Good morning from Chicago~
After some sleep and cuddletime with Carter (my favorite time of the day), I thought I would do a quick update.
Last night was wonderful. I just felt happy, excited and again hopeful! It started with the opening number which is "fun". It just makes me happy. I have actually downloaded "strut" to my iphone:)I made it through the dance and I got my name right, yeah....oh and I didn't fall....thank goodness!
Next fitness...I felt good and was proud to have lost the 30 pounds I gained since having Carter in January. Yes, some may have been taller, thinner and more tone but I was me and thrilled to have just been able to wear the two piece!
Next evening gown...LOVED SO MANY OF THE GOWNS! I can always spot a "Joey" gown. There were many standouts to me and far to many to mention. There were atleast 46! When I walked across the stage, after being greeted by my wonderful husband, I was able to look out and see Lois Lane, Benjamin and Carter...all was good and no matter the outcome, I was thrilled to just be on the stage.
Eddie the California Director has given a few very motivational speeches. (love him) I agree with so much of what he has said. To me, I have learned that life is a journey and it is what you make of it. I have had many struggles in my life. I have lost both parents, my son spent 165 days in the NICU, Andy's deployment, Lois breast cancer and you know what, I AM NOT SPECIAL or UNIQUE. So many people go through so much everyday. As I look around, I have NO RIGHT to feel sorry for myself for anything. I had a choice to lay down in life or stand up and fight back. We do pageants to help ourselves and we hope others to get out of our world and make a difference. Each of the 46 contestants has set a journey for themselves that has includes giving back. Each cause so worthy and each heart behind it so passionate.
Of course I would love to be the next Mrs International, we all would. However, wearing the crown does not make me the winner. My husband, my son, my family and my God...makes me the winner. Because I am here, surrounded by love, family, friends and faith...I am the queen. The queen of hearts!
Wish me luck tonight and Good luck to all of the ladies tonight. God has already determined our destiny so today/tonight, lets just SHINE:)!
5 comments:
Your post brought tears to my eyes. I am SO SO SO proud of you and grateful to call you friend. I'm thrilled you are having a good time and so happy to know that you feel great about what you are doing and where you are doing. I love you so much!! Keeping shining!! and much Luck tonight!!
I'm there in spirit!
XOXOXOXO
Ang
You always have the best attitude, and that makes you a winner in my book.
Most of my life my mom has had a piece of stained-glass art in her kitchen that my god-mother made for her when I was a kid. It reads "People are like stained glass windows, interesting and complex, but only truly beautiful when lit from within."
Shine on!
Joy in AL
You do SHINE, beautiful! Best of luck tonight. Enjoy the ride !
Deanna, I wish you the best of luck tonight! You are a beautiful person inside and out!
-Jess Plante
PS- Carter is gorgeous! And as always, love the gown!
Beautifully written! I love Eddie's speeches as well. Best of luck tonight!
Marla
Mrs. Lake Dardanelle Intl 2009
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