Elyse's Endeavors

March Madness

2008-06-16T02:16:00.000-07:00

"You have to go on and be crazy. Craziness is like heaven."
-- Jimi Hendrix

This blog was almost entitled, “Pageant Pandemonium,” to reflect the whirlwind of local pageants during the month of March. However, as a devoted college basketball fan, and a friend of Miss Kansas and her beloved Jayhawks, I simply couldn’t resist. The mayhem begins when I arrive in my hometown, Wapato, expecting to do a thirty-minute welcome for the WASA Small Schools Conference.

I was filled with genuine surprise and elation upon learning that I’d be giving two forty-five minute motivational speeches to the entire student populations at Wapato Middle School and Wapato High School! It was a very special experience for me to address students at my alma matter and to take their questions about my Year of Service. Among the ‘Welcome Home’ signs, beautiful roses, autograph requests, and flashing camera-phones, the most surprising event was the video-recorded marriage proposal (complete with cherry flavored Ring Pop).

Later that week I traveled the airwaves with Thane & Tom’s morning show as well as Kendall Weaver’s– both shows are broadcast out of Yakima. I can’t recall the topic of conversation but I’m guessing – and this is just a hunch – that it had something to do with going to Miss America. :D My seventeen year-old sister called me the other day and said, “I heard you on the radio again today.” “Really?” I asked, “What was I saying?” “I don’t know, I really wasn’t paying attention.” Ah, the intricacies of sisterly love…

I attended the Lakewood Rotary Meeting as a guest speaker and was entirely enthralled with the view of American Lake. It never ceases to amaze me just how lively Rotary meetings always prove to be. In fact, I believe that in some of the correspondence with the Rotarian who coordinated my visit, the meeting schedule read something like: Starts at noon… conduct club business and have some fun till One.. at which time we introduce our Speaker.

The Miss Lewis County Pageant had everything a local pageant should have – a wise-cracking duo of emcees, sassy production numbers, and a weepy eyed new titleholder… Easily my favorite way to spend a Saturday evening.

Early the next morning, the Pageant family trekked across the Cascades to the first annual Miss Yakima County and Miss Yakima County’s Outstanding Teen Pageant. While I –quite appropriately, I should think – show no favoritism whatsoever for any local program, I can’t help but beam with pride at the thought of my own hometown communities engaging in their first MAO local. Ok, truth be told, I was also beaming in part because the whole clan indulged me and headed to my favorite burger joint ever, Miners. Four letters: YUUM!

Later in the week I visited a group of students involved in an afternoon group counseling session to discuss the importance of diversity and making positive decisions. While I like to think the message was well-received, I’m thinking their interests peaked at learning how I kept the crown on my head. Inquiring minds want to know, right? Later that afternoon I visited the lunch meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Puyallup. After overcoming several slight technical difficulties – I like singing a capella, anyways – I gave a brief message about my experience at Miss America. For no reason in particular, that appearance was a blast and I must extend a humble thank you to Kerry Yanasak for graciously inviting and introducing me to Kiwanis.

That weekend commenced the Miss Whatcom County Pageant and, again, it was all the fun and excitement I’ve come to expect from a show. I was “shush-ed” backstage for giggling too loudly with Genay, I had a near wardrobe malfunction that Patti Belik helped me avoid with a skill she had to have learned on MacGyver, and I used only my fingers to delicately strip off the frosting off my cake after the show. Not to mention dinner at Red Robin with my family and the ever fabulous Uncle/Niece duo, Joey & Tina. Woo!

On a chilly Monday afternoon, I met a woman whom I would come to regard as Okaasan, Elizabeth Asahi Sato. We were instant friends and spent several hours that afternoon laughing and visiting about everything under the sun. In between the jokes and the anecdotes, we “interviewed” for an article she was putting together for a publication called, “Indian Life.” It was such an honor to be considered as newsworthy, but even more exciting to make such a dear friend in the process.

One production meeting and a day spa appointment later, I was off to Grandview, WA to spend the day with the University of Washington’s GEAR UP Career Fair escorted by tactful Patti Belik. I spoke with several hundred students about their career options after high school and college. Many of you in the Washington pageant family are aware that I was likened to a television pseudo-celebrity with the initials “T. T.” It was at this event. Kids still say the darndest things. And by “kids,” I mean “preteens.” And by “darndest,” I mean… nevermind. ;)

Next week I found myself giving two character trait assemblies at Firgrove Elementary. My college cheer coach, Kristen Barton, invited me and allowed me to spend some time with her class. Later that day I had a fitting with Item House, a cherished sponsor, for a beautiful new custom coat and then was disgusted to find myself driving home… in the snow! The Pacific Northwest can be downright mind-boggling.

One of the most precious experiences I’ve had as Miss Washington was a trip to Leavenworth to visit Icicle River Middle School. Two young girls contacted me by email more than a month prior to my visit to say that they were given a school project: as a pair, they were to prepare a presentation about someone they considered a “hero” who was from the state of Washington. I think the terms, “astounded” and, “choked up” best describe my reaction to the news that I was the person they selected. Naturally, I can’t imagine anything I’ve done to be worthy of the “hero” label. Nonetheless, these two sixth-graders were extraordinarily professional and their presentation to a fourth grade class was flawless. I’ll never forget how humbled I was to be in attendance that day.

The Miss Poulso/Miss Kitsap Pageant was an altogether good time as well. And would we expect anything less? Of course not! Music from Dreamgirls, my sister Lauren stepping in as traveling companion backstage, and – the piece de resistance – Champagne Cake at the afterparty! No complaints from this fun-loving M-Dub. (A college roommate of mine liked to refer to me as “M-Dub” in the same way we Husky fans call the University of Washington: “U-Dub.” Yes, this is the kind of ridiculous thing my friends and I have talked about. Yes, I know its trivial and goofy. It’s me we’re talking about – what would you expect?)

I had a lively meeting with several staffers from the YWCA Pierce County the following week and then found myself as the keynote speaker at the Washington Indian Education Association Annual Convention. I had an opportunity to share with many Native educators from around the state my personal story about growing up on a reservation and following the dreams and goals that led me to the Miss America stage.
As a surprise, I was lucky to have my favorite person in the whole world sitting in the front row – my Grandma! There’s no better end to a chaotic month than a great big hug from my very own shero.

Here’s lookin’ at you,

elyse*

Be Kind, Rewind

2008-06-02T02:41:00.000-07:00

"History is Herstory, too."
-- Author Unknown

Please know that I did not intentionally abandon my blog-writing duties… but I’ll throw myself at the mercy of this court and plead - - well, it’s actually very unbecoming of a lady to plead, so let’s just venture forth with another late-night installment, shall we?

My last entry might as well have been a century ago. And after perusing it for content control, I realize I basically talked about one thing. That simply will not do. So, grab your favorite turtleneck and some fuzzy mittens because we’re headed back to February!

I rang in the new month (of February, that is) literally on a plane. On my way home from Miss America, I fell asleep before the cabin door was closed and I’m fairly certain I didn’t wake up until the following night. Miraculously – I awoke in my own bed. Thank goodness for parents and directors! Following a brief stint with the worst case of the flu to ever rear its ugly face in the history of the universe, I was an honored guest at the Miss Grays Harbor Pageant.

My accommodations were ridiculously charming at a local Bed & Breakfast. I was given the “Blue” room… a tribute to my favorite color, isn’t that thoughtful?!

Radio interviews commenced later that week, as did several coffee shop meetings to handle good ol’ administrative tasks, and also a National Anthem performance to kick off a college basketball game. Go Lutes!

While my allegiance is entirely with the Dawgs of UW, I must admit that one of the most memorable and rewarding events of the month took place at Washington State University’s Vancouver Campus. I was asked to serve as Mistress of Ceremonies at WSU’s Presidential Primary Straw Poll where I had the privilege of sharing a stage with Secretary of State Sam Reed. The event was well attended and the open forum was lively – a success, all around, if I do say so myself!

And what a great opportunity this is to remind all you readers to go out there and

1) Register to vote,

2) Familiarize yourself with our political system and the presidential election’s candidates and

3) VOTE!

I opened the Mock Primary with this quote from Abraham Lincoln, “The ballot is stronger than the bullet.” Humor me and keep that in mind this election season.

The Miss Poulsbo Tea was positively delightful! Among their many proud family members, the guest list included the Miss Kitsap and Miss Poulsbo contestants, former titleholders, devoted volunteers, the (then) current Miss Poulsbo, Alex Duchemin & Miss Kitsap, Megan Hornbuckle, and the starry-eyed Princesses! The volunteers were gracious, the girls were lively, the treats were delicious, and the afternoon was nothing shy of fantabulous.

To honor the 29th Annual National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week, I visited Veterans Hospitals in Tacoma and Seattle. At one location, I distributed hand-made cards and roses. It was an incredibly moving experience to visit with our Nation’s un-sung heroes. One such visit was on the 14th where I was greeted with flowers, cards, and chocolates – I’d managed to acquire several dozen “Valentines.” Ha! Those of you who are already familiar with my old-maid destiny are surely bubbling over with joy at the thought of this sight.

In one whirlwind weekend, I flew to Spokane only to head to Moses Lake and then return to Spokane less than 36 hours later. Boy, were my wings tired! Haha! ..sorry, couldn’t help myself. I served as emcee of the Miss Moses Lake Pageant and enjoyed every single second. It didn’t hurt that my companion that day was the lovely, and ever –congenial, Sara Talbot, Miss Moses Lake 2007.
Have you ever seen fog freeze?

No seriously, have you? Well I hadn’t until Patti Belik and I were driving from the Miss Moses Lake Pageant to Spokane. The crazy thing is that it looks like glitter – a real, live snow globe. So being the sometimes-witty, wisecracking Miss Washington that I am, I commenced to joke to Patti that she shouldn’t worry about the sparkle – it just happens everywhere I go. Big Mistake. I’ll never live that one down. It pretty much goes up there on the list with “5-pound bag of gummi bears,” and “them apples.” :D The Miss Spokane Pageant went splendidly and the meal I shared with my pageant family was equally enjoyable.

Also in store for me during leap-year-month was an event hosted by American Legend at which I met supermodel Cindy Crawford and a visit to the Chief Seattle Club, a homeless shelter for American Indians. I was interviewed for a segment on Northwest Indian News about my Year of Service as the first American Indian to take on the job of Miss Washington, as well.

On a gorgeous Saturday afternoon (a rarity for these parts), I traveled to the Miss Mason County Pageant where the show went off without a hitch and I had entirely too much fun backstage. Said “fun” involves a pink cowboy hat, a quick Diet Coke run, and thumb-cuffs. What will I do when I can no longer engage in behind the scenes shenanigans?!

Several meetings and one Miss America Homecoming later, I found myself at the Miss Pierce County Pageant in Tacoma.

Whew!

Good thing we had that extra day in there this year. Otherwise, I’m not sure I could have managed to pack in all of my travels, events, appearances, and adventures!

Don’t let the bed bugs bite,

elyse*

Homecoming 2008 -- Miss America Style

2008-04-05T00:52:00.000-07:00

"How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!"
-- Maya Angelou

What a party! The excitement was slightly wasted on the likes of me – simply because I spent as much time in transit as I did enjoying the festivities.

Much to my surprise, I glanced up from my sad excuse for a salad while waiting to board my connecting flight out of the twin cities and saw none other than GI Jill - Miss Utah! We hopped aboard and proceeded to trek towards Michigan.

I arrived in frigid Muskegon, MI around 11PM. Jill and I were greeted by Hannah Keifer - Miss Virginia and escorted to a swanky stretch-limo of the Ford Expedition variety where we waited for roughly 1½ hours for Molly Hazlett - Miss Texas to arrive. Our driver was exceptionally professional and gracious and earned some major bonus points when he ordered pizzas and had them delivered to the car while we waited. I swear, I’m like a man in that respect… fastest way to my heart being through my stomach and all.

I finally tucked myself into bed a little after 2AM, sharing a room with my dear friend Diana Reed – Miss Iowa.

