Project C.U.R.E. Luncheon at Castle Pines Country Club (Castle Pines)

On Wednesday, April 16th I attended a 2nd luncheon and fashion show for Project C.U.R.E. at the Castle Pines Country Club. Project C.U.R.E. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, humanitarian relief organization that collects medical supplies and equipment and donates it to developing countries. For more information please visit www.projectcure.org.

The Jasmine Boutique, from Castle Pines, outfitted all the ladies for the fashion show, and they looked GREAT! For more info. please visit www.jasmineboutique.com.
Pictured with Cheri Issel and Barbara Goldy who helped organize this event.
With Barbara Jacobsen from Project C.U.R.E.
With Janell Ames, Mrs. Parker, and Melissa Kraft, Mrs. Castle Pines.


Janell
Janell
Melissa
Melissa

Teen with a Dream (Denver Science Museum)

On April 5th I attended the 4th Annual Teen With a Dream charity dinner and silent auction at the Denver Science Museum. Teen With a Dream™ is a 501 (c) (3) charity founded specifically to enrich the lives of pediatric cancer patients—and the lives of their families—by combating the effects of social isolation and loneliness during chemotherapy through specialized social, educational, and financial programs. For more information please visit http://www.teenwithadream.org/

With Spencer Harrison, the founder of Teen With a Dream. In 2003, 14-year old Spencer Harrison spent most of his year fighting for his life. While the year was a tough one for both Spencer and his family, the 14-year-old chose to draw strength from his experience and help others undergoing the lonely, painful process of chemotherapy.With the entertainment, Kai Brown and his brother Rohin

With one of the scholarship winners.

With the host, Mitch Jelniker, ABC Channel 7 News in Denver.

Blossom Festival Pageant (Canon City)

On March 22 I was a judge at the annual Canon City & Music Blossom Festival Pageant, which is celebrating their 63rd year! The Blossom Pageant offers much more than a rhinestone tiara, sash, and a title. It allows them to practice hands on interview skills necessary for their future, gives them the opportunity to work on their public speaking abilities, teaches them to be comfortable in their own skin by boosting self-confidence, and makes memories to last a lifetime. For more information please visit their website at http://www.ccblossomfestival.com/pageant/index.htm

With my fellow judges, Ed & Patti Galligher and Christina Sacha.

Judges pictured with the new queen, Tanessa White.
With Christina and Debi Moore, Mrs. Colorado 1994
With Christina and Megan Yarberry, the Director of Blossom Pageant.
With Debi.
With my husband, Nate.

Patsy's Candy Open House & Fundraiser (Colorado Springs)

Patsy's Candy, in Colorado Springs, celebrated their 105th Anniversary this past weekend. They opened their "behind the scenes doors" to the public and gave free tours all day to show how their candy is made. They also raised money for the Colorado Springs Down Syndrome Association.

Patsy's was one of my sponsors to Mrs. America, and they provided me with custom made chocolate truffles with my name and title printed on the wrapper to hand out to the other Mrs. America contestants. If you're in Colorado Springs, you should stop by and visit them @ 1540 S. 21st Street. http://www.patsyscandies.com/

With JoLynn, one of the owners.
With Jordan, 13 years old.
With Ryan and his siblings.
With Stormy, the Easter Bunny helper for the day.
Mike Doyle from 740 AM KVOR broadcasted live from 11-1, and he is pictured with Annette who is also another one of the owners.

DJ's Reality TV Show (Denver)

Timothy D's-A Salon has been selected for the third season of "Split Ends" on the Style Network. This past Wednesday a bunch of his "pageant girls" showed up so he could get raw footage of him doing pageant up-do's. Below is an article on what the show is all about. Above is Rita Case getting her up-do and our favorite cameraman, Randy, from RH Productions.

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6523503.html

Jonella Roth and Emily Stark getting ready for their "do's"
Emily Stark
Jonella Roth
Julie Nutter
Raeanne Duca
Christina Sacha
I'm all done!

Raeanne is making sure my crown is on straight.
Raeanne, myself, and Christina

Walk to Iraq and Back (Ft. Carson)

Walk to Iraq and Back (WTIAB) is a program in which individuals and groups join together to collectively walk 14,160 miles - the distance from Fort Carson to Baghdad - as a healthy way to show support for our Soldiers. You don't have to be at Fort Carson to participate. Just start walking and tracking your miles. As of this week, Fort Carson Soldiers, family members, civilian employees and civilian supporters around the Pikes Peak Region have walked a total of 15,595 miles!

