerful in their own skin. I hope to harness a little of his magic and use it to help those I come across as well.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-67673788867476105212012-08-10T17:20:00.002-07:002012-08-10T17:47:11.808-07:00Camp Mary has come to a close...<br />
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After a wealth of fun, laughter, good food, Miss America paperwork and excitement, I finally packed up my car to head back to St. Petersburg. It was bittersweet because I have had so much fun living with Mary and her husband Bill in their beautiful home but I also know I'll be back soon. Mary is such a generous hostess and now I know exactly what former Miss Floridas are talking about when they say they didn't want to leave her home. <br />
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I left feeling confident and excited about my Miss America paperwork. Mary always reminds me, the paperwork is the first impression. One stray word, one misrepresentation, one grammatical error can make all the difference. It may seem like overkill but we went through that paperwork hundreds of times doing our best to perfect it and tweak it while maintaining a vibrance to it that I think will be so important. I can't thank Mary enough for spending hours toiling over these forms and making sure they were excellent. <br />
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I am getting more and more excited about Miss America's Outstanding Teen Pageant coming up in Orlando. First of all, I can't wait to cheer on Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Jennifer and second, I am eagerly anticipating meeting all of my fellow Miss America contestants. I know new friendships will be formed and I know I'll learn so much from these young women. It will be an honor to be in their company.<br />
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With MFOT Jennifer at Ann Marie's!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-6146385823875488652012-08-10T17:12:00.001-07:002012-08-10T17:12:31.017-07:00July 31st..... HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MISS FLORIDA DIRECTOR MARY SULLIVAN!<br />
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Mary is always giving to everyone else so it was fun to have a day where people could give to her. Ann Marie Griffin took us out to dinner for a beautiful meal at Mary's favorite, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. It was delicious and I have so much fun listening to these ladies talk. It's the perfect combination of intelligence, humor and poise.<br />
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We also went out to lunch with Mary's daughter Summer and her grandson Lion as part of our birthday festivities. It was wonderful meeting new mom Summer and watching Mary take care of Lion in the restaurant. She is so good with children! I bought Mary a cake and some of her favorite goodies (Starbucks cake pops, Reese's mini peanut butter cups...) and we enjoyed those after dinner. I figured it was a win-win situation because I got to eat some too :)</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-52270047135822345182012-08-01T10:21:00.001-07:002012-08-01T10:21:22.005-07:00An Adventure at the Ballpark...<br />
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I've spent a lot of time in stadiums over the past few years but I've never seen anything quite like the new Marlins Park. It is the epitome of Miami...colorful, exotic, fun, classy, playful, exciting...well, you get the picture.<br />
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Robert Castro (Miss Florida Organization's graphic designer and so much more) went out of his way to set up our day at Marlins Park. He knows I love baseball and he arranged all of this for me. I could not be more grateful. It was such a fun day.<br />
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We learned a few days before the game that I would be throwing out the first pitch. Now, just because I watch a lot of baseball doesn't mean I can actually play baseball...or even throw a ball for that matter. So, naturally, I figured everyone was in for a good laugh. When we arrived at the park, we learned that a dog was also throwing out the first pitch. Based on what I know about canine anatomy, I figured this would be difficult. Mary and I were forced to inquire about this dog's pitch as we were concerned I would be holding the dog while throwing my ball and we knew that wouldn't do anyone any favors. It was then that we discovered there were quite a few pitchers involved in the pre-game festivities at Marlins Park on this particular Sunday. I was one of many throwing out the first pitch and I instantly felt better about it. I threw some warm up pitches and my arm was feeling good. I was ready to go.<br />
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And then the time came for me to make my way to the mound for my first pitch. Somehow, in the time it took me to walk to the mound, my pants began to fall down a little. Here's proof:<br />
