Spring Cleaning and some Catching up!

Wow—I am in desperate need of a blog entry! So much has happened, time has flown and I cannot believe that I have less than 2 months before I crown Miss Vermont 2010! I also cannot believe that I have less than a month left as a college student! I graduate May 15th. What an incredibly busy year this has been—it’s very bizarre to think that come June 6th I will be starting a fresh chapter in my life. So much change and transitioning is going on right now for me-- It’s a combination of scary and exciting. If my life were a book, there would be a cliff-hanger after every page—there is no certain plan for my life after college/my reign—but I know that I will be doing something great. We’ll have to wait and see what it is!
The past four years I have worked hard to be a good student and a strong student leader. I have worked hard to be the best Laura Hall that I can be, and a great Miss America (well, that was the goal!). These were the major focuses in my life starting at the age of 18. Every day I thought about what I needed to do to work towards these goals—I lived each day with these goals in mind. I guess it just really is bizarre for me to think that very soon I am going to have to start working towards something else. But that’s what makes life exciting. I’m a very ambitious and determined person—I’m looking forward to seeing what I aim to pursue next and what kind of journeys I will take. I will forever be grateful and proud of the skills and experiences I’ve gained through my Miss America experience. I feel empowered and motivated to do big things! But again, I’m in that limbo phase where nothing after June 5th is certain—so in the meantime, I’m just trying to enjoy each day, live in the moment, and make as many memories as possible.

Sorry for that rant! Now back to updates!

Back in March, during my spring break from college, I jam-packed my days with Miss Vermont activities. From attending a production meeting for the Miss VT 2010 Pageant, to meeting with my director, to visiting sponsors to Mettawee Mania and the Change Round Up for the Vermont Children’s Hospital. What a fun, crazy week!

Mettawee Mania is an annual talent show in Pawlet, Vermont, and Miss Vermont is invited to emcee and perform at the event every year. Rod Hawkins, who is the producer of the event, was also one of the judges who gave me the honor of becoming Miss Vermont 2009. It was wonderful to catch up with him and meet his wonderful wife Deb, and their son Luke. The Hawkins Family were so gracious and offered for my mother and I to stay with them for the weekend while in Pawlet. The small town is about 2 hours away from Burlington, so it was nice to have a comfortable place to stay while at these weekend-long appearance. I had the privilege of staying in the Hawkins Family’s very own “Miss Vermont” room---a guest room that is filled with photos of former Miss Vermonts who have helped out with Mettawee Mania. It is so neat to think that my photo will be on a wall in that bedroom. What a neat tradition.
I arrived in Pawlet on Friday, March 12th, at 9am. As soon as I got into town, I spent the next three hours giving school presentations at the Mettawee Community School. I had the opportunity to spread the message of “youth empowerment” and the importance of setting goals to students from Kindergarten to 6th grade. I was so impressed with the students and their willingness to participate and share their ideas with the class. Many of the students I met were also performers in the talent show—Pawlet, has a lot of great talent! Perhaps a future Miss Vermont will be from this town!

After my school visits, I was greeted by Luke Hawkins, who escorted my mom and I back to his home. We unpacked a little, ate lunch, and then by 1pm, I was off to greet and thank the sponsors of Mettawee Mania. Luke was kind to be my chauffeur—we traveled around to visit with 12 different sponsors for the next three hours. One of my favorite stories from this trip was how poor Luke’s truck broke down while we were visiting a sponsor—luckily though, the sponsor was a car repair shop—Bardin’s Tire. Too funny! It worked out fine—Deb Hawkins dropped off another car for us, and then we were back to work! While thanking sponsors, I also had the opportunity to visit a farm that was making maple syrup. Such a neat process to make that sugary goodness.

When I finished greeting the sponsors, we headed back to the Hawkins’ home for some dinner and then off we went to rehearsal for the big show, which was scheduled for the next night. I got to see all of the talent, and had a great time mingling with all of the performers. There was a group of middle school girls who were such a riot! I had a blast with them, and they had me do something that was a first for me as Miss Vermont—they asked me to sign their stomachs! Haha—no worries, I got parental permission before marking their skin with a sharpie. It was too funny. I’m hoping to sign a bald head before I pass on the title. A girl can only hope right? Haha!

