My Life Is Not A Dress Rehearsal

2012-01-23T08:05:00.000-05:00

I feel like my blog may have no more relevance to my reader's. The past few year's I've been able to update reader's, who are most likely involved in pageants, on appearances and events I've been a part of. As our family grows, my time spent away from home will be less and less. My attention is beginning to be focused elsewhere.

I don't plan on stopping my blog, I simply need to figure out how to switch gears and make it interesting still. So as I take time to ponder what that may be...check this out. Bear with me, I hope my loyal followers will stick with me.

Have a great week...from me & baby!

2011-12-28T14:59:00.005-05:00

Check out last year's memorable moments, HERE. Here's a run down from a writer with Huffington Post: 2011 in Review.

Here is my list with a few "2011 Highlights"

10. Our trip to California & Disneyland!

9. Road-trip to Florida!

8. Welcoming little friends into the world! Norah & Asher...

7. Little sister started HIGH SCHOOL! What?!

6. "Little" sister-in-law got married!

5. Being a part of Miss Ohio's CMNH Bike Tour!

4. Being a part of the 2011 Miss Ohio pageant!

3. Holding the 2nd annual Camp Sharp for Girls!

2. Celebrating our 2nd wedding anniversary!

1. Getting that positive test result! Our world has forever changed!

Words will never be able to describe the emotions I have felt over the past five months. I feel like everything in my life has always been a "God thing." This little soul that I am carrying amazes me everyday. I can't wait to meet this little person that God has blessed us with. I feel like every year, new challenges and new beginnings have presented themselves...but hubs & I are in store for something greater. Greater than ourselves. I wish the happiest of Happy New Year's to you & yours...may your 2012 be blessed!

2011-12-21T11:38:00.002-05:00

Hello blog readers! It's been a WHILE! I need to keep up to speed with my blog more...I use it as a journal of sorts. It's neat to go back and look at events I partook in over 3 years ago.

One event I know I will love looking back on is sharing some exciting news with you...

My husband and I are expecting an amazing beautiful blessing in May! It's been truly SO hard to not blab all about it here or on Facebook...but now it's out!

That's right folks...me, Roberta, "Miss Ohio," is joining the "Motherhood" club! And I can't wait! We're actually about half way there...20ish weeks! Don't worry, I've got photos galore to share with you.

I remember the first time I saw a candid photo of myself, where I actually looked pregnant! My little sister snapped it when I wasn't looking...and wow. That was around the beginning of month four. You should see this baby belly now!

Words can't describe the thoughts that go through my mind. Just how unbelievably, overwhelmingly awesome this is. What an incredible thing to experience...to experience with the person I love. Creating life.

Above is Baby around 11.5 weeks. He/she was about 2 - 2.5 inches at that point and was a wiggle worm. We could see Baby moving all around. Below is Baby this week! My how they've grown!

I'm convinced Baby will be a dancer or gymnast...they've been moving around constantly the past couple of weeks, using my bladder as a trampoline! I first felt Baby move at the end of week 17, unsure of what I had felt I didn't want to build up too much excitement. But a couple of days later, there was no questioning! It's like a little 5 inch, 8 ounce baby "punch!" That's what I like to call it.

We're not going to find out the gender, sorry folks. We want to be surprised and I want my hubs to be the one who says to me: "It's a girl!" or "We have a son!" What do you think it'll be?

We've had a ton of fun over the past few weeks looking at gender neutral fabrics and nursery themes. Baby's colors are orange and turquoise! Scratchin' your head? Here, this will give you a better idea...

My favorite snack has been apples and cheese. I'm "craving" fruits and veggies! Bizarre! Don't worry, I've had my moments where all I want is a Junior Roast Beef Sandwich, curly fries and/or mozzarella sticks AND a chocolate milkshake from Arby's!!

I probably won't share name possibilities on the blog, yet. We do have a couple though, so hopefully we won't be the parents who name their child during the last minute of their hospital stay! But we'll see! There are definitely names that my h-band has ruled out, like: Jemma, Cora, Clinton and Samuel. Haha.

We are beyond blessed and are so thankful to have this little soul to raise as our own in God's eyes. "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..." -James 1:17

2011-12-13T11:23:00.001-05:00

Lots of Miss Ohio and Miss America updates!

Ellen's send-off celebration to Miss America is THIS Saturday, in Celina! I am sad that I will not be able to attend this year. This will be the first Miss Ohio send-off since, well...mine, that I will not be at. I've been to Karissa's, Erica's and Becky's. All three of whom will be at Ellen's send-off...so that's great!

Also, you MUST vote for Ellen in the Miss America Video Contest! America can vote for one young lady to be in the Top 15! Click on either photo above to go to the video page, or watch it right here:

I also think Ellen is the front runner for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Miracle Maker Award! Based on her CMNH fundraising link (here), she's raised over $20,000!! If you haven't all ready contributed, donate TODAY!

I've been able to have a few conversations with Ellen over the passing weeks and she has really been working hard and is dedicated to gearing up for the job of Miss America! Ellen...have a blast this weekend at your send-off!

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.-Matthew 5:16

2011-11-08T15:20:00.000-05:00

And...it's been a while since my last post! Life can really keep ya busy. As promised, I wanted to share a few photos from my sister-in-law's wedding...

Their photographer was Melissa Paquette Photography. You can view more of their pictures on the blog, HERE. It was pretty difficult for me to sit back and let someone else do the work as wedding photographer. It was really nice, I'll admit but just odd when I would catch something and want to run up to fix it. I got to "help" with their bride and groom session, that was good, I guess.

It was a BUSY day, but a great day. Everyone in our family pitched in to make sure the day went off without a "hitch"...other than that of the bride and groom getting hitched! We even made the beautiful bouquets you see in the photos above! Only took 5 hours for 6 or 7 of us to whip up boutonnieres, bouquets, corsages and centerpieces! It wouldn't have been so bad had it not been the day before the wedding BUT they were fresh flowers, so had they been crafted any sooner; they wouldn't have held their beauty.

The flowers were made through The Flowerman, in Columbus...I think!

The same week, Steve and I attended the Laws of Life banquet and awards. I don't have any photos yet. Crystal Jo Foto was actually the photographer for that event, so hopefully we'll see some soon. I was a judge this year and it was truly an honor to read essay's from 20+ students throughout Ohio. It was great to review their stories and hear about their life experiences, those experiences which they've all ready learned so much from and have helped them become the good-character driven students/youth they are today.

Each student that night received a cash scholarship. Pretty nice considering some of them aren't even in high school yet.

Then...I got to see MY Miss Iowa, Diana Reed! Many of you may remember her as one of the guest performers at Miss Ohio 2008. But most of you will remember her as the "baton twirler" who didn't get to perform at Miss America! She made the Top 10 the year we competed at Miss America 2008 together.

She's currently on tour for Disney's Phineas & Ferb LIVE show...which brought her to Ohio for a week! So my FAVORITE person (and host "mom") brought Diana to Columbus so we could catch up. I took them to Marcella's...oh yummy in my tummy just thinking about it! Here's a photo of the 3 of us at the end of the night...

I've written a lot and filled you in on a lot. I think it's time for me to get back to work. Blessings...

2011-10-19T11:39:00.005-04:00

I'm at work, munching on left over chips and guac from Chipotle and thought I'd blog!

Busy, busy, busy. There's never a dull moment in my life! First, I wanted to share some photos from the Weinandy Wedding. I shot Margaux (Love her name!) and Adam with Crystal Jo Foto back in September. This was such a fun wedding and it was practically held in my backyard! Here are some of the awesome shots I took:

There's more where these came from...check out the CJoFoto Blog!

And then...remember that "something exciting" I wanted to tell you about? Well, I think most of you all ready knew...I went to cheer on my friend and Miss Ohio sister, Becky Minger, as she competed in the 2011-2012 Miss Ohio USA competition! I made that drive to Portsmouth and got to catch up with some wonderful people before getting comfy in my seat for the 2 hour show!

The production was really neat, they held the Miss and the Teen competition simultaneously! It made for an exciting show and it flowed really well.

Becky came in as 3rd runner-up! She should be so proud! She was nervous...believe it or not! She had no reason to be, she's an amazingly talented, beautiful and accomplished young woman! She deserved that spot in the Top 5...hey, she was my new Miss Ohio USA! ;)

Also...Cecili Weber came in as 1st runner-up in the Teen division! Remember a couple of months ago, I helped organize a local pageant in my hometown which was a prelim to the Miss Ohio Teen USA pageant? Our winner (Miss GC/South Central Ohio Teen) was 4th runner-up this past weekend...way to go Alexis Laurine!

Here are some photos:

My sister-in-law is getting married this weekend! Wohoo! She's going to be the future Mrs. G.! Onto bigger and better things for her and her new husband! I'm in the wedding...very excited to wear my purple dress! I'll share pictures next week.

Blessings to you until next time...

2011-10-03T21:10:00.001-04:00

It's about time for some wedding photos! We shot the Longman wedding in mid-September at Taylor Manson...with Crystal Jo Foto! Here are some shots I got:

I think I took this one. Ha.

These were funny. Light Girl and Crystal Jo were showing the bride and groom what they wanted them to do...

I took the one in the middle.

Again, I took the one in the middle.

I don't think the CJoFoto crew has any fun at weddings.

We shot two weddings that weekend. I'm sure photos of the second wedding aren't too far behind.

We'll help my sister-in-law celebrate her upcoming nuptials at her bacherlorette party in Columbus this weekend. Should be fun! My lil sis had her freshman homecoming dance this past weekend...I did her hair! Aw, so pretty. BUT...we didn't take any pics. How silly of us. Next week I'll participate and snap photos at the 2011 Ohio Schools of Character Summit. There's another exciting event in about two weeks that I'm anticipating sharing with you...but I'll test your patience!

Love & blessings 'til the next blog...

2011-09-19T21:47:00.001-04:00

Busy again!

On Friday I shot wedding #2 with Crystal Jo Foto, followed by wedding #3 on Saturday! Followed by hosting my sister-in-law's bridal shower on Sunday. Needless to say I've been preparing and getting ready for this one busy weekend.

As soon as Crystal Jo Foto edits photos from the weddings, I will be sure to share them on the blog. But for now, here's one from Friday; the Longman wedding!

The Longman's were married at Taylor Mansion in Columbus. They had beautiful weather for their outdoor ceremony & reception!

My sis-in-law is an avid reader...she carries her Kindle in her purse 24/7. So I took that & created a book inspired "theme" for the bride's shower over the weekend.

Everything from her invitations, the favors & centerpieces had hints & touches of...books. The invitation looked like the cover of a book. The favors were bookmarks. You get the idea.

We had a lot of fun & she got some great gifts. Here are some photos, taken by none other than...Crystal Jo Foto!

The yummy cake/cupcake tower made by the grooms aunt.

One of the centerpieces.

I liked the card holders...they were pages from books & pencils were holding them up.

And the gift table had a display with pics of the bride & groom growing up!

I asked the groom to come & surprise the bride.
He thought it was lame, everyone else loved it!

Thanks for reading. Be blessed 'til next time!

2011-09-09T09:15:00.004-04:00

On September 7 & 8 in 1921, on the beaches of Atlantic City, no one could have imagined that a beauty pageant by the sea would become a spirited American tradition that would still be relevant and thriving 90 years later!

With pride and dedication, we mark our 90^th birthday and salute a great American symbol so rich in history with ideals and true values. These ideals have become timeless and still continue to inspire young women across America to be the very best.

Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan, one of the youngest Miss Americas ever crowned, continues the legacy and helped to mark this special birthday this week in the city in which she was crowned, Las Vegas! Teresa was presented the key to the City of Las Vegas, by the Honorable Mayor Carolyn Goodman. The day was also filled with school visits to continue to support and strengthen our mission of promoting education - the cornerstone to our great tradition. A special thanks to our Miss America Board members, Gloria Fine and Sue Lowden for helping mark this occasion in Las Vegas!

We celebrate all of our Miss Americas this week and their incredible legacies, as we mark this milestone in our organization’s history.

2011-09-02T08:53:00.000-04:00

Way to go Miss Ohio 2011, Ellen Bryan!

She's out on some major highway right now, cycling her tail end off for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals! She's trying to raise $100,000 over the next 20ish days so make sure you donate to this great cause TODAY! Click HERE to make a contribution.

Here are some photos from Monday, the day she kicked-off the Miss Ohio Bike Tour in Columbus. I was so honored to be a part of the first stretch of her 850+ mile tour. We rode with Hans, who was a huge help and made us feel "safe," and Sue Swinehart! I was nervous about riding but it was so much fun. I'm sure, at this point, Ellen wouldn't call it fun but I know she's driven and passionate about this cause. I look forward to riding with her again in a couple weeks, as she completes the tour!

Click here to see a few more photos.

2011-08-28T14:54:00.002-04:00

The Miss Ohio CMNH Bike Tour begins tomorrow & I'm looking forward to being able to ride a few miles with Miss Ohio 2011, Ellen Bryan!

I haven't been training so this should be interesting. I work out and can run a decent stretch, but biking is a whole different story. And I know our Miss Ohio has been diligent about preparing for the bike tour, so hopefully I can keep up. It will also be amusing because the bike I'm riding is not mine...so wish me luck! Wish US luck!

Bike Tour on Facebook

Official Bike Tour website

Donate TODAY

2011-08-22T07:25:00.001-04:00

ITEMS FOR SALE!

We held a yard sale this weekend...and I'll never do it again! It's SO much work. Too much work for the outcome. Salvation Army is getting a nice donation this week!

There are a few items I really want to sell/need to sell. Suits never go out of fashion...for pageant contestants! These suits are perfect for fall/winter appearances and were only ever worn a few times each. The white one I even wore at Miss America! Oh...and they no longer fit me!

The Jessica Simpson hair extensions were a mistake. A friend of mine helped me purchase them and they ended up being blonde on the ends! She said "Just dye your hair to match." Are you kidding?!

Here are the BRAND NEW hair extensions...on craigslist.

Express suit...on craigslist or on Facebook.

Guess suit...on craigslist or on Facebook.

Email me at missoh07@yahoo.com if you or someone you know may be interested in any of these items! I also still have a ton of gowns I'd like to sell and see go to a "good home." I hope to share those this week. Otherwise, those will get donated to Cinderella's Closet Columbus!

Blessings for a good week!

2011-08-16T21:12:00.002-04:00

Steve and I try to go to the Ohio State Fair every year! He likes the 4-H building, I like the horses. He likes the nature area, I like the "flea markets." We both like the food. The entertainment is pretty good, too. We spent 4 hours at the fair before finally sitting down to watch the "Miss Ohio Veterans Road Show" where Miss Ohio, Ellen Bryan, was hosting and singing. Here are some pics:

We attended a family wedding the other weekend. My uncle, who happens to be SEVEN years younger than me, tied the knot! I also started planning my sister-in-laws bridal shower. Oh, and I got a promotion at work. So that's fun! I will be at liberty to share more about my promotion next week.

Miss Ohio is in Orlando cheering on Ohio's Outstanding Teen, Kelsey Barrett! I hope to bike with Ellen on her bike tour, for Children's Miracle Network, in a couple of weeks. I have a bike that was handed down to me by Steve's grandmother. It's a very old bike, easily 20+ years old. Does anyone out there have a road bike I could borrow for one day this month? If so, please email me at missoh07@yahoo.com.

Have a blessed week.

2011-07-18T23:58:00.001-04:00

Busy days call for relaxing days. From Miss Ohio week, to our first wedding of the season, to the Fourth of July...to time to relax! That's just what the doctor ordered...

