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Miss Teen Texas 2009 Blog
June
15, 2010
I am FINALLY out of school! And
officially a senior! However, that didn’t happen until the very end of May.
I stayed busy studying for all my finals during March and getting my cheer
squad ready for cheer camp. The Lufkin Relay For Life got canceled and I
didn’t get to attend due to weather. I have attended the event every year
since I was 7 and hate that I missed out on this important year. My aunt
Donna passed away of breast cancer and for the past 2 years she has had a
team. Her story touched so many people’s lives in our area and people
continue to show their compassion by wearing her believe tee shirt.
Dance Troop Sleepover
The new Miss Texas Dance Troop got together in March to learn the production
number they will be performing in the pageant. I was invited to encourage
the girls as they worked and spend sometime with them in between learning.
Kristin and I also got to chat with the girls about our dance experience,
our dreams at their age, and our journey to winning the state pageant. The
girls worked so hard and looked amazing when I left so everyone should be
looking forward to their performance. They got to wind down a little at
CiCi’s pizza (where I ate entirely too many cinnamon rolls!). I loved
getting to know the girls and getting the chance to spend some time with 2
of my national princesses, Marissa and Brighton. I can’t wait to see how the
Dance Troop grows in the upcoming years!
June is my last month, as Miss Teen Texas, and I know the remainder of it will fly by! I started the month with my Varsity Cheer Camp. Camp went so well and I got a good sneak peek at how my squad works together. We also had All-American tryouts and I made it along with 7 other girls on the varsity cheer squad. So I can officially say I am a 5-year All-American cheerleader… I’ve been waiting forever for that! I also took a 3-day vacation to Tennessee and got to spend a little time with Miss Teen Tennessee 2009, Victoria Calton. She was my best friend and roommate at the pageant so we had a blast catching up! Goes to show the lasting friendships this organization has created in my life.
Children’s Miracle Network
The Children’s Miracle Network held a telethon in Tyler to raise money for
the organization. CMN is a partner to the Miss America Organization and Miss
America serves as a spokesperson for CMN to spread awareness and raise money
for new research and to fund medical procedures. The appearance was one of
my favorite events because I actually got to hang out with the kids and hear
their stories. They truly are miracle children! This isn’t only because they
lived through or are living with extreme medical illness and accidents, but
because they were able to stay so optimistic throughout such tragic times.
The news station interviewed many of the kids, and representatives from
businesses presented checks for the money they raised for CMN. I also was
interviewed and presented a check on behalf of Wal-Mart. One of the little
girls I met just couldn’t believe how much we have in common. Her name is
Taylor, her favorite color is purple and blue, she loves puppies and horses,
and had a crown; all just like me! That’s what this title is about… being
able to relate to others on a personal level so that they realize they too
can accomplish their dreams.
Tea with Miss Teen Texas
Lufkin held a fundraiser for a teen boy who is in need of a kidney
transplant. I donated “Tea with Teen Texas” to help raise money to pay for
the exorbitant cost of a kidney transplant. “Currently, an estimated $40,000
is being raised by Lufkin volunteers for a kidney transplant at John Hopkins
Hospital” (Lufkin Daily News). Local organizations and businesses are doing
everything they can for the boy to help his family pay for the expenses.
While my donation is small, I hope everyone in this area will do their best
to also make small contributions because it will all add up to make a
difference.
My year is coming to an end so I am doing all I can with my title in these last few days. It has been the experience of a lifetime and has changed my outlook on life. I am not the girl I was a year ago when they placed the crown on my head. This experience made me mature and taught me so much that I know will come into play later in life. I am honored to have had this opportunity and did my best to fulfill the expectations of a state titleholder. The Miss Texas Organization is accepted well by everyone and it’s reputation is well respected across the nation. Year after year ,the titleholders get the opportunity to spread that reputation for the better and give more and more people the chance to interact with the program. So to the next girl… I hope you keep this in mind and realize that every time you walk into a room you are creating a new opinion in the minds of those who see, or communicate with you that day. Always be on you’re A-game! I wish all of you the best of luck in this year’s pageant and cant wait to see the outcome! Remember you all have what it takes or you wouldn’t have made it this far. It’s all in God’s hands now and your preparation is complete. Trust your hard work. Just live this week up and make the most of every moment. This chapter of your life will not last forever.
Taylor
May
14, 2010
Like every other month this year,
April kept me busy! Aside from pageant appearances and volunteering, I
attended my first prom and ran at the district and regional meets. Prom was
all that I hoped for and I am so glad I waited! A group of eight of my good
friends got together to take pictures and have dinner before (you can check
the scrapbook for pictures!). April was a successful month as far as track
goes! At district I got 1st in 100H and our sprint relay got 2nd, both
qualifying for regional’s in Waco. Twenty-four people in each event advance
to regionals and 8 make it to finals. I finished 6th at the regional finals
and am already ready to come back better next year! I don’t like loosing,
haha! Not at all… but it only gives me experience.
As many of you sports fans know, the Rangers opening game was on April 5th. I attended and made an appearance in Baseball Diamond’s suite. This game stood out from the others I have been to because in the opening ceremony, four air force fighter jets flew over and an unbelievably big flag covered the entire infield! Rebecca and David also invited the Maverick Maniacs to their suite and I had a blast with them! For those of you who don’t know, the Maverick Maniacs are basically hilarious guys that pump up the fans and dance at the basketball games. They kept chanting “MISS TEEN TEXAS!!” Clap clap clap clap… and there I was trying to be discrete. Not that the crown was helping haha! I also got to exchange my jewelry for the last time. I cannot thank baseball Diamonds enough for their generosity this year!
