The week of the Miss Texas Pageant came and went so quickly. After months and months of preparations, alterations and hard work I went into the week of the pageant more confident than ever before. I always love getting to see and spend time with my pageant sisters. Also, because Miss Texas celebrated its 75th anniversary this year many of the former Miss Texas’ that I have looked up to and admired for so long were at the pageant participating in the festivities. I got to talk to many of them including Lisa Dalzell Spooner, Carly Jarmon Gil, Molly Simmons, Tara Watson Watkins, Morgan Matlock Hightower, to name a few and it was such a special experience that I will forever cherish.
I feel so blessed to share this year with my precious teen Lydia. It has been so special for me to get to be a part of her TREMENDOUS growth this year. Lydia, I am so incredibly proud of you. I love you so much!
Two moments stick out to me the most during the pageant week. The first moment came on Tuesday night following my evening gown and swimsuit competition when I was announced the preliminary swimsuit winner. For many years I have watched girls receive the prelim awards and have stood in awe of them. I was always just hoping that one day my name would be called to receive one of these awards. It was so special to be recognized for all of the hard work and dedication I put in to getting in shape this year. To me, this is truly one of the most precious awards I could have received because I set my mind to earning this honor and I accomplished it.
The second moment that stands out in my mind came on finals night. Not only was it such an honor to be called into the top 10 at the pageant but I also got to share the stage with my little sister, Reilly, and of course my best friend and roommate Ashley. Later in the evening when the top 10 was narrowed to 5 and my name was called there was no better feeling than the world than looking out at my family, pageant family, and friends cheering loudly for me and then running to my best friend, also in the top five, for a big hug (and maybe some tears of joy!). Ashley and I kept having to tell one another to “pull it together” and stop sobbing.
Later in the evening Ashley and I stood holding hands in a moment that seemed to last forever and finally Gloria announced that I was the first runner up and that my best friend was the new Miss Texas. Words cannot express how incredibly proud I am of her! All I remember is crying tears of joy as she walked down the runway thinking how excited/proud/happy for her I was… and then realizing I have no roommate for the upcoming semester!!!
I had such a great time during the Miss Texas pageant this year and made many memories that will last a lifetime. There is no way I could have accomplished all I have this year without a very special group of people and I want to take a moment to thank them for investing time, money, and love in me.
First off, my amazing family! Thank you Mom, Dad and Rei for always believing in me and supporting me in all ways possible. I love you all the way to Pluto and back!
My bestie, Ashley - No way I could have done this without you! It has been so incredible to share this journey with you!
Lyds - You are the best teen in the world. God truly blessed me this year by bringing you into my life. I am here for you forever and always… I love you dearly!
Alex and Chris - my secret parents. Words cannot express how much I love you two! You have helped me grow in so many ways the past two years and I know we will be friends forever.
Larkin- thank you for ALWAYS believing in me and helping me to achieve my fitness goals. I love you dearly and treasure our friendship.
Lisa - You are a BLESSING in my life. Not only have you helped me build so much confidence in my interview, you have made me believe that I can be Miss Texas. You are such an incredible friend and role model. I am so lucky to have you in my life.
The Dalzells- Thank you for helping me with my interview. Your mocks made me feel so prepared! I love you guys!
Ashley and Jennifer Lenz - Thank you for making me feel like a million bucks in my dress (which is just a little less than in cost right?! Haha just kidding!) P 90X is amazing… I love you both tons!
Micaela - You made my week INCREDIBLE! I have never felt so beautiful and put together in my life. I don’t know how you made my hair look so wonderful but I thank you from the bottom of my heart not only for your incredible hair and makeup skills but for your friendship and support and for always making me smile!
Stephen Yearick - My tap costume and interview dress were AMAZING! I had so much fun in New York with you and I look forward to working together again.
Shea Sullivan - Thank you for choreographing my tap dance to Instant Replay - I love performing. You are the best! I had a blast with you this year!
BeautiControl - You are the most incredible support team EVER. God has truly blessed me this year by bringing all of you into my life. I can’t wait to see what next year brings!
Courtney at Gypsy & Co. - I adore my cocktail dress. I felt so special in it. Thank you for your generous donation!