With my friend and neighbor, Reka.
Signing a large banner that will be sent over to Iraq to support our soldiers.
I can't remember the last time I had my picture taken with the Easter Bunny, and I didnt' want to pass up this opportunity :)

National Salute to our Hospitalized Veterans Week (VA Hospital, Denver)

The week of February 11-15 has been designated as "National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week." I had the honor of visiting vets at almost every floor of the Veterans Hospital in Denver on Valentine's Day. This day was another reminder to me of our veterans who face many challenges after their military service to our country. If you have the time, I encourage you to visit your local VA Clinic or Hospital just to say "thank you" to our vets. Your kindness, and those simple words can make a big difference in somebody's life. It's the least we can do since they have done so much for us. Debbie Baker, Mrs. Pikes Peak 2008, and I visited the hospital together and passed out homemade Valentine's from a local Brownie Troop. Debbie and I celebrating our day together at the hospital.
Pictured above with Barbara Lilly, the volunteer specialist from Volunteer Services, and our escort for the day. She is one of the nicest ladies you will ever meet. If you ever want to volunteer your time at the hospital give her a call!
Debbie and I are pictured above with our lunch escort, the comical Chaplain Charles Keogh from Volunteer Services and Pastoral Care.

Debbie, Mrs. Pikes Peak, posing in front of the Pikes Peak hallway at the nursing home.

Hearts for the Homeless Luncheon (Colorado Springs)

On Sunday, February 10 I attended the Interfaith Hospitality Network of Colorado Springs' annual Hearts for the Homeless luncheon and auction. IHN provides shelter, meals, hospitality and case management support for families with children who find themselves in a homeless situation. I'm pictured with my dear friend, and horseback riding buddy, Marilyn White from Stratmoor Hills United Methodist Church.
Pictured above with Regina Lewis and her son Charles. They were two of the inspirational guest speakers at the luncheon, and she is also the CEO and Founder of "Regina Speaking".

Project C.U.R.E. Luncheon & Fashion Show (Castle Pines)

On Friday, Feb. 8th I attended the Project C.U.R.E. Luncheon & Fashion show at Jimmy's Steakhouse in Castle Pines. Project C.U.R.E. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, humanitarian relief organization that collects medical supplies and equipment and donates it to developing countries. For more information please visit www.projectcure.org.

With Lucinda (Jimmy's wife from Jimmy's steakhouse)
Melissa Kraft, Mrs. Castle Pines, is working the runway with her resort wear by Jasmine Boutique.
Melissa is modeling another beautiful gown from Jasmine Boutique in Castle Pines.
Pictured with Melissa Kraft, Mrs. Castle Pines.

Bridal Showcase (Colorado Springs)

On Saturday, January 26 I was a special guest at the Bridal Showcase held at Glen Eryie Castle in Colorado Springs. My duties included greeting the new brides-to-be as well as handing them a small bouquet of flowers as they entered. This event was sponsored by Celebrity China & Crystal, Danelle's Bridal Boutique, Tuxedo Junction, the Glen Eyrie Castle, and KBIQ 102.7fm.

Bridgewater College Magazine Article

Hello again! Here is another article that was just published in my college alumni magazine. Enjoy!!!

http://www.bridgewater.edu/newimages/alumni/bmwinter08_competitivespirit.pdf

Denver Post Article

Hi Everyone! If seems like it's been forever since I've posted on the blog. I hope everybody had happy and safe holidays. In case you missed the Denver Post or the Gazette (Colorado Springs paper) last month I was in there for catching a 13.2lb 29 inch long rainbow-cutthroat (Cutbow) while Nate and I were ice fishing in -40 degree weather at Antero Reservoir. I never thought I would mount a fish on my wall, but I've proved myself wrong. This one is a keeper.

I thought you might get a kick out of this, so here's the article! For all you previous contestants that have heard me say I enjoy ice fishing on my stage form, this just goes to show that I really do!

http://www.denverpost.com/outdoors/ci_7754775

Fandie's Candy Company Ribbon Cutting (Canon City)

On Dec. 13, Fandie's Candy Company, owned by Debi Moore, Mrs. Colorado 1994, had their official ribbon cutting ceremony with the Canon City Chamber of Commerce.
This is an awesome candy store, you have to visit next time you're in Canon City. Debi makes the best amaretto fudge I've ever had! She also has hundreds of items to choose from, including nostalgic items you can't find anywhere else.

Jingle Bell Run (Washington Park, Denver)

On Dec. 9 I was the co-emcee with KOSI 101 for the 16th Annual Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis in Washington Park. We managed to keep warm somehow and get all the racers kicked off for their 3 mile run. Over $65,000 was raised for the Arthritis Foundation’s mission to prevent, control and cure arthritis and related diseases. The Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis raises awareness of America’s leading cause of disability, while raising desperately needed funds to find a cure for arthritis. Please visit http://jinglebellrundenver.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=234427&lis=1&kntae234427=1BC294A0C4444C549AE217BBC1261840 for more information.
These famous pooches showed up with bells on for the costume contest. It was no surprise that they walked away with the crown! This is the 2nd appearance I've seen them at, and the last one was at Ladies Nite Out at the BelMar Center. They were dressed up as the Village People!