The Lufkin Special Olympics was also this month! I was so excited to see the athletes get to compete this year after the event got canceled last year due to swine flu. All the clients from Oak Creek Center competed and I had a blast cheering them on and placing the medals around their necks! It’s always amazing to see them accomplish their goals and enjoy the reward. I was playing four roles at the event though… talk about juggling! The cheerleaders were escorting the athletes, national honor society as working concessions, as Miss Teen Texas I was signing autographs and awarding medals, and I was there simply to support Oak Creek Center! I signed over 300 autographs within on hour! ALLLLLLLLL the athletes wanted one and a picture! It was awesome! The following morning, I was pictured in the paper escorting my athlete with the cheerleaders. So many organizations and groups in our community were involved… that’s what makes my platform worth it.
I attended a private school in Lufkin in kindergarten and made a donation to them this month. The school auctioned off a “Tea with Miss Teen Texas” to four little girls. I haven’t had the tea yet but I can’t wait to get to visit with them! I’m sure they are just as excited as me… I will probably have more fun playing tea party and dolls than them! I haven’t done that in like 3 weeks… just kidding! It’s been years and years!
I enjoyed seeing everyone at spring meeting and getting to catch up with the girls. Contestants: All of you girls have made wonderful progress over the moths and are ready to compete! Trust your preparation and ability. Keep up the work even when it seems impossible… everything will pay off in July! Remember you can face book me if you need any encouragement or advice! I’m on there everyday just like every other teenager (and old people now haha, no offense). Also, congrats to all the girls who made the 1st Miss Texas dance troop! Kristin and I had a blast emceeing the competition and admiring all the amazing talent! You girls rocked it and I can’t wait to hang out with you all later this month at dance troop weekend!!!!
To close on this month, I want to tell you all that I didn’t realize until the Lufkin rodeo the other day that some people here actually think I’m some kind of famous person! LOL! I sat down to watch bull riding and a mother tapped me on the shoulder and said “I have to ask because my girls are going crazy… are you the girl from the billboard?” I told her yes… wrong answer because the next thing I know I’m signing program books and taking pictures with a whole crew of kids in the middle of the rodeo. People who didn’t know what was going on were starring at me like I was supposed to be a movie star. I felt like Miley Cyrus haha! It was pretty crazy! I guess that’s part of the job. I can’t believe my year is coming to an end. I cherish every moment of it.
Taylor
April
12, 2010
The month of March is a little
different because for about a week no one knew I was Miss Teen Texas! My
family took our spring break vacation to Snowmass, CO to snowboard and I was
just Taylor for a week. The break was nice but I was ready to get back to
appearances and events when I got back to Texas. All in one weekend, I
attended the group events to the VA Hospitals in Waco and Temple, the trip
to the Capitol, and made a visit to a children’s hospital in Austin. In
addition to the pageant life this month, I was inducted into the National
Honor Society and ran in Texas Relays (that meet is ridiculously huge by the
way!).
VA Hospitals
Our first stop of Capitol Day Weekend was at the veteran’s hospital in Waco
and from there to the veteran’s hospital in Temple. I have always thought
that there is nothing I can do to thank our veterans enough for the time
they have taken from their life to fight for our country… nothing that would
even begin to add up at least. However, after visiting the hospital and
seeing their faces light up, I realized I could make a difference. It’s not
about trying to repay them for all they have done; It’s about being willing
to show your appreciation. Simple gestures such as visiting them to shake
their hand and say thank you ,go a long way! We performed for the vets,
visited some private rooms, and got the opportunity to thank them
personally. They deserve every bit of honor we can give.
Capitol Day
Guess what Mrs. Jan! I arrived to capitol day on time, with the group, and
breathing calmly. Too bad I can’t say the same about my first year… for
those of you who don’t remember ,my first year I was sprinting down the
sidewalk, hurdling bushes on the capitol premises in 5 inch heels, and about
10 minutes late. Things have changed for the better to say the least haha!
To Vicki Slaton: I can’t say THANK YOU enough times for putting this event
together for all of the girls! It makes a huge statement when we arrive to
the capitol together and I am sure we leave a lasting impression. Events
like these are what promote the positive characteristics of the Miss Texas
Organization. We all learned so much form the speakers and had the amazing
opportunity to visit with many representatives. All in all, Capitol Day was
a huge success once again! And ohhh yeah! When I was leaving the capitol I
was swarmed by a group of exchange students from China and they seemed to be
intrigued by my crown. Once I explained to them that I was Miss Teen Texas
they all went crazy and had to have 100’s of pictures! I needed you Mr. Jim!
It’s funny to see the variety of reactions you get throughout the year.
Dell Children’s Hospital
Once I separated from the group that Monday, I went to the children’s
hospital in Austin. When I arrived I went straight to the playroom and sat
down with 3 of the girls to create crowns out of paper, jewels, colors, and
much more. I had a blast sharing stories with them and getting to know them
on a personal level. The patients there really are just like all other kids
at the roots but have the unique ability to overcome unthinkable struggles
and stay strong through the toughest of times. I also walked around and
visited some of the private rooms to sign pictures and hang out with the
patients. The visit really made me appreciate all that I am blessed with and
left me grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of
such amazing kids. That’s what this title is all about.
Texas Relays
Texas Relays is basically the Miss Texas Pageant of Track. Everyone who
attends has to qualify according to his or her rank. The athletes with the
top 54 times in the state in all divisions are invited to compete. I ran the
100H and finished 18th… didn’t run great but the experience is what matters
and I kept my time in the 14’s. Talk about running under pressure! There
were scouts and college athletes everywhere and I was on the University of
Texas track in Austin. Woah! I have District and regional’s coming up so I
will be sure to keep everyone updated.
I am looking forward to seeing everyone at Spring Meeting and catching up! The pageant seems to be approaching at hyper speed! I am sure the directors and contestants agree with me there. Wish everyone the best of luck in preparing! Be patient and persistent… the hard work will pay off in July!
