Wow, It has been FOREVER since I have blogged...lets see if I can catch up a little!!
I attended the Viva Brasil Festival at the University of Chicago...WOW, what an experience! I learned SO much about the brazilian coulture. There was food(amazing!), dancing, music, and more! I think maybe I should've brushed up on some portugese...I didn't have a clue what some people said to me! haha But that was an awesome experience.
Then I attended and was a guest speaker at the Teen Challenge-Decatur Annual Banquet. I spoke about hope and how the organization is doing a great thing! Teen Challenge is a girl's rehabilitation center for girls struggling with addiction. I had such a great time speaking to the girls and I hope to make a trip to the center soon!
Then is was on to the Cisco's Showcase! It was SO much fun. I helped pass out awards, gifts to the cancer survivors, and read raffle tickets. Listening to all the cancer survivors stories were so inspirational and heart felt. I truly came away from the day with a new appreciation of life! My younger sister Julia, was crowned as the National Health Ambassador. I was so happy for her! My feet REALLY hurt after the event, but it was a blast. Miss Catherine even came into town!! =)
Then it was March of Dimes Signature Chef's Event Season!! My favorite time of the year, next to the holidays anyway. =) I attended and modeled the "chance of the evening"-a diamond watch at the Crystal Lake Event. We raised $23,000!
Then I headed to Springfield for that Chef's Event. I once again modeled the "chance of the evening" and sold raffle tickets during the event-but this time I spent the day helping to set everything up!! At that event we raised $80,000! Wow!
Then back to my hometown of Decatur...we spent weeks planning, collecting donations, putting the silent auction together, and so much more!! Finally the day of the event came, and I was in charge of the chef's and making sure everything ran smoothly. During the live auction, I took a moment to speak to the crowd-straight from my heart about how we need to raise money to save these babies! Our Decatur event raised $35,000!
Then last but not least, we went to Champaign for the last of the events for the year. We spent the day setting up, getting papers in order, and lots more. I sold tickets for the "heads or tails" contest-which was a funny game! The Champaign Event raised over $60,000!
Whew! We had an awesome SCA season for the March of Dimes. Now, while planning these events, helping to pull everything together, and getting in a tiny bit of sleep, I was making TV appearances, radio interviews, and spreading the word about this awesome organization! I have never been SO tired, but it was worth it.
After all that I went to the Noon Women's Network Luncheon to speak about my experiences in pageants, my competitions, and the goods/bads of pageants. I spoke for over an hour-but was scheduled for only 20 minutes! I loved every minute of it.
Now while all this was going on, I secretly was raising money and preparing for my first ever Miss pageant. Thanksgiving Week I headed to CA for the National All-American Miss pageant. After a long, but amazingly fun week I ended up 1st runner up overall-I have never before made a Top 5, so I was SO excited! I am so proud of myself. I also placed in the following-1st runner up Casual Wear Modeling(2nd year in a row I made top 5!), 3rd runner up Talent(2nd year in a row!), 2nd Runner up Most Promising Model(I have never not placed in this), 1st runner up Best Thank You Note, and Winner of Scrapbook(2nd year in a row!)...I was SO proud.
I also am trying to squeeze in time to recruit for the state pageant, apply to college, sell some old stuff on ebay, and trying to remember to breathe. =) Being busy is my life!!
now I am preparing for my first ever Miss Illinois prelim-Miss -------- --------. You didn't think I'd tell you just yet? haha I am so excited to take a leap into the Miss division of pageants, and am so excited for the support of my directors! I love you both. I am raising money for the Children's Miracle Network-so if you would like to donate, please let me know!!
So for now, I am preparing for Christmas and my 19th birthday-the 26th!
Merry Christmas to all.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
You can follow me on facebook-just look me up and add me!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The summer AFTER Nationals...
Well its been a while since nationals, but I didn't hardly get a break at all!! Here is what I did with my summer:
About a week after Nationals I headed to St. Louis, MO for my International POA(Pony Of the Americas)Show. I showed my 4 y/o Mare "Lucy" and we placed in 7 out of our 9 pleasure classes, and in Most Colorful(Halter Mare). I also showed my pony "Snickers" and we won the Versatility Barrels class, and placed in 4 games. During the week I graduated from POA as a youth. I think it was an amazing way to end my youth showing career.
Very soon after that I went to WI for my cousin's wedding and just a bit of a vacation...but it was cold and rainy most of the time we were there...bummer! I still managed to get on the freezing cold lake and tubed for a while.
THEN my biggest adventure of the summer was climbing a MOUNTAIN(Mt. Elbert in Colorado) with my dad and older brother...WOW, whoever said it was EASY to climb a mountain-has never climbed a mountain. It was SO much harder than I ever imagined it would be...and at 12,000ft the alttitude started getting to me and I had to turn back just 2,000ft from the summit. I learned mountain climbing was EXTREMELY hard! But it was so beautiful and majestic!
