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Miss Texas Blog

June 23, 2010
I have pet live armadillos.

I have driven 30,000 miles in six months.

I have met athletic icons such as Roger Staubach, Nolan Ryan, and Daryl Johnson.

I have met with senators and congressmen and women of our great state.

I’ve seen a pig scramble.

I have eaten some of the best fried-pickles, barbecue, and Tex-Mex Texas has to offer.

I have sung at the end of a sidewalk adorned with American flags, in honor of the men and women who in one way, or in every way given their lives to our country.

I have taken pictures with camels, steers, turkeys, longhorns, lobsters, pancakes, sundaes, flat Stanleys, and of course, people.

I have auctioned off bushels of sweet potatoes.

I have competed on the one and only Miss America stage.

I have sung “Somewhere over the Rainbow” while accompanied on piano by a gentleman who is both blind and autistic, and nothing short of an incredible inspiration.

I have been given several second to third grade boys’ phone numbers, one of which was labeled “mom cell.”

I have seen a man walking a parrot outside of a Sonic.

I have sung “The Climb” with a chorus of 500 elementary-aged children, about 70 times.

I have shared my story and my passion with over 50,000 students.

I am Miss Texas 2009, and I have experienced a lifetime’s worth of memories in just one year.

There are few short days left until that “2009” at the end of the title is truly important.  Until then, I still get to respond to “Miss Texas.”  It’s impossible to describe each and every thought that has gone through my mind this year, listed above are just a few of thousands.  As much as I thought about every detail and memory of this year, I realized that it still never really sank in.  I never woke up feeling like Rebecca Robinson, Molly Hazlett or Shilah Phillips, or all of the other Miss Texas’s who I’ve looked up to.  I’m still just Kristen. Kristen, who happens to have the coolest job in the whole world for exactly one year. As I think of all of the beautiful and talented ladies gearing up for 2010 Miss Texas competition, I am reminded of just how lucky and blessed I am to have been the last one standing last summer. 

So much has happened in these last couple of months—there hasn’t been much time to let it all catch up.  In May, I took a week reprieve from my Miss Texas duties to recover from lasik eye surgery provided by Dr. Carter in Dallas.  I have worn glasses since third grade and contacts since sixth.  I had heard a lot about lasik, but never dreamed I would ever be able to afford it.  In just a brief procedure my life changed and I went from being legally blind to having 20/20 vision.  Thank you so much to Dr. Carter for truly making a dream come true!  After my recovery it was back to work, and in the week following I drove over 2,500 miles in three days, then hopped on a plane to Corpus Christi for two days with the American Heart Association.  Carol made lots of time for my favorite Miss Texas duty--schools!  We have some of the greatest schools here in Texas, many of which are in the smallest towns.  They all have one thing in common though, great teachers and great students.  Thank you to everyone who invited me to your school this year.  It has been the greatest joy imaginable.  Our future is in great hands!

Near the end of May I invited all of the Miss Texas Traveling Companions over for a thank you party.  It was my first time hosting any kind of event, and with much help from my mom, the Fuqua family, and my boyfriend Eric, it was a wonderful night celebrating a great year with my new extended family that made it all happen.  I am so overwhelmed when I think of how many people made this year possible.  Thank you for all of the wonderful memories.

June has so far consisted of appearances, rehearsals, production recordings, and pageant-promo interviews, with spurts of time spent trying to move into my post-Miss Texas life in between.  It has taken me about seven trips to move all of my belongings from the apartment back home to Southlake.  About three of those trips were my new shoe and wardrobe inheritance.  I’ve been joking that I’m going to wear pantsuits and cocktail dresses to UNT in the fall. I expected moving to be a time of reflection, but I ‘m surprised by some of the feelings that were stirred up.  People have been asking if I’m sad the year’s over.  I have to say that my sadness of the year having gone so quickly is overwhelmed by this great hope that the next Miss Texas enjoys it as much as I did.  I remember having dinner with my local directors, Keith and Ron, about three months after I was crowned.  At one point Keith just looked at me, smiled and said, “you’re a completely different girl.”  I didn’t really see it then, but now I realize just how right he was.  People often say everyone you meet has an impact on your life and statistically speaking, there are a lot of people in Texas!  I’ve met so many wonderful people this year it only makes sense that an overall impact like that would change me.  It has been the greatest year of my life thus far and the greatest thing I’ve learned is that the best is yet to come.  I have no regrets, just joyful memories and the knowledge that I truly savored every second of this time.  That alone is so much more than I could ever ask for.  I am, and always will feel like the luckiest girl in Texas thanks to all of you.  Thank you for the experience of a thousand lifetimes, and thank you to the legacy that is Miss Texas for continuing to inspire other lucky young women, and daring them to dream larger than life. 

Winners are dreamers who never give up.

With endless love and gratitude,

Kristen
Miss Texas 2009

April 29, 2010
Spring has sprung! (after some serious effort…)

As Taylor and I sat in the Baseball Diamonds suite enjoying opening day for the Rangers and for baseball fans across the globe, it hit us that we only have three months left until someone new is sitting underneath these crowns.  It came as a surprise, yet one that made sense; these last few months have just been flying by.  We found ourselves with a new determination to simply enjoy the remaining time and take every moment in, as we recognize that each day is a countdown and this journey unfolds.

