The Adventures of Miss Florida 2008: Dancing with the Stars!

Hello friends!

Last weekend was our 2009 Contestant Orientation. What a great weekend! I was so excited to meet all of the contestants and share some of my experiences from my year with them.

The Sunshine State girls!

On Saturday morning Courtney and I took pictures with all of the girls and then each had the opportunity to speak to the contestants and their parents. I also modeled the Opening Number/On-stage Question dress for the Misses and everyone loved it!

Thanks to Ann Marie Griffin at Ann Marie's for the fabulous outfit!!

Before we knew it it was time to get ready for the Salute - our "Dancing with the Stars" themed tribute to Miss Florida and Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen 2008. As we got our make-up done and slipped into our complimentary gold and silver gowns, we didn't know what to feel! We were excited to celebrate each of our successful years, but also felt like it was coming to an end all too quickly. But as we made our way downstairs and were greeted by our dear friends and family, we couldn't help but smile from ear-to-ear and relish in the moment.

Two "stars", courtesy of David and Carry at Regalia. Thanks guys!

Overall, the evening was just perfect. The contestants were introduced and Courtney and I entered, escorted by our parents, to the "Dancing with the Stars" theme song. It was so much fun! As dessert was being served we showed video/slide shows of our years and then each said our thank-yous and presented awards to our sponsors, friends, and family - those people who made this year unforgettable. Everything went as planned, including having time to get everybody on the dance floor at the end! It was a night to remember!

With two of my three Sunshine Princesses, Alina and Shelby

On Sunday morning I had another chance to speak to the contestants in a smaller setting. I am excited for this group of girls! Pageant week is going to rock!

After the day's activities ended, Mary and I went to a reception for the Japanese leaders of St. Pete's sister city, Takamatsu, at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater (where the pageant will be!). It was an honor to meet the guests, including the mayor of Takamatsu!

The past few days I have spent running around the city securing sponsors for pageant week and taking care of some other "housekeeping". I'll keep you posted on the busy week ahead! Also, I wanted to share some photos from the B.A.B.E. 2 Boyland Event.

Getting ready for the "Miss"ion: Possible! talk on the great things God can do in your life while you're single. :)