Hi Vermont!
So much to catch you up on! On Tuesday, August 11th, I headed out to sunny Orlando to cheer on Sarah Cramton at Miss America's Outstanding Teen! That Tuesday, Sarah performed her talent and I'm sad to say that I missed her beautiful rendition of "America The Beautiful!" I was sitting in the audience in awe of all of these outstanding young women gracing the stage, when right before Sarah was to perform, all of the Miss Contestants were escorted out of the audience to head backstage to be introduced on stage. It was such a bummer to miss her song, but I know she was awesome! I am proud to say that I got to see her compete in all of the other areas of on-stage competition, and Sarah truly shined! What a wonderful teen representative we have! And now, Sarah has the luxury of enjoying her year and attending appearances around the state without worrying about any competition! I cannot wait to continue hanging out with Sarah--she's our outstanding teen!
While in Orlando, I had the opportunity to meet all 52 women that I will be in Vegas with for Miss America! We were being filmed by TLC throughout the week, and had a great time making appearances and getting to know each other. On Wednesday, August 12th--we had a VIP tour of Universal Studios, where we never had to wait in line for a ride! What a treat! It has been years since I rode a rollercoaster and I'm proud to say that I went on every ride offered to us to go on--even The Hulk (and that was right after lunch too!) Speaking of lunch, we were fed an all-you-could-eat meal--and boy, did I eat! I use the excuse that I was "on vacation" to indulge in some delicious fried chicken, rice, a large coke, and chocolate cake! mmm....I also ate a fruit cup which balanced the meal haha. Another exciting appearance we made was at the Siegel Mansion where a fundraiser for the Miss America Organization was being held. It was nice to mingle and meet Florida residents, but what was really exciting and out-of-the-blue was the fact that Miss Vermont 1969 was the host of the event! Barbara West is an anchor in Orlando, Florida, and it was wonderful to meet a former Miss Vermont. Barbara is such a beautiful woman, it was great to have another Vermonter in the area! I also spotted 1 Vermont license plate while in the Sunshine State!
Wisconsin's Outstanding Teen is the new Miss America's Outstanding Teen--she was awesome on stage and I was blown away by her speaking abilities. Vermont should be very proud of our Sarah, she made some great friends and did a wonderful job representing us throughout the entire week! I'm proud of you Sarah!!
While in Florida, I made some great friends and connections that I am so thankful for. I am going to be working with Gregory Ellenburg for my Miss America Wardrobe, and I couldn't be happier! He has been such a wonderful resource, and the gowns I tried on were simply stunning. His guidance means the world to me, thank you Gregory!
I'm sorry this blog is so late! I had the entire entry written and somehow it wouldn't save and I lost the draft. I'm sorry that some of the details are skipped on this post, but feel free to e-mail me if you ever have any questions for me! My e-mail is missvermont09@yahoo.com
I'm currently at Assumption College where I just finished two weeks of Leadership Training. I have gained some great skills and tips that I can hopefully share with Vermont students when I begin my school tour to promote my platform of "Youth Empowerment--Leaders of Today!"
On September 12th, I fly out to NYC to learn my talent routine! September 14th is the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization Golf Tournament, then I have a voice lesson with Shyla so that I can be ready to sing at the MAO New England Conference in Framingham, MA on the 19th/20th!
Classes started today for me, and I'm about to hit the gym for the second time today. Things are coming together nicely, and I cannot wait to get back to Vermont soon!
~Laura
p.s.-I am hoping to begin posting more frequently! Stay tuned--many exciting things coming up!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Appearances
Hello Vermont!
It's currently 11:30pm (I'm sure it will be much later by the time I finish this post, as I have always been a slow writer), and I have no idea why I'm not taking the opportunity to catch up on some sleep. For the first time in weeks, I get to sleep past 6:30 am tomorrow--as I don't have to leave the house until 9 am tomorrow! I've always considered myself a night-owl, and after my freshmen year of college, I have not had any classes before 10am. Now that I'm Miss Vermont, a drastic switch in my sleep schedule has occurred, which leaves me jumping for joy anytime I can sleep until 8 am! I'm not sure if that makes sense, but it makes me laugh that I now consider "8 am" as "sleeping-in." I guess I'm choosing to stay awake because I've had such a jam-packed week and I'm eager to share!
