"Animal Welfare and Protection Society" Commercial

With animals being my personal platform during my reign as Mrs. Colorado, I was thrilled when I was asked to be in a commercial for the “Animal Welfare and Protection Society.” This is a no kill shelter for lost and abandoned pets in Pueblo. I am a HUGE advocate of shelters such as this, because they give all animals a chance. The commercial was to advertise the new facility that they are building, which will be an environmentally safe design that will bring aid to the animals of today as well as in the future. They are a non-profit organization, and are entirely funded by donations and the generosity of volunteers. For more information on this incredible facility, please visit www.puebloawps.org.

Here I am getting ready to shoot the commercial.

These are the creative minds behind the camera.

Naturally my sweet dog, Neiko, appeared in the commercial with me. He is sure to be a celebrity after this! My husband, Scott, was disappointed that he didn't get any camera time though.

This little puppy took a real liking to Neiko, but he was not too excited about her. He prefers to believe that he’s the only dog in existence.

It’s always fun when I have “fans” come visit me at appearances. These kiddos belong to one of the guys who was filming the commercial.

Fox Box - August 21, 2009

On August 21, I had the opportunity to appear on Fox 31's "Fox Box". Fox Box is a segment of "Good Day Colorado" that invites special guests to discuss events currently making the news. The host of the show, Shaul Turner, along with Terrence Roberts (CEO, Prodigal Son Initiative), Ian Bagg (Actor/Comedian) and I all chatted about hot topics such as the debate on healthcare, whether or not our society is accepting of same sex relationships in politics, Michelle Obama's casual attire on family outtings, and the lady who believed to be pregnant with 12 babies. It was a great panel, with each of us bringing up strong points about the issues. I hope to be a return guest on Fox Box in the future, it was a lot of fun!

Children's Hospital Special Visit

One of the greatest things about being Mrs. Colorado is when a person requests your presence, knowing that it might brighten someones day. My mother and father-in-law have good friends who have a granddaughter, named Hailey, who was attacked by a dog when she was a young child, and was paralyzed from the waist down. Although Hailey leads a very normal life, she still requires surgeries every so often to keep everything in check. She was scheduled for one of her surgeries in August, and it was requested by her grandparents that I make a "special visit" to see her.

I had a wonderful time with Hailey, as we chatted about her involvement in 4-H where she participates riffle shooting and "Decorate Your Duds" (in which she received Grand Champion this year). She will go to the State Fair and compete in both categories in a few weeks, and looks forward to going elk hunting with her family this winter.

Make-A-Wish Foundation "Wine and Wishes"

On August 7th, I attended the “Wine and Wishes” event for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The objective of this event was to raise enough money to help send five “Wish Kids”, along with their families, to Hawaii. The theme for the night was a “Hawaiian Luau,” with delicious Hawaiian cuisine, hula dancers, and a silent auction with a multitude of great items to bid on. During the evening, I assisted at a raffle table where a $500 Tiffany’s gift certificate was awarded to the winner. While I made valiant efforts to win that gift certificate, it didn’t happen. None-the-less, it was a very successful evening with many people out to celebrate this noble cause.

For more information on the Make-A-Wish Foundation, to get involved, or to make a donation, visit their website at http://www.wishcolorado.org/.

My handsome husband, Scott, was my date for the evening. I’m so fortunate to have a husband who is so supportive. With most of my appearances being at least two hours away from home, he has graciously taken off work multiple times to be by my side as “Mr. Colorado.”

Karlyn Tilley of CBS4 was the emcee for the evening, and she did a fabulous job!

This was one of the “Wish Kids”, she was absolutely adorable! She entertained the crowds while cutting a rug on the dance floor, and even sang a song as a “bribe” to coerce more bidders during the silent auction. Looks like her “wish” of meeting her favorite musician, Demi Lovato, has inspired a star in the making.

Another “Wish Kid”, who was absolutely hilarious! He performed a bit of a comedy routine for the crowds, telling funny stories about his recent trip to Hawaii provided to him and his family by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

And this was the third “Wish Kid” of the night, who had just had his “wish” come true the week prior to the event. As an aspiring chef, he wanted to meet with the top chefs of Denver to learn their secrets. Watch out Denver…..this kid is going to take the cooking world by storm someday!

The most desired item of all the silent auctions was this authentic Fender guitar, autographed by Denver's own “The Fray”. This was the lucky guy who won the bid, and as you can see he was grinning from ear to ear.