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So, with my sagging pants and racing heart, I geared up to throw my pitch. Mind you, the plate seemed MUCH further away from the mound at that point and I wasn't even standing on the mound. Needless to say, my pitch bounced. What do they tell you NOT to do when you throw a first pitch? Bounce it. I bounced the dickens out of that pitch. </div>
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All you can do is laugh about that abysmal attempt to throw a first pitch. We went to our seats soon after and enjoyed the game for a couple of innings before walking around the amazing park. It was about 95 degrees outside so an outdoor game would have been a sweat bath. But, Marlins Park can close it's roof and turn on the AC for a very pleasant fan experience. We visited the Bobblehead Museum...</div>
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Met Marlins manager Ozzie Guillen...</div>
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And I did some TV hits for Marlins Vision:</div>
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Everybody at the park was so hospitable and we enjoyed all the areas we visited and the people we met. The game was an exciting one as it went into extra innings and the Marlins came away with a win! </div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-29523311463942657602012-07-28T11:01:00.001-07:002012-07-28T11:01:14.938-07:00It's already day 9 of "Camp Mary" and I'm having a blast. Mary Sullivan is so much fun. This won't come as a surprise to anyone who knows me personally but I absolutely love to laugh and I find humor in almost everything (sometimes a good thing, sometimes not) so we spend a lot of time giggling. Mary is clever, fun, insightful, and kind. To the next Miss Florida: make sure you enjoy her.<div>
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On July 25th I did a fun interview with Emerald Coast Magazine. This magazine tells the stories of people with ties to the Destin, FL Panhandle area. My family moved there when I was 10 and we lived in the area for three years during my awkward middle school years. Of course people that might remember me from that area and ages 10 to 13 are appalled at the idea of me winning Miss Anything (I don't blame them). But, this interview was a wonderful trip down memory lane. We talked about the sparkling white sands, the delicious fresh seafood, sunsets where the sun melted into the ocean like butter on a biscuit and a crucial part of my childhood. Some of my best memories were from these years in Blue Mountain Beach playing by the sea and learning to embrace what I could become.</div>
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Mary and I trekked up to Orlando in the afternoon on the 25th to make sure we were already in O-Town for a hair appointment and head shot photos the next day. We stopped by Regalia to visit with Carry O'Neil and see Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen Jennifer try on a few dresses. I don't envy Jennifer as her pageant is right around the corner but she is going to be ready and she will represent this state wonderfully. We stopped by Copperhead Salon to see Chris Martin and he gave me a new do that is much more manageable and current. I had some crazy long Rapunzel locks going at Miss Florida but this hair cut is great as Miss Florida should be modern young woman. Chris Martin at Copperhead is an incredibly talented hairdresser but, more importantly, he radiates kindness. Chris and his wife Jen are so giving and their love for the Miss Florida pageant comes from a genuine place. I could never express how thankful I am to have Chris in my life as a friend and not just a hair magician. Speaking of magicians, our next stop was Deanna Meredith's photography studio. She took some beautiful pictures which is very hard to do because I don't take good pictures. I am so impressed by her and she made our shoot exciting and fun. Thank you SO much Chris and Deanna! Now Mary gets to embark on the exhausting journey of picking the right headshot for Miss America. I'm pretty sure she's having nightmares about my face where my potential headshots are dancing like sugar plums in her head. Terrifying.</div>
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July 27th: My first meeting with The Everglades Foundation. Miss Florida's partnership with this amazing organization has always fascinated me and I could not be more excited about the work I will be doing with them. They understand the value Miss Florida can bring to their cause and we understand the benefits our organization can reap just by being associated with The Everglades Foundation. It is a beautiful relationship that has grown and evolved every year with each different Miss Florida. I plan to put my own stamp on it but I am so thankful to the Miss Floridas that came before me and paved the way for the rest of us to have this enriching opportunity. Mary and I met the new CEO of The Everglades Foundation, Eric Eikenberg and we talked about the plans he has to use Miss Florida this year, their internal mission, and even a little Major League Baseball. I learned so much about this ecosystem that supplies 7 million Floridians with water. Here are a few quick facts I found interesting:</div>
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-On average, each Floridian uses 180 gallons of water a day and one out of every 3 Floridians rely on the Everglades for their water supply. </div>