By the time rehearsals were finished, I was exhausted and headed right to bed! The next morning my mom and I toured Manchester, Vermont and then we headed back to the house to spend time with the Hawkins Family. The show came and went before I knew it, but it was such a successful night! Over 500 people attended—and I had a great time taking pictures and signing autographs after the show. Miss Vermont 2010 is in for a real treat with this appearance! I will not forget this experience any time soon.

On Sunday, right after getting back from Pawlet, I headed over to the WalMart in Williston, Vermont where I was helping 98.9 WOKO and the Vermont Children’s Hospital promote the Change Round Up—where all the money was going towards Vermont Children’s Hospital, which a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. The Miss America Organization has a great partnership with CMN, so it was wonderful to be a part of this event. All of the money raise goes directly to our Vermont Hospital. I had so much fun mingling with all of the incredible people who came out to donate money—so many personal stories touched my heart—especially of a young 12 year old who raised over $700 to donate to a hospital which helped save her life as a baby. To see so many young people donating and raising money was very inspiring and made me proud of the youth in our state. I had a great time hanging out with Courtney Billings, who was the 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Champion Child for Vermont. Courtney is such an inspiration young woman and so much fun to talk with and goof around with! I’m trying to convince her to compete for VT Outstanding Teen—she has it all! Such a sweet and giving gal. I also had the opportunity to talk on the radio about the Miss Vermont Scholarship Program and the event taking place over the weekend. It was a long day, but very fun and rewarding.

On Monday morning, I headed over to Fletcher Allen Hospital where we wrapped up the Change Round Up! I spoke on the radio again several times, while taking photos with the generous people who donated money to the cause. Over the weekend, over $120,000 was raised for the Vermont Children’s Hospital! Incredible! Right after the event, I headed right back to school for my 2:30pm class—what a busy spring break—I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

On April 3rd, the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization held “Vermont Has Talent”—a fundraiser to increase our scholarship fund for the 2010 pageant. What a success! I was asked to be one of the judges—and I was surprised at how difficult it is to be a judge—especially when all of the talent was fabulous! There was a very cute 8-year-old boy who played the ukulele at the fastest speed I’ve ever seen, a variety of talented singers, and singer/song-writers, two dancers, a comedian, and then the winner was 13 year old Cheyenne Prescott of Chester, Vermont who sang “When You Believe”—I am thrilled to have her perform at the 2010 pageant. She was wonderful!

Dr. Steve Taubman, who was a fabulous mock interview judge for me this fall, was the emcee of the show! He is a magician and hypnotist—after the talent portion, while the judges were deliberating, he performed a hypnotist act where he successfully hypnotized about 12 audience members on stage. I caught the end of his act and I couldn’t stop laughing! He did a great job—so much fun! I’m looking forward to next year’s event!





My first excavator ride in Pawlet, VT!




At Rehearsal for Metawee Mania---her parents gave me permission!




After Mettawee Mania!

With Courtney, CMN Champion Child 2009


I will upload more photos soon! Before I sign off , I must give a shout-out to my sweet cousin Harry. He has been such a big fan and supporter this year, and I love that he reads this blog! He recently had his 11th birthday—Happy Birthday Harry! Thank you all for your love and support this year---(I know it’s not over yet, but I have so much gratitude towards all of the people who have been there for me this year!) Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Your Miss Vermont,

~Laura

Teaser: just a few photos my mom uploaded from Vegas...more to come!

With Nonni and Grandpa!


Team Vermont! Sue Lackey--Miss VT Executive Director, and Sarah VTOT

With my dear friends, Kelly Sloan-Miss SC and Gregory Ellenburg!

My brother Steven with Katie Stam, Miss America 2009. He was smitten! haha

More photos to come! Contestant development day begins in less than 8 hours...I need to get some shut-eye!

Have a warm weekend!

~Laura

I've got a feeling...

Hello Friends,

Where has the time gone?! It feels like just yesterday I was dancing on stage with 52 amazing women in our Joseph Ribkoff dresses and DSW shoes (Thank you sponsors!) to “I’ve Got a Feeling.” Knowing that one month has already passed since the time I first arrived in Las Vegas is really hard to believe. All I can say is what an incredible experience! Really. I feel so blessed, so honored, so proud to have been able to participate in Miss America 2010. Wow.