Taylor
March 9, 2010
So I have decided that I eat
even more chocolate and candy during the Valentine’s Day month than the
Halloween month… and I didn’t know that was possible! I hope everyone had a
lovely Valentine’s Day and productive month. I know I did! Although a few
of my appearances got canceled due to complications and schedule clashes, I
made some fun appearances and stayed busy. Plus, I had varsity cheer
tryouts, captain tryouts, my first track meet of the season, and national
honor society appliance all in the month of February! Thank goodness I like
to be constantly on the go!
I was invited to be a guest judge at the annual “Mr. Cy-Wood’s Pageant” in Cypress. The pageant is a fundraiser for the after prom party hosted by the high school and they had over 1000 people attend the event. It’s not the kind of pageant all of you are used to though. This one consists of only high school boy contestants and is one of the funniest things I have ever seen! Just imagine 32 senior guys competing to capture the judge’s votes and doing anything (I mean ANYTHING!) to be entertaining. The pageant included talent, swimwear, tuxedo modeling, and on stage question. I literally laughed until I cried judging! Everyone also laughed at me when I fell down the stairs returning from the bathroom… dress, crown, heels and all! My Mom said she heard someone say “The Crown Went Down”!! So I think the boys and I had our share of embarrassment for the month! But in the end, we picked a hilarious winner with an awesome talent! I would like to thank Donnie Martinez for inviting me to judge and including me in the fun!
On Valentine’s Day, Kristin and I emceed and performed at Warren Morrison’s Hunt County Pageant. However, this wasn’t just any local pageant; it was Warren’s 30th Anniversary celebration! Directors like Warren are what make the Miss Texas Pageant function. He is a devoted director and has always done everything in his power to please his girls. So…, thanks Warren! This was the last local I will attend this year and I appreciate all who have included me!
On the 20th I volunteered to help out with the Special Olympics basketball tournament in Nacogdoches. The event is basically a spring Olympics for athletes from all over the county. I opened up the tournament with a small speech, and one of the athletes followed by reciting the official oath. I had a blast watching all the athletes compete in the games and encouraging them from the sidelines. I also got to hand out the metals on the winner’s platform and congratulate them on their accomplishments! During the event I had the opportunity to meet a very special girl named Jessica Clopp. She is a member of the Texas rhythmic gymnastics team of the Special Olympics. She has competed nationally and I got to hear all about her amazing experience! I also was involved in competitive gymnastics so we enjoyed sharing fun stories. She is a dedicated athlete and gives her all to represent Texas well on a national level. I encourage all of you to visit her website www.firstgiving.com/jessicaclopp and donate to her funds to attend nationals again this year! Your help would be extremely appreciated by Jessica and her family!
In addition to these appearances, I had planned to attend the Houston Rodeo and ride in the grand entry and to appear as Miss Teen Texas on the Extreme Home Makeover episode in Tyler. School and the TAKS test interfered with the rodeo and I was only able to attend because I arrived too late for the grand entry. The weather managed to cancel the special effects filming for Extreme Home Makeover. Tough luck, but I appreciate the invitation and wish I could have been there for both events. Thanks to Duc Nguyen for the rodeo lead and to Carol Fuller for the connection to Extreme Home Makeover. The volunteers who help keep me busy are wonderful and I appreciate their dedication.
While all of this was occurring, so were cheer tryouts, captain tryouts, track meets, and national honor society enrollment. I am happy to announce that I made the varsity squad for next year and went on to become the LHS Varsity Captain. Also, I competed in my first track meet and got 2nd in 100H and 5th in 300H. I have some work to do but not a bad start. I also received a letter of eligibility for the national honor society and turned in my application so hopefully that works out! All in all, February was a month packed full of exciting events, appearances, and news! I couldn’t have asked for anything more!
Taylor
February 9, 2010
My year kicked off great with
a month full of busy weekends! Good thing I love to travel because I have
not been home one weekend in January. From Mexico to Houston to Texarkana to
Arlington to San Antonio to Las Vegas… talk about covering some ground!
Funny thing is… I can’t think of one thing I would rather be doing then
traveling all over representing my wonderful state!
American Heart Association Gala
The mission of the American Heart Association is “to build healthier lives,
free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke”. The organization puts faces to
heart diseases and strokes - faces of all ages and ethnicities that show the
harsh realities of America's number 1 and number 3 killers. Events to raise
money for this cause are essential and people like Ben and Stacy James Mayo,
Miss Texas 2001, make them possible. On January 9th I attended the American
Heart Association Gala in Texarkana as Miss Teen Texas. Stacy and Ben
chaired the event for the cause and worked countless hours to accomplish
such a successful turnout. Many attended and a large proportion of those
participated in the live auction. I helped show off some of the jewelry that
was auctioned off and welcomed people as they entered. The gala was complete
with a wonderful meal, presentations, a video, dancing, and a live band…
Even Stacy stole the microphone for a few songs! I also had the opportunity
to meet one of the young patients, Bailey Fenton, who has survived thanks to
the hard work and dedication of the association. I got to teach him to dance
after dinner while his parents snapped pictures… he was embarrassed! All in
all, the event was a huge success and I had a blast. It was all for a good
cause and the credit goes to the Mayo’s and all others who helped out in any
way!
Winter Meeting
My second winter meeting to attend but this time it was a little different!
I realized that winter meeting is the first step preparing for the 2010
pageant and that my reign is flying by faster than I can comprehend! All of
the contestants looked amazing already and I know they will, once again,
make the decision tough on the judges! I loved seeing all the girls and
getting to catch up with those that I don’t see often. I wish all of the
contestants good luck in preparing and encourage you to come to the pageant
at your best! If you need any advice, encouragement, or even a listener,
feel free to contact me because I have been there and know exactly how you
feel!