I was jealous this past weekend when CrystalJoFoto shot their second wedding and I couldn't be a part of it, because we were traveling back to hot and sticky O.H.I.O. Pictures from our first wedding are up and ready to view: CJFoto Blog

Here are some shots I snapped:

We were counting down the days to our vacation, a much needed vacation for myself and Steve! Seven days in the Gulf of Mexico...yes, please! We made a ten hour trip on day one to Atlanta where we stayed with my God parents. They are such wonderful people. They opened up their home to us and cooked a nice meal...it had been since our wedding when we last saw them, so it really was great. Then we made the last nine hours down to LBK! We are all ready booked for next year! Can't wait! Here are some photos of our trip:

Can you see the bee?

Dinner with grandparents & friends at the Oyster Bar. (I don't know why Al is giving the #1 sign? The wine, maybe?)

You can't tell in this shot, but there was a double rainbow! (Nice photo Steve.)

We are all set for the second annual Camp Sharp for Girls day this Saturday! We have fifteen girls registered, praying they all arrive. We are able to provide transportation for the girls this year, we hope this will ensure that they'll be there with us. Last year we had eleven girls signed up but not all showed. It's free to the girls who attend, and we think that because there was no obligation, they didn't have to spend any money, that on camp day they thought "eh" and maybe decided not to go.

We are still looking for donations for Camp Sharp. We are in the process of filing for our 501(c)3 non-profit status. Please email campsharp@yahoo.com if you or someone you know is able to contribute! Keep us in your prayers! Will share photos of CS next week.

2011-07-06T07:13:00.001-04:00

Pretty cool story... click the links below. The new Miss South Carolina has determination:

Daily Mail
Huffington Post

Pardon my blogger absence. I've been preoccupied enjoying life! Hope you all are enjoying your summers!

God's mercy is new every day, because it is needed daily.

2011-06-22T22:36:00.001-04:00

Wohoo...over 10,000 hits!!! Keep 'em coming blogger friends!!!

2011-06-22T07:56:00.091-04:00

"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THAT MEANS YOUR NEW MISS OHIO 2011 IS ELLEN BRYAN!"

Those were the words I had the honor to say on Saturday night!

Wow! Another woman has been welcomed into the sisterhood of Miss Ohio's. What a grand evening it was!

I still cannot get over how quickly last week came and went. I won't lie, last week was one I had been dreading for a while. Between working, taking care of the house and hubby, prepping for emceeing the first night of Miss Ohio prelims, emceeing for finals night, planning the former's reception and helping to organize a local teen pageant in my hometown AND emcee for that, and Father's Day...dread. Happy things but BUSY things.

But it all worked out. I loved every second of last week. And it was over too quick.

We're all ready half way thru this week and my grandmother celebrates her 75th birthday tomorrow!! Another friend celebrates his bday Friday. Camp Sharp is holding a car wash to raise money for our second annual camp day! The car wash is Saturday at 9:30am...camp day is July 23! I also begin shooting the wedding season with Crystal Jo Foto Saturday night. Sunday I'm anticipating going to church for the first time in 2 or 3 weeks!

We're 4 weeks away from Camp Sharp day and 15 DAYS away from my VACATION! Wait? Vacation? Roberta, didn't you just go to California?! Yes...Steve and I are so blessed. I think Steve is trying to make it up to me, the fact I didn't get to go to Vegas this year; so in February (right AFTER Miss America) we booked our Cali trip and FL trip!

But...I'm going off on a tangent...back to Miss Ohio!

That night FLEW by! Built up anticipation, excitement, planning...and it's over! We have a new Miss Ohio! Ellen Bryan! She is going to make a FANTASTIC Miss Ohio!

I have many thank you's to send out. The first is to my husband: Steve traveled to Mansfield with me and helped me the entire day! He even set up the former Miss Ohio's reception! Also, thank you Lorrie for taking time out of your day to let us borrow the vases and giving us beautiful flowers for our reception! Melanie, thank you for the cupcakes and for your help and support in getting the reception ready! We had 11...ELEVEN...amazing former Miss Ohio's in attendance this year! We started this tradition last year, bringing our sister's together to welcome in a new one. There were six women in attendance last year and we had a great showing this year. Thank you:

Karissa Martin (2008)
Melanie Murphy-Miller (2006)
Marlia Fontaine-Weisse (2005)
Tiffany Baumann-Cantelupe (1999)
Kelly Creager (1998)
Renee Autherson-Brown (1992)
Sarah Evans-Tackett (1988)
Melissa Bradely (1984)
Susan Perkins-Botsford (Miss Ohio 1977/Miss America 1978)
Jackie Mayer (Miss Ohio 1962/Miss America 1963)

Thank you to Coni Dalhamer for all your help backstage! I could NOT have done that show with out you there to zip me up and remind me to put on more lipstick! You are always such a pleasure to work with. Thank you John Kunkel, Mark Schnitkey, and Terri Bednarz for allowing me to be a part of this years show. It was truly a highlight of my year.

I also need to thank Betsy Stevenson of Elizabeth Ashleigh Designs (Substance Lofts in Columbus) and Henri's Megastore at Polaris for allowing me to wear their dresses/gowns! I felt like a million bucks in those things!

I could go on-and-on about Miss Ohio! But there's one other thing I'd like to share...a new Camp Sharp video! Stephanie (the Sharp of Camp Sharp) had this idea for our new website! Instead of doing a generic "About Us" section or "About Stephanie" section, she wanted to make a video. I think this thing is awesome! Thank you Doug Carraway and Jason Hart for helping to make our website so sweet!

2011-06-13T12:37:00.000-04:00

Holy cow, Miss Ohio Week 2011 has started and I can't believe it!

My phone died last night, I use it as my alarm every morning. Because of its untimely death, I was still sound asleep at 6:10am...oops! Hopefully that wasn't a sign of what is to come this week. Lord...I have too much going on to be messing it all up! Lots of praying for my sanity...and for the sanity and health of the 2011 Miss Ohio contestants! Right?!

The Miss Ohio contestants have all ready been so busy, in only their fourth full day in Sunny Mansfield! Some of them met the judges for the first time today in their private interviews!

For all things Miss Ohio, check out Miss Ohio's Facebook page, Miss Ohio's Twitter, and a devoted fan/former contestants blog: Abby Bollenbacher!

Also...go to: MissOhioPhotos.com for thousands of pics from this weeks happenings! I'm looking forward to some excitement myself as I travel to Mansfield on Wednesday to co-host the first night of competition with my friend, Becky! It's going to tear me up inside to not be there Thursday and Friday but I'll be back to welcome another sister on Saturday night as Miss Ohio 2011 is crowned! Blessings to you all...

2011-06-07T07:40:00.000-04:00

Pictures from the Miss Mansfield / Miss North Central Ohio / Miss Mansfield's Outstanding Teen send-off party:

Me & Ashley, Miss Mansfield (my "little" sister)

Isabelle, Heather (Miss North Central Ohio), Ashley (Miss Mansfield) & Me

Me with Heather & Ashley

I've known Ashley since 2005! She really is like a "little sister" to me. Watching her grow and mature through the Miss Ohio program has been wonderful. She is such a beautiful sweet young lady and I wish her luck on the Miss Ohio stage!

I have had a few opportunities over the past 3 years to get to know Heather, who is so driven. She has accomplished so much and has experienced a lot on her journey. Nothing but good things to say about this young woman. I know both of them will rock-it at Miss Ohio next week!

This goes for all the 2011 Miss Ohio contestants...don't make it easy for those judges! YOU are your own competition...don't worry about the other girls. Everyone is there for the same reasons: to have fun, challenge themselves, and possibly win the job of Miss Ohio.

I will be praying for each and every one of you amazing young women, to just have the best experience you possibly can...and for good health, of course! See all you next week!

2011-06-03T07:13:00.020-04:00

If you've looked at my Facebook page recently you would know that I am helping organize the first ever Miss South Central Ohio Teen pageant...a prelim to the Miss Ohio Teen USA pageant!

I was approached by two old friends a couple of months ago who wanted to start this local pageant. We held our final information session last night and at each of these info sessions, we've been able to give potential contestants insight to not only the Miss Teen USA/Miss USA pageant system; but also the Miss Ohio/Miss America organizations!

We've had our ups and downs in the process of planning this pageant and we are excited for June 19, 2011! We have four great judges, currently 15 wonderful contestants, a fabulous facility in Grove City to host the event, and a wonderful strong Christian woman to come speak to these young ladies! All of this planning has been eventful, but the other directors and myself just have to keep reminding ourselves why we are doing this.

We want this competition to be FUN for these young women. We want them to enjoy their time and get a small glimpse into what it's like to compete. We want it to be an "introduction" into pageants. We've asked them to wear homecoming dresses, dresses all ready in their closets, or borrow dresses for their evening gown competition. We do not want them or their families spending any money! The winner can choose to use her prize money and go onto compete at the 2011 Miss Ohio Teen USA pageant in October, if she wants to or not.

I also have the honor to emcee this program on Father's Day! Yes...it's the day after our new 2011 Miss Ohio will be crowned in Mansfield. I will surely get my fix of pageantry that weekend! Pray for me. ;)

We are continually looking for sponsors to place ads in our program book. Please email me at: missoh07@yahoo.com if you or someone you know is interested in placing an ad, and I can provide you with price information. Or you can email southcentralohioteen@yahoo.com if you have other questions.

Our Official Miss SCO Teen Photographer is Tasha Braniff Photography! We are trying to keep this program as "local" as possible and Tasha is a perfect match as she is a hometown girl, too.

We are picking out the winners crown this weekend...which do you suggest: tiara style or crown style? "Crown style" is more like a MAO crown and is flat on top and needs pins to secure it. "Tiara style" is similar to what the current state teen winner is wearing in her photo (above).

2011-06-02T13:28:00.003-04:00

Shooting With Crystal Jo Foto

I'm excited for another wedding season with Crystal Jo Foto! Last summer, all the weddings we worked were amazing but I must say, the Vestal wedding was one of my favorites! The bride was stunning in her grandmother's wedding gown! Above are a couple of pictures I snapped. Not jumping the gun too soon though, our first wedding isn't until the end of this month. I hope I am as "on" this year as I was at this wedding...good stuff!

2011-05-25T21:15:00.000-04:00

Armed Forces Veteran's Day Show, Ohio Veteran's Home

Saturday I had the pleasure to visit the largest Ohio VA Home, in Sandusky. Sure it was a long drive but well worth it. I was honored to celebrate Armed Forces Day as the emcee of this show featuring great talent from all over the state.

I was actually a "stand-in." Miss Ohio was all ready booked in Columbus at a sponsor appearance, so I filled in for her! I know she would have loved to be there because supporting our veteran's is close to her heart, and especially because of all the work she has done with the Thank You Foundation.

On the same day as my travels and the show, a friend from my freshman year of college went into surgery. Major surgery. Her best friend asked all of us "OC folk" to wear pink that day, in her honor! I wore a magenta pink dress on the way up and it just so happened the Dancing Divas brought their pink gloves!

We were asked to take pics and share them on our friends Facebook page or email them to her to show her we are thinking of her & support her! Gladly! It's the least we could do! She's an incredible young woman, living in New York & is so accomplished! **Friend update: She's doing really well. Almost back to normal!** Still sending lots of prayers her way.

I also picked up the invitations for former Miss Ohio's to our 2nd annual cocktail hour next month! They were donated by XPress Publishing & Printing in Mansfield!

I'm excited to attend the annual BBB Torch Awards luncheon tomorrow with my Ohio Partners in Character gang! I attended last year for the first time and it's a great event. The Better Business Bureau recognizes local businesses that have shown great business ethics and values and mold that into their business plans, employees, and customers.

In 2010, Lower Lights Ministries was the non-profit to be rewarded; whom Camp Sharp has been able to reach out to, to obtain girls for our one day summer camp! It is a small world after all!

Love & Blessings to you...

2011-05-19T20:22:00.002-04:00

The other weekend was Miss Ohio Community Service and the annual Bowl-a-Thon fundraiser, in Mansfield! After our Miss Ohio partook in those activities, she scooted on down to Columbus to take me to the Make-A-Wish Foundation BIG Wish Gala at the Ohio State University stadium.

What a great event, for such a great cause!

Last year, $760,000 was raised, which was topped in 2011! Numbers are yet to be released but the puppy Becky auctioned off sold for $3,400 and the black Tahitian pearls she also wore for auction went for a whopping $4,500. Crazy thing is, the pearls were valued at nearly $17,000! Can you imagine?!

As we walked into the clear tent located on the 50 yard line of the Shoe, I hear "Roberta!" I never expected to see familiar faces at such a huge event, but sure enough! A friend of mine who is an employee at Columbus Nationwide Children's Hospital was in attendance with his "little sister." He met Jill 4 years ago when she was admitted into the hospital and they just clicked...she is now 8 years old! Jill and her brother (her real bro) liked meeting Miss Ohio, too!

There were close to 1,000 people in attendance that evening to enjoy dinner, friends, the auction, live music and meet some celebrities like Miss Ohio and Ohio State athletes. Yes...I was stupid excited to meet Aaron Craft! Craft is a point guard for the Ohio State men's basketball team! It made my night when Becky said "Come on, we're getting you a picture with him." And we did!

Here are a few photos from our time at the gala:

We also met A.J. Hawk who plays for the Green Bay Packers & Mike Nugent who kicks for the Cincinnati Bengals...among many other well-known "celebrities" and just all around great people! What a fun thing to do on our Saturday night! Thank you, Becky! ;)

2011-05-17T22:21:00.002-04:00

My current work-out playlist includes songs like: Britney "Piece of Me", Gaga "Just Dance", Jason Derulo "Whatchya Say" and Michael Jackson "Billie Jean."

New favorite tunes to jam to while on the treadmill...Miss Ohio contestants feel free to use them! ;)

Written in the stars,

A million miles away,

A message to the main,

Seasons come and go,

But I will never change,

And I’m on my way...

"Right There" was brought to my attention thanks to my Miss Kentucky!

2011-05-08T23:58:00.006-04:00

California & Monterey. But not Monterey, California.

Whirlwind 3 weeks indeed. Anniversary. Trip. Appearance(s).

Alas, our 2 year anniversary has come and passed. In celebration, we traveled to California. My brother-in-law & his wife live in the L.A. area. We've been itching to go out for a while now & our 2nd anniversary was a great excuse.

Disneyland was the order of the day on our first full day out there...& it was amazingly awesome! I like these adjectives & will likely use them often throughout this post. We spent fourteen hours at Disneyland! Fourteen hours! Feet hurt all over again just thinking about it.

Space Mountain, check. Pirates, check. Indiana Jones, check. Minnie Mouse, check. World of Color, check. Wonderful memories were made...including falling & skinning my knees while hiking in Malibu. Yes, scrapped knees are sexy on the Miss Ohio stage, didn't you know?!

;)

Beach volleyball, check. Hermosa beach, check. Malibu beach, check, Santa Monica, check. Can't wait to go back! Here is my album from Facebook with loads of "Cali" pics: Escape to L.A.

Busy agenda upon the return. No time to breath.

Miss Grove City Teen pageant information session & visit to Monterey Nursing Home for National "Nursing Home/Retirement Home" Week!

I was approached by two old friends to help organize the return of the Miss Grove City Teen pageant, which will serve as a prelim to the Miss Ohio Teen USA pageant later this year. This pageant will be held June 19th, yes the day after Miss Ohio finals. Whew. That same evening Miss USA will be televised, so I will get my fill of pageantry.

I had the privilege to visit with residents at a local nursing home to help kick-off their Hollywood Week! It felt good to get back out there & mingle with my community & share my experiences...good prep for the Veteran's show I'll be a part of in a couple of weeks, too.

