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