Waking up at 6 am on Monday morning, my mom and I headed over to meet up with my nonni in South Burlington. Switching vehicles, Nonni drove us down to Natick Massachusetts where we set out on a day full of shopping! The trip was 4 hours down and 4 hours back, and my grandmother drove the entire way--she's not your average grandmother, my nonni is energetic, on-top-of-things and my official organizer! But back to the story--we drove for 8 hours in total, but ended up buying some great items for my upcoming trip to Orlando, Florida! I leave for Orlando on Tuesday and will be there until Sunday, August 16th. While in Florida, I will be cheering on our Outstanding Teen, meeting all of my Miss America sisters, and filming for two days with TLC (I have absolutely no details about what will be filmed, but I'm excited!). The trip to Natick was a great girls trip--the Natick Mall is the biggest mall I've ever been to, filled with so many shops that are not available in Vermont. It was almost overwhelming, but I feel good about my purchases. And although the ride was long, it was productive! I was able to brainstorm for my fundraisers, organize myself by writing out multiple "to-do" lists, and I even had an interview over the phone. I really do enjoy long car rides.
Tuesday, August 4th was such a fun day! Firstly, finishing my Miss America paperwork was a huge plus--but that night was National Night Out in South Burlington--an appearance I have been looking forward to since June! As a young girl, I began attending National Night Out, and to be there as Miss Vermont was fantastic! The night began with a parade, where I was able to ride in a green convertible--very appropriate for Vermont! My driver Mr. Long and his daughter Abi were great hosts to myself and Vermont's Junior Miss 2009, Alex Poirier, who rode on the back of the car with me! The parade was so fun, and it was great to see so many familiar faces throughout the night. I grew up in South Burlington and this was my very first appearance in my hometown. It meant so much to be surrounded by fellow South Burlington residents for the night--their love, support and excitement for my accomplishment was incredible! I met so many sweet and talented children that night. I had the opportunity to speak to the audience about my plans for the year, and I signed many many autographs with my new autograph cards! Thanks Champlain Valley Printing. Also, I got to test out my new car magnets for this parade-Thank you Watson family for your generous donation. The car magnets came out beautifully! The night ended up some beautiful fireworks--it was just such a wonderful appearance. I would relive that night over and over if I could. P.s.--I also met Governor Jim Douglas for the first time as Miss Vermont. We chatted about how we will most likely be seeing each other frequently this year--I can't wait!
Wednesday--I went to the Red Clover Salon and had a great session with Mary! Immediately after being pampered, I headed over to Exercise America where I was prepared to destroy the beautifully styled-hair I just had with an intense workout--instead, over running on the treadmill, David and I decided that we needed a Subway Sandwich...hahah so we ended our workout very quickly and talked about nutrition instead while munching on turkey subs. mmmm. I made up for that work out by running 4 additional miles when I got home.
Today was a busy day as well! My morning started with many many e-mails, then a great session with Exercise America, followed by a trip to Staples where my nonni and I printed a 100 flyers for my bottle drive this weekend. After a quick lunch break, we headed to Church Street to pick up one of my gowns for Orlando from Silver Threads (need something altered? Ask for Mindy--she's fantastic!), then picked up a donation from Kiss the Cook for my upcoming fundraiser, and then headed back to Nonni's house. I answered more e-mails (I'm currently serving as my own business manager) and then took a nice walk around the neighborhood where I handed out the bottle drive flyers. At 6pm I was invited to the Red Clover Salon for their "Expressions of Beauty" event for Vermont teenagers. It was a really neat event, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. I had the opportunity to chat with girls about the meaning of beauty, which led to such an interesting discussion. Thanks Red Clover Salon for inviting me to such a unique event!
