NCL Christmas party

Last night was absolutely wonderful. We had our second annual National Charity League Christmas party. Some of my best friends are in this program and we always have such a fabulous time. We started the night by having some delicious clam chowder and hot apple cider; yummy! We then toured the harbor on my friend Cassie's boat. We had the best time watching the fireworks and singing Christmas carols. It was great to see all the boats decorated with Christmas lights; it was truly beautiful. It was so nice to catch up with all my friends; they are such a blessing.

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Lauren's Sweet 16

My best friend, Lauren Beltran, had her sweet 16 last weekend. I was so glad that I could be with her on her special day and the party was absolutely wonderful. The decorations were amazing; a ton of lights and even ice sculptures!! I have been friends with Lauren since I was a little baby and she is such a treasured friend. I can't believe that she is already 16!!! Wow!!! I was so excited to give her a Juicy Couture purse- I think that she really liked it. Here's a fun fact: Lauren's birthday is the same as my mom's and Walt Disney's!!

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Cookie Lee Christmas Party

Last weekend I went to a lovely Cookie Lee Jewelry party. It was so nice to catch up with my pageant friends and the jewelry was so cute! (I even got a free pair of earrings!) The Gushwa family hosted the party; they always have the best Christmas decorations! I'm so excited that the Christmas season is here!

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NCL Fundraiser

Last night was amazing!!! We had our annual NCL Fundraiser at the Saticoy Country Club. My family got all dressed up in our western garb and we definitely had a blast! The dinner was delicious and they served warm apple cobbler for desert...sooo good! All of my friends were there to dance and we had such a wonderful time! I can't tell you what a good time I had- I could have danced all night!

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A Relaxing Weekend

Evan and I had a wonderful weekend last week! We went on a beautiful hike up in Ojai (even though we had to turn around due to the fire hazard). We spent time with my relatives from Idaho and spent time with my new born cousin, Alexandra. (Though I call her Lexi!) We also went to dinner with Evan's sister for her birthday and saw her newborn, Gracie. We were so busy, but we had a great time! Not to mention, Kiko was definitely a supermodel- he has been photographed quite a lot lately!

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Spirit Week

Last week was Spirit Week at school and I was in charge of managing the entire week! It turned out to be a fair amount of work, but I think that the student body enjoyed it. Monday was Pajama day, Tuesday was 80's day, Wednesday was Twin day, Thursday was Buena and Ventura Nerd day, and Friday was Superhero day. On Tuesday, I hosted a "skip it" contest and we definitely had a lot of school participation. During the week, I passed out candy to the students that dressed up; I could not believe how eager they were for a tiny piece of candy! The week was a hit and I hope that my peers had as much fun as I did!

"Wicked"

I had an amazing weekend! On Sunday I met with the Ticktockers to see the performance of "Wicked" at the Pantages Theater. We went by charter bus and we had a great time catching up. The friendships that I have made through this organization are some of the best in my life, and they all mean so much to me. We got to the theater an hour and a half early, so we definitely had some time to kill. We walked all around the Farmer's Market and it was quite a "people watching" adventure. We stumbled upon the cutest animals for adoption. There were puppies and kittens; they were all so friendly and lovable. I felt so bad because they would have four cats in a tiny cage; I wish that there was something I could do to help them. I was so excited once the show started! This was my second time (the first time was with Evan on a date!) and I loved it just as much. The singing and acting were phenomenal and watching the performance always leaves me wishing that I could perform like that. The best part was when we went to the actor's exit and got to meet the cast and get their signatures! I thought that it was the neatest thing ever!

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Halloween!!

This past week was Halloween and I had a great time! I was a cat by day and Cleopatra by night. At first I was just planning on passing out candy to the kids in our neighborhood but then I was invited to go trick or treating with some friends. We watched part of "Scream", which I had never seen before and then we went and collected our candy. I guess that deep down, I am still a kid at heart! Not to mention, Kiko and I had a fun photo shoot earlier in the day since we were both cats!

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Camarillo Relay for Life

Yesterday and today I volunteered at the Camarillo Relay for Life. It was our annual Ticktocker Day so I gathered with my friends to volunteer. We decorated luminaria bags and helped in whatever way we could. Later in the day, I hosted a "Relay pageant", which was definitely interesting. When I hosted one in Ventura, everyone was welcome- however, yesterday only drag queens were allowed to participate! It was quite entertaining. I also made special announcements about cancer prevention along with the progress that the American Cancer Society is making. This morning, I helped pick up trash and clean up the event. I'm definitely exhausted today- too bad that I have a ton of homework!

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Excited for Autumn!

Jeez, I honestly feel like I have no life these days! All I ever do is homework and studying! They say that your junior year is the hardest- and I believe it! However, I have been getting rather excited for autumn this year! I am planning a Halloween party for my fellow ASB members which should be fun. It's a costume party and I'm exctied to say that I am going as Cleopatra!!
I got to spend time with Evan this past weekend and we had a great time together. We went to church with his grandparents and went to the pumpkin patch of all places. I guess I'm still a kid at heart because I still love going to places like that. I got to hold the baby sheep and chicklets; so incredibly cute! Evan and I went on a hayride; just like the good ol' days. Once we got home, we carved our pumpkins; Evan designed a ghost and I created a Siamese cat. We also made caramel apples to fit the occasion of fall's arrival. It was a wonderful weekend and I look forward to some more exciting adventures during fall!