For some reason, every spring I convince myself things will slow down.  It should come as no surprise that in a year as Miss Texas, spring only gets busier than ever!  March had some wonderful school visits in store, several events with some of our wonderful Miss Texas sponsors, the Carrollton Special Olympics, an afternoon with some of Dallas’s classiest ladies of the Women’s International Society. In addition, there was a visit to Hearne for the Robertson County Fair Queen pageant, where I had my first ever experience judging a pageant.  I tell you what, if Miss Texas is half as hard to judge as it was for those ladies (and I’m beyond sure it is!)  I couldn’t touch it with a ten-foot pole!  All of the ladies running for Fair queen were so articulate, beautiful, and perhaps above all, dedicated!  I thought I was busy in high school and these ladies put me to shame with their academics and Fair activities.  The rest of the Robertson County community is no different.  Laura and the rest of the Templeton family were some of the most hospitable people I’ve met this year.  After a full morning and afternoon of interviews (and lots of great food!) we went to their beautiful home where Mr. Templeton cooked us a five-star meal consisting of the best shrimp and BIGGEST steaks I’ve ever eaten.  We left Hearne very excited for their newly crowned queen, with new friends in the Templeton family, and with extremely overstuffed but happy bellies.

On top of the Easter holiday and warmer weather, spring means something else for the Miss Texas Organization: Spring Meeting!  It was a busy weekend for all the contestants, with meetings beginning on Friday night, rehearsals all day on Saturday, and a brunch on Sunday.  I was shocked to find some familiar friendly faces there.  Thank you so much to Rick Brinkley, Art McMaster, and Marc Angeli for flying down to attend.  It was so special to have you here in Texas, and so great to see you again!  Their presence, along with all the exciting talk of the 75th Celebration left everyone feeling pumped up for a great pageant this July!  As we start gearing up for a new pageant, and ultimately, a new Miss Texas, I can’t help but think of some of the things I either wish I’d known, or was extremely grateful to have learned by this time last year.  There is an incredible group of contestants this year, which makes for a tough competition!  I’d like to share a countdown of a few “bits and pieces” of advice that certainly helped me along the way in my own Miss Texas journey:

#5 - Spend this time (meaning now!) getting ready for the job, not just the pageant.  Amazingly enough, keeping yourself busy, developing time management skills, going out and speaking to schools and civic organizations, are all great prep for the pageant too.  Most importantly, when it’s your first month as Miss Texas and you are asked to speak in front of a group of about 400 community leaders as a keynote speaker, don’t freak out! You’ll be ready.

#4 - Find your “Achilles heel.”  We all have something to improve on.  In a pageant, those things become categorized: talent, interview, fitness (swimsuit), and poise (evening gown).  If you know you are strong in one area, do not count on it to overrule a weakness in another.  It took me a while to learn this.  I always loved talent competition and let fitness in swimsuit play second fiddle.  When I finally saw the big picture and treated every phase in competition equally (regardless of scoring), I felt that confidence in my preparation carried me through all phases of competition.

#3 - Surround yourself with only the positive.  Goodness knows we are all hard enough on ourselves!  If you surround yourself with non-constructive critics or even those who lack of giving praise, we find it hard to come by on our own.  If someone says something negative about your wardrobe, talent, even you, counteract it by stating or just thinking of all the things you love about it. (Thanks Heather at Mental Management for this one!)  If you feel you’re not being given the praise from where it is due, you simply have to come up with it on your own.  It’s hard at first, but sometimes a well-deserved pat on the back, or even treating yourself to something you enjoy is needed and very much deserved!

#2 - BE positive.  How many times have we all thought or said, “I hate my hair….” or “I messed that up!” ?  I know how hard it can be to catch myself before saying something negative, but those thoughts and words not only bring us down, but the people around us.  As soon as you speak out on your own appearance or mistakes, it causes the person you’re with to think of their own, it’s true!  If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say it at all.

#1 - Be FLEXIBLE and GRACIOUS.  This is the summation of all of the above.  Some of you may have read earlier that I competed one year in Washington State as Miss Tri-Cities.  “Flexible and gracious” was my director’s mantra.  I had no idea how important it really was until this year.  Even at Miss Texas week, schedules may change, days get long, and people get tired.  Imagine that every day for a year and that’s the job you’re applying for!  You may be tired, don’t show it. You may be frustrated, don’t say it.  Just comment on how great all the productions will be after all the hard work in rehearsals, and how the lack of sleep is only for a week, and for one of the greatest weeks of your life at that!  Be flexible to change, and gracious to all.

As I find myself making plans for “life after Miss Texas,” I also find myself still in awe of just how great a privilege this all is, and hoping that the next Miss Texas will know the same.  Yes, we work hard to get here, and to win a pageant, but our success stands on the legs of those who built this program and your journey from the ground up.  Men and women like B. Don Magness, Jean Magness, Carol Fuller, all of the Miss Texas board and all of your local directors.  If you recognize that, you will recognize that great gift that is just ahead of you: The Miss Texas Pageant!  Think of how many women have competed for the title, think of the 74 that have been crowned.  Think of those who didn’t compete, or wanted to and could not.  You are a select few, representing a great state. That in itself is worth a standing ovation.  Contestants, thank you for your hard work, support, and dedication.  While I know it will be so hard to see the end of this year as Miss Texas 2009, it fills me with great pride and gratitude knowing that it will all be passed on to one of you.

With much love,
Kristen

March 8, 2010
As we near the end of the winter season, February has turned out to be a headfirst dive back into the job of Miss Texas after Miss America. When Carol dropped me off at my apartment that Sunday, we wheeled all six bags into the living room. She then handed me the keys to my new car (Holiday traded out the Traverse because I managed to put over 30,000 miles on it in the first six months) and a large manila envelope packed full of itineraries for the month. Four days later, I was on the road once more and was very excited to be visiting quite a few schools this month. Visiting schools across the state is definitely my favorite part of the job. It’s amazing to think just how many students I’ve had the privilege to meet and the greatest joy comes from revisiting a town and being visited by a handful of students who heard my program and remembered meeting Miss Texas! I also met some incredible college students at Lon Morris College. Lon Morris is a scholarship sponsor for Miss Texas, and let me just say… “Wow!” First off, the campus is beautiful, and the staff consists of some of the kindest, most gracious, and faith-driven people I’ve met this year. It was a wonderful day visiting with their students during the day, and sharing dinner with some of the campus leaders that evening.

