Monday, April 5, 2010
Monday, March 1st, 2010
After school, George and I raced over to Mercy Hospital to volunteer. I had gotten him ready the night before. His teeth were brushed and nails trimmed. We got there just on time and started our traditional routine. We start in the Emergency Room waiting area and then go to the surgery waiting area. Here, another Therapy Dog greeted us. George loved seeing another dog in the hospital, and he just wanted to play! He must have gotten too wound up, because within five minutes, he was not feeling on top of the world anymore. I cleaned up his accident, and he shamefully walked down the hallway. I tried to tell him it was okay, but he still felt bad. Our trip ended early, because no one wants a sick puppy at the hospital.
Saturday, February 27th, 2010
Juvenile Diabetes Walk & reading to the children at Southdale Mall
My day started early… 5:20 A.M. on a Saturday morning. It was perfectly dark and zero degrees Fahrenheit outside as I dragged myself out of my cozy bed to get ready.

By 6:30 A.M., my mom and I were out the door, heading to the Mall of America for the Juvenile Diabetes Walk. I participated in the pre-walk celebration, signing autographs and mingling with the families. I was impressed at the supportive families and all the money that was raised to find a cure for diabetes. I also met three mascots and told them that I am a mascot too! They did not believe me, but I assured them that I have only shed my layer of fur for this day. Thank you to Kara, who set this wonderful opportunity up for me. You have done wonders for this fundraiser and I hope it continues to be successful. With your mindset, and all the support behind you, I do believe a cure will be found.

Unfortunately, I did not walk. My walking shoes were at home and there was no way I would walk in five-inch heels. I did stay to hear the countdown and cheer and encourage the walkers as they started their long adventure.
A SURPRISE: Bailey Wachholz and Miss High School Minnesota were there too! Keep up the great work girls and good luck at nationals. Do the Midwest region proud!

Since we were right next to IHop, my mom, Lisa, and I went to enjoy breakfast. Frank was there! He was so glad to see me. He is such a genuine, kind-hearted man. Not to mention, breakfast was delicious.
At 2 P.M., we were off to Southdale Mall where I had the opportunity to read to children. It was like a HUGE party! Radio Disney was there; they were giving away free books to a whole bunch of kids! I read Curious George. My mom and Lisa laughed when I could not pronounce Mr. Pickadilly! The kids did not care; they were excited to meet a real princess. Thank you to Lindsey at Southdale Mall. She has been so great at involving me in events at Southdale- this is my fourth one and she assured me that there would be more.

Lisa - Lisa is the new business manager for Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen. She has arranged all my appearances. She has done wonders and is a great addition to the MMOT team. We work extremely well together. Thank you, Lisa for all your hard work.
The day was not over yet. I kept myself occupied in the four hour car ride to my grandma’s house by writing this.
Congratulations to the winners to the 2010 Sweeps pageant: Miss City of Lakes 2010, Liz Abbas and Miss West Metro 2010, Siri Freeh. You two will do a fantastic job on the Miss Minnesota stage.
Friday, February 26th, 2010
Herberger’s Community Day Fundraiser: Tonight’s fundraising was more successful than Tuesday. I think it was because the sale was on Saturday, the next day. There were two highlights of the night:
1. Liz, my group leader at youth group was shopping at Northtown Mall, where I was fundraising. I haven’t been to group for a while, and it was great to see her and finally introduce her to my mom! Liz has given me much guidance and is truly an inspiring person. I loved the fact that she could not see what I’ve been busy doing.
2. I have not worn the same outfit twice for an appearance. This could be because of two reasons. Either I have not had many appearances or I have a lot of clothes. Let me tell you, the first option is invalid. I always mix and match my clothes. Between bringing George to visit and all other events, I have two to four per week
Did I mention that I love shopping?

