Charity Fashion Show Take 2.

Just a few more pictures of some of our wonderful ladies during the fashion show. Those of us who wore costumes missed out on the gowns the other half wore on stage before us. But it was a great time seeing how creative each queen was in how she chose to represent her state. I adore Mrs. Washington for many reason and must admit my family (who lived in Seattle for 6 years while I was growing up) still cheers for the Seahawks, so I loved her costume even more. Hey! Anyone have some Diet Dr. Pepper and dark chocolate? Mrs. Tennessee (who is a hoot)wore a costume by Manuel. He is a famed designer in Nashville I had the chance to work with on a few stories when I worked there. You can spot his work and he did not disappoint with Monette's jacket. Then there is Tonya (VA) and Susie (NV) who were bigger than life in there spectacular costumes as well!

Getting Schooled

After rehearsals, we delegates were able to take part in a charity fashion show on behalf of the resort which raised funds for teachers. Arizona is one of the states on the lower end of the list when it comes to educational achievement. As we all know, education is vital. Still, educators are forced to fund their own classrooms just so they can function. So, the fundraiser helps provide supplies for AZ teachers and their classrooms. The fashion show also offered gift baskets from each of us for auction. Then, half of us wore gowns of our own choice and the other half (me) wore state costumes. Let me mention Mrs. New Hampshire, Heather Merrill. I met her about a year ago via email. And so I love this picture with her. Given all the running arund we did during the wekk, I never had the chance to sit down and just catch uyp with Heather, but we both met before we both were given the opportunity to represent our states and I hope after the boxes and bags are unpacked, we will get that chance to catch up! It was a great time and gave me the chance to see Elisa Rister (Mrs. AZ 09)and meet a few others who I knew only through Facebook.

Dinner with Friends

We capped off our first full day with a dinner at El Charro which was El Fabuloso;) (Sorry, I took spanish for a couple of years and retained El zippo.) During dinner I had the chance to get to know Teri McMillin (Mississippi). She is one of those gals you just wished lived next door. She is so down to Earth and open. I love people who are that way. The work she does on behalf of her daughter, Molly Kate who was stillborn, through the March of Dimes is touching and inspirational. I also had the chance to chat with Samantha Reinecke (Kansas), Melissa Rector (Rhode Island)and Stefani Norville (California). They were all great!
Susie and I had plans to get to bed early that night, but, we stayed up talking instead which was a far better and much more fun decision.
1)Another table full of lovely ladies.
2)Our table
3)RI, MS, and NV

Morning!

So today began our first full day of festivities which started at 6:15 AM in swimsuits by the pool. Apparently the lighting is perfect at that crack of dawn time. After breakfast, we began rehearsals and then off to the mall for some red carpet shopping. Susie and I were able to pick up some gifts for our kids and score a couple of great deals as well.
1)Some of our class. This was the only known spot for decent internet service and where we all were able to see pictures from the night before.
2)Susie!
3)NV, LA, Me and MO bright eyed at breakfast
4)HI, NV, AZ in St. John

Orientation Dinner. Day 1

My roommate is Susie Monahan from Nevada. She is AMAZING! We spoke before we arrived in Arizona and so I knew I would really like her. Then I was walking through the lobby when I spotted her outside getting her luggage in order. She has this way of just catching your eye. She is even more beautiful than in pictures, really funny, genuine and extremely smart. My first thought was how cool it would be if I roomed with our next Mrs. America!
Tonight was our fist official function. We all met for the orientation dinner. We were able to meet each other and get a rundown of what to expect during the following week.

We Have Arrived!

I got in to Arizona and was able to take a quick look around. Then I hit the gym so I could beat myself up for a bit before indulging in a wonderful massage as a reward! I met Mrs. Arkansas, Michelle Flake, there. She is in incredible shape and incredibly nice. Here are some shots from the resort. Lovely, aye?

Gotta Fly!

And so it is time to head to Tucson! I only hope I have packed everything I needed. Let's see, gown and interview dress are in hand. Gifts are already out there and I hope my brain will arrive with me today. I'm heading out a day ahead of time to get unpacked and reorganized. I can't believe the week and a half at Mrs. America is already here!
*Notice the suitcases are marked as HEAVY loads! So heavy, the handle on the new suitcase I was given as Mrs. Illinois gave way.