Ok, maybe I can say a little bit more. I just need to figure out where to begin. There is so much to share and so many people to thank. This experience is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life, and the best part is—my experience is not over! I am still Miss Vermont 2009, and I intend to live up my last few months with this title as much as possible! For all of the incredible opportunities and personal growth I’ve experienced, I owe it to the Miss America Organization to do as much good with this title as I can.

(With that being said, please e-mail me if you have an event you would like Miss Vermont to participate in; missvermont09@yahoo.com. I already have a busy month of March ahead, and I’m excited to add more! )

The weeks leading up to Miss America were incredibly busy. I need to thank my mom and step-dad Mike for driving 17 hours down to South Carolina to pick up my incredible wardrobe sponsored by Gregory Ellenburg. We starting driving down around 4 am on December 29th, (only a few hours after my 22nd birthday ended) and we started driving back home from SC at 8pm on December 31st. We celebrated the New Year in our rental car, and I believe we were in North Carolina at the time. Mike stopped at a convenience store to pick up some festive New Year’s hats and we rang in the New Year in a way I will never forget. My step-dad drove through the entire night, as my mom and I struggled to stay awake to keep him company. Thank you Mom and Mike for spending the New Year with me and traveling all of those miles!

My Send-Off Party was on January 9th at the Middle School I attended back in the early 2000s. The party was so much fun, and cannot believe how many people traveled to come to my send-off. Between family members, pageant friends, and my college friends, I felt overwhelmed with the love and support. I will never forget the way I felt at my send-off. Thank you to all of you who made it so special!

When January 20th rolled around (I remember waiting for this day to get here!) my grandmother and I flew in to Las Vegas a day early to get settled before my whirlwind of an adventure began.

On January 21st, the fun officially began. 8:30 am I attended registration, tried on my wardrobe and started filming segments for Miss America Behind the Crown. We had cameras following us all week, and I really enjoyed being a part of the behind-the-scenes work of a television show. All of crew members were really nice, fun, and talented. However, I have yet to see the full 1-hour special and Miss America Live show! (I’ve been so busy since coming back from Vegas! I’m hoping to watch them soon.) My roommate was Kristina Smaby Miss Wisconsin—I had so much fun rooming with her! She’s a sweetheart and a great friend. I’m looking forward to visiting her state someday.

All of the contestants were amazing, and it was great to get to know so many of them. I especially got to know our current Miss America, since our states both begin with “V”—we were in alphabetical order a lot throughout the week.

I have so much I want to share with you all, and many photos to upload here soon! I am embarrassed by how long it has taken me to update you all on my experience. At 7am on Sunday January 31st, I flew right back to Assumption College where I jumped back into being a student and a student leader. I resumed my role as Senate Speaker at our 8:20pm meeting that night—the night right after Miss America! These past few weeks I’ve been doing my best to catch up on sleep and catch up on the two weeks of school work I missed from being in Vegas. I still am not 100% caught up (which is why I need to cut this blog short tonight), but I am so thankful for my understanding professors and my incredibly supportive college! I returned to campus with photos of my Miss Vermont experience on a bulletin board, and I learned that Assumption College threw a Miss America Party (big screen viewing) in my honor. How incredible! And each day, I run into someone who congratulates me on my experience—I cannot thank all of the people in my life enough!