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Self Defense Class

Last weekend I met up with the Ticktockers at a Tae Kwon Do Center to learn how to defend our selves. It was very interesting and I learned all about the key points to hit if you are attacked. However, I really think the key to being "defensive" is simply by not being alone and also don't go out at night by yourself. I think I have to stay with this advice instead of testing my luck because I wasn't exactly the strongest in the bunch!

Hiking in Thousand Oaks

I must admit, I have fallen behind on my postings...I have just been soo busy with school! So I guess I have some catching up to do. Well, two weeks ago, Evan and I went on a beautiful hike. We bought a hike book with 82 trails, and we have made it our goal to each one! Sadly, we have only done two so far. Anyways, it was a wonderful trip, except for the heat. We saw a constructed teepee, a creek, and an actual waterfall. I was so surprised because there has been a terrible drought all year. We had a lot of fun until I got overheated and nearly passed out on the trail- oh joy! It was quite the adventure, but we got home safely in the end!

Ticktocker Sleepover

Last weekend I had a great time with the girls at our annual Ticktocker sleepover. At the beginning we had two college speakers give us a presentation about scholarships, funding, and college requirements. Afterward, we conducted our business meeting and had fun just spending time together. We then relaxed at the beach and got some great tanning in. The house where we stayed was beautiful; three stories right on the beach! At night we had a bonfire with smores and we even had home made ice cream. My favorite part was staying up till 2:30 with my friends laughing the night away. In the morning, we enjoyed chocolate chip pancakes and went home!

Finals at Miss Teen California

It's been a while since I've had the chance to update my blog! Things have been pretty hectic going back to school. Finals night at the California International pageants was great; bittersweet but great. Breia Boswell is the new Miss Teen California, Jan Humphrey is the new Miss California, and Stevie McShane is the new Mrs. California. It's going to be a great year!

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Saturday in Palm Springs

Another busy day in Palm Springs! I began the day by recording my farewell speech, which was very sad! It's hard to pass on the title. As happy as I am for the next girl, I wish that the fun could go on! Anyways, after recording it was time for rehearsal! A long process, but completely necessary.
It was then time for the preliminary show!! How exciting. I got to MC last night which was a total blast! I had never done that before and I loved it! The girls did a great job in fun fashion, fitness, and evening gown. It is definitely a tough competition!
After the show we went to amazingly beautiful dinner; it was so lavishly decorated! The dinner was delicious, and my favorite (cheesecake) was for desert! The winners were announced for prelims; there were a lot of ties.
Since I'm not competing I went down to the pool to relax- which was very much needed. I can't wait for today to see who I get to crown!

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Friday in Palm Springs

Yesterday was such a long day, but a fun day as well. I started out the day by helping the girls before they went into interview. I gave them a few last minute tips before they went in and it was fun seeing all their suits! After that, I went to help some girls with the walking patterns. I then had some free time which was very much needed; I've been feeling exhausted!
We then took our official group photo in the 110 degree weather. Afterward, Evan and I went on the most gorgeous golf course. Although I don't golf YET, I still had fun driving the golf cart! Afterward I got ready for my CBN news interview which was a blast!! I was surprised at how small the interview room was. I did the interview with the former Miss International 2006, Brittany Frick. What a neat experience.
I then caught up with the girls to go on the Aerial tramway for dinner. It was a lot of fun and we even saw bats! It was such a fun day!

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Thursday in Palm Springs

Yesterday I arrived in Palm Springs to begin my farewell week as Miss Teen California. I first went to the gown sponsor, where I was given to gorgeous gowns with beautiful earrings to match. Our hotel is very lovely, but very HOT (about 115 degrees). We're in Palm Springs so I guess I should accept it. Anyway, orientation was really fun and I got to meet the girls and tell them about what my year was like. Everyone seems to be really nice and it's fun seeing old and new faces.
After orientation we were driven in limos to the Matchbox Restaurant for dinner. It was delicious and it was the perfect chance for myself and the girls to "mingle". :)
We then walked along the street fair and went shopping, though I didn't buy anything.
It was a great night and I'll keep updated!

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Ventura County Fair

Evan and I went to the fair three times while it was here this year! We had a blast looking throught all the exhibits. We went to the photography building, commercial, youth, and home economics buildings as well (Not so sure that Evan liked that last one). We walked through the gardens and of course looked at the adorable piglets. Not to mention, we saw the Beach Boys and Lifehouse in concert. It was great- especially since I loove the Beach Boys. John Stamos (Uncle Jesse on Full House) is in the band too, so that made it all the better. We went on a bunch of carnival rides; surprisingly I got up the nerve to ride the "Kamikaze". We ended the last night at the fair by watching fireworks while on the ferris wheel- it was the perfect time!

