Good Morning,
Holly and I are just getting ready to leave for the day. It takes anywhere from 20 minutes to a half an hour to walk from the Excalibur to Planet Hollywood. So much for the optical illusion that it is much closer. We will cab it mostly depending on our feet.
We ran into Elyse family last night in front of the hotel, Mom, Step-Dad and the girls had all of their luggage and were looking for the lobby. They were so excited! Wearing their smashing black Washington t-shirts. Holly and I took them down to the lobby and gave them the lay of the land.
We also ran into Roy and Noreen buying water, Patti,Carol, Pat Scott and Karalynn eating in the over-priced but very tasty new cafe. All of the Miss America girls were in there eating, so that was a treat to see all of them. Some looked great and some looked a bit haggard. For the record, Elyse looked great.
We talked with Peggy, Mike and Charlie about Elyse's interview, which went great as Peggy reported. There are some new shops in the mall attached Planet Hollywood, but our old favorites were still there.
I bought some great earrings at Aldo, things you just can't find in Washington if you know what I mean.I hope to update you before tonight's show, we will see how good I am at time management this week.
Until next time...Michele
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Arriving in Vegas (1/21)
Hello All,
Holly and I just unpacked our suitcases after walkingthe longest hallway in hotel history... Not really but it just seemed so since we misread the room number and went down another long hallway before we realized our mistake.
Anyway we are staying at the economically priced Excalibur hotel, for those of you who know me, youwill get the joke immediately, our bathroom is quitespacious and so is the shower, the only thing missingis my TUB! I suppose I will have to bring my Epsom salts in a ziplock and see if I can soak over at thePlanet Hollywood sometime...
We have a view of the Luxor and the big pyramid andthe beautiful Mandalay Bay. We see that they have aColdstone (thanks Kris for the gift certificate)wehave 25 big ones to spend. Holly and I are getting ready to head over to Planet Hollywood to see all of the renovations and pick up our Miss America merchandise.
Still no word on Elyse'sinterview, we rode down with Darrin and Pat Scott and they had nothing. Hopefully Peggy will spill soon.Tomorrow I pick up my Press Credentials and will signup to interview some of the ladies. I wanted to askyour opinions of who I should talk to, I am planning on Illinois and Virginia and I am curious about Utah and Alaska.
Also do you have any question suggestions. Let me know tonight and I will hit the Press Room, Sam and Art are having their kickoff Press Conference at11am tomorrow and of course we can watch rehearsals. I will let you know who the favorites are.We are off to find Lois Elaine and Ed for dinner andsee if we can pick up any scoops.
Until next time,
Michele
Holly and I just unpacked our suitcases after walkingthe longest hallway in hotel history... Not really but it just seemed so since we misread the room number and went down another long hallway before we realized our mistake.
Anyway we are staying at the economically priced Excalibur hotel, for those of you who know me, youwill get the joke immediately, our bathroom is quitespacious and so is the shower, the only thing missingis my TUB! I suppose I will have to bring my Epsom salts in a ziplock and see if I can soak over at thePlanet Hollywood sometime...
We have a view of the Luxor and the big pyramid andthe beautiful Mandalay Bay. We see that they have aColdstone (thanks Kris for the gift certificate)wehave 25 big ones to spend. Holly and I are getting ready to head over to Planet Hollywood to see all of the renovations and pick up our Miss America merchandise.
Still no word on Elyse'sinterview, we rode down with Darrin and Pat Scott and they had nothing. Hopefully Peggy will spill soon.Tomorrow I pick up my Press Credentials and will signup to interview some of the ladies. I wanted to askyour opinions of who I should talk to, I am planning on Illinois and Virginia and I am curious about Utah and Alaska.
Also do you have any question suggestions. Let me know tonight and I will hit the Press Room, Sam and Art are having their kickoff Press Conference at11am tomorrow and of course we can watch rehearsals. I will let you know who the favorites are.We are off to find Lois Elaine and Ed for dinner andsee if we can pick up any scoops.
Until next time,
Michele
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
On to Clark County/Greater Vancouver
The second stop for February pageants was Miss Clark County/Miss Greater Vancouver. Riding shotgun again was Amy Wiltse, this time I was judging. My girls were at another appearance so we were stag. As we were driving down I-5 a friendly face came up along side us, it was Darrin calling me on his cell phone. And so the fun began...
It was great to spend the weekend judging with the three D's, Dot, Donna and Darrin. We also had a novus judge named Ron Karsten from Oregon. He fit right in with the rest of us which is no easy task. Our guide and host for the weekend was Wayne Reynolds, Nichola's very cool husband. It is so great to see a spouse so involved in the program.
Mushi-Mushi (aka Kristen) was also there for the weekend, we are all still recovering from our Miss America experience. I do love to watch her perform, but even more than that I love to watch her interact with all of the contestants. She looks at them with such love and support as she asked them their On-Stage questions.
Great bunch of young women to choose from. The new Teens are Genay Tucker and Chelsea Jordan, they are beautiful and talented. Kelly Backous was named Miss Clark County again, she did a really fun tap dance to "The Jazz Police." The best part of the weekend was watching Heather Liable finally win her well deserved crown. She has been competing in Clark County for five years. She was great and it gave all of us great pleasure to be part of her judging panel.
Kristen, Amy and I made our way home around 11:00pm, Kris called us from Moses Lake so, we filled her in on the details. I dropped Kristen off around 2:00am and we met up the next morning at our annual Little Sister Tea Party. I was dead to the world by the time I got home at 7:30pm, thank goodness for champagne cake and a fork. Another adventure in the books. Next weekend it is Moses Lake and Spokane.
Fun Bus One out
It was great to spend the weekend judging with the three D's, Dot, Donna and Darrin. We also had a novus judge named Ron Karsten from Oregon. He fit right in with the rest of us which is no easy task. Our guide and host for the weekend was Wayne Reynolds, Nichola's very cool husband. It is so great to see a spouse so involved in the program.
Mushi-Mushi (aka Kristen) was also there for the weekend, we are all still recovering from our Miss America experience. I do love to watch her perform, but even more than that I love to watch her interact with all of the contestants. She looks at them with such love and support as she asked them their On-Stage questions.
