Friday, March 12th, 2010

Pageant of Hope Rehearsal
The Pageant of Hope is a new pageant for girls with special needs and challenges. This was the first year that it was run and I was so excited to be part of it. I had attended the orientation about a month ago where I met all the girls competing. Tonight, they had their first walk on the stage, which was a new experience for most. The pageant was at The Seasons Restaurant in Coon Rapids, which was very convenient for me. The Seasons is so generous and has done many things for the Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen organization as well. I was amazed at the energy and fun the girls were having on-stage! I was impressed and it was very inspiring. The Pageant of Hope volunteers have worked so hard, and I could not wait for the actual pageant the next day to see everything unfold. Happy Birthday to Hannah, the current queen! She celebrated her birthday after rehearsal with a few of contestants and their parents.

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

Today, in French class, we had a speaking test with a partner. A classmate and I were so worried that we would mess up! There were two sentences that we struggled with, but we did it and got a perfect! French class reminds me of Jacques. My family and I really miss the spark he brought to our house this summer. He became part of the family! I wish him the best of luck on his big test and next year in college.

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010

After school, I spent 40 minutes of my time, once again, at a local nursing home, Park River Estates. I love coming here. Cami, the activity coordinator that walks around with me is really cool. She does great at her job and brings me to as many residents as possible. George has continued to bring smiles to faces. It is awesome when a resident remembers George’s name after two weeks of not seeing him. It shows that we truly have made a lasting impression.

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.

Friday, February 5th, 2010

It was a busy day with so much to get done. Jeanette and I woke up early. We had coordinated our outfits the night before and both were wearing sweater dresses. Our first stop was to meet with the mayor- the Honorable Tim Howe. Mayor Howe has been so supportive of my journey as Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen, and this is also the fourth Miss America’s Outstanding Teen that he has met. He knows a lot about the organization and what it represents.



Next, we ate lunch and signed autographs for a few senior citizens of Coon Rapids. This was not only an effort to bridge the generation gap, but I love hearing the life stories many elder citizens have. Some make me realize how much more society offers today, and how many more people take life in month by month without truly appreciating what we have been given.

After this, we had some downtime. So, the four of us returned home, packed for the busy day tomorrow, chatted about Miss America, which was only a week ago, and looked through a ton of photos. We finished the day off at Miss Coon Rapids rehearsal, where we met up with Alyssa Mayfield, and her mom, and Brooke, Miss Minnesota.



Thursday, February 4th, 2010

Jeanette Morelan, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen flew in on Thursday. I went to school, and Lisa picked me up at the end of the day. We went down to McCormick & Schmicks, where we would meet my mom, Ms. Dianne, and Jeanette. I was so excited to see her! We had been texting each other all week! Dinner was wonderful. Jeanette and I share the love of pot stickers and putting ketchup on most foods. Thank you to John, my dad, who bought us dinner and put Jeanette’s name at the top of the menu, Chef George for making a fabulous dinner, and Jake, our waiter, for being his funny self.



We were now off to the Miss Coon Rapids rehearsal. It was my first preview of the contestants. Boy, were there talented girls! Each would have represented my hometown of Coon Rapids well. We finished the night off with bowling. Yes, being on a bowling league, I creamed Jeanette. Sorry Jeanette! It was a very friendly competition. To put her in the bowling mood, she even wore my official bowling shirt.



The night was not over yet. At the restaurant, we were so full that we did not have room for dessert. My dad had brought us one of every dessert home to eat. To end the night, we took a bunch of forks and had a taste of everything. Plus, Jeanette had brought us a kringle from her hometown. We went to bed with smiling faces and happy tummies.

MISS AMERICA!

Sunday, January 31st

We flew home today. We left for the airport at 6 A.M. We did not return home in Minnesota until 5 P.M. Our flight made a quick stop in Denver, Colorado and then California! So really, I visited 3 states this week! It was a tiring week and I slept the whole plane ride. It was nice to be home and to see my dad, brother, George and my other pets. Can you imagine? I had school the next day. YIKES!