Before I wrap up the first of what appears to be several blogs that will reflect on my Miss America experience, I will say that I am so proud of my state, and I hope you know that I put my all into representing Vermont at Miss America. I enjoyed every moment in Las Vegas, and I still have to remind myself that I really accomplished a goal I set four years ago when I was 18. Although I would have loved to have been your Miss America, or even your first top 15 finalist, I left Miss America with no regrets, and I feel content with the way things worked out. I truly believed that I achieved the honor of being Miss Vermont and going to Miss America because of my belief in the power-of-positive-thinking, and I am happy with the way I presented myself and the results because I stayed true to my belief in positive thinking. I know I did not walk away with the crown, but during the entire experience, I felt like Miss America. I believed that I was going to be Miss America 2010, not once did I doubt my abilities, and all of the support I received help strengthen my belief in my goal and my belief in myself. Friends, there is no greater feeling than feeling like you are capable of something that means the world to you. I believed I was Miss America. My friends and family helped me feel like Miss America. And during my time in Vegas, I was overwhelmed with how many people from other states came up to talk to me and support me—even though they didn’t have to. Thank you all so much for believing in me and helping me to believe in myself! I’m trying not to repeat myself, but when I was not called into the top 15, I didn’t feel the immediate disappointment that some of my fellow sisters may have experienced. Sure, I wanted so badly to be called into the top, and I felt like my name was on the tip of Mario’s tongue each time he announced a new finalist, but when the Top 15 was complete, I still felt proud. I felt so proud with my hard work, and I was excited to watch my friends continue to work towards their dream. I believe that every contestant I was with would have been a great Miss America, and I can only hope that they all felt that in themselves the way that I felt it in myself—because no feeling in my life compares to this new found belief. I am ready to continue making positive changes and I’m excited that I still have time to make some impacts as Miss Vermont!

If any of my fellow Miss America sisters happen to stumble across my blog (although, I know how busy we all are, so it’s most likely unlikely), I want to share a message I received that means a lot to me from a friend:

“I just wanted to write and say thanks for being an inspiration! It was amazing to see someone I not only have met but like know out there on the national stage! (And, a quality individual who truly deserved to be there!) You reached for your dream, girl, and you got there! Seeing you on that national stage (and in the clips of the preshow) really made the world feel a little bit smaller, less intimidating and more attainable. People really can dream and achieve those dreams! So, I just wanted to say, Thanks for being you and always believing in your dreams!”

First I need to thank Jen Gonet, a former Assumption SGA friend for allowing me to read this and smile every day. I want to share this with my Miss America sisters because this not only applies to me, but to all of us. I hope we all recognize that we have made a difference in our communities, our states and even on a national level—and I want my Miss America sisters to know that you have all made an impact on my life and are all truly inspirations to me. I love you all—can’t wait to reunite in Vegas! Enjoy the rest of your reigns and stand in the light!

I cannot wait to be back in Vermont this upcoming weekend for Contestant Development Day! I will be spending the day with the lovely ladies looking into becoming Miss Vermont 2010. I am looking forward to being a mentor for these young women who have the opportunity to have what I consider to be a dream job.

I have so much more to update, and I hope to do that soon!

Thanks for all of your support!

~Laura

Home for the Holidays

Hello Friends,

I hope you are all keeping warm and enjoying the holiday season! I apologize for my lack of blogging--it's been a busy month! Knowing that you are all busy with family and the holiday season, I will keep my update short!

Since coming home from college on December 10th, I have been in full-blown preparation mode, and enjoying every minute of it!

I picked up my talent music which was recorded locally here in Vermont! I was very fortunate enough to meet Brian McCarthy, who completely rearranged my music and served as director/producer and musician for my talent song! He did an incredible job, and teamed up with Lane Gibson who has an incredible studio space. Lane was so generous to donate his space and time to help put my music track together! It was such a neat experience to see the behind the scenes work that goes into recording a track. I have to give a huge thank you to Kate Whalen who provided the vocals for my song! The world works in mysterious ways--while at an appearance for the American Heart Association, I met Kate who sang at the event. As soon as she opened her mouth, I knew her voice was perfect for my song! I am so glad she was willing to lend me her talented voice for my talent track. Below are Brian and Lane's websites--if you need any help with music, these are your men!

www.myspace.com/brianmccarthymusic

www.lanegibson.com

On Tuesday, December 14th--Sue and I had a full day of Miss Vermont work together. We went over details for Contestant Development Day---make sure to sign up for the January 2nd event! It is going to be a very fun and informative day. If you attended last year, you will be seeing a completely different set of workshops-I'm very impressed with the hard work of the Miss Vermont Board. While in Sue's studio, we did a great deal of walking practice and discussed the upcoming weeks. After lunch we headed to visit with Dr. Palm in Colchester who was kind to sponsor a great teeth-whitening kit for me. I was so impressed with their facility and the friendly atmosphere. I hope to see Dr. Palm again soon--what a great personality! He has a great smile too!