This past Monday I met the Mayor of Decatur...he is Such a funny guy! He gave me the "key" to the city, an award they give to outstanding individuals in the community. I was so honored and proud to get this award! He then said he is going to be contacting the local magazinge and newspaper to have then write a story or two...how cool is that?! Then I had the opportunity to invite him to the March of Dimes Signature Chef's Event and Auction...he said of course he would love to be there! I felt pretty cool that I got the MAYOR to come to our event.
Now I will be busy doing appearances here, there, and everywhere! I'll try to keep up with it better this time!!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
About a week after Nationals I headed to St. Louis, MO for my International POA(Pony Of the Americas)Show. I showed my 4 y/o Mare "Lucy" and we placed in 7 out of our 9 pleasure classes, and in Most Colorful(Halter Mare). I also showed my pony "Snickers" and we won the Versatility Barrels class, and placed in 4 games. During the week I graduated from POA as a youth. I think it was an amazing way to end my youth showing career.
Very soon after that I went to WI for my cousin's wedding and just a bit of a vacation...but it was cold and rainy most of the time we were there...bummer! I still managed to get on the freezing cold lake and tubed for a while.
THEN my biggest adventure of the summer was climbing a MOUNTAIN(Mt. Elbert in Colorado) with my dad and older brother...WOW, whoever said it was EASY to climb a mountain-has never climbed a mountain. It was SO much harder than I ever imagined it would be...and at 12,000ft the alttitude started getting to me and I had to turn back just 2,000ft from the summit. I learned mountain climbing was EXTREMELY hard! But it was so beautiful and majestic!
This past Monday I met the Mayor of Decatur...he is Such a funny guy! He gave me the "key" to the city, an award they give to outstanding individuals in the community. I was so honored and proud to get this award! He then said he is going to be contacting the local magazinge and newspaper to have then write a story or two...how cool is that?! Then I had the opportunity to invite him to the March of Dimes Signature Chef's Event and Auction...he said of course he would love to be there! I felt pretty cool that I got the MAYOR to come to our event.
Now I will be busy doing appearances here, there, and everywhere! I'll try to keep up with it better this time!!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
Miss Teen United States-World Nationals 2009!
Wow! This summer has FLOWN by...
I am going to try to recap on Nationals...and much more!
Sunday, July 5th, 2009
I left for the airport(from my best friend's house) at about 7am!
After checking all my luggage in, getting through security, getting to my gate, taking my dramamine(I get VERY airsick...ugh!)...around 9:15am I boarded my flight. Take off and landing were smooth and since I slept through the flight, it was no big deal to me! I landed around 11am(in St. Paul, MN), but I didn't leave for Houston until around 2:30pm! I founf the gate I would be leaving from...and NAPPED! Finally I boarded the flight to Houston...the take off was fine, but landing was a bit bumpy...not cool. I then found baggage claim, but the baggage got backed up and so it took even longer to get my luggage...then I waited with my cart FULL of luggage for the SuperShuttle...when it finally arrived and I eventually got to the hotel it was after 6pm...I was more than exhausted! I checked in and got everything into my room...ordered some MUCH needed room service, moved the desk chair to my tiny little balcony, and called almost all my gal friends and chatted for a while...then conked out around 11pm. What a day.
Monday, July 6th, 2009
ITS CHECK IN DAY!!
I woke up and waisted a bunch of time, checked out of my room, waisted a bit more time, checked into my NEW room, waisted a bit more time, then Miss WI U.S. Int'l(who I am friends with and I was there when she was crowned) arrived so we went to California Pizza Kitchen for lunch...its was SUPER yummy...but it took us forever to find just pain PEPPERONI PIZZA...who knew?! We then went back to the hotel and got ready for Orientation(which was a few hours away) so we decided to go to the Galleria Mall(ITS HUGE)...after a while we were back to the hotel for Orientation! After the Directors, Chaperones, Producer, and Hair/Make-up people all spoke to us, we had to be truthful and tell the choreographers if we COULD dance and the MC who our Role Model was and Why...LONG night. After all the excitement one of my best friends(who happened to be Miss Teen Georgia World) McKenzie and I went back to the galleria for a DELICIOUS Sushi dinner...then after getting lost IN the mall we went outside and walked around the whole place, finally found the car back to the hotel...and I went straight to bed!
Tuesday, July 7th, 2009
It was a STRESSFUL morning! I woke up around 6am to go get my hair/make-up done for the Swimsuit Photoshoot...Of course it WAS pouring rain today. After mix ups, curls not taking, and one thing or another I myself got to the lobby for the photo around 10:35am-it was supposed to start at 10am. UGH. Oh well, things happen...the day moved on! We had rehearsals all day, dinner, then even MORE rehearsals! My feet were aching by the end of the day! But I had the bright idea to go get spray tanned at 1am(its the soonest I could get in)...then off to bed for 3 or so hours of sleep! :(
Wednesday, July 8th, 2009
PRELIMS DAY! I couldn't be more excited!
