KSBI 52

If you remember, Twenty Something Magazine announced the winner of the June Twenty Something Magazine girl contest on KSBI 52 in early May. After I was named the winner, I was invited to co-host the show! Be sure to tune in to KSBI tomorrow at 11 am to watch Kealy and I host a wide variety of guests and address several different topics. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity and couldn’t be more excited to join the show for a day!

Slowly but Surely

Between the cardio, weights, dancing, packing, preparing pre-institute work, packing, organizing, school appearances, and trying to maintain my sanity – things are MOVING around here! I leave a week from today for Tulsa and still cannot believe the time has come. Whether I’m more excited about soon competing or eating a cheeseburger (or real, flavorful coffee, or french toast, or croissant, or cinnamon roll, or….well…you understand) I’m not sure! There is still so much to do, and not as much time as I wish I had allotted!

Yesterday I picked up my talent costume and today I picked up my opening number dress, white ramp gown, and swimsuit from alterations. That talent costume is like wearing a trash bag – it’s SUPER hot, but talent is first so I should be able to sweat out a few pounds before swimsuit! (That is, if the red coats can peel it off my body!)I also dropped off my interview dress (after FINALLY finding a pair of heels which somewhat matched!) for alterations as well. It won’t be ready until Wednesday – let’s hope it fits! Sunday I will have a fitting for my evening gown (props to Kayne for making it in just under two weeks!) and could not be more excited to see what it looks like! My sarong and silver swimsuit/opening number shoes are in the mail, and I have started sorting through clothes which I will be taking to Tulsa and Phoenix. Around the Mills house we are Keeping Calm and Carrying On!

Now, if that sounds like a lot of clothing for one week, I’ll be the first to agree with you! These are all items which must be packed before the week begins (complete with checklist):

Talent: Talent costume, tap shoes.

Swimsuit: Swimsuit, sarong, silver heels. 

Evening gown: Gown, gown heels, jewelry.

Interview: Interview dress, interview heels, jewelry (in hand, but undecided!)

Ramp gown: White gown, gown heels, jewelry. 

Opening number: Opening number dress, silver heels, jewelry.

Red Carpet Premiere: Dress, heels, jewelry. (that’s right, none of that is crossed off!)

Various: bedding, room decorations, secret pal gift, four “nice” dinner outfits, Kiwanis luncheon outfit, Family brunch outfit, rehearsal clothes, Black pants/bright top for CMN hospital visit, college t-shirt, local title t-shirt, every color of shorts since you don’t know what color the shirts are, additional “just in case” clothing, robe, shoes and jewelry for all of the above, necessities (pajamas, curling irons, straighteners, rollers, bath mats, etc.), and oh so very much more…

To be perfectly honest, I will probably pack the same amount (if not more!) for one week at Miss Oklahoma than six weeks in Phoenix! It’s all coming together, it’s just taking a bit of time!

 

P.S. Watch for me on KSBI 52 Tuesday at 10 am – I’ll be co-hosting All About You!

Newcastle Middle School

Today was a really fun day! I’ve been so fortunate to team up with Janet, who works with the Girl Scouts. We worked together to combine my program with one of hers and it was awesome! The 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls of Newcastle were one of the best crowds yet. I’m always a bit concerned when speaking to older students, especially since I’ve met some sassy 5th grade groups, but the girls were intrigued and could relate to me so easily. My bullying experience peaked in middle school, and I can still feel the pain of being in a middle school cafeteria.

During Janet’s portion, she asked the girls to name a time they were hurt and then everyone would fold up the paper heart which was provided. Girls raised their hands with instances where they were called horrible names, left out or rejected. It hit home with one raised her hand and said she was called “pimple face.” Many know that I have struggled with acne for years, have tried nearly every medication, face wash, and even went to an Iridologist once. Even in recent months, my poor skin has been the point of teasing – and years later it is just as hurtful as it was in middle school.

As I began, I told the 200 excited young girls about my experiences with bullying – from being the victim to becoming a bully and a bystander. Their reactions and responses to my questions were right on par! These girls are smart to say the least. I was most impressed by their positivity. Occasionally, I will get a few smart-alecky kids (often the ones who need my program the most), but I did not have one negative comment or mean look. I haven’t had many students who react in such a way, but I expected it from middle school girls. I was thrilled that they took my message and ways to stop bullying to heart.

After the presentations, I fielded a great number of questions about bullying, what I have learned, and how to handle relational aggression. Normally, students are most interested in the pageant or my “favorite things,” but these girls meant business! They also wanted me to autograph their hearts, bullying bracelets and notebooks. I also signed three shoes – not my sole request (couldn’t resist), but the first time I’ve added my “autograph” to a shoe! I was also given a poem about friendship and what it can do against bullying. This sweet gift has been one of the highlights of my platform experience and I am thrilled to share!