After leaving the dentist office, Sue and I headed to meet with our newest sponsor, MD Cosmetic. I had a great time with all of the ladies at MD Cosmetic! I received a facial, make-over and laser-hair removal. I was generously given so many incredible products that will definitely come in handy during my year as Miss Vermont and beyond. Thank you MD Cosmetic!

I've been spending a lot of time in the dance studio, cleaning up my dance. I will be heading to NYC on January 7th, to work with Shea Sullivan for the final time before Vegas! I'm looking forward to the trip, because I will get a chance to re-connect with Rachel Ann Cole, Miss Vermont 2007! I can't wait to catch up and share stories about our Miss Vermont adventures.

On December 19th, I headed over to the University Mall to help with Channel 5 News' "Toys for Kids" Program, where we had a collection site in the middle of the mall. I am always so impressed with the strong sense of community we have here in Vermont, and to see so many people donating toys was heartwarming. I don't think there are many gifts more precious than bringing a smile to a child's face, and that is exactly what this program aims to due each holiday season. Thank you for your participation!

Each day I've been working out at Poulin Performance--what an incredible facility! Such friendly trainers and a great work-out environment. Special thanks to Chris and Evita for their guidance and allowing me to use their gym.

Next week I will be driving down to South Carolina with my mom and step-dad. We will be taking advantage of our 17 hour drive, by preparing for my Miss America interview and listening to some great books on tape. I'm very thankful for my parents willingness to drive me down to SC. I will be picking up my Miss America wardrobe, and shopping for my Vegas appearance clothing. I cannot wait to see my extraordinary gown designer, Gregory Ellenburg! He has been such a wonderful friend during my year, and I'm very thankful for all of his help and support.

I have a few great appearances coming up, but I'll fill you in on those soon! I also have some pictures that I need to upload to my computer, so be on the look out for those as well.

I would love to invite you all to my send-off party! I will be showing off my wardrobe, performing my talent, and sharing the stage with other special members of the Miss Vermont family who will be performing, including Miss Vermont's Outstanding Teen, Sarah Cramton. It will be held on January 9th, 2010 at Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School in South Burlington from 2--4pm. It is open to the public so please invite your friends!

I feel incredibly blessed and humbled to be representing such a wonderful state. Vermont has given me so many things to be thankful for, and I am filled with such warmth and happiness this holiday season because of you all. Thank you for your support and for believing in me.

I wish you all a very happy holiday season! What a gift this year has been. Please eat a Christmas cookie or two for me! mmm....cookies.

Stay warm, Vermont!

~Laura

Hi Friends!

I just wanted to write-in to say hello and wish you all wonderful week! I am about to experience one of the busiest weeks as a student--most of these updates show how busy I've been as Miss Vermont--but this one will give you a little glimpse into my life as Laura Hall--college senior.

Tomorrow I have to wrap up my student government work for the semester--I have to send out the minutes from tonight's meeting to our campus community, and I have to have winter student-leader training set up so that everything will fall into place smoothly when I am away in Vegas and beyond! My Student Government friends have been telling me that they'll miss me when I'm Miss America--(nothing wrong with positive thinking, right?)--but they are an amazing group of individuals and I know that they will continue to led our school in a positive direction.

On Tuesday I have a 10-page paper and a group project due--I start class at 10 am and usually get out of class around 4pm. Later that evening I will drive down to Framingham, MA to work with my trainer, Katie Boyd! www.missfitco.com

On Wednesday I have a 5 page paper due. I have a meeting with my academic dean to handle my minimum of two-weeks absence from 2nd semester courses, then I will be having dinner with the President of Assumption College.

Thursday is study day--the day before exams begin. I have arranged with my professors to have all of my exams earlier so my plan is to jam-pack all of my exams in to Thursday and Friday so that I can drive home and dedicate all of my energy 110% to Miss Vermont/Miss America work!

