Masquerade Ball

Give Denver

 

October 15th 2011

 

I was thrilled to be invited to a Masquerade Ball and one that is organized for a good cause, makes it even better. The event was held at the New Eastside Human Services Office Building and was also the grand opening.

The Masquerade Ball will benefit GIVE Denver, a donation and volunteer program which provides foster children, the homeless and other families in need with basic necessities, holiday gifts and school supplies.

 

with Becca Smith, my date for the evening.

Most events allow me to bring along a special guest, which has been wonderful for me to be able to share my adventures with the amazing people in my life. Becca, a dear friend of mine, and I had the pleasure of helping out with the photo booth and mingling with the attendees. We also had a chance to walk around to view the amazing hand painted masks provided by the children of the family crisis center which were on display and up for auction with proceeds going back to the program. The masks were created through the Mosaic Art Therapy Program, which helps youth heal by expressing themselves through art. The Mayor, Michael B. Hancock helped with a dedication ceremony, Phat Daddy played live music, and a light dinner was provided by Occasions by Sandy.

Photo Shoot

Program Book Cover Shoot

October 13th and October 16th 2011

One of my most favorite aspects of competing in the pageants over the years has been creating the ad page for the program book. This year is no different- except it will be the front cover.

I can hardly wait to see the finished product from the two photo shoots we put together. The concept for the shoots were on completely different spectrums, which makes it all the more fun.

Our first shoot was beautifully designed from the elegant attire to the gorgeous back drop.

The second shoot was entirely edgy, the makeup, the hair, the background, and the outfit.

With a team like ours you can't go wrong. Emily was the driving force behind the ideas, Megan captures the image behind the camera, Kari brought her magic paint brushes and DJ created a one of a kind look, from the visions to the collaborated talents of our crew, it is going to be spectacular! I can only anticipate which image will be chosen, but I know it will be incredible.

 

Our Colorado Crew. This was just one of the two shoots.

Kari Kisch putting on some final touches

DJ from Timothy D's, using his skills to perfect our look.

Megan Anderson from Graphique Photography, checking lights one last time before capturing the moment.

 

Boa Ball

Wildlife Preservation

October 8th 2011

If you have never been to the Wildlife Experience located in Parker it is a wonderful place to learn about the environment in which we live. Within the museum you will have the opportunity to enjoy interactive exhibits, beautiful pieces of fine art, Large format film (IMAX), natural history, and participate in educational programs.

I was invited to the 9th annual BOA Ball to help raise funds and awareness for the Wildlife Experience and their efforts to educate and preserve our natural wildlife.

What an exciting event. It was a Black and White themed ball with fire dancers, stilt walkers, silent auction, dinner, and dueling pianos. I was encouraged to bring a guest to accompany me to the event. It was an honor to be able to share the evening with my mom. We had a fantastic time posing in the photo booth, selecting participants for the "Best Dressed" and mingling with the guests.

with Aubrey Ryan, the Development Specialist and coordinator  for the Wildlife Experience

with Tred Barta  and his wife Anni. Tred was the inspirational guest speaker for the evening festivities.

with my beautiful mother and date for the evening, Shiela.

 

Field trip

People in our Community Field trip

October 6th 2011

I absolutely love being involved in my children's school and classrooms. I enjoy getting to know the staff and students where my children spend their days. I also feel there is something unsaid when they see my involvement with their education, friendships, and activities. Plus, let's be honest there is that added bonus of them knowing "mom is watching". I am hoping to set up and create this foundation for my children where they know I am here and they follow my lead. I am walking the walk.

I was honored to be asked by the second grade team of teachers to help create and speak at the field trip where they would be learning about "People in the Community". I quickly got on the phone and asked the mayor of our town, David Casiano to help out as well. He is a friend of mine and I knew he would be an incredible resource and besides that, to the children he is like the president.
We had a great time touring our new performing arts center which was led by the mayor, watching a fire and police demonstration, walking through an old school house on Mainstreet, and enjoying sweet treats from our local cupcake place, Nomelie's Cupcakes. 

with Mrs. Waite's 2nd grade class from Cherokee Trail  Elementary and David Casiano, the mayor of Parker.

with Mrs. Waite, David Casiano the mayor of Parker, and Griffin my son.