Near the end of February, I attended the high school District Pilot Convention in Beaumont. This was a huge event with some of the best of the best in high school leaders. The volunteers and Pilot leaders were telling me about another guest speaker attending that weekend named Sean. At the age of 21, Sean was at the peak of an aspiring modeling career when he made the decision to get into a car with a drunk driver. The car spun out of control and into a tree…on the passenger side where Sean was sitting. On top of the many broken bones and injuries, time proved that Sean’s brain was so severely damaged that he couldn’t speak, walk, or even make eye contact. The driver in the meantime, walked away from the accident. While recovering in the hospital, the muscles in Sean’s neck atrophied so greatly that he could not even hold up his own head to eat. Four years later, Sean still suffers from his brain injury. But “suffer” is hardly the right word. I met the now 25-year-old Sean that evening and was instantly in awe. He has a new chair that can sit him down or stand him up. He even has a computer that speaks for him. He has some use of his arms and hands and is even regaining the use of his legs and feet to walk with assistance. Best yet, he has a smile that will knock your socks off! We talked for a bit through his computer. It didn’t take long for me to realize that Sean is just another 25-year-old trying to make his way in the world, only now that ambition has been greatly altered from what it was four years ago. He and his mother have been working towards a speaking tour against drunk driving and promoting brain injury research. I have no question and every hope that his optimism, kindness, and charisma will take him and his message far beyond the state of Texas. His determination to speak and walk again is enough to change any heart. Please visit www.whenseanspeaks.com to find out more about Sean, a true survivor, role model, and hero.

Life is good…more than good. I find myself with a renewed awe for all of the incredible things still in store for me this year. I know these next few months will probably go by twice as fast, but I’m determined to take in each day for the unforgettable experience that it is. Thanks again to all of you who make it possible!

Love,
Kristen

February 8, 2010
Never underestimate the power of inspiration.

Ten years ago in the summer of 2000, I walked onstage to accept a trophy at the Waterfollies Talent Show in Kennewick, Washington.  Handing out the awards that year was a beautiful young woman with a crown.  She was the newly-crowned Miss Tri-Cities.  I remember nervously accepting my trophy from this stunning beauty queen, feeling exceptionally frumpy standing next to her for pictures in her beautiful gown and me in my awkward, and slightly chunky 13-year old body.  I found myself grateful to walk offstage and out of the limelight when a beautiful. redheaded woman approached me and called me by name. “Kristen,  my name is Dot Stewart and I am the executive director of the Miss Tri-Cities Scholarship pageant.  I just wanted to tell you how very talented you are, and that I hope you will consider competing someday for Miss Tri-Cities.”   As she walked away, I stood there paralyzed with shock.  Did she just suggest what I think she suggested?  I regained my composure and sort of shrugged it off—but in my head those words were burning, “competing…Miss Tri-Cities…pageant…” As I left for the parking lot with my family and climbed into the car, I couldn’t help but let my thoughts blurt out loud. “So this is kinda weird, but this lady came up to me and suggested I run for Miss Tri-Cities.”  My dad’s response shocked me.  “How cool!  I think that’s a great idea!” He proceeded to discuss when I could compete, how I’d likely have to wait until after high school, etc.  I could barely listen though; I tried to picture myself as the girl wearing the beautiful dress and crown handing out trophies.  “No way…” I laughed to myself. “That will never be me.”

Ten years later, I found myself not only with an even bigger crown of my very own, but preparing for the pinnacle of it all—the Miss America Pageant.  Talk of Miss America began right after I was crowned Miss Texas.  I began Mental Management training with Lanny Bassham and Heather Sumlin, weekly voice lessons with my good friend and brilliant coach, Brian Schexnayder, evening and talent gown designing with Ashley Lenz and Jennifer McCoy at Lenz boutique, and maintaining a health and fitness regimen with another dear friend, Larkin Page.  As months drew closer, I was singing through my talent daily, visiting Ashley and Jennifer often for fittings into my dream-gowns, keeping a clear mind and heart with Heather, and whipping myself into better shape than I’d ever been in with Larkin’s tough-love.  This was followed by a week of shopping with Momma Jean for some of the most incredible outfits and shoes I could ever dream of, and a trip to Wal-Mart to buy a small coffee pot to keep me caffeinated in Las Vegas.  After finally packing until 1:00 AM (or should I say watching as Momma Jean worked her packing-miracles by fitting everything into six suitcases), I was ready to go!

When Keith and Ron dropped me off at the airport that morning, I was pumped up and ready to get there.  As I sat on the plane however, massive amounts of butterflies began to swarm in my stomach.   I’ve traveled to Vegas to watch Miss America every year since I was Miss Tri-Cities—nearly five years ago.  And how often had I looked at that stage and the incredible women that graced it and wondered if that would ever be me?  I knew only one of them each year gets to be Miss America, but I looked up to all of them.  And now, somehow I was given that chance and it was my turn.  I thought I’d have unceasing confidence and grace and poise should that day ever come, yet I found myself nervous, unsure of what awaited me when I would step off the plane.  As soon as I arrived at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino, an incredible calm and an air of excitement washed over me. I was at Miss America!

