Miss Gateway to the West Outstanding Teen 2011: Miss Missouri Week

Wow! What a crazy summer this has been! I started off my summer with Miss Missouri week. :) I also went to Missouri Girls State, UDA Dance Camp, the Misses of Missouri Pageant, & St. Louis for a weekend of adventure! I feel that it is only right for me to begin by telling you all about my experience at the Miss Missouri's Outstanding Teen pageant this June.

I couldn't have been more excited about the pageant this year! After 8 monthes of preparations, it was finally time to show everyone what I had been working on. I started the week on a very high note at our first meeting on Tuesday morning. I was named Miss Photogenic 2011!! Being Miss Photogenic was a huge honor because my headshot was on the back of all the Outstanding Teen program books. :)

Thank you Lance Tilford for a great shot!

The week continued to get better. I was able to have a blast, make even more pageant friends, & do my very best. I enjoyed the Princess Luncheon, the after parties, & we even managed to make rehearsals fun. :) But the icing on top of the cake was being named a top 10 finalist on Friday night! I was extatic!

Doing my talent on the Miss Missouri stage was an amazing experience that I will never forget. I'm so glad I was able to "put on my my my my my boogie shoes" on that stage in front of such a large crowd!

I would like to thank my EXTRAORDINARY sister queens, Amanda, Jillian, & Charlee. They were so supportive all week, especially on Friday night. Everytime I got off-stage they were there with open arms. Their support meant so much to me. From Jillian's pep talk before the pageant to Charlee's prayer right before on-stage question, these girls were there for me 100%.

Amanda & I at rehearsal!

Jillian & I at the parade!

I would also like to thank all of those who sponsored me on my journey to Miss Missouri & the Gateway Board & Krewe. Without you all, none of this would be possible.

Mary, Kerri, & I!!

Gary, Charlee, & I!!

Lastly, I'd like to congratulate McKensie Garber for being crowned Miss Missouri's Outstanding Teen 2011!! She was phenomenal & more than deserving of the honor. So happy for you Kensie! :)