Here are some photos:

2011-04-24T22:06:00.002-04:00

I want to try something fun here. I mentioned Elizabeth Ashleigh Designs and that they are my dress sponsor for Miss Ohio this year as I have the pleasure of emceeing a few nights. Awesomeness.

Some of our inspiration is organza and red, which is displayed in the photo below. I'd like to get your opinion on what you think I should wear. Although I am limited in which designs to choose from, I think it would be interesting to get your thoughts!

Red vintage cocktail?

(The neckline on the one I may wear is different.)

Red jumpsuit?

Red evening dress?

(One shoulder vs. mock cap sleeve.)

Thanks for your input! There's still more to come. I'll wait 'til we get closer to the big week to share which ones I've chosen.

2011-04-19T15:06:00.003-04:00

Yes, please!

I think Emerald is writing about a few of her friends in this post, I'm one of them! Sunday Crossbow recently uploaded a "wear to work" post and I'm SO excited! She will be a working girl like me really soon and just like me, and millions of other women, she'll need to dress to impress nearly every day. This is not a feat easily won.

First off, Emerald looks fantastic in these photos taken by her hubby, Jared! It's much more fun dressing for work in the summertime as compared to when there are frigged temps outside. I'm excited for dresses and peep toes! Her stories, photos and blog are such good motivation, especially on mornings like this one when I rolled out of bed (unwillingly), put on a black shirt, slacks, black flats and braided my hair...then headed out the door.

This will be a great segue into my future posts and in relation to "interview" wardrobe posts. I'd like to start documenting some of my wardrobe faux pas and victories. Stay tuned...

2011-04-17T22:52:00.010-04:00

I'm all ready exhausted thinking about all that I have to write in order to fill you in on the last 4 or 5 days!

On Friday, I attended the 2nd annual Alleviating Poverty summit at Ohio State, presented by my employer - Fisher College of Business. Not only was I able to bring some enlightenment back to my office but I was able to gain knowledge for Camp Sharp for Girls. CS will hold its 2nd annual summer camp this July!

I represented our camp and was able to meet up with one of the APTE Summit guest speakers, Lou Siepel. CS met Lou a little over a year ago through Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing, where CS will obtain a few of our camp attendees. It was nice to be reassured of Camp Sharps goals and that we are not alone in our efforts to reach out to these young girls.

Next on the agenda...

Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus, held her senior recital at Otterbein last week and Steve and I were able to attend. We tried out a new restaurant (Basil) in the Short North that evening, thanks to our Faveroo coupon! After dinner we scooted on up to Westerville to partake in Erica's festivities. She was adorned by that beautiful green gown she wore at Miss America. The dress alone was a hit! ;) I overheard two guests walking into the auditorium and one said "Wait 'til you see this dress!" Good stuff.

Erica did a phenomenal job. Steve and I have only ever heard her sing during pageant competitions for 2 minutes or less, with one exception when I heard her sing a Broadway tune. The recital was nothing but opera and we were genuinely impressed. You can hear the strength in Erica's voice and she seemed more comfortable on stage. It was truly a pleasure to get to go and witness her performance.

It was also wonderful to see familiar faces like Erica's parents, Ron and Judy, Martha Campbell, Craig Raymaley, and quiet a few other "Miss Ohio folk."

Here are a few pictures:

I have the honor of co-hosting the 2011 Miss Ohio competition with Becky Minger, Miss Ohio 1998 - Kelly Creager, and Heather McDonald this June. I'm beyond thrilled to be just a small part of the show again this summer! I'm also ECSTATIC to be able to wear Elizabeth Ashleigh Designs by Betsy Stevenson (ShopSubstance).

As I mentioned in previous posts, wardrobe plays a key role in confidence, competing or not. As a former Miss Ohio and being on stage again this year, I want to "look my best"...I'll try to keep the plaid at home. ;)

I've teamed up with Betsy, designer/owner of EAD, and we've all ready begun to collaborate on ideas and designs. Last year I brought back the denim evening gown, and I'd like to try to be a little daring again this year. I'm throwing a little vintage into the mix and can't wait to go in for my first fitting! Our inspiration is organza and red! Ooo fun!

Please let me know if you'd like more information on how to get in touch with Betsy! She does fantastic work!

Steve and I celebrate our 2nd anniversary in a week! Wow...how time flies when you're having fun! More to come after the big "2 point 0!" Blessings 'til next time...

2011-04-05T12:12:00.002-04:00

Blog readers that are pageant friends!

If you haven't all ready done so, you MUST join HauteLook.com TODAY! Calvin Klein dresses are on sale for less than $70! This is the closest picture I could find to this CK pleated dress that holds potential as an interview dress:

I have an idea for an upcoming blog post, actually a few blog posts, so be sure to check back because I'll need your help.

2011-04-03T22:22:00.002-04:00

I may be addicted to pictures...taking them and...being in them!

I reconnected with a friend last week, Bryce Millikin of BryceMPhotography and M Magazine.

I met this talented photographer years ago when Janelle Couts, Miss Ohio 2003, introduced us. We've kept in touch and for the first time in a couple of YEARS we finally met and held a photo shoot, for old times sake! I invited Miss Ohio 2010, Becky Minger, along for the ride and we got amazing shots!

Thank you Bryce for taking time out of your busy schedule to snap some photos, and thank you Becky, too! We all gathered in Sunny Mansfield at the Renaissance Theater where a lot of these great images were taken. We wanted to portray something very cutting edge and non-traditional. I'd say the pic with the masks is very non-traditional. I'm in love with these photos and can't wait to see more and share more with you! Until then...

2011-03-30T12:09:00.003-04:00

The ghost of pageant past...

If I had my Miss America interview to do over again, number one, there are a lot of things I would say differently BUT I'd also wear something different. What do you think?

The Ellen Tracy zipper front dress. Too much? Just enough? Ladies getting ready to compete: I'm signed up with HauteLook.com. The dress above is on sale this week for the amazingly affordable price of $55! I'm a bargain shopper and when those competition wardrobe items start adding up, a dime saved here and a dollar saved there can also start to add up. Check out HauteLook.com or other similar sites where you can be sure to see savings.

This is what I wore...a dark red two piece skirt suit with a bow/tie on the front of the jacket from Nordstrom. Speaking of savings, this was sponsored by my wonderful Uncle Steve (or Stefan) from London!

Oh and I loved my shoes, too. I remember my first year competing at Miss Ohio, Kristen Swinehart was my roommate and she wore OPEN TOE heels with her interview outfit! How dare she? She went on to be 1st runner-up at Miss Ohio! Ahh ha ha...little did we all know that the trend and style of Miss America and MAO would change so quickly. Here's that shoe...

It looks white in this pic but it's more of a light bone color, and oh how I still love this shoe. But, if I were to wear a zipper dress like the one above, I think I'd pair it with something like this Nine West pump...

I was never one for the fugly dark nude interview heel! They looked like character shoes on crack!

These shoes are getting better now and I LOVE that minds are opened and more lenient when it comes to wardrobe in the interview room. I'm so happy to see we are able to express our individuality more, even if it is with what we are wearing...

If you were competing in a pageant and had your interview today, what would you wear?

2011-03-23T08:02:00.001-04:00

What to blog about? I've been absent quite a while. I have a feeling this blog entry will not be the typical cheery update from Roberta...however, life has been anything but calm.

The last 3 weeks have presented themselves with gusto and vigor...it's been rough, to say the least. I celebrated another birthday. I caught up with old friends. I planned. I cried. I laughed. I comforted.

Life is so challenging, yes? Just as this blog is titled, my life is no dress rehearsal. I'm blessed with an amazing husband and a supportive mother. Great family and friends. But things can change in an instant...making life feel so complicated.

Why?

It all seems so trivial, to see all of these things my loved ones have been experiencing, then to see everything happening in Japan...

I pray daily and keep moving forward. That's all we can do, right? It's never too late to get back up again.This is getting deep...

I've also been promoted at work. That's groovy. There are a LOT of behind the scenes "things" going on right now...a la the internet! I'm looking forward to sharing more with my readers in the coming weeks/months.

After you attend the Miss Ohio Sweeps pageant on Saturday, go to Melanie Miller's "send-off" to Mrs. America this Sunday...

I will lift my eyes to the maker, of the mountains I can't climb.
I will lift my eyes to the calmer, of the oceans raging wild.

I will lift my eyes to the healer, of the hurt I hold inside.

I will life my eyes, lift my eyes to You...

2011-03-01T15:51:00.007-05:00

First quarterly Camp Sharp newsletter! Also, www.campsharp.org coming to you soon!It's IHOP National Pancake Day. Have you been to IHOP yet to get your free pancakes and make a donation to Children's Miracle Network? I'm going this evening with Steve and my brother-in-law! There's finally one in the Columbus area! Breakfast for dinner, yum!

It's my birthday week! It's been a great couple of days all ready! Steve installed our new ceiling fan light fixtures and I love them! I'll share pics because you MUST see what was there before in order to appreciate...OLD shiny gold chandelier candelabra "thing!"

Also, a few pics from a baby "sprinkle" I went to a couple weekends ago...fun! The idea was a baby SHOWER for the first and a SPRINKLE for the second. Get it?! ;)

Raspberry almond and lemon cupcakes, homemade with love by the guest of honors Aunt!

Me with the guest of honor and her mom!

Other than the above, work, birthday, and trying to enjoy life a little more in this new year...not too much to report. I can't believe it's all ready March!

I'm also anticipating this CD for my birthday: Francesca Battistelli One of her new songs has lyrics I think deserve a mention: "You will never be perfect but you're still worth it, you've gotta just believe, God is bigger..."

2011-02-17T23:07:00.007-05:00

Mmm picture time!

I'm about to head to a college wide chili cook-off! Yum! But before I go, I wanted to share a few pictures of mine...I've known this photographer since high school but have become more acquainted with him over the past year or so as he is trying to branch out of wedding photography to do more. Just more...

I was a "model" for a workshop he held last year for Ohio photographers to work with Zack Arias! Totally fun.

I had the absolute pleasure of meeting his beautiful wife, Emerald, for the first time the day we shot. She's the one with the cool blog: Sunday Crossbow! We really had a lot of fun that day, even though we were freezing! She really impressed me when she went all out, took her coat off and posed for pictures in a sleeveless dress! Her pictures turned out stunning.

Emerald and I would text and email non-stop for about two weeks leading up to the shoot. I felt like we were kindred spirits...I think she has that effect on folks! ;)

This little kitty was awesome and loved the barn! I think his name is Thomas, if I remember right. Of course we had to get a photo with the pitchfork and the kitty!

You may notice in this next pic, the skirt looks very familiar. I wore it with a matching corset top during the M.O. 2010 show last summer! Who would have thought to pair it with a white peasant top and cowboy boots?!We tried to go a little fancier with wardrobe and I paired a basic gray turtleneck with a "fluffy" shiny maroon tool skirt I've had for a few years now! Em let me borrow her clutch.
You should definitely keep up with Jared, the amazing photographer! He's so much fun to work with...if you're in love, getting married or just want to be creative! Or you can email him here: jaredwilliamson@me.com.

I'm excited to meet up with Melanie Miller, yes your NEW Mrs. Ohio America, this weekend! She's going to be very busy these next few weeks preparing for Mrs. America and I'm thankful she's squeezing me into her calendar to help me brainstorm and prepare for the second annual Former Miss Ohio's cocktail hour/get together!
And...wishing my beautiful mother a very happy and blessed birthday today! Thank you for always being there for me mom, you deserve the best day and year!

I think that's all, for now! Blessings 'til next time!

2011-02-12T21:09:00.001-05:00

This very moment, one year ago, we brought our sweet little puppy home from the shelter! Our cousin who is an agent for the Capital Area Humane Society knew we were on the hunt for a critter and she knew we wanted to "rescue." We got call after call and were looking online tirelessly, until finally, there was Carmen!

Carmen was "Kayla" when we first met her, a tiny black baby bear all alone in the middle of white shreds of paper everywhere! We were so happy to meet her and thrilled when we heard she would be ours!

The first night we had her home, Feb. 12, 2010, it took me more than 2 hours to fall asleep because I just knew she would cry. Nope...perfect from the beginning. We have had so much fun with our little puppy, who isn't so little anymore. Sure she has nicknames of Putz, Dummy and crazy animal but she's really added a lot of joy to our lives.

We brought her home at 2.5 months, and we celebrated her 1st birthday this past December! And now we're celebrating our "one year anniversary" together! She really has made this year memorable...it's been a great year!

Here are a few pictures through the past twelve months:

Still at the shelter, waiting to come home!Finally home and ready to play!

On one of her first walks, she loves the snow.Probably 5 or 6 months old here...she actually still fit on my lap, not so much anymore.One of my favorites, she's very patient in front of the camera. This was summer of 2010, probably 9 or 10 months.Giving (and getting) anniversary hugs!
You aren't too big Carmen, you're still our puppy!

2011-02-08T00:01:00.001-05:00

A few updates!

Please check out Emerald's blog when you get a chance! It's a "Style Blog" and I think my readers will really enjoy her take on fashion, great finds, trends; etc.

She recently blogged "Violet Hour" in which she wears a violet dress, in a barn, with a friend...me!

Mind you, it was somewhere between twenty and thirty degrees the day we shot. Luckily our friends home was 10 short steps away, when we needed a quick warm up.

The idea behind the shoot is hollywood glam / country chic. I spent a lot of time brainstorming what I wanted to emote in the photos and at first I thought "broken beauty queen" but after chatting with Emerald, the concept ended up being even better. This first photo makes me laugh, we were trying to look at each other without giggling and give each other what I like to call "gazer-beam eyes!" Em looks great, me on the other hand, I can see my smirk from here. I am really excited to see more of the photos, but here are two of Emerald and myself:It's great to be in front of the camera and behind the camera. I had no idea what image Jared, Em's hubby, was capturing but it sure is stellar!

Also this weekend Becky and I had the pleasure to venture out to cheer on our Miss Ohio sister, Melanie Murphy Miller, as she competed and WON the Mrs. Ohio America pageant! Becky and I really had no idea what to expect but were thrilled that Melanie walked away as the new Mrs. Ohio 2011.

Hopefully Melanie will have a little say in the show, script, performers, etc.; next year. It took 2.5 hours for seven ladies to compete! Us MAO folk know you can get through 20+ contestants in 2 hours or less! Other than the length of the show being LONG, we had a great time. For Becky and myself, it's always "different" to be sitting in the audience.

Congrats, Mel! Onto Mrs. America!I hope you like baby pictures because I've got more to share! Baby Norah was born at the end of January and we took her newborn photos when she was only 7 days old...aww! She was such a trooper with all the headband changes!

Happy Tuesday!

2011-02-04T00:46:00.000-05:00

Alright blogger friends & readers: I must sell/purge/discard of many clothing items in the three closets at my house! That's right, I said THREE! Don't worry, they're small(ish)! But I need your help...

I've posted a few items on CraigsList, here:

VS Sweater Dress
Studio Y Cocktail Dress
Max & Cleo Cocktail Dress
One Shoulder Leopard Cocktail by Sele
Maggy London Cocktail Dress
Adrianna Papell Champagne Cocktail Dress
Two toned 'business' dress by Bailey Blue
Red/Black Halter Cocktail Dress

Also, I have a Facebook album with items that are still up for grabs, here:

My Dresses Album

All prices are negotiable! Everything must go by this spring, otherwise it's Plato's Closet & Goodwill time!

Thanks!

2011-02-01T21:46:00.005-05:00

Holy moly, where has time gone?! Where did January go?!

The new year is off to a great start. We welcomed Norah Jane into the "family friends" group this weekend! She was 3 weeks early, but all is well with mom and new baby!

