Photos Galore

This week I had two photo shoots. The first was done by Sonya Gavankar, who, in addition to being Miss DC 1997, is a fabulous photographer. We did it on Pennsylvania Ave, and I had a blast! Of course, the weather could have been better—105 degrees (!) in the shade, and there was no shade. (No exaggeration on either count.) Our camera time was cut short by stormy weather, but I think we got some cool-looking shots. The second photo shoot was with Monica True in the more temperature friendly rooms of a beautiful DC home. These were primarily head shots with a couple of crown shots; I’ll update my website with samples soon.

On Thursday night, I attended a Wounded Warriors BBQ at Walter Reed Hospital with Bill Chatfield, a former Marine and director of the Selective Service under President Bush's administration. Meeting the men and women who give of themselves so selflessly to defend our country was an unforgettable experience filled with inspiring and humbling stories. Afterwards, Bill and I went to a USO reception where I again talked with some of the incredible people who commit their time and energy to supporting our troops and their families.

In addition to the photo shoots and appearances, I kept up with my physical training and mock interview prep; i.e., not a lot of free time. I’m looking forward to the Maine Invitational next week when I’ll be traveling to Philadelphia and Atlantic City (home!) and have the opportunity to meet some of the other women in the Miss America class of 2010. Can't wait!

Internet Ready!

At last, I am completely internet ready, I have my blog up, I've been tweeting, and I now have my own website! Computers are becoming my forte. I am thrilled to be able to share my experience as Miss District of Columbia 2010 with the world.

I feel so incredibly fortunate to have been blessed with the opportunity to represent our Nation's capital at the Miss America Pageant. I have some very special people to thank. First, a shout out to Pwills (my pet name for my mom), and daddy. Without you, none of this would have been possible. Your endless support and dedication to helping me make my dreams come true has been breathtaking. My sister Anna has been there from the start, inspiring me to dream big and helping me realize that I can accomplish just about anything. To my Miss DC family, Teri, Tricia, and Sonya thank you all for your endless guidance and support. CJD, Haaskins, and Gunsey I want to thank you for your support throughout the year. Surviving the medical boards and then beginning the pageant with the interview portion thirty minutes later was not easy. You don't know how close I came to dropping out when I realized that was the only possible scheduling of those events. And at the Sunday night pageant, I will never forget seeing you all from stage, waving your "heads on a stick" and GIGANTIC "We<3 SAW" signs. You brought tears to my eyes, and I love you all.

Ever since the crown hit my head I have not stopped moving. I have done a number of appearances including the Fourth of July Parade, visiting a performing arts camp, an interview on the venerable Atlantic City Pinky's Corner radio show, the Marines Sunset Parade, visiting and playing with kids from Saint Ann's, a reception thrown for me by Senator Strauss, a Screen on the Green kick-off party, and too many more to list! It has been a great experience so far, and I am so excited looking forward to the rest of the year.