Great bunch of young women to choose from. The new Teens are Genay Tucker and Chelsea Jordan, they are beautiful and talented. Kelly Backous was named Miss Clark County again, she did a really fun tap dance to "The Jazz Police." The best part of the weekend was watching Heather Liable finally win her well deserved crown. She has been competing in Clark County for five years. She was great and it gave all of us great pleasure to be part of her judging panel.
Kristen, Amy and I made our way home around 11:00pm, Kris called us from Moses Lake so, we filled her in on the details. I dropped Kristen off around 2:00am and we met up the next morning at our annual Little Sister Tea Party. I was dead to the world by the time I got home at 7:30pm, thank goodness for champagne cake and a fork. Another adventure in the books. Next weekend it is Moses Lake and Spokane.
Fun Bus One out
Monday, February 5, 2007
Welcome to the Harbor
The Fun Bus pulled into the Harbor on Friday night just in time to check into Aberdeen's Finest Motel before the first Miss Grays Harbor Outstanding Teen Pageant. A quick unpack and off to the 7th Avenue Theater, a historic theater in downtown Hoquim. I was very pleasantly surprised by the Teen Pageant, a solid great group of six contestants. Their talent is already ready for the Miss division, I am totally overwhelmed by number six, the youngest of the bunch. Her name is Connie Morgan and her version of Etta James' "At Last" totally rocks!
The theater has a draft so I bought myself a red fleece blankie for the second night, I could have sold it for big bucks, but I cuddled instead. i was Amy's guest for the Judges dinner, we ate at Bridges, yummy, I ate there last year when I judged during the big flood storm. They really know how to do seafood and I am a sucker for great seafood. Always fun to talk with the judges; Fred, Connie, Teresa and of course Grant. I love to rattle his cage because he always responds...
Off to the theater for the final night. Brenna came down with Carol and Janet. A special thank you to Alex for bringing Brenna her crown from Poulsbo. They used a spy theme for the pageant, very nicely done. A lucky 13 group of young ladies. Third time was a charm for Liisa Koski, she nearly fainted when she won. Newcomer and great vocalist Jasmine Dickhoff was equally surprised. A great team to help build the Miss Grays Harbor/Pacific Coast Program.
Thanks to Sue and the rest of the gang for their great hospitality. I look forward to seeing the new titleholders at the upcoming pageants. Next stop for the Fun Bus is Clark County. I am judging with some good friends, Dot, Donna and Darrin. I am smiling just thinking about it.
Fun Bus One out
The theater has a draft so I bought myself a red fleece blankie for the second night, I could have sold it for big bucks, but I cuddled instead. i was Amy's guest for the Judges dinner, we ate at Bridges, yummy, I ate there last year when I judged during the big flood storm. They really know how to do seafood and I am a sucker for great seafood. Always fun to talk with the judges; Fred, Connie, Teresa and of course Grant. I love to rattle his cage because he always responds...
Off to the theater for the final night. Brenna came down with Carol and Janet. A special thank you to Alex for bringing Brenna her crown from Poulsbo. They used a spy theme for the pageant, very nicely done. A lucky 13 group of young ladies. Third time was a charm for Liisa Koski, she nearly fainted when she won. Newcomer and great vocalist Jasmine Dickhoff was equally surprised. A great team to help build the Miss Grays Harbor/Pacific Coast Program.
Thanks to Sue and the rest of the gang for their great hospitality. I look forward to seeing the new titleholders at the upcoming pageants. Next stop for the Fun Bus is Clark County. I am judging with some good friends, Dot, Donna and Darrin. I am smiling just thinking about it.
Fun Bus One out
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Final Thoughts on Miss America Week
Greetings All,
Please excuse my tardiness in my final post about Miss America, time flys by when you have to come back to the real world. This is my first chance to be awake and alone, I do my best work when I am alone and can think of snappy reparte. I am listening to U2's "Beautiful Day" which could be a metaphor for my Miss America experience. The song is all about the beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis and how to look for it when it seems unattainable.
My memories of the final night of competition, I am confident that Kristen is in the Top Ten, but there are no guarantees at Miss America. I begin my bargaining, just ask for the Ten, the Five will take care of itself and then it is anyone's crown I keep telling myself. Hugs, kisses and cheers from the Poulsbo/Kitsap faithful. Wonderful to be surrounded by Brenna and our formers, Jeana, Diosa, Amy and Canon drove from LA to be with us. We have all put our hopes and prayers on Kristen for so many years and tonight was the night. A final look and I move down to the press section. I am right behind the monitors so I have a insight that others don't at this point.
Angela from the Kitsap Sun is behind me, I tell her Kristen is in the Ten, because I just saw them practice her camera shot. Then we get to eight and there are only two left and I know that California is one of them. Contestant number nine is "Miss Washington, Kristen Eddings!" Euphoria enters my body, validation of all of Kristen's hard work over these past five years and immense pride radiates from my soul. California rounds out the Ten, they smile and wave and run off stage. Swimsuit and Evening Gown are still a blur, I have since watched it on television and it is hard to reconcile that I was there watching it live.
Time for the Top Five announce and I am watching the monitors again for the clues, this time I know she did not make the Five. It happens so quickly, this dream is over, all southern states again, my northwestern pride comes up, if you only knew the opportunity you all lost in not choosing Kristen. Then I think, well I guess I get to continue to fly with Kristen, dreaming some more dreams in techno-color. Now I am just killing time until the new Miss America is chosen, anyone but Texas, I won't go into why, my favorite of the three was Miss Georgia, Amanda Kozak. I spent a lovely 15 minutes with her earlier in the week, smart, funny and very much at peace. I had always said they would pick a blond singer, the judges just picked the wrong one.
So Lauren Nelson, Miss Oklahoma is our new Miss America, I went to the press conference and she handled herself very well. She will not bring us any controversy and she will put a great face on our organization. My friend Jim is the official photographer for Oklahoma and he says she is lovely young woman. I saved him a spot for the second year in a row. Lauren was Miss Teen Oklahoma a few years back and performed on the Miss America stage in Atlantic City.
I hear getting into the reception was a bear, people were leaving by the time I got in there so I was able to come up front with our peeps. We screamed so loud for Kristen when she was announced as a Top Ten finalist I nearly fell down from the head rush. We were nearly as loud as Oklahoma who's numbers were double of ours. We all waited our turn to see Kristen. She was released to eat with all of us at the St Louis Cafe at the Paris. What started as a group of 30 jumped to nearly 60. I was getting my meal as she entered, so I ever so slyly slipped my Shrimp Scampi in front of her. She devoured the whole thing and was reborn with energy to visit with people, the Creme Brule perked her up as well. It was a perfect ending to a wonderful week.