FUNDRAISER UPDATES!!
Saturday August 8th--I'm hosting a bottle drive in South Burlington--every can counts!
Monday September 14th--I am hosting a charity golf tournament at Rocky Ridge where the proceeds from the event will go towards the Children's Miracle Network and the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization
Saturday September 26th--Calcutta! I will be hosting a very fun event, with many many prizes donated by such wonderful local Vermont companies. The grand prize for the Calcutta is $2,000. Tickets are $100/couple---more information to come!
Oh my goodness, I'm exhausted! It's 12:15 am now. I have more to write, but I suppose I'll just have to wait to share everything occurring right now! It's been such a busy and exhausting week, but I'm loving it!
Goodnight Vermont,
~Laura
It's currently 11:30pm (I'm sure it will be much later by the time I finish this post, as I have always been a slow writer), and I have no idea why I'm not taking the opportunity to catch up on some sleep. For the first time in weeks, I get to sleep past 6:30 am tomorrow--as I don't have to leave the house until 9 am tomorrow! I've always considered myself a night-owl, and after my freshmen year of college, I have not had any classes before 10am. Now that I'm Miss Vermont, a drastic switch in my sleep schedule has occurred, which leaves me jumping for joy anytime I can sleep until 8 am! I'm not sure if that makes sense, but it makes me laugh that I now consider "8 am" as "sleeping-in." I guess I'm choosing to stay awake because I've had such a jam-packed week and I'm eager to share!
Waking up at 6 am on Monday morning, my mom and I headed over to meet up with my nonni in South Burlington. Switching vehicles, Nonni drove us down to Natick Massachusetts where we set out on a day full of shopping! The trip was 4 hours down and 4 hours back, and my grandmother drove the entire way--she's not your average grandmother, my nonni is energetic, on-top-of-things and my official organizer! But back to the story--we drove for 8 hours in total, but ended up buying some great items for my upcoming trip to Orlando, Florida! I leave for Orlando on Tuesday and will be there until Sunday, August 16th. While in Florida, I will be cheering on our Outstanding Teen, meeting all of my Miss America sisters, and filming for two days with TLC (I have absolutely no details about what will be filmed, but I'm excited!). The trip to Natick was a great girls trip--the Natick Mall is the biggest mall I've ever been to, filled with so many shops that are not available in Vermont. It was almost overwhelming, but I feel good about my purchases. And although the ride was long, it was productive! I was able to brainstorm for my fundraisers, organize myself by writing out multiple "to-do" lists, and I even had an interview over the phone. I really do enjoy long car rides.
Tuesday, August 4th was such a fun day! Firstly, finishing my Miss America paperwork was a huge plus--but that night was National Night Out in South Burlington--an appearance I have been looking forward to since June! As a young girl, I began attending National Night Out, and to be there as Miss Vermont was fantastic! The night began with a parade, where I was able to ride in a green convertible--very appropriate for Vermont! My driver Mr. Long and his daughter Abi were great hosts to myself and Vermont's Junior Miss 2009, Alex Poirier, who rode on the back of the car with me! The parade was so fun, and it was great to see so many familiar faces throughout the night. I grew up in South Burlington and this was my very first appearance in my hometown. It meant so much to be surrounded by fellow South Burlington residents for the night--their love, support and excitement for my accomplishment was incredible! I met so many sweet and talented children that night. I had the opportunity to speak to the audience about my plans for the year, and I signed many many autographs with my new autograph cards! Thanks Champlain Valley Printing. Also, I got to test out my new car magnets for this parade-Thank you Watson family for your generous donation. The car magnets came out beautifully! The night ended up some beautiful fireworks--it was just such a wonderful appearance. I would relive that night over and over if I could. P.s.--I also met Governor Jim Douglas for the first time as Miss Vermont. We chatted about how we will most likely be seeing each other frequently this year--I can't wait!