We were all business the next day. Breakfast at nine and we were promptly across the street for rehearsal. I was so impressed with how put-together the show was. Something like 142 performers, visiting titleholders, and stage/tech pro’s were on-hand to make this extravaganza happen! When we weren’t expected to be on-stage, we visitors found ways to entertain ourselves…

I had the pleasure of proudly introducing the new Miss Michigan – Gina Valo to my Miss America sister contestants at rehearsal. “Proudly” isn’t at all an understatement. When asked, “Who’s that girl over there in the brown?” I promptly responded, “Oh, you don’t know?! That’s the new Miss Michigan. I thought everybody knew that…” :D Oh, you know I said it with more than a hint of playful sarcasm. Gina and I bonded in 2006 when we both finished in the top five at the National Sweetheart Pageant.

Roughly eight hours later, we were sent back to our hotel rooms to dress for dinner and head to House of Chan, a long-time Miss Michigan sponsor. Not only did we get to visit with many of Kirsten’s closest friends and family members, we had an impromptu birthday celebration for Jill.

We left the restaurant and went straight back to the theatre. It’s Show Time! “Dreams Come True” showcased Kirsten Haglund – Miss America, performances with members of the Haglund family, the Miss Michigan Top Ten, Several talented vocal and dance groups, and ten Miss America contestants. For this performance, I opted to perform my Miss Seattle talent song, “Soar,” and was dazzled by the talents of ALL performers to grace the stage.

The beautiful theatre was full of many loyal fans, volunteers, and spectators. They made us feel extraordinarily welcome and appreciated! It still tickles my fancy to casually say, “Well, a few weeks ago when I was at Miss America’s Homecoming…..” So easily entertained, I suppose. A brief after-party was held in a suite following the show and then it was off to bed! Wait, after we visiting titleholders dined in the lap of luxury - - Pizza Hut delivered. Yes, pizza again. Don’t judge – not like I’ve got to prepare to walk around on-stage in a swimsuit again!

The last leg of the trip was a little tiring. And when I say “a little tiring,” I mean “thoroughly exhausting.” I was supposed to leave the hotel around 5:45 in the morning, apparently the pilots were staying at the same establishment and we’d be carpooling to the airport. This was my morning: The 5AM wakeup call I ordered never arrived, I missed the shuttle with the pilots, I managed to survive the treacherous cab-ride to the airport only by the grace of God, and arrived at the airport seven minutes before the plane was scheduled to leave. This is the second time in my life my hands have been raised in thanks toward the heavens due to “computer difficulties” incurred by my airline. A quick plane change in Minneapolis had me back in Seattle with just enough time to cruise through the Starbucks drive-thru, take a shower, and head to the Miss Pierce County pageant.

All in a day’s work...

Tirelessly your titleholder,

elyse*

Lights... Camera... Action

2008-03-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die."
-- Edward Kennedy

It’s almost one in the afternoon and my plane, Flight 270 to Minneapolis bound for Miss America's Homecoming, is about to take off. I’m doing what I always do while settling into this dentist’s- chair-in-ugly-upholstery they call a seat: wondering what on earth I’m going to do to entertain myself for the next few hours. Instinctively, I reach for the trusty ol’ laptop. I willingly forego a golden opportunity to play solitaire so that I might plug away at what (hopefully) will turn out to be a worthwhile piece of ‘blog.’

I’ll have you know, this is the fifth or sixth time I’ve sat at my thinking machine, typing away with every intention of actually posting the words that spewed out. Be it fortunate or unfortunate for you, those never made it to print. We’ll call them drafts for now. :D

Where to begin??? I suppose I could talk about the heinous line through Sea-Tac security… the surprisingly pleasant weather as of recent… or, I don’t know… I suppose: my MISS AMERICA experience! Let me just get this out there: woohooo!!

*briskly pats each cheek* I’ll say what I said when UW quarterback, Jake Locker, showed up as somewhat of a going away “gift” at my Miss America Send-Off: Keep it together, Miss Washington.

Thinking of Patti Belik, Peggy Miller, and all their collective craftiness at said send-off still slaps a big goofy smile across my face. But more on that later! Back to the issue at hand… Miss America Live!

So, let’s just put this out there and get it over with… because I know it’s coming sooner rather than later.

How do you like them apples?!

And yes, I intentionally double punctuate that little quip because it is entirely too hilarious for just one statement/question-ending symbol. Don’t ask me where it came from – it just kinda hit me… sort of like the urgent sensation of an impending sneeze. (Sorry, that was weird - I know. But I’m an allergy sufferer and thoughts of antihistamines and Kleenex tissues are permeating my brain lately.) So that was my intro. And thank you – all of you – who felt it necessary to tell me just how much you like “them apples.” It was altogether confusing, awkward, and flattering. *giggles out loud* Oh man. This blog is going nowhere fast. I can fix that…

The Miss America Pageant. I don’t know how I could ever sum up all the excitement, anticipation, joy, confusion, nervousness, lack of sleep, and hard work that went into those ten days of my life. Let’s start here: I had two goals when I walked onto that Vegas-bound plane.

Goal One – have the time of my life. (Always an overachiever.) I wanted to soak up every single second, I aimed to fully embrace and appreciate every little exciting and exhausting moment. I know as well as any other young woman who competes within the MAO that very few of us will ever have the opportunity to compete on the national stage. That is simply a matter of fact and I wasn’t about to take that for granted. It is an honor and a privilege to compete for the Miss America title. I think it’s only fitting that this fun-loving Miss Washington intended to have a good time while there.

Goal Two – give it my all. I wasn’t about to spend month after month (after month and so on) preparing for this whole extravaganza only to chicken out or fall victim to doubt or worry. Give 110%. I know that’s really not possible, but it just seems to illustrate my point better than a measly 100. :D

And if there were to be a subheading to this second goal of mine, it would be: whatever happens, make Washington proud. While I see no method through which to quantify whether or not this has happened, I know I did my best. And I’m so glad you were all there, either in the flesh or in spirit, along for the ride!

Second Runner-Up to Miss America.

Holy Toledo.

My fingers are doing the keyboard-dance. You know. Where your digits just hover over the keys and begin to wiggle around because you don’t exactly know what to write. All I can think to say that will adequately express my emotion is something I’ve said repeatedly since January 27th: I have so much to be thankful for.

I’ll save all the schmaltzy expressions of gratitude for my farewell, but I can’t miss this opportunity to dish out some well-deserved and hard-earned Thank Yous. My Dads – for their endless support, love, devotion, patience, and faith in me. And not just for the obvious stuff, don’t think I’ve forgotten how you drove me to EVERY local pageant last “season.” I haven’t begun to sing your praises – and good thing, I’ll likely lose my voice in such an anthem.

My director, Peggy Miller – None of the long hours or words of encouragement you invested in me were wasted. Wardrobe… t-shirts advertising my goofy face… Hanging Banners... kindness… You impress me. We are quite the team!

My best friend, Sarah - for giving me faith in me, for always coming to my rescue, and for never thinking, "I told you so." *wink*

My co-director, Patti. You put up with me and all of my antics. Among other things, you must be commended for this.

The dozens of loved ones who traveled to Las Vegas to watch me compete. I know it was no easy feat – financially, emotionally, or with regard to practicality. It means the world to me that you came and lived the experience with me!

My sisters, parents, family and, especially, my Grandma – I’ve always relied on your support and can’t imagine traveling this journey without you.

My sister contestants, both at Miss Washington & at Miss America – I treasure you and all you’ve taught me about this program and myself.

I’m so blessed to have lived a life that has already been touched by so many inspirational people!
.

Go in peace and walk with beauty,

elyse*

Picture Perfect

2008-03-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

"A photograph is memory in the raw."
-- Carrie Latet

Miss America Reality Check
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2030523&l=80a60&id=44902634

All Over the Place! This albums a good one.. includes my sendoff "gift," UW QB Jake Locker
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2030524&l=1bb3e&id=44902634

Random Local Pageant Fun AND Miss America's Homecoming!!
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2030525&l=3628a&id=44902634

Stay classy,

elyse*

"Dreams Come True"

2008-02-29T11:43:00.000-08:00

"Practice is everything. This is often misquoted as Practice makes perfect."
-- Periander

Just sitting at rehearsal for Miss America's Homecoming entitled, "Dreams Come True." While watching the ridiculously incredible and mesmerizing baton-twirling stylings of Miss Iowa, Diana Reed, I thought I'd just say Hello! And share a little silliness while at it...

Miss Indiana says Hi! (she's sitting here laptop-ing as well) The show's tonight at 7!

Break a leg,

elyse*

This is only a test...

2008-02-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

"I'm not a very good writer, but I'm an excellent rewriter. "
-- James Michener

New Year... New Blog... New Kids on the Block... ok wait - that one just didn't fit. *wink*

Just wanted to take a moment to see how this new blogging business worked. Lets hope you're not reading this in Japanese characters... and if you are - brava!

Sayonara,

elyse*

Should auld acquaintance be forgot -- and days o' auld lang syne

2008-01-01T00:30:00.000-08:00

"For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice.”
-- T. S. Eliot

Happy New Year Pageant Family far and wide!

So, let's be honest here. I feel that we've grown close enough that I can divulge my fair share of personal secrets. Last night I had a bit of an anxious panic fit. The realization (and the accompanying excitement and sparkle of it all) hit me. Hard. Like a swift kick in the pants: Miss America is THIS MONTH! Yippee!! As silly as it sounds, I'm going to treasure that Mac Truck moment where reality took a good hard swing at me. It reminds me how lucky... blessed.. fortunate... and above all - grateful I am to have this momentous opportunity. I believe we've nearly completed our fantastic voyage along the Nevada Trail... the horizon is in sight, and boy does that twinkling skyline look Glorious!

Again, another moment of honesty. I'm going to have to go back and check my trust calendar to recall what's been going on. Winter has entirely been a blur. And a snow-less blur at that! *grumble* What a rotten trick that's been... How ironic for someone who finds the cold to be loathsome and detestable to be angry there's a marked absence of the delicate wintery flakes. 'Scuse me while I click over to my calendar...

Ok wait - Time out. I've gotta run... literally, but I'll be back to complete this installation. Cross my heart and hope to... well, you know how that goes...

Be back this afternoon,

elyse*

It's Beginning to Look alot like Christmas

2007-12-15T00:06:00.000-08:00

"I love Christmastime. It's just too bad it happens during the winter."
-- Peggy Miller

This entry will be just a lil' note - to all those kind souls out there who find my scribbles worth a few moments of their time.

I was just thinking about how warm and cozy things are this time of year. Sure, we're all running around like chickens with our heads cut off rushing to the mall, wrapping gifts, trimming trees, baking goodies, making lists, checking said lists twice, attending holiday shindigs, stressing about that "perfect gift," and (usually) lastly, trying to pencil in some time with loved ones. I'm hoping to make this particular season different. Rather than sweating the details, I'm anxious to truly bask in all that really makes Christmastime special... the little things, the special people, the fun times, the treasured memories.

So, from my little corner of the world to yours: Happy Holidays. And thank you for your continued support. Your thoughts & prayers are tremendously appreciated and its just too bad that I can't squeeze a big hug into this blog entry... so we'll just pretend. *big hug*

Warm winter wishes,

elyse*

Over the River and Through the Woods... Twice Now

2007-12-07T01:14:00.000-08:00

"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome."
-- Anne Bradstreet

I feel a big fat juicy blog entry coming on... Wait - time out... Alright, I'm back. I had to brew myself a cup of tea, crank the Christmas tunes, and plug in the tree. Nothing says "Christmas Cheer" like a six-foot-tall Douglas Fir of solid PVC, wire, and two-toned "never shed" needles. Which reminds me, my poor tree is in desperate need of a tree skirt - its scrawny feet are shamelessly sticking out and are lookin' pretty pitiful.

Well, plenty to report, so lets get down to business. When I last bid you adieu, I was halfway through an excellent weekend in Wenatchee. My final night at the Festival of Trees was more fun than a barrel of (Christmas) monkeys! Patti Belik and I attended the Gala Auction to benefit the Performing Arts Center and it was a hit. I was asked to perform White Christmas to kick off the dinner and then had the opportunity to do what I love best: rubbing elbows and schmoozing with the best of 'em! I helped egg on - er, encourage - patrons to graciously up their bids. Last year's auction brought in a little under $40,000 and this year, preliminary calculations estimate the grand total at a whopping $94,000! I'm so glad I was able to meet and greet all of the friendly folks from Wenatchee, especially our gracious host, Penny Carpenter and event administrator, Jennifer Bushong. Thanks for making us feel right at home!