Saturday, January 30th

Saturday was a lazy day. The three of us, Lisa, my mom, and I, slept in. Then we went out to eat, got ready, and left for the final night of Miss America! We all looked great. I had on a purple, floral Tony Bowl’s dress. Robert and I had coordinated ahead of time. He had on a purple vest and tie. I received my new dress as a gift just a few days before we were leaving for Vegas. It was definitely too big, but our seamstress, Laurie, worked really hard to fix it up. I did not get to try it on before we got on the plane, I was praying that it would fit, and it did! It was perfect! She can do wonders! As we walked down the street, people did double takes, congratulated me on my win, and told me that I looked great! This was an assuring feeling! With all the confidence given to me, I could have been competing on that stage. All the teens had been given tickets as a group on the bottom floor. Brooke had known where I would be sitting and we exchanged eye contact and gestures to each other throughout the night.

The energy of the auditorium was high and the contestants looked great.



Although Brooke did not make it into the top 15, we are all so proud of her. She definitely represented Minnesota well. One of the most exciting moments of the night was when CC, Miss Oregon, was chosen by the girls as the last contestant to be in the top 15. I was sitting next to Amanda and we jumped up! The show went on. It is way different watching it on TV. During the commercial breaks we just sat there and talked. As the competition narrowed down further and further, finally the crowning moment was up. Miss Virginia, Caressa Cameron is the new Miss America for 2010. She will represent our nation well. With grace, poise, confidence, style, and wisdom, she is the full package. Congratulations!



After the show, I went up to visitation to give Brooke a huge hug and for the usual picture with Lauren, Miss Brainerd Lakes. This is where we found out that Brooke had won a nonfinalist talent award. It is well deserved.



My mom, Lisa, and I enjoyed dinner and then I was off once again. This evening, Robert, Veronica, and I were going on the roller coaster at New York, New York. It was a blast! It was definitely one of the highlights of my trip. I went to Vegas with a list of things I wanted to do. It was a very short list and only consisted of one thing… riding the roller coaster. It was a beautiful night in the city, and I’m glad I got to share my last night with friends. I MISS VERONICA! L

Friday, January 29th

Words cannot express what a wonderful day I had. It was an early morning again, and I was looking forwards to Saturday because it was the first morning I would be able to sleep in. Today, Miss Nevada’s Outstanding Teen, with the help of her director, Michael Hannah, and many generous donors and supporters, the MAOT class of 2009 had a fun filled day out in Las Vegas. We all met in the lobby of Planet Hollywood for group photos. It was really cool because all of us had matching pink shirts but we all dressed the shirts up differently. Our bus came and we all received a goodie bag. Our first stop was at the St. Rose Dominican Children’s Hospital where we listened to speakers and met a few Children’s Miracle Network kids and families. I would like to wish David the best of luck. God has truly played a role in his life and given him the strength to get through his cancer. We enjoyed a wonderful lunch given to us at the hospital, signed autographs for the kids, and were off to our next destination.



Next, we were going to the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign for photo opportunities. Did you know that the lady that designed the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign never patented it? So, every time someone uses it, she does not get paid! She could be a millionaire! Elvis greeted us, and we all had the opportunity to meet the mayor of Las Vegas, who took the time out of his busy schedule to take photos with us. Amanda, Miss Oregon’s Outstanding Teen, and I took many photos. It was great getting to spend the day with my best friend.





Our next visit was at the Paris Hotel. We went to the top of the Eiffel Tower. The one in Vegas is only a fifth of the size of the real one and boy, was this replica is tall! Amanda, Jill, Miss Pennsylvania’s Outstanding Teen and I were the first girls to go up. I took many pictures of the strip below us and we had a blast. We all were wondering what the maximum capacity of the tower was… thankfully we were all safe.



Our last stop was back at Planet Hollywood for an autograph signing. We were all tired and happy to sit down. It was great to see all the people who wanted our autographs. It was a wonderful end to a great day.



Jordan- you were an outstanding host for the day. Thank you so much for planning such a fabulous day. You are truly a role model and a real friend.

Thank you to all the donors and helpers for this event. I am so gracious and appreciate everything you have done for the Outstanding Teen Organization. It was a stress free day. The atmosphere was completely different than when we competed in August. It is sad to think that this was the last time all of us would be together as a group. L

I MISS AMANDA!!!!



But, my day was not over yet. My mom, Lisa and I were off to the Harrah to see the Legends show. It was awesome! The impersonators looked so real! I was bummed that I couldn’t get my picture taken with Michael Jackson. I also saw the volcano blow up! As much as I thought it would be intense and exciting, it was actually graceful and pretty.