“Friends are there to heal the wound

to pull you out of saddened tunes

to brighten up your cloudy skies

to clear up fictitious lies.

Friends are there with open arms

to comfort you and block the harms

to keep your secrets hidden away

and entertain when you want to play.

Friends are there, smile or tear

Friends are there, happiness or fear

Friends are fun and friends are clever

and the ties that bind friends will last forever.”

By Casey Ball

I could not have had a better day in Newcastle! I sincerely hope that these girls will continue wearing their bracelets and remember what they learned during my visit. Being able to share my stories and knowledge to make a positive impact is exactly what God intended for me to do. One of my purposes in life is to be the mentor and friend children and teenagers can look to for guidance. I’m not sure if serving the state as Miss Oklahoma or nationwide as Miss America is in the greater plan for me, but I will absolutely never, ever stop working against relational aggression.

 

Lincoln Elementary

Last Friday I spoke to Lincoln Elementary’s 3rd, 4th and 5th graders! They were a fantastic bunch and absorbed everything I said. Though it was 9 am, the students were not only alert but interested!! I always love speaking with students who are the older trend setters in their schools. Often, they set the examples for younger students and I encourage them to model better behavior in order to create the safest social climate at school, home and in extracurricular activities. They loved their bracelets and enjoyed the gossip game we played even more! One of my new favorite things to take from schools is a list of memorable questions or quotes. Unfortunately, my memory card is being crazy and I cannot access the pictures taken on Friday. Hopefully my dad will have an answer for this when he gets home from work and I can upload them tonight!

• “How long does it take you to do your make up?”
• “How long does it take you to do your hair?”
• “If you absolutely had to change your name, what would you change it to?”
• “What is your favorite color?” “What is your favorite movie?”
• “Do you like Taylor Swift?” (Uh oh…I’m in trouble on this one!)
• “Are your bullies jealous of you now?” “Did your bullies ever apologize?” “What was the meanest thing you ever said about someone?”
• “Who do you think is going to win American Idol?” (Little did they know – even if I guessed, I know oh so little about singing!)
• “What is your talent? Will you tap dance for us?” (Met my screams and urging, I did a few wings!)
• “I know at Miss America you have to change clothes like super fast, so how fast can you change clothes?” (I may have to ask the Red Coats to time me this year!)
• “What is your favorite romance movie or book, you know, like Twilight?” (After proclaiming that I am, in fact ‘Team Edward’ the crowd went wiiiiiiiild!                                                                                                                                                      Lincoln’s students were awesome, and not only cared about anti-relational aggression efforts, but are already involved in a program to stop bullying in their schools! They have a program called Positive Leadership which consists of a few students, selected by each class for being consistently kind and caring towards others. After speaking to the groups, I was able to chat with these students about what they have learned prior to my visit and how they are preventing relational aggression at Lincoln. It’s always encouraging to see schools which know bullying is one of the greatest issues facing our students, and implement programs of this nature to protect their students!

Keep Calm and Carry On

Seems like I just picked my theme for Miss Oklahoma life this year! The past few weeks have been something else, to say the least. Last Saturday, I graduated from the University of Oklahoma, moved out of Norman, and somehow brought a small village’s worth of stuff to Shawnee. I’ll be back at home until Miss O, and directly after the pageant I will hop on a plane to Phoenix, where Teach For America institute is held. I found out Tuesday that I will be teaching at the Community Action Project, an early childhood type center in Tulsa. This means I’ll have teeny tiny ones, 4-5 years old! I will be in Phoenix until July 16th, when I’ll drive home and begin training for CAP July 18th. No summer for Miss Sooner State! I also met Kimberly and her mom in Tulsa to apartment shop on Monday, so to say the least – I’ve been a busy graduate!

Tomorrow I have another school assembly and later meet with Brian. Saturday I take my teaching exam in the afternoon, then a wedding Saturday evening (not to mention the Thunder game!), and Sunday I’m meeting with my choreographer again. I also have an estimated 30 hours of Teach For America homework to do in the next week, on top of working out, dancing, and preparing to be thrown into the real world. YIKES! 

Yesterday, Rep. Pittman’s anti-bullying bill failed to pass. The final vote was 44-52, incredibly close numbers. Though the bill did not pass, I know Rep. Pittman, Kirk Smalley, and others who have a passion to see the end of this hideous cycle will not stop seeking out schools, civic groups and lawmakers until something changes. If nothing else, I am more determined to visit an even greater number of Oklahomans to spread my message about relational aggression. Rep. Pittman intends to make a plea to State Superintendent, Janet Barresi, to join the cause against anti-bullying and help amend rules which are currently in place.