Started my day at 4:45am!! Had my hair put in pin curls and my makeup done...then I went down for breakfast, ate, went back to my room and waited around for a bit, then off to ALL day rehearsals! I mean ALL day! We had lunch around 12:30pm(which I shared with my sister queen Saryna!!)...had MORE rehearsals, then around 5pm we were released to get ready for the Preliminary Show...Prelims started and finished-it was SO much fun! I competed in Swimsuit and Evening Gown...and LOVED it. My Director Mama C and my Mommy/2 younger sibllings were there cheering me on! After the VERY long day I was back to my room to order room service, eat, and go to bed...it was after 1am at this point. Another night of 3 hours of sleep...
Thursday, July 9th, 2009
INTERVIEWS.
I started my day AGAIN at 4:45am...I was SO tired! I had my hair/makeup done(while eating breakfast-nifty)...then around 8:45am I went down for my Interview-but they were running behind so around 9:45am I had my interview. It went great! I had never felt so confident in an interview before, it was great. Then I went back to my room and changed into comfy clothes for rehearsals...and they lasted ALL day. I got to have lunch with my mommy, but then was back into rehearsals(which half of the girls forgot about and missed...ooops!) My brain was hurting as bad as my feet at this point! Finally around 12am I got into bed.
Friday, July 10th, 2009
FINALS-the nerves are hitting!!
I got to start my day around 6am(thank goodness!!), hair/make-up was done...then off to the PErforming Arts Center for rehearsals ALL day!! Everything ached, it was FREEZING in the theater, we were all way past tired and grouchy at this point, but the smiles stayed on and I worked through it! Then after a whole day FILLED with rehearsals, it was time for the final pageant...here is how it played out:
-Opening Number was so fun.
-after O.N. we said out introductions
-After Intros they called out the Top 15-boy I was a BUCKET of nerves...I was actually shaking.
-I made it into the Top 15!! I was SO super excited and shocked.
-I RAN to the dressing room, got my swimsuit on, and went running back to the stage
-I RE-Competed in Swimsuit
-After swimsuit they called out the Top 10-nerves were boiling over!!
-I was the LAST girl to get called in the Top 10! I was in tears with excitement! WOW, I had just made Top 10!
-I went running back to the dressing room again to get ready for evening gown
-Back onstage were I RE-Competed in Evening Gown
-After E.G. the Top 5 was called...I didn't make it, but I was still SO proud of myself!
-The new Miss Teen United States-World was crowned!
-THEN it was back to the dressing room to get everything together, change into my cocktail dress, board the bus, and head back to the hotel for the Coronation Ball
-We had a BLAST dancing and singing at the Coronation Ball-too much fun!!
Finally after the LONG, EXHAUSTING, COLD(Hotel and Theater), Sore(everything!!), EXCITING, and most of all Rewarding week...I slept like a baby!
After everything my mommy, me, and 2younger siblings drove the 17 hours back home from Houston.
I learned alot, like I always do!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
I am going to try to recap on Nationals...and much more!
Sunday, July 5th, 2009
I left for the airport(from my best friend's house) at about 7am!
After checking all my luggage in, getting through security, getting to my gate, taking my dramamine(I get VERY airsick...ugh!)...around 9:15am I boarded my flight. Take off and landing were smooth and since I slept through the flight, it was no big deal to me! I landed around 11am(in St. Paul, MN), but I didn't leave for Houston until around 2:30pm! I founf the gate I would be leaving from...and NAPPED! Finally I boarded the flight to Houston...the take off was fine, but landing was a bit bumpy...not cool. I then found baggage claim, but the baggage got backed up and so it took even longer to get my luggage...then I waited with my cart FULL of luggage for the SuperShuttle...when it finally arrived and I eventually got to the hotel it was after 6pm...I was more than exhausted! I checked in and got everything into my room...ordered some MUCH needed room service, moved the desk chair to my tiny little balcony, and called almost all my gal friends and chatted for a while...then conked out around 11pm. What a day.
Monday, July 6th, 2009
ITS CHECK IN DAY!!
I woke up and waisted a bunch of time, checked out of my room, waisted a bit more time, checked into my NEW room, waisted a bit more time, then Miss WI U.S. Int'l(who I am friends with and I was there when she was crowned) arrived so we went to California Pizza Kitchen for lunch...its was SUPER yummy...but it took us forever to find just pain PEPPERONI PIZZA...who knew?! We then went back to the hotel and got ready for Orientation(which was a few hours away) so we decided to go to the Galleria Mall(ITS HUGE)...after a while we were back to the hotel for Orientation! After the Directors, Chaperones, Producer, and Hair/Make-up people all spoke to us, we had to be truthful and tell the choreographers if we COULD dance and the MC who our Role Model was and Why...LONG night. After all the excitement one of my best friends(who happened to be Miss Teen Georgia World) McKenzie and I went back to the galleria for a DELICIOUS Sushi dinner...then after getting lost IN the mall we went outside and walked around the whole place, finally found the car back to the hotel...and I went straight to bed!