After braving the snowy mountain passes back home (actually, Patti did most of the braving... napping was my pasttime of choice on this trip), I made a quick, albeit - important stop, at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Gingerbread Village opening at the Seattle Sheraton. Costumed little ones performed song and dance from around the world and I was the honorary "leader" of the group convened to select the winning confection. I encourage everyone who passes through downtown Seattle to check out these culinary masterpieces... these aren't your average gingerbread houses! I believe the winner was actually a delicate and ornate sugar-based globe adorned with people, monuments, and animals. Quite the Christmas site and certainly a worthy cause. Check out the photo albums below for a visual.

Peggy Miller and I can now check one daunting task off the to-do list: my Miss America wardrobe is officially complete! Whew! One trip to Luda's at FitRite, one evening at Belle Square, and two reduced-fat egg nog lattes later, we made it happen. This leads me up to Thanksgiving break. I hope everyone out there enjoyed plenty of time with family and friends, comfortabely lounged about, and ate entirely too much turkey and stuffing like I did. I was so blessed to have the time to visit and relax with all my favorite family members and hope that this whole holiday season will be filled with such treasured memories.

After a quick business meeting with my fitness sponsor, Callaway Fitness, I packed up and headed North. Then East. My ever-reliable Dad chauffered me out of Seattle to meet up with Patti Belik for yet another trip over the river and through the woods. This time, Destination: Leavenworth, Mission: Good Morning, America. It was a late night of traveling... and, of course, napping for me... but we arrived at the lavish and lovely home of John & Peggy Carpenter around 9 PM. After relishing in a tasty homemade dinner, we retired to bed only to rise about three hours later. Filming in Leavenworth started at 3 AM. Yikes! If you know me, you know I'm anything BUT a morning person. But this problem was easily solved by psyching myself out. You see, I'm convinced that 3 AM is clearly not early morning, but late night. I mingled with so many of the excited town members that morning. Snow covered the entire landscape, miles and miles of Christmas lights twinkled, and Christmas Cheer was in heavy supply. I know this sounds corny, but it really was pretty magical. In addition to meeting Father Christmas and St. Nicholas (who gleefully introduced himself as Bill), I met the Wise Men, half a dozen Santas, Good Morning, America host Sam Champion, and was greeted with a hearty and spontaneous, "We love you, Miss Washington!" from a couple dozen sweethearts from Cascade High School's choir who performed that morning. If you're out there, I love you too! Penny gave us a tour of Leavenworth the next day... well, actually, later that day and our last hour was spent enjoying a most scrumptious breakfast that was certainly not within the confines of the pageant diet but was well worth the guilt. Ha!

We're almost all caught up here. Over the past weekend, Peggy Miller and I were delighted to be accompanied to Oregon by Miss Washington Teen USA, Mandy Schendel. We met with the pleasantly proper Beth Hjalseth for some etiquette training. Apparently Peggy was sick of me nonchalantly putting my feet up on restaurants' tables and proving my talents at simultaneously chatting and masticating! Haha, I'm entirely pulling your leg. We received a one-on-one seminar on correct and proper professional and dining etiquette that I'm certain will come in handy in the future. We all giggled and squirmed in awkward delight at our newfound talents and know-how and we're anxious for some practice. We need it! Not that we're naturally rude or impolite, it takes talent to get through a meal "Continental Style." Thanks again for your patience and your hospitality, Beth!

I've spent a couple of sessions with my personal trainer from Callaway Fitness and I'm one sore cookie. But you know what they say, "Pain is beauty." Whoever decided that ought to be a rule of thumb, anyway? What a nitwit. Lastly, I returned today from a trip to the Yakima Valley. I was the official "tree-lighter" at the first annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Yakama Legends Casino. As an enrolled tribal member, its always an honor to return home and spend time with fellow members of the Yakama Nation. The evening turned out to be an impromptu autograph and photo session, but I met plenty of starry-eyed young ones and that made my day. Thank you to the staff and patrons of Legends Casino for making this a special event for me.

Well, my tea is gone, the songs are all re-runs, and my tree is really soaking up the wattage on my next electricity bill, so I think, I'll call it quits for tonight. Tomorrow I have an afternoon photo shoot with one of my all-time favorite photogs ever, Mr. Duell Fisher from Team Photogenic. I'm so excited! Time with Duell is always a delight. I hope everybody is getting just as excited as I am for the upcoming holiday. Travel safely out there and my thoughts and prayers are with all of the Washington residents whose lives and comfort have been tremendously interrupted due to the horrendous storms. If I can be of any service or help, don't hesitate to let me know.

Now that the reading's done, feel free to peruse the photos! Some are FAR overdue. Just FYI.

Love & light,

elyse*

Good Morning America, Etiquette Training, & Tree Lighting
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2027212&l=f5856&id=44902634

YW Miami, PLU Game, Pre-Miss America Reality Series, Wenatchee Festival of Trees &
JDRF Gingerbread Village
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2027210&l=83332&id=44902634

Miss America Cruise & YWCA Miami
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2027181&l=400b3&id=44902634

Miss America Cruise!
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2027180&l=ce267&id=44902634

The Awesome Fire Truck, Yakima YWCA, & TACID
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2025107&l=86155&id=44902634

Back to Life, Back to "Reality"

2007-11-17T00:49:00.000-08:00

"Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one."
-- Albert Einstein

Three cheers for being back in Washington! *hip-hip-hoorays ensue*

Instead of making this particular entry a gripe-fest (as it was quickly turning out to be before I held the backspace button for at least thirty seconds to delete all my quirky complaints) about how tired I am, I'd much rather fill you in on the latest.

Basically... I can't tell you anything. Boo, hiss.

However, there are a few things I do know for certain and am allowed to share without risk of violating a gigantic confidentiality clause with the production company. First: I've had a seemingly unending travel schedule of recent and thanks to the Lord and the trusty folks at Alaska Airlines, I made it safely to and fro my destinations - including my luggage! Talk about a blessing. Second: We've wrapped filming the Miss America reality series. While we don't have all the details just yet, we know that the series - which will consist of four one-hour episodes - will air during the month of Janury prior to the Miss America Live! finale on January 26th on TLC! I think the entire pageant family nationwide will be pleased to have an inside glimpse into our Miss America preparation and will thoroughly enjoy the final product. All I can say about production is we laughed... we cried... we ate... a lot. All in all - it was the experience of a lifetime and I'm anxious to scope it out once it reaches TV land.

Third: I'm in Wenatchee! As much as I love the climate in sunny Southern California, it was so heartwarming to arrive in (frigid) Washington only to be whisked away to this beautiful valley and welcomed with holiday cheer! Patti Belik and I attended their first annual Style show and luncheon which was a tremendous success and we were entertained late into the evening at the "Holiday Spice" Concert. What a fabulous way to kick off the holiday season! I'm feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and downright Christmas-y. This just may be the motivation I need to clean up Hurricane Elyse that has managed to hit the inside of my apartment during the short spurts of time I spend at home. I'm so blessed with a patient roommate!

It is late. I am wiped out. If it weren't for the folks one floor above this hotel room, who apparently are fiercely rehearsing for a square dancing competition while wearing tap shoes, I'd probably have been asleep. Its quite obvious that I'd much rather spend my time here conversing with you.

I realize I need to provide some info on the cruise. Specifics will follow (as will photos), but I'll sum it up in a few choice words: Dramamine, Tropical Storm Noel, No Nassau/Atlantis, Stateroom size = Altoid Can, Dazzling Talent Show, Miss America Pageant Family, & humidity. That pretty much covers it. Ha!

Until we meet again,

elyse*

Top Secret

2007-11-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

"With some people solitariness is an escape not from others but from themselves. For they see in the eyes of others only a reflection of themselves."
-- Eric Hoffer

Just a quick note to let y'all know that I made it safe and sound! (I don't know how they do it, but these Southern girls have such sweet and infectious accents!) I'm here in California and we'll be departing the hotel in about an hour. Destination: Unknown.

We had a meeting with Miss America & production staff from PB&J Productions as well as TLC. We left that meeting with just as many questions (if not more) than when we walked in! I know that we're going to have an incredible time though. It sounds like they've got some interesting stuff planned (and I say interesting in the literal sense... not in the sarcastic-questionable sense). I had a wonderful reunion with several of my National Sweetheart Class of 2006 sisters and have met almost everyone who will compete in January. Last night I bunked with Leah Massee, Miss Georgia and we've had a great time - many inside jokes will surely follow.

We'll be handing over our cell phones in a matter of minutes and won't have access to internet while at the facility. Talk about M.I.A. It's all worth it though - tell everyone you know that the fruits of our labor will result in four one-hour reality shows to be broadcast on Friday nights, starting January 4th, 2007 each week up until the two-hour Miss America Live! pageant finale on Saturday, January 26th! woohoo!

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes - they are so appreciated! If, for any emergency reason you need to reach me, please use the appropriate channels through the website to correspond with MWSO Executive Director, Peggy Miller.

Also - ticket and travel orders/questions need to be submitted to MWSO ASAP! (What's with the excessive acronym use, Elyse?) Just a friendly reminder.

I'll be back home in about ten days. Missing you already, Washington!

Coming to a TV near you,

elyse*

The Winds of Change

2007-10-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

"Half the fun of the travel is the esthetic of lostness."
-- Ray Bradbury

It is quite late here out on the high seas and I'm rather tired. I just wanted to check in with my beloved blog-family to let you know how things have been on the Miss America Cruise. As many of you know, Tropical Storm Noel has wreaked some havoc on many travel destinations in the vicinity of the Caribbean. Our original travel plans included a stop in Nassau followed by a day at sea. We were to conclude our trip with a visit to Key West. For our own safety and well-being, the captain had to change our itinerary. Unfortunately we won't make it to Nassau, Bahamas, but instead will be traveling to Cozumel, Mexico tomorrow evening. We were graciously toured around Key West this afternoon and the scenery was simply breathtaking.

I must reach for my nearly-empty bottle of Dramamine and head for my teeny-tiny little bed. I was so silly to think that the staterooms would be spacious. No time for complaining - so we'll just call the living conditions cozy. I've had a wonderful time with my fellow Miss America Class of 2008 contestants. We'll be part of a talent show tomorrow afternoon and we're expecting a big turnout.

Earlier today I said, "I've never worked so hard on a vacation!" The fabulous MAO team of volunteers and coordinators has kept us quite busy. Enjoyably busy. I'm off to sleep - which means I simply need to stand up out of my chair at the desk and take two steps to the left. Who knows, maybe the waves will lull me to sleep... *furrows eyebrows* But I doubt it.

Much love to you all back home. Thank you for keeping Peggy and I in your thoughts and prayers and for your concern over our safety. As soon as I get my sea-legs (and coincidentally, the ability to stare at a computer screen for an extended period of time without experiencing motion sickness), I'll be back with you to report the latest.

Over and out,

elyse*

Up, up, and Away!

2007-10-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

"When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money."
-- Susan Heller

I'm feeling particularly "tech-savvy" at the moment. Sitting at SeaTac International airport, I've managed to arrange my laptop in front of me, my camera peeking out of its case slightly to my left, my cell phone and the laptop's mouse attachment are to my immediate right, and the ever-predictable late-night diet soda is comfortably behind this multitude of machinery.

Peggy and I are about to set sail on the Miss America Cruise. Woo!! But first, we must eventually make it to Miami. I say "eventually," because we seem to have fallen victim to Murphy's Law this evening. No worries though - it appears to have simply been a series of snafus. However, we're preparing to board our flight (that just so happened to be delayed several hours) and things are now going our way! *Insert your own 'Power of Positive Thinking' quip here*

I have a case of late-night sillyness and Peggy and I shared a good laugh. We just realized that we've been working away on our computers for a while and that the operations staff has pushed all the tables and chairs off to the sides. All but ours. I proceeded to sing a brief tune that went a little something like, "The cheese stands alone..."

Nonetheless - I wanted to thank all of the faithful bloggers out there for checking in. Please send us good thoughts and your prayers as we prepare to travel during the week. Updates will follow as soon as something interesting enough occurs. So far, my flat diet soda just doesn't seem newsworthy. So, to tide you over: several new albums! Actually, they're not "new." I've just been holding out. I've always found anticipation to be just delightful!