I am taking her newborn baby photos this weekend and am excited to use handmade headbands! They're so cute...we made them with materials from Hobby Lobby! Speaking of newborn pics, here are a couple I took of Baby Cameron a few weeks ago (he's 10 days old):

I had some pictures of my own taken this past weekend with the Wonderful Williamsons' (Jared and Emerald) and boy let me tell you, they are awesome! We were on location at...a barn! A beautiful, beautiful, huge barn! We went for this hollywood glam meets country chic feel! I am so excited to share (and see) some of the "final product!"

Also this weekend, Camp Sharp made a visit to Marmon Valley campgrounds in Zanesfield. We are really optimistic about the possibility to hold our 2nd annual girls camp at this site, which offers everything we could ask for to the girls we are reaching out to. The best part is, they have horses and horseback riding lessons! What 10 year old girl wouldn't be psyched about that?! We are visiting one other camp location, which is a little closer to Columbus than Zanesfield. But we are overjoyed about the possibilities that God will provide to CS this year! We hope to have a newsletter out in the next couple of weeks, keep you posted...

This weekend will be another busy one. The Miss Maple City pageant is holding its 20th anniversary on Saturday in Norwalk! I'm honored to be a part of the event as a guest and entertainer. I also have a big date on Sunday with Miss Ohio 2010! We will be in Columbus to cheer on our Miss Ohio sister, Melanie Murphy-Miller as she competes for the Mrs. Ohio America title!

Sending you mid-week blessings blogger friends!

2011-01-25T13:53:00.007-05:00

Vote for my friend: Emerald

in the Next Big Styleblogger Contest from Refinery29.com!

Photo by Jared Williamson

2011-01-16T15:26:00.001-05:00

Boy am I biting my tongue! Of course as soon as I 'admit' to being good at 'picking' winners, I'm completely off. Did you notice, Miss Nebraska isn't even on my list below? I had trouble with the prelim winners because not always do they get a spot in the Top 15. I put Alabama in over Nebraska. Oops.

Teresa Scanlan, Miss America 2011, reminds me so much of Kirsten Haglund! Even the age "thing." Kirsten was 19 when she won Miss America. I even thought their dresses were very similar, long sleeve, white tones, jeweled, etc. And the blonde hair, not to mention the fabulous ability to speak so eloquently from the heart...making you feel like they are wise beyond their years.

I thought Becky looked amazing last night, each time the camera would pass her I kept saying "They're keeping the camera by her, she'll be next! She'll be next!" Sure enough, she wasn't called. I can only imagine the emotions that were running through Becky and the other contestants last night. You work so hard and dedicate so much of your time to this one goal, then to not make it can be torture. This was obviously not in God's plan for Becky. Holly & I said it lastnight, something bigger & better is in store for her.

I'm sure this young lady will represent MAO well! Photo of Miss America 2011 just after winning (from the Miss America Organization):
Side note...do you remember Miss Virginia moon walking during her talent last night?! Awesome...

2011-01-15T15:39:00.001-05:00

I'm going to do it. After much hesitation & debate, I've decided "it's ok" to share my thoughts on who I think might make the Top 15 "cut" in the 2011 Miss America pageant!

It's been a while since I've done this, probably since Miss America 2007, when Melanie Murphy-Miller competed! Anyone who knows me, knows I am an optimist. I thought I would make the Top 16, I thought Karissa & Erica both would have been in the "top," but you never know.

I will brag a little here, I'm usually very good at picking the top contender...winner! This year, just like my year, it's been so hard to pin-point one young woman who I see IS Miss America. Katie Stam-Irk stood out, as well as our current Miss America, Caressa Cameron. I am bias, who are we kidding Ohio? We all are right now! When Becky spoke during her send-off party, she made me feel like she was Miss America. She is totally 100% completely ready and prepared to take on this job and she wants it. I hope her judges this year see that drive in her. Just like everyone else though, I am glad I'm not a judge!

I have continued to be involved with MOSP on various committee's and so forth. Therefore, I've been able to be entirely in the loop on all MA happenings this week. My list is based on bio, photos (candid & professional), videos, speaking ability, prelim wins at state & MA, and just 'gut' instinct if you will.

This is extremely difficult with only ever speaking to ONE contestant, that being Becky. We don't get to see their interviews and that's where the judges fall in love with these young women...but here goes nothing:

Alabama

California

Connecticut

Delaware

Hawaii

Iowa

Kentucky

Maine

Mass.

Minnesota

New York

Oklahoma

Ohio

Rhode Island

South Dakota

My 'bubbles' are: New Jersey, North Carolina and Texas.

Feel free to leave a comment with your list or thoughts! Off to Dayton...

2011-01-13T14:36:00.002-05:00

Say this ten times fast:

Brooke Burke's Blog

You bet I'll be reading this over the weekend! Burke writes on how a mother's work is never done and it's an entertaining read of a blog as she prepares her "entourage" for a trip to Las Vegas. I get the feeling she's excited to host the Miss America pageant in Vegas. Hey, I'm excited to watch the Miss America pageant!

Steve and I won't be in Sin City, but we will be in Dayton, Ohio! Ahh ha ha! We're going to slum it with the Miss Ohio Booking Manager, Holly Campbell-Bradley, "her Steve" and a few other folks on Saturday night! I'll be sporting my camouflage Rocky (aka Becky) tshirt!

I also plan to keep tabs on the following:

Abby's Blog

Miss Ohio's Facebook Page

Abby Bollen-Blogger's FB Page

Miss America's Facebook Page

2011 MA Contestant Tweets

Watch the 90th Anniversary Miss America pageant LIVE on ABC, this Saturday (Jan. 15th) @ 9PM EST!!! Go Becky, go! Love you girl!

2011-01-11T14:16:00.005-05:00

I've got the inside scoop here!

I know wardrobe plays an important role when competing at Miss America. Even though you are not 'judged' on what you wear, you exude confidence if you are wearing a garment you feel powerful in. And confident is one thing Miss America must be. Because we are in the middle of Miss America Week madness, everyone is a buzz about "Who is wearing what?"

I've got pictures of Miss Ohio, Becky Minger, just after her private interview with the 2011 M.A. judges! Eyes closed & all, she looks radiant in this new Bebe by Kardashian dress! Can't wait to see her on that Miss America stage tonight...from my computer of course!
This wasn't her original pick for her interview outfit. She found it very last minute and she said as soon as she saw it "That's me." The rest was history. I'm sure she knocked it out of the park!

2011-01-07T14:12:00.000-05:00

And so it has begun...Miss America 2011!

I talked to Becky on Wednesday night and she is in such good spirits! She's going to make Ohio proud!

Keep checking these sites for updates from Vegas:

Miss Ohio's Facebook Page

Miss America 2011 Contestant's Twitter Feed

Abby Bollenbacher's Blog

The Pageant Blogger's Twitter Feed

2010-12-30T17:09:00.017-05:00

My top 2010 memories (a few of them at least):

11) Finding & being blessed by my job at OSU is tied with helping friends welcome new family members into the world.

10) Holding the first annual Camp Sharp for Girls.
9) Discovering photography.

8) Remodeling my kitchen.
7) Being a part of the 2010 Miss Ohio pageant.

6) Taking a road trip to Washington, D.C. & Arlington, VA.
5) Watching my friend become Miss Ohio 2010.

4) Traveling to Vegas for Miss America 2010.

3) Bringing our puppy, Carmen, home from the shelter.

2) Graduating from The Ohio State University.

1) Celebrating one year of marriage to my incredible
husband, Steve.

Have a safe, happy & blessed new year blogger friends & readers! 2011 is going to be great!

2010-12-22T14:58:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas!

It's a slow day at work today. Getting together with family tonight is what's helping me through. Our Christmas festivities begin this evening with a few family members who are "out of town." We're eating out...Mexican! Yum. Tomorrow we will be baking all day, preparing gifts and pies for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

I am singing in a wedding on Monday and have the rehearsal Sunday. The bride is the daughter of the Ohio Partners in Character Education director! I'm really looking forward to it. Hopefully my days off won't go too fast. But then again the week after will be another short one as we prepare to ring in 2011!

Steve and I went to Sylvania on Saturday for Becky's send-off celebration to Miss America! It was such a great event and Becky did an outstanding job during the "show."

The party was at a country club that holds many memories for Becky and her family. She is remembered there as the "pot of gold baby!" I won't go into detail but it was one of many stories that her dad, Mike, shared with us. It was wonderful getting to see so many faces, family, Miss Ohio family, and friends as we all gear up for the holiday.

Christmas music it was for Saturday evening. Traditional Christmas carols were performed by most of Becky's Top 5 from Miss Ohio: Shannon O'Neill, Marisa Bucheit and Ellen Bryan. I was absolutely honored when Becky asked me to sing "Blessed" for her. I sang a 'different' version this time around.

As most know, talent selections for MOSP/MAO range from 90 seconds to 2 minutes in length. So the version of "Blessed" I've always performed in the past was that 1 minute 58 second one. Obviously there's more to the original song sung by the amazing Rachel Lampa. There's a break in the song that I will never attempt. (Who am I kidding? I've attempted it, but will never do so in public!) I got to sing almost the entire original version of the song for Becky on Saturday!

The song is very fitting for what she's about to experience.

As she introduced me to sing, she had so many humbling things to share about our history. Of course she made me cry so when I grabbed the mic all those things I wanted to say slipped my mind, so I would like to share them now:

I was truly honored to sing for Becky at her send-off that marks a new journey at this stage in her life. Becky kept saying she can't believe this send-off is hers, it's not mine, it's not Karissa's, it's not Erica's...it's Becky's! Believe it sister. God has prepared you for something and even though we don't know what the future holds we do know that God's plan is awesome and His will be done in January! Becky has touched so many lives all ready as Miss Ohio and she'll touch so many more as Miss America! Win or no win though, she's got determination to do the best job she can at whatever God has challenged her to. She has grown SO much since that day we met back in 2006 at Miss Greater Dayton! It's been such a joy to see her become this outstanding woman who is now and forever will be my "Miss Ohio Sister." I was so blessed at Miss America, Becky, and I hope you will be blessed; too.

Soapbox...sorry 'bout that.

I didn't take the "big" camera on Saturday and I so wish I would have, as these photos aren't the best quality. My paparazzi husband tried his best:

2010-12-17T16:11:00.001-05:00

Christmas Cheer...it's in the air! Last night marked my sixth year volunteering for Salvation Army of Central Ohio Christmas Cheer program! It's such a great program and Steve wanted to go along this time.

Steve was a rookie but did a stellar job! About four weeks ago we volunteered at one of the S.A. office/church locations to get families registered for C.C. Last night we signed up to be shoppers in the toy shop during distribution! This was my first time as a shopper, years passed I checked families in as they arrived at the Ohio State fairgrounds.

Being a shopper was an eye opener! You get a one-on-one experience with the families! We didn't stop once for nearly three hours, but it went by so fast. I wonder how many families I took through the toy shop.

Steve & I are pictured here just as we were beginning to go through the toy line. I think he had fun, too!

There were a lot of great parts to the evening but I really enjoyed seeing some of the young kids faces when they were presented with gifts that you could tell just made their day! For instance, one young girl got her very own MP3 player and another 12 year old was asked if she liked Justin Bieber. She shook her head "no." She was then asked if she liked Taylor Swift and when she said "yes" they pulled out her latest CD! The look on this young girls face was priceless!

We're really looking forward to Becky's send-off tomorrow! I will definitely share pictures when we return. Until then...

2010-12-14T09:38:00.001-05:00

Maternity photos for Crystal Jo turned into a baby shower for Pixie Jo!

A few weeks back I had the honor to shoot maternity pictures for the fabulous Crystal Jo (of Crystal Jo Foto) and her wonderful hubby, Jason. I was nervous. She's the professional, not me, but she did teach me and she is the best! Myself and another photog snapped some pics at the shower, too.

Click HERE for Crystal Jo's blog to see awesome pics from her shower and beautiful moments captured at the same location as her wedding...

From maternity...the mother & father patiently waiting (& having a good time while doing so):
To shower...preparing to shower their little one with love:

2010-12-07T21:31:00.002-05:00

The Miss America Organization announced yesterday an opportunity for America to vote for a finalist in the 2011 Miss America Pageant, presented by DSW live from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on Saturday, January 15, 2011 on ABC. Vote now for Becky to become America's Choice!

Becky's Video

You can vote once per method: 1) "Like" her video by following the link above, 2) Text "MAOH" to 24470, 3) Voting for Becky at MissAmerica.org/VideoContest, and 4) "Like" Becky's video at Youtube.com/MissAmericaOrg! Go Ohio!

2010-11-24T10:33:00.006-05:00

Reflecting & reminiscing...

I told you I was getting new photos for a purpose. You'll see some of those in my portfolio, and some of them look like "head shots." Why would I need a new head shot you ask? This past Saturday, I put my character shoes on for a minute and auditioned for "Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat." I was in Joseph years ago at a community theater and played the role of one of the wives. The theater bug has been nipping at me lately so I thought to give it a shot.

I prayed and prayed about this opportunity. Whether or not I should even attempt it. What song should I sing? What should I wear? And of course the ultimate question, what do I do if I don't get a "part?" Ladies & gentlemen, I was offered to be in the "adult ensemble" which is, the chorus. Sadly, I didn't get a part.

After lots of prayer, I decided to decline the offer. It was with a heavy heart though. I wanted that to be something "big" for this upcoming year, but that's obviously not what God wants for me...& Steve. So we'll see what He has planned next for us.

This whole photography thing is really taking off. I'm getting really great feedback on some photos from recent shoots. Maybe that's the route I'm supposed to go. Maybe I'm supposed to join a church choir again. Who knows?! I'm ready whenever you are, Lord! ;)

It's Thanksgiving tomorrow!!! I'm excited for this holiday, and Christmas of course. This year has really gone by so fast. I traveled to Vegas for Miss America, celebrated one year of marriage to my amazing husband, graduated, went to D.C., and got a job! Wait, Roberta...what am I doing?! We've got FIVE weeks left in 2010, don't rush it! Ha!

This is a photo from 2005, I think! Our second Thanksgiving together! So this makes it our sixth!
The Smeck Family (Shot at Franklin Park Conservatory)

Annie & Finnigan (Shot at Darby Metro Park)

Have a happy & blessed Thanksgiving, all!

2010-11-03T21:04:00.001-04:00

And it's November! Can you believe it? Thanksgiving is less than FOUR weeks away...ahh!

Last year my farther-in-law "allowed" me to make the green bean casserole for the family get together. I wonder what concoction he'll "let" me bring this year, now that I have this amazing kitchen to work with. I've been contemplating pumpkin pie...yum.

It feels like it's been longer than a week since I last blogged. Ugh, time is flying too quickly these days. I feel like I should have something HUGE to blog about, but life has been pretty "calm" lately. Whew. So what have I been up to? Steve & I "celebrated" our 1.5 year wedding anniversary with dinner at Barrio Tapas...again, yum!

We passed out candy for trick or treat night in my neighborhood. It was FREEZING out, I don't know how those little tikes did it! I had a few favorite costumes from the evening: a green dinosaur, a 3 year-old UPS man, & Super Mario & Luigi!

I've been happily busy at work. I'm the "Bucks for Charity" resource in my department for the upcoming holidays and I'm also coordinating the department holiday get together. Yes! I think event planning is in my blood. Some people hate it, I love it.

I finished shooting & editing my sister-in-laws engagement pictures. Whew! I don't know how the professionals do it. No, I know how they do it, that's ALL they do. Ha! I also had a family photo shoot over the weekend & I'm actually editing their images now. I've got TWO other shoots lined up. Everyone wants pics now, for the holidays! I'm lovin' it!