The Miss America Behind the Scenes was also on tonight. We returned to the hotel; we stayed at Paris. Oh, I forgot to explain what a beautiful sight my hotel window overlooked. The Eiffel Tower was right outside my window with the Belagio water lights behind it. At night, the view was amazing. I was now off to Veronica’s, Miss Alaska’s Outstanding Teen, room. Veronica, her sister, Jill, and I watched the show. I was sad that Brooke wasn’t shown a lot, but excited for CC, Brooke’s roommate, Miss Oregon, and my best friends big sister, had a lot of TV time! Jill fell asleep after a long, tiring day. Veronica and I went out to get a taste of Las Vegas at night.



I forgot to mention that the Kueppers boys, Andrew and Robert, had flown in while we were visiting the hospital. I have become friends with both of them, which in a way is weird because Vicki, their mom, was one of my judges at Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen. Veronica and I met up with them and walked around Vegas. Later that night, we also saw Ali, Miss South Carolina’s Outstanding Teen, so we invited her to hang out with us as well. I am so glad I got to opportunity to talk to her. During competition Ali and I never actually had a conversation, and I’m glad that we did not pass this opportunity up. My mom was so laid back. She let me stay out late with my friends. I love you, Mom.



Thursday, January 28th

Rehearsal… once again. The teens, including myself, were all putting on a presentation during the final night of preliminary competition. So, we had about five hours of rehearsal on Thursday. This included my first experience on the Miss America stage. It is HUGE! Hopefully, it won’t be the last for me. J I also received my interview DVD from the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition. All the girls were scared to watch theirs, and I even considered throwing it away. What happened five months ago was done and over with. I had done my best. When I got home, I caved in and I’m glad I did. It wasn’t as bad as I had thought it to be.



We would be dancing to the Hoedown, Throwdown by Miley Cyrus. We had pink cowboy hats and cut off shorts. It was a really cute number, but I am always faced with the fact that I cannot dance. There are techniques to being a bad dancer though. If you struggle with the same disadvantage, email me. I’ll let you in on my little secrets. I felt like I was the only girl that did not have that dance down pat on the stage Thursday night. I had a great time though; it was a real rush. Being on that stage was so exciting. The crowd was cheering and the enthusiasm was high. I loved it. Maybe my destiny is a job on stage!



Did I mention that I got to meet Clinton Kelly? He was backstage with us and I shook his hand! Embarrassing that it had to be in a pink cowboy hat, cut off shorts, and a bandana. I also saw Brooke backstage before she went on stage for onstage question. She looked ready for anything.



All throughout my busy day, my mom and Lisa had a relaxing day. They did not have to wake up at 8 A.M. and they were not on their feet dancing around in pink cowboy hats.

Brooke did amazing again. She competed in on stage question. Today was an exhausting day. I slept like a baby.

Wednesday, January 27th

It was an early morning, 4 A.M. My mom, Lisa, and I had a plane to catch to Las Vegas! I only missed one day of school because we had Thursday and Friday off, but I did miss all my finals. So when I returned home, that would be the first order of business. I slept most of the plane ride. Not to mention it kept me from experiencing the pain of popped ears.



When we landed in Vegas, it was raining. It rained the whole day. I knew I should have brought my umbrella, but my mom, who has been to Vegas before told me that it doesn’t rain often there. So, I left it at home. Las Vegas must have gotten enough rain for the whole year! Unfortunately, our plane did not land soon enough for me to go to the teen commercial shoot, but we did make it in time for the trade show. The first girl I saw was Idaho and emotions poured out. I could not hold back tears. I haven’t seen any of these girls for a really long time and it was overwhelming to be with them again. At the tradeshow, I saw everybody- my best friend, Amanda, Miss Oregon’s Outstanding Teen, Kathy Shellum and the Minnesota group, Jeanette Morelan, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, and all the other girls I competed with! It was so exciting! Every time I turned around there was a new face waiting to greet me.

Next, I had my first official look at Las Vegas. Even in the rain I saw many things. I was continuously amazed at the beauty and vast diversity of the city. Slot machines to gardens of flowers! And the most expensive store I have ever stepped foot in, Louis Vuitton!



The girls and I had a commercial shoot before the Miss America preliminary show. So, we were soon back at our hotel to freshen up my rainy hair and makeup. I officially saw all the girls who had flown to Vegas at our shoot. It was like we were back in Orlando competing because we all had to pose for pictures and wear our Tony Bowls dresses.



Brooke, Miss Minnesota, competed in talent and she rocked the Miss America stage. I was so proud of her and could not stop cheering! I couldn’t wait to see her at visitation that night and give her a huge hug and congratulate her. My night ended with a smile and a sore back from all the walking.