Miss South Texas Pageant in San
Antonio and Experience
When I finished my basketball game in Houston Friday night we headed
straight to San Antonio for the pageant on Saturday. Last time I visited I
was 10 and didn’t think of the Alamo as anything more than a bunch of
bricks… but this time the experience meant more and my dad was there to
explain everything to me in detail. We also stayed in a historic hotel The
Fairmount that has been there for almost a hundred years… and their dog Luke
came to visit me every night in my room! He is a rescue pet of the hotel and
greets all the residents; He even wore my crown! We also visited the
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and I saw a statue of the world’s tallest
man… I felt tiny! The pageant also went well and I got to perform my dance
and sign autographs! I had a blast spending time with my parents on the trip
and also getting to attend the Miss South Texas pageant!
Miss America
The last Wednesday in January we flew to Las Vegas for the Miss America
Pageant! I don’t know if I was more excited to see the pageant or to see all
my friends from Miss Americas Outstanding Teen! Miss Teen Tennessee, my best
friend from Orlando, flew in to stay with us that Thursday and we almost
tackled each other when I saw her for the first time! They kept us busy with
a rehearsal, Thursday night performance for the show and an outing/reunion
for all of the Teens Friday! We went to visit the children’s hospital, the
Las Vegas sign, and even the Las Vegas version of Paris! We all had a blast
catching up and the fun continued Friday night in my suite when I hosted a
sleepover for 12 of my closest friends from the pageant in Orlando. I also
went to a magic show with Teen North Carolina on Friday night and got to see
a white tiger up close. The pageant on Saturday was more suspenseful than
any I have ever attended. I almost had 12 heart attacks cheering for Kristen
and was so proud of her performance! All the teens went on and on about how
sweet, beautiful and talented she is! I never missed a chance to let
everyone know she was MY miss! I love her! For those of you who didn’t get
to attend… she really was more than a state could ask for and represented
all of us so well! Congratulate her on all she did because in my mind she
possesses all the characteristics of a Miss America and she is our Miss
Texas!
I hope everyone’s year started off great and will continue to bring wonderful things! Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day and try not to eat too much chocolate like I know I will!
Taylor
December
29, 2009
The holidays came and went
faster than my brain can process! December is my all time favorite month of
the year for four reasons: I love the weather! The 11th is my birthday!
Christmas time is finally here! And most significantly, a BREAK from school!
This month was my idea of the perfect December, one full of exciting
appearances and holiday spirit. Outside of pageant events, I celebrated my
17th birthday on the 11th and attended my first school dance on the 20th! So
I officially consider myself more mature... maybe, haha! Anyway, I am going
to do my best to give everyone the highlights of my holiday season as Miss
Teen Texas!
I kicked off the month on the 1st with a visit to the American Legion Auxiliary of Lufkin. I met Lucy Burris , their Troop Support Chairperson, when I attended an event on veteran’s day and we both decided in advance that I would give something to the American Legion Auxiliary program to send out in the supply boxes for the troops. She decided that an autographed picture would be something unique and different to add to each of the boxes. I signed a total of 80 pictures to be sent with the supplies thanking the troops for their service and wishing them each a Merry Christmas. It felt like such a simple gesture in comparison to the time they serve for our country but I was proud to do a small part. I plan to work with Mrs. Lucy again soon to send some little something on each of the upcoming holidays.
I have been in the Lufkin Christmas Parade my entire life representing one pageant title or another. However, nothing in the past can compare to riding in the parade as Miss Teen Texas 2009! I was pulled behind a white horse in a glowing princess carriage. I felt like I was in my own fairy tale! I even wore a fluffy light pink dress and white gloves… and for those of you who know me know pink and fluffy is not my usual attire haha! But it was an amazing night and I hope every upcoming Miss Teen Texas gets the opportunity to experience something that makes them feel like a princess! For me it happened right in my hometown and I will never forget it!
The Lufkin Varsity Cheer Squad goes to the Lufkin State School every year to wrap gifts that people have bought for each of the residents. It was an awesome experience for me because my platform encourages youth to accept the mentally challenged; I got to see first hand that my generation is willing to make an effort. We wrapped tons and tons of gifts for about an hour and got so much accomplished!
I also attended the Oak Creek Center Christmas party on the 18th. However, there was a twist on the celebration this time… I didn’t show up as Taylor Lowery Miss Teen Texas but as Santa’s Elf! The entire group included Santa Clause, Mrs. Clause, 2 elves, and Rudolph! (You should have seen my mom dressed as Mrs. Clause in that white wig and specs… FUNNY!) All the consumers were overwhelmed as we slipped through the door and they began to notice us one by one! I loved seeing the happiness in their eyes and making their Christmas better. We handed out all the gifts individually to the consumers and they were so appreciative. Because my family adopted four of the consumers and shopped for the items on their Christmas list, I enjoyed seeing the joyful reactions they had to the gifts! The party was a huge success and lifted everyone’s Christmas spirits!
Those of you who know me are well aware that I am a huge sports fan! Football, baseball, basketball, track! Anything! However, I recently was introduced to something new… HOCKEY! Duc Nguyen arranged an awesome appearance for me to drop the puck at the Areos/Stars pro-game! I even got to walk onto the ice on a red carpet and shake hands with two of the players. I also signed autographs during the first period of the game and experienced something pretty interesting… Two girls about my age asked me to sign their jeans! Wow! I had a blast and am now addicted to the sport. Too bad I couldn’t beat the glass and yell too loud with my crown haha! I would like to give a special thank you to Duc who always goes over and beyond to set up awesome appearances for me. And for those of you who didn’t attend the Southeast Texas Pageant, you have to see the bobblehead Duc had made of me… talk about a creative gift! I love it! I can’t thank Duc enough for all of his support over the years!
