Upon arrival at the Philadelphia Airport, I met up with the fabulous Ginny Meerman, Mrs. Maryland, found my Dunkin Donuts coffee (the elixir of happiness) and settled in for the long flight to Las Vegas. At first, I felt completely intimidated by this gorgeous, pageant perfect woman who travels in 4 inch heels as I stood beside her in my no makeup, comfy clothes and sneakers. But after about 3 minutes of chatting, I discovered Ginny and I had a great deal in common, which began the week with a great new friendship.
After an uneventful flight, we found our driver and headed to the Orleans to check in.
Let's just say it isn't the Plaza Athenee...
Both Ginny and I had shipped the majority of our luggage to Vegas (I had 2 boxes totaling 55lbs of sparkle) and we had to resort to bribery and eyelash batting to locate them and have them brought up to our room. Ginny and I could fight crime with our awesome powers! We spent our evening unpacking and organizing for the week ahead. I found the fitness center and had a good workout.
I learned that the swimsuit competition specified sarong dimensions of 2 yards by 3 yards was by no means mandatory, so I spent the rest of my night cutting my sarong and sewing up the edges so that my sarong would no longer resemble a burka. After a few hours of sweatshop labor, I was ready for a good night's rest.
Sunday, July 19th
After another visit to the fitness center it was time to get ready for pageant Registration. I had thought registration would be an event, but it was only a table set up in the hotel lobby where you handed in some papers. I felt a bit overdressed until I saw that everyone else had done the same. I met everyone and took some photos and perused our program book, which turned out really well. 
We finished the evening with a dinner in the hotel buffet. Note to self: don't wear a cocktail dress to the hotel buffet (even if everyone else is too).
Monday, July 20th
Pageant Orientation began our day with some announcements, introductions, and the distribution of our State gifts. That part reminded me of trick-or-treating; I consumed any and all candy received immediately, as is my custom. We rehearsed for a few hours with amazing choreographer Natalie Carson, the self-appointed "Mrs. Australia".
Monday evening was our night out at Caesars. We boarded the bus and I sat with Mrs. Alaska, who was super-sweet. See our self-portrait below.
Instead of shopping, (everyone knows I abhor any shopping that doesn't involve groceries) a group of us had dinner and some good and meaningful conversation. I enjoyed the time to get to know Mrs. Virginia, Mrs. Indiana, Mrs. North Carolina, Mrs. Utah, and Mrs. Delaware (Marci and I go waaaaay back 
to our MAO days).
to our MAO days). My husband, Jonathan, arrived when we were out so I was thrilled to see him when we got back to the hotel.
Tuesday, July 21st
Swimsuit Shoot. Why, oh why? Gloria Steinem is rolling in her grave. What is a grown woman supposed to do with photos of herself in a bikini? Holiday cards? Maybe I'll show them to my kids in 20 years-- look, that's when mommy was skinny!
More rehearsal in the theater (which is really nice). We have learned the opening number and closing number.
Interviews! We have just 3 minutes with the panel of judges, and I hope I was able to share with them some interesting and unique points. I suspect no one else was asked about bel canto technique!
Sushi with Jonathan and then off to sleep.
Wednesday, July 22nd
Rehearsal, rehearsal, rehearsal!
oh, and more rehearsal.
The beautiful and talented Cari Baker did my hair and makeup and then it was showtime!
I did my very best in Swimsuit and Evening Gown and enjoyed every minute on the big stage. I was glad to see Siouxzan Moore, the wonderful director for PA, DE, MD, and VA. She has been so supportive and encouraging and it was great that she could be in Vegas!
My husband was a little overwhelmed by all of glitz-- he says he feels like he visited the planet Sparkleonia. He also does a really good impersonation of me attempting to dance in the opening number. It's like I'm on Totally Inhibited Dance Party.
Thursday, July 23rd
Our final day of pageant fun. I can say that I am so glad to have met so many amazing women including but not limited to:
Mrs. New York-- Every day she had another exquisite hair accessory, I am ready to order all of her designs
Mrs. Oklahoma-- A fantastic woman who owns more shoes than I knew could be possible.
Mrs. Maine-- renewed her wedding vows in the Elvis Chapel!
Mrs. Vermont-- loves Wegmans as much as I do
Mrs. Virginia-- the sweetest, kindest heart
I could go on and on and on!
Cari Baker did my hair and makeup again (my inner drag queen was very pleased with the results!) and before I knew it, it wa
s time for the final show.
s time for the final show.Though my name was not one of those called for the Top 12, I didn't feel even a twinge of sadness or regret. I knew I gave my best performance and I was really happy for those who were moving one step closer to the crown, especially Rachel, Mrs. Virginia. The eventual winner was Mrs. South Carolina, who is simply lovely. I wish her all the best as she enjoys her reign! Congratulations to every contestant; each of you is beautiful both outside and in and it was an honor to share the stage with you!
