Finally Updating...

Ok, I am really trying to catch up, so thanks for the patience...I had the extreme pleasure of competing at Mrs. Illinois America this year in July and once again had the best time. Ladies, if you've ever wanted a great weekend of dressing up and getting to know new friends from all over your state, this is an opportunity of a lifetime! So I am posting a couple shots from the photographer, and a shot of Mr. Aceto (one of the directors) setting up. Just a little information on that: Mr. Aceto designed and made that stage himself over 25 years ago and they have used it every year since, minus one due to venue issues. It's a part of the Mrs. Illinois Tradition. You'll see a group shot at lunch the first day (some people missing since they were getting ready for interviews), the whole group at the pageant ball held after preliminary competition, a picture of Eric and I...which, please don't laugh since his eyes are closed, but I have to include it because my hubby is HOT in a tux! Then top 5 (I placed 2nd runner up this year), and then Mr. Aceto hard at work.

And now a word of thanks...

First, to God from Whom "every good and perfect gift" is from (James 1:17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.) Thank you Lord for allowing me the gift to be there, the blessing of time with these women, and the chance to share You through all things from encouraging words to spraying fannies...yes folks, God works ALL things together for good!

To Eric, for being my love, my best friend, for allowing me and affording me the chance to be a part of something great like this. For encouraging me to do my best and have fun in pageantry, making me feel like I am the most beautiful woman in the world, and giving me the best and most important title I will ever have...Mrs. Meidel...thank you, thank you. There really are not enough words to express my deep gratitude for you, Sweetheart. I don't deserve you.

To my parents for taking the massive trek up again to be there for me. Mom, thank you for the awesome work you did on the costume...just like always, you rock the sewing machine like nobody I know! Thanks Dad, for the "fabric runs" you made while we worked on the costume. You're so patient! Thank you both for taking me to the auditorium finals night...just like "old times", I remember being at Hemmens 14 years ago. Of course, then it was pantyhose runs for Dad, and costume making again for Mom...I feel a tear coming on...thank you for saying you're proud of me.

To Megan, for being my angel from heaven, for being my number one cheering section, whom has always believed in me, and has always had nothing but positive things to say regardless of the outcome. Her friendship stems far beyond pageantry, but she has always been the first to jump in and say "Go for it!" She is one of those people that makes you feel gorgeous while at your very worst (and Lord knows she has seen it). Thank you with all my heart for making me feel so special, and being the awesome friend you are.

To Julie, my "chosen sister". She is the epitome of a queen...she has grace, style, class, and a genuine warmth that invites you in...I said that three years ago in a news article writtten about her win as Mrs. Illinois America, and I believe and fully stand by that statement to this day. She is proof that "little girl's dreams" still come true even when we're only a little girl at heart anymore. Thank you for kicking my fanny when I needed it, for listening and talking for hours on end, for doing the endless things you did up to and during pageant weekend to make me feel like a queen, and for being the reason why I have returned to Mrs. Illinois America time and again. And really, just thank you for you. The enduring, sweet friendship I have in you is more precious to me than I could ever fit into words. I am forever grateful to have met you through pageantry and to be your "VQ".

To Dee, whom has stood the test of time physically, emotionally and spiritually. She still looks like the regal Mrs. Illinois she was (if not better) after...hhhmmm...how many years? ;) Thank you for all you do for the pageant, for all the ladies involved, and the gift of you. Your friendship is priceless, and you still exude that queenly quality that still makes one think there's a crown on your head. It's the crown in your heart that shines so bright.

Rena, my forever sister queen, my Miss USA, my constant pageant support whom is beyond beautiful both inside and out. Thank you for the flowers and encouragement, and thank you for your continued encouragement to "Go! Wear the crown, Be the crown, You ARE the crown!"(HAHAHA)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mj4MWZIY5Q&feature=related (please ignore Mr. Shatner's 4-letter oopsie)

Holly, for your help and our work together, the phone calls and balloons, your "Sparkle", and your 100 ways to be better...I think you have 1,000! ;)

There's many more...my sisters, ladies in small group, my friends who span the US (Jeana and Lori...love you!)...all the prayers and loving words and thoughts, but then I think no one would read this anymore because it would go on forever.

Really, thank you for everything to everyone. You have all been Best friends, Reality checks, and Angels on earth to me...essentially, thank you for being my BRA....my support. I love you all! Cross my heart!!! HA(Sorry, I couldn't help that).

PS - Lisa, the Queen, leaves for Mrs. America in a few days. Please keep her in prayer as she prepares...that she may have a safe, enjoyable, memorable time. Pray for her family as well as they will be without Mommy and Wife for a week. Blessings!