I wish everyone an exciting and Happy New Year! May all of your resolutions stand their ground over the next year!
Taylor
December
13, 2009
November is the month many set
aside to remember all they have in their life and say thanks for each
blessing they are given. Every day I hold the title of Miss Teen Texas is
truly a blessing and I am so appreciative that God has given me this
opportunity. I spent a week in Del Rio for Thanksgiving with my family and
close family friends. While I was there I realized how lucky I am to have a
loving family and wonderful friends to share this chapter of my life with.
This year means everything to me and I am appreciative for every moment. I
have so much to be thankful for and this month reminded me to say thanks for
each and every blessing I am given.
Crime Stoppers Banquet Lufkin
My Uncle, Rocky, is over Lufkin Crime Stoppers and invited me to their
annual banquet to honor the law enforcement and thank them for their
service. The dinner was a great opportunity for me to personally thank many
of the officials who make it their duty to protect my community. My dad’s
bank donated $2500 to be raffled and I presented the awards to the winners
during the event. Sheriff J. B. Smith, the Sheriff of Smith County and past
president of the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas, was the speaker of honor at
the event and autographed his book afterward. I had the opportunity to sit
down with him and hear his story about serving his position for over 33
years (one of the longest tenured sheriffs in Texas). We signed autographs
together and both were interviewed by KTRE News. The event was a perfect way
to show members of Crime Stoppers program my appreciation and honor their
commitment… Plus now I know all the city police, sheriffs, state troopers,
and constables = No more tickets! Totally kiddin!
Veteran’s Day
Desha Franks, mother of Courtney Franks, one of my LSP’s, is a teacher for
Huntington school district and invited me to attend the school’s annual
program to honor local veterans. The event was very patriotic, complete with
a slideshow of current and former veterans, a performance of patriotic
songs, and lunch for all who attended. It was awesome to see my grandfather
and many of his brothers on the wall of honor for the veterans. The guest
keynote speaker, U.S. Army Capt. Ivan Castro, gave an inspirational speech
about his unique, captivating experience as a member of the U.S forces.
During a battle with insurgents in 2006, a mortar round exploded 2 feet from
him, killing 2 men and severely injuring Casto and leaving him completely
blind. Today, he is the U.S. Army’s only blind Special Forces officer and
uses his story to inspire others to never quit and overcome any confinements
in their life. I had the opportunity to meet him and his 6 comrades after
the program and take pictures. He wanted to know ALLLL about what I looked
like… if I had a crown, a banner, and maybe even blonde hair! I also got to
serve the veterans food and drinks for lunch and speak to many of them… Let
me tell you, they do not like waiting on their lunch and I’m not the world’s
best waitress! The event made the front page of The Lufkin Daily News and
was a great way to honor the veterans who served and serve for our country.
Oak Creek Center
Thanksgiving
I made another visit to Oak Creek Center for the Thanksgiving celebration.
The party was very festive and we all ate way more than anyone should… but
we have the excuse of it being Thanksgiving so who cares?! We also danced as
always and took tons of pictures! I made a slide show presentation of all
the visitations and holidays I have spent at Oak Creek Center, which we
viewed after dinner. Everyone seemed so happy to see their face up on the
screen and was more than willing to re-live fun memories. I can’t think of a
place I would have rather spent my Thanksgiving celebration! The consumers
and staff at Oak Creek Center are so gracious and thankful for all they are
blessed with and embody the thanksgiving spirit!
Lufkin… Home of Miss
Teen Texas 2009!
I got home from school one day and my mom told me to get in the car because
we were going somewhere. I learned a long time ago not to ask questions! We
drove for about ten minutes and I wasn’t paying any attention to my
surroundings as usual. My mom told me to look up and I saw my face the size
of a mac truck up on my new billboard! It reads “Lufkin…Home of Miss Teen
Texas 2009 Taylor Lowery”! I was so surprised and have been getting calls
about the sign everyday. Special thanks to Mark Hicks for planning all the
details and making the billboard possible!
Enjoy your holiday season Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
Taylor Lowery
Miss Teen Texas 2009
November
5, 2009
Wow!!! I can’t believe that
I’m already through my fourth month as Miss Teen Texas!!! October must be my
favorite month of the year, because I absolutely love Halloween and it marks
the midway point of football season. We also had our Lufkin High School
homecoming this month. You should see the size of my mums! School has been
crazy! I found out that I was ranked 12th in my class of 592 people!
Holidays, school, cheerleading, track, and pageants! WHAT A CRAZY
MONTH!!!!!!!
Oak Creek Center
It was really exciting to have the opportunity to go back to the Workshop to
see everyone and hang out with all of the consumers! I have never been so
proud to wear my crown because they are genuinely my most loyal supporters.
We took pictures and I signed autograph cards. Some even came back for
seconds!
Lufkin Homecoming
What an awesome day! I was welcomed home after Miss America’s Outstanding
Teen by all of my hometown fans, family, friends, and loving supporters.
Tara Watson, Miss Texas 2000, was kind enough to arrange all of the
festivities with help from her mom, Ann, and several local supporters.
Several representatives from the Miss Texas and the Miss Plano Frisco
organization made the trip to Lufkin! I also got to reunite with several of
my pageant sisters before the homecoming celebration—including Madison
Fuller and Ali York. I loved having them visit my hometown and associate all
the stories I have told them with actual places and faces. Several members
from my Varsity cheer squad performed a cheer in honor of me and even wore
their uniforms! I want to say a special thank you to Duc Nguyen, Deidra
Davis, Jerry K Boyd, and Jan Mitchell for speaking and being so
complimentary of me. I was presented a key to the city by Mayor Jack Gordon,
and a proclamation by the City Council officially declaring October 4th,
,2009 Taylor Lowery Day! I am still trying to find the gate so I can use my
key?!?! I also received the flag that flew over the Texas state capitol on
July 3rd, the day I won by title. So many amazing honors came my way in one
day, I didn’t know what to do with myself!