Stay tuned,

elyse*

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2025104&l=47ab7&id=44902634

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2025106&l=a7838&id=44902634

Picture This

2007-10-16T02:19:00.000-07:00

“It seems positively unnatural to travel without taking a camera along... The very activity of taking pictures is soothing and assuages general feelings of disorientation that are likely to be exacerbated by travel.”
-- Susan Sontaq

Dearest Readers,

Like I said - I'm back in the groove. Here are several albums that correspond with the latest events outlined in the blog. Oh - and if you haven't already scoped it out, the Appearances page is now up and running and is kind of like the abbreviated version of these entries. Except, without commentary. Or clever quips. Or bad jokes. Or photos. So depending on your temperament and interest, that section just may be a much more efficient way to learn of my travels.

May the sale shoes fit and never give you blisters,

elyse*

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2025079&l=db915&id=44902634

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2025081&l=a320b&id=44902634

U.G.L.Y.

2007-10-16T01:55:00.000-07:00

"Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, as well as perspiration. Seeming to do is not doing."
-- Thomas Alva Edison

As I sit here in the car, testing out my bright-shiny-and-new laptop in all of its Dell glory, I just thought to myself: I MUST update the blog. *hangs head in shame* I apologize for the tardiness and I thank you for tuning in to this installment of my “Endeavors.” I appreciate your patience with me and my chaotic and oft times discombobulated schedule. Thanks a bunch!

It’s silly of me to think that I’m going to be able to get everything into this one post – especially without the aid of my day planner. But let’s just see how this goes without using a cheat sheet. Last night, Peggy Miller and I attended a Masquerade Ball hosted by Soroptimist International of Yakima. It was a fundraiser to help benefit the Yakima YWCA Family Crisis Center. It was a night of debonair gentlemen and elegant women dancing to the big band tunes of the Dennis Claus Band with masks on hand (or, rather, on-face) to support the worthy cause. Dennis & I were able to throw a little something together and I had the pleasure of performing at the black tie gala. While everyone was gracious enough as to chuckle at my jokes (while on-stage, I suggested we make this an open mic affair, but few possessed the bravery to try their hand at entertainment “off the cuff”) the highlight of the evening was when I was honored by Jayne Tienken, President of SI Yakima, and named as an Honorary Member of Soroptimist International. I was so touched by the gesture.

You wouldn’t know it unless I told you, but I just sat here – gazing out into space for about three minutes - and I still can’t recall anything worth mentioning. You see, I really am useless without my planner. Yesterday, before departing for Yakima, Peggy and I made a stop at Sparks Stadium to scope out the homecoming festivities and to watch my beloved Lutes from Pacific Lutheran University take on the boys from Menlo College. I was fashionably decked out in my #21 – Miss Washington sweatshirt. Along with Peggy & my Dad, my former cheer coach - Kristen Barton and her husband Mike, and dozens of other unruly EMAL fans (if you're unfamiliar with the term EMAL, please look it up, it's entirely too complicated to explain and you'll only giggle if I tried), we frantically and frequently jumped up and down in the crisp fall air. At one point, I hastily jumped up after my beau (you guessed it - #21) made a fabulous play and Peggy gave me a, "chill out" look. She said she could tell that I missed being down in front of the stands cheering and my reply was, "Just be glad that I'm only jumping on to my feet... my instinct is to toe-touch!"

Alright, I give. I'm turning to my planner. Hold on a sec.

Okie dokie - sorry for the delay. I thought I'd grab a cup of coffee while I was up. Ü Let's start where we left off last time - which was forever-and-a-day ago - and see how far we get as I become increasingly sleepy. On September 16th, I was invited as a special guest to a ribbon cutting event in West Valley, WA. It celebrated the opening of a special area of West Hills Memorial Park and was entitled, Fallen Heroes. It commemorates the lives of those who selflessly serve our country as military servicemen, police officers, firefighters, and emergency service people. It was incredibly moving. The program recognized "Miss Washington" as a special guest. While this was a great honor, I was so humbled and shocked that I would be given that distinction. I was surrounded by decorated service people who have risked their lives fighting for the freedoms and safety we all enjoy. If anything - THESE folks were the special guests and deserve far more recognition than my job as Miss Washington shall ever merit. Dozens of white doves were released at the end of the ceremony and it was a beautiful tribute. Thanks so much to Lorrie Johnson, Charles R. Ross, State Representative, 14th District, Rich Rowland, Commander VFW #379, Chief Dave Leitch, West Valley Fire Dept, Sgt. John Durans, Yakima County Sheriff's Office, Chief Charlie Hines, Ron MacKintosh, Lt. Jim Keightly, Washington State Patrol, Chief Warren Gay, East Valley Fire Dept, Shawn Yaskoe, Vice President - Letum, Inc, Jeffrey L. Callaway, and all of the heroes who attended, were honored, and to those we have yet to honor in such a sacred place.

Later that week, I attended the TACID (Tacoma Area Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities) annual fundraiser Breakfast. I gave the invocation and helped out with their auction. I had the privilege of learning about some of the incredible work this agency does for individuals within Pierce County and couldn't have been more excited to be involved. My sound-engineer-extraordinaire, Kevin Antholt from Gig Harbor, WA, met with me on Wednesday to work on some music for my farewell at the Miss Seattle Pageant on the 22nd. Thursday included a hair appointment, a meeting with a potential sponsor at The Metropolitan Grill in Seattle, and the Miss Seattle dress rehearsal. Thursday was busy and I distinctly remember having an insatiable appetite all day. ha! Funny the things that I'll remember... And speaking of food (as usual), I was invited to attend the Miss Seattle Judges dinner at Joey's on Lake Union. We had a tremendous time discussing my Miss America preparation, funny pageant stories, and Chet Welch's love life. Oh Chet - I'm only joking and you must know I adore you!! (Regardless, I'm certain there will be some frantic voicemails in the ol' in box tomorrow morning for that one!)

The day of the Miss Seattle pageant was a wonderful day! I "warmed up" the judges before they interviewed the nine lovely contestants. I spent the day hurriedly running around like a chicken with my head cut off (hey - nobody said this was a neat 'n tidy glamorous job) preparing for the program. While they should have introduced me as "the girl who you'll now have to hear drone on and on while chuckling at her own jokes," they were much more polite and went with the ever-appropriate, "Your emcee for the evening is...." Woo! My first emcee gig was pretty excellent! I really bonded with that audience - we laughed, I performed, so they subsequently laughed again, and we all applauded the contestants with sincere love and adoration. Congratulations to the newly crowned: Miss Seattle 2008, Allison Rone & Miss Emerald City 2008, Ada Rose Williams! Best wishes to you as you represent your communities, your respective platforms, the MAO, and CMN!

The following day was my Miss Seattle Homecoming and what a day! I tried to keep it together, but when I stood in front of so many supportive and loving friends, relatives, titleholders, and volunteers, I literally wept like a buffoon! Oh well, it happens. I make my best attempt at not being "cliche," but some things just merit tears of joy. My Dad Dynamos (which includes Darrrin, Mr. Seattle) put together the most memorable party on Mercer Island. It was decked out in Black, Gold, Silver, & White and was themed "Afterglow," which is a tribute to my school and my career as a cheerleader. I know it sounds hokey, but after every football game, the players, the cheerleaders, their families, and any fans who want to join are invited to Afterglow. It's literally a time for fellowship and sharing to highlight all of the best parts of the game. Win, lose, or draw - we'll have an Afterglow and we'll celebrate everyones accomplishments. I wanted this day to be something special for everyone in attendance, not just a party about "me." This was to honor everyone's commitment to this program, this state, and the hundreds who make it possible. To all of you who could make it - thank you for attending and for making that such a special day for me. And to those who couldn't be there - I know you were there in spirit (but ya still missed a pretty sweet shindig). My Dad put out all my favorite snacks and treats. I now realize there are plenty other members of the Washington pageant family who share my affinity for gummies. I'm thinking, "Sponsor!!"

The next day, I camped out on Peggy's couch for the Miss America Contestant Lottery. I nabbed slot number 9 from Mu Group. For more information on contestant placement, please feel free to visit: http://onlineselection.missamerica.org/ for all the details! While I realize that still doesn't bring us to the end of September, I think my hand muscles are getting a little tired. When one has to strike the 'backspace' key every third or fourth key-stroke, you know it's time to retire.

So, having said all that - thanks again for waiting and for bothering to come back to my no-man's-land of a blog! Don't worry, the next one won't take so long. I'm totally back in the groove now.

I love you, Washington!

Your girl,

elyse*

P.S. - The title of this blog should be credited to Jayne Tienken, President of SI of Yakima. It reflects a hilarious event she hosted while in the Seattle area many years ago and stands for "Unique - Glamorous - and - Lovable - You!" So the next time you hear some horrific quip that starts with "You're so ugly..." think U.G.L.Y.

P.P.S. - I just can't let this precious opportunity pass. My absolute favorite joke that starts like the aforementioned is from the T.V. show The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, where Will is arguing with a girlfriend who tells him: "You're so ugly, that isn't a fade on your head... that's your hair - running away from your face!" Ahahahahahaha! Now, don't tell me that didn't at least make you titter. Ü Oh man, the voicemails are really gonna pour in tomorrow mornin'...

Touche

2007-09-16T01:16:00.000-07:00

"Good things, when short, are twice as good."
-- Baltasar Gracian

My sister Cheyne is attentively sitting to my immediate right. We are sharing some tasty midnight snacks (of the sugary variety) and she is now peering over my shoulder, proceeding to critique and edit my post. She's 13.

*Chuckle Break*

Cheyne just asked me, "What's Earl?" My eyes dart across the screen as I attempt to figure out what in the world she's talking about. I see the blog-posting button she's referring to and I respond, "Um, that's U-R-L." She looks me square and the face and says in her snotty voice, "Well, what's U-R-L?" ( Now, she's offended and asks, "I have a snotty voice??" )

Now that I re-read that paragraph, I realize its just not as funny in print. One of those "ya had to be there!" moments. Cheyne is the comic relief in my life. In fact, she's the inspiration for the title of this post. She - being the smarty pants that she is - instigated an intellectual argument with me about the proper use of the French word, "Touche." Cheyne has just whispered to me, "I won. Write that down."

Any-hoo, life's been busy! I have so many exciting stories to tell about my most recent adventures! Unfortunately, 12:50 AM is certainly not the time... and sitting next to my biggest critic is not the place. So, to briefly fill you in on the latest and greatest happenings, the following is a quick summary of the last few days: A hair appointment with Jill - bobby pins are my new best friend. I spent time touring the Yakima YWCA's Women's Shelter and the incredible new facility that we're campaigning to raise funds for. This morning I hammed it up at the Sunnyside Sunshine Days Parade - I told all the onlookers that they'd have to give me their best pageant waves and applause in order to get some candy from my official candy throwers (aka my sisters and biggest fan, Macy Clough). It was a cheap thrill. I performed at the festival's carnival early in the afternoon after judging the Miss Sunnyside contestants in the interview phase of competition. After a brief siesta at the Clough residence, I was back at Sunnyside High School to judge the Miss Sunnyside pageant. Congratulations to the new Miss Sunnyside, Antassia Hammond and her Court on a job well done!

I have had a wonderful weekend so far! I have so many more details and memories to share, but as it is getting late - and I am growing sleepier and sleepier - I must retire to bed. Another long day awaits tomorrow. Rest assured that I have dozens of photos to upload and I have every intention of describing in painful detail all of the recent events. I wish I had something clever to close with... but I've got nothing. *sad face*

Sweet dreams!

elyse*

PS: Cheyne has kindly instructed me to change the quote I opened this post with as it no longer applies. I had no clever comebacks... so I stuck my tongue out at her. She responded in the same fashion. Oh, how I love being home with my family!

An Album "Worth" 26,000 Words...

2007-09-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

"If I could tell the story in words, I wouldn't need to lug around a camera."
-- Lewis Hine

To preempt my tardy-er than ever blog entry, I present you with a peace offering: a photo album! Text soon to follow. I Promise. Cross my heart and hope ... well, you know how it goes.