Mrs. Colorado Christmas Party

We all had a blast at the annual Mrs. Colorado Christmas Party at the Great Northern Tavern on Dec. 7. Above is a picture of Sharon Nuanes, Mrs. Colorado 1981, being crowned by Marney Duckworth, Mrs. Colorado 2006 and Mrs. America 2007. When Sharon won Mrs. Colorado in 1981 she never received a crown, so Tricia thought it was about time for her to have her very own.
With the former queens.
Trish and myself.
Debi Moore, Mrs. Colorado 1994, and myself.
After the party Debi and I had a slumber party with Amy Nugent, Mrs. Colorado 1996, at her house. Amy happened to pick the gift that Debi brought for the gift exchange. Aren't they cute in their matching pajamas!

VFW Ladies Auxiliary Dinner (Golden)

This past Friday I was a special guest at the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Adopt-a-Unit Dinner in Golden. I had a great time meeting some of our vets from Colorado as well as New Jersey.Addressing the audience about my experiences as a military spouse and the Mrs. Colorado organization.My favorite picture from the whole night comes from my new buddy that asked me at least 5 times, "Are you REALLY Mrs. Colorado? Is that crown heavy?". So of course I had to let him try it on :)
With Reanae, the President of the Ladies Auxiliary in Golden who organized and held this special dinner for the Adopt-A-Unit.

Veterans Dinner (Idaho Springs)

Nathan and I were invited to the Elks Lodge in Idaho Springs for their annual Veterans Dinner. I handed out awards for teacher, firefighter, EMT and policeman of the year. We enjoyed meeting all of the nice folks in Idaho Springs and saluting our vets.
With Irvin Krueger, WWII and Korean Campaign vet.
With future Miss Colorado, Emma, and her dad Bart Sander. It's been a tradition for Emma and her dad to get a photo with the reigning Mrs. Colorado at the Veterans Dinner for the last several years.
My favorite vet of them all :)

Family Vacation in Ireland

Nathan and I spent the last two weeks traveling and visiting beautiful castles, coasts, and history in Ireland. Most importantly we were there for his brothers wedding. I wanted to share some of our photos with you. The above photo is me outside of the Trim Castle in Trim, Ireland. Tricia suggested I take my sash for a photo op. What's a queen without her castle?
This is where I would live if I had a castle. This is the Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland, and it is absolutely breathtaking in person as it sits rights on the edge of the coast.


Whoa!!! This is a LONG way down. You can see Nathan, JT (the groom), and his parents in the background.

FYI: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a rope suspension bridge in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The bridge links the mainland to the tiny Carrick Island. It is thought salmon fishermen have been erecting bridges to the island for over 300 years. It has taken many forms over the years. In the 1970's it featured only a single handrail and large gaps between the slats. Although no one has fallen off the bridge, there have been many instances where visitors, unable to face the walk back across the bridge, have had to be taken off the island by boat.

On a clear day, you can see Scotland from the Northern Ireland coast.

A classic view of Ireland's countryside.

Of course we had to go to the famous Waterford Crystal Factory. I think we came home with half of their showroom.

Vicki (my mother in-law) and I opted out of going to a rugby game. Instead, we went to the International Horse Show in Belfast.

ALS Walk to D'Feet (Ft. Collins)

It was a rainy day on Oct. 14 at the CSU Oval in Ft. Collins for the ALS Walk to D'Feet benefiting Lou Gehrig's disease. The mission of the ALS Association - Rocky Mountain Chapter is to improve the quality of life for ALS patients and their families and to provide patient services support for the management and progression of the disease. Please visit http://alsaco.org/?content=page&page=home for more information.
Walking the oval with the participants and helpers.

Ladies Nite Out (BelMar Center @ Lakewood)

I was invited to the third annual Ladies Nite Out! in Lakewood that was held on October 11, 2007. It was held at the beautiful new Belmar Event Center in the heart of the Belmar Shopping District, just off Alameda and Wadsworth. I enjoyed mingling with all of the ladies and of course checking out all the shopping. I was also the MC for the Fall Fashion Show with some special guests...The Village People! Well not really, they were bulldogs dressed up as the village people strutting their stuff down the runway. If you ever get the chance to go to a Ladies Nite Out! I truly recommend the experience. I'm pictured above with one of the young ladies at the event.
I am one lucky girl. Susan Aberbook from B's purses let me pick out any purse I wanted to carry around and keep. So I went for the stylish laptop bag. Be sure to check out her website for some great shopping...Christmas is just around the corner! www.bspurses.com/saberbook
Pictured with some of the ladies working a travel agent booth.