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010
Therapy Dog visit @ Park River Estates
Today marked my one year anniversary of volunteering with George at Park River Estates. That time has flown by! We started out with many residents that are still there today but have been greeted by many new faces as well. Thank you to the volunteer coordinators, who have been behind me along every step of this journey.
George continues to touch many peoples’ lives. His attitude has not changed yet about going to work. Since we began, I believe George and I are more intact today. He gives me signs when he is uncomfortable with a resident, and I always respect that. He always looks up at me wondering what he should do in a situation. If I am smiling at him, he knows that he is being a good boy. At the end of every visit, George always gets a treat at the front desk… his favorite part.
Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010
After a Facebook controversy: should I miss school to participate in National Pancake Day with Brooke, or should I go to school like every other day of the week. Not to mention, I do really well in school even with an absence here and there. After a few hours of convincing my mom, we decided it would be okay. Besides, I went for the kids, right? Children’s Miracle Network, CMN, is the national platform for the Outstanding Teen organization. I had to go to support the kids! I have invested so much time into CMN; it would not be ideal not go to. When I finally got to the IHop in Bloomington, driving in rush hour was a drag, Brooke and I had a blast. I was continuously amazed at all the support for Gillette’s Children’s Hospital and CMN from the customers and staff alike. Shout out to Frank, the general manager of the Bloomington IHop. He was so welcoming of me and an all around generous person! I wish him the best of luck with continuing a very successful restaurant. Also, thank you to the Coon Rapids High School staff and administration. You all have been so supportive of the Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen organization and the things I have done even though you guys give me a hard time about missing school days.

This evening, I also sold coupon books for Herberger’s Community Day, Saturday, February 27th. All the money that I rose, selling $5 coupon books, did go towards the Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen organization. Although a Tuesday night is not the ideal night to sell coupons, I still had a great time talking with the customers and trying out my marketing skills. Maybe I should go into retail… in the end, I did accomplish to convince my mom to let me do some shopping. What a great end to a wonderful day!
Sunday, February 7th, 2010
Sunday was the last day Jeanette would spend with us and we went out with a bang. All of us woke up early to go to the waffle breakfast at the VFW. Heather was unable to come with us, but I was glad we got to share her first night of a new beginning together. Allison was there in her crown, and she looked so excited. The new Coon Rapids Junior Royalty was also there cleaning up plates and tables. After enjoying a breakfast with the company of Mayor Howe, we returned home, packed, and headed off to the Mall of America. First, we did some shopping. Then, Kokomo’s restaurant was gracious enough to pay for our whole lunch. We truly appreciated it. The food was delicious and the service was excellent.


Finally, the time had come. We had to say good-bye to Ms. Dianne and Jeanette. Jeanette and I had planned to get together to hang out. She only lives in Wisconsin; that’s driving distance from Coon Rapids! It was a great weekend. I am so thankful to everyone who made this weekend special.

Saturday, February 6th, 2010
Today was the day where we would see all the strings tied together, all the many hours of rehearsal because today was the Miss Coon Rapids pageant and the Coon Rapids Junior Royalty pageant. Jeanette, Ms. Dianne, and I woke up early. I had the opportunity to drive us all to my high school; my mom was already there setting up. I’ll admit that I’m probably the best driver you will ever meet. … just kidding, but we didn’t crash! And we even made a stop for breakfast at Burger King! The Junior Royalty pageant was first. All the little girls, and boys, were so cute! I would have hated to be a judge! It would be so hard to pick winners out of all the kids, who in my eyes all looked ready for the job of being in the royalty. Congratulations to the 2010 Coon Rapids Junior Royalty! I am looking forward to spending the next year with you as Rockee the Raccoon!

We had about 45 minutes to eat lunch before we had to be back at the auditorium for the Miss Coon Rapids pageant. So, Jeanette, Ms. Diane, Heather- Miss Coon Rapids, and I went to El Loro. I enjoyed a delicious cheese and chicken quesadilla. If you are looking for tasty but cheap Mexican food, I recommend El Loro. It is Coon Rapids’ secret.
The Miss Coon Rapids pageant was a hit! It was run beautifully. Jeanette sang the National Anthem and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. I am amazed by her voice. She is a true role model and the sweetest girl. Congratulations to Allison Lordbock, the new Miss Coon Rapids. I had the chance to meet her before, and I am so excited to spend the next few months with her as my local big sister queen.