Faithfully,

elyse*

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2023974&l=38313&id=44902634

Assorted Photos from my Nevada Trail Journey

2007-08-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

“The world today doesn't make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?”
-- Pablo Picasso

Here is a collection of pictures that either missed the cut-off or simply didn't make it into the blog - - until now. Hopefully you find them to your liking! If not - take it up with my family... Since I'm in most of the photos, I clearly can't claim credit for the photography. hehe.

Sorry Parents.

elyse*

http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2022833&l=e461f&id=44902634

"I Felt Like a Real-Live Celebrity..."

2007-08-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

"I love deadlines. Especially the whooshing sound they make as they pass by."
-- Douglas Adams

I’m fighting the urge to pick up my newest reading adventure, The Da Vinci Code (yes, I’m far behind the times and started the book only two days ago). But – I have been boldly struck with the stark realization that I haven’t updated my blog recently and the list of those reminding me to do so is growing as long as a country mile. So with coffee in hand as usual, here I am to take care of business! But first an apology: not only for the tardiness of this entry *hangs head* but for my empty and unfulfilled promise that I’d respond with the official Miss America info in a prompt fashion. Are you ready? Is your heart simply brimming with intense anticipation? Has the suspense caused you to toss and turn late into the night? Do you enjoy my ridiculous use of goofy and leading questions to help build the tension? I assume the answer is no (to all of these), because the information is now available via this blog’s mothership – err, I mean.. www.missamerica.org. However, if this is your primary source for “pageant news,” I salute your diligence and am honored to share the following with you. We have a date, location, and network! Woo-Hoo!!

Our new home is on TLC - Miss America is back in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on January 26th! It’s great to know all those details but honestly, I would have settled for just knowing the date. Now that we have something to work backwards from, we can plan my preparation accordingly. There’s the customary shopping, working out, and paperwork business to tend to, but I’m also very interested in staying involved with the YWCA as a volunteer, promoting my platform, and mock interviewing. I believe my exact words to Mrs. Miller were, “Mock interview me to death.” But now that I see that in print, perhaps my words were too strong… Any-hoo, we have lots of work to do and I’m anxious to get to it!

I can’t seriously believe it is the 22nd of August. Where did this entire month go? Yipes! I’m really focused on savoring every moment and experience my year of service has to offer… but it’s increasingly difficult when time insists on flying by! If I can get my brain to switch gears, I’d like to share with you an incredible experience I had up in Bellingham several weeks ago. Evelyn Jefferson, Chairwoman of Lummi Nation, kindly invited me up to a very special event called “Paddle to Lummi – Canoe Journey 2007.” Carol Starcher accompanied me on this trip and we agreed that it was one of the most unique and inspiring appearances either one of us had ever been to. The website for this (www.paddletolummi.com) describes this event by saying, “The Journey seeks to honor the centuries-old custom of transport, harvest and trade by the Coast Salish tribes, many who traveled the waters to meet and gather for festivities. Relationships are strengthened, family ties are renewed, and young and old gather together during this drug and alcohol free event. Our Elders believe that through canoe-pulling, we achieve perfect harmony and balance. This is schelangen, the Lummi way of life.”

Canoes travel from as far as Alaska and for as long as two weeks to take part in this annual event. Very few times in my life have I ever felt such warm hospitality and genuine pride as I did on Lummi’s sacred shores. I was greeted with a hero’s welcome! I told Peggy, “I felt like a real-live celebrity up there!” I think she responded with something to the effect of, “Well… yah.” *giggle* Guess I’m still getting used to the Miss Washington persona. There were times during my tour of the festivities when I was surrounded – and sometimes bombarded – with young and old alike asking for autographs, photos, and simply a handshake. I hugged elders, kissed babies, and was showered with gifts. I came home with nearly a dozen new articles of clothing, the most exciting being my hand-made cedar hat (this sort of artifact is of the kind that are displayed in museums) and my shell and bead medallion. These traditional gifts are very dear to my heart and I will cherish them always. Another significant gift from several members of Lummi Nation was the honor song that was given to me while standing on the shore. The experience was moving beyond words. It was the kind of moment where your skin tingles and your insides are overcome with warmth because the reality of it is so surreal, like a baptism or new awakening. I can’t thank these people enough for their kind words or the loving prayers they sent to me through song.

I was given the opportunity to address the “Treaty Talk” session as well as the general assembly. I spoke briefly about my platform, the program, and how excited I was to represent Native America as the first American Indian to wear the Miss Washington crown. After several hours of mingling and visiting, we retired to the beautiful Silver Reef Casino where Evelyn hosted a grand dinner for Carol, my cousin Paul (who has several ties to Lummi Nation), Paul’s grandmother Bessie, and I at their Steakhouse. Carol and I were expecting BBQ’d meat on a Styrofoam plate and maybe an ear of corn. You know - nothing too fancy, just picnic/comfort food. So you can imagine our surprise when we are brought to a beautifully decorated and dimly-lit eatery and then served cuisine that rivals a seven-course meal! It was spectacular. I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to spend time with so many Native people from so many beautiful coastal tribes. I look forward to participating in other American Indian events during my year and am hopeful that we can collaborate on several projects in the future.

Let’s see now... what else is worth mentioning..? Well, since returning from Orlando I’ve paid a visit to Jill Ogden for a trim, had lunch with my former Miss Seattle director Darrin Emerick and Miss Seattle's Silver Cloud Inn sponsor, engaged in some serious planning with Peggy Miller, and taped an interview with Comcast Local Edition. This is a program that airs daily on CNN Headline News featuring government and community leaders. I had the chance to chat with Stella Thurkill about my time “in office” and my plans for the year. One of my judges, Mr. Buck Dopp, helped put this together for me and I extend to him one more heartfelt thank you!

In the coming days, I have several meetings to attend and about a million emails to send. If there are grammatical or typographical errors in this post, please blame them on the partial numbness I’m experiencing in my phalanges due to excessive emailing. Ah, the glamours of titleholder life. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Until next time,

elyse*

Photos from Paddle to Lummi:
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2023546&l=5cfa1&id=44902634

Hip, Hip, Hooray - We Love You, Genay!

2007-08-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

"They may talk of a comet, or a burning mountain, or some such bagatelle; but to me a modest woman, dressed out in all her finery, is the most tremendous object of the whole creation."
-- Oliver Goldsmith

The Final night of competition at the Miss America's Outstanding Teen Pageant begins in a matter of hours. Please continue to send Genay your best wishes, thoughts, and prayers. I pray that she be filled with joy, contentment, peace, and confidence as she enters that theater tonight. As I sit and type on Allie's laptop in our hotel room, my eyes are brimming with tears. It could be that I've been tremendously busy and entirely exhausted.. but I think I'm simply full of emotion - I'm so excited for Miss Washington's Outstanding Teen!

The last couple of days have been so exciting here in Florida! We saw the final night of preliminary competition, ran into members of the pageant family from far and wide, made treasured new friendships, went to Disneyworld, ate a private dinner at Maggiano's, attended a Gala at the Millenia Art Gallery in honor of MAO and MAOT, had lunch at Planet Hollywood Orlando, and didn't sleep enough. All in all, this week has been Awesome! As much as I've loved my time in Orlando, I'm anxious to head home and leave this humidity behind. It seems I'm in need of some much stronger hair products for my next trip this far south. My wish shall be granted at about o-dark-thirty in the morning. (haha.. that's a clever little turn of phrase I've picked up from Sally Lynch). I miss everyone at home and know your hearts and thoughts are here in Orlando with all of us. As usual, I don't have much time to sit and chat, but wanted to leave you all with another sampling of photos. I've been sitting at this desk for about an hour putting the albums and this blog together but I empathize with everyone back in Washington who wants details. I can tend to be an instant gratification kinda gal myself. I must now commence the beautification process for tonight's show.

Much love to everyone. Pray for a safe trip home for all of us and we'll see you soon! And one last time - just for good measure: Good Luck, Genay! Not that someone as talented, pretty, and sweet as Genay needs luck, but I 'spose a little bit couldn't hurt...

Cheers for now having a Miss America date,

( oh - did I forget to mention that little detail..? We Have a Date and Location!! Woo!! Sorry to titilate, but I must first check with the powers that be that its safe to release the info. Check back soon... aka, tomorrow for the latest! )

elyse*

Photos from Prelims:
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2023238&l=2fb26&id=44902634

Photos from the last few days' events:
http://plu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2023240&l=20d80&id=44902634

What are you going to do next? I'm goin' to Disneyworld!!

2007-08-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

"It would be so nice if something would make sense for a change. "
-- Alice, Alice in Wonderland

Greetings from Orlando! I'm sorry I don't have much time to write. After my speedy-yet-satisfying five hours of sleep last night, I'm rather tired and must resume the beautification process - which has proven to be a daunting and perpetual task. The Miss contestants spent several hours touring a Children's Hospital and we will be leaving for dinner in about an hour. We're going to Maggiano's and I've heard its delightful! Immediately after, we're headed to the Linda Chapin Theatre at the Orange County Convention Center for the final night of preliminary competition.

As I'm in a hurry, I promise to fill in all the blanks in a future blog entry. At the moment, unfortunately, time is a luxury I don't have. I like to leisurely sit and write at my desk... making great and valiant efforts to provide you with witty anecdotes and fun lil' photos. This time - the photos will have to do all the talkin'. Please follow the link below (or copy and paste it into your browswer) to preview a small sampling of the photos we've taken from the week thus far. Again, more will follow when time allows.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2023194&l=2e914&id=44902634

The most important thing here though is to tell you all about Genay - she's doing AMAZING! Alli, Sally, and I are so proud of her. She has her characterisitic sweetness and quick wit and is full of energy despite the gruelling schedule. She simply shines onstage and her personality clearly comes through. She is always quick to laugh and smile and the stories she's been sharing at visitation have us in stitches! Her wardrobe and makeup are simply maaaavelous and her talent was upbeat, engaging, and executed with perfection. We are so proud to see her compete and I, personally, am so grateful that I have had this incredible chance to cheer her on from the audience! Thanks so much to everyone who made this trip possible - - Thanks and thanks again! I can't wait to sit down and share all of my thoughts and memories once I'm back in the Pacific Time Zone.

*Pauses* What's that? Oh, sorry, my makeup brushes are calling me... Must get back to work. Please enjoy the photos and continue to keep Genay in your thoughts and prayers. Feel free to email Alli (allison@misswashington.org) with your best wishes and words of encouragement. We've been sharing all the mail with Genay and she really appreciates your well wishes! Also, we've had nothing but positive feedback from other spectators about Genay and her performance. She is truly doing a tremendous job!

I'll check in as soon as I can. And tomorrow is the BIG DAY! Is it Finals Night, you ask. Of course not - I'm going to Disneyworld. woo-hoo!!! I've never been and I hear we get the VIP treatment. Here I come Magic Kingdom... watch out Mulan - I just may try to put you out of a job.

Warm regards,

elyse*

A Little of This, A Little of That

2007-07-31T00:43:00.000-07:00

"There are two kinds of people, those who do the work and those who take the credit. Try to be in the first group; there is less competition there."
-- Indira Gandhi

I realized - rather abruptly this evening - that a week has now lapsed between my last entry and this one. Right from the get-go, I committed to the idea of completing at least one post a week. So... shame on me. *slaps wrist* Alrighty, with that out of the way, let's just sit back, relax, and let the blogging begin. I am presently at my desk, sipping a delicious cup of black-coffee-with-splenda and urge you to do the same. Not only because it's basically my favorite beverage, but if I have to sit here dealing with the self induced guilt incurred due to late-night coffee splurges and writhing with caffeine induced jitters - you might as well join me. Don't worry, Mom & Dads, I'll graciously accept the scolding that will undoubtedly follow in the morning.

The last week was an exciting assortment of several odds and ends. A few events really aren't worth mentioning... but if you know me well enough to be interested in reading my blog, you know that nothing isn't worth mentioning according to me! For instance - I went to the dentist for my biannual cleaning and had a splendid time. Seriously! While most cringe at the thought of the dentist, I am delighted by it. Oh, come on - we all have our quirky idiosyncrasies... Not to mention, I'd like to warmly and officially welcome Dr. Jerome Lee and the entire staff at Cedar Dental Care to the pageant family as one of the MWSO's newest sponsors!