Christmas Ornaments
I was asked to decorate three Christmas ornaments to be auctioned to benefit
the Buckner Home. What a great opportunity to help out an organization that
does so much for orphans across the nation. I had a blast designing and
signing my own creation and was determined to make mine unique! One of the
three will be auctioned off as a “celebrity ball”! It’s crazy that I am now
considered a local celebrity; my brothers say I’m still their same little
sister who talks too much!
Bill O’Reilly and Crime Stoppers Gala
I attended the Houston Crime Stoppers Gala with my dad and my Uncle Rocky,
who is President of the Lufkin Crime Stoppers Board. The banquet was a blast
and gave me an opportunity to meet many people involved with volunteer
organizations across the state. Best of all, one of my all time favorite
people was the keynote speaker for the event—the one and only Bill O’Reilly!
Before I entered the pageant world I couldn’t be forced to engage in
anything that even remotely related to politics, why would a teenager care
right? Well, when I was introduced to the O’Reilly Factor on Fox News I
became addicted to politics and I watch the show every night at seven.
However, this time when I saw Mr. O’Reilly, I was standing right next to him
shaking his hand and taking pictures! I gave him an autographed picture,
which kind of seemed funny to me considering that I am his biggest fan!
Thank you to Katherine Cabanias and Ranta Mankarious for making this happen
and being so friendly to me. Also thanks to Pat Lowe for making me feel
welcomed as soon as I walked into the room and introducing me to everyone! I
will never forget the people I build friendships with on my journey as Miss
Teen Texas.
School Speech to Huntington Elementary
They say when you become Miss Teen Texas or Miss Texas you need to be
prepared for anything. No one told me this included trying to handle 500
elementary kids at one time! I was asked to give a Drug Free speech by the
elementary principal of a school district in my county. Being drug free
week, I spoke on the importance of saying no to drugs and alcohol and the
negative effects they can have on your life. I put together a skit and a
chant that helped get the students involved and allowed them to participate
first hand. Both activities included a lot of yelling and chanting because I
quickly caught on to the fact that they liked being loud and were
impressively good at it! The appearance was awesome and I know the message
to be drug free was conveyed. I was asked to come back anytime I want, so
hopefully more speeches will follow up the current one.
Oak Creek Center Halloween Party
I help plan and organize many of the holiday celebrations for Oak Creek
Center where I volunteer. All of the consumers at the workshop have looked
forward to the Halloween party for months and were more than ready when it
came! We all had a blast dancing to a live Crime Stoppers Band and getting
into the Halloween “mood”. The party was complete with a costume contest and
Frito pies and cookies! I didn’t think I could serve the food fast enough
because they were so excited to finish eating and go on to the next
activity. Also, some of the staff and I set up a spooky haunted house to
guide the consumers through and they are still talking about it! All in all,
the party was a hit! However we made our jobs ten times harder because now
we have to make the upcoming Thanksgiving party top this one.
I want to wish all of the girls competing in the upcoming local pageants GOOD LUCK!
Taylor
October
8, 2009
September is officially the
shortest month ever! I feel like my year is moving in hyper-speed! Three
months of my reign as Miss Teen Texas is already gone and I am doing
everything I can to make the most of each opportunity I am given! I’ll be a
has-been before I know it, so I better live it up!
Baseball Diamonds
Cute baseball players and beautiful diamonds…what girl wouldn’t love
that? For those of you who don’t know,
Baseball Diamonds is the official
sponsor for the jewelry Kristin and I wear throughout the year. The owners,
David and Rebecca, are so generous and always assure that we are adorned
with the perfect jewelry for each outfit. They invited me to their showroom
at the Rangers stadium to be a guest in their hospitality suite. Once I got
there, David surprised me with a request to present the player of the month
with a diamond watch on the field before the game! Is that awesome or what!
Too bad the weather was terrible and the event got pushed back to later in
the week. But I still had a blast attending the game and meeting all of
their friends in the showroom! An ex-state titleholder was there as well and
we had a lot of fun sharing our Miss/Teen America stories and talking
pageant. Also, I can call myself a true Rangers fan now because Rebecca took
me down to get a customized jersey, my name on the back and everything!
Baseball Diamonds went above and beyond to welcome my family and I to their
suite and I am so appreciative to their generosity!
Lufkin Forest Festival
Every year the Lufkin cheer squads compete in the Forest Festival
cheerleading competition with other schools from surrounding areas. The
Varsity division had only five squads this year but the competitive
atmosphere is still so much fun. You know me…I can be a little competitive!
J My squad spent weeks preparing for our routine and put in countless extra
hours to insure that everything went perfect. The week before the
competition, we had a series of bad luck and four of our girls were injured
and one put on crutches. With one less cheerleader to work with, we made
many quick changes and everything fell together to make a great performance
that Saturday! We took home first place for the first time in the past 4
years! We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout and are back preparing
for football games and pep-rallies!
Kristin’s Homecoming
I went to Kristin’s homecoming earlier this month and had a blast
catching up with all who attended! I was asked to speak and announce Kristin
and her princess for the opening of the celebration. Kristin has been such
an encouraging Miss and I genuinely look up to her! We keep in touch as
often as possible, but let me tell you…she is one busy girl! She has done an
amazing job representing Texas thus far and I can’t wait to cheer her on in
Las Vegas in January. The event was fun for me because I got to bring a
friend from home to see what the pageant life is all about. I have been able
to include my friends in some of my experiences and love getting them
familiar with the organization. By the way, my friend Jesi from the
homecoming wasn’t my twin…I don’t think y’all want to handle two of me!