The plane ride back was filled with Washingtonians, happy and proud of our Kristen Eddings, feeling as if we were the winners because we get to share in her life for a little bit longer. Knowing that it was Kristen who broke the Top Ten streak after 15 years.
I want to take a few moments to thank people who gave so much of themselves on this journey. The first two are my children Aaron and Holly who have had to see less of their mother and who have been more than understanding because they love Kristen so much. My mother and father Lynda and Bruce Nilsen, who without their love and support both spiritually and financially, this dream would have never gotten off the ground. We have to thank Lynda for booking the wonderful Washington family luncheon at the Paris. They are ready for us anytime we want to visit again.
Mom and Dad took care of the Eddings family and our friends from the Kitsap Peninsula during Miss America week. Your kindness and generosity never ceases to amaze me. I thank you for being such wonderful role models of service above self.
To Kris and Amy who have been my rocks throughout Miss Washington week until now. thank you my friends for keeping me level headed and for lightening my load when it needed to be.And also for putting together the awesome Kristen banner that we hung in the theater, you guys rock. To Marie, I will share a bed with you anytime, your humor and kindness are unmatched. To the Fab Four, Amanda, Lori and Debbie (aka Kibbie) and the fablings, Maegan, Breonna, Britney and Anna thank you for all of the work parties making signs and posters. It would not have been the same in Vegas without you.
Please excuse my tardiness in my final post about Miss America, time flys by when you have to come back to the real world. This is my first chance to be awake and alone, I do my best work when I am alone and can think of snappy reparte. I am listening to U2's "Beautiful Day" which could be a metaphor for my Miss America experience. The song is all about the beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis and how to look for it when it seems unattainable.
My memories of the final night of competition, I am confident that Kristen is in the Top Ten, but there are no guarantees at Miss America. I begin my bargaining, just ask for the Ten, the Five will take care of itself and then it is anyone's crown I keep telling myself. Hugs, kisses and cheers from the Poulsbo/Kitsap faithful. Wonderful to be surrounded by Brenna and our formers, Jeana, Diosa, Amy and Canon drove from LA to be with us. We have all put our hopes and prayers on Kristen for so many years and tonight was the night. A final look and I move down to the press section. I am right behind the monitors so I have a insight that others don't at this point.
Angela from the Kitsap Sun is behind me, I tell her Kristen is in the Ten, because I just saw them practice her camera shot. Then we get to eight and there are only two left and I know that California is one of them. Contestant number nine is "Miss Washington, Kristen Eddings!" Euphoria enters my body, validation of all of Kristen's hard work over these past five years and immense pride radiates from my soul. California rounds out the Ten, they smile and wave and run off stage. Swimsuit and Evening Gown are still a blur, I have since watched it on television and it is hard to reconcile that I was there watching it live.
Time for the Top Five announce and I am watching the monitors again for the clues, this time I know she did not make the Five. It happens so quickly, this dream is over, all southern states again, my northwestern pride comes up, if you only knew the opportunity you all lost in not choosing Kristen. Then I think, well I guess I get to continue to fly with Kristen, dreaming some more dreams in techno-color. Now I am just killing time until the new Miss America is chosen, anyone but Texas, I won't go into why, my favorite of the three was Miss Georgia, Amanda Kozak. I spent a lovely 15 minutes with her earlier in the week, smart, funny and very much at peace. I had always said they would pick a blond singer, the judges just picked the wrong one.
So Lauren Nelson, Miss Oklahoma is our new Miss America, I went to the press conference and she handled herself very well. She will not bring us any controversy and she will put a great face on our organization. My friend Jim is the official photographer for Oklahoma and he says she is lovely young woman. I saved him a spot for the second year in a row. Lauren was Miss Teen Oklahoma a few years back and performed on the Miss America stage in Atlantic City.
I hear getting into the reception was a bear, people were leaving by the time I got in there so I was able to come up front with our peeps. We screamed so loud for Kristen when she was announced as a Top Ten finalist I nearly fell down from the head rush. We were nearly as loud as Oklahoma who's numbers were double of ours. We all waited our turn to see Kristen. She was released to eat with all of us at the St Louis Cafe at the Paris. What started as a group of 30 jumped to nearly 60. I was getting my meal as she entered, so I ever so slyly slipped my Shrimp Scampi in front of her. She devoured the whole thing and was reborn with energy to visit with people, the Creme Brule perked her up as well. It was a perfect ending to a wonderful week.
The plane ride back was filled with Washingtonians, happy and proud of our Kristen Eddings, feeling as if we were the winners because we get to share in her life for a little bit longer. Knowing that it was Kristen who broke the Top Ten streak after 15 years.
I want to take a few moments to thank people who gave so much of themselves on this journey. The first two are my children Aaron and Holly who have had to see less of their mother and who have been more than understanding because they love Kristen so much. My mother and father Lynda and Bruce Nilsen, who without their love and support both spiritually and financially, this dream would have never gotten off the ground. We have to thank Lynda for booking the wonderful Washington family luncheon at the Paris. They are ready for us anytime we want to visit again.
Mom and Dad took care of the Eddings family and our friends from the Kitsap Peninsula during Miss America week. Your kindness and generosity never ceases to amaze me. I thank you for being such wonderful role models of service above self.
To Kris and Amy who have been my rocks throughout Miss Washington week until now. thank you my friends for keeping me level headed and for lightening my load when it needed to be.And also for putting together the awesome Kristen banner that we hung in the theater, you guys rock. To Marie, I will share a bed with you anytime, your humor and kindness are unmatched. To the Fab Four, Amanda, Lori and Debbie (aka Kibbie) and the fablings, Maegan, Breonna, Britney and Anna thank you for all of the work parties making signs and posters. It would not have been the same in Vegas without you.
Thank you to Carol Starcher for putting together the wonderful t-shirts and buttons, it was s crazy job to keep track of and they looked great. thank you also for putting together the table decorations and the door prizes for the Kristen trivia contest. To the state organization, Charlie, Raleigh, Peggy, Mike etc. thank you for welcoming Kristen into your homes and hearts. She has been well taken care of and thank you for all of your hard work on her behalf.