Wednesday--I went to the Red Clover Salon and had a great session with Mary! Immediately after being pampered, I headed over to Exercise America where I was prepared to destroy the beautifully styled-hair I just had with an intense workout--instead, over running on the treadmill, David and I decided that we needed a Subway Sandwich...hahah so we ended our workout very quickly and talked about nutrition instead while munching on turkey subs. mmmm. I made up for that work out by running 4 additional miles when I got home.
Today was a busy day as well! My morning started with many many e-mails, then a great session with Exercise America, followed by a trip to Staples where my nonni and I printed a 100 flyers for my bottle drive this weekend. After a quick lunch break, we headed to Church Street to pick up one of my gowns for Orlando from Silver Threads (need something altered? Ask for Mindy--she's fantastic!), then picked up a donation from Kiss the Cook for my upcoming fundraiser, and then headed back to Nonni's house. I answered more e-mails (I'm currently serving as my own business manager) and then took a nice walk around the neighborhood where I handed out the bottle drive flyers. At 6pm I was invited to the Red Clover Salon for their "Expressions of Beauty" event for Vermont teenagers. It was a really neat event, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. I had the opportunity to chat with girls about the meaning of beauty, which led to such an interesting discussion. Thanks Red Clover Salon for inviting me to such a unique event!
FUNDRAISER UPDATES!!
Saturday August 8th--I'm hosting a bottle drive in South Burlington--every can counts!
Monday September 14th--I am hosting a charity golf tournament at Rocky Ridge where the proceeds from the event will go towards the Children's Miracle Network and the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization
Saturday September 26th--Calcutta! I will be hosting a very fun event, with many many prizes donated by such wonderful local Vermont companies. The grand prize for the Calcutta is $2,000. Tickets are $100/couple---more information to come!
Oh my goodness, I'm exhausted! It's 12:15 am now. I have more to write, but I suppose I'll just have to wait to share everything occurring right now! It's been such a busy and exhausting week, but I'm loving it!
Goodnight Vermont,
~Laura
Sunday, August 2, 2009
End of July Update!
Hello Vermont,
I am writing to you after a fantastic long weekend with my family--although I am exhausted from all of the water-tubing, sunshine, and bbqs; I am also rejuvenated and ready to share with you some of the experiences I've had since I last updated. Each summer, the Hall side of my family gets together in Burlington, Vermont (all 25+ of us) for a family reunion. I come from a very close-knit family, and although the Halls are spread across Vermont, Massachusetts, Washington, Georgia and Ohio--we always find ways to see each other in Vermont--another reason why I love this state so much. Vermont=family. I just had to start this blog with a shout-out to the Halls, who have been tremendous supporters! I'm sure there will soon be photos floating around on Facebook of several family members wearing the crown and sash! Thank you all for a great weekend!
Last Sunday (July 26th)- Sarah Cramton and I traveled down to Boston to participate in Vermont Day at Fenway Park! My family and I are big Red Sox fans, so when the press release announcing Vermont Day surfaced, I immediately jumped on the opportunity to be a part of the experience! After sending out several e-mails, Cavin Heath from NESN granted my wish! He gave Sarah and I an opportunity of a lifetime by arranging for us to announce the starting line-up! Cavin--I need to publicly thank you for giving me such a memorable day! It was absolutely amazing!
I woke up at 4am on the 26th to drive down to Lebanon, NH where I met up with Sarah and her dad. Mr. Cramton was our "chauffeur/body guard/chaperone" for the day, and was also a big help with rehearsing our lines. During the entire four-hour ride, I was wishing away the rain clouds that the Vermont weather report had predicted. To prepare for a possible rain-shower, I wore pants, and packed a heavy-duty rain jacket, only to find that that was completely unnecessary. It was so hot in Boston! After a summer full of rainy days and cool nights, we found ourselves in one of the most hot, humid days--the type of day where you borrow a towel from the Red Sox dugout to wipe the sweat off your face. haha--well, that's what Sarah did! And she got to keep the towel too! Sarah and I knew ahead of time that we'd be announcing the line-up, but we had no idea that we would be sitting in the dugout while the Red Sox warmed up before the game. It was absolutely surreal! To be sitting on the bench where so many Red Sox legends have sat, (including my crush Jacoby Ellsbury)--wow! I immediately met Heidi Watney in the dugout, who was eating some Lake Champlain Chocolates, and then after filming the line-up, I met David Ortiz, also known as Big Papi! Filming the line-up was so much fun, I really enjoy being in front of the camera.