Stop Child Trafficking Stiletto Run and 5k

SCTnow.org

September 24th 2011

Our Team the "Royal Pains"

Child Trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in the world. With over 2 million children victims, UNICEF estimates that every year this horrific crime is a $12 billion market.
When I heard the statistics, I had to get involved. This is my second year with this organization, which was brought to Denver by two very passionate and extremely hard working women, Jolene Picone and Julia Gentry. They had met Lynette Lewis who is the founder of SCTnow at a convention where they heard her speak so eloquently about the topic.
Last year was the first year SCTnow was brought to Denver and we organized the Stiletto Run and 5k run/walk, the first ever Denver Stiletto race. It was a HUGE success raising over $40,000 our first year.
This year almost didn't happen with our venue sponsor, Six Flags-Elitch Gardens, pulling out two months before the event. We were fortunate enough to relocate the race only weeks before the event to Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City. Even though we were unable to promote or market our event like we had the previous year, we still had around 200 racers. We are looking forward to partnering with Dick's again next year and building on our already amazing sponsor list

with Julia and Becca

The racers lining up for the stiletto run.  We had a great turnout!

with the Stiletto racers.

Hyatt and Mrs. Colorado Partner for 2012 Preliminary Event

We have an amazing host hotel—The Hyatt Denver Tech Center Hotel. The Hyatt has the distinction of being Denver Tech Center's only AAA Four Diamond awardee and they offer more of what you desire in a first-class hotel. Relax in truly luxurious accommodations while you enjoy unparalleled services and amenities. They have created an amazing Mrs. Colorado special of only $105 a night. This is an incredible deal for family and friends to take advantage of. To book your reservations there use the link below. We will host all events at the Hyatt from Wednesday night through Friday night. Your family and friends may use the Mrs. Colorado special rate.

https://resweb.passkey.com/go/MrsColorado2012

http://www.techcenter.hyatt.com/

Space is limited so book your accommodations. See everyone soon

Denim and Diamonds

Lutheran Family Services

with Ram, Chandra, San Tin, and Man the National Honor Society students from the refugee program.

I have been fortunate enough to have done an appearance with this organization earlier in my reign, the Zoo BQ.   Great individuals working hard for the children and the elderly.  They devote much of their time and funds to adoption, foster care, care management, and refugee programs.  This event was held in Colorado Springs at the Antlers Hilton in the ballroom.  We had the opportunity to bid on amazing auction items, partake in the live auction, and enjoy the dinner and fellowship of the Lutheran community.  There were four refugee teenagers who were among the elite in their academic classes and were given the honor of being recognized at the event.  I look forward to working along side this organization in the future.

with Emily Stark my fabulous director and date for the evening.

September 20th

Out of State Appearance

Las Vegas

September 18-19th

with Cynthia, the director of the event and Tiffany, Ms. Fitness

It is all who you know.  I have been working out with the amazing Tiffany Yee who is Ms. Fitness USA and she was invited to attend a convention in Las Vegas.  Tiffany casually mentioned that she knew the current Mrs. Colorado and they jumped at the chance to have two Colorado gals come and make an appearance for their clients.  Being a mother first, it had to be a quick visit for me.  I flew in early Sunday and made the appearance on Monday only to fly out later that night.  It was a great time and an opportunity for me to meet new and exciting people.  We stayed at the MGM, but the event was held at the Venetian where we greeted, took pictures and autographed photos.  We also had a little fun while we were there too, enjoying the beautiful pool and delicious cuisine.

hanging out in the cabana with Cynthia Choboian and Tiffany Yee

Diabetes Walk

Walking to find a cure 
September 11th


It was a beautiful day for a walk especially one for a good cause.  Beginning and ending at the Pepsi center, 9,000 people joined together to walk for Diabetic research which raised over 900,000.  I unfortunately have family members and friends effected by type 1 diabetes, every day they must test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times or use a pump – each day, every day of their lives.   It was nice to gather around a fellow titleholder and friend who has type 1 diabetes and show our support.  Erin Feltes is an inspiration and a great example of an optimistic outlook.  To find out how you can help or get involved visit:  http://www.diabetes.org/

with the beautiful Erin Feltes,

with fellow teammates Elisa Fowler, Erin Feltes, and Emily Stark

Loving Hugs

Botanical Gardens
September 8th

with Wendy Clark the founder of Loving hugs.