September through the first part of January

Time has flown by! I can’t believe that it is now January and I have not written a single blog! Let me recap these past few months for you.

School has been tough. I have all honors classes including English, chemistry and my first A.P. class, Stats and Probability, which is by far the HARDEST class I have ever taken! I have been keeping up and have continued to work towards good grades. I got my license on September 28th and celebrated my 16th birthday cheering on the Minnesota Wild against my second favorite hockey team- the St. Louis Blues. I had my first job at American Eagle. Although it was a seasonal position, I got a taste of what the real world is like… And the discount didn’t hurt my wallet either! All the holidays have passed and were celebrated with my friends and family.

George and I have continued to visit and added two new facilities to our routine. Both are in Cambridge- Minnesota Extended treatment Center and Grace Point Crossing Care Center. George has continued to brighten up the lives of many people and is the best partner in crime that I could ask for.

I have had many appearances. Here is an overview of my favorites. My school asked me to participate in own homecoming parade.



I had the opportunity to wrap gifts at Southdale Mall with a local church to raise money for their charity. I am so blessed to have met them. They are truly generous people. It is because of people like them that remind me how much I truly love Minnesota… but not the weather. We have continued to stay in touch through emails.



I also had the chance to ring the bell at Southdale Mall as a local celebrity for the Salvation Army. I am amazed at the amount of donations that were given! Drum roll please… my bucket had a whopping $5.50! (It’s because I was not in the path of mall walkers.) Every dollar counts!



A WILD GAME! (By far my favorite event, so far) Thanks to Lisa, who has the best connections, Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen rode on the zamboni between the first and second period. I wish I could have met the team too. Hockey is my favorite sport and the Wild ROCKS!



New Years Eve Party at the Brooklyn Park Community Center- I walked in and DJ Bob was there! I met him earlier in November with Brooke, Miss Minnesota, at an event at Macy’s. I thought it was funny that we crossed paths again! I loved seeing the enthusiasm of all the little kids. We brought in the New Year together (at 8:30 P.M.) and I signed my first arm!



I went ice-skating for the first time in six years too. Most of the kids were more skilled than me! I was so scared that I would fall and break my crown. I have a new aspiration though, figure skating. Here I come 2014 Winter Olympics! J



Lastly, is Brooke’s send off to Miss America. Brooke, I just want to say that you have been such an inspiration to me and a great role model to all Minnesota including myself. I couldn’t have asked for a better “big sister.” J I love sharing these experiences with you and I can’t wait to see what the remainder of the year brings for us.



So, there’s an overview! I would like to thank everyone that has made my year fabulous. And thank you to my family. My mom, dad, and even brother have been behind me every step of the way, and I am so thankful.

While in Florida for the MAOT competition, I did have a journal. I am copying my journal almost exactly as it was written. Enjoy!

August 17^th, 2009

I AM GLAD TO BE HOME! I don’t think you realize how much you truly miss your family, and friends until you are not in contact with them for 10 days.

August 15^th, 2009

The final day at Miss America’s Outstanding Teen. Kelly and I thought nothing else could go bad but boy, were we wrong. We had two alarm clocks in our room. One just in case the hotel alarm clock didn’t work. Friday night, we had set them for 5:30 A.M. because Kelly was going to get up early and take a shower and then wake me up at 6:30 A.M. because I am a little less motivated in the morning. So she wakes me up, I lazily wash my face and then look at the alarm clock closest to my bed which reads as 5:35 A.M. I ask Kelly what time it is and she says it’s 6:30 and I tell her that this clock must be wrong then because it says 5:35. We are a little unsure (not to mention it’s too early to really think.) So, Kelly goes outside our room to ask the security guard what time it is and she replies that is 5:30 and she was wondering why we were up so early when no one else will be getting up for at least another hour. We laugh and set our alarms now for 7:00 A.M. Next thing I know, it is 8:46 A.M. and I can hear, “Alabama, Alaska, Arizona…” outside our door. Our alarm clock never went off and we were about to miss roll call too! Frantically, we pack up our Dolly Duffle (that is what we all called our duffle bags we brought to the convention center each night) to go to rehearsal. We had no make up on, no breakfast in our stomachs, and had just woken up. Five hours of rehearsal was tough on an empty stomach. Luckily, a few of the girls had some snacks they generously gave to me. Good thing I had spent that night packing everything up for my mom to take out of my room!!