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-For every dollar invested in Everglades restoration, $4 are generated in return with the real estate sector benefiting most from improved water quality.</div>
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-Everglades restoration will generate about 442,664 jobs over 50 years.</div>
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-The freshwater Everglades ecosystem is currently less than half its original size...about 2 million acres of the ecosystem have been lost.</div>
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But, the main point that really stuck out to me in our initial meeting is this: water is not a renewable resource. We have to conserve what we have and work to make sure our children and grandchildren will have water in their lives. What we do now directly affects the future generations that will need this water to survive. </div>
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I encourage everyone to go to The Everglades Foundation website www.evergladesfoundation.org and learn more. This is a cause I will be talking about often but it's worth familiarizing yourself with and finding out how you can help.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With The Everglades Foundation's new CEO Eric Eikenberg</td></tr>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-39095561626327828052012-07-22T10:04:00.000-07:002012-07-28T07:39:33.080-07:00July 21st: According to the dictionary, a 'classy' person is stylish, admirably smart and elegant. I cannot think of a better description for Ann Marie Griffin. <br />
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Ann Marie is so generous and she genuinely cares about the Miss Florida Organization and what it stands for. Mary, Ann Marie and I had a wonderful time in her new store. I am so excited about all of the beautiful clothes she is so kind to give to me and I can't wait to wear them everywhere! If you haven't visited her store yet, you need to. It is gorgeous and she has so many beautiful dresses and outfits. Her new location in Homestead, FL is at 606 Washington Avenue.<br />
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Take a look at her website as well: http://annmariesbridalboutique.com/<br />
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After trying on clothes, we went to a lovely dinner in Homestead. Somehow we started talking about one of our favorite culinary phenomenons: Starbucks cake pops. Ann Marie informed Mary and me that there was a recall on the birthday cake pop pink icing because the dye was made with some sort of bug. Of course, we were appalled but it lead to lots of laughter. Thank you, Ann Marie for a wonderful evening.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1226658065083845405.post-55980224645792494482012-07-21T10:10:00.000-07:002012-07-21T10:10:17.734-07:00July 19th: At what point do you put the crown on when you're driving to an appearance? If you put it on before you start driving to an appearance, you're bound to run into some interesting characters on the road wondering why on earth some girl is driving around with a crown on her head. If you arrive without a crown on, people may say, "Shouldn't Miss Florida have her crown on?" After much thought and consultation of those who know more than me about these things, I've come to the conclusion that you should find a secret place to park your car and put it on right before you reach your destination. Problem solved.<br />
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Once I finally got my crown on today, I attended the Westminster Shores Groundbreaking Ceremony. Westminster Shores is a retirement community in St. Petersburg and they are opening a new building for residents to move into soon so this ceremony was honoring their addition. We did a full on breaking of the ground which meant I had to shovel some dirt with the Mayor, city council members and some other contributors. Apparently I didn't know my own strength because I dug the deepest hole of anyone and had to quickly fill it back in before anyone noticed I had broken too much ground. <br />
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My tip of the day: if you're going to any appearance that may be outside or may require standing in dirt, it's wise to wear wedges. This may seem like a no brainer but I wished I had used my brain when getting dressed as I sunk deeper and deeper into the sand. The man next to me said, "Are you getting shorter?"<br />
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One of the speakers at the ceremony said a great quote: "Striving for excellence is inspiring. Striving for perfection is demoralizing." His point, of course, was based around building this new complex but I love this quote because it's something I struggle with every day. Always trying to be perfect is simply exhausting whereas excellence is attainable and motivating. Learning to accept that you can't do everything perfectly is a big step in the right direction on the path of excellence.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01028094334680979436noreply@blogger.com0