After yesterday’s photoshoot, I went to pick up my evening gown. I’ve been so excited for months, anxiously awaiting the day my gown would be in my hands. Unfortunately what arrived was not what was ordered, by no fault of the store itself. Somehow the factory had misinterpreted the designs sent and what came back was simply not my gown. This is not the first place Keep Calm and Carry On is necessary (nor the last I’m sure), but I find the words much more comforting after my moments of sheer panic. The poster was introduced by the British government in 1939, at the height of WWII. It was intended to raise morale in the event of an invasion. I’m putting a huge poster of this in my classroom, Miss O dorm room, and probably my future apartment in Tulsa. 

Miss Oklahoma is just a few short weeks away and today I am gownless. I have not decided what to do just yet, but I know that by remaining calm and thinking through it, God will provide an answer. I’m a huge believer in “everything happens for a reason,” and the good Lord would not give me more than I am capable of handling. This is just one more obstacle which I will overcome while gladly accepting the challenges which are ahead. At the end of the day, this is not the end of the world, just a bump in the road.

Twenty Something Preview

If you’ll recall a previous post, I was selected as the Twenty Something Magazine winner for the June Twenty Something Girl contest. Yesterday I met Kelsey and Bethany, the editors, in Oklahoma City for the photoshoot. If you don’t know these two, you need to, because they are beyond fun! Bethany is an amazing photographer (check out her work in the magazine) and Kelsey is not only a sylist, but a Thunder Girl! I really enjoyed getting to know them and trying my hardest for a serious face every now and then (Leigh, Larry: I think you would agree that I am seriously not serious. Maybe ever.) Jamy did my hair and make up which was faaaaabulous! I was dressed up like a pin-up girl – red lipstick and all! They were surprised to learn that I had never worn red lipstick, just recently learned how to curl my hair, and my ears are not pierced. And I call myself a pageant competitor?

We had a wonderful time and here are a few sneak peeks at the shoot, featured in the upcoming June issue. Be sure to like their Facebook page and check out their website to view the magazine!

Children’s Miracle Network

May is for Miracles and the perfect time to help a child through the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals! When I speak about the Miss America Organization, many are surprised to hear that the organization has a national platform, among the contestant’s platforms as well. Children’s Miracle Network and Miss America have teamed up for the past few years to provide mentors and funds to children’s hospitals across the nation.

CMN was founded partially by Marie Osmond (trivia for the day!), and you have probably seen their signature yellow balloon in many ad campaigns throughout America (above). As of this year, CMN hospitals have raised over $4.3 billion to help kids in every community. Children who benefit from CMN often have life-threatening illnesses including cancer or birth defects, but many are also treated for asthma, burns, broken bones or the flu. The most amazing aspect of CMN is that, while the organization often receives large donations, most funds are raised one or two dollars at a time.

An example of this is IHOP’s National Day of Pancakes. If you refer back to previous posts (A Syrupy Sweet Saturday, National Pancake Day) you’ll remember that IHOP helped fundraise nationwide for CMN hospitals. that day, participants could purchase bracelets or a paper balloon for just a few dollars to aid in the organization’s mission. Isn’t it amazing that donating one dollar can change a life in the big picture?

Right now, I am fundraising as a Miss Oklahoma contestant. My goal is $650 and I have raised $550! While only $100 shy of my goal donation, every dollar counts – and this is where I am asking you to join in my efforts. Please consider donating to the link below. As you’ve learned, every dollar counts and can make a huge difference in a child’s life. For more information, visit the link below or Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. 

DONATE HERE: CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK

Westminster Girl Scouts Troop #3177

A few weeks ago, I received a call from an Oklahoma City mom asking if I would come speak to their Girl Scout troop. Typically, I’m the one who is sending e-mails, letters and calling groups so needless to say, I was shocked and thrilled to be invited by a local organization! The Westminster Girl Scout Troop #3177 is a group of girls mostly in 2nd grade, and one precious Kindergartener. I spoke to the girls right after school and there are not words which could describe them. The entire room was not just filled with energy, but they nearly jumped out of their chairs (some did!) with excitement!

During my presentation the Girl Scouts gave great feedback! They were all eager to answer every question, even before it was asked. In between discussing relational aggression (we had to practice saying it a few times – even I can get tongue-tied!), the questions flew like popcorn! We had to save all those for later, but among my favorites include:

• “Oh my gosh. You’re so pretty! Where do you shop?”
• “Where do you get your clothes? Like, places that carry children’s clothes too!!”
• “I feel like I’ve seen you before. Do you shop at Penn Square Mall? I’ve definitely seen you there” “Oh my gosh me too!” “Me too!!”
• “Do you have a boyfriend? What’s his name???”