After we finished filming, Cavin Heath took Sarah and I on a tour of the NESN bus where they produce the games we see on TV. The NESN crew were so friendly and welcoming, and let us see a preview of the line-up before it was aired.
Sarah and I had incredible seats thanks to Mr. Mike LaVoie, who graciously donated our seats! This was my 4th time attending a Red Sox game, and although they unfortunately lost, it was such a special game to be at. The crowd was filled with Vermonters who continuously came up to me throughout the day to chat about the state we all love so much. I know I'll say this over and over, but the people of Vermont really make this title so enjoyable and meaningful. Knowing that Vermont has such a "small-town feeling" and thrives on community, it was great to see that the same remained true outside of our state lines in Boston. It was an honor to meet so many Red Sox-loving Vermonters!
This past week has been BUSY! Paperwork, fundraiser-planning, wardrobe shopping, making travel arrangements for Orlando, organizing my schedule, getting autograph cards made, and working out every day! It's been exhausting, but a very special thank you goes out to my Nonni! She has been there through it all, and is more help than she realizes!
After eating at Al's (my favorite cheeseburger joint) this weekend, I think it's time for me to go get some extra exercise.
Tomorrow I head down to Massachusetts with my mom and Nonni to finish up my wardrobe for Orlando! I leave on the 11th to go support Sarah at Miss America's Outstanding Teen! I will also be meeting all of my Miss America sisters and I couldn't be more thrilled!!
I recently received the below information, and I wanted to spread the word! Let's all support Sarah as she competes at Nationals! She has been such a delight to get to know over the past month and I know she is ready for this incredible experience! She has the right mindset and has been working hard to represent Vermont to the best of her ability! GO SARAH!!
"Sarah Cramton will be representing Vermont in Orlando, Florida at the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition from August 6th through August 15th. Her address while in Orlando will be: Miss Vermont’s Outstanding Teen; Sarah Cramton; C/O Rosen Centre Hotel; 9840 International Drive; Orlando, FL, 32819-8122.· It is strongly suggested that all gifts, letters, and cards arrive at the hotel prior to Thursday, August 13th, 2009. After this date, they cannot guarantee their delivery.· All gifts, letters, and cards will be screened by security prior to pickup or delivery to the contestant. For security purposes, and lack of space in the hotel room’s flowers will NOT be allowed, however gifts, baskets, and other small items will be appreciated. "
Talk to you soon Vermont!
~Laura
I am writing to you after a fantastic long weekend with my family--although I am exhausted from all of the water-tubing, sunshine, and bbqs; I am also rejuvenated and ready to share with you some of the experiences I've had since I last updated. Each summer, the Hall side of my family gets together in Burlington, Vermont (all 25+ of us) for a family reunion. I come from a very close-knit family, and although the Halls are spread across Vermont, Massachusetts, Washington, Georgia and Ohio--we always find ways to see each other in Vermont--another reason why I love this state so much. Vermont=family. I just had to start this blog with a shout-out to the Halls, who have been tremendous supporters! I'm sure there will soon be photos floating around on Facebook of several family members wearing the crown and sash! Thank you all for a great weekend!