State Fair of Texas Starlight
Parade
I was asked by Bruce Wallace to attend the Texas State Fair and ride in the
Starlight Parade. Parades are one of my absolute favorite
appearances because I get to see so many people in such a short time…and I
think it’s hilarious when people ask me why I’m not waving the typical 1960
Miss America wave! Just not my thing, I just smile big and wave like
everyone else! J I rode in a Corvette so I felt especially pampered and had
an amazing time! I had the opportunity to meet the United States Marine Band
and take photos with the members. They only attend one state fair a year in
the country so it was an awesome experience! On a smaller note, I also met
the clowns in the parade, one of my personal favorites! I love being goofy
and fit right in! I was joined by Miss Midland Odessa Area, Miss San Antonio
and Miss Teen San Antonio—the Miss Texas Organization was well represented.
Everyone really had fun and I appreciate Mr. Wallace’s invitation and
enjoyed my time there. Afterward, I even got to ride the country’s largest
Ferris wheel and this crazy spinny-flippy-high ride with Allesa, one of my
friends from Lufkin. The fair was tons of fun and I am looking forward to
more appearances like it!
Taylor
September
8, 2009
August started out with a bang
with my homecoming hosted by my local franchise, Miss Plano Frisco
Organization. I couldn’t have asked for a better congratulations/ send off
party! MPFO did an amazing job organizing the decorations, the catering, and
the speakers. Even the M&M’s had my name on them…I thought that was pretty
official! It was encouraging to see all the people who came to show their
support, everyone from friends and family to directors and formers! It was
also cool to see the former Miss Texas’ and Miss Teen Texas’ that attended…I
am going to be one of them before I know it! Also, all three of my past Miss
titleholders were there: Kristie, Adrianna, and Kathryn. They all had to put
up with me for a year so they have that in common. Everyone who spoke did
such an amazing job and I appreciate all the nice things they said. When it
comes to making their girls feel special, Jan and Ricardo know exactly what
to do! One of my best friends from the pageant, BreAnna Young, spoke and
made me realize all of the wonderful life-long friends you make through this
organization. Towards the end, Shilah sang “Hero” to me and I almost fainted
because I don’t understand how someone can sound that good. I could work for
years and never make noises that sound pretty to anyone…that’s why I dance!
I received so many special gifts from all who attended and had more fun
opening them that night in the hotel room. In fact, most of it went on to
Orlando with me…including the beautiful luggage given to me by the MPFO
board donated by Kris Hobson with Bric’s Milano Luggage! The entire
homecoming was so enjoyable and perfect to get me ready for my week at MAOT.
(Click
here to see pictures from Taylor's Homecoming Celebration.)
My experience at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen is indescribable and unforgettable! Those are the words that come the closest to explaining my week in Orlando. During my time there, I endured more and slept less than I could have ever imagined! But every other girl was taking every step with me and we all relied on each other and ourselves for so much! We woke up at five and went to sleep at one together; we rehearsed and practiced together; and we laughed and goofed around together! Now, some of my very best friends live across the country and I know we will maintain these friendships. I grew up in hyper speed during that week and learned so much about responsibility and independence. Who knew I could wake up without my Mom screaming in my ear or throwing water on me?! Although we sprinted down the hall yelling “Texas!” and “Iowa!” for role call a few times, my roommate and I always managed to make it on time with all of our stuff. That was some kind of miracle! My very best friend from MAOT is Victoria from Tennessee (a.k.a. TOT, Thing 2, and any other nicknames we came up with while delirious after 8 hours of rehearsal!) I still talk to her every day and she is planning to come visit during Thanksgiving. I truly did make friends for life through the national pageant. Even during competition, we all continued to encourage and support each other. I was happy with my performance in every phase of competition and genuinely feel like I did the best of my ability. Interview felt so relaxed yet challenging, fitness fun as always, evening gown went great and I loved my onstage question, and I did my dance just as I imagined! Walking away from MAOT I have no bitterness because I would not change a thing and I know Jeanette will represent the organization well! I was really close to her throughout the week and have tons of pictures of us during all the events. She is not only stunningly beautiful but also intelligent and fresh…I can’t wait to see all she accomplishes this year. As for me, I am more than excited to come home as Miss Teen Texas! We have an amazing organization in Texas and I know this year has so much in store. I can’t thank those of you who attended the pageant enough because it is so encouraging to hear so many people cheering for you up on that stage! I felt like I had an entire army of supporters! I will always cherish and reminisce on my time at MAOT because I know it was truly a once in a lifetime experience. (Click here to see Taylor's photo blog from MAOT.)
Taylor
August
26, 2009
The night the Miss Teen Texas
crown was put on my head I thought I might pass out; I might as well have
because I don’t remember much of it. Kristen and I have tried to re-live the
moment many times but it seems all we can come up with is… “The confetti!
Grabbing hands! And waving! And smiling!” And beyond that, I cannot even
begin to describe the night. I felt like I was starring in my own movie!
We didn’t have long before we took our first pageant endurance test (a.k.a. meeting in Jean’s room that night and getting 1 hour of sleep before our first appearance). The funny thing is that when I woke up at 5 I was ready to hit the ground running a marathon if Stacy and Jean said to! I was pumped up on adrenaline and Coca Cola for that entire day!
4th
of July Parade
The morning after the pageant, Kristen and I rode in a fire engine red
trolley in the Arlington 4th of July parade, one of the largest in the state
of Texas! Although Kristen and I have competed in the pageant together for
the past three years, we never got really close. We learned a lot about each
other bright and early and immediately clicked! While we were riding in the
parade people were pointing at us and screaming “Oh my gosh! Miss Texas!
Miss Teen Texas!” and I would start looking for whom they were talking
about. And holy smokes! It was us! That’s when everything started to really
sink in…but that was a long process to be continued.