Loving Hugs is an organization bringing "Hugs" (stuffed animals) to children all over the world who have been affected by war, natural disaster, or poverty.  These children are given the gift of hope, love, and comfort when these stuffed animals arrive into their arms.   Wendy Clark is the amazing women who created and started the organization in 2007.  She has partnered with the  U. S. Navy, and also with other non-profit organizations who are helping get American’s “hugs”  to children in crisis situations all over the world.   I was honored to attend the event and give a helping hand.  I was also in attendance with my parents for this event, who enjoyed the silent auction and musical talents of "House of Soul". 

I had the pleasure of attending this event with my parents.

with two Girl Scouts who were attending another event but saw the crown and stopped to visit.

Project Style

 Style Off and Fashion Show

September 2nd

The only picture I was able to get with Mondo before the show started  because after everyone ran for cover from the torrential down pour.

Judges- Dana Kurts and Mondo

Judging with  Odell Stroud

This one has definitely been right up there as one of my favorite events.  I was asked to help judge the Style Off and Fashion Show event at Southlands Mall.  The concept was really fun and exciting and I had the opportunity to judge with Mondo from Project Runway and Odell Stroud.  Individuals who had the gift and talent of style were able to compete against each other on line.  Over the course of six weeks, votes were calculated and six winners were announced.  These six winners then went on to compete against each other for the final round at Southlands Mall.  The winner received a $1,000 gift card to the mall.
The Style Off began with an introduction of the contestants and a short description of their personality and personal style, then they were each given a gift card for $200.  The contestants had one hour to shop the entire outdoor mall and create a look from head to toe that would showcase their personal style all while staying under the $200.   During their shopping spree the judges and audience were entertained with dancers and updates on what to look for this fall in fashion.  As final judging drew near so did the storm clouds that had been hovering earlier in the day.  Unfortunately, the event was cut short due to a down pour.  A winner was quickly announced and everyone scattered for shelter.

Mondo giving us a heads up on what to look for this Fall.

some of the adorable models strutting their stuff on the runway.

the contestants showing their final looks.

The rain unfortunately put an abrupt end to the show.

Tea Party

 Senior Citizen Home
September 1st


with my mother-in-law, mother and other volunteers from the nursing home.


My mother and mother- in- law lead by example. These women are always doing for others and not just for their own family and friends, but those outside their inner circles.  They both volunteer at the Castle Rock Senior Citizen home.   They coordinate and encourage social activities every Thursday afternoon.  They have done everything from crafts, games, gift giving to themed parties.  They were organizing a tea party and thought it would be great for me to join in the fun.  I had the pleasure of meeting and mingling with some extraordinary individuals who have seen, lived, and experienced incredible events over the course of their lives.  They were so happy to share their adventures and reminisce with me, I also received many words of wisdom and advice for my own life.  I am so grateful for the afternoon I was able to spend with them all.

Joe and I had a really good visit, he used to be a musician and school teacher.

with my mother and a good friend of our family, Stephanie.

Celebrity Waiter

Concert for KidsAugust 27th

Walter Isenberg with his wife Christie, who is the founder and director for Concert for Kids.

No I do not consider myself a celebrity, but nevertheless I was invited to attend the Celebrity Waiter event which helped to raise money and awareness for Concert for Kids, which helps local children's charities.  They proudly support over 40 children's charities with a primary focus on health care and education.  It was a crazy night at Shanahan's Restaurant with the wait staff dressing up in costumes, dancing and singing for donations, and a few local firefighters there willing to take off their shirts for the cause.  I fortunately was able to stay clothed and save myself from the embarrassment of sharing my gorgeous singing voice.  I greeted patrons as they entered and visited with the staff.  I was the hostess with the mostess!

with some amazing people who are making a difference.

with some of the beautiful patrons of the evening.

Happy to have run into some family members at this event. Pipr and Bret Ames

One lucky lady being attended to by the firemen dressed in their very best!

What a fun night and all for an organization doing great things for our children in the community!!

Wine and Wishes

Make A Wish
August, 25th
I have donated to Make A Wish for some time and was eager to see how I could get involved further as Mrs. Colorado.  Make A Wish grants wishes to children with life threatening medical conditions.   I receive the news letters and love reading about the granted wishes and how it effected their lives and sometimes even their treatments.
They invited me to attend their annual event "Wine and Wishes".  Held at the beautiful Cable Center on the DU Campus, guests were encouraged to bid on the many fabulous auction items, dine on delicacies, and meet some of the children who had enjoyed having wishes granted.

with my mother in law, Marcia, and date for the evening.



with Josh and his new puppy Venus. His wish for a furry companion was granted only a few weeks prior to the event.