"A Precious Child" Golf Tournament

Based on the concept of “A little laughter and a lot of love,” the A Precious Child organization is one based on providing children the basic essentials in life. From food and shelter, to providing school supplies, to offering support when difficulties arise in the home, A Precious Child is dedicated to meeting the needs of a child. On August 7th, I was given the opportunity to participate in a golf tournament benefiting this wonderful organization. Also offering her services for the morning was a very talented photographer Julie Karp, of Julie G Photography (http://juliegphotography.com). All the pictures displayed below are her work.
For more information on the A Precious Child organization, to volunteer, or to make a donation, please visit their website at http://www.apreciouschild.org/.

These wonderful ladies and myself drove around in golf carts on the course taking pictures and cheering on the golfers at the tournament. On my left is the founder and Executive Director of the A Precious Child Organization, Carina Martin.

Here I am pictured with Jeff Bailey and Dr. Lori Kemmet, who are supporters and sponsors of this noble cause. In addition, Jeff and Lori were both my judges at the Mrs. Colorado Pageant this year.

Here I am ATTEMPTING to look like a golfer, my husband laughed hysterically needless to say.

A great snapshot taken by Julie G Photography

This cute pooch belongs to Carina Martin (Executive Director of A Precious Child), and was featured in Oprah’s June 2009 issue of “O Magazine”. He is named after Denver Bronco’s football player, Champ Bailey.

Another great photo by Julie G Photography

2009 Miss and Master Patriotic Colorado Pageant

The 3rd Annual Miss and Master Patriotic Colorado Pageant was held on July 25th. The pageant began in 2007 when former Mrs. Colorado, Tiffany Sawyer, decided to organize this event donating all the profits to the families of fallen soldiers. Thirty-nine participants entered the pageant this year, raising over $4,000 for this great cause. With Tiffany being one of my “Queen Sisters” and a good friend, I was happy to lend a helping hand however I could. I acted as the “Judge’s Escort” and auditor, as well as assisting with handing out awards to the winners. For more information or to participate in the 2010 pageant, please visit the website at http://www.misspatrioticcolorado.com.

The 2009 Miss and Master Patriotic Colorado Pageant winners, the Director (Tiffany Sawyer) and myself.

The Pageant Director and my dear friend, Tiffany Sawyer. I was Tiffany’s 3rd Runner Up in 2007 when she was crowned Mrs. Colorado.

Standing next to the most coveted table of the afternoon….the banners, trophies, and the CROWNS!

2009 Toddler Miss Patriotic Colorado

2009 Miss Pre-Teen Patriotic Colorado

2009 Baby Miss Patriotic Colorado

2009 Little Miss Patriotic Colorado

2008 Jr. Miss Patriotic Colorado

All 39 participants singing along to the National Anthem in their “Patriotic Wear”

After Five Women's Group

These pictures got lost in my camera, so this post is making it up a bit late. This was my first “hometown” appearance as Mrs. Colorado. So not only was it extra special being my first hometown appearance, but the titleholders and some of the candidates from the pageant I direct (the Canon City Music and Blossom Festival Pageant) were also in attendance at this event. It was a wonderful evening put on by the After Five Christian Women’s group. They had a great guest speaker, and we dined on delicious food. I acted as the “Gown Commentator” while my titleholders/candidates modeled their evening gowns for the ladies.

A proud director with her titleholders, a few of the candidates and dear friend, Jamie Patrick

Jazz Concert Benefiting the Mrs. Colorado Foundation

On July 30th, I attended a wonderful event that benefited the Mrs. Colorado Foundation. It was held at the Solid Grounds Coffee House in Littleton, and the featured entertainment was a very talented jazz group called the Michael Shults Quartet. They graciously donated over percent of the cover to the foundation.

Here I am pictured with the Michael Shults Quartet

Royal Image Boutique Open House

July 18 was a very busy day for me, as I was scheduled for three appearances. My first of the day was for an open house at the Royal Image Boutique, owned by former Mrs. Colorado, Raeanne Duca. She has great clothing, and I will be wearing a lot of her pieces during Mrs. America Pageant week in September. Raeanne also specializes in evening gowns and special occasion dresses, in addition to carrying jewelry and accessories. Check out her website at http://www.royalimageboutique.com/.