Speaking of pictures...I had a little mini photo shoot myself with my (personal) photographer! She'd laugh at me for calling her my personal photog. ;) Love you Crystal Jo! As soon as I get some photos back from her, I'll be sure to share some on the blog. There IS a reason of course that I'm taking more photos! Jeeze, a girl can never have enough photos! Ha! I hope to be able to share that "reason" with you in four weeks or so. Wink.

But for now you'll have to settle for my mad photographer skills:I think Genevieve is the new Gerber baby!

2010-10-26T13:08:00.001-04:00

Wohoo! I got to meet the reigning Miss America, Caressa Cameron, and Katie Stam, Miss America 2009, last night. As well as see former Miss America, Phyllis George, again! I had the pleasure to meet her this past January in Las Vegas.

Miss Ohio, Becky Minger, came to Columbus for the event at Value City Furniture, and Sarah Hider, the new Miss Central Ohio, was in attendance; too! Kathy Wise, ED of the MCO program, and Sue Swinehart, MOSP board member and MO traveling companion, were along for the ride and were fabulous at capturing all of the moments that happened throughout the evening.

Whew, I'm tired this morning but it was worth every second. Why wouldn't I go see Miss America while she's in Columbus, right? I remember MY Miss America (Kirsten Haglund) being in Grove City of all places back in 2008, and I got to see her while she visited a local store for a Sweet D Onion promotion that went hand-in-hand with her platform of eating disorder awareness and healthy eating.

I know I've said it before but, I love this stuff! Here are some photos from the fun last night:I'm so excited for Vegas!!

2010-10-25T10:33:00.000-04:00

What a weekend! This week is off to a good start, too.

I was Miss Ohio's "chaperone" (Ha!) on Friday night at the 2010 OSU Homecoming parade. We had a lot of fun. Becky was all ready in Columbus from a school appearance she had earlier in the day. We met up and walked to the Horseshoe where she got pictures with other parade participants, OSU legendary look alike's, Buckeye fans, Archie Griffin and Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen. Here are some photos:

I love you, Archie Griffin!

O.H.I.O. with Becky, Lorrie, & Cecili!

Saturday I went to the Miss Central Ohio pageant in Newark with my amazing date, my mother. I haven't attended a prelim competition in at least a year, even though I was a part of the Miss Mansfield show last year. I love being able to just enjoy the evening from the audience.

Katie Camp, outgoing MCO, and Becky did a fantastic job hosting Saturday night. Congratulations to Sarah Hider, Miss Central Ohio 2011, and a congrats to all the other young women. To all the ladies who did compete, feel free to email me at missoh07@yahoo.com if you would like feedback from your performances.

I had another photo shoot with my sister-in-law and her fiance yesterday. Long story short, I shot a wedding last Saturday and used a memory card from the wedding for my sis-in-laws shoot. Well, not all the pictures were taken off the card and I wasn't sure if I should delete them in case they hadn't been uploaded. SO...we only took about 20 or 30 pictures then, and I like to get well over 100 photos to choose and edit from. We had fun and it was another beautiful day outside. Yep, I took these pics:
I'm planning to see Miss America 2010, Caressa Cameron, tonight in Columbus. She will be at a Value City store along with Phyllis George, whom I had the pleasure of meeting back in January. You can bet I'll be posting pics. ;)

Today is also mine and Steve's 1.5 year wedding anniversary! Loving every minute of it...Have a blessed week.

2010-10-17T20:50:00.000-04:00

I'm sore, achy, cold, and tired after a LONG week and weekend. But that's ok...I've had a fantastic past couple of days.

I was in a shoot for JoAnn Fabrics. I was a part of the Ohio Schools of Character Summit. I was able to snap some photos at a beautiful wedding in Troy. I got to cheer on my brother-in-law who ran in the Columbus Marathon. Rounding it all out with a mini engagement session with my sister-in-law! It's catching up with me now.

Obviously, I have a ton of pictures to share. But I want to high light my brother-in-laws efforts as he kicked his time from the LA Marathon, which was approx. 5 hrs. 45 mins. He finished 5 hours 30 mins yesterday! It's a lot colder in Ohio than in Cali and he was jet lagged from the flight, too. Below, Nick (bro-in-law) is pictured with his best friend Tom, who also ran!You guys really did a great job and are an inspiration. I wanted to run the half with my friend Stephanie, but maybe next year!

Lots going on in "pageant land." MOSP has not yet disclosed the 2011 location of the pageant. A new titleholder was crowned this past weekend. This weekend is another local in Newark (Central Ohio) as well as the Miss Ohio USA pageant. AND...the Buckeyes homecoming is Saturday, against Purdue.

I was able to secure a spot in the 2010 Ohio State Homecoming Parade for Miss Ohio, Becky Minger, and Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen, Cecili Weber! I'll be sure to share photos asap.

"What you do speaks so loud that I cannot hear what you say." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010-10-11T14:38:00.001-04:00

I'd like to share a couple photos I captured this weekend of the adorable baby Kinley:

2010-10-08T08:50:00.003-04:00

Camp Sharp is all ready in planning stages for next years one day summer camp for girls!

We're meeting today with the COO of the Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing and Community Properties of Ohio to discuss collaboration, partnership, sponsorship, and ideas. We are extremely blessed to have this opportunity to connect with OCCH and continue to brainstorm and network.

OCCH and CPO are merged organizations that help restore homes/buildings in low income neighborhoods and they actually hold a summer camp for those children that are affected by housing. I can't tell you how good we are feeling about our initial meeting and I can't wait to share more with you on how everything goes.

Another exciting item with CS...we're on Facebook and Twitter! Watch out. ;)

Please "like" us or become a fan on Facebook, here: www.facebook.com/CampSharp

Follow us on Twitter, here: www.twitter.com/CampSharp

This weekend has turned out to be another relaxing one, which I'm so relieved of. I really value theses two days that God gives me to rejuvenate and reflect. Next week is a whole other story. I'm looking forward to being a part of the annual Ohio Schools of Character Summit, which is presented by the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio and Ohio Partners in Character Education; where I serve on the board.

**Congratulations to one of my best friends, Cassi, and her hubby on the birth of their first daughter this week!**

Cassi and I have been friends since 8th grade and she was the matron of honor in my wedding last year. They made one beautiful newborn baby girl, Kinley!

Enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend and Go Buckeyes!!

2010-10-02T16:14:00.005-04:00

My favorite photo of the day:I had some girl time this morning with my sister & mom. We met in "old downtown" and had a mini photo shoot followed by brunch at Lilly's Kitchen. I had such a good time and the Buckeyes win which preceded it was perfect, too.

Faye was my model this morning. Not only does she aspire to become a famous country singer but I'm attempting to expand my portfolio, as well. It's a win-win. If I get a chance, I'll share some more pics from our time together. Otherwise, click on "Roberta's Photography" to check out some of my (so-so) skills. ;)

2010-09-24T09:50:00.000-04:00

Steve and I attended the Laws of Life Banquet last night, in Columbus. I've been attending every year for the past five years, but this was Steve's first time going. I was really happy to join in the excitement of the evening and having Steve there put the icing on the cake.

The Laws of Life Awards & Essay Contest are presented each year by the Better Business Bureau of Ohio/Columbus. Click HERE for more information on the program, it is a great one.

We enjoyed sitting with some of those who judged the middle school and high school student essays, as well as with Dr. Mike Thomson who founded the program: It's All About Character. He and I have had the honor in the past to speak at OPCE functions and the LOL awards ceremony. But last night, we were both off the hook.

I look forward to being a part of the Ohio Schools of Character Summit next month. Here are just a couple photos from our evening:(Steve & I with Lucy Frontera, OPCE Director and Kip Morse, President of BBB Columbus. Thanks to Jessica for snapping these shots!)

2010-09-14T10:07:00.004-04:00

My dear "personal" photographer, "boss", & friend, Crystal Jo, is holding a day of fun holiday photo sessions on October 10. Here are more details:
Visit her site at www.crystaljofoto.com or email her at crystal@crystaljofoto.com for more info!

2010-09-13T21:32:00.000-04:00

Just for fun...

I like fashion. I love to watch Project Runway. I have a folder of sketches I made from when I was younger. I made a sketch of an evening gown for former Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus. I was bored and checked out some of the styles from the VMA's the other night:

Don't even get me started on Lady Gaga or Justin Bieber.

I like Katy Perry's style. That's it. I'm not a fan of her or her music. I like her dress here, from the VMA's (Photo from Yahoo.com). What do you think? She's emulating an ice skater! And Ashley Greene, I love her. She plays Alice in the Twilight movies. I think these two had the same idea in mind.Another one from the VMA's is Brenda Song, from Nickelodeon's "Suite Life on Deck", reminds me of Jeannie. Jeannie was one of our judges during Miss America Reality Check!
And now if you never hear from me again it's because my husband has killed me for adding this next photo:How stinking cute is he? My husband that is. On our recent trip to D.C., a girl looked at him & said "Did anyone ever tell you, you look like JT?" Ha! He actually used to get that a lot when he was "younger." Aww. My hubby's much better looking!

2010-09-07T09:33:00.023-04:00

I guess Steve & I were pretty enthusiastic "tourists" in D.C. this past weekend. We had two full days of site seeing in the Capitol City. We went 10am to 10 or 11pm each day and by the end of the day we were exhausted. I took close to 100 pictures. I won't bore you with them all, but here are a few:

Me & Kasey just outside Arlington House.

Me & Steve at the Smithsonian.
In front of the Capitol Building.

We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and are all ready looking forward to going back. Our hostess, Mrs. Kasey Wilson-Johansen, was the best hostess in the entire universe! She was so welcoming and even fixed us fajitas! Ha! It's making my tummy growl just thinking about them.

We made the drive on Thursday and were sure to catch the OSU Buckeyes take on Marshall that night at the "Buckeye Bar" in Georgetown. It was wild in there! A regular of the Buckeye Bar said, "It's worse on college football Saturday's." I couldn't imagine! Yikes.

We were able to keep our eyes open to watch the Buckeyes win then navigated our way back the Johansen residence in Arlington. We got an early start the next day and visited the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History first, where I got this picture:

What do you think? New Facebook profile picture?! Ha! Hilarious!

Natural History was followed by lunch at one of the national art gallery's. Then we trucked in 90 degree humidity to make our Capitol Building tour given by one of Ohio congress woman's, Mary Jo Kilroy, pages. Tatiana was a wonderful tour guide, admitting to us at the end that we were her first tour!

That night we took in the Jefferson Memorial, which was beautiful. Who ever told us to see some of the sites at night, thank you. Everything really was so neat.

The next day Kasey dropped us off downtown and we were on our own. We went to the Holocaust Museum, which was awesome. Can I say that? I mean it was really an extraordinary place with so much history and information. I'm still amazed that those horrible events of the holocaust happened just over 60 years ago.

We tried to stop in the Air & Space Museum but that place was way too crowded for our liking so we opted for lunch at the Native American Museum. We ventured thru the sculpture garden on our way to the National Archives. We didn't go into the Archives because there was a line outside the building wrapped around the corner of the street. We really wanted to see that Declaration though. Next time.

We saw Julia Child's kitchen AND the American Flag in the Museum of American History on our way to the Washington Monument. Then Kasey to the rescue! She picked us up and we were on our way to Arlington Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was my favorite part of our trip. I was reminded of a lost soldier and friend, Eric Bernholtz, who served our country in Lima Company as a Marine.

We made our way back home to pick up MR. Wilson-Johansen ;) on our way to dinner at Guapo's! Of course I asked Kasey to find a good Mexican food restaurant for us while we were out there!

Our last night in D.C. we journeyed to the WWII memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. We were able to get a great O.H.I.O. shot with the Washington monument!
There is still so much to see in that city. We tried to get a tour of the White House but had no luck. That is on our to-do-list for our next trip as well as the Ford Theater and of course the Declaration of Independence. The list goes on.

This is a quiet week for me & Steve & it's long overdue. I should have a completed 100% fully functioning kitchen this weekend just in time for the Buckeyes to take on Miami of Florida!

'Til next time...blessings.

2010-08-31T08:18:00.010-04:00

Where do I begin? Let's begin with whoa...I'm a college graduate. For some who read these words, they may not resonate as much. Being a college grad hits deep with me.

I am the first in my immediate family to graduate from college with a four year bachelor's degree. My mother has an associates degree in computer science, my stepmother a degree in textiles and my husband is well on his way, but I am "the first!"

I started off my college career straight out of high school at Otterbein College. I found out quickly that Otterbein was not for me. I graduated high school with more than 430 students in my class. At one point, in high school, there were more than 2,000 kids in all four classes. There were less than 1,500 students that lived on Otterbein's campus. For me, it felt smaller than high school and that wasn't the way I thought college was supposed to be.

I took another big jump and decided to move back home and take classes at Columbus State Community College, to obtain enough credit hours to transfer to Ohio State University. In 2006, I was accepted to OSU! I took classes for one year and was named Miss Ohio 2007!

I was more than happy to put those last few quarters on hold to be Ohio's representative. But back to school for me in 2008 and on August 29, 2010 I was announced as an OSU alum! Wow, wow, wow. It has been such a journey for me. If you can imagine, this is why I feel so elated with pride, humbleness, gratefulness, thankfulness.

My mother taught me how to be committed at an early age. All my hard work has paid off. It's a bittersweet feeling. It feels odd to go home and not have to write, research, study, etc. When I'm doing something now, I can just do it and not have to worry about having enough time to read this chapter or update that group assignment, and so on.

This event in my life, well everything in my life, is a God thing. It all comes from Him. Without Him I would not be where I am today. My graduation gift from my husband is a new kitchen. My graduation present from my parents was my grad party. My graduation gift to myself is a trip to Washington, D.C.! Suffering produces perseverance, perseverance to character, and character, hope. -Romans 5

2010-08-26T08:43:00.006-04:00

I have had and will continue to have a lack of blogging presence this week and the coming weeks.

I'm graduating from The Ohio State University on Sunday!!

Approving our counter top slab before it's cut.
And so it is done!

Our beautiful granite counter top (above) is being delivered and installed today!! I'm visiting my good friend in D.C. next week!!

I will share photos of commencement, my grad party, the new kitchen, and our trip to D.C. soon!

Until then...keep checking Abby's blog for updates on the Miss America Outstanding Teen pageant and how our own MOOT, Cecili Weber is doing!

2010-08-24T08:01:00.002-04:00

I finished watching the Miss Universe pageant this morning, ha! I had to DVR it. Even though it was exciting, my little eyes couldn't stay open last night.

I got almost half of the Top 15 right!

My picks were:

Colombia
France
Guatemala
Jamaica
Mexico
Puerto Rico

And the judges picks to round it out were:

Albania
Australia
Belgium
Czech Republic (Not lying, I had her bubbled on my list the other day.)
Ireland (I'm sorry, I wasn't on board with everyone else when it came to her.)
Philippines
Russia
South Africa
Ukraine

The only ones I scratched my head about were Philippines and Russia. I was also surprised Puerto Rico didn't make it further.

Just as I wasn't on board with everyone loving Ireland, I absolutely LOVED Jamaica! Abby B. suggests to current contestants to not copy her styling when competing. I agree with Abby, in that her dress was really too short and even though the neck line was flattering (as well as the color), she's such a gorgeous woman, she could've done much better.

I'm happy with the woman they chose as Miss Universe 2010, Miss Mexico. Ha ha...I love this stuff!(Photos from Yahoo)
Becky...I couldn't find a picture of it, but Mexico's hands were on top! Smile.

Blessings to you all.