Tuesday, July 7th, 2009
It was a STRESSFUL morning! I woke up around 6am to go get my hair/make-up done for the Swimsuit Photoshoot...Of course it WAS pouring rain today. After mix ups, curls not taking, and one thing or another I myself got to the lobby for the photo around 10:35am-it was supposed to start at 10am. UGH. Oh well, things happen...the day moved on! We had rehearsals all day, dinner, then even MORE rehearsals! My feet were aching by the end of the day! But I had the bright idea to go get spray tanned at 1am(its the soonest I could get in)...then off to bed for 3 or so hours of sleep! :(
Wednesday, July 8th, 2009
PRELIMS DAY! I couldn't be more excited!
Started my day at 4:45am!! Had my hair put in pin curls and my makeup done...then I went down for breakfast, ate, went back to my room and waited around for a bit, then off to ALL day rehearsals! I mean ALL day! We had lunch around 12:30pm(which I shared with my sister queen Saryna!!)...had MORE rehearsals, then around 5pm we were released to get ready for the Preliminary Show...Prelims started and finished-it was SO much fun! I competed in Swimsuit and Evening Gown...and LOVED it. My Director Mama C and my Mommy/2 younger sibllings were there cheering me on! After the VERY long day I was back to my room to order room service, eat, and go to bed...it was after 1am at this point. Another night of 3 hours of sleep...
Thursday, July 9th, 2009
INTERVIEWS.
I started my day AGAIN at 4:45am...I was SO tired! I had my hair/makeup done(while eating breakfast-nifty)...then around 8:45am I went down for my Interview-but they were running behind so around 9:45am I had my interview. It went great! I had never felt so confident in an interview before, it was great. Then I went back to my room and changed into comfy clothes for rehearsals...and they lasted ALL day. I got to have lunch with my mommy, but then was back into rehearsals(which half of the girls forgot about and missed...ooops!) My brain was hurting as bad as my feet at this point! Finally around 12am I got into bed.
Friday, July 10th, 2009
FINALS-the nerves are hitting!!
I got to start my day around 6am(thank goodness!!), hair/make-up was done...then off to the PErforming Arts Center for rehearsals ALL day!! Everything ached, it was FREEZING in the theater, we were all way past tired and grouchy at this point, but the smiles stayed on and I worked through it! Then after a whole day FILLED with rehearsals, it was time for the final pageant...here is how it played out:
-Opening Number was so fun.
-after O.N. we said out introductions
-After Intros they called out the Top 15-boy I was a BUCKET of nerves...I was actually shaking.
-I made it into the Top 15!! I was SO super excited and shocked.
-I RAN to the dressing room, got my swimsuit on, and went running back to the stage
-I RE-Competed in Swimsuit
-After swimsuit they called out the Top 10-nerves were boiling over!!
-I was the LAST girl to get called in the Top 10! I was in tears with excitement! WOW, I had just made Top 10!
-I went running back to the dressing room again to get ready for evening gown
-Back onstage were I RE-Competed in Evening Gown
-After E.G. the Top 5 was called...I didn't make it, but I was still SO proud of myself!
-The new Miss Teen United States-World was crowned!
-THEN it was back to the dressing room to get everything together, change into my cocktail dress, board the bus, and head back to the hotel for the Coronation Ball
-We had a BLAST dancing and singing at the Coronation Ball-too much fun!!
Finally after the LONG, EXHAUSTING, COLD(Hotel and Theater), Sore(everything!!), EXCITING, and most of all Rewarding week...I slept like a baby!
After everything my mommy, me, and 2younger siblings drove the 17 hours back home from Houston.
I learned alot, like I always do!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
Thursday, July 2, 2009
3 days out...
Only 3 days until I board the plane to Houston!
I don't think I could be anymore excited.
I am packed, everything is ready to go, I finished the gifts(sshh...its a suprise), have a coloring book(disney princesses) to keep me busy during my layover, and my camera to capture all the memories.
I am very excited to meet all the girls, go to rehearsals, and of course compete!
Until I land in Texas...
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
I don't think I could be anymore excited.
I am packed, everything is ready to go, I finished the gifts(sshh...its a suprise), have a coloring book(disney princesses) to keep me busy during my layover, and my camera to capture all the memories.
I am very excited to meet all the girls, go to rehearsals, and of course compete!
Until I land in Texas...
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
2 weeks more...
It getting close to Nationals!
The packing, tanning, last minute alterations, workouts all will lead to no where else but Houston, TX for the Miss Teen United States-World 2009 pageant!
I have been busy preparing for the national pageant that I will be leaving for in just 2 short weeks!