Last Sunday (July 26th)- Sarah Cramton and I traveled down to Boston to participate in Vermont Day at Fenway Park! My family and I are big Red Sox fans, so when the press release announcing Vermont Day surfaced, I immediately jumped on the opportunity to be a part of the experience! After sending out several e-mails, Cavin Heath from NESN granted my wish! He gave Sarah and I an opportunity of a lifetime by arranging for us to announce the starting line-up! Cavin--I need to publicly thank you for giving me such a memorable day! It was absolutely amazing!
I woke up at 4am on the 26th to drive down to Lebanon, NH where I met up with Sarah and her dad. Mr. Cramton was our "chauffeur/body guard/chaperone" for the day, and was also a big help with rehearsing our lines. During the entire four-hour ride, I was wishing away the rain clouds that the Vermont weather report had predicted. To prepare for a possible rain-shower, I wore pants, and packed a heavy-duty rain jacket, only to find that that was completely unnecessary. It was so hot in Boston! After a summer full of rainy days and cool nights, we found ourselves in one of the most hot, humid days--the type of day where you borrow a towel from the Red Sox dugout to wipe the sweat off your face. haha--well, that's what Sarah did! And she got to keep the towel too! Sarah and I knew ahead of time that we'd be announcing the line-up, but we had no idea that we would be sitting in the dugout while the Red Sox warmed up before the game. It was absolutely surreal! To be sitting on the bench where so many Red Sox legends have sat, (including my crush Jacoby Ellsbury)--wow! I immediately met Heidi Watney in the dugout, who was eating some Lake Champlain Chocolates, and then after filming the line-up, I met David Ortiz, also known as Big Papi! Filming the line-up was so much fun, I really enjoy being in front of the camera.
After we finished filming, Cavin Heath took Sarah and I on a tour of the NESN bus where they produce the games we see on TV. The NESN crew were so friendly and welcoming, and let us see a preview of the line-up before it was aired.
Sarah and I had incredible seats thanks to Mr. Mike LaVoie, who graciously donated our seats! This was my 4th time attending a Red Sox game, and although they unfortunately lost, it was such a special game to be at. The crowd was filled with Vermonters who continuously came up to me throughout the day to chat about the state we all love so much. I know I'll say this over and over, but the people of Vermont really make this title so enjoyable and meaningful. Knowing that Vermont has such a "small-town feeling" and thrives on community, it was great to see that the same remained true outside of our state lines in Boston. It was an honor to meet so many Red Sox-loving Vermonters!
This past week has been BUSY! Paperwork, fundraiser-planning, wardrobe shopping, making travel arrangements for Orlando, organizing my schedule, getting autograph cards made, and working out every day! It's been exhausting, but a very special thank you goes out to my Nonni! She has been there through it all, and is more help than she realizes!
After eating at Al's (my favorite cheeseburger joint) this weekend, I think it's time for me to go get some extra exercise.
Tomorrow I head down to Massachusetts with my mom and Nonni to finish up my wardrobe for Orlando! I leave on the 11th to go support Sarah at Miss America's Outstanding Teen! I will also be meeting all of my Miss America sisters and I couldn't be more thrilled!!
I recently received the below information, and I wanted to spread the word! Let's all support Sarah as she competes at Nationals! She has been such a delight to get to know over the past month and I know she is ready for this incredible experience! She has the right mindset and has been working hard to represent Vermont to the best of her ability! GO SARAH!!
"Sarah Cramton will be representing Vermont in Orlando, Florida at the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition from August 6th through August 15th. Her address while in Orlando will be: Miss Vermont’s Outstanding Teen; Sarah Cramton; C/O Rosen Centre Hotel; 9840 International Drive; Orlando, FL, 32819-8122.· It is strongly suggested that all gifts, letters, and cards arrive at the hotel prior to Thursday, August 13th, 2009. After this date, they cannot guarantee their delivery.· All gifts, letters, and cards will be screened by security prior to pickup or delivery to the contestant. For security purposes, and lack of space in the hotel room’s flowers will NOT be allowed, however gifts, baskets, and other small items will be appreciated. "
Talk to you soon Vermont!
~Laura
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