2010-08-22T19:15:00.004-04:00

No kitchen renovation for us today. Steve & I spent hours laying our ceramic tile floor yesterday and we're waiting on it to dry. Since we can't currently walk in the kitchen, we're enjoying this time to relax! Steve really needs this because he took time off work last week to get a good start on everything. That was really his job, but with 10+ hour days. Here are just a couple pics of our progress:

Before
During

From construction to pageantry...

There have been online interviews added of the Miss Universe contestants as well as more photos. I guess I should've spent more time on picking my "Top 15" because there are some changes. Again, these are based solely on online interviews and photos posted on the Miss Universe website:

~Colombia
~Egypt (But why doesn't she get a video?)
~Finland
~France
~Guatemala
~Haiti (I'm really feeling her...)
~Indonesia
~Jamaica
~Japan
~Korea
~Mexico
~Netherlands (What is with her hair during prelims?)
~Puerto Rico
~Spain (But "holy hair" in her video!)
~Venezuela (I love that she has shoulder length hair. If she makes the Top 15/10, I hope she wears it down.)

I had Ghana but she's off my list now after her video. Switzerland is also out. I also changed my mind on Turkey, her video was a bust for me. Guatemala's video was so-so but I still think she's beautiful and I'm a little bias since my grandmother is from there.

This dress looks familiar...are Albania and Ireland wearing the same dress?

Blessings 'til next time!

2010-08-12T21:53:00.002-04:00

**How could I have forgotten to give a shout out to my Miss Virgin Islands?**

Congrats & good luck to Janeisha John, 2010 Miss Universe contestant!

It's time for a fun post!

I feel like I haven't been in "pageant mode" for a while and with Miss Universe (and Miss America's Outstanding Teen) right around the corner, I thought to check and see how our Miss USA is sizing up to the other contestants. Abby B is always so helpful in keeping me up-to-speed on things in "Pageantland!"

I decided to pick a Top Ten for Miss Universe based on photos alone, their "headshot" and in evening gown but it doesn't give me much to go by. Either way, if you're interested, here's my list:

I love Colombia
Guatemala is next on my list (Which is awesome because I have Guatemalan heritage!)
Egypt
Finland
Japan
Puerto Rico
Spain

Bubblers (which actually brings it to 11 and not 10) to finish out my list are:

Haiti
Netherlands
Ghana
Australia

There are a few more I like but I can't decide if I want to add them to my list:

France
Indonesia (I like her headshot but it looks like she dyed a potato sack hot pink.)
Korea
Sweden and Switzerland are tied
Turkey

We can't forget my "honorable mentions" who are:

Albania, her dress is my favorite
Brazil reminds me of Sandra Bullock
Germany reminds me of Ashley Tisdale
I have no comment on Ireland's attire
Georgia has a Lady Gaga vibe in that dress (Yikes!)

Here is Alabania's dress, which if I were still competing, I would think about wearing something like this:
Does Miss Singapore remind you of 2nd runner-up at Miss Ohio 2010, Marisa Buccheit or what?! The dark and curly hair with the hot pink cut out dress!

(Pictures from Miss Universe website.)

2010-08-09T13:50:00.000-04:00

Camp Sharp & Wicked pics:Two more weeks of class left! Ahh! My heart skips a beat when I think about it. Week 2 of kitchen renovation began this morning! Whew! I have a mini photo shoot this upcoming weekend AND I get to see my Miss Kentucky! Will write more when I get a chance.

Love & Blessings.

2010-08-04T22:52:00.001-04:00

I'm stealing this idea from a friend, Emily. Here's her blog.

After reading her entry about the contents of a woman's purse, it has me intrigued as to what kind of junk is in mine. Like I have the time to go through it all! Ha, I don't care...I'm interested.

1 purse holder from Miss America 2008
4 different kinds of "lip stuff"
Bobby pins anyone?
Lots of biz cards ranging from CrystalJoFoto to Miss Ohio '10 to my eye doc
1 pack of tissues & a handkerchief
Ladybug wallet
Coupon "clutch"
Check book
1 shout wipe & 1 tide-to-go
Gum
VS pure seduction spray (the name makes me laugh)
Hand sanitizer
1 pencil
Covergirl powder
Ibuprofen
Deodorant
Eye drops
Brush

Am I missing anything?

Of course, I should be studying but instead blogging. This always happens. I'm looking forward to seeing Wicked tonight at the Ohio Theater! I'm traveling to Lima tomorrow after work to interview my friend, Kirsten Haglund, for my final/feature project before I graduate and she just happens to be in town to host the Miss WCO/Lima Square Fair/Crystal Lakes pageant.

We started demoing our kitchen on Monday night! We drove to Detroit on Saturday to pick up our new kitchen cabinets. I have no kitchen right now, but I'm ok with that! We've wanted to do this for a year now and I can't believe the time has finally come!

I should have more time next week to write, share photos from Camp Sharp, from Wicked, maybe some from Miss WCO/LSF/CL, and some of our new kitchen!

2010-08-03T15:56:00.002-04:00

The Missy's go to...

Abby's all ready announced a few of her Missy Award winners and I'm not surprised by any of them. What a cute idea, Abby!

The latest "winner" is Kristy Moneysmith who is the reigning Miss Maumee Valley and the one who you voted for to cross over and compete at Miss Ohio USA.

Our new Miss Ohio, Becky Minger, has won two Missy's: Best Headshot and Best Evening Gown!

Here's Abby's blog with all the details!

2010-07-26T20:34:00.002-04:00

My apologies. It's been 10 days since I last blogged. Sorry about that.

A lot has been going on in my life lately, including shooting my last wedding, presenting a marketing campaign to a learning center here on campus, finishing up two of my three classes for the summer, hanging out and swimming with my baby sister (because I won't get the chance again this summer), finalizing details for my graduation party, holding the first annual Camp Sharp for Girls, and starting my new job!

As you can see, my blog has a new look. The previous gray one with branches disappeared on me. How do you like this one? I've uploaded a new "portfolio" picture that was taken by Bryce Bishop! Bryce has been a part of the Miss Ohio family forever and he's taken an interest in photography. He hung around in Columbus one day and we spent some time in the Arena District snapping pictures. It was a lot of fun. Click HERE if you'd like to see some of those.

I also created a small Facebook album of some of the shots I took at weddings this summer, click HERE if you'd like to look at those.

AND...I also created a new blog strictly for my News Media Writing and Editing course. If you read it, you may have no clue what's going on but for kicks and giggles here it is: http://osuberta2010.blogspot.com.

AND there's more...I did it. I tried Twitter and I linked it up to Facebook, so it's great. I was dreading having to post things twice but now I don't have to. Ahh the wonderful world of the internet. :) Follow me at http://twitter.com/missohio07!

As soon as I get some photos from Camp Sharp I will share them here. We had such a great day. It was SO hot! I think it was 95 degrees this past Saturday...and the entire time I was praying for no rain. Stephanie (the "Sharp" of Camp Sharp) and I are meeting this weekend to go over details from the camp and brainstorm for NEXT YEAR all ready, while everything is still fresh in our minds.

I feel like there's something I'm forgetting to write. I'm anxious to see Abby Bollenbacher's Missy Awards outcome! ...Blessings for your week.

2010-07-16T07:34:00.000-04:00

I'm shooting my last wedding for the summer tomorrow. I do have one that is a ways away, in October. I've had a lot of fun going to all of these weddings and checking out what the brides dress looks like, the colors they chose, the little details and ideas and getting to capture some moments. I think I'll miss it a bit. Here are a few of my takes from a recent wedding we shot, I like to call this the "Kelly Green" wedding, because the bride's name is Kelly and she chose that color for her day!

My time will be booked up starting my new job at Ohio State University in less than two weeks and finishing up my LAST class of my undergraduate college education...news/media writing and editing! Less than 35 days left of classes! I'm finalizing plans for my "big" graduation party!

Steve celebrated his birthday last week. I took him to a Columbus Clipper's game! Check out the photo... :)~Peace & Love & Blessings~

2010-07-10T09:36:00.009-04:00

This will be a rather quick post. I have to leave to shoot the Bloom/Crouch wedding with Crystal Jo Foto in an hour. Speaking of shooting weddings...here are some more of my shots from the Vestal wedding! :)

I am also doing a trial run of Twitter! I've told myself time & time again there's no point in it. In my opinion, you can do the same things plus more on Facebook. But nonetheless, I'm giving it a shot: www.twitter.com/missohio07/

Camp Sharp held a car wash fundraiser a couple of weeks ago & it was a huge success! We are holding our first annual camp for girls on July 24 in Westerville. Miss Ohio 2010, Becky Minger, will be making a quick appearance and Rob Paugh, youth pastor at GCCN, will be our event speaker.Check out Abby Bollenbacher's blog. She's doing something cool called the Missy Awards! Blessings to you all, 'til next time!

2010-07-02T09:16:00.004-04:00

July already?! Time is flying! I'm done with week two of my five week summer classes and man are they intense! I've been beyond thankful this week...my grandmother had massive double bypass open heart surgery Wednesday morning! She is such a strong and healthy woman but any surgery is hard, let alone at the age of 73! She moves out of the ICU today. I can't wait to get back to the hospital tonight and maybe catch a little of Red, White & Boom with her - since her hospital is downtown. Yay!

CAMP SHARP is holding a car wash tomorrow morning as we continue to raise funds for our camp later this month! Click HERE for more info!

I also enjoyed taking photos of beautiful, little soon to be 2 year old - Abbie, last night! Steve and I hung out with Abbie and her parents at a local park last night and got some great shots! I didn't have time to edit any yet but I just LOVE this photo of her swinging!Everyone's got big festivities this weekend for the 4th! I hope everyone has a fun and safe Independence Day. Steve's birthday is next week. I've got something special planned for him, which I'll have to share with you after the fact but I'm looking forward to it.

I'll leave you with a few more wedding photos I took for Crystal Jo Foto!

Williams Wedding

2010-06-27T08:55:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is Monday, ugh. Fingers crossed that next week is better than this past week. I know we're supposed to have an occasional bad day but I haven't had a day like the past ten days, in a LONG time. That's ok though, I've held onto Jesus & everything is working itself out.

I will spare you all with the entire story but give you a quick synopsis: Summer classes started this week but I missed my first class on the first day because I did something I've never done before...locked my keys in my car! Got my mind off things & met Miss Ohio 2010, Becky Minger, at Bob Evans while she, her mother & sister were in town for a media tour. Found out all the classes I was enrolled in are full term & I start my job at the end of July. If you could put yourself in my place, I thought I was either going to A) not graduate or B) have to give up my job! This is what was going through my mind. Yes...I had a meltdown!

As I wrote above, everything is falling into place. I'm getting the good & the bad, but I know the Lord will never leave me day or night. {Deuteronomy 31:8}

With all of that said...something that makes me smile lately, is photography. As I've mentioned in earlier posts, I've been shooting weddings since the beginning of the summer. I've done six weddings, I have my seventh today. Crystal Jo has updated her blog with some photos from the weddings we've shot together & I want to share some of the pics I TOOK with you!

The Colburn Wedding

The Jefferis Wedding

The Potokar Wedding

2010-06-18T15:14:00.001-04:00

My, my, my!!! What a week it has been! It's Friday, the last night of prelim competition for Miss Ohio & the day before Miss Ohio 2010 will be crowned! Who will it be?! I am as anxious as ever, more so than last year.

Last year it was surreal to sit in the audience, but this year I've gotten to know the contestants a little and have had the honor to be a small part of the show! These young women are truly outstanding and all their hard work is paying off this week!

A congrats goes to Becky Minger who won a swimsuit prelim Wednesday night, Nanciann Strosnider who took home a talent prelim award Wednesday night AND a swimsuit prelim last night, as well as my Miss Maple City sister who was awarded a talent prelim last night, Marisa Bucheit! My little host sister, Ashley Warholic, will compete in talent tonight & I would love to travel back up to Mansfield to watch her!

I'm 50/50 right now as I am SO tired! I can't believe I would "go" 24/7 back when I was Miss Ohio. I still wonder how I did it & how all these ladies are doing it now. I came back to Columbus yesterday because I had to work a few hours...

...It was actually the LAST day at my part time job with Fisher Grad Programs! Because, drum roll please...I got a job!!! Wednesday was a blessed day for me. I awoke in Mansfield in my second home, The Warholics, found out my sister-in-law {finally} got engaged AND I got a job offer from THE Ohio State University! Which I accepted! Wohoo!!!

Not only will I be a graduate of OSU very soon, but I will also be a staff member with Fisher College of Business! Maybe I'll even go back to school and get my Master's! But I'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

So what to do?! Go to Mansfield or relax at home one more night? I'm organizing a cocktail hour for Former Miss Ohio's tomorrow and co-hosting with some Miss Ohio Sister's. Whew! Abby Bollenbacher is back in Mansfield and it would be GREAT to catch up with her! Decisions, decisions!

Make sure to continue watching the shows online: www.missohio.org. Also keep checking the MOSP Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/missohio.

I start summer classes on Monday but hope to blog again soon! Break a leg Miss Ohio contestants! ~Blessings to you & yours~

2010-06-11T18:01:00.002-04:00

Way to go baby sister! Looks like someone is following in my footsteps! I found out Faye was in the "pageant" two days before she was to compete. I took my last final that afternoon, had enough time to run home & grab a bite to eat then drive 20 minutes to Commercial Point & snap a few shots of her becoming the 2010 Junior Miss Commercial Point!The competition consisted of an audience introduction, Q & A, then a private 5 minute "interview" with judges. She was up against 8 other girls, ages 12 to 14! I think she had a good time & that outcome helped a bit. There was also a "Princess" program in conjunction with the Jr. Miss. Tonight they will hold the Miss competition and Faye gets to be in the Homecoming parade tomorrow!

I wish there had been a little more to the pageant, like talent. However, it was free to the contestants & a great experience for those who participate and/or win. Faye is even interested in the Miss Ohio Outstanding Teen program next year. I'm SO excited!Other than going to cheer on my baby sister I've been up to a lot, hence my blogging absence. I have my fifth wedding to shoot tomorrow. I've done multiple portrait & family sessions, even been asked to work on a catalog project this summer. One of my best friends (Kasey Wilson-Johansen) got hitched last weekend. My brother-in-law from Cali just left for Montreal yesterday. I am finished with finals! And Miss Ohio Week 2010 has begun!

I'm off to a rehearsal in Mansfield on Sunday & the madness will ensue on Wednesday! I'm excited for the coming days but will have little time to blog. Make sure to keep an eye on Abby Bollenbacher's blog for all things Miss Ohio related!

2010-06-10T22:14:00.002-04:00

I want to add this quickly so it's going to be a short blog! I will write more tomorrow.

Congratulations baby sister...2010 Junior Miss Commercial Point!!! I'm so proud of her!

2010-05-27T22:44:00.001-04:00

Whew! I needed a break...I've been studying for my last strategic media planning exam.

Well...the yard is finished! We've worked hard & tirelessly on our front yard & side yard over the past two weeks or so. It has felt like a much longer process due to imagining, drawing, saving (dough), window shopping, ripping, shoveling, & so on & so on...resulting in finishing! Here are before & after photos!

The beds have a nice coat of mulch, unlike the photo above where the ugly dirt is exposed. We also mixed in a few brushed nickel solar garden lights...they're pretty cool. The pictures aren't really doing our yard justice, but it gives you an idea. I can't believe I'm excited about this stuff! It's one of the joys of being a homeowner, I guess. I think it's great that we do get giddy about the little things! Next up...kitchen renovation! I hope.

I shot my first wedding last weekend & I'm booked for weddings Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Another busy, busy weekend is ahead! I will share pictures as soon as I'm allowed. Crystal Jo typically doesn't want photos "debuted" until she sends the couple their gallery information, which is usually between 2 to 4 weeks.