I will have SUCH a fun day spent in airports to get there...but it will all be worth it to be the representative for the AWESOME state of Illinois! There are 39 states being represented, and I feel very fortunate to be a part of this great group of girls competing.
I will keep this updated as much as possible.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
The packing, tanning, last minute alterations, workouts all will lead to no where else but Houston, TX for the Miss Teen United States-World 2009 pageant!
I have been busy preparing for the national pageant that I will be leaving for in just 2 short weeks!
I will have SUCH a fun day spent in airports to get there...but it will all be worth it to be the representative for the AWESOME state of Illinois! There are 39 states being represented, and I feel very fortunate to be a part of this great group of girls competing.
I will keep this updated as much as possible.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
My first experience as "visiting royalty"...
Wow, what a weekend I had helping at the IL Coed pageant!
I thought I would just be hanging around wearing my crown and banner, maybe helping here and there as needed...but nope! Silly me for thinking I would have a dull moment at a pageant.
Not only did I help backstage for the preliminaries...I again was backstage through all of finals! I never knew that it would be so much work to keep little girls quiet, in line, and under controll! Then when the girls sisters would do well there were tears, screams of joy, jumping up and down...trying to get them looking like they weren't emotional was a challenge too! I had SO many great comments on my crown...then asked why is my banner sparkly? how did you become queen? What makes you so special to get to be Miss Illinois? and so many more! I never had a quiet moment around the little princess and sweetheart contestants!
I nicknamed this past weekend- "Miss Teen Illinois-World goes to a pageant"...hehehe
After the weekend was over I thought I would just be exhausted...that was true, but a flu/cold/virus thing was going around the hotel and I spent 3 days in bed just terribly sick!
I am better now, and I had such a fun time at the IL Coed pageant.
I am now VERY excited that nationals are coming up so soon!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
I thought I would just be hanging around wearing my crown and banner, maybe helping here and there as needed...but nope! Silly me for thinking I would have a dull moment at a pageant.
Not only did I help backstage for the preliminaries...I again was backstage through all of finals! I never knew that it would be so much work to keep little girls quiet, in line, and under controll! Then when the girls sisters would do well there were tears, screams of joy, jumping up and down...trying to get them looking like they weren't emotional was a challenge too! I had SO many great comments on my crown...then asked why is my banner sparkly? how did you become queen? What makes you so special to get to be Miss Illinois? and so many more! I never had a quiet moment around the little princess and sweetheart contestants!
I nicknamed this past weekend- "Miss Teen Illinois-World goes to a pageant"...hehehe
After the weekend was over I thought I would just be exhausted...that was true, but a flu/cold/virus thing was going around the hotel and I spent 3 days in bed just terribly sick!
I am better now, and I had such a fun time at the IL Coed pageant.
I am now VERY excited that nationals are coming up so soon!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
SUPRISE...you get to be visiting royalty!
I am at my little sister's first pageant(Illinois American Coed(Pre Teen), I was suprising my best friend who thought I wasn't going to be able to be here.
While my sister(Julia) was checking in, her state director asked my mom if I would be "visiting royalty" for the weekend. Thank goodness I NEVER leave home without my crown and banner-you never know when you will get asked to make an appearance!
My first day(Friday) I was introduced on stage and spoke just a little about my pageant, how I was getting ready for nationals, and a few things about my reign. Then we watched and my sister competed in talent. After all the fun of the day there was a pizza party for all the little girls and queens. What fun it was.
Today is the second day of the pageant so we will see what today brings!
Lesson-never leave home without your crown and banner, you may be suprised at who wants to have you where. :)
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
While my sister(Julia) was checking in, her state director asked my mom if I would be "visiting royalty" for the weekend. Thank goodness I NEVER leave home without my crown and banner-you never know when you will get asked to make an appearance!
My first day(Friday) I was introduced on stage and spoke just a little about my pageant, how I was getting ready for nationals, and a few things about my reign. Then we watched and my sister competed in talent. After all the fun of the day there was a pizza party for all the little girls and queens. What fun it was.
Today is the second day of the pageant so we will see what today brings!
Lesson-never leave home without your crown and banner, you may be suprised at who wants to have you where. :)
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Volunteering at the Futures Golf Tournament...
I spent the majority of my day watching/running the March of Dimes booth at the Futures Golf Tournament. There wasn't much traffic, but I had fun.
There were a few other booths there and they didn't have much traffic either. The booth across from mine was promoting "Muscle Milk"...so they HAD to get me to try it...needless to say, it is SO gross. So don't drink it! It is supposed to be a protein shake that helps build muscle, so I told them thats why there are so few body builders-the drink is so unappealing! They thought I was too funny, we all had a good laugh about it.
I posted the pictures from my busy day yesterday...including riding the camel. :)
I will post more from today soon.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
There were a few other booths there and they didn't have much traffic either. The booth across from mine was promoting "Muscle Milk"...so they HAD to get me to try it...needless to say, it is SO gross. So don't drink it! It is supposed to be a protein shake that helps build muscle, so I told them thats why there are so few body builders-the drink is so unappealing! They thought I was too funny, we all had a good laugh about it.
