Miss America 2010

Thank you very much to everyone that supported me throughout my journey at Miss America. All of the warm wishes, letters, gifts, and videos were much appreciated. Those 10 days are days I will remember for the rest of my life. I truly believe that I have significantly grown after my trip to Las Vegas. There is something incredibly rewarding about the Miss America experience and being able to compete on that stage!

Lance Burton making tons of little squishy bunnies come out of my hands from only having 2 bunnies in there to start!

The first four days were all rehearsals and appearances. We went on a gondola ride at the Venetian, made pancakes with people from IHOP, did go-kart racing and met Lance Burton at Pole Position Raceway, and saw the Phantom of the Opera. We had interviews with TLC and a mini photo shoot for DSW's campaign to support the troops. All of us put on combat boots and held up American flags for the pictures. Unfortunately, we didn't get to keep the boots.

making some IHOP pancakes

After that, the actual competition began. Interview, Swimsuit, Evening Wear, Talent, and On Stage Question all happened in 3-4 days. It was early mornings and late nights, but it was all well worth it. I caught up on all of my sleep when I got home and slept for nearly 3 days!

DSW support the troops campaign

The best thing about competition starting was that it meant we got to see our families afterward! It was so wonderful to see everyone: family, friends, board members and local directors, contestants, and my wonderful little sis MDOT 2009 Danielle Marshall and her mom. They laughed with me, cried with me, and cheered me on the whole week like I was already Miss America.

at the Evening of Dreams

That Friday we had a banquet called "Evening of Dreams" where a large percentage of former Miss Americas attended and performed, a fabulous dinner was served, and Miss America 2009 Katie Stam got engaged! It was the most romantic proposal I have ever seen! Of course, I cried...I couldn't help it. I'm pretty sure half the room was in tears by the time it was all said and done.

Miss Minnesota, Brooke, and I on our gondola ride

Saturday was the final competition. I have never had so many emotions run through my body in one day. One moment I was excited, the next nervous, the next anxious, and then excited, and then scared, and then worried, and then tired...on and on and on. I went on stage that night, knowing that I had done everything I possibly could have done. I loved my wardrobe, was confident in my talent and interview, and felt beautiful in my swimsuit and evening gown. I honestly wouldn't have changed a thing that whole week. Even though I did not make the top 15, I cherish the fact that I am not wishing I could do it all over. I am completely satisfied with my performance, and I can hold my head high knowing that I have gone down in history as Miss Delaware 2009.

Anne Michael and I heading off to Interview

My roommate was Miss Iowa, Anne Michael Langguth. She was the sweetest roommate ever. We got along so well. She played me "Happy Birthday" on the violin at midnight on my birthday while we were out there. She is a great example of what this organization is all about: service, scholarship, success, and style.

My evening gown

Now it is back to reality. I am still Miss Delaware until June, so I am still making appearances throughout my wonderful state of Delaware. I am currently taking an online course through UD in hopes of finishing my degree by Spring of 2011. I am looking forward to these upcoming months being filled with moments that will continue transform my life and serving Delaware to the best of my abilities.

Thanks again everyone!