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The Birth of Gracie Jane Soto

Last Thursday my boyfriend's sister had a beautiful baby girl named Graciela Jane Soto. She is so adorable, especially with the pink bow in her hair! She was seven pounds and seven ounces and she was born around 2:30. We were all at the hospital for over 24 hours so we were very excited when she was born! I'm so thrilled!

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Beach House

This past week I had a very relaxing trip at the beach house. It was the perfect vacation and family getaway. My family has been going to the beach house for over 30 years, so it is a huge family tradition for us.
I don't surf, but I definitely boogie boarded and spent time going on long walks on the beach. I also sewed a lot and did my summer reading. :) Furthermore, I have been very interested in cooking lately so I made meatloaf, clam chowder, tacos, and spaghetti for the family.
Another great aspect of the trip was that my second cousin Tori came out with her six week old daughter, Alexandra. We call her Lexi though. She is absolutely adorable and I can already tell that she is very intelligent. It will be so much fun watching her grow up!
What a wonderful week it has been and I can't wait till next year!

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Ventura County Fair Parade

Last weekend I participated in the Ventura County Fair Parade. Although it was quite the hassle finding a car, we finally ended up with a PT Cruiser convertible. It was great once we got there; that's the thing that I love about parades- you always see people that you know.
I saw my friends from the days of Ventura County's Outstanding Teen 2005. I also saw the Ventura cheer leading squad, which I used to be apart of. I also met up with Connie and the Crowning Glory girls. The upcoming state pageant is this week so I will definitely keep you updated!
The parade was a ton of fun and I was even given a red rose while riding in the parade. What a great day!

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Dinner with Kimmi

Last night I went out to dinner with Kimmi, her mom, Irene, and her grandma, Christina, along with my parents at P.F. Chang's. We see them about once a year since they live in Alabama. They are close family friends and it has been fun watching Kimmi grow up. She's already eight years old and she traveled to Germany, Italy, Florida, and Ventura this summer- I'm jealous! Anyway, we had a great time visiting with them and I can't wait to see them soon again!

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Going Home

The next morning we had a ton of packing to do! We had 15 suitcases total and it was quite the challenge getting them all to the airport. The Chicago airport is beautiful and I was so sad to go home. I will miss the girls so incredibly much and I wish it wasn't over. We definitely should have a reunion because this truly was the experience of a lifetime. I guess the saying applies, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."

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Finals in Chicago

Saturday was the big day! We had a long day of rehearsal that made me feel so sad! I realized how much I was going to miss all the girls and I didn't want to go! We were all sad and there were definitely some tears shed.
When finals came, I was feeling very nervous. After we did our opening number it was time to announce the top ten. Actually, it was a top 11 because there was a tie. I was announced number 10 so I thought I wouldn't make it because I was called so late. Yet when I did, I was absolutely thrilled.
I was so anxious in fact that when I was supposed to get in my interview suit, I put on fun fashion! Once I did get in my interview suit, I prepared to answer my on-stage question. I feel like I did pretty well. I then modeled in fun fashion, aerobic, and evening gown. After that, it was time to announce the winner. Although I did not win, I was able to place 3rd runner up, which was exciting. Out of 36 girls, 4th place is pretty good! Miss Teen Ohio won Miss Teen International; I know that she will do a great job with the title.
After the crowning we all went to the Coronation Ball, which was a blast! We all got to eat ice cream sundaes and dance the night away. It was our last hoorah before the end of our trip and it was definitely bittersweet.
**By the way, if anyone is reading this blog feel free to leave comments!

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Friday in Chicago

Friday was my free day. After sleeping in (finally) we had a nice breakfast at Ihop. We then headed off to the big city to go to the Field Museum. They have the largest T-rex named Sue. They also had amazing dioramas of all of the animals you could imagine. We saw an exhibit about the ancient Egyptians and also about the Ancient Americas. The museum was huge and I was very impressed. We met up with the Beltrans so it was fun to go through the day with them.
After going to the museum, I got ready to go to the Miss prelims. My sister queen Mary did a great job and it was exciting to watch the show. It was another fabulous day!

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Thursday in Chicago

Thursday was a nerve-racking but thrilling day. I began the day with a make-up session for my interview. My interview began at 10:30 and I definitely had the jitters. I wore a beautiful Jovani suit that my director got me. The judges were all friendly and female. I was excited because two out of the five judges had been American Cancer Society volunteers. It was nice because before interview we all prayed together. (I definitely have prayed a lot this past week!)
I felt like my interview went well, but alas it goes by so fast! After interview I headed into a long day of rehearsals. However, during rehearsal I got to meet the most amazing girls and make friendships that will last forever. I wish that they lived here in California!!
After rehearsal, the time had arrived for prelims. I felt like I did fairly well; we did aerobic wear, fun fashion, and evening gown. I had fun competing and surprisingly, I wasn't that nervous. It was so nice to have all my family and friends there. They are an amazing support system and I love them all so much! I got to go out to dinner with the Beltran family and it was so nice to finally relax!

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