To all our friends in the Locals and the Poulsbo/Kitsap Team, your support has meant the world to us. Thank you for spending your money to come and join us on this incredible ride and thank you to those who watched at home. It is really true that one person can make a difference. Kristen has made a difference in all of our lives, she has brought us together for a reason. Now it is up to us to continue her message of hope for a better tomorrow.
This is my last entry on Miss America, but I plan on continuing my blog as the Fun Bus travels across the state to the rest of the pageants. Next stop is Grays Harbor/Pacific Coast. Until next time...
Fun Bus One out
Monday, January 29, 2007
Thoughts and Dreams
As I sit here writing this latest blog I am filled with so many emotions. A week at Miss America really takes it's toll on your mind and body, my brain is like swiss cheese, some days I feel as if I don't have the words I need to describe this experience. Dry air, no sleep, little time to eat and of course those cute pair of shoes that pinch your feet are just some of the reasons you are so tired all of the time. But then again, I wouldn't want it any different, this is Miss America, the holy grail of all pageants, we come here to worship the past and pray that our special young woman has what it takes to join the most elite sisterhood in the world, to become Miss America.
I believe that Kristen Eddings has what it takes to be a great Miss America, okay I said it, before I have only whispered it or dreamed of it as I lay in my bed thinking of the possibilities of life. Kristen and I have that in common, we are big thinkers, we see the world in techno-color, we believe that the only limits you have in life are the ones you place on yourself. This journey that we have been on for the past five years comes to an end tonight, no matter what the outcome is I have no regrets and I believe that Kristen feels the same.
It is an incredible privilege to be one of Kristen's friends, she has changed my life in so many ways. I was searching for a life purpose when I met her when she was just 17. I was going through a divorce and my life was at a cross-roads. One of my favorite movies is the "Shawshank Redemption" and my favorite line in the movie is "Get busy living or get busy dying." I got busy living and implementing the changes in my life to become a better mother to my children and citizen to the world.
Kristen's message is hope, that no matter what your situation in life that the world can become a better place through kindness and love. She makes you feel as if your can effect real change in this world, anyone who spends ten minutes with this incredible creature knows that and if you are open to the possibilities of life it is like flying. I often soar above the clouds with her when we talk about our plans for the future. That is why I love the Miss America platform, it allows young women to see how they can change the world and how we as mentors, friends and family can be a part of that.
My mind is swimming with so many images of the past and future right now, just like in a movie montage. I see that thoughtful, theater girl who loves history, with the long corn silk hair and conservative clothes. I see the joy and excitement as she was crowned Miss Poulsbo, running around the stage hugging everyone. I see the humanitarian in her working with orphans in Sierra Leone and the love she has shown my own children Aaron and Holly. They are forever changed by her. I see her crowned as Miss Washington and the dream is halfway there. I see her walking into the interview room and bearing her soul to the judges. She is on the Miss America stage and she glides across it as if she was born to it. I shut my eyes and I can remember each note of her song.
And now do I dare to dream her name announced as Miss America 2007, can I say that out loud yet, I don't know. I told her that her destiny would come from this week, no matter what the outcome was. As she said in her interview opening, she is a visionary, but she is also a doer. She sets her mind to something and she accomplishes it. And so what ever the outcome of this evening's pageant, this journey comes to a close, but new ones are waiting around the corner. I will need a few days to catch up on my sleep before any of those can start.
Though my body be heavy, my spirit soars. Thank you Kristen Eddings for coming into my life and for being my friend. My favorite musical is "Wicked" and the song at the end of the show tells our story best. The line says "Because I knew you, I have been changed for good." I just love a great crescendo...
Fun Bus One out
I believe that Kristen Eddings has what it takes to be a great Miss America, okay I said it, before I have only whispered it or dreamed of it as I lay in my bed thinking of the possibilities of life. Kristen and I have that in common, we are big thinkers, we see the world in techno-color, we believe that the only limits you have in life are the ones you place on yourself. This journey that we have been on for the past five years comes to an end tonight, no matter what the outcome is I have no regrets and I believe that Kristen feels the same.
It is an incredible privilege to be one of Kristen's friends, she has changed my life in so many ways. I was searching for a life purpose when I met her when she was just 17. I was going through a divorce and my life was at a cross-roads. One of my favorite movies is the "Shawshank Redemption" and my favorite line in the movie is "Get busy living or get busy dying." I got busy living and implementing the changes in my life to become a better mother to my children and citizen to the world.
Kristen's message is hope, that no matter what your situation in life that the world can become a better place through kindness and love. She makes you feel as if your can effect real change in this world, anyone who spends ten minutes with this incredible creature knows that and if you are open to the possibilities of life it is like flying. I often soar above the clouds with her when we talk about our plans for the future. That is why I love the Miss America platform, it allows young women to see how they can change the world and how we as mentors, friends and family can be a part of that.
My mind is swimming with so many images of the past and future right now, just like in a movie montage. I see that thoughtful, theater girl who loves history, with the long corn silk hair and conservative clothes. I see the joy and excitement as she was crowned Miss Poulsbo, running around the stage hugging everyone. I see the humanitarian in her working with orphans in Sierra Leone and the love she has shown my own children Aaron and Holly. They are forever changed by her. I see her crowned as Miss Washington and the dream is halfway there. I see her walking into the interview room and bearing her soul to the judges. She is on the Miss America stage and she glides across it as if she was born to it. I shut my eyes and I can remember each note of her song.
And now do I dare to dream her name announced as Miss America 2007, can I say that out loud yet, I don't know. I told her that her destiny would come from this week, no matter what the outcome was. As she said in her interview opening, she is a visionary, but she is also a doer. She sets her mind to something and she accomplishes it. And so what ever the outcome of this evening's pageant, this journey comes to a close, but new ones are waiting around the corner. I will need a few days to catch up on my sleep before any of those can start.
Though my body be heavy, my spirit soars. Thank you Kristen Eddings for coming into my life and for being my friend. My favorite musical is "Wicked" and the song at the end of the show tells our story best. The line says "Because I knew you, I have been changed for good." I just love a great crescendo...