Never in my life have 10 days gone by so quickly.  And let’s just say they were the greatest, most exciting (and exhausting) 10 days of my life.  Each day was jam-packed. Meeting at the elevator each morning about 7:15 for production number rehearsals, lunch at noon, followed by more rehearsals, and then about 45 minutes to change for whatever big event we were all headed to that evening.  And interspersed throughout was filming for TLC.  Each day we packed about three outfits into a carryon bag because we never returned to our rooms before bedtime.  I was thrilled to see they had a full coffee bar at each rehearsal, and in between groups we would all get to sit and visit over coffee, nap, or try to get a workout in.

I had heard that girls form life-long friendships at Miss America, and I am so happy to say that it couldn’t be more true.  When 52 women with the same goals, dreams, and aspirations surround you, you can’t help but feel like you could have known some of them your entire life.  I was lucky enough to have one of my best friends on this journey with me from the very beginning.  Nicole Miner, Miss New Mexico, has been one of my closest friends at UNT, especially this last year as we prepared for our state pageants.  What are the odds that we would get to live our dream together! It was like having a piece of home with me everywhere we went in Las Vegas.  I was also ecstatic to be rooming with Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus.  I adored Erica when I met her in Orlando.  I remember a huge chunk of her crown broke off at a big fundraising event we were at when I jokingly asked her “Which point did you lose?”  She replied, “I guess ‘style’!!”  (Only MAO folks will understand this!)  I felt a friendship with her back in October and feel so lucky to have shared our Miss America experience together as roommates.  We’d wake each other up in the mornings after only five hours of sleep, get snacks from the hospitality room to make sure the other ate something while getting ready in the morning, and share words from our friends and loved ones as we read our cards out loud (These cards meant the WORLD to me!  Thank you to everyone for the wonderful notes!). The fabulous Miss Maryland, Brooke Poklemba, became another close friend.  I’m not exactly sure when it was that we first hit it off (it may have been when I told her I had a coffee-maker), but we always seemed to be in close vicinity, including our mirrors being right across from each other in the famous dressing-tent outside the theatre.  We were almost always grazing the snack table or laughing…or both, but no matter what, I always loved being around her.  Miss Nevada, Christina Keegan was a constant pillar of kindness and encouragement, not just to me but to all of the contestants.  I remember thinking she truly has the heart of a Miss America!  I could go on forever about all 52 contestants, because really and truly, they were all so incredible.  The friendships formed with them, the wonderful hostesses, the backstage crew, and production staff are absolutely priceless to me, and I will never forget how blessed I am to have lived this experience with them.

As the final day came upon us, adrenaline was wearing out and exhaustion was setting in.  As we blocked camera angles that Saturday morning, girls were passed out all over the purple couches and stairs that dressed the stage.  When the time came to get ready however, it was like the first day all over again.  Excitement washed over the whole tent as we all said prayers, gave hugs, and realized that 53 dreams were about to come true in a matter of hours.  It suddenly dawned on me that the judges’ job should be considered easy; any of these girls would make an incredible Miss America.  No matter who it was, we were all about to experience what 13,000 women had dreamed of this last year as they competed in the Miss America system.  We were the lucky few to have been given the opportunity this one time, this one year.  We took our places on the stage as the screams and cheers from the audience all converged into one ripping sound that tore across the stage into my racing heart.  The first chords of “I’ve Gotta Feeling” rang out, and the greatest two hours of my life began.”  My legs shook so hard I had to consciously tell myself how to stand as they announced the top 15, and I stepped out onto the stage as the 13th name called out.  The rest happened so quickly there was no time to be nervous. I just remember the overwhelming gratitude each time I heard Mario Lopez say “Miss Texas!” and how wonderful it felt to sing “Doretta’s Golden Dream” one last time.  My voice felt threadbare, my body shook with exhaustion, yet never have I been more proud of a performance in my life.  As the night came to a close, and the beautiful and incredibly talented Caressa Cameron, Miss Virginia, was crowned Miss America, my feet came back down to earth, and I realized what an incredible blessing I’d just been granted.  I couldn’t have asked for more and wouldn't have changed a thing. I got everything I wanted and dreamed of in Vegas that night. I was going home to a place I knew and loved, to a family that came out to cheer my way into the Miss America top 10, and beloved friends that made their way out to Vegas too.  Visitation was overwhelming in the best way possible.  If I had been given a lifetime it wouldn’t have been long enough to hug on everyone as long as I wanted to.  This journey was the greatest of my life, and the greatest part is that not once did I walk it alone.  To everyone who came to Las Vegas, thank you from the very bottom of my heart.  To those who cheered from their living rooms, thank you, and know that I had the experience of a thousand lifetimes there on the Miss America stage.

When I returned to my familiar home at the Miss Texas apartment, I threw on some pajamas, climbed into bed, ate a squished Otis Spunkmeyer muffin out of my purse for dinner, and slept for 18 hours straight. It will be a while before my head stops spinning.  Something in me changed in those 10 days in Vegas. As my Miss America journey is lived out in these last five months as Miss Texas, I realize that new goals and dreams will fill that void but never take its place.  Each director, board member, contestant, friend, family member, and appearance, has changed my life for the greater and made me who I was before Miss America, and who I am today.  I have a new confidence from living a dream fulfilled at Miss America, and I owe it to everyone who has touched my life in every small and great way.  Thank you for making a dream that a 13-year-old girl couldn’t dare to imagine—the reality of a 23-year-old who, because of you, is dreaming even bigger now!

God bless!
Kristen

December 5, 2009
November may have been the quickest month yet. With the bustle of the oncoming holidays in the air, it’s as though Christmas has been “right around the corner” since Halloween. I had to put the brakes on to remind myself that I hadn’t even made it to Thanksgiving yet. I spent Thanksgiving at my cousin’s home with over 30 relatives. The loving chaos brought me back to my wonderful roots and was a breath of fresh air. While shopping for some early-bird special Christmas décor, my recently married cousin explained to me how her husband was already so excited for Christmas he was pushing to start decorating. After she’d reached her limit, she finally told him, “We have to be thankful first!” It got me thinking, we spend a whole month and a half getting ready for Christmas, yet only a day giving thanks. I wanted to list a just few of the many blessings in my life this past month.