On Friday morning I have a meeting with the Board of Trustees of Assumption College (this is part of my work as Senate Speaker for SGA) and in the late afternoon I will be in the recording to studio in Vermont, where my Miss America music track is being recorded by local musicians. I am very excited to see this process unfold! Thanks to Brian McCarthy for arranging the music, musicians and studio time!

I am trying to confirm that I am able to hold a fundraiser for CMN--so more details when I receive that confirmation. But in the meantime, I would love if you could send this link to your friends, and donate any amount to the Children's Miracle Network. This organization has touched my heart and I am hoping to give back by raising funds throughout my year as Miss Vermont!

http://www.missamerica4kids.org/m.aspx?i=53139AE53D5BEA&e=91ED+0+152

I will be checking my facebook and e-mail regularly, so feel free to send questions/comments/or methods to avoid insanity during this big academic crunch time!

To all of those college students out there--good luck on exams!

Enjoy the holiday season!

~Laura

How the West was Fun!

Hi Friends,

I'm writing to you from my on-campus apartment, as my roommate unpacks and holiday music is blasting through our paper-thin walls...gotta love college. We all have just returned from our Thanksgiving Break, and what a wonderful weekend I had out in Seattle, Washington!

My Aunt Jenn and Uncle Pat moved out to Seattle in the early '90s. I have never been out there to visit their home, but what better time than as I'm preparing to become Miss America to travel across the country for the first time? I flew from coast to coast, adjusted to the time change, and am now working on re-adjusting to our Eastern time zone. It's almost 1 am here, yet I am not quite tired enough to retire for the night. I'm not sure what my roommate's excuse is for staying awake!

Before I dive into my most recent adventure, I just have to say that airports fascinate me. They really do. The fact that you can see so many people from all over the world, with completely different life stories, in one building in one moment...and then possibly, or rather, most likely never see them again. It's intriguing huh? I love seeing faces--and the many expressions that can be seen in the airport. Perhaps I'm being bizarre, but I enjoy airports.

On Wednesday morning, my dad dropped me off at the Logan Airport in Boston where I had a quick flight to Washington, DC. I found my gate right away (my mom gets nervous when I travel alone and always makes sure I call her right when I find the gate) and luckily had some time to grab a bite to eat before my 6 hour flight to Seattle. I have never been in a plane for 6 hours, and before I even boarded the plane, I found myself looking through my bags to find ways to entertain myself. I brought a book to read, one of my current event magazines, a notebook to write down my ideas (I brainstorm A LOT) and headphones to listen to music on the plane or watch whatever movie the plane provided for entertainment. However, to my surprise, I found that I did not need these items to keep my entertained. For 6 hours, I had a blast talking to my new friends Swen and Isaac, who I happened to be seated next too... somehow I always get the middle seat in the plane. My plane companions were both college-aged students, one from PA, and one who is from Seattle but goes to school in RI...both on their way to visit family for Thanksgiving. Somehow the plane ride flew by (no pun intended) as we shared stories and looked at photos and movies saved on Isaac's computer. You can meet interesting people any where you go, as long as you're willing to open up and reach out. Little did I know that my simple question of "would you like some gum?"--would turn into a fun conversation that lasted for hours. It's great that I now have two more people from different areas of our country supporting me as I work towards becoming Miss America 2010.

I have never been to the west coast (I'll probably mention this over and over), and it was really a big deal for me. When I think of the west coast, I think of Hollywood, Glamour, Movie Stars, Fashion, Sunshine, Surfing. I guess I never really picture normal, every day life. Well, now that I read what I just wrote, I guess that I associate the west with my vision of "Los Angeles"--but nonetheless, the west coast has always been as place I wanted to travel to and explore. I remember when I was younger I would write letters to my favorite stars--John Travolta, Mary-Kate and Ashley...anyone who I thought would read my letter and want to star with me in a movie. I had an urge to be famous. An urge to be known all over the world. I would dream of being famous on a daily basis. At a young age, I realized how those who were famous had a great influence on "us common people," and I wanted to use my fame to help others. I thought I had to be famous in order to make a difference. It's funny to read through my old diaries, as I read about how I wanted to be an actress, singer, dancer, writer...I would write musicals, plays, movies, songs. I would create dances. I would recruit my friends and neighbors to learn my songs and dances, and would knock on all the doors in the neighborhood to have my neighbors watch our performances in my front yard. I will never forget recording one of my songs with my class in the 2nd grade, or how I wrote an application to be a contestant on "The Mole" at age 13. I'm pretty sure the minimum age requirement was 21. I've always had big dreams and big goals, and for many years, all of those dreams could be found out in the West. Luckily, I've learned you don't need to be famous to make a difference. But, back to the story: It was great to start my exploration with Seattle, a truly wonderful city.