Tuesday was, by far, the busiest day of the week. I had the pleasure of visiting with our muy fabuloso Executive-Producer, Doris Hayes-Clark right before heading to Burien with Peggy. I like to think of Peggy and I as a team, or rather, a pair. So if I consider myself her sidekick, what, then, should I respectfully call her? Feel free to hit the little "Comment" button below with any suggestions. We spent some time with our Sponsor of the Year and my favorite official shutterbug, Henry Schulz. Now here's where the night gets really exciting. Peggy and I were invited to the 2007 Seattle Seafair Commodores Banquet by our very own JoAnn Ludwig and we had a smashing time! All of the charming Seafair Princesses were introduced, we enjoyed a delectable dinner, and (my personal favorite part of the evening) I was "knighted" by Erin Waid, Miss Seafair 2006. How cool is that?! (For those medieval buffs out there, forgive my terminology if women cannot be "knighted." ) We dined and visited at Salty's on Alki where the Commodores welcomed us to with their characteristically gracious and genuine hospitality. I'm hopeful that future Miss Washingtons will have the opportunity to become involved with the extraordinary Seafair program.

2007 Commodores Executive Committee

With Miss Seafair 2006, Erin Wade - - proudly wearing my official Seafair Star Pin

One tidbit worth noting - Peggy and I commenced an official "happy dance" upon receiving confirmation that the Miss America offices had, in fact, received my paperwork on time. Woo! The entire Pageant Family is far too familiar with paperwork stress, so lets all take part in one big collective sigh of relief. *sigh* The Millers and I had a special treat on Friday night. We had the privilege of celebrating with Genay Tucker, Miss Washington's Outstanding Teen, as well as her directors, Sally Lynch and Allie Lord, and Genay's enchanting mother, Tammy. The special occasion: sending Genay off to Orlando with our best wishes and prayers! To know Genay, is to love her. So I thoroughly encourage you to get to know her. I am entirely confident that she will make us all proud at Miss America's Outstanding Teen. She leaves on Wednesday so please continue to wish her good luck and extend your wholehearted support! Speaking of which, I am consumed with excitement at the thought of traveling to Florida to support her at said national pageant! But this entry is getting lengthy, so I'll save all the ranting and raving for when I'm actually there and have news to report.

Wapato City Councilmen: Lamebull, Roa, and Rodriguez

Lastly, I must mention my haphazard trip to Eastern Washington. It was necessary for me to traverse the Cascades and obtain about fifteen minutes of video footage of my hometown to send to Miss America. Gary & Jay - the Pageant Dad Dynamic Duo - kindly chauffeured me to Wapato and my charming and ever-thoughtful beau, Eric Hargrave, offered to keep me company along the way. Not only did we get catch some really fun stuff on film with my captivating little sisters: Lauren, Cheyne, and Sheli, but I got to visit a local park, met with three members of Wapato's City Council, and even - for lack of anything better to film - challenged Eric to a game of tennis (I played for several years in high school.) Unfortunately - I have apparently lost my knack for the game and we concluded our match post haste. The tastiest part of my day, you ask? After all, no post from Elyse is complete without ample reference to sustenance. The gigantic bag of gummies we all gorged on the entire way to the Yakima Valley. Ah... gummies.. they are, quite possibly, the tastiest treat ever made. *salivates* On that note, I'd say this feels like an appropriate and fitting place to conclude my narrative.

Silly time in the park with my sisters. They're gonna be so mad I posted this... hehee...

Just "hanging out" at the park. I used to want to be a trapeze artist when I was little. Just ask me about my grandmother's chandelier...

Pleasant Dreams!

elyse*

These are a Few of my Favorite Things

2007-07-23T13:55:00.000-07:00

"Work joyfully and peacefully, knowing that right thoughts and right efforts inevitably bring about right results."
-- James Allen

Peggy and I spent Wednesday evening with Henry Schulz and were graciously accompanied by my father-turned-photo-director, Gary. We had it all: false lashes, major backcombing (I've finally accustomed myself to calling it "backcombing" versus "ratting my hair" at the request of every hostess and hairstylist I've worked with thus far.. I'm rather proud), wardrobe changes, even the compulsatory wind-swept look. For those with a pop-culture sense of humor, the "blue steel" pose was unfortunately eighty-sixed. Thursday was quite enjoyable and consisted of phone calls, planning, packing, and lunching with my former Miss Pierce County Director, and one of my favorite people, Kenney Hayes. (To use "lunch" as a verb is just so east-coast-chic, isn't it?)

Friday was one of those jam-packed busy days. But I rather like those. I interviewed with Tony Ventrella on his radio show - which can be found by turning your dials to KLAY 1180AM on Friday mornings. We spoke about my platform and plans for continued involvement with the YWCA, the MWSO, and about Former Miss WA's. His kind words and fond memories of my predecessors reminds me just how blessed I am to be a part of this program. I set off for Eastern Washington with Mike & Peggy Miller - - Starbucks in hand. Upon arriving in Yakima, we met with Yakima Herald-Republic reporter Adriana Janovich. I'm so grateful for the community support from the media outlets in and around my hometown. With their help, I plan to thoroughly promote this organization throughout Central and Eastern Washington in the hopes that other young girls, particularly those of color, are inspired to participate and gain all there is to gain from becoming part of our beloved pageant family. My family and the Millers obligingly agreed to let me pick our dinner restaurant. The Golden Wheel, my favorite Chinese restaurant in the world (and I've been to China, mind you) was my establishment of choice. An Almond Chicken induced euphoria ensued. As did embarrassing stories, lots of rejoinders, and the "best laugh" I've had in a long time.

Saturday was another incredibly busy and exciting day that concluded with a big finish. The Millers and I were generously given a tour of the YWCA Yakima by Finance Director, Trudie Lakey and her granddaughter, 6-year-old Alexis . Reporters from three local news stations came by and I was interviewed on a myriad of topics. We discussed my platform, pageants, and I was thoroughly surprised to be asked about my relationship status. My response was something to the effect of, "Sorry to disappoint..." One highlight of my day was a visit with my most-favorite woman on the planet: My Grandmother, and inspiration, Viola. We didn't have much time to converse, but managed a quick chat, hugs, and prayers. I challenged her to a rousing game of cribbage on my next visit home. Oh, how I love and cherish her. We then set off towards the Tri-Cities and made a couple of stops along the way. My favorite hole-in-the-wall (those are always the best) Mexican restaurant is in Sunnyside - El Conquistador sure prepares a mean chicken enchilada. *mouth waters*

We made a special trip to Fashion Corner - also in Sunnyside - which really should consider changing its name to Diamond in the Rough Boutique. The staff was not only bubbly, friendly, and sweet; but they agreed to sponsor two of my outfits for for the MAO Teen Pageant in Orlando. Thank You, Irene & Fashion Corner - I will proudly wear your beautiful items and frequently sing your praise! Anyone in need of the perfect gown, party dress, pair of shoes, or pageant-style suit please call me - I'll promptly provide you with Irene's contact info. As my first official pageant appearance as Miss Washington, I had the privilege of meeting the twelve magnificent young women vying for the 2007 Miss Tri-Cities title before the show. They were beautiful, vivacious, and dazzling. Dot & Bob Stewart sure know how to put on a good show! It is my pleasure to welcome *trumpets sound* Kristin Cox as the first contestant to join the Miss Washington class of 2008! Congrats on your stellar performance (she did some seriously fancy saxophone fingerwork) and best of luck as you dutifully serve your community in the coming year!

After a quick stop at Chukar Cherries, a delicious little shop in Prosser, we made it to Wapato for the 10:30 church service at my home-base, Church on the Rock. My favorite Sunday-morning comedian, Pastor Jeff Yellow Owl, welcomed me home and we followed the service with a tasty breakfast at Old Town Station. Like I said at Miss Tri Cities, I fear the Millers are going to be inundated with frantic emails: put Miss Washington on a diet! haha.. probably not a bad idea. Ü

That's all for this lengthy yet thorough installment of my endeavors. Stay tuned for future updates!

Much love,

elyse*

Business as Usual & Busy as Ever

2007-07-18T01:39:00.000-07:00

"A bee is never as busy as it seems; it's just that it can't buzz any slower."
- - Kin Hubbard

To those of you who have anxiously been awaiting my second installment, I urge you two things: first - pat yourselves on the back for such loyal and steadfast patience (it's appreciated!), and second - consider taking up a hobby... the musings I have here are likely not worth such fervent anticipation. (A little self deprecation never hurt anybody, right?)

With that said - let's get down to the latest "buzz!" I do believe that there is a time and date stamp to these blog messages, so I must preempt my brief *scoffs* note by apologizing to my platoon of parents for the late hour. Worry not - I simply do my best work at night. Late at night. So much has happened since we last corresponded that I hardly know where to begin. In that case, let's go back... way, way back to when it all began... aka - a week ago Sunday. Ü Two radio interviews and one delicious breakfast later, I was off to retreat to my home. To my dismay, the messes I'd left upon leaving for pageant week were still there and had not managed to clean themselves up as I had instructed. Funny how that happens. At this point, it is necessary to extend another very warm thank you to all of my sister contestants for their tremendous gifts! They were exceptionally heartfelt and incredibly thoughtful. I've lovingly enjoyed glancing through them on a daily basis - this is quite easy because not only do they still entirely cover my dining room table, but they've managed to start trickling onto the floor. Except the edible ones - those things were gone (and tremendously relished) in the blink of an eye.

Last Monday, I was accompanied to an in-studio radio interview with KOMO 1000 in Seattle by our esteemed Assistant-Producer, Sarahlynn Aanderud. Mid-week was fairly low-key for me, except for the oodles of time I spent on the telephone. I know what you're thinking: Elyse - - Chatty?! Get out of here! Ha. Actually, I did several newspaper interviews and of course had the obligatory nightly chat with my Pageant Dads and biggest fans, Gary and Jay. On speakerphone, of course. Doris Hayes-Clark, the other half of our exceptional Production team, accompanied me to a midday Rotary meeting with Rotary #8 of Tacoma on Thursday. We were greeted by friendly Rotarians, a delectable lunch spread, and warm felicitations. Much thanks to the lovely Kristen Eddings for arranging this appearance!

Steve Smith & I after the Rotary meeting

My hair appointment was thoroughly enjoyable and my time with Jill from Angelo Mendi's Salon in Tacoma was well spent. I'm now a back-combing machine! And for those who were crossing their fingers for the culturally appropriate, yet insanely awkward, Samurai pony-tail - I'm sorry to disappoint. On Saturday, Peggy and I made the trek down to Wilsonville, OR to have my "colors done" by the delightful Barb Wilson. It was genuinely an eye-opening experience. To be told what your most complimentary colors and patterns are sounds like something on the verge of ridiculous, but I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to consider it. Barb doesn't tell you what (and what not) to wear, rather she gives you new perspective on how to make educated decisions regarding clothing styles and colors. We simply had a blast. Sunday was devoted to hair and makeup. Literally. We spent an absurd amount of time at the MAC counter and I walked away a much more makeup-savvy young woman. As a self-taught makeup "apply-er," I had no idea I was so out of the loop.

Barb Wilson & I

I had the pleasure of spending Monday morning of this week with Sarahlynn again. Not only is she a fabulous traveling companion, but she graciously assumed the role of my personal photog! We were out in Gig Harbor at Gateway Fitness celebrating the opening of the New Tacoma Narrows bridge. We did a quick interview with 710 KIRO and chattered with the Secretary of Transportation as well as several on-air radio and television personalities. The highlight of the morning, though, was my stop into the child care center at Gateway Fitness. I was greeted by at least two dozen smiling little faces. All of whom wanted my signature on their respective fragments of construction paper. Ah, the simple joys in life.

Eating TOLLhouse cookies in front of the new TOLLbooths... clever..

Visiting Gateway Fitness's Childcare Center I made several new friends and exuberantly high-fived.

After some intense eyebrow scrutinization earlier today (by three separate beauty-industry trained professionals, mind you) Peggy and I returned from South Center with plans to meet up midday tomorrow. It's headshot time! My brows are groomed, my eye-makeup smoky, my wardrobe is packed, and I think I just may be ready for my closeup, Mr. Schulz.

G'night!

elyse*

The Fantastic Voyage - - and We're Off...!