I have one week of regular classes left before finals, I'll be done with my internship in about a week & a half, my brother-in-law & his wife are coming in town from California next week & one of my best friends is getting married next weekend!!! Have a blessed week everyone!

2010-05-16T21:21:00.004-04:00

Wow! Another busy, eventful, memorable weekend! I had the privilege of singing at the Survivor Ceremony during the Columbus Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure! What an honor and what an experience. I met my former "co-worker" and breast cancer survivor of four years, on Saturday where she told me to take a seat right next to Chris Spielman. Mr. Spielman is as amazing and kindhearted as his wife, Stefanie Spielman. He spoke moments before I was to take the stage and it was very difficult to hold back my tears, his words were so touching. Check out this eNewsletter about the event. {Race eNewsletter} There were more than 50,000 in attendance that day and over 20,000 during the ceremony!

The first picture is of Chris Speilman & the second is of me, sorry they're so far away. Blame it on Steve. :-) The video above is of Hamilton Township High School doing their "flash mob" at the Survivor Ceremony! The clip is really short but it was fun...we danced to I Got A Feelin'! I'm right behind the lady who is getting down, dressed all in pink and a visor. Check out the Columbus Dispatch website for some great pictures of the event. If I find more good photos, I'll post them.

Aside from that big event of the weekend, we ripped out our entire garden (or jungle) on the side and front of our house! I am so sore right now! We tried to keep up with everything last year but the little old lady who lived in this house before us really liked flowers, all different kinds of ornamental grass and rose bushes! It was just a LOT to maintain so we've created a blank canvas for ourselves and it's going to look GOOD! We already purchased the stone edgers from North Shore Stone in Columbus. We have the stones placed on the side of the house but I don't have a photo of it yet. I think at this point it will be best if I show you some pics when it's done and looks a little prettier!

I've got a BUSY week and weekend. I apologize in advance if you don't hear from me. I'm participating and singing in the memorial service for Larry Wallington, former Ohio State employee who was shot and killed a couple of months ago. I'm attending the BBB Torch Awards Ceremony in Columbus. I have a job interview and my first wedding shoot this weekend. Wish me luck. Many blessings to you all!

2010-05-11T15:50:00.006-04:00

If you're looking for a good laugh today, check out this video:
Ellen Scare Montage

2010-05-01T21:13:00.003-04:00

I had another long weekend. A good weekend, but a long one. Steve & I celebrated our One Year Anniversary at Put-in-Bay & Kelley's Island up on Lake Erie! It was an eventful & memorable weekend. We drove up on Friday, tried to miss rush hour traffic but we had to drop Carmen off at my mom's. Rush hour traffic it was. As we sat on 23 North, our stomachs started to growl so we opted for Panera. Yum. As we are cleaning up our table my phone rings & it's the resort we're staying at for the weekend. The lady on the line asks if we are aware that the last ferry leaves at 8PM. I say "yes" because I did know but it was an oversight on my part, just figuring that we would make it. Mind you, it's 7PM when she calls and Marblehead is an hour & a half away from the Panera we're currently at. Yipee! Needless to say, we missed the ferry! Ahh memories. We stayed in Catawba for the night & enjoyed some interesting night life at MonAmi. We spent the day at Put-in-Bay on a golf cart (Fun!) & made sure to head out early, as not to miss another ferry! Once we got to Kelley's Island we checked in & took a leisurely tour of the island from inside our car. It started to rain but that didn't stop us from checking out the glacial grooves. We were not expecting what we saw! The glacial grooves were a really neat sight to see! Click HERE if you'd like to see some photos from our trip.

This weekend myself and the "founder" of Camp Sharp for Girls, my good friend Stephanie, & I are continuing our training on the ropes courses so we can be certified & help the girls out in July! Steph was certified on the initiatives courses the other weekend, while I was at the 2010 Miss Ohio contestant forum. It's going to be another LONG weekend but one that we will hopefully see huge benefits from this summer, when we see great big smiles on all the girls faces!

I continue to practice my mad photographer skills. Another lesson is planned for tomorrow. My brother-in-law got engaged over the weekend!!! He & my future sister-in-law are up for the challenge of being my models once again! Miss Ohio rehearsals start next weekend, for me at least. The weekend after that calls for some singing at the final ceremony for the Columbus Race for the Cure! I've got a mid-quarter report for my internship due next week as well as two (maybe three) other assignments. Graduation is in 82 days!!

~Love & Blessings~

2010-04-20T20:48:00.010-04:00

Wow, what a weekend! As I sit writing this, just finished my brat for dinner (yum) & watching Steve play with Carmen, I'm about to finish up laundry from Friday & start two assignments for my Comm classes this week.

I was excited to go "camping" this weekend at the 2010 Miss Ohio forum. Amber Bussa (Miss North Central), Tera Coleman (Miss Heart of Ohio) & Cayla Hellwarth (Miss Lake Festival) rode with me to St. Louisville. Luckily everything fit in my trunk. We arrived VERY early Saturday morning & dropped our things off at our cabins. I stayed in the Cow Palace! Oh yeah!

Tim O'Guinn, Director of Scholarships, Finance & Accounting for MOSP, asked myself as well as other former Miss Ohio's to be a part of this years forum to provide more insight to the contestants & so contestants could have "access" to us. Unfortunately, I was the only former who was able to attend. If any of my Miss Ohio sisters are reading this, if they ask you again next year...say yes! I had such a good time, I'm exhausted but thoroughly enjoyed my time there with everyone & the Miss Ohio ladies!

Saturday morning started with meetings consisting of what items to bring/not to bring with you during Miss Ohio Week, chaperone/host home information, & of course production info. They didn't make anyone wait too long & began the contestant lottery right before lunch!

Buckeye Flight
(Tuesday Morning - Interview, Wednesday - Talent, Thursday - Swimsuit, Friday - Evening Gown & On-stage Question)

1. Elizabeth Wong
2. Sarah Hider
3. Heather Waterman
4. Alyssa Waldman
5. Amber Bussa
6. Meggie Wittman
7. Kristy Moneysmith
8. Nanciann Strosnider

Cardinal Flight
(Tuesday Evening - Interview, Wednesday - Evening Gown & On-stage Question, Thursday - Talent, Friday - Swimsuit)

9. Anna Reis
10. Rebekah Zoz
11. Stephanie Beltz
12. Shannon O'Neil
13. Courtney Monk
14. Cayla Hellwarth
15. Marisa Bucheit
16. Katie Bowen
17. Jacquelyn Nichols

Carnation Flight
(Wednesday Morning - Interview, Wednesday - Swimsuit, Thursday - Evening Gown & On-stage Question, Friday - Talent)

18. Becky Minger
19. Katie Camp
20. Heather Wells
21. Heidi Negron
22. Ellen Bryan
23. Tera Coleman
24. Ashley Warholic
25. Whitney Fricke
26. Devon Stansbury

Click HERE for some photos from this weekend!

After contestants picked their placement, it was lunch time! Everyone could eat their cares away! It is funny how intense picking a contestant number is, everyone likes to think there's a strategy. In the long run, don't be superstitious. If God wants you for the job, then you'll get it. He's not looking at what night you did evening gown or if you picked #5 when you "should have" picked #17...neither are the judges. :-)

I will have the honor of emceeing one night of preliminaries this year, along side Miss Ohio 2009, Erica Gelhaus! I just finalized some things with John Kunkel (Stage Director of the Miss Ohio show) today. I will emcee on Wednesday with a possible "special" appearance on Thursday. We're unsure of who or how Saturday's final night will be emceed. There may be a "surprise" celebrity host or I will be emceeing again along with Amanda Beagle (Miss Ohio 2004) & Melanie Murphy-Miller (Miss Ohio 2006)!

Wednesday's prelim show will have a Country flare! Yay! I will be jealous of who ever gets to host Thursday's show...it's "Glee" night/Spirit themed! "Fame" is Friday nights theme. Wednesday we'll hear songs from the Dixie Chicks & Johnny Cash, however, don't be surprised if you hear a more "popular" song in the mix. Thursday will bring Ray Charles, Tony Bennett & possibly some Grease to the audience. And Friday, you can't go without some Dirty Dancing, Patrick Swayze, of course Fame & possibly 'On My Own'; also from the original show.

I am beyond thrilled. There are A LOT of things in the mix right now. I'm eager to start rehearsals next month. That calendar of mine just keeps filling up! Will it ever stop? Steve & I celebrate our ONE YEAR anniversary this weekend! Next weekend I am training on one of the ropes courses for Camp Sharp, so I can help the girls who attend our camp in July. The following weekend I will be a part of Columbus' Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure - Survivor Ceremony & Final Awards Celebration! I will share more of that later! Tata for now! Have BLESSED week...y'all!

2010-04-16T09:14:00.000-04:00

I am a "real" photographer...almost!!! I had my first lesson with Crystal Jo last night and boy was it interesting, hard work, and a tad overwhelming but I know I'm going to love it. I learned a lot in just one evening. Plus we had a session with 3 week old little Baby Trevor! Here are some of my shots from my first night as a "real" photographer...Of course I had to get my little puppy, Carmen, in there! Off to the Ohio 4H Camp this weekend for the 2010 Miss Ohio contestant forum. Another photographer practice session next week! ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY next weekend! Ropes & initiatives training courses for Camp Sharp the following weekend & then I've got something so awesome two weekends after that but it deserves its own post! Have a fabulously blessed weekend...see ya'll real soon!

~Love & Blessings~

2010-04-09T15:14:00.001-04:00

Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!

I've had a slacker attack! Not really, I have just been so terribly, insanely, stupidly busy and it has left me no time for this dear old blog! I joined reality again yesterday after battling some sinus gunk. I've never had allergies before in my life & my doctor said I'm developing one. Boo! Which is another reason why I haven't written.

Honestly, I'm sitting in my Strategic Media Planning class right now...don't tell Dr. Sohn! Before this afternoon class I worked a few hours at my internship with SBC Advertising then ran home to let our little puppy out...When I get home I've got some tidying up to do before my photographer friend comes over! I have been assisting Crystal Jo (of CrystalJoFoto) with shoots over the passing months, being a creative part of her team. We really have a lot of fun together. She's going to teach me how to shoot! I might be her traveling "2nd photographer" this summer for a few weddings! She takes beautiful photos and I am ecstatic at the thought of working with her more.

Check out this photo of my delicious no-bake key lime cupcake I made for Easter. This was taken with my Sony CyberShot! Smile. My "no" baking skills aren't too bad, and I'll say the same for my picture taking...maybe.Spring quarter has started and I'm only 106 days away from graduation! That still blows my mind. Again, something I put my mind to, persevered, and will finally accomplish so soon! Along with 16 credit hours of spring quarter classes I'm still working two part-time jobs and filling an internship with SBC Advertising! I don't think I've shared much about my internship with you.

My internship with SBC's New Business Development & Marketing began in January. The directors in my department are responsible for not only seeking out new business opportunities but holding onto those client relationships. The "marketing" aspect of this department is in-house. We take care of SBC's website, SBC's social media, and any mass mailing that SBC sends out...that's us. Some of SBC's clients include: Elmer's, Subway, Big Lots, Bob Evans, and Bed, Bath & Beyond! Just to name a few!

Steve & I are off to Cleveland tomorrow for our first Cavaliers game! I can't begin to tell you how stoked we are...we're kind of LeBron geeks! We're hoping to stop at my host family's home in Mansfield for a visit on our way. It will be a good day!

I'm honored to have been asked to be a part of the 2010 Miss Ohio contestant forum and retreat next weekend. The MOSP board plans to have former Miss Ohio's in attendance, as well as Erica, so current contestants can have "access" to us. I love being outdoors and I think last years contestants had a blast, I'm hoping to do the same! I'm sure there will be loads of photos going around and blogs going crazy after forum, be sure to check back because I'll add to the mix!

Until then...have a blessed week!

2010-03-09T18:29:00.000-05:00

It's been a while!

Not too much happening around here. Well, a lot is happening but nothing crazy exciting except I want to ask my readers to join something on Facebook! If you are not "on" Facebook, get with the program! Just kidding! Social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, etc.) is really growing today and Miss Ohio is growing with it!

Please click HERE to join the MOSP group and click HERE to become a fan of MOSP! Don't worry, you won't be added on any mailing lists, you are just supporting this great organization! By becoming a fan or joining the group, MOSP can keep you updated on future events, happenings and other miscellaneous exciting items!

Thanks & have a blessed week!

Taking the opportunity to show off our little girl, ha! She's got her own paparazzi!

2010-02-20T13:27:00.003-05:00

Some more exciting news! This is something I've wanted to share for a while...

I’m excited about a new adventure God has placed in my life! My good friend, Stephanie Sharp, & I have organized a camp for young girls. Our focus is for underprivileged girls with absent or abusive fathers. We’ve raised over 60% of our funding goal for this year already! We hope to apply for 501(c)3 status & welcome ongoing donations. If you are interested in volunteering at our camp or know anyone who may be interested in coming, please contact me. Check out our website for more info!

Camp Sharp for Girls:

{www.campsharp.webs.com}

2010-02-13T20:14:00.001-05:00

We took the plunge! Our little family is growing with the newest addition...Carmen! She is all ours, a black labrador retriever mix we adopted from the local humane society! Our cousin works for Capital Area Humane Society and has been keeping an eye out on dogs for us since just after Christmas. You never really know what you're going to get when you rescue a pup, but I think God hit it right on the money in this case.

We found out about the pup on Monday but didn't get the opportunity to meet her until Thursday, she had surgery earlier this week, too. When we finally made the trip to get acquainted we found out she already had an adoption hold on her. To play it safe, we placed a hold on her as well...so we were second in line. We prayed on her all week, whether or not she would be the dog for us and we knew if it was meant to be, then it would be.

When the phone rang on Friday I thought the news would be that she had been adopted. I didn't want to have any great expectations BUT it was great news! The family that was in the #1 spot for her hold ended up adopting a different dog! After sleeping on it & thinking about her nonstop we decided to do it! She is ours! I still can't believe it!

Her name is Carmen...yes, for Carmen Ohio, the song for Ohio State University. We wanted to name her something Ohio State related or something that had ties with me & Steve. Our other choices were: Rose (for the Rose Bowl), Hayes (for Woody Hayes), Jessie (for Jessie Owens), G.G./Gigi (for Gordon Gee) and Mattie (for Dave Matthews Band). Obviously the last one isn't based after OSU. :)

Carmen just seemed to work as we were driving home with her the other night. We've already made a couple of trips to Petsmart to make sure our little girl has everything she needs. She truly is a great little puppy, a LOT of work but great! I don't want to jinx it but she didn't whine or cry at all last night! Thank you Jesus! Ha!

So if we didn't already have enough on our plates & consuming our time...we got a daughter! Ha ha, I'm making myself giggle. The next 2 to 4 weeks will probably be really busy as we house train her, but she's already making progress. What an awesome Valentine's Day gift to receive from one another, right?!

Introducing Carmen! Carmen's Photos

2010-02-05T15:56:00.002-05:00

Check this out: Zack Arias (Click "04 Feb")

What a week it HAS been! Monday = Spanish project and composition. Tuesday = mid-term intern report. Wednesday = first research methods exam. Thursday = shoot with local photographers and Zack Arias (He's a big deal in the photographer world, I guess!). Smile. Friday = CareerFest 2010 representative for Fisher + snow! I'm not quite back to normal from the trip to Miss America in Vegas yet either. But it's all okay because I'm sitting at home with my hubby wrapped up in the cozy chocolate brown cashmere blankey my grandma got us for our wedding last year watching "9" and eating brownie bites. Ahh.

IF I get a chance and IF I feel like it...I might share more of my thoughts on the Miss America pageant. Wink. Have a blessed weekend!

