Miss VT in NYC!

What an incredible weekend I just had, Vermont!

I woke up at 3:30am on Saturday morning to make it to the airport in time for my 6am flight to New York City! My mom and step-dad joined me on this journey and I am so thankful for their support and great sense of direction—without them traveling with me, I know that wouldn’t make it far out of the JFK airport. Coming from Vermont, where our biggest city of Burlington only has, what, 30-something thousand people?—the city is bit overwhelming, but it’s exciting! We traveled all over the city, and it seemed like we took every form of transportation that day except for boat. I had my first subway experience, and it wasn’t all that bad--except for the fact that the line we thought we were traveling on switched halfway through (luckily there are plenty of cabs in the city!) We did so much walking throughout the day that when I ordered a BBQ pulled-pork sandwich with fries at the Hard-Rock Café, I did not feel guilty!

The purpose of the NY trip was to learn the choreography for my talent routine that I will perform at Miss America! I met with my incredible choreographer, Shea, and her assistant Lael, for five hours and had an absolute blast! I love my dance and cannot wait to perform it on stage! (after I work on perfecting it of course!) I head back to NYC in December, and I’m already excited to see the Christmas lights and decorations that the city has to offer.

Our first mission when we arrived in the city was to purchase a pair of dance shoes—but not just any dance shoe…I went to La Duca where I got a pair of shoes from a store that the majority of Broadway stars purchase their shoes from! I am very happy with my purchase, I feel like I could be on Broadway when I wear these shoes, and what is even more impressive is that I did not get a single blister after dancing in them for the first time!

After that mission was accomplished, my parents and I wandered around the city, mostly the Times Square area, and we saw Radio City Music Hall which was in the process of being set up for the MTV VMAs. (It’s weird to think that just 24hours later, the controversy with Taylor Swift and Kayne West occurred. And while I’m talking about the VMAs—I definitely did not get inspired by any of Lady Gaga’s outfit choices, so no worries about my Miss America wardrobe! haha)

While in the city, we got stuck on the side of the street while a parade passed by, twice. Two parades in the same area in one day. I also almost got sideswiped by several couples wearing “Dash for the Diamond” T-shirts—which apparently was a NYC version of the “Amazing Race” where couples were racing to win the diamond engagement ring of their dreams. Gotta love NYC!

I really had a great trip to New York. I love all of the fashion, lights, and tall buildings. But, at the end of the very long and exhausting day, I was really happy to breathe in the crisp fresh Vermont air and sleep in my own bed at home. What a day!

On Sunday, I attended the final day of the “Miles for Wishes” event sponsored by the Make-A-Wish-Foundation. Over the course of 2 days, Vermont participants walked/ran 20 miles in order to raise money for the wonderful charity. I had the privilege of standing at the finish line, where I got to cheer on the runners and present them with a medallion as they crossed the line. I have a hard enough time running 3 miles—I was so proud of everyone who spent their weekend devoted to this charity and conquering some major mileage. The Make-A-Wish-Foundation of Vermont will be celebrating their 500th wish on October 17th. That’s absolutely incredible! I hope to partner with this organization throughout my year. I was truly inspired.

I am currently back at school, writing from my on-campus apartment. On Friday I head down to Framingham, Massachusetts (only a half hour away from my college) to attend the New England MAO Conference. It will be wonderful to reunite with my New England Miss America sisters, and Miss America Katie Stam! I also look forward to seeing several of the wonderful young women who participated in Miss Vermont this year! I recently looked over the itinerary and this weekend is going to be filled with many exciting opportunities and information! Can’t wait!

I had my first spinning class today, and that really wiped me out. Time for bed!

Have a wonderful week, friends!

~Laura

I just had to include this photo of my Grandpa and me! Grandpa--you are such a major role model in my life. Thank you for telling me I look like Miss America!

Productive Friday!