2007-07-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step."
-- Lao-Tzu

Greetings and welcome to my Blog! *laughs out loud* I simply must pause here because I just caught an unsightly error: I inadvertently wrote "welcome to my blob," and that is just not the mood I want to set for my very first entry! Oh goodness. It's going to be a fun year - I can tell.

Before I endlessly blab on and on - err... provide thoughtful detailed account - about this whirlwind first week, some very warm and heartfelt thank yous are in order. First and foremost, my brand-shiny-and-new Executive Director, Peggy Miller! Thank you for your kindness, your commitment, and your sincere dedication. I am so honored and proud to be your very first Miss Washington! To know you, is to love you; and I'm so excited to have the privilege of getting to know you even better! Also, my family. I could say thank you 'till I'm blue in the face and I still wouldn't have been able to adequately express how much I love and appreciate you, your time, and all you've done and do for me. So, spare me a blue face and accept all my gratitude from the bottom of my heart. My family has been my rock, my entertainment, my cheering section, and my safe haven. As far as pageants are concerned, if I am the star - you are the heavens. Hugs are soon to follow.

I can't forget to recognize my fellow Sister Contestants. Can you believe it ladies? We made it through pageant week unscathed! woo-hoo! I apologize to those who will elicit a cringe response (because I'm certain that reaction will follow), but there's just something about spending a week cooped up in a hotel that binds us together with an unbreakable bond. Perhaps it's the endless swapping of battle scars and war-stories... body glue mishaps, significant other woes and complaints, wardrobe malfunctions, the obligatory director anecdote, and, of course, sheer goofiness. Without sounding like a sappy Hallmark card, you beautiful young women have inspired me, entertained me, and shared something very precious with me. Three cheers for the Miss Washington Class of 2007! (Recall, we did in fact have a "hip-hip-hooray" session during the week.) Again - hugs are sure to follow. To Heather Laible, Miss Greater Vancouver, no set of roommates was ever matched together more perfectly. I have a special place in my heart for you. And to Allison, Miss Emerald City - hopefully you remain my partner in crime. Pageant week, as a pair, was entirely enjoyable. You taught us all a little something about grace.

My esteemed Director Darrin - I truly have no words. And this is only because we're on the phone so often that I think we've covered it all! Ha! Oh, I'm teasing. You are the best director any girl could ever ask for. I am so blessed to have had the chance to work with you and am pleased to consider you my fourth Dad! And last - but certainly not least in any way, shape, or form - the volunteers! State and local volunteers make pageant world go 'round. I am indebted to your graciousness and your hard work. Without you, there are no local titleholders and conversely, there is no Miss Washington. Without you - I'm out of a job! Even so, I'm grateful for you and all of your tireless efforts. At a minimum, I am committed to having the best year humanly possible as a tribute and a thank you for all you do - - I'll do my best to make you proud!

It seems that I've managed to fill this space with very little record of what my week has actually been like. Hmm.. how'd that happen? Let me preempt this year of service with one little cautionary message. While I have the absolute best of intentions, my "little notes" frequently err on the lengthy side. So I urge all of you, who haven't recently done so, to seek out an eye doctor of your choice to have your vision examined. If you didn't have "bad eyes" before this post, it is likely you do now because what was supposed to be brief turned itself into an epic novel. Those of you who already know me and my "longish" writing style, knew to expect this. More on the week will follow shortly. I'm off to an important appointment this afternoon... a Haircut! I suggested a Samurai-style shave and pony-tail.. but Peggy objected. Three inches it is.

Cheers to a fabulous year, my first entry, and the Nevada Trail. (I'm going to tentatively call my journey to Miss America the Nevada Trail. I liken it to the Oregon trail not in the sense that I hope to tragically lose loved ones in wagon wheel accidents along the way, but we - as a family- have got our eyes on the prize.) We're headed out for the unknown, and the journey alone is going to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Love & Blessings,

elyse*

Media Reports

2007-01-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

http://www.ywca.org/site/apps/nl/content2.asp?c=djISI6PIKpG&b=281407&ct=4258309\

http://www.pageant.com/washington/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WM63VH9giKM

http://pageantcastnews.blogspot.com/2007/07/miss-washington-great-role-model.html

http://www.buckdopp.com/mytwocents.html

http://www.yakima-herald.com/page/dis/290082632844565?print=1

http://www.tbnweekly.com/pubs/clearwater_citizen/content_articles/081407_cit-01.txt?archiveview&print

http://www.wapato-city.org/

http://www.siofyakima.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=27&Itemid=37

http://www.umatilla.nsn.us/24%20august%2007%20cuj.pdf

http://www.spokesmanreview.com/features/story.asp?ID=212088

http://public.fotki.com/seattlekckckc/miss-washington-2007/

http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096415500

http://kollectif.wordpress.com/2007/12/07/seattle-local-architecture-firms-design-dynamic-gingerbread-structures-for-a-changing-city/

http://www.kndu.com/global/story.asp?s=6783464

http://wdwnews.com/viewimage.aspx?imageid=107698&siteid=1

Appearances

2007-01-01T11:14:00.000-08:00

JULY 2007

Sunday, 8th
Radio Interview on KVI 570
Radio Interview on KOMO 1000
Paperwork over Breakfast with the Millers, my Family, & my Local Director

Monday, 9th
In-Studio Interview with KOMO 1000
Phone Interview with Yakima Herald-Republic with Ross Courtney

Tuesday, 10th
Phone Interview with Lower Valley Publications with Wendy Johns

Wednesday, 11th
Phone Interview with Yakama Nation Review

Thursday, 12th
Tacoma Rotary #8 Lunch Meeting

Friday, 13th
Hair appointment with Jill @ Angelo Mendi Salon & Boutique

Saturday, 14th
Color Consultation Trip to Wilsonville, OR to meet with Barb Wilson, Image Consultant

Sunday, 15th
MAC appointment
Paperwork Session with Peggy

Monday, 16th
Narrows Bridge Opening and Radio Interview with KOMO 1000

Tuesday, 17th
Shopping trip to Southcenter

Wednesday, 18th
Photo Shoot with Henry Schulz

Thursday, 19th
Lunch meeting with Kenney Hayes, MPC Executive Director

Friday, 20th
Telephone Interview with Tony Ventrella on KLAY 1180
Photos & Interview at Yakima Herald-Republic with Adrianna Janovich
Travel to Yakima with the Millers

Saturday, 21st
Tour of YWCA Yakima
Television interview at YWCA Yakima with KAPP
Television interview at YWCA Yakima with KNDO
Television interview at YWCA Yakima with KIMA
Meeting with *new* Sponsor Irene @ Fashion Corner in Sunnyside
Miss Tri-Cities Pageant & Awards Banquet

Sunday, 22nd
Travel back to Tacoma (after stopping at Chukar Cherries in Prosser, of course)

Tuesday, 24th
Conference call with Doris Hayes-Clark
Photo Shoot with Henry Schulz
Seattle SeaFair Commodores Banquet at Salty’s on Alki

Thursday, 26th
Paperwork session with Peggy Miller

Friday, 27th
Genay Tucker's (Miss WA’s Outstanding Teen) Dinner & Send Off

Sunday, 29th
Travel to Wapato to shoot “Hometown Video” for Miss America

Tuesday, 31st
Paddle to Lummi, Canoe Journey 2007 in Bellingham
Dinner with Evelyn Johnson, Chair of Lummi Nation

AUGUST 2007

Wednesday, 1st
Alterations at FitRite

Thursday, 2nd
Head home to Eastern Washington for three whole days of downtime!

Monday, 6th
Fly out of SeaTac to Orlando, FL with Sally Lynch for Miss America's Outstanding Teen Pageant

Tuesday, 7th
YWCA Tampa Bay Tours: YWCA/USF Family Village, Hispanic Outreach Center, Emergency & Transitional Housing Facility
MAOT Preliminary Night One

Wednesday, 8th
MAOT Preliminary Night Two

Thursday, 9th
CMN/Dairy Queen Miracle Treat Day - Tour Orlando Regional's Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children & Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies with Miss America 2008 Contestants
Dinner sponsored by Maggiano's with Miss America 2008 Contestants
MAOT Preliminary Night Three

Friday, 10th
DisneyWorld visit with Miss America 2008 Contestants
MAOT Gala at Millenia Fine Art Gallery with 2008 Miss Contestants

Saturday, 11th
Lunch sponsored by Planet Hollywood at Downtown Disney
MAOT Final Competition

Sunday, 12th
Depart from Orlando, FL back to Seattle, WA (on a plane that was frustratingly delayed)

Tuesday, 14th
Hair appointment with Jill

Wednesday, 15th
Lunch with my local director, Darrin Emerick & a generous Miss Seattle Sponsor, Silver Cloud Inn
Meeting at Mercer Island Community Center

Thursday, 16th
In Studio Filming: Comcast Local Edition

Monday, 20th
Meeting with *new* Sponsor, Dr. Jerome Lee of Cedar Dental Care

Thursday, 23rd
Lunch meeting with Peggy Miller & Doris Hayes-Clark

Tuesday, 28th
Hair appointment with Jill
Shopping trip to Portland, OR

Wednesday, 29th
Head to Dee's Studio in Gresham, OR
Shopping and lunch downtown with Barb Wilson

Thursday, 30th
Meeting with YWCA Seattle

SEPTEMBER 2007

Saturday, 1st
Work on Volunteer gifts at Peggy's
Head to Eastern Washington for a Homecoming weekend!
Miss Wapato Pageant Judge & Performer at my alma mater, Wapato High School

Sunday, 2nd
Return to Tacoma for Volunteer Appreciation BBQ and briefly crash the MWSO Executive Board Meeting

Monday, 3rd
Return to Wapato for the Harvest Festival Parade & Carnival Autograph Signing

Tuesday, 4th
Alterations at FitRite
Wardrobe Shopping Excursion in Auburn

Thursday, 6th
Alterations (yes, more) at FitRite

Friday, 7th
Talent Rehearsal with Doris Hayes-Clark and Kenney Hayes

Saturday, 8th
Miller Wedding!

Monday, 10th
Miss Pierce County Board Meeting

Tuesday, 11th
Photo shoot with Henry Schulz

Wednesday, 12th
Nutrition Consultation with Suzan Zeiger
Belle Square shopping trip and dinner with the Dads

Thursday, 13th
Hair appointment with Jill

Friday, 14th
YWCA Yakima Domestic Violence Shelter and new facility tour

Saturday, 15th
Sunshine Days Parade, Sunnyside WA
Perform in the park for Sunshine Days Festival
Miss Sunnyside Pageant Judge

Sunday, 16th
Guest Performer for Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - Fallen Heroes Garden, West Valley, WA

Monday, 17th
Meeting with Elizabeth Farley, Executive Director of YWCA of Yakima

Tuesday, 18th
TACID "Imagine" Breakfast
MAC appointment

Wednesday, 19th
Appointment with sound engineer, Kevin Antholt

Thursday, 20th
Hair appointment with Jill
Lunch with Trusteed Plans Service Corp. in Seattle
Miss Seattle Dress Rehearsal

Friday, 21st
Miss Seattle Judges Dinner at Joey's on Lake Union

Saturday, 22nd
Miss Seattle Pageant Interviews - Warm up the Judges
Miss Seattle Pageant emcee, performer, & my Miss Seattle 2007 Farewell

Sunday, 23rd
Miss Seattle Homecoming in Mercer Island, WA

Monday, 24th
Miss America Contestant On-line Lottery

Saturday, 29th
UPS Circle of Honor

OCTOBER 2007

Tuesday, 2nd
YWCA Spokane Domestic Violence Awareness Vigil

Wednesday, 3rd
Lunch hosted by YWCA Spokane
YWCA Spokane Tour - Administrative Offices, Domestic Violence Shelter

Thursday, 4th
Health/Physical Education Classes (x6) at Elma High School, Elma, WA

Friday, 5th
Filming PB&J Segment for Miss America with Videographer at Peggy Miller's
Gene & Arlene Wright's 50th Wedding Anniversary

Monday, 8th
Road trip to Dee's Studio in Gresham, OR

Tuesday, 9th
Administrative tasks with Peggy Miller (including updating this page) (hehee)

Wednesday, 10th
Alterations at FitRite

Friday, 12th
Meeting with *new* sponsor, Callaway Fitness
Hair appointment with Jill

Saturday, 13th
Soroptimist International of Yakima Masquerade Ball

Wednesday, 17th
Talent Rehearsal with Executive Producer, Doris Hayes-Clark

Friday, 19th
Meeting with *new* sponsor, Callaway Fitness
Leave with the Millers for Yakima, WA

Saturday, 20th
MWSO Fall Forum - Day 1
Tamale Festival, Wapato, WA

Sunday, 21st
MWSO Fall Forum - Day 2
Return with the Millers to Tacoma

Saturday, 27th
National Anthem - Pacific Lutheran University Football vs. Lewis & Clark
Depart for Miami with Peggy Miller

Monday, 29th
Board "Majesty of the Seas" and set sail on the Miss America Cruise

Tuesday, 30th
3-Hour Rehearsal with Contestants, Miss America, & MAOTeen
Tour Key West with Miss America Contestants
Lunch at Alice's of Key West
Photo Shoot with Contestants & Miss America

Wednesday, 31st
Afternoon Talent Show!
Free time in Cozumel, Mexico

NOVEMBER 2007

Thursday, 1st
Day at Sea
MAO Halloween Party

Friday, 2nd
Return to Miami, FL
Visit YWCA Greater Miami

Saturday, 3rd
Return to Washington

Sunday, 4th
Leave for Los Angeles, CA for Miss America Reality Series taping

Monday, 5th
Check out of hotel, leave for Top Secret filming location
---> We're here filming till the 14th, so no updates till then.. stay tuned!