I was put in charge of the wine wall.  We had 125 bottles of variously priced wines donated and individually wrapped and put on display for people to purchase.  My partner, Sofia and I  sold each and every one which helped grant 1/2 of a wish for a child.  It was a spectacular night that I was proud to be a part of.

with Sofia, a volunteer and Wish Granter.

 

Salt on the Rim

Kempe FoundationAugust, 20th

The Kempe foundation is a non profit organization which helps to treat and give hope to neglected and abused children.  I have a soft spot for any and all organizations children based, so of course I jumped at the chance to attend the Salt on the Rim fundraising event which took place at Kent Denver.  It was a gorgeous evening with many generous sponsors, delicious food and music provided by Soul School.  The event was a huge success which raised over $40,000.  For more information or how you can get involved visit:  www.kempe.org

with Sharon Schonaut a wonderful volunteer

with my date for the evening and best friend, Becca Smith (The gown is from Kim's Closet)

with some of the co-Chairs Paul, John, Lawrence and Gregory

Mrs. Colorado Sponsors

Obviously becoming Mrs. Colorado has many perks, having a platform to get out into the community, creating new relationships, rediscovery, gaining queen sisters, the list goes on and on but as Mrs. Colorado you also gain a team of experts.  Believe me it takes a team of highly trained professionals to keep this train moving, without the amazing and generous sponsors it would be more difficult for me to get my job done and look good while doing it.

 

Here are some of the sponsors that I would encourage you to support.

 

Megan Anderson with Graphique Photography

http://graphiquephoto.com/

 I love working with Megan and her creative talents are endless.  We have shot some amazing images together.

One of my ad pages from last year



another ad page from last year, my personal favorite.

 

DJ and Courtney with Timothy D's Salon   

 303-744-6444

Masters at coloring, cuts, and extensions.  He is the up do master!

with my fabulous Great Length extentions



DJ showing off Christina Sacha's beautiful updo.



 

Kari Kisch my makeup guru

720-233-5652

Looking for a flawless finish, a lesson, or have a special occasion Kari is phenomenal at what she does.  She has used her magic brushes on me for the past three years during competition and I have also used her for photo shoots and special appearances where my raw talent just wasn't enough.

 



Amy Nakos with Mind Redesign  

 http://www.mindredesign.com/

I worked with Amy before winning Mrs. Colorado about some internal feelings that I felt were holding me back from success.  I believe working through those issues  with her and her techniques contributed to not only winning Mrs. Colorado but also receiving 2nd runner up at Mrs. America.

 

Raj Terkonda with Longmont Clinic

303-494-3114

Dr. Terkonda and his staff are wonderful and my skin has never looked better.

 

Tiffnay Yee (Ms. Fitness USA) with Body Statement Gym

http://www.bodystatementgym.com/

This is a sponsor who so graciously jumped on board after I went to Mrs. America.  I went to her asking for help after gaining 10 pounds, yes that is right 10 pounds, a few months after competing at Mrs. America.  After being so diligent with workouts and eating clean leading up to Mrs. Colorado and Mrs. America, then returning to a very complex and busy schedule of appearances and family life, I burnt out and something had to give and of course workouts and eating right was the easiest thing to put on the back burner.  I am proud to say that I am taking back control and excited for the transformation.  Stay tuned for before and after photos!

 

Kim with Kim's Closet

303-741-2214

Located in Timothy D's salon you will find a vast selection of gowns, accessories, and unique clothing.  She has dressed me for many of my formal appearances.

Gale Love with Love Skin Care
http://www.loveskincarecenter.com/about-us/
With attention to detail Ms. Love specializes in spa and medical treatments.  I love the way I feel after a visit with Gale.

Abby Richardson with Solera Salon

303-408-7107

Abby takes care of my hands and my feet with regular manicures and pedicures.  I have never had a nail color stay on my nails longer than a week or two, I don't know how she does it but I have lasted almost a month with no chips or fading.

 

Raeanne Smith with Royal Image Boutique

http://www.royalimageboutique.com/

Looking for a special occasion gown, accessories, or just some sassy everyday wear then you need to check out this boutique.  She has an amazing selection of pageant, prom and special occasion gowns.