After spending the night battling allergies, tossing and turning, and unable to get a full dose of shut-eye, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I was able to accomplish today while running on only a couple hours of sleep. Today was jam-packed, but after being at college for a couple weeks, I knew I had to make the most of my long weekend here in Vermont. I love being home, and I'm so glad that I will be in Vermont on a regular basis again. My college courses are conveniently set up so that I have classes Tuesday--Thursday, leaving me with a full 4 days in the Green Mountain State each week. It's a four hour commute from college to home, but it's so worth it! I'm so thankful that Assumption College is so supportive of me, and I'm proud to be participating in a program that emphasizes the importance of education. Being a full-time senior in college where I also hold an executive position in the Student Government, while being Miss Vermont has made each and every day so busy, but it's so exciting and meaningful! I'm so thankful for all of the wonderful opportunities and experiences that I'm having this year, and I'm putting my all in everything I do. (So I don't mind losing a few hours of sleep here and there)

But back to today! I woke up around 6:30am, got ready and met up with my Nonni, who generously volunteered to be my traveling companion all day (Thanks Nonni!) We started by meeting up with one of my new sponsors, Michelle O'Brien, who is giving me electrolysis treatments (this may be a little bit of too much detail, but I'm never going to have to shave my armpits again! This makes me jump up and down with excitement!) I went into my appointment not knowing what to expect. While in the waiting room I read an informational brochure which made my stomach start to turn when I found out that these procedures use needles (for some reason I thought lasers were used). But as soon as I met Michelle she made me feel very relaxed and answered all of my questions. When the treatment started, I was amazed to find that there was no discomfort--it was a really easy treatment, especially since Michelle and I just chatted the entire time! She's going to Vegas soon for a conference--so I can't wait to hear about her experience in Miss America's host city.

At 10:45am, I headed to downtown Burlington to meet up with Cynthea at Cynthea's Spa. Cynthea is such a wonderful sponsor! Today she shaped my eyebrows beautifully (which with my eyebrows is no easy task!) and then I had my makeup done right outside on Church Street while shoppers were passing by. I served as a demonstration for Cynthea's promotional event that she had going on today. Anyone who was interested was able to get a free 5-minute makeover. Cynthea was willing to donate her time to help Vermonters know how to get a healthy, natural glow in 5 minutes or less. It was a neat experience and a great event. Cynthea can be found on Facebook and Twitter--you should definitely check out her pages!

After looking fabulous with my makeover, I hit a bit of frustration when my Nonni and I encountered some issues with modern-day technology. To make a long story short, we had to travel to several locations to print up some flyers and tickets for our big fundraiser that's happening in two weeks! brief description below:

Miss Vermont Calcutta: September 26th, at the RVA in Winooski. 6pm cocktail hour, 7pm all-you-can-eat dinner, 8pm the Calcutta begins! Tickets are $100/couple. Tons of prizes will be given away, and every 10th ball pulled will automatically win a prize! Prizes include an overnight hotel stay, restaurant gift certificates, golf bag and greens fees, and much much more! Grand Prize--minimum of $2,000 CASH prize. For every 30 tickets sold, the grand prize increases by $1,000. (SPREAD THE WORD!) Two raffles will occur during the night: 1 ball will be raffled off after 50 balls are pulled out of the game, and 1 ball will be raffled off to be guaranteed to be in the Top 10 remaining balls. Live entertainment, and the best part is that the proceeds of the event will be going to The Children's Miracle Network and the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization. E-mail me at missvermont09@yahoo.com for ticket information!

In the afternoon I headed over to Eternity Web to meet with the company that sponsors the Miss Vermont wesite. I will be in charge of updating our website for the time-being, and it was great to meet with John to learn how to update the site! I hope to be able to start making changes to the site this week!

Wow, I just looked at the time and I really gotta hit the hay. I have so much more that I'd love to share about today, but I really need to rest up for tomorrow! I will be getting up at 3:45am tomorrow to catch a plane to New York City. My mom , stepdad Mike and I will be spending the day in the Big Apple and will be returning back to Vermont before the clock strikes midnight. I've never taken a plane to a destination and back home in one day before--it's weird to think that I'll be walking on a plane without having to check any luggage! But back tomorrow, why am I going to NYC? I'm going to learn my MISS AMERICA TALENT ROUTINE! I am so excited to finally learn the dance that will be the most important solo performance of my life! I absolutely love my talent song, and I know that the dance will be wonderful, I can already feel it! I have an incredible choreographer, and what better place to learn a Broadway jazz routine than right in Broadway?!


aww, I love the city!

Have a wonderful and safe weekend! The weather channel says that it's going to rain in NY tomorrow, but I'm staying positive and dreaming of sunshine!

Warmly,

~Laura

Photos from the Year!

Hello Vermont!

I have finally figured out how to upload some photos (I know, it took me long enough!)--here are some highlights from my year so far...more to come!

Orlando!

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!

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

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

Is it already Monday?