Next, there was a reception at T.G.I. Fridays for the new queen. We enjoyed a great dinner with great company. By the end, my eyes had to be pried open. I was exhausted after a long day. Alyssa and her mom, Heather, Jeanette and Ms. Dianne, my mom and I returned home for a slumber party. It did not last long. We were all sleeping within the next hour.
After school, George and I raced over to Mercy Hospital to volunteer. I had gotten him ready the night before. His teeth were brushed and nails trimmed. We got there just on time and started our traditional routine. We start in the Emergency Room waiting area and then go to the surgery waiting area. Here, another Therapy Dog greeted us. George loved seeing another dog in the hospital, and he just wanted to play! He must have gotten too wound up, because within five minutes, he was not feeling on top of the world anymore. I cleaned up his accident, and he shamefully walked down the hallway. I tried to tell him it was okay, but he still felt bad. Our trip ended early, because no one wants a sick puppy at the hospital.
Saturday, February 27th, 2010
Juvenile Diabetes Walk & reading to the children at Southdale Mall
My day started early… 5:20 A.M. on a Saturday morning. It was perfectly dark and zero degrees Fahrenheit outside as I dragged myself out of my cozy bed to get ready.

By 6:30 A.M., my mom and I were out the door, heading to the Mall of America for the Juvenile Diabetes Walk. I participated in the pre-walk celebration, signing autographs and mingling with the families. I was impressed at the supportive families and all the money that was raised to find a cure for diabetes. I also met three mascots and told them that I am a mascot too! They did not believe me, but I assured them that I have only shed my layer of fur for this day. Thank you to Kara, who set this wonderful opportunity up for me. You have done wonders for this fundraiser and I hope it continues to be successful. With your mindset, and all the support behind you, I do believe a cure will be found.

Unfortunately, I did not walk. My walking shoes were at home and there was no way I would walk in five-inch heels. I did stay to hear the countdown and cheer and encourage the walkers as they started their long adventure.
A SURPRISE: Bailey Wachholz and Miss High School Minnesota were there too! Keep up the great work girls and good luck at nationals. Do the Midwest region proud!

Since we were right next to IHop, my mom, Lisa, and I went to enjoy breakfast. Frank was there! He was so glad to see me. He is such a genuine, kind-hearted man. Not to mention, breakfast was delicious.
At 2 P.M., we were off to Southdale Mall where I had the opportunity to read to children. It was like a HUGE party! Radio Disney was there; they were giving away free books to a whole bunch of kids! I read Curious George. My mom and Lisa laughed when I could not pronounce Mr. Pickadilly! The kids did not care; they were excited to meet a real princess. Thank you to Lindsey at Southdale Mall. She has been so great at involving me in events at Southdale- this is my fourth one and she assured me that there would be more.
Lisa - Lisa is the new business manager for Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen. She has arranged all my appearances. She has done wonders and is a great addition to the MMOT team. We work extremely well together. Thank you, Lisa for all your hard work.
The day was not over yet. I kept myself occupied in the four hour car ride to my grandma’s house by writing this.
Congratulations to the winners to the 2010 Sweeps pageant: Miss City of Lakes 2010, Liz Abbas and Miss West Metro 2010, Siri Freeh. You two will do a fantastic job on the Miss Minnesota stage.
Friday, February 26th, 2010
Herberger’s Community Day Fundraiser: Tonight’s fundraising was more successful than Tuesday. I think it was because the sale was on Saturday, the next day. There were two highlights of the night:
1. Liz, my group leader at youth group was shopping at Northtown Mall, where I was fundraising. I haven’t been to group for a while, and it was great to see her and finally introduce her to my mom! Liz has given me much guidance and is truly an inspiring person. I loved the fact that she could not see what I’ve been busy doing.
2. I have not worn the same outfit twice for an appearance. This could be because of two reasons. Either I have not had many appearances or I have a lot of clothes. Let me tell you, the first option is invalid. I always mix and match my clothes. Between bringing George to visit and all other events, I have two to four per week
Did I mention that I love shopping?