Fun Bus One out
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Nobody puts Baby in the Corner
What a great night Saturday was... I was privileged to be able to sit down with the press to watch Kristen perform her talent. She was absolutely captivating in her orange Tony Bowls dress. She took command of the stage and hit every note, it was a mixture of excitement, extreme pride and insanity rushing through my brain. She was in a groove despite having problems with her throat, the air is so dry here that you can't believe it.
I had her in the top three of talent along with California and Minnesota. Jaqueline (Miss California) is a gifted opera singer and had the strongest talent of the pageant. We were all a bit disappointed that she didn't get the Preliminary Award, but mostly proud of Kristen and the way that she has carried herself during the competition. She has done her very best, but she wants the opportunity to perform her talent one last time.
We had a huge group at visitation, many of Kristen's school friends and family were there to support her. She was overwhelmed with emotion to see everyone, it is such a release to be done with preliminaries. I was wearing my lucky turquoise silk blouse and she was wearing her beautiful turquoise cocktail dress. I guess we think a like even when we are dressing lately. We were able to find some moments together. We hugged and wept in each others arms, I was overcome with the emotion of the whole week and I could barley speak. I think it will take sometime to process the many feelings we have shared this week. I made some stupid joke and then we couldn't stop laughing.
A quick fast forward to to Sunday and our Washington State party at the St Louis Cafe in the Paris. A huge thank you to my wonderful mother Lynda Nilsen for securing the great venue, she is a master on the phone and took care of all of the detail. Carol Starcher decorated the tables and provided the door prizes. It was a lovely afternoon in Paris, we were 90 strong and we had a fun Kristen trivia contest with questions from her family and close friends.
We were all in our Miss Washington t-shirts and buttons, the service was as great as the food. We all went around and talked with each other and signed her Miss Washington sign with silver and gold ink, it looks absolutely beautiful. We will have the rest of the crew sign it on the back tomorrow night.
We have spent the last three nights with Kristen's college friends Janelle and Mary, last night we added Nicole, Emily and Laura. We have such fun with them, talking about Kristen and laughing a lot. First we started with Biff at the frozen libations bar and then it was off to the Bellagio for a bite. Kris used her bouncer skills to keep a wayward frisky man away from the girls. He wanted to join our party but Kris strongly suggested that he move on, and eventually he did. We saw the girls off to the bus safely and finally hit the sack. Every day is so full here that I feel like I have been here for a month instead of six days. I will try and give you some predictions later tonight or tomorrow.
Fun Bus One out
I had her in the top three of talent along with California and Minnesota. Jaqueline (Miss California) is a gifted opera singer and had the strongest talent of the pageant. We were all a bit disappointed that she didn't get the Preliminary Award, but mostly proud of Kristen and the way that she has carried herself during the competition. She has done her very best, but she wants the opportunity to perform her talent one last time.
We had a huge group at visitation, many of Kristen's school friends and family were there to support her. She was overwhelmed with emotion to see everyone, it is such a release to be done with preliminaries. I was wearing my lucky turquoise silk blouse and she was wearing her beautiful turquoise cocktail dress. I guess we think a like even when we are dressing lately. We were able to find some moments together. We hugged and wept in each others arms, I was overcome with the emotion of the whole week and I could barley speak. I think it will take sometime to process the many feelings we have shared this week. I made some stupid joke and then we couldn't stop laughing.
A quick fast forward to to Sunday and our Washington State party at the St Louis Cafe in the Paris. A huge thank you to my wonderful mother Lynda Nilsen for securing the great venue, she is a master on the phone and took care of all of the detail. Carol Starcher decorated the tables and provided the door prizes. It was a lovely afternoon in Paris, we were 90 strong and we had a fun Kristen trivia contest with questions from her family and close friends.
We were all in our Miss Washington t-shirts and buttons, the service was as great as the food. We all went around and talked with each other and signed her Miss Washington sign with silver and gold ink, it looks absolutely beautiful. We will have the rest of the crew sign it on the back tomorrow night.
We have spent the last three nights with Kristen's college friends Janelle and Mary, last night we added Nicole, Emily and Laura. We have such fun with them, talking about Kristen and laughing a lot. First we started with Biff at the frozen libations bar and then it was off to the Bellagio for a bite. Kris used her bouncer skills to keep a wayward frisky man away from the girls. He wanted to join our party but Kris strongly suggested that he move on, and eventually he did. We saw the girls off to the bus safely and finally hit the sack. Every day is so full here that I feel like I have been here for a month instead of six days. I will try and give you some predictions later tonight or tomorrow.
Fun Bus One out
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Second Night of Preliminaries
So sorry for the delay, another late night and early morning of Talent Rehearsal. The rubber met the road and 2:00pm today, the Fun Bus needed her tires rotated and I collapsed on my bed for a quick nap. I am renued and ready to go for the final night of preliminaries. Here's what happened yesterday...
Kristen modeled her Evening Gown and Swimsuit during last night's competition. I was also at the judges press conference at the daily briefing. This was the best judges press conference I have every been to. They we opinionated and entertaining and I am sure they asked great questions of the contestants. I am such a Chris Mathews freak, that it was hard for me to control myself. I never miss Hardball if I can help it, and he didn't disappoint. Nigel's hip cool persona on tv is even more dynamic in person, he likes nod his head to the evening gown music. Debbie Allen was wearing a turban, big sunglasses and gold earrings. She is as direct and opinionated as you have seen on television interviews. Michael Feinstein has always been a favorite of mine, he is old Hollywood and classic Broadway. He is perhaps the kindest judge, always smiling for all of the contestants. Finally, Susan Powell a former Miss America who shared the Preliminary Talent Award with our own Doris. She is a firecracker and such a funny lady, she is looking for someone who understands the responsibilities of the job and has a great sense of humor.
We spend a lot of time in rehearsals, we like to yell Mushi-Mushi when ever Kristen comes on stage. She always let's her groupies know she appreciates the support. My camera is acting up so please go to the Kitsap Sun and Central Kitsap Reporter for their wonderful pictures. Kassie, Angela and Carolyn are such wonderful ladies, we are really having a great time in the press room getting ready for interviews and doing background. I know the Sun will have a full page of color pictures of Kristen in the Sunday paper.
