Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network Luncheon

I was invited to be a guest of Arapahoe/Douglas NAMI at the Arapahoe Douglas Mental Health Network luncheon. I was invited because of my volunteer work with NAMI. It was a great luncheon with so many who came together to support this wonderful cause.

After the luncheon, I had an opportunity to meet the featured speaker, Pete Early, and to share my story. We are pictured holding his book, Crazy. He spoke of the true insanity of todays mental health care. Check out his blog to see the story he wrote that included my own story.

Kites for Life

I sponsored a NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) booth  recently at the Kites for Life festival sponsored by the Douglas County Second Wind Fund. The mission of Second Wind Fund, Inc. is to decrease the incidence of teen suicide nationally by removing financial and social barriers to treatment for at-risk youth and to create a network of local affiliates to provide such services in their own communities. It was a beautiful day with a nice breeze for flying Kites. It was wonderful to connect with so many people in my community who were there to bring awareness to suicide and prevention.

Miss Crown Jewel

Recently I was speaking with some friends online about wishing there was a way to enter a pageant to get feedback before I compete at Beauties of America this summer. One of my friends, Joy, suggested that I audit a local pageant. After much debate, I decided that it would be a good idea. I would be able to practice my stage work and get feedback on my wardrobe, hair, makeup, etc. So I entered the Miss Crown Jewel Pageant run by Valerie Sweely. It was a fun, one day pageant that had only two areas of competition: Evening wear and fun fashion.

Much to my surprise, three out of the five judges for the day were dear friends. Michelle Wegner, Mrs. United America was one of them. I think I was more nervous because I wanted to do well and impress my friends. I probably tried too hard. They were so gracious and gave me a ton of feedback.

Of course, it was so much fun to watch two of my clients compete. Congratulations to my clients, Tiegan and Hawley for their new titles!!!

This pageant was the morning after Ashley was crowned Jr. Miss Colorado-World. She was still glowing from the night before. I wonder if she ever took the crown off?

It was a wonderful experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who would like a little practice and feedback before their next big pageant.

Miss Teen Colorado-World

I recently attended the Miss Teen Colorado-World pageant hosted by the pageant director Christina Sacha. I met up with friend and Mrs. United America, Michelle Wegner. It was a first class pageant, but that was no surprise. Christina is a first class lady. 

 Two of my best friends in pageantry and in life were there, (L) Rita Case and (R) Erin Feltes. Both of these women have been such a positive influence in my life.

It was an honor to meet Miss Colorado USA 2010, Jessica Hartman. She was on the judges panel. I did not envy her! There were so many fabulous young ladies that night.

It was also an honor to meet Pageant Legend Gaspar Cruz! He is the Director for Miss Teen World. He is such a kind and generous man.

It was wonderful catching up with Micayla Keely, Miss Teen Colorado-World 2009. We made several appearances together. She always had a great attitude and so much energy!

Heidi Hume is such a gracious young woman. I have to tell a story on her. The night of the pageant, one of the contestant's  gowns tore and was not wearable. Heidi quickly offered one of her gowns and saved the evening. That young lady went on to win the title. Now can you see why I love and admire her?

 Congratulations to Victoria Korthuis, Miss Teen Colorado-World!! I was so happy and excited for her. She was such a fabulous city title holder for two years before finally taking home the crown. She will represent Colorado well. I look forward to following her year.

The highlight of the evening for me was getting to see my client, Ashley Berry, crowned Jr. Miss Colorado-World. I am so proud of her. She has come a long way in the past year. Good luck this summer Ashley!!!