 

 

Alicia Ryan for everything beautiful

www.alichiaryan.com

Alicia gave me the gift of lashes before heading to Mrs. America.   It was fabulous to have natural, full, and gorgeous lashes heading out to compete for 15 days.  I never had to worry about putting on fake ones, glue, or even mascara.   She also specializes in makeup, waxing, hydrafacials, and spray tanning.

   

Women's Build

Habitat for Humanity
August,  20th
When I was at Mrs. America we all participated in a Women's Build for Habitat for Humanity.  It was an extremely rewarding experience for me and I had vowed that when I returned home I was going to team up with the Colorado Habitat and create a Women's Build.  I mentioned my idea to Emily, our Mrs.. Colorado director, and she too loved the idea and said she would help gather current titleholders to help out my efforts.  I am so grateful to the gals who came out for the day and from all over Colorado.  We managed to put up insulation, help with dry wall preparations, and even some of the braver ladies headed to the roof to secure the framing.  Thank you ladies for making it possible!!  Looking forward to our next build.

with my niece, Shalie, dad and step mom. They stopped by our job site for a quick visit.

with Rita Case

Jen Rindahl

Erin Feltes putting up insulation.



The girls hard at work moving dry wall around.



Emily Stark prepping for dry wall.

Valentina Anderson getting down and dirty.



Our hard working crew!



Queen for a Day

August 8th
I have been looking forward to attending a Children's Hospital event since the moment I was crowned.  This is usually a hands down favorite and I knew I would feel the same.  Having three children of my own I could only anticipate how I would be touched.  I have been blessed to have only used the facility for my own purposes for a minor surgery a few years ago to get my son's adenoids removed.   I remember looking around at the other parents walking around the hospital and realizing that for some of them this is a daily occurrence.  
I was given the opportunity to come and celebrate "Queen for a Day" with all the children.  I was accompanied by Tori and Ashley (Miss Colorado Teen World and JR Miss Colorado World) and some wonderful men in uniform, firefighters from the local precinct.
We greeted, took pictures, created crafts, and crowned our own little princesses.  The children had an amazing time and for one moment I think they forgot where they were and why they were in the hospital.  The smiles made your heart melt and the excitement made it all worth everyone's efforts.  I also had a chance to visit a floor of children who were in the hospital for various reasons.  We were greeted by big smiles and appreciative families.
I am looking forward to volunteering my time again in the near future and even collaborating with Children's to create new event ideas.

with Tori, Miss Teen Colorado World and Ashley, Jr Miss Colorado World.

I will post more pictures of the days events when I receive them from the photographer.

Queen's BBQ

August 6th

Every year at the end of summer it is tradition that the Mrs. Colorado queens get together for a BBQ.  This is different than the annual Christmas party because the husbands are invited to enjoy the festivities as well.  Unfortunately for me, my guy was traveling and missed out on our first debut as Mrs and Mr. Colorado.  It was great to see everyone who attended the party and catch up on all the  happenings over summer break.   Christina Sacha (2008) was a gracious host.   I am looking forward to the next get together which is during the holidays.



with Megan, Traci, Marney, Christina, Jennifer, Sharon, Tricia, Elizabeth, and Emily



Back to school

August 1st
Where did summer go?  I feel like right when we settled into the idea of longer evenings and pool parties it was once again time to switch gears and begin preparations for "Back to school".  We did not even have two full months off for summer vacation being on a modified traditional schedule.  I am not used to seeing pool toys and school supplies sold in conjunction, it just feels wrong.  
I think a part of me would not have been ready even if it were the more traditional three months off, I am not emotionally ready to send all three of my little ones back to school.  My baby is a kindergartner this year, which means they have all entered elementary school.  They of course are ecstatic, to see friends, to be in a new grade, and to be back on a schedule.
The days, seasons, and years seem to be passing by quicker and quicker, as my grandmother always says they do the older you get.  As I have mentioned before in earlier posts, I am thrilled that they are all doing so well and growing into wonderful individuals, but a part of me is feeling the conclusion of a season.  A season that I happen to love very much!  I am excited to see what the new chapter holds, what will be my next adventure, only time will tell.



My sweet little ones on their first day of school. The signs are tradition in our family and go way back, thanks mom.