One of the Mrs. Colorado 2009 contestants, Pamela Gabarron, stopped by and bought some very cute clothes.

Bare Escentuals Cherry Creek Mall

My second appearance of the day was at the Bare Escentuals store in the Cherry Creek Mall. I had a fun afternoon greeting customers, signing autographs and taking pictures. The staff treated me like royalty, even giving me a makeover. Their products are amazing! Bare Escentuals was gracious enough to act as a sponsor to the Mrs. Colorado Pageant this year, offering complimentary make up application to the contestants during preliminaries and finals.

Here I am pictured with the AMAZING staff at Bare Escentuals in the Cherry Creek Mall.

What girl doesn’t love getting a makeover? My eyes looked amazing when she was done!

It’s always so fun when little girls see me in my crown and they ask me if I’m a “real princess.”

A few boys were even lured into the store to get an autograph card!

"Queen for the Night" party

My third and final appearance on July 18 was a very special event honoring a woman who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Julie is a good friend of one of the women who I competed with in the Mrs. Colorado Pageant this year, Laura Felix. Being the kind hearted woman that Laura is, she organized this wonderful evening full of Julie’s family and friends, as well as many of the 2009 Mrs. Colorado candidates. I only wish that everyone who is challenged with a health problem could have such an amazing support system as Julie does.

Here I am with the beautiful and brave Julie.

This is the woman who pulled this whole event together, Laura Felix. If only everybody had a friend as great as her.

Myself, Julie and the 2009 Mrs. Colorado candidates who came out to show their support.

Here I am with my mom and Laura. I have to give thanks to my mom for being my traveling companion and my own personal paparazzi while at appearances. Living in Canon City, most of my appearances are at least an hour to two hours away, and my mom is kind enough to keep me company on the long drives. Plus, it gives us some much needed “mother-daughter chatting time.”

Denver Children's Hospital

I was honored to spend another afternoon at the Denver Children’s Hospital; this time was devoted to visiting the kids in their rooms as a “special guest”. I don’t think that I’ll ever leave that place without feeling totally humbled and inspired by these amazing kids and their families. Every night in my prayers now, I’ve permanently added the Denver Children’s Hospital. It was a wonderful afternoon of visiting, as EVERY child that I spoke with was most likely going back home within the week, what great words to hear!

Here I am with a fellow “Megan.” We were so excited to not only have the same name, but also that we spell it the same way too.

This was the Children’s Hospital volunteer who took me around to visit the rooms during the afternoon. I admire these volunteers so much for what they do!

Style-a-Thon

On July 12, I attended the “Style-a-Thon”, which benefitted the Mrs. Colorado Foundation. It was held at the beautiful Solera Salon in Centennial, CO. Some of the stylists volunteered their time to offer their services, with the only cost for this great day of pampering being a donation made to the foundation. The event proved to be very successful as over $2,000 was raised.
The Mrs. Colorado Foundation was created by Mrs. Colorado 2006/Mrs. America 2007, Marney Duckworth, and has provided deserving women in the state of Colorado scholarships to further their education. The Mrs. Colorado Pageant works as a partner with the foundation to help raise funding. For more information on the Mrs. Colorado Foundation, or to make a donation, visit the website at http://mrscofoundation.org.

This is DJ McDermott, the hair stylist extraordinaire to the Mrs. Colorado Pageant. DJ has done my hair for the Mrs. Colorado Pageant for the past three years now, and is a true artist to hair styling. DJ was one of the stylists at the Style-a-Thon who volunteered his services for a good cause.

Here is DJ pictured with Jennifer Lamont, Mrs. Colorado 2005.

Pictured with Alichia Ryan, who is a gracious sponsor to the Mrs. Colorado Pageant. She offered her hydrafacials during the day, which everyone absolutely raved about!

Raeanne Duca of the Royal Image Boutique (and Mrs. Colorado 2000) set up shop for the day, with all the profits she made going towards the Mrs. Colorado Foundation. I always get into trouble when I go shopping at the Royal Image Boutique, because she carries the greatest clothing and accessories! Check out the website at http://www.royalimageboutique.com/.

Here I am pictured with a Denver celebrity, Denise Plante, of the Colorado and Company TV show on Channel 9 and co-host of the KOSI 101.1 morning show.