While growing up, especially in high school, the question above became a part of my weekly routine. Somehow the weekend always flew by, leaving me to question that they actually existed as my alarm clock interrupted my much needed sleep. Is it already Monday?

Today, as Miss Vermont, I ask the same question. Only, instead of finding myself wondering where the weekend went, I'm wondering where the week went? As I am adjusting more and more to my new title, I'm finding that I am living the longest days but having the shortest weeks. The weeks are flying by, I cannot believe it's been over 3 weeks since being crowned Miss Vermont; pretty soon it'll be a whole month! But I have to tell you something, although the weeks are flying by, each day of being Miss Vermont has been such a blessing and I am carrying such distinct separate memories from each day. This past week has had a lot of wonderful memories--I'll share some of the highlights with you.

Just to warn you, I'm probably going to go out of order--why? why not?

Sunday, July 19th: While wearing my VIP pass (I'm not trying to sound smug...it was just soo awesome!), my mom and I arrived at the WOKO Country Music Festival where I was signed up to volunteer at one of the merchandise tents. Wearing the VIP pass was so exciting because I have attended this very music festival for years--and to now be attending as Miss Vermont was an incredible experience. As soon as we got through the gate and parked, my mom and I ran into Ashley (Miss VT 08) and Mrs. Wheeler--it was nice to catch up with them and they gave my mom and I some helpful advice. Ashley sang the National Anthem that day--how cool!

This music festival was special because it was serving as a send-off party for many of the Vermont troops that will be serving our country. It was such an honor to meet many of these individuals that will be deployed soon, and I hope they know how thankful we are for their service.

From 12pm-2pm, I volunteered at a merchandise table/donation table to raise money for the families of the Vermont National Guard. It was great to chat with fellow Vermonters, and enjoy the nice summer day! (Finally no rain!) I was told throughout the day that my photo was going to go on different people's facebook pages--so be on the look-out. Knowing how small our state is, it's very possible that I met some of your friends yesterday! haha. Speaking of friends--I ran into many familiar faces yesterday! It was great to see some of my girlfriends--Christine, Heidi and Maria--along with my first dance teacher, Angie Nulty! I also ran into 2 Miss Vermont/Outstanding Teen girls--Alayna Westcom and Erin Connor!

Keith Anderson was one of the performers yesterday, and I was able to get a little shout-out from him as I went to the front of the stage to take his picture. He pointed to my crown and said something that I couldn't make out during his song--but nonetheless, as a country music fan, it was exciting! --Before I change events, I need to thank my mom for being my chaperone for the day!

(On Sunday, I also chose my talent song!! As soon as it is confirmed, I will let you in on what I'll be performing on the Miss America stage!)

On Thursday, July 16th--I visited the Red Clover Salon for the first time as Miss Vermont, and I met my hairstylist for the year! Her name is Mary, and she is soo awesome! I really appreciate this special sponsor, because I need some major hair help! As of right now, I have 2 hair styles--I either wear my hair completely down, or up in a ponytail. I'm sure after meeting with Mary, I'll have some more styles to work with! Thank you Red Clover for your generous support!

On Friday, July 17th, I met with Wayne Tarr in St. Albans, to take my official head shots for Miss America! Wayne was soo easy going and fun to work with! I had so much fun in front of the camera and I can't wait to see the photos! Thank you Wayne!

I have been working out at Exercise America with David every day! And after I finish this blog, I will be getting ready to do some more working out! I am on a time crunch with my paperwork so any free moment that I have, I have been working on getting that all done so it can be completed in a timely fashion.

I just booked my tickets for Orlando! I will be there August 11th-16th to cheer on our outstanding teen, Sarah Cramton! Sarah has been working hard and I know she will be FANTASTIC at Miss America's Outstanding Teen!

My step-dad Mike has been amazing with helping me plan two very big fundraisers. He has been calling companies all over Vermont in request of some prize donations, and we have had great results! The first event--our Charity Golf Tournament will be September 14th! Mark your calendars! More information on our second fundraising event soon!

Nonni--you get the ultimate shout out and thank you for this week! My nonni has been incredible--serving as both chauffeur and chaperone! She is on top of everything and I really appreciate all of her help!

It's a beautiful sunny day in Vermont today--I hope everyone is enjoying it!

~Laura

p.s.--photos have been updated on my facebook. Please friend Laura Elizabeth Hall if you're interested!