The first of many lasts

One week from today I will be crowning the next Miss Missouri on the stage at the Missouri Military Academy. In addition to this post, I have also already made my final appearance, my last trip to Mexico, my last airbrush tan, final visit to Cache for wardrobe, and the list goes on and on as I begin to finish out this amazing journey. It is definitely very bittersweet as I look back on the extraordinary year I have had full of once in a lifetime opportunities, however I am thrilled to begin embarking on the next chapter in my life and achieving those life-long dreams that I have been talking about so much throughout the year. There are so many people that have been instrumental in making this year so successful and I am so grateful for all of the people who have come into my life over the last few years.

While I get ready to enjoy these next seven days, I will fill you in on some of my latest adventures. I was lucky enough to be able to spend the day at Fort Leonard Wood for their Safety Day Fair, promoting good health and injury prevention on base. After a tour of the entire base by Chris Billadeau, I had the opportunity to speak to the troops and thank them for their service to our country each day.  These men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice by fighting for our freedom, thank you for all that you do!

Then Chris and I headed over to the field house for the fair. While there I met with General Quantock and his wife, where I learned more about life as a military family and some of their personal experiences.  We then headed over for lunch at Tony’s where we had conversations about the Miss America Organization and other topics. After lunch we went back to the fair and then I was invited to take part in their gun simulator. Wow, what an experience! It definitely opened my eyes and gave me an insight into what they do. Thank you to Chris Billadeau for hosting my visit and to all our military troops at home and abroad for their dedication and service.

I left Fort Leonard Wood and headed to Jefferson City. I was so excited to be in Jefferson City because one of my favorite miracles lives there and I had the chance to meet up with her twice while I was there! I know I’ve mentioned Margaret Romph several times in this blog, so I won’t go into details, but if you don’t know who she is, you should check out her video here! She is definitely and inspiration for me and so full of life. After meeting up with Margaret and her family I headed out to Jamestown where I gave the commencement address. What a neat opportunity! It was amazing being able to relate to these students and inspire them on their journey.

Then I went to Mountain Grove, MO where I judged the Miss Tri-Counties Fair Pageant. When we first arrived we were treated to a scrumptious dinner at Club 60. While we were there in walked Miss Missouri’s Outstanding Teen, Alexandria Black! I had no idea she would be here judging alongside of me! Then it was off to the pageant. I was invited to sing the National Anthem, which was a first for me, and it went well! The pageant was exciting and entertaining! Congratulations to all of the newest titleholders and good luck at the State Fair Pageant!

Yesterday, I had my final appearance before heading to Mexico for pageant week at The River City Rascals Game where I threw out the first pitch! This was my second time to do this and the weather cooperated much better this time, although we traded the rain for the heat and humidity. It was so fun to be surrounded by friends and family to finish out and celebrate a great year!

I’m already here in Mexico and can’t wait for the contestants to arrive tomorrow morning and then begin the week with the Miss Missouri Golf Tournament! Be sure to stay updated during the week by visiting the Miss Missouri Website, the Miss Missouri Facebook Page, and following ErikaMissMO on twitter!

With much love,

Erika