2010-02-01T11:42:00.021-05:00

Back to life, back to reality! Talk about "Ventures in Vegas!" I am so exhausted but that means I had a good time! Another whirlwind weekend but a great one! I haven't been back in Ohio quite 24 hours yet and I'm a little torn, wishing I were still in Las Vegas but very thankful to be home, too.

I landed in Vegas just before noon and headed to The Palazzo to meet my roommates for the weekend: my Miss Kentucky, Kaitlynne Postel, and Kearney Canter-Kok (whose mother is the VP for the Miss Kentucky program)! They flew in the night before and were able to meet up at visitation with their state contestant, Miss KY 2009, Mallory Ervin; who went on to be named 4th runner-up this past weekend!

K & K (that's what I'll call the girls in this blog) were starving, having not eaten all day and I, nothing since before my flight left Chicago. We took our starving selves down to Grand Lux at the Venetian and was it ever tasty! After my first official meal on my third trip back to Vegas, we headed to Planet Hollywood! Kait, Kear and I were greeted at the Heart Bar by Summer Wyatt (Miss WV '07), Christina Thompson (Miss WI '07) and our own Miss America '08 & Miss Michigan '07, Kirsten Haglund!

We were expecting more ladies but Katie Bailey's (Miss AR '07) flight was delayed and Alyssa George (Miss KS '07) ended up becoming ill. We just missed Amanda Joseph (Miss LA '07 - soon to be Mrs.!), as she stopped but had a prior engagement to get to. It was absolutely wonderful to sit and talk to these fabulous women and catch up on them and hear about what's going on in their lives. They are all doing so well and are as driven as ever...very inspiring!
After the Heart Bar it was off to do some shopping at the PH Miracle Mile Shops and grab a bite at Cabo Wabo! Marcia, Kait's aunt who happens to be a former Miss Kentucky from 1978, joined us! She was a blast!

Next on the agenda was dinner and dancing at TAO, one of the best nightclub's located in the Venetian. We were eachother's dates but were also accompanied by some of Kait's friends! Lincoln Brown, son of former Miss America Phyllis George and his friend, Amir Hemmat! At the end of the day, I had been awake for 23 hours! I am glad I was able to keep going, I didn't want to be the party-pooper!

After a few hours of sleep I headed back to Planet Hollywood to pick up my badge for visitation and my ticket to the show! I took some time in the afternoon to get ready for Miss America 2010 LIVE! Spectators had to be in their seats around 4:30 to prepare for the live telecast which was at 5pm in Vegas but 8pm back here! It went by SO fast!

Unfortunately, I was not sitting with the O.H.I.O. group but I told the lady sitting next to me in advance that I would be yelling out "I.O." after our Miss Ohio gave us the "O.H.!" She was ok with that. And I could see Kait & Kear from where I was sitting. Once Erica didn't get into the Top 15, I looked over at them and Kear had her arms up in the "O" and Kait had hers up in the "H!" So sweet!

I was sitting directly behind the New Mexico group, hoping maybe I could pop my head in between someone and be seen on T.V. Ha! I watched my DVR of Miss America last night and had no such luck of getting on T.V. again. Silly! Erica should be so proud of her accomplishment of competing at Miss America! She was on everyone's radar all week and has made Ohio extremely proud! I know she's going to need to relax and recuperate this week but I'm looking forward to seeing her back in action around the state for the rest of her reign!After the telecast and the crowning of Miss America 2010, Caressa Cameron, we made our way to the ballroom for visitation. Erica had such an enormous group of supporters with her last week! I was able to catch up with a lot of folks from back here in Ohio, but also stopped to say "hi" to some Kentucky, Michigan and New York folks! The Ohio crew made a semi-circle at the back of the room and started cheering "O.H.-I.O.!" as Erica headed for us to accept loads of hugs! Even though some were bummed, shocked, or what have you...Erica IS our Miss Ohio and because of that she is like our own Miss America! "Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) This was a Bible scripture I shared with her this week and deep down she understands that "it", whatever "it" may be, will only happen if it is in God's plan. I'm so happy for Erica to have experienced this moment in her life. She will only get stronger from here!

After catching up with everyone, congratulating Erica and giving her my love, we were off to the Miss America 2010 Judges and former Miss America's after party! I so wanted to meet Vivica Fox but she scooted out before we could catch her. Kaitlynne got a photo with Shawn Johnson and we all got a pic and were able to meet Rush Limbaugh! He was very hard at hearing, ha, but a nice man from what I could tell. Please no one give me a hard time, I don't know enough about him and his opinions...I just thought it was neat to have a photo with him. Plus, Kearney really likes him and wanted a pic!After the party we journeyed to the City Center, some call it Sinner City (Ha!), and hit a new spot...Haze! My Miss CA, Melissa Chaty, tagged along with us! It was crowded but a LOT of fun! Timbaland even showed up and performed! Oh my gosh, it was amazing. Some of you may not peg me for a Timbaland fan but, I am! Last year when I did choreography for Miss Maple City, the contestants walked to one of his songs in swimsuit!

We finally made it back to The Palazzo with very little time for K & K before they needed to head to the airport...their flight left at six in the morning! Oh, I felt really bad! My flight back home was wonderful because I was with some of my Ohioans! The Bishop Family: Jim, Bryce & Paige, Kay Hall, Linda & Jessica Eggan, & Sue Swinehart!

I am extremely grateful that I was able to travel back to Las Vegas for Miss America again this year. Thanks not only goes to the Big Guy but to my husband, too! I think next year he's coming with me, no matter what. I'll put him in my suitcase if I have to! Please enjoy more pictures at this link: Photos!

P.S. I hope to give a "review" with a synopsis and my thoughts on the competition soon! Stay tuned.

2010-01-22T19:04:00.002-05:00

Erica & the other 2010 Miss America hopefuls flip flap jacks for
IHOP and CMN!

Click HERE for the full story and LOTS of other photos & video!

2010-01-22T19:01:00.002-05:00

Wohoo! I can NOT believe it's time for Miss America 2010 already! Wow! I have been delegated to plan a get together for the Miss America Class of 2008 next week in Las Vegas! I am BeYoNd excited! Things have been moving at 100mph so I feel like I haven't had a chance to even really think about everything! I wish I were staying in Vegas more than two days, but I am extremely thankful with what God has blessed me with.

Plans with Miss Kentucky ('08), Kaitlynne Postel and Miss All American City, Becky Minger, are under way...for our ventures in Vegas! I like that..."Ventures in Vegas!" I'll have to remember that when I return. Last year for the MAO '08 reunion I was a part of a Glam It Up Fashion Show then we had a party at the Hawaiian Tropics club inside PH. Also last year, there were nearly 30 returning MAO girls! The numbers are dwindling which is bound to happen with everyone moving all over the country and marriages and some of my sisters are getting ready for babies! Miss Idaho, Sadie (Quigley) Simpson to name one! I will be joined by the following Misses: KY, WV, DE, AR, WA, NV, KS, LA and of course our Miss America!

Check out YouTube for a couple of videos from the contestants "arrival" to Planet Hollywood. In years past, they've held the event outdoors so passersby can stop to get a glimpse of the Miss America girls but due to the rain, they took it indoors. If I'm looking at the picture correctly, they are situated one floor above the casino, on the same level with the auditorium where Stomp plays. Ahh...memories!

Well I have a big assignment due Monday and my first exam in one of my comm classes next week. I also have to get together with my group for a small project that's due when I return from Vegas. My body is fighting off a bad cold. I still need to share all about my internship with you and I haven't even begun to think about packing or even what I'll wear in Vegas! It's still a big deal to me, ha! I probably won't update until I return from Vegas. So for now keep clicking on Abby's blog and continue to support our Miss Ohio, ERICA...Miss AmERICA!

Love & Blessings.

2010-01-18T09:12:00.002-05:00

Check THIS out!!!

And THIS too!!!

2010-01-18T08:12:00.002-05:00

Whew! Another week has passed & today I get an extra day "off" & that makes me very happy!

I have a couple of things to share today! Click HERE for a few photos from Erica's send off, most of which are already on my blog but there are other pics included in the album now, too! This past Wednesday, Martha Campbell (ED for the Miss Clayland program) coordinated a surprise get together for Erica while she was in Columbus at Ohio State's Woody Hayes Athletic Training Facility!

She mentioned this to me on Sunday & wondered if Steve & I would be interested in going & helping out! "Of course" I said, it's something we wouldn't miss! I offered to help & Martha took me up on it by asking me to bring shredded chicken sandwiches! Mind you, this is not something you can buy...it has to be homemade. My first attempt at homemade shredded chicken was...good! I say as I heave a sigh of relief.
Erica was truly surprised when she walked upstairs to the "party room" at the training center to see all of her "Columbus friends!" We spent a couple of hours just sharing in the moment & mingling with one another then Jimmy Cordle (#64 for OSU, center on the offensive line) took us on a tour of the facility! It was amazing! It should be...it cost close to $20 million to build! Steve & I really had a good time that night & I loved being able to spend more time with Erica before she's off to Las Vegas!

I was a part of our first meeting in 2010 for OPCE (Ohio Partners in Character Education) this week. We get together quarterly & January is always fun because we set our goals for the coming 12 months! I was able to help the last meeting by assisting in scheduling the committee's trip to Orrville where they are a Community of Character! Our next task is to create different "ice breaker" activities for school principals & teachers! The mission is to get educators thinking about their own character which will in turn help them display good character traits to their students! There are a lot of exciting things in store for OPCE this year & I'll keep you posted.

Erica leaves for Vegas on Thursday so say a little prayer for her! And I leave in less than two weeks! As always, check Abby's blog because she is amazing at keeping everyone updated & check this out: 2010 Miss America Pageant Events

Blessings for your week!

2010-01-11T22:12:00.003-05:00

Welcome to 2010! Eleven days in & we're already going strong! Steve & I said bye to our first very own real Christmas tree last night. Hopefully you saw a photo of it in a previous blog of mine, if not, your loss! Kidding!

I hope this new year is treating all of my readers well so far! Year after year, Steve & I go to dinner & typically end up at 12:15am, ready to pass out. And...year after year, we say we should do something for new years eve the next year. We followed through this time & had a small get together at our house! We watched "Funniest Videos" & "Whose Line is it Anyway" & we also played charades! It was a lot of fun but next year, I think I'd like to get dressed up & ring in 2011 'Quantum of Solace' style...or something!

I've been MIA for a couple of weeks and the same thing is going to happen in the weeks coming up.

Here's a "little" synopsis of why you won't be hearing from me too much: I'm in my second week of Winter Quarter. Steve & I got season tickets to the OSU men's basketball games. I'm currently working three jobs. I started my internship with SBC Advertising last week. I have an Ohio Partners in Character Ed meeting this week. I attended Miss Ohio's send off yesterday. Steve is on an indoor soccer league. Faye is on the 7th grade girls bball team...and I'm going to Vegas!!!!!

Whew! Just thinking about everything kind of makes me cringe...but deep down inside, I do love it!

That's right! I'm going back to Las Vegas to take part in the Miss America 2010 extravaganza and to support our own Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus!!! I had a good time at Erica's send off celebration in St. Henry yesterday. There were close to 200 family, friends & supporters at Romer's Catering for the celebration! We were able to mingle for a while before the show started. Our hostess for the show (Miss Ohio '08), Karissa Martin, was not able to journey up due to weather. Mr. Mark Schnitkey stepped in for her. Others that took the stage to fill in were myself & to entertain was the rest of Erica's Top 5: Becky Minger, Nanciann Strosnider, Jenna Wilson & Ellen Bryan.

Erica modeled a couple of visitation dresses, an evening gown, interview outfit, talent gown & a couple of miscellaneous arrival/luncheon outfits...that she'll wear in Vegas! It's not uncommon, but Erica looked spectacular yesterday! She just shined! I am beyond thrilled to go back to Vegas for my third year...this time to cheer on "my" first runner-up! It's crazy how time flies and what can happen in only 2 years! I am SO excited for Erica!

Here are some photos from Miss Ohio's send-off: I would like to share more about my time in St. Henry with you, how this quarter is going so far, about my internship, my trip to Vegas & about some other exciting things happening in my life...but like I said, time is flying by! I promise I'll write more...soon! Please check back!

Love & Blessings!

P.S. Check out Abby's blog! She has a great article regarding Erica & her interview prep on it!

2009-12-29T20:59:00.004-05:00

I was not kidding when I said things have been really crazy busy! Please allow me to catch you up on the last month of my life.

Winter quarter is almost upon...me, but it seems as though Autumn quarter just ended. I completed my finals with great haste and am glad to put it behind me. The upcoming quarter is not going to be a cake-walk however. With that said, you may not be hearing from me much.

In the midst of finishing up classes I was able to go back to an organization that I love so dearly and have been helping the past five years...Salvation Army, Christmas Cheer Program. I squeezed in a few hours at a local Columbus church where I volunteered and got families registered for their Christmas Cheer gifts! I typically do registration plus help out at check-in on the days families go to the Ohio State fairgrounds to pick up their food and toys, but the Salvation Army already had all the volunteers they needed. Even though it was something I was thoroughly looking forward to, it was a blessing to them. Next year I'm hoping Steve can come with me, I'll just have to remember to sign up earlier!

After some of the chaos settled, Steve & I did attend our first Ohio State men's basketball game! 'Tis the season for basketball because that game was followed up with my sisters first 7th grade girls basketball game! The Vikings didn't win but it was a good game, Faye even scored a basket...in the opposing teams hoop, but still! It was TOO cute, she was nervous but it hasn't happened since! Don't laugh! ;o)

I then had the pleasure of traveling up to Mansfield to be a part of the 2009/2010 Miss Mansfield competition! I was honored to co-emcee the pageant with outgoing Miss Mansfield, Nanciann Strosnider. Those days make for long ones but they're totally worth it. I'm sure everyone involved would agree with me. I'm a bit late on this & I'm sure you've seen them all, but here are a few photos:Before I knew it Christmas was here (and now it's gone, sad face)! We got our first very own "real live" tree! For those of you who are Jessica Nelson (Ha!) and attended Miss Mansfield, you know the inside joke about "real live!" Scroll below to see our tree!

The past two weeks have been filled with wonderful Christmas festivities! We had many, many family gatherings including the "Evawillialbermow", "Smikellalber", "Calbert" & "Willialber" get together's! Along with all the gatherings and company Christmas parties, we also made it to my sisters Christmas Choir Concert, where she had a solo! She sang a Taylor Swift song called "Christmas Must be Something More." I took a video of it & hope to put it on the blog soon...it was good!

I've got some exciting things coming up...other than only being six classes away from graduation! I got a "new job" plus was offered an internship with the same company. One of my best friends and I have started something new & very inspiring! I hope to share a new website & info about this with you soon!

For now...HAPPY NEW YEAR! I can't believe 2010 is right around the corner! A new year brings many great and new opportunities. "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope..."
{1 Peter 1:3}

2009-12-28T20:52:00.004-05:00

Here's a slide show I found of Erica: Bowling with Miss Ohio! There's a really good photo of The Gelhaus family in the mix, too!

2009-12-23T17:51:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I apologize for my lack of blogging. Life has been really crazy busy! I have another week off before winter quarter starts & I hope to blog before classes begin. For now, here's a photo of our first ("real") Christmas tree!

Sending all my love & wishing everyone a blessed Holiday & a very Happy New Year!

Oh! And follow Santa on this tracker, here!

2009-11-29T18:03:00.000-05:00

*Gown for SALE*

Beautiful yellow Jovani dress (size 4) up for grabs! Worn three times at Miss Maple City, Miss Ohio's Outstanding Teen & as a walk on gown for Miss America 2008!

Please email missoh07@yahoo.com if you're interested!