Taylor is always thrilled to hear that he is a focal point of every presentation. I was unsure why each group is so interested in this, but he explained that kids don’t know the difference between a beauty and scholarship pageant, therefore they think any beauty queen without a boyfriend would be weird. Go figure! What do you think about it? Any theories?

We also played the telephone game in two groups, which they L-O-V-E-D! The girls
enjoyed our silly game so much that we decided to play twice. Afterwards, we discussed what we learned and I always enjoy hearing the answers to what they gained from our chat. Each had something very important to add and made wonderful points or suggestions. These girls were kind, incredibly intelligent, and receptive to my message. I look forward to seeing the difference they make as the trend setters in the anti-bullying movement.

After our discussion, the girls went wild with autograph fever! Who knew Miss Sooner State was such a celeb?! They wanted everything signed – backpacks, Girl Scout bags, paper, notebooks, felt purses with their Girl Scout name (my favorite: Cupcake! How
cute!), and even a request for a shoe and an arm! Obviously, I was not going to sign this tiny angel’s arm with a Sharpie! 🙂 While they formed a line, the girls repeated the Girl Scout pledge and sang a song too! Every girl was able to have something signed and I loved being able to take a picture with each one! They were super fun and I was excited to spend so much time with these wonderful girls. Mikaela (left) had her American Girl book which promotes anti-bullying with her, and she wanted my John Hancock on it as well. I had never seen this book before, but it would also be great to utilize in future presentations to younger audiences!

I was sad to leave the Girl Scouts of Westminster and would have stayed all day if they didn’t have ballet classes and other activities to attend. Even as I was walking out the door, they wanted to give me great, big hugs and say goodbye. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and look forward to greeting other children who are as excited as Troop #3177 in promoting kindness and putting an end to bullying!

Truman: Take 2

Truman is a fantastic school which invited me back AGAIN! I spoke to two groups of 4th graders and another group of 5th graders. Their P.E. teacher, Mrs. Barr, and music teacher, Mrs. Tune (still cracks me up!) are strong advocates of anti-bullying behavior and were excellent resources. The fourth grade groups were a lot of fun, and as always, highly curious about how the crown stays on, if I would dance for them, and the most consistent question asked at every appearance – do I have a boyfriend!

We play the telephone game to show how gossip can spread and change over time, which is incredibly relevant to relational aggression. With the first group, we created one big circle, which took a while but the kids loved! When the second 4th grade group came in, we decided to split them into the boys and girls – somewhat of a competition. At the end of the game, there wasn’t even one word they said which was in the original sentence!

The 5th grade group was super sassy! The girls were so intrigued while the boys were focused on the bracelets I provided, what they could do with them, and gaining attention from their friends. Let’s just say that I received A LOT of experience handling those boys that I will use as a teacher next year! When they played the telephone game, I noticed that this age group of boys were less interested in gossip and more interested in blaming members of the group for “messing up” the sentence. I also was surprised to hear the boys tell me flat out that only girls used relational aggression (gossip, rumor spreading, alliance building, cyber bullying, name calling), to which I gladly and kindly told them that was incorrect.

I hope the boys took as much from my presentation as the other grades and the girls of the class did, but only time will tell! If nothing else, awareness and a strong role model was needed about RA and I am thrilled to provide both.

Twenty Something Magazine – WINNER!

I had to hold myself back from doing a little Charlie Sheen hash tagging (#winning), but considering Charlie and I have so little in common…it didn’t seem necessary!

I’m thrilled to relay that this morning on KSBI (a local Oklahoma station) the magazine announced ME as the winner of their June Twenty Something Magazine Girl search! If you remember from a few weeks ago, I posted a link to voting. Several young women were selected as finalists by the magazine and the public was asked to vote. The winner receives a photo shoot in the magazine along with an article about how they are a fun twenty something girl who is contributing to the betterment of our community.

Here’s an example of one of my pageant friends, Morgan Woolard, who is the May Twenty Something Girl. Morgan and I first met at Miss Oklahoma Teen USA in 2006. As it turned out, USA wasn’t for this short legged gal, but Morgan won – and it was her first pageant! It was one of those moments where you were truly thrilled for the winner and couldn’t have been happier if you’d won yourself. I really enjoyed getting to know her and have cheered her on ever since. She truly has a wonderful spirit and will do great things in life.

The magazine, created in April, is available online, so be sure to check it out. Look for me in next month’s issue!