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010
Therapy Dog visit @ Park River Estates
Today marked my one year anniversary of volunteering with George at Park River Estates. That time has flown by! We started out with many residents that are still there today but have been greeted by many new faces as well. Thank you to the volunteer coordinators, who have been behind me along every step of this journey.
George continues to touch many peoples’ lives. His attitude has not changed yet about going to work. Since we began, I believe George and I are more intact today. He gives me signs when he is uncomfortable with a resident, and I always respect that. He always looks up at me wondering what he should do in a situation. If I am smiling at him, he knows that he is being a good boy. At the end of every visit, George always gets a treat at the front desk… his favorite part.
Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010
After a Facebook controversy: should I miss school to participate in National Pancake Day with Brooke, or should I go to school like every other day of the week. Not to mention, I do really well in school even with an absence here and there. After a few hours of convincing my mom, we decided it would be okay. Besides, I went for the kids, right? Children’s Miracle Network, CMN, is the national platform for the Outstanding Teen organization. I had to go to support the kids! I have invested so much time into CMN; it would not be ideal not go to. When I finally got to the IHop in Bloomington, driving in rush hour was a drag, Brooke and I had a blast. I was continuously amazed at all the support for Gillette’s Children’s Hospital and CMN from the customers and staff alike. Shout out to Frank, the general manager of the Bloomington IHop. He was so welcoming of me and an all around generous person! I wish him the best of luck with continuing a very successful restaurant. Also, thank you to the Coon Rapids High School staff and administration. You all have been so supportive of the Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen organization and the things I have done even though you guys give me a hard time about missing school days.
This evening, I also sold coupon books for Herberger’s Community Day, Saturday, February 27th. All the money that I rose, selling $5 coupon books, did go towards the Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen organization. Although a Tuesday night is not the ideal night to sell coupons, I still had a great time talking with the customers and trying out my marketing skills. Maybe I should go into retail… in the end, I did accomplish to convince my mom to let me do some shopping. What a great end to a wonderful day!
Sunday, February 7th, 2010
Sunday was the last day Jeanette would spend with us and we went out with a bang. All of us woke up early to go to the waffle breakfast at the VFW. Heather was unable to come with us, but I was glad we got to share her first night of a new beginning together. Allison was there in her crown, and she looked so excited. The new Coon Rapids Junior Royalty was also there cleaning up plates and tables. After enjoying a breakfast with the company of Mayor Howe, we returned home, packed, and headed off to the Mall of America. First, we did some shopping. Then, Kokomo’s restaurant was gracious enough to pay for our whole lunch. We truly appreciated it. The food was delicious and the service was excellent.


Finally, the time had come. We had to say good-bye to Ms. Dianne and Jeanette. Jeanette and I had planned to get together to hang out. She only lives in Wisconsin; that’s driving distance from Coon Rapids! It was a great weekend. I am so thankful to everyone who made this weekend special.

Saturday, February 6th, 2010
Today was the day where we would see all the strings tied together, all the many hours of rehearsal because today was the Miss Coon Rapids pageant and the Coon Rapids Junior Royalty pageant. Jeanette, Ms. Dianne, and I woke up early. I had the opportunity to drive us all to my high school; my mom was already there setting up. I’ll admit that I’m probably the best driver you will ever meet. … just kidding, but we didn’t crash! And we even made a stop for breakfast at Burger King! The Junior Royalty pageant was first. All the little girls, and boys, were so cute! I would have hated to be a judge! It would be so hard to pick winners out of all the kids, who in my eyes all looked ready for the job of being in the royalty. Congratulations to the 2010 Coon Rapids Junior Royalty! I am looking forward to spending the next year with you as Rockee the Raccoon!

We had about 45 minutes to eat lunch before we had to be back at the auditorium for the Miss Coon Rapids pageant. So, Jeanette, Ms. Diane, Heather- Miss Coon Rapids, and I went to El Loro. I enjoyed a delicious cheese and chicken quesadilla. If you are looking for tasty but cheap Mexican food, I recommend El Loro. It is Coon Rapids’ secret.
The Miss Coon Rapids pageant was a hit! It was run beautifully. Jeanette sang the National Anthem and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. I am amazed by her voice. She is a true role model and the sweetest girl. Congratulations to Allison Lordbock, the new Miss Coon Rapids. I had the chance to meet her before, and I am so excited to spend the next few months with her as my local big sister queen.

Next, there was a reception at T.G.I. Fridays for the new queen. We enjoyed a great dinner with great company. By the end, my eyes had to be pried open. I was exhausted after a long day. Alyssa and her mom, Heather, Jeanette and Ms. Dianne, my mom and I returned home for a slumber party. It did not last long. We were all sleeping within the next hour.