My first night in the "emerald city," I went to my aunt's home and met with my makeup artist who will be joining me in Vegas. We went upstairs to practice my look, and I had a blast learning some techniques. I have never been skills in the hair/make-up department, but I've enjoyed learning along the way. I went out to dinner with some of my Aunt and Uncle's friends, and then we went to a club that my uncle was taking photos at for a charity event. It was a great evening, except for my exhaustion from a day of traveling and not being use to the 3-hour time difference. Too bad I don't drink coffee!

Thanksgiving day was one of the most relaxing days I've had since being crowned Miss Vermont. I slept in, which for me, sleeping until 9am is sleeping in, and then I spent the majority of the day reading. I read Sam Haskell's "Promises I Made My Mother"--a wonderful quick read, and then began reading "The Lovely Bones"--which I'm 3/4 finished. I can't remember the last time I've had time to read a non-school related book. It was glorious.

Thanksgiving Dinner was delicious! I sent text messages to many of my lovely Miss America Sisters and enjoyed hearing how we all threw our Miss America diet out the window for this feast. Although, I don't think I call my training a "diet"-- since I still eat the majority of my favorite foods, including chocolate! Yum.

Friday was filled with shopping with my Aunt Jenn...we walked all over the place and I ended up buying three items that I love and will take with me to Vegas. I also got to see the original Starbucks! Although it was Black Friday, we did not seem to be stuck in a crowd until 5pm at night....when a Tree Lighting Ceremony began. Seattle sure loves their Christmas Lights--I don't blame them. Their streets were beautifully decorated and reminded me of Church Street. In fact, there are a lot of similarities between Seattle and Burlington, VT. I felt comfortable in this city right away. My aunt and I had to fight through the crowd like a fish swimming upstream, in order to get to the car. Right after our shopping mission I met with my hair-dresser for Miss America and discussed different styling ideas. I'm so thankful to have this team helping me present the best Laura Hall while in Vegas.

Saturday morning arrived far too soon...but, I did have something to look forward to when I arrived at the airport. Miss Washington came to greet me! Devanni and I exchanged numbers while in Orlando this August, and I'm glad she was available while I was in town! We met at the Starbucks in the airport...very appropriate, right?! (Starbucks began in Seattle)

I had an incredible trip...and I am just thankful for all of the opportunities that I have been having this year.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am thankful for your love and support.

I am Thankful for being your Miss Vermont.


Warmly,

~Laura

Hi Friends!

I have decided to take a break from working on my "quest for justice" paper for my political science class so that I can share with you the incredible week I just had! If I could get graded on my procrastination, I know I would have an A+! But, no worries, everything always get completed...maybe my professor will grade me on this blog instead. What do you think Professor Sorenson?!

Well, because I do have a bit of homework tonight, I will make this blog brief. Or at least try.

Last Monday, my dad and I traveled to Framingham, MA to work with personal trainer, Katie Boyd. Katie is a former pageant gal, and has recently become a wonderful sponsor for me. Check out her website! www.missfitco.com. Katie is also the personal trainer for my friend Nydelis, who recently won Miss Vermont USA. It's exciting to have her helping the Vermont titleholders get in great shape!