I posted the pictures from my busy day yesterday...including riding the camel. :)
I will post more from today soon.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
My busy week this far..
I had my 4-H modeling competition today(the 4-H Fashion Revue). I modeled in my Red Cocktail dress that I wore at the state Illinois pageant for our opening number and my crown & banner! Not only did I make it to the State Level(a big honor to make it to the 4-H State Fair) but I recieved the "Best in Show" award! It was very exciting. The only downside was after I had modeled my first time, my brand new heels broke! So I was left wearing the ankle strap and barefoot...it was quite the sight to see!!
I met the pig-Olivia who will be the star of the "Kiss the Pig" contest...as of this morning I was in 2nd place. WHEW! I took a few pictures with "her" and practiced my kissing face...haha
And me being my silly in the moment self, I decided while I was all dressed up with nowhere to go, I would ride a CAMEL! Yes, a camel. I rode it not only in my crown and banner, but my dress too!! (I did cheat a little and put jean shorts on underneath) Riding the camel was SO fun, and now it has had royalty on its back! The camel's name is Lucy...which I thought was way too funny since my show pony is named Lucy as well.
Then I HAD to get a funnel cake, it just wouldn't be a fair without it. It was SO so good. I'm not supposed to tell about the bad things I eat...but oh well, I had to brag! :)
Tomorrow (June 10th) I will be running the March of Dimes booth at the Future's Golf Tour.
I am looking forward to another fun filled day.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
I met the pig-Olivia who will be the star of the "Kiss the Pig" contest...as of this morning I was in 2nd place. WHEW! I took a few pictures with "her" and practiced my kissing face...haha
And me being my silly in the moment self, I decided while I was all dressed up with nowhere to go, I would ride a CAMEL! Yes, a camel. I rode it not only in my crown and banner, but my dress too!! (I did cheat a little and put jean shorts on underneath) Riding the camel was SO fun, and now it has had royalty on its back! The camel's name is Lucy...which I thought was way too funny since my show pony is named Lucy as well.
Then I HAD to get a funnel cake, it just wouldn't be a fair without it. It was SO so good. I'm not supposed to tell about the bad things I eat...but oh well, I had to brag! :)
Tomorrow (June 10th) I will be running the March of Dimes booth at the Future's Golf Tour.
I am looking forward to another fun filled day.
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
Another appearance to add!!...or two or three...
I was called today by the March of Dimes office(which I get alot of calls from since I have been a volunteer for over a year now and the MOD is my platform!)and I was asked to run the March of Dimes booth at the Futures Golf Tour/Golf Outing at the Hickory Point Golf Club in Forsyth.
I will be running the March of Dimes booth on June 10th from 10:30am to 2:00pm...promoting this awesome charity that is so close to my heart.
I will be sure to take lots of pictures and write all about it as soon as I can!
I also will be modeling in my 4-H Fair Fashion Revue on June 9th at 6:00pm, and I decided to model in my crown and banner and futher have fun with my reign! I not only am modeling, but I have a chance to be awarded the opportunity to model at the State Fair 4-H Fashion Revue...so fingers crossed!
Then I am also a participant in the "Kiss the Pig" contest later on this week to raise money for the St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
I am having a busy week, but I couldn't be happier!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
I will be running the March of Dimes booth on June 10th from 10:30am to 2:00pm...promoting this awesome charity that is so close to my heart.
I will be sure to take lots of pictures and write all about it as soon as I can!
I also will be modeling in my 4-H Fair Fashion Revue on June 9th at 6:00pm, and I decided to model in my crown and banner and futher have fun with my reign! I not only am modeling, but I have a chance to be awarded the opportunity to model at the State Fair 4-H Fashion Revue...so fingers crossed!
Then I am also a participant in the "Kiss the Pig" contest later on this week to raise money for the St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
I am having a busy week, but I couldn't be happier!
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
Saturday, June 6, 2009
My amazing reign this far...
I have ALOT to cover! I won my title in April it is now June, lets see if I can bring it all up to speed. :)
April 18th, 2009-the day that changed my life!
I competed against some of the sweetest girls, we all had so much fun together. I don't think, for the first time in my pageant experience, we had ANY drama! Miss Catherine and Mama C made it clear they didn't want any, but with the group of girls we had, there was no need to worry.
I remember the moment I won so clearly...I didn't know whether to cry or jump up and down. I was so shocked. Hearing my name as the new Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009, I knew my year was going to be great, little did I know it would be amazing.
April 26th, 2009-my first appearance as Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009.