We are almost at full strength in the audience. We are a rowdy bunch and very excited to be at Miss America. Kristen has been consistent throughout the competition, her swimsuit has never looked better, she is wearing a periwinkle blue two piece. Her sparkle shines as she walks the very large stage. Her evening gown is in a word breathtaking, she glides effortlessly as if she is floating. She was definitely part of the top three in both categories.
We finally got to see Kristen at visitation, there ladies take turns going to a CMT private cocktail function. So we got to see her last night and then again tonight. We have a great table in the front which in Miss America land is a miracle, usually we are in the farthest reaches of space. As all of the ladies came through the door we held our Washington and Apple signs. We chanted WASH-ING-TON, WASH-ING-TON and rocked the house. Hugs and Kisses were everywhere, I never seen Kristen look more beautiful, she is simply glowing. She took time to speak to everyone and we all waited patiently for our few moments with our magic girl.
We are watching CMT's Pageant School and I am a little distracted because I am also getting ready for tonight. It is magic night for all of us, the quintensentical moment for Kristen as she takes the stage to sing "For Once in My Life" She totally rocked in rehearsals and the dress she wears gets such a buzz from the crowd. I can hardly wait to get back to the computer to tell you all about it.
Fun Bus One out
Kristen modeled her Evening Gown and Swimsuit during last night's competition. I was also at the judges press conference at the daily briefing. This was the best judges press conference I have every been to. They we opinionated and entertaining and I am sure they asked great questions of the contestants. I am such a Chris Mathews freak, that it was hard for me to control myself. I never miss Hardball if I can help it, and he didn't disappoint. Nigel's hip cool persona on tv is even more dynamic in person, he likes nod his head to the evening gown music. Debbie Allen was wearing a turban, big sunglasses and gold earrings. She is as direct and opinionated as you have seen on television interviews. Michael Feinstein has always been a favorite of mine, he is old Hollywood and classic Broadway. He is perhaps the kindest judge, always smiling for all of the contestants. Finally, Susan Powell a former Miss America who shared the Preliminary Talent Award with our own Doris. She is a firecracker and such a funny lady, she is looking for someone who understands the responsibilities of the job and has a great sense of humor.
We spend a lot of time in rehearsals, we like to yell Mushi-Mushi when ever Kristen comes on stage. She always let's her groupies know she appreciates the support. My camera is acting up so please go to the Kitsap Sun and Central Kitsap Reporter for their wonderful pictures. Kassie, Angela and Carolyn are such wonderful ladies, we are really having a great time in the press room getting ready for interviews and doing background. I know the Sun will have a full page of color pictures of Kristen in the Sunday paper.
We are almost at full strength in the audience. We are a rowdy bunch and very excited to be at Miss America. Kristen has been consistent throughout the competition, her swimsuit has never looked better, she is wearing a periwinkle blue two piece. Her sparkle shines as she walks the very large stage. Her evening gown is in a word breathtaking, she glides effortlessly as if she is floating. She was definitely part of the top three in both categories.
We finally got to see Kristen at visitation, there ladies take turns going to a CMT private cocktail function. So we got to see her last night and then again tonight. We have a great table in the front which in Miss America land is a miracle, usually we are in the farthest reaches of space. As all of the ladies came through the door we held our Washington and Apple signs. We chanted WASH-ING-TON, WASH-ING-TON and rocked the house. Hugs and Kisses were everywhere, I never seen Kristen look more beautiful, she is simply glowing. She took time to speak to everyone and we all waited patiently for our few moments with our magic girl.
We are watching CMT's Pageant School and I am a little distracted because I am also getting ready for tonight. It is magic night for all of us, the quintensentical moment for Kristen as she takes the stage to sing "For Once in My Life" She totally rocked in rehearsals and the dress she wears gets such a buzz from the crowd. I can hardly wait to get back to the computer to tell you all about it.
Fun Bus One out
Friday, January 26, 2007
Night One of Preliminaries
Every day it gets harder and harder to get to sleep at a decent time and get up early enough for rehearsals. That being said, it was a wonderful day yesterday. Another wave of Kristen fans made their way to Vegas yesterday including my parents and children. I met Angela and Carolyn from the Kitsap Sun in the Press Room right before the first press briefing of the day. Art Mc Masters and Sam Haskel were there along with the producer of the CMT show and the head of the Children's Miracle Network. It was informative and upbeat, MAO is making great strides to cement partnerships with major organizations.
As I was entering the room for the press conference I ran into a familiar face, our very own Kristen Eddings heading into the bullpen to prepare for her interview. Art has great timing because as soon as the press conference was over Kristen made the walk down the long hallway to destiny. A smile, wink and then she shadowed boxed to let me know she was ready as she strolled by with the confidence of a woman who really is comfortable in her own skin.
I hung back in the shadow of the press area as she stood face towards the wall as she went over some things in her mind. A small crowd turned into a larger one as CMT cameras and Carolyn documented every event. The door opened, I saw Susan Powell's smiling face and in Kristen walked. The weird thing is that I wasn't nervous, I kept asking myself "Are you nervous yet?" Nope, she's going to do fine, she has done everything in her power to prepare and she's a gameday player. Word was that Chris Mathews was "Hardballing" in there, just what my little Mushi-Mushi loves.
I retreated back to my pillar in the shadows and then she walked out. CMT miked her up and asked her impressions of the interview. Fast-paced and a great conversation she said, she enjoyed sparring with Chris Mathews and thought they got a good ideas of what she was all about. Phase one was a success and now it is time to prepare for the first Preliminary night. She was just doing the On-Stage Question on Thursday.
All of the Conterstants are wearing cocktail dresses complimentary of Sherri Hill, Kristen's is a strapless red silk dress cut right above the knee with a diamond bow and clip on the left hip. She was absolutely smashing. She simply glowed as she walked across the stage and announced herself. "I'm Kristen Eddings from Silverdale, Washington!" wholly smokes she is actually on the Miss America stage just as we had always talked about and planned for. Dreams really can come true. I was able to be down in the front of the the theater with the rest of the press. I was uncahacteristicly calm as she walked out, I had brought tissue in case I lost it, but I didn't, it was just like at Miss Washington.