My family
I am one of those lucky girls who can say my mom is my best friend, my brother and I share this unspoken humor that no one else understands, and I am and always will be dad’s “princess”. To my aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins, you are all so loving and supportive it is just like having a ridiculously huge immediate family.  Of all the blessings in my life, my family is my greatest (and biggest!).

My Miss Texas family
I say that because to me, they are no longer the “Miss Texas Board,” but truly family. I’m overwhelmed when I think about how many people put in so many hours, resources, and other countless acts of generosity and love, to make this year possible for just one person. All of the traveling companions have enriched my life in so many ways. Whether it’s romping around in a cotton field in Wellington, Texas after several school programs and getting honked at by passers by, or being fed homemade stew, cornbread, and pecan pie, before a good nights rest and a day at Mineral Wells High School, I have so many treasured memories with each of you.

My friends
Even though it’s few and far between that we get to see each other nowadays, just knowing you are part of my life completes each day, every day.

Sabrina
In early November, I attended the Crohn’s and Colitis “Putt for a Purpose” Golf Tournament.  I was thrilled to see that Steve, Tonya, Sabrina, and little sister Courtney all came out for the evening. Meeting Sabrina last year is one of the single greatest things that has ever happened to me. I knew from the moment I met her that Sabrina was a very special young lady, but I knew nothing about Crohn’s disease. After some research, I thought it was just a major discomfort at its worst. All of that was turned upside-down when Sabrina had emergency surgery last spring. Every time I see her, I’m reminded just what a miracle she is, what a blessing her entire family has been in my journey, and how I found a new purpose in spreading the word to support finding a cure.

School
I was very excited to participate in my first event with the University of North Texas. I still consider being a part of the UNT School of Music one of the greatest accomplishments in my life. I sang the National Anthem at the Murphy Center Entrepreneurship Luncheon, where Dallas Cowboy legend Roger Staubach was the keynote speaker. After three years of living in the music school at UNT, I forgot just how many great opportunities lie within any college education. I left this event with a whole new reason to be proud to be Mean Green. I also attended the TCU Reading Bee Championships. These second graders from across Texas had some mad skills! Last year’s winner was at a college-sophomore reading level. It was an honor to be surrounded by so many champions, and very exciting to know that so many schools across our great state are providing such exceptional education. Who knows? I may have met the future President of the United States!

Life continues to unfold countless blessings. Five months later, I still wake up in the morning, completely awed by what I get to do each day. Thank you to everyone from the bottom of my heart. Odds are if you are reading this, you have touched my life in some way. Here’s to many more blessings and adventures.

Love,
Kristen

November 11, 2009
It's a beautiful and sunny—yet crisp—November morning. I’m in Central Texas, sitting on a raised black platform, facing row after row of white folding chairs filled with mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, daughters, sons, soldiers, and veterans. The whole scene is surrounded by two seemingly endless rows of American flags, all flying at half-mast. As I sit in my assigned seat among Congressmen and representatives of the State of Texas, I’m suddenly aware of the magnitude of the moment. I’m looking at the faces of brave service men and women who proudly served our country and returned home, as well as the families and loved ones of some who did not. We sit in silent thought and prayer, looking out at the flags, with particular thoughts of those men and women who recently lost their lives at Fort Hood. Though it had been a humbling and grave week, we hadn’t gathered to mourn; but rather to remember, celebrate, and cherish. The atmosphere around me—one filled with pride, patriotism, love and remembrance—was an affirmation that we truly live in a great country full of heroes. I was invited to take part in two Veteran’s Day programs to perform our National Anthem, and I’ve never been more proud to sing it. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to our veterans and our soldiers for what you’ve given, and continue to give us all.

I know I keep saying how quickly time is going by, but I truly catch myself looking back and wishing it would slow down so that I could take in every second even more than I have.  I think my head has finally stopped spinning after 43 appearances over 31 days during October. J What a wonderful month it was though!  It’s amazing how much you learn when you attend so many different types of events.  Here are just a few highlights:

• Red Ribbon Week
  This event may be something that students sit through year after year.  But if just one day of one of those weeks during one of those years helps one student make the right decision when confronted with drugs and alcohol every single one of those days is worth it.

• School Appearances
  No matter how many schools (elementary, middle, and senior high) I speak at, I still get nervous hoping that I can reach even a handful of students. When they ask questions afterwards about college, success, and trial and error, I somehow know I succeeded.

• Rockdale Fair
  The weekend was full of barbecue, great music, and small-town Texas spirit. The main event after the livestock sale was the annual pig scramble, where all the piglets and children were greased up, and released into a big pen. The first child who caught a piglet and brought it back to the gate was the winner.

• Czech Feszt
  There is absolutely no graceful way to eat a turkey leg.  At this festival in Temple, I tried using a knife and fork in a poor attempt to save some dignity.  I failed epically, but deliciously!

• Questions
  Big children—as well as little ones—are intrigued by how the Miss Texas crown stays on my head, whether or not the “diamonds” in the crown are real, what kind of car I drive, and whether or not I have a boyfriend.

This month has been filled with both heartwarming and heart-wrenching moments. I wish that everyone could see the things that I have during the past month—the kindness, hospitality, pride, patriotism, and all around sense of community that makes both our state and our nation so great. God truly blessed America—and Texas too.

I am indeed still the luckiest gal in Texas!