I volunteered at the Champaign March of Dimes-March for Babies. It was SO extremely windy that day my crown was flying off my head...and it was clipped on! Despite the wind, the weather was wonderful for the event! After I arrived I helped set up by making signs for registration, setting up the sale table, and all sorts of other things. I then helped kick off/start the walk with the Ambassador family. I then returned to help get everything for after the walk(I managed to make a run to McDonalds...but I'm not supposed to say that!). As the children were returning from the 3 mile walk I passed out gold medals to them. I then helped give out Team and Individual Awards. The walk raised $55,000 for the March of Dimes...to save babies.
April 27th, 2009-my second appearance...one day later.
It was time for my hometown, Decatur's March of Dimes-March for Babies. I helped set up once again, taking water to the checkpoints, registering the teams, and more! I also spent the months leading up to the walk getting together a walk team known as "Crowns for Babies". My team consisted of Myself(Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009), Lynzi Misuraca(My best friend and the Miss Illinois Junior Teen-American Coed 2008), Alyssa Longanecker(National American Miss Illinois Jr. Pre Teen 2008), Alexis Longanecker(National American Miss Miss Lockport Princess 2008), and their awesome mom's-Vicki Misuraca(aka Mama Vicki) and Michelle Longanecker. My team alone raised over $300, and we walked 2.9 miles! I then returned to help give out the last of the awards. Our walk raised over $16,000...to save even more babies.
May 10th, 2009-met Miss Catherine and Mama C at Bridal Elegance in Ottowa
This was probably my FAVORITE thing I have gotten to do...picking my dress for Nationals!!
The day started off being overwhelmed by how many dresses where in the store, wow, I didn't know where to start. Miss Catherine had her heart set on putting me in a white dress, so I tried on so many beautiful gowns! Then we went to the Blues, a few Purples, Pink, Reds, and a Brown dress too! I was having way too much fun trying all the dresses on. I ended up trying one dress on and it was "it". I had the moment of, I never want to take this dress off, and that became my dress. I can't wait to "debut" my it in Houston...no-one knows what color, what style, nothing about it...its our secret!! :) Thank you to Bridal Elegance and Staff for all of your help, you were wonderful!!
May 16th, 2009-visting my "sister system" 's Wisconsin pageant
I had planned on spending a relaxing weekend in Chicago with my best friend and her mama, but I was asked to go to Sheboygan, WI to help with the Miss Wisconsin U.S. International pageant. So thank you to my wonderful mommy who drives me EVERYWHERE, she got up with me and off we drove. I ended up getting there 15 min. late, missed my introduction, and I was panicking! After I got myself dressed I was later introduced and interviewed on stage. It was so much fun. I then helped by passing the flowers out to the Top 5 and Queen(Bishara Dorre). While all this was going on MTV's MADE was fliming an episode that will be airing later this summer, I don't know if I will make it onto the show, but what an experience it was to have all those cameras staring right at me! After the pageant was over I was back to Chicago.
May 17th, 2009-Mokena Cancer Walk(Spring Walk of Hope)
Yet another appearance and money raising opportunity! This time I was in Mokena walking for The Free Cancer Screening and Support Center. I walked on the team "Illinois Queens" which consisted of: Myself(Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009), Lynzi Misuraca(Miss Illinois Junior Teen-American Coed 2008), Ashley Fister(out team captain and National American Miss Illinois Junior Teen 2008), Alyssa Longanecker(National American Miss Illinois Jr. Pre Teen 2008), Alexis Longanecker(National American Miss Lockport Princess), Mama Vicki, and Norma Fister(Ashley's mommy). We walked 2 miles and in total the walk raised $55,000! After we ate lunch(that was provided) we took tons and tons of pictures of all the queens together! Whew!
May 19th, 2009-Papadakis Photoshoot in Barrington
My awesome director Miss Catherine asked me to go and have a headshot taken for the National Program Book. It was part of my prize package when I won to have a "Test Shoot" to see if I was marketable for modeling...I had SO much fun taking all the pictures. And in the end I LOVE my headshot! Thank you to Papadakis Photography for such a fun day of photos! :)
Its now June 6th, I have had a bit of a much needed rest, but I am anxiously awaiting my next appearance...and of course the Miss Teen United States-World 2009 pageant in Houston, Texas July 6th-10th!
I will not only have my awesome directors, but my family, and friends there to cheer me on. I couldn't be happier at this opportunity to represent Illinois, and I hope I make it proud!
Until next time,
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
P.S. for those of you who would find this funny, this week during our Macon County Fair/4-H Fair I will be a part of the "Kiss The Pig" competition to raise money for St. Jude's Children's Hospital...my goodness I SURE hope I don't have to kiss that pig! :/
April 18th, 2009-the day that changed my life!
I competed against some of the sweetest girls, we all had so much fun together. I don't think, for the first time in my pageant experience, we had ANY drama! Miss Catherine and Mama C made it clear they didn't want any, but with the group of girls we had, there was no need to worry.
I remember the moment I won so clearly...I didn't know whether to cry or jump up and down. I was so shocked. Hearing my name as the new Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009, I knew my year was going to be great, little did I know it would be amazing.