Wednesday, 14th
Return from Southern California - So glad to be back home!

Thursday, 15th
Depart for Wenatchee with Patti Belik for annual Festival of Trees

Friday, 16th
Holiday Luncheon & Style Show
"Holiday Spice" Concert at the 'PAC' (Performing Arts Center of Wenatchee)
Radio Interview with 560 KPQ AM

Saturday, 17th
Gala Dinner & Auction

Sunday, 18th
Return to Tacoma

Monday, 19th
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Gingerbread Village, Seattle Sheraton

Tuesday, 20th - 24th
Thanksgiving Break!

Sunday, 25th
Performance - Harbor Christian Church, Gig Harbor, WA

Monday, 26th
Meeting with Tom Neuman with Puyallup's Liberty Theater
Shopping Trip to Seattle
Administrative tasks with Peggy Miller

Tuesday, 27th
Alterations with Luda

Wednesday, 28th
Meeting with our newest sponsor, Callaway Fitness
Leave with Patti Belik for Leavenworth, WA

Thursday, 29th
Appear on Good Morning America, live from Leavenworth, WA

Friday, 30th
Session with Kevin Schneider of Callaway Fitness

DECEMBER 2007

Saturday, 1st
Etiquette Training in Salem, OR with Beth Hjalseth

Sunday, 2nd
Meeting with *new sponsor* Cynthia Laffler of Cynthia's Jewelry Box
Travel home with Peggy Miller and Mandy Schendel, Miss Washington Teen USA

Tuesday, 4th
Session with Kevin Schneider of Callaway Fitness

Wednesday, 5th
Legends Casino Christmas Tree Lighting, Yakima, WA

Friday, 7th
Photo Shoot with *new sponsor* Duell Fisher & Michael Naiman of Team Photogenic

Sunday, 9th
Pageant Family Christmas Open House

Monday, 10th
Talent Rehearsal, Liberty Theater, Puyallup, WA

Tuesday, 11th
Interview with Amy Clancy on KIRO 7 Television

Thursday, 13th
Alterations with Luda of Fit Rite

Friday, 14th
Session with Kevin Schneider of Callaway Fitness
Voice Lesson with Brad Barker of GBM Music

Sunday, 16th
Meeting with *new sponsor* Cynthia Laffler of Cynthia's Jewelry Box

Monday, 17th
Mock Interviews in Seattle

Tuesday, 18th
Session with Kevin Schneider
Mock Interviews in Seattle

Wednesday, 19th
Visit to Sherman Elementary

Thursday, 20th
Alterations with Luda
National Anthem at Pacific Lutheran University

Saturday, 22nd
Voice Lesson with Brad Barker

Sunday, 23rd - Wednesday, 26th
A wonderfully appreciated Christmas Break!

Thursday, 27th
Mock Interviews in Seattle

Friday, 28th
Session with Kevin Schneider
Fitting with Luda
Savi Day Spa in Tacoma

JANUARY 2008

Tuesday, 1st
Happy New Year!!

Thursday, 3rd
Mock Interview in Seattle
Radio Interview with Thane & Tom on 92.9, The Bull

Friday, 4th
Radio Interviews:
KUSA - with Dorothy & Brian
KXDD - with Dewey & Charlie
KARY - with RJ & Lou
KHHK - with Blaze

Saturday, 5th
Shopping Extravaganza with Peggy Miller

Sunday, 6th
Mock Interview with Miss Washington volunteers & former titleholders
Meeting with Fianna Dickson for Wardrobe Preview & Script

Tuesday, 8th
Hair Appointment with Jill Ogden at Angelo Mendi
Training with Kevin Schneider

Wednesday, 9th
Training with Kevin Schneider
Mock Interviews in Seattle
Phone Interview with Indian Country Today

Thursday, 10th
Flight to Yakima, WA

Friday, 11th
New Miss America Talent Song due to MAO
Northwest Today television interview on KNDU
Brunch with Dot Stewart and Teresa Lavender
Filming and Photo Session for Yakama Nation

Saturday, 12th
Flight to Seattle cancelled from Yakima, Dads come to the rescue and drive me back!

Sunday, 13th
Miss Washington Fashion Show & Miss America Send-Off with special appearances by UW Quarterback Jake Locker, and Receivers D'Andre Goodwin and Charles Hawkins, Jr.
(Go Dawgs)

Monday, 14th
Training with Kevin Schneider
Northwest Afternoon televisison interview with KOMO 4

Tuesday, 15th
Hair appointment with Jill Ogden from Angelo Mendi

Wednesday, 16th
Leave for Las Vegas - Here we come, Miss America Pageant!! wahoo!

Thursday, 17th
Arrival Ceremony at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Kickoff Meeting and Dinner with MAO Staff

Friday, 18th
Production Rehearsals
Gondola Ride at The Venetian and Photos at The Palazzo

Saturday, 19th
Production Rehearsals
VIP Reception at Koi

Sunday, 20th
Production Rehearsals
Appearance & Autograph Signing at Fashion Show Mall
Dazzled & Entertained at "Stomp"

Monday, 21st
Production Rehearsals
Miss America Interview

Tuesday, 22nd
Production Rehearsals
Preliminary Competition, Night 1

Wednesday, 23rd
Production Rehearsals,
Preliminary Competition, Night 2

Thursday, 24th
Production Rehearsals
Red Carpet at Rambo Premeire
Preliminary Competition, Night 3

Friday, 25th
Production Rehearsals
Planet Hollywood VIP Reception
Children's Miracle Network Black Tie Gala

Saturday, 26th
Production Rehearsals
Miss America Live!

Sunday, 27th
Pack up & Head home (after our flight was delayed. wouldn't you know it?)

FEBRUARY 2008

Saturday, 2nd
Miss Grays Harbor Judges Dinner & Pageant

Sunday, 3rd
Travel home to Tacoma from Aberdeen, WA

Monday, 4th
Radio Interview with Les & Rebecca on KINK
Emcee Mock Primary at WSU Vancouver

Tuesday, 5th
Radio Interview on KMPS
National Anthem at Pacific Lutheran University

Thursday, 7th
Meeting with Peggy Miller & Erin Riffe

Sunday, 10th
Miss Poulsbo Tea

Tuesday, 12th
Visit VA Puget Sound HCS American Lake

Thursday, 14th
Deliver Valentines to veterans at VA Puget Sound HCS Seattle

Friday, 15th
Flight to Spokane
Miss Moses Lake Dress Rehearsal

Saturday, 16th
Emcee Miss Moses Lake Pageant

Sunday, 17th
Miss Spokane Pageant

Monday, 18th
Travel home to Tacoma with the Millers

Tuesday, 19th
American Legend Fur Auction in Renton, WA

Wednesday, 20th
Serve breakfast & Interview at Chief Seattle Club

Saturday, 23rd
Miss Mason County Judges Dinner & Pageant

Monday, 25th
Co-Emcee Miss Whatcom County Silent Auction

Wednesday, 27th
Business Lunch with Annie Malone of Tacoma Women's Fitness & Day Spa

Thursday, 28th
Flight to Michigan for Miss America's Homecoming, "Dreams Do Come True"

MARCH 2008

Saturday, 1st
Flight to Seattle
Miss Pierce County Pageant

Monday, 3rd
Wapato Welcome Home Assemblies
Wapato Middle School
Wapato High School

Friday, 7th
Radio Interviews
Thane & Tom, Yakima's 92.9
Kendall Weaver, Yakima's 88.5
Lakewood Rotary Meeting
Hand out Dictionaries with Rotarians
Impromptu Lakewood Boys & Girls Club Tour

Saturday, 8th
Miss Lewis County Pageant

Sunday, 9th
Miss Yakima County Pageant

Thursday, 13th
Puyallup Kiwanis
Pierce County Juvenile Court Diversity Talk

Saturday, 15th
Miss Whatcom County Pageant

Monday, 17th
"Indian Life" Interview

Tuesday, 18th
Production Meeting

Thursday, 20th
University of Washington GEAR UP Career Fair at YVCC, Grandview, WA

Wednesday, 26th
Character Trait Assembly, Firgove Elementary, Puyallup, WA
Item House Fitting

Thursday, 27th
"Hero" Presentation in Leavenworth, WA

Saturday, 29th
Miss Poulsbo/Miss Kitsap Pageant

Monday, 31st
Meeting with YWCA Pierce County

APRIL 2008

Tuesday, 1st
Washington State Indian Education Association Luncheon, Keynote Speaker

Thursday, 3rd
Seattle Indian Health Board - Youth Leadership Workshop, Guest Speaker

Friday, 4th - Sunday, 6th
Miss Clark County Pageant, Emcee

Monday, 14th
Visit YWCA Maricopa County, Phoenix, AZ

Saturday, 19th
Miss Washington's Outstanding Teen Forum, Speaker

Sunday, 20th
Miss Washington Sweeper Pageant, Emcee

Monday, 21st
YWCA Yakima Annual Luncheon, Guest Speaker

Tuesday, 22nd
YWCA Pierce County Dinner with Board and Keynote Speaker, Naomi Tutu

Wednesday, 23rd
City of Seattle, Administrative Professionals Day, Guest Speaker
YWCA Pierce County Annual Luncheon, Guest Speaker

Monday, 28th
Spanaway Lake High School, YWCA Project Empower & Employ Recruiting

Tuesday, 29th
Clover Park High School, YWCA PE&E Recruiting

MAY 2008

Thursday, 1st
Bethel High School, YWCA PE&E: 13 Classroom Visits

Friday, 2nd
Graham-Kapowsin High School, YWCA PE&E Recruiting
Cole Schubert's Birthday Party!

Saturday, 3rd
YWCA Pierce County's Project Empower & Employ

Monday, 5th
Central Washington University, President's Address on Diversity, Guest Speaker

Saturday, 10th
Celebrate my Birthday. Woo!

Sunday, 11th - Monday, 12th
National American Indian Housing Council, Guest Speaker

Tuesday, 13th
American Legend, Guest

Wednesday, 14th
Grandview Rotary Meeting, Guest Speaker
Toppenish, WA Johnson O'Malley Senior Banquet - Guest Speaker
White Swan, WA Johnson O'Malley Senior Banquet - Keynote Speaker

Thursday, 15th
Toppenish Middle School, Guest Speaker
Legends Casino, Guest

Friday, 16th
Grandview Middle School, Guest Speaker
Granger High School, Guest Speaker

Monday, 19th
Washington High School, Guest Speaker
Keithley Middle School, Guest Speaker
Bethel Family Night, Keynote Speaker

Tuesday, 20th
Photo Shoot with Team Photogenic

Wednesday, 21st
Harrah Elementary School

Thursday, 22nd
Peninsula High School

Friday, 23rd - Sunday 25th
Miss Washington Spring Forum

Sunday 25th - Monday 26th
Miss Washington's Outstanding Teen Pageant, Emcee