Best wishes and much Thanksgiving,
Kristen

October 6, 2009
On occasion, people will ask, “What inspires you?” After tonight, the answer is simple: Batman.  “Batman?” you might ask. Yes. And I will tell you why.

About three years ago, I was at a Christmas party for The Arc as Miss Southlake. There was dancing, music, colorful decorations, even a large group of Marvel Comic superheroes in attendance. I was particularly excited to see Batman, and was thrilled to have a picture taken with him. It’s a picture I still have in my scrapbook today.

Tonight, I was at Methodist Medical Center’s National Night Out, and was excited to see that the Marvel Comic Superheroes were in attendance as well! The night began and up walked a handsome man in a Batman shirt asking for my autograph. Something was familiar about his face (well…the bottom half of it anyway) and I excitedly asked him, “Are you Batman?” He looked up at me strangely and said, “How did you know?” And I explained how I met him three years before. He told me that we needed to get another picture together before the night ended, and I anxiously agreed. We managed to sneak one in between all of the autographs, pictures, and hugs for the kids that night. As the night was ending, Batman was back in his t-shirt and jeans once again. He came up and handed me his business card. On it was written “KIT 2 4, heroes for him”. Before I could ask what it meant, he explained. “We named our team after a little boy named Christopher who died of cancer. When Christopher was asked what his name was, he would reply ’Kit-to-for’.” Batman then took my hand and onto my pinky finger slipped a plastic yellow ring with the infamous Bat symbol and said, “He was my son.” I stared at my plastic ring…overwhelmed. When I looked up, he was gone. Just like in all the comic books and movies, Batman disappeared from the room and into the night. But he left my heart in a better and far more grateful place.

This past month of September was unlike any other. With nearly 40 events and appointments, it’s easy to understand just why it flew by! A HUGE thank-you to my Aunt Jeri, Uncle John, and cousins Hunter and Cora, for kicking off the month as well as my school program tour in Midland, TX. I was able to visit three different schools in two days, including the outstanding new Fine Arts Academy. I had a wonderful lunch with former Miss Texas, Tatum Hubbard. Thank you, Tatum, for taking the time out of your busy schedule to welcome me to Midland. What a treat! I also sang at the Bishop’s Mass at St. Ann’s and then sang at the football game between rivals Midland High and Midland Lee. On Thursday night Aunt Jeri threw a party for all of her friends and neighbors to visit. It was a blast, and what’s even more incredible is the generosity of these wonderful Midland folks. From that party alone, nearly $2,000 was contributed to my CMN fundraising goal. Thank you, Midland!!!

After Midland, I flew back to Dallas where I met David Vogel. We hopped into the car and drove to Palestine for their inaugural Railfest Celebration. The highlight of this trip had to have been the “Ms. Railfest” fundraiser for the local firemen. These guys made me feel terribly underdressed for the occasion. Shortly after that I got to tease my taste buds a bit at “Nothing Bundt Cakes” in Southlake. It was also the owner, Dee Dee Anderson’s birthday! I told her mine was the following day and she sent me home with two “bundtlets.” I ate one the next morning, (sshhhh, don’t tell Larkin!). It was the best birthday breakfast in history! Then I got to enjoy an evening visiting and signing autographs at Neiman Marcus’ “Fashion’s Night Out”. What a birthday!

Other highlights this month included a Texas Rangers game with David and Rebecca D’Aquin of Baseball Diamonds. Thank you, Becca! I also worked the Mrs. Renfro’s booth at ZestFest. Mrs. Renfro’s salsa is my new favorite! Their pineapple and raspberry chipotle salsa is out of this world! They also sponsor the thousands of autograph photos I will be signing all year! I also visited Terri Ives in her studio where I met her clients, scoped out her fabulous designs and (drum roll please…) picked out my interview outfit for Miss America! I can’t wait to show it off in January. Until then, it’s a surprise. But I can tell you that it is fab…u…lous! Thank you, Terri, for sponsoring Miss Texas’ interview apparel.

Other memorable events included:

• entertaining in the new Cowboy stadium for the Arlington Chamber of Commerce dinner. Yes, I had major butterflies!

• visiting Cook’s Children’s Hospital to celebrate a local Kroger’s outstanding CMN fundraisers.

• attending Grapevine’s “Grapefest” at Ashlin’s Ltd. Thank you Debbie for a great day and the fabulous clothes! You always spoil me rotten!

• presenting school programs in Corsicana and purchasing a fruitcake at the end of the day.

• speaking at the PTA meeting for Groves Elementary School.

• flying to Houston for an all-too-quick trip to my old stomping grounds and speaking at the El Campo Rotary Club, where my grandfather is a member.

• riding in the State Fair of Texas Starlight Parade thanks to Bruce Wallace.

• fitness training with Dr. Larkin Page.

• Mental Management training with Heather Sumlin.

• pampering myself with Dawn Heyl of Image Renu.

• working on my Miss America talent with Brian Schexnayder.  A wonderful perk about being Miss Texas is studying with Brian. For my Miss America talent, I managed to pick one of the hardest songs I will ever sing. Thanks to his great coaching, I couldn’t be more excited about it!

The greatest part of this month was an incredible homecoming celebration put on by some of my favorite people on the planet. Keith Davenport and Ron Carter, thank you both from the bottom of my heart for always making me feel so special. To you and Bobbie, thank you for an incredible day and an even greater past two years (I was Miss Fort Worth before being Miss North Texas, so they were stuck with me twice!) I love you so much and truly am the luckiest girl in Texas thanks to you. My dear friend Robert Jenkins gave me a stunning jacket I will thoroughly enjoy wearing it this year and beyond. Thank you, Robert, for your kindness and friendship. I also need to send a very special thank you to the Fuqua family. You were so pivotal in my preparation for Miss Texas. Sabrina, you are one fabulous little lady, and I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love you and am inspired by you.  I was so proud to have you as my escort at Miss Texas, and then AS Miss Texas at the homecoming. To everyone who came, or couldn’t come, but was a part of my life these last few years during my Miss America journey, you have blessed me beyond words.  To Charlie Van Tramp and Dot Stewart, you began it all and completed that weekend by being there. Thank you for your love and support.