Photographer Ronnie B donated his time by shooting pictures of the event. He took this fun candid shot of me, amongst many other great photos of the day. Check out his work at http://www.digitalsbyronnie.com/

2009 Miss Colorado America Pageant

On June 28th, I attended the Miss Colorado America Pageant. It was a great show and all the contestants looked amazing! Beautiful and talented young women from all over the state of Colorado competed in the Miss Colorado, Miss Colorado's Outstanding Teen, and the Miss Colorado Teen divisions.

This was the first pageant I attended as a spectator since I won Mrs. Colorado, and I must say that it was REALLY nice to just sit in the audience and relax for a change!

Here I am pictured with the newly crowned Miss Colorado America, Katie Layman. She was stunning on stage, and performed a beautiful dance routine for her talent. Best of luck to Katie at the Miss America Pageant!

For more information, visit their website at www.misscolorado.org.

Style-A-Thon to Benefit the Mrs. Colorado Foundation

What: Style-A-Thon to benefit the Mrs. Colorado Foundation

When: Sunday, July 12th from 10 am - 4 pm

Where: Timothy D’s and Solera Salon located at 8770 East Arapahoe Road, Suite 130, Centennial, CO 80112

Services: All services are provided FREE OF CHARGE (typically priced between $50-$100 per service), with suggested donations going directly to benefit the Mrs. Colorado Foundation. Color, Cut, Styles, Facials and More! (services such as color, facials, and nails will require product fees of $15-$20).

For appointments, please call Timothy D’s directly at 303.744.6444

Mrs. Colorado 2009, Megan Yarberry, will be on hand signing autographs throughout the day. Door prizes and more!!!

Treat yourself to a fun afternoon, while donating to a great organization!

Visit mrscofoundation.org for more information about the Mrs. Colorado Foundation.

"Mrs. Colorado Day" BBQ

Former Governor, Bill Owens, bestowed the Mrs. Colorado Pageant with an "Honorary Proclamation" proclaiming June 13, 2001 as "Mrs. Colorado Day." This was done to honor the commitment made by this organization to our communities and state.

Raeanne Duca, Mrs. Colorado 2000 and owner of the Royal Image Boutique, was kind enough to host a BBQ at her home in honor of "Mrs. Colorado Day". It was a wonderful evening enjoyed by good company and delicious food.

Winning the title of Mrs. Colorado not only gives one lucky woman a year the opportunity to represent our state at Mrs. America and make multiple appearances on behalf of this organization, but it allows the chance to become a "Queen Sister." Former pageant director, Tricia Dampier, created such a fantastic environment for her queens that they never want to leave. Over time, a "family" was created and is now being carried on by the new director Emily Stark. I have said it before, and I'll say it a million times more during my reign....I am honored to be a part of this group of women who I respect and admire so much. Pictured above are 9 of us in the Mrs. Colorado sisterhood.

Of course we couldn't have a "Mrs. Colorado Day" without this handsome group of men....our "Mr. Colorado's." The men weren't too excited about this picture at first, but I just couldn't resist making them all pose. It's nice to recognize these great guys in our lives, and tell them thanks for being such great "pageant hubbies"!

4th Annual "Bark at the Briargate"

I've always LOVED animals! My parents encouraged my appreciation for our furry friends at a very young age, and for that I am so thankful. I have never lived a day in my life without having a pet. My husband and I don't have children of our own yet, but we do have two incredible "fur babies." Our Norwegian elkhound dog, Neiko, and gray shorthair cat, Oscar, make our lives so much fun and complete.

It was only fitting when I was crowned Mrs. Colorado that I wanted take my title as an opportunity to work with various animal organizations. This was the first, of what I'm hoping will be many, animal focused events.

I spent a chilly Saturday afternoon supporting the 4th Annual "Bark at the Briargate," held in Colorado Springs at the Promenade Shops at Briargate. This event was originally launched so that shoppers would realize how pet-friendly the Promenade Shops at Briargate are. Many shops and restaurants actually welcome pets to both shop and dine with their owners. Following the "Bark at the Briargate" was the "Yip Yip Yappy Hour," which included a canine fashion show, live music, food and refreshments.

Many pet related vendors set up booths to showcase their goods and services, and dogs of all shapes and sizes roamed around (on leashes of course) with their owners. It was quite a sight to behold, and was a lot of fun!

Wow!!! This Great Pyrenees was truly a "gentle giant"! What a beautiful and sweet animal!