Burt
Grant Salon
Raquel at
Burt Grant Salon must be some kind of miracle worker because she managed
to make my hair look like I belonged on an Herbal Essence commercial! Yes I
was there for about six hours but she made it super fun and worth it in the
end. Can’t thank her enough!
Premiere Photography
When I arrived for my photo shoot at
Premiere Photography, Kelle and Dale were waiting with open arms. All in
a day’s work, they managed to capture my crown shot, official photo, ad
pages for Miss America’s Outstanding Teen pageant, and Kristen’s crown shot
and official photo. You can only imagine how picky a girl would be about a
picture she will be signing thousands of but Kelle pleased us with no
problems! She was a blast to work with…you should have seen us crawling
through bushes and into water fountains to get the perfect shot for my ads.
Coming Home as Miss Teen Texas!
I should have known my brothers would have something planned…they always
do! When I pulled in to my driveway, John Mark and Clarke and all their
friends were there waiting with banners the size of my house and fire works!
They made a huge paper
sign for me to run through and, although they cannot draw to save their
life, they drew a stick figure with a crown and printed, “Only Miss Teen
Texas can drive through this!” They are officially my biggest supporters and
talk about proud brothers! They are the best brothers any girl could ask
for!
Community Support
The day after I got home I did a TV
interview with KLTV
News. This was a first for me so I was a tad bit nervous, but I figured out
it’s not hard since I have about a thousand things to say! I also did a
newspaper interview with the Lufkin Daily News and made the front page in
Lufkin! My community has been so supportive through all of this and I can’t
thank them enough for following me on this journey. It really helps to
promote the organization when the media is so willing to get involved!
Ashley and Jennifer from Lenz Boutique
You two have done too much! Your designs never fail to amaze me and I
always feel my best when I am wearing your gowns and costumes. Thus far,
Lenz Boutique has either designed or helped me pick out 5 evening gowns,
multiple cocktail dress, and 2 talent costumes! And Ashley, you say you are
officially through with dance costumes haha, but you rock at it! Also, y’all
both worked together to design and pull together a production gown for me in
record time and everyone loved it at MAOT! Thanks again!
Dancing with Densil
As most of you know, I started from scratch with a brand new talent to
take to Miss America’s Outstanding Teen. While this might seem like this
would make it hard to prepare, it really was a boost for me because I was so
excited to get started on something new, improved, and different. Densil
Adams out of Dallas has choreographed my dance for the past two years for
Miss Teen Texas and I trust him 100% to give me a dance that has “it”. With
Stacy’s amazing production skills, Lynz’s extravagant costume design, and
Densil’s unique choreography, I got a dance that rocked! Darlene Atkinson
from Academy of Gymnastics’ and Dance taught me to dance to the ability I
have now, and believe me it wasn’t pretty when I started! She worked with me
everyday approaching the pageant and I can’t give her enough credit for all
her critiques and tweaks…even if I did want to pass out after practicing
with her for an hour! I can’t thank yall enough for your help because I know
for a fact that it topped anything I could have come up with!
Fitness with Larkin
I have known
Larkin Page since I was about 8 years old. I remember telling him then
that I eat cake and I always will! And sure enough! I still eat tons of cake
and chocolate, but don’t get me wrong, I burn it all off between track,
cheer, gymnastics, and dance. I finally got to work with Larkin and he did
something crazy! He shifted and turned me the littlest bit and all of the
sudden my body looked ten times better! He knows all the tricks and helped
me so much on my modeling. He is also the world’s best encourager and can
give a more motivational pep talk through a card than most people can in
person. Thanks to him, I felt completely comfortable and confident on stage
in fitness at MAOT.
Tara
Watson
Most of you remember Tara as Miss Texas 2000. She has been behind me
since I started participating in the pageant three years ago. She is so
supportive of all that I do and has helped me tremendously with the
interview phase of competition. Tara is an amazing speaker and role model
and has given me someone to look up to in the system. I can’t give her
enough credit for my overall interview award at Miss Teen Texas.
Jean
Magness
Jean is the official momma of pageants! She really does know anything
about everything and can answer any question you throw at her. I try to
picture what I would have looked like arriving at MAOT in Orlando without
her help…probably looking lost, dragging 15 suit cases full of everything
but what I needed, and most likely missing an earring and shoe. If there is
such thing as a professional packer, Jean definitely qualifies! I felt more
organized during such a stressful week than I have felt in my whole life!
Also, the woman can shop! I am not a shopper at heart so I was not looking
forward to that part. But she made everything so quick and productive that
it seemed effortless. And not only that, she also brought home my exact size
in skinny jeans when I can spend a month looking for some and still not find
them. It is pretty insanely awesome! Whether it be getting a mani/pedi or
laughing until we cry over something as simple as a cardboard box, I have
enjoyed Jean’s company every step of the way!
Stacy James Mayo
I don’t know where Stacy has been my whole life but she has pretty much
become my other half! We are just alike; it’s kind of scary sometimes. I
knew we were going to be trouble when we both made ridiculous faces in our
first picture together and we never even planned it! Stacy has been my rock
through all of this and I can always rely on her to be there to support me.
Stacy came down to stay at my house in Lufkin for a few nights and had no
problem fitting in. Within hours she was eating my daddy’s ribs and sitting
in the hot tub! We had tons of fun! Stacy has helped me so much in
preparation for MAOT and is always willing to devote her time to encouraging
me. I know how hard it must be to take time away from her adorable baby boy
and amazing husband, but she is always willing to give and give! Stacy
embodies any quality I could ask for in a teen director and I know she has
so much to offer to the organization. I feel so lucky to be her first girl
and know she will help make this year one to remember. I love you Stacy!
I can’t imagine what the next month holds!
Taylor
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