On Wednesday, my dad served as my traveling companion, as we took the 3 hour drive up to Manchester, VT. (My dad lives only 15 minutes from where I attend college, so he's been a wonderful help getting me up to Vermont every week. Thanks Dad! I love you.) I was honored to be asked to model in a charity fashion show which was raising funds for dance scholarships for the Manchester Ballet. Dance has been an important part of my life, and I know how expensive training can be. I am thankful for my parents for supporting my love of dance, and I was so happy to be involved in a fundraiser that will allow other young women be able to afford dance lessons. Manchester is filled with so many incredible designer stores! Every single outfit I wore in the fashion show, I loved! I wish I could have brought all of the clothes home...I'm still considering driving to Manchester to purchase some of the outfits. I wore clothing from many stores, including: Ann Taylor, Theory, Tsi, Kenneth Cole, BCBG, Robin Lane, and more! It was a great event, and I had the opportunity to meet Claudia Voight, mother of Miss CT 2006 Heidi Voight, who is going to be the co-director for the Miss Vermont Scholarship Organization! She's wonderful. I may be jumping ahead, but Sue Lackey, who has been my interim director since September, officially sent in the paperwork to become Executive Director. We should be hearing from Nationals soon. Sue has been building an extraordinary board! If approved, she and Claudia will be teaming up to make our state program stronger than ever. I am thankful for their help, love and support.

On Friday, I drove home to Burlington, VT, and mentally prepared for a busy, busy Saturday!

My Saturday morning began with a mock interview in Essex, Vermont. I had an amazing panel who gave me wonderful feedback. Interview is my favorite portion of the competition, and each week I can see my improvement. I am so excited for my Miss America interview! January is coming so soon! I cannot wait!

After my mock interview, my mom and I rushed over to the Double Tree Hotel where the Festival of Sweets was taking place. Now, this was my type of appearance! haha, being surrounded in a room filled with cakes, cookies and chocolate! Yum! Free samples...talk about a belly ache! (so worth it!) I had the privilege of being a celebrity judge for the cake decorating contest. Students from the New England Culinary Institute creating wedding cakes, and novelty cakes based on Christmas songs. I was blown away by the talent that these students had. I felt like I was on one of those shows seen on the Food Network! It was so hard to judge. After scoring the cakes, I was asked to present the awards. My favorite cake, which was a light blue convertible with Santa driving, won.

Presenting an award

With the creator of this incredible cake!

These cakes are so beautiful, I don't know if I would want to cut into them!

Happy Hippo---this cake made me hungry!

After the cake contest, Mom and I filled out some paperwork at my Nonni's house, and then headed over to meet with Brian McCarthy. Brian has been kind enough to rearrange my talent music for Miss America. He is organizing a local band to record the music--this is a huge relief, as recording can be expensive! I'm excited to have Vermonters performing my talent song!

Later that evening I attended "On Stage with Heart" which was a charity event for the American Heart Association. I was asked to speak about my family's experience with heart issues, and I performed my self-choreographed dance to "Almost like being in love." It was such a fun evening, filled with incredible talent! The highlight of the evening was running into my childhood dance teacher, Angie Nulty! Angie is allowing me to have a key to her studio so I can go in and practice my routine any time I need! She is so generous and I am so glad to have her back in my life!

With two of the youngest performers of the evening: Rowan and Jackson! Sorry the photo is horizontal, my mom e-mailed this photo to me and I couldn't figure out how to rearrange it! haha, just tilt your head a little to the left. Ok, just tilt it a little more. There you go.

With Kim Dubrul--my wonderful motivational coach, Lauren Maloney from Fox News (Host of the evening) and Caisil-who invited me to perform.

What a great evening!

Sunday morning, my dad, brother and I drove the 4 hours back to Massachusetts. I had to leave Vermont earlier than usual because I was asked to speak with the Assumption College Alumni Board. It's hard to believe that this May, I will be able to join the Alumni Council, as I graduate in May. I met with my advisor, and I found out that I already have enough credits to graduate this May...I keep picturing myself receiving my diploma as Miss America. What a great news story that would be! Especially since education is such a valued component of our organization. I've been working hard Vermont, I'm hoping this is our year. The Alumni Board was a great opportunity to practice my interview skills--I was asked a variety of questions, and had a great time meeting new friends.

Well, I should be getting back to my homework! I have 3 classes tomorrow, and then I'm off to Seattle, Washington! I have never been west of Ohio, I am so excited! I will be staying with my Aunt and Uncle, as I meet with my hair and makeup artist for Miss America. I can't wait to update you all on that trip.

This year has been an incredible adventure. I am so thankful for each and every opportunity.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

~Laura