April 26th, 2009-my first appearance as Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009.
I volunteered at the Champaign March of Dimes-March for Babies. It was SO extremely windy that day my crown was flying off my head...and it was clipped on! Despite the wind, the weather was wonderful for the event! After I arrived I helped set up by making signs for registration, setting up the sale table, and all sorts of other things. I then helped kick off/start the walk with the Ambassador family. I then returned to help get everything for after the walk(I managed to make a run to McDonalds...but I'm not supposed to say that!). As the children were returning from the 3 mile walk I passed out gold medals to them. I then helped give out Team and Individual Awards. The walk raised $55,000 for the March of Dimes...to save babies.
April 27th, 2009-my second appearance...one day later.
It was time for my hometown, Decatur's March of Dimes-March for Babies. I helped set up once again, taking water to the checkpoints, registering the teams, and more! I also spent the months leading up to the walk getting together a walk team known as "Crowns for Babies". My team consisted of Myself(Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009), Lynzi Misuraca(My best friend and the Miss Illinois Junior Teen-American Coed 2008), Alyssa Longanecker(National American Miss Illinois Jr. Pre Teen 2008), Alexis Longanecker(National American Miss Miss Lockport Princess 2008), and their awesome mom's-Vicki Misuraca(aka Mama Vicki) and Michelle Longanecker. My team alone raised over $300, and we walked 2.9 miles! I then returned to help give out the last of the awards. Our walk raised over $16,000...to save even more babies.
May 10th, 2009-met Miss Catherine and Mama C at Bridal Elegance in Ottowa
This was probably my FAVORITE thing I have gotten to do...picking my dress for Nationals!!
The day started off being overwhelmed by how many dresses where in the store, wow, I didn't know where to start. Miss Catherine had her heart set on putting me in a white dress, so I tried on so many beautiful gowns! Then we went to the Blues, a few Purples, Pink, Reds, and a Brown dress too! I was having way too much fun trying all the dresses on. I ended up trying one dress on and it was "it". I had the moment of, I never want to take this dress off, and that became my dress. I can't wait to "debut" my it in Houston...no-one knows what color, what style, nothing about it...its our secret!! :) Thank you to Bridal Elegance and Staff for all of your help, you were wonderful!!
May 16th, 2009-visting my "sister system" 's Wisconsin pageant
I had planned on spending a relaxing weekend in Chicago with my best friend and her mama, but I was asked to go to Sheboygan, WI to help with the Miss Wisconsin U.S. International pageant. So thank you to my wonderful mommy who drives me EVERYWHERE, she got up with me and off we drove. I ended up getting there 15 min. late, missed my introduction, and I was panicking! After I got myself dressed I was later introduced and interviewed on stage. It was so much fun. I then helped by passing the flowers out to the Top 5 and Queen(Bishara Dorre). While all this was going on MTV's MADE was fliming an episode that will be airing later this summer, I don't know if I will make it onto the show, but what an experience it was to have all those cameras staring right at me! After the pageant was over I was back to Chicago.
May 17th, 2009-Mokena Cancer Walk(Spring Walk of Hope)
Yet another appearance and money raising opportunity! This time I was in Mokena walking for The Free Cancer Screening and Support Center. I walked on the team "Illinois Queens" which consisted of: Myself(Miss Teen Illinois-World 2009), Lynzi Misuraca(Miss Illinois Junior Teen-American Coed 2008), Ashley Fister(out team captain and National American Miss Illinois Junior Teen 2008), Alyssa Longanecker(National American Miss Illinois Jr. Pre Teen 2008), Alexis Longanecker(National American Miss Lockport Princess), Mama Vicki, and Norma Fister(Ashley's mommy). We walked 2 miles and in total the walk raised $55,000! After we ate lunch(that was provided) we took tons and tons of pictures of all the queens together! Whew!
May 19th, 2009-Papadakis Photoshoot in Barrington
My awesome director Miss Catherine asked me to go and have a headshot taken for the National Program Book. It was part of my prize package when I won to have a "Test Shoot" to see if I was marketable for modeling...I had SO much fun taking all the pictures. And in the end I LOVE my headshot! Thank you to Papadakis Photography for such a fun day of photos! :)
Its now June 6th, I have had a bit of a much needed rest, but I am anxiously awaiting my next appearance...and of course the Miss Teen United States-World 2009 pageant in Houston, Texas July 6th-10th!
I will not only have my awesome directors, but my family, and friends there to cheer me on. I couldn't be happier at this opportunity to represent Illinois, and I hope I make it proud!
Until next time,
-Victoria
Miss Teen Illinois World 2009
P.S. for those of you who would find this funny, this week during our Macon County Fair/4-H Fair I will be a part of the "Kiss The Pig" competition to raise money for St. Jude's Children's Hospital...my goodness I SURE hope I don't have to kiss that pig! :/
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