Pet owners were given the chance to submit their pet's photo to the Promenade Shops at Briargate’s facebook page. Various gift certificates were awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Here I am standing next to the picture board displaying all the pet entries.

This is Reagan, he was the 2nd place winner of the pet picture contest. He was a very regal, patriotic dog.

This dog had the royal treatment; she rode around in her own little pink doggy stroller all day!

During the event I hung out under the Colorado Petacular Magazine booth. This magazine is a wonderful tool for Colorado pet lovers as their various publications include information on "responsible pet care education, entertainment, and inspiration focusing on the Colorado lifestyle."

Kicking off the "Yip Yip Yappy Hour" was a canine fashion show, which was hosted by the Colorado Petacular Magazine. This little dog was cute as a button all gussied up as a southern belle.

This playful pooch was dressed up for the fashion show as a hunter.....camouflage and all.

As a fellow animal lover, my loyal and supportive "Mr. Colorado" enjoyed the afternoon with me.

"Queen for a Day" at the Children's Hospital

I was so humbled after spending an afternoon at the Denver Children's Hospital, where I was invited to participate in the "Queen for a Day" program. It was great to see other Colorado state titleholders, local firefighters, and multiple volunteers take part in this heartwarming event.

The little girls played dress up for the afternoon by having their make-up and nails done, and afterwards they were given their very own princess tiara and a pink feather boa. This event wasn't just for girls though, as boys had the opportunity to hang out with heroic firefighters who handed out helmets and sticker badges.

This is sweet little Maddy, her smile melted my heart! She was so enthusiastic and curious about all the happenings during the afternoon. What an angel!

Pretty in pink, and all smiles in her tiara and feather boa.

This little guy was such a trooper. Even though he just had a very painful surgery on his back, he still eagerly got up from his bed to take a picture with us.

Pictured with two fellow "Queens" who volunteered at the "Queen for a Day" program. On my left is Ms. United Nation International 2008, Vanessa Anderson and on my right is Miss Teen Colorado USA, Taylor Schettler.

Mrs. Colorado photo shoot

On Monday, June 1st I had my first official photo shoot as "Mrs. Colorado 2009." It was so much fun getting to wear my crown and banner in the pics, they're probably my favorite accessories I've ever had!

The mastermind behind all of my awesome pictures was Megan Anderson of Graphique Fine Art Photography, who is absolutley AMAZING! She makes taking pictures so much fun and effortless. My incredible make artist, Kari Kisch of "Make-up by Kari" made my look complete for the photo shoot. Christina Sacha, Mrs. Colorado 2008, recently started her own image consulting business called "Creating the Perfect You." I was so happy to have her at my photo shoot to provide her sevices. Also at there was the Mrs. Colorado Director, Emily Stark, to share her expertise. And my sweet mom was at the shoot too, she's such a trooper. She makes the long drive to Denver with me nearly every time I have an appearance or event.

Thanks for a GREAT day ladies!

American Heart Association's "Heart and Stroke Walk"

On June 6th, the American Heart Association hosted their annual “Heart and Stroke Walk” to help fight and bring awareness to heart disease. The Mrs. Colorado Organization showed our support by creating a group called “The Queen of Hearts”, which consisted of me, former Mrs. Colorado titleholders, 2009 contestants, and friends.

Here I am pictured with Christina Sacha, Mrs. Colorado 2008. In 2007 Christina’s husband suffered a massive heart attack. So needless to say, during her reign as Mrs. Colorado she was very involved with the American Heart Association. It was an honor to participate in this event and carry on the support created by Christina.

Mrs. Colorado Director, Emily Stark and me.

Our beautiful banner was created by “3rd Dimension Signs,” which is located in Canon City, Colorado.

My friend Jamie is such a trooper and supportive friend! I was so happy that she traveled to Denver with me to join us during the walk.

It was so much fun hanging out with some of my “Queen Sisters” during this great event! Pictured left to right: Emily Stark (Pageant Director and Mrs. Colorado 2002), Christina Sacha (Mrs. Colorado 2008), Sheri Engstrom (Mrs. Colorado 2004), me (Mrs. Colorado 2009), and Jennifer Lamont (Mrs. Colorado 2005).

Lori Pace (Mrs. Denver) and Kimberly Reece (Mrs. Westminster) were kind enough to hold our “Queen of Hearts”banner as we walked together in the fight against heart disease.