She answered her question in her lovely turquoise silk cocktail dress that she wore in Orlando, Aaron was very happy because his sign has a picture of the two of them in their Turquoise outfits taken at the teen pageant. The question was not a great one, something like "Why should we pay more money for foreign languages when we have trouble teaching our children English?" She talked about how learning a foreign language helps you understand English better so ultimately helps teachers. Her body language was the key element to the experience, (On-Stage 101 lesson coming) she listened to Kellye Cash ask the question then as she answered she opened her stance and addressed the audience, turned back to Kellye, addressed the audience and finished.
Texas won talent and Oklahoma won Swimsuit, both solid wins, but it could have gone to other deserving ladies. The nice thing about the judges picking Texas for talent was that she sang a contemporary song like Kristen's. It doesn't mean that it is a trend yet, but we will see tonight.
After the show I received a call from Kristen, it was the longest we had talked since the day she left, we had a great conversation while she was waiting at the gate with her airport angel Amy. We went over her interview in depth and how the competition is going for her. Suffice it to say, she is doing great, she was not at all nervous as she took the stage. She is never a good judge of how her interviews go, she told me how it went and I can safety say it went wonderfully, they got a great idea of who she is and what she would do for the organization. Know it is up to them.
Time to run to start a new day...
Fun Bus One out
As I was entering the room for the press conference I ran into a familiar face, our very own Kristen Eddings heading into the bullpen to prepare for her interview. Art has great timing because as soon as the press conference was over Kristen made the walk down the long hallway to destiny. A smile, wink and then she shadowed boxed to let me know she was ready as she strolled by with the confidence of a woman who really is comfortable in her own skin.
I hung back in the shadow of the press area as she stood face towards the wall as she went over some things in her mind. A small crowd turned into a larger one as CMT cameras and Carolyn documented every event. The door opened, I saw Susan Powell's smiling face and in Kristen walked. The weird thing is that I wasn't nervous, I kept asking myself "Are you nervous yet?" Nope, she's going to do fine, she has done everything in her power to prepare and she's a gameday player. Word was that Chris Mathews was "Hardballing" in there, just what my little Mushi-Mushi loves.
I retreated back to my pillar in the shadows and then she walked out. CMT miked her up and asked her impressions of the interview. Fast-paced and a great conversation she said, she enjoyed sparring with Chris Mathews and thought they got a good ideas of what she was all about. Phase one was a success and now it is time to prepare for the first Preliminary night. She was just doing the On-Stage Question on Thursday.
All of the Conterstants are wearing cocktail dresses complimentary of Sherri Hill, Kristen's is a strapless red silk dress cut right above the knee with a diamond bow and clip on the left hip. She was absolutely smashing. She simply glowed as she walked across the stage and announced herself. "I'm Kristen Eddings from Silverdale, Washington!" wholly smokes she is actually on the Miss America stage just as we had always talked about and planned for. Dreams really can come true. I was able to be down in the front of the the theater with the rest of the press. I was uncahacteristicly calm as she walked out, I had brought tissue in case I lost it, but I didn't, it was just like at Miss Washington.
She answered her question in her lovely turquoise silk cocktail dress that she wore in Orlando, Aaron was very happy because his sign has a picture of the two of them in their Turquoise outfits taken at the teen pageant. The question was not a great one, something like "Why should we pay more money for foreign languages when we have trouble teaching our children English?" She talked about how learning a foreign language helps you understand English better so ultimately helps teachers. Her body language was the key element to the experience, (On-Stage 101 lesson coming) she listened to Kellye Cash ask the question then as she answered she opened her stance and addressed the audience, turned back to Kellye, addressed the audience and finished.
Texas won talent and Oklahoma won Swimsuit, both solid wins, but it could have gone to other deserving ladies. The nice thing about the judges picking Texas for talent was that she sang a contemporary song like Kristen's. It doesn't mean that it is a trend yet, but we will see tonight.
After the show I received a call from Kristen, it was the longest we had talked since the day she left, we had a great conversation while she was waiting at the gate with her airport angel Amy. We went over her interview in depth and how the competition is going for her. Suffice it to say, she is doing great, she was not at all nervous as she took the stage. She is never a good judge of how her interviews go, she told me how it went and I can safety say it went wonderfully, they got a great idea of who she is and what she would do for the organization. Know it is up to them.
Time to run to start a new day...
Fun Bus One out
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Late Night/Early Morning for Fun Busers
Excuse the late or rather early the next day post, the whole pacing ourselves went out the window last night because of four little words: The Thunder from Down Under. Marie and I had been waiting to see this show since last year's disappointing Chippendale's Review. Let me say those Ausie boys know how to dance and entertain a crowd. We started the evening at Prime Rib Restaurant in the Excalibur, it was our first official meal of the day. You are on the go a lot at Miss America and food often becomes an after thought. Thank goodness for Marie's snack bar.
Anyway, great food, Amy and I had the salmon and Marie and Kris said the rib was awesome. On to the show we went; who can go wrong with three very strong margaritas, great music and choreography and o yes, really hot guys from Australia shaking their moneymakers. We all sang most of the songs, it was very well put together, just the producer in me coming out.
After the show we hooked up with our favorite flight attendant Pat Scott, we gave her a pair of light up dice necklaces and away we went to our favorite frozen drink bar in the Dessert Passage. The next thing we know it is 2:30am and time to amble back to the Aladdin for a bit of slot machine action. Pat and Kris played Deal or No Deal as Amy and I anxiously cheered them on. At 3:00am I officially have to call it a day, because we aren't even in the room yet. Went to bed at 4:00am and started this blog at 8:20am, I am ready for the day to begin!
Our lovely Kristen should be preparing for her interview right now, she is lucky number seven in the MU group today, number 42 overall. She has a bit of a cold, but not to worry she is on anti-biotic as a precaution so she can recover quicker. It is standard procedure here, her roommate was already on them. The theater is very cold so bring a coat if you are going to watch rehearsals. The rooms are very dry, but Kristen brought a humidifier.
Amy and Kris were at rehearsals most of the day and Marie and I tried to get interviews with the girls to no avail, hopefully today will be better. The stage is dramatically different than last year, everything was draped in white drapes and a milky stage with two space looking tunnels with two grand staircases. This years has columns, four sets of smaller stairs in a semi-circle and the white is accented with black. their is a marble floor effect with a type of a compass star inlaid in the floor. I am sure they will add some color on the black backdrop, it looks like fiber optics could come into play but I haven't seen that yet.