Phew! This is just a skim-the-surface reflection of the past month, and probably a prediction of how much more is yet to come. I am told that October is one of the busiest months, so I’ll keep my crown pinned on tight and be ready to roll! Thanks y’all for the unending support! J

God Bless,
Kristen

September 2, 2009
Two months in and counting. Time doesn’t just fly when you’re having fun; it travels at light speed! While I am feeling more and more settled into my still “new” life as Miss Texas, there are so many things that take my breath away, reminding me just how incredible this job is—as if I could ever forget.

Orlando was a sensation. Taylor was absolutely fantastic and was the talk of many of the girls around me in the audience each night. I remember being so excited for her and her success in competition throughout the week, and yet terrified at the prospect of losing this time with her. I can promise you that no different outcome would have left me more proud to be standing side by side with Taylor Lowery this year. She did Texas proud!

A personal highlight of being in Florida was, of course, being in the same room with the 52 other titleholders vying for the job of Miss America 2010. I cannot explain the kind of excitement, anticipation, and thrill that rippled through the room during our very first meeting together. The talk about the TLC broadcast, the upcoming travel to Las Vegas, hearing Katie Stam, Miss America 2009, say that the next Miss America was in that very room, was all an incredible affirmation that this is truly happening—I am going to Miss America! I remember looking around in a daze at all of the crowns. How many years have I watched the Miss America pageant on television? For the last four years I’ve made the trip to Las Vegas just to take part in the audience, dreaming that someday I might be on that very stage, yet never daring to try and fathom what it all might feel like. Meeting the contestants made it all so very real. I made some great memories in just the few days I got to share with them. I’ll share a few:

Meeting the fellow Southern States
I cannot tell you how cool it was to have Miss Oklahoma, Miss Louisiana, Miss Arkansas, and others just walk up and say “Hey Texas!” It created this immediate bond thanks to good ol’ Southern hospitality. J

Golf cart blues
At a grand fundraiser for Miss America hosted by the Siegel family, we arrived by bus, and were whisked across the very large estate to the house by golf carts. After a fabulous evening of great food, fabulous guests, and dancing the night away, we were all carted like Cinderella back to the bus (minus the carriage, but it was easy to pretend). Suddenly, the cart we were riding in began to slow down about a quarter of the way into the drive. We were creeping along as other carts carrying other contestants were whizzing past us. One of us asked the driver why we were taking such a leisurely cruise, and he sheepishly but courteously responded that the battery was in fact, dying. We all started cracking up…what else could we do? We were crawling by this point. More carts continued flying by, as the other contestants laughed and took pictures of our unfortunate carriage ride. We were still at a loss as to how we are going to get back to the bus, so Miss West Virginia suggested we build momentum by doing this sort of “heave-ho” back and forth. Another great visual: Imagine our driver, pushing a golf cart with six or so beauty queens who were throwing their bodies in unison while chanting “Front! Back!” all the way to the parking lot of the estate. We couldn’t help but arrive back at the bus in even better spirits than when we left the party, thanks to a wonderful gentleman who very deftly deserves a raise in my opinion.

Dinner with the contestants at Maggiano’s
I want to send a huge thank you to Carry and David of Regalia Magnificent Apparel who sponsored a dinner for all the contestants at Maggiano’s. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Carry and David from the beginning of my Miss Texas journey and can say that it’s impossible to meet these two and not love them to pieces. Plus, you should have seen all of us annihilate the lasagna!

There have been many other wonderful and unforgettable happenings this past month, including:

• working with Janet Sue Rush on my school program.

• working with the greatest personal trainer in history—Larkin Page.

• emceeing the Neiman Marcus “Back to Cool” Fashion show with Chuck Steelman.

• meeting all of my fabulous Miss Texas traveling companions.

• training with Lanny Basham and Heather Sumlin of Mental Management.

• meeting with Dr. Berry Fleming, the official Miss Texas doctor.

• completing etiquette training with the lovely Susan Huston.

• attending a birthday party for two fabulous 5-year-old ladies, Madelyn and Kaylyn.

And on top of everything, I squeezed in a little pampering time with an oxygen infusion facial treatment from Dawn Heyl of Image Renu.

I am about to embark on a two-day trip to Midland to kick off my school tour, followed by a trip to Palestine, TX for Railfest. I am also learning how to pack everything into a single carry-on bag, yet still bring “emergency” outfits and necessities. Let me tell you it is a very difficult balance, but one I am determined to conquer and be a pro at by the end of the year!

Here’s to the next great adventure!

Love,
Kristen

August 5, 2009
The term "whirlwind" is so often used to describe months like the one just passed. However, I can't seem to find just one word that truly does justice. I'll start with "incredible," "busy," "emotional" (in a good way!) and above all, a huuuuge "learning experience!" I knew all during Miss Texas week that I had done all I possibly could to prepare myself for the job of Miss Texas. I have to tell you though, that doesn't relieve the shock and awe I still feel each day waking up in the beautiful Miss Texas apartment, then hopping into the Miss Texas car (a brand new Chevy Traverse which Holiday Chevrolet may have a hard time getting back from me, I love it so much!!!) to go about whatever daily business is in store. Not to mention going about that business and having people call you "Miss Texas!"