Today dress rehearsal begin, in fact the Alpha group is doing Talent as we speak, I will have to rely on the information of others for ideas for preliminary winners. States are starting to put up signs around the theater. Amy and Kris decide to run to Kinkos to have a banner of Kristen made. It turned out great and they got it up last night before all the space was gone, by this afternoon it probably will. I took a picture but it was too dark to see it well enough, I will take another today and send it to Sheila to post.
Time to pop into the bath, down a diet coke and take my advil cold and sinus pills, it part of my daily Vegas ritual that keeps me a float. We have a lot of people arriving today and tomorrow and expect to be 150 strong by Saturday night. Apparently our state group is the second largest group after Oklahoma. Way to go Washingtonians!
Fun Bus One out
Anyway, great food, Amy and I had the salmon and Marie and Kris said the rib was awesome. On to the show we went; who can go wrong with three very strong margaritas, great music and choreography and o yes, really hot guys from Australia shaking their moneymakers. We all sang most of the songs, it was very well put together, just the producer in me coming out.
After the show we hooked up with our favorite flight attendant Pat Scott, we gave her a pair of light up dice necklaces and away we went to our favorite frozen drink bar in the Dessert Passage. The next thing we know it is 2:30am and time to amble back to the Aladdin for a bit of slot machine action. Pat and Kris played Deal or No Deal as Amy and I anxiously cheered them on. At 3:00am I officially have to call it a day, because we aren't even in the room yet. Went to bed at 4:00am and started this blog at 8:20am, I am ready for the day to begin!
Our lovely Kristen should be preparing for her interview right now, she is lucky number seven in the MU group today, number 42 overall. She has a bit of a cold, but not to worry she is on anti-biotic as a precaution so she can recover quicker. It is standard procedure here, her roommate was already on them. The theater is very cold so bring a coat if you are going to watch rehearsals. The rooms are very dry, but Kristen brought a humidifier.
Amy and Kris were at rehearsals most of the day and Marie and I tried to get interviews with the girls to no avail, hopefully today will be better. The stage is dramatically different than last year, everything was draped in white drapes and a milky stage with two space looking tunnels with two grand staircases. This years has columns, four sets of smaller stairs in a semi-circle and the white is accented with black. their is a marble floor effect with a type of a compass star inlaid in the floor. I am sure they will add some color on the black backdrop, it looks like fiber optics could come into play but I haven't seen that yet.
Today dress rehearsal begin, in fact the Alpha group is doing Talent as we speak, I will have to rely on the information of others for ideas for preliminary winners. States are starting to put up signs around the theater. Amy and Kris decide to run to Kinkos to have a banner of Kristen made. It turned out great and they got it up last night before all the space was gone, by this afternoon it probably will. I took a picture but it was too dark to see it well enough, I will take another today and send it to Sheila to post.
Time to pop into the bath, down a diet coke and take my advil cold and sinus pills, it part of my daily Vegas ritual that keeps me a float. We have a lot of people arriving today and tomorrow and expect to be 150 strong by Saturday night. Apparently our state group is the second largest group after Oklahoma. Way to go Washingtonians!
Fun Bus One out
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
We Have Arrived in Sin City
We have arrived safe and sound in Las Vegas. Marie and I loaded up all of the signs and luggage and headed off to the airport to meet Amy and Kris who pulled their own all-nighters for various reason. Marie and I we greeted by a special traveler companion, the one and only Darrin Emerick. Being the world travelers that they are, I was treated to a visit to the United Airlines Red Carpet Club as their guest. Marie helped herself to some of the complementary food, let's just say we won't go hungry in Vegas this week.
Phil and Sandy Hall were also on the flight, they sat behind Marie and I. It was a great quick flight, luggage was not a problem this year and except for a cranky shuttle driver, we made it to the Aladdin without incident. The lobby is now on the ground floor and it is very groovy modern. The massive lit bubble wall changes colors every couple of minutes. They have the Miss America room keys again and some people have the coveted Miss America pins. Badges and everything else is in the Conference Center.
The cute princess store has moved to the right of the Aladdin and the store is twice the size. They have a lot of good merchandise at reasonable prices. Tomorrow Marie, Lois and I will start interviewing Contestants and watching rehearsals. If there are any Contestants you would like to learn about or questions you would like us to ask, let us know. No Kristen sitings as of yet, we have our sign on the door, to mark our love for Special K.
Off to bed, it is only midnight, I have to pace myself for the week to come.
Fun Bus One out
Phil and Sandy Hall were also on the flight, they sat behind Marie and I. It was a great quick flight, luggage was not a problem this year and except for a cranky shuttle driver, we made it to the Aladdin without incident. The lobby is now on the ground floor and it is very groovy modern. The massive lit bubble wall changes colors every couple of minutes. They have the Miss America room keys again and some people have the coveted Miss America pins. Badges and everything else is in the Conference Center.
The cute princess store has moved to the right of the Aladdin and the store is twice the size. They have a lot of good merchandise at reasonable prices. Tomorrow Marie, Lois and I will start interviewing Contestants and watching rehearsals. If there are any Contestants you would like to learn about or questions you would like us to ask, let us know. No Kristen sitings as of yet, we have our sign on the door, to mark our love for Special K.
Off to bed, it is only midnight, I have to pace myself for the week to come.
Fun Bus One out
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Test Drive for Fun Bus Chatter
Hello All,
This is our test drive for the official Fun Bus Chatter. I am home packing for Miss America, all of the 94 signs, buttons, and blinking red dice necklaces are already packed into the Fun Bus ready for a night at Marie Manchester's before Kris, Amy, Marie and I jet off to Vegas on Tuesday morning. A special thank you to our current Miss Kitsap, Sheila Spiker for putting our new website up and running. She is working on it while completing her studies at the University of Washington. Look for more incredible work from her in the future.
Until next time,
Fun Bus One out
This is our test drive for the official Fun Bus Chatter. I am home packing for Miss America, all of the 94 signs, buttons, and blinking red dice necklaces are already packed into the Fun Bus ready for a night at Marie Manchester's before Kris, Amy, Marie and I jet off to Vegas on Tuesday morning. A special thank you to our current Miss Kitsap, Sheila Spiker for putting our new website up and running. She is working on it while completing her studies at the University of Washington. Look for more incredible work from her in the future.
Until next time,
Fun Bus One out
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