People often ask, "Have you had time to relax?" The answer is surprisingly, yes. The entire first week after Miss Texas, Taylor and I found ourselves getting made over, photographed, and interviewed. But in between those times I found myself sleeping in far past what I usually find appropriate, and being magnanimously spoiled and fed by Jean Magness. My first night at her house I remember waking up and panicking for a moment wondering where I was. Then it dawned on me…"I'm in Jean's house…I'm Miss Texas!!!" The fact that I still have mornings like that is the answer to the other most commonly asked question, "Has it sunk in yet?" Not really, but I'm not sure I'd have it any other way. Each morning is a testament to the fact that I am truly the luckiest girl in Texas.

Since so much has happened in the last month, I will share just a few memories that are floating at the very top of my head:

The 4th of July parade in Arlington
How Tonya actually received my text at 4:00 AM and had Sabrina in Arlington by 6:30 so we could ride in the parade together is still a mystery to me. I cannot imagine sharing that first morning as Miss Texas with anyone more special than my Princess Sabrina.

Hair at Burt Grant Salon
I was feeling a little off-color for about 24 hours, but that didn't damper my excitement for my new "do" provided by the fabulous Raquel at Burt Grant Salon. However, I went to the doctor later that day to find I had a 102 degree fever, sinusitis and acute bronchitis. Sheesh!

Photo session at Premiere Photography
Kelle and Dale at Premiere Photography have been two of my favorite people since I met them years ago as Miss Southlake. Kelle is a brilliant photographer. And I had just as much fun seeing Taylor's wonderful new pictures as my own. I also got to spend some time getting to know David and Becca D'Aquin of Baseball Diamonds, who happen to also be spoiling us rotten with so many beautiful things to wear for the year as well as for our official photos.

Arlington Camera and a flat tire
My old camera was a bit of a senior citizen, taking about 5 years to take each picture. Needless to say, I was very excited to receive a Nikon Coolpix kit from Arlington Camera. On the way to Arlington however, a gentleman at a stoplight flailed his arms at me for my attention. Thinking he was just another oggler at the hard-to-miss Miss Texas signs on the car, I just looked over and smiled until he rolled down his window to shout "You have a flat tire!" Luckily, David Vogel was with me that morning, and being the marketing genius that he is, brought a program book with us to the tire and auto store next door and announced "Gentlemen, this is Miss Texas, and we have a flat tire." I don't think I've ever seen such quick service! A huge thank you to Advanced Tire & Auto Service for being my knights in shining armor. J

Shopping with Jean
"What do you think of this Jean?" "That's great, Kristen, but what on earth are you going to wear it to...We have to get you out of College mode and into Queenly mode." That pretty much sums up major learning experience, number one! I also thought I was a good bargain shopper with my ability to locate fabulous finds and even better prices. But my skills pale in comparison to those of Jean Magness. I have had more fun shopping with her though I have learned that I can be painfully indecisive—a trait I have a feeling I will definitely overcome by the end of this year.

Shopping with Taylor
As we stop to get a cold drink and ice cream across from Ashlin's LTD in Grapevine, Taylor asks, "Aren't you glad we're both skinny so Jean will let us eat anything we want?" I just sigh and smile to myself. If only I ran hurdles and could dance and do back flips off boxes too...

Ringling Bros. Circus
Wow…that’s about all I can muster to say about this event. Imagine seeing the Greatest Show on Earth, backstage. Then, actually getting to be a part of it by singing the National Anthem from the middle of the ring. This was one of the coolest things I've ever seen and experienced in my life! If you didn't see the show in Dallas, definitely check it out as it heads to Fort Worth!

Washington State for the Miss Tri-Cities Pageant
My first time back to my home of 10 years. I was greeted by whom I consider a second family, Bob and Dot Stewart, and other loved ones on the Miss Tri-Cities board (the first local title I ever had). We went to lunch where an additional 10 or so faces of loved ones of my tween/teen years were all waiting for me. I found myself just staring at each of their faces as I ate my lunch, taking in every second like I wouldn't have another with them. And yet strangely it felt like I had just seen them all yesterday! That whole weekend was extraordinary. Seeing old, and still best friends, driving by my old high school and church, taking Keith (who judged the Miss Tri-Cities Pageant that weekend) to the Spudnut Shop for breakfast and running into familiar faces even there. The pageant itself was astounding as ever, a fantastic production with great results! Congratulations to the new Miss Tri-Cities Jerica Fowler and Miss Teen Tri-Cities Samantha Brown. A huge thank you to the Miss Washington and Miss Tri-Cities boards for providing me my first steps into the Miss America program, and the courage and confidence I needed to begin the pursuit of my dream to become Miss Texas. Also, a special thank you to my dear friend George Garlick for giving me the inspiration and faith it took to pursue any and all of my dreams here in Texas and in life. I love you all.

There are so many more unforgettable events. I could write a novel just about my first month as Miss Texas 2009! My first speaking engagement to the wonderful community at St. Stephens's United Methodist Church and receiving the key to the city from Mesquite's Mayor John Monaco; speaking to the beautiful young ladies at Reign '09 Women's Conference; meeting Janet Sue Rush to work on my school program (which I am totally pumped about!); celebrating our beautiful Miss Teen Texas, Taylor, at her homecoming; and so many others. It's amazing to think of what I have already seen in just one month, and hard to imagine what the next 11 will have in store. I can tell you though, I cannot wait! Today I will meet Katie Stam, our beautiful Miss America at Cook's Children's Hospital in Fort Worth, a place near to my heart. Then next week it is off to Orlando to see Taylor rock the stage at MAOT!

I am beyond blessed, beyond thrilled, and beyond grateful that I get to be the one fortunate lady to have this year of a lifetime. Thanks so very much